Animation distribution device, animation distribution method, and recording medium

Abstract

A service is provided that facilitates two-way communication between a publisher who publishes animation content during live broadcast and his or her viewers, and that makes the animation content more exciting. The animation publishing device (30) involved in the embodiment comprises: a first acquisition unit (321) that acquires real-time animation data supplied from a publisher terminal (10); a second acquisition unit (322) that acquires input information including information about a communication image selected by an operation of the publisher terminal (10); and a publishing unit (38) that publishes animation data for publication including data about the communication image and the real-time animation data to a viewer terminal (20) and a publisher terminal (10).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an animation distribution device, an animation distribution method and a recording medium. Background Art

[0002] In recent years, the environment has evolved to make it easy for individuals to publish animated content, allowing viewers to choose from a wide variety of content. When publishers publish animated content in real time (live), viewers can, for example, leave comments, allowing for communication between the publisher and the viewer. The publisher can respond accordingly to the viewer's reactions, and viewers can enjoy the immersive feeling of live streaming.

[0003] Patent document 1 proposes the following technical solution, that is, using a method other than comments to communicate between the publisher and the audience. For example, Patent document 1 discloses the following technology, that is, the audience drops an object (virtual item) into the virtual space. For example, in Patent document 1, the server has: a publishing unit, which publishes the data of the virtual space where the object operated by the publisher terminal exists to the audience terminal and the publisher terminal; and an acceptance unit, which accepts the input of the virtual item dropped into the virtual space from the publisher terminal and / or the audience terminal, the publishing unit publishes the data of the virtual item controlled by the virtual item control unit together with the data of the virtual space, and about the performance when the virtual item dropped has the shape of text, it is recorded that "the interesting thing is that the text itself falls from above." (For example, paragraph

[0110] of Patent document 1)

[0004] The following is also stated: "There may be an upper limit to the number of virtual items that can be invested in a single program broadcast. Furthermore, even after the upper limit of virtual items have been invested, additional virtual items that can be invested may be replenished upon the passage of a certain time or upon satisfaction of a specific condition." (For example, paragraph

[0094] of Patent Document 1)

[0005] The following is also stated: "The user management unit 2g also records information such as the history of virtual items introduced into the virtual space for each live content and the types of the items." (For example, paragraph

[0029] of Patent Document 1)

[0006] Furthermore, as an example of controlling virtual items, it is described that investment in virtual items can be prohibited (for example, paragraph

[0095] of Patent Document 1).

[0007] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2020-17244 Summary of the Invention

[0008] As a method for facilitating communication between viewers and publishers, for example, "emoticon" services have been investigated. Emoticons, for example, involve inserting images expressing the viewer's emotions and intentions into the content display screen through text, color, or other means, thereby facilitating communication between viewers and publishers. For example, while watching animated content, viewers can select an image expressing their own intentions and emotions from a selection of emoticons displayed in an area surrounding the content display screen. This emoticon image can then be inserted into the content display screen, allowing them to communicate with the publisher.

[0009] On the other hand, publishers need to communicate with a large number of viewers and listeners, and they desire a communication method that can effectively convey the publisher's feelings and intentions to a large number of viewers and listeners.

[0010] The present invention is proposed in view of the above situation, and its purpose is to provide an animation publishing device, an animation publishing method and a recording medium, which provide a service that facilitates two-way communication between the publisher of animation content and their viewers during live broadcast and makes the animation content more exciting.

[0011] The animation publishing device involved in the first embodiment of the present invention comprises: a first acquisition unit, which acquires real-time animation data supplied from a publisher terminal; a second acquisition unit, which acquires input information including information of a communication image selected through operation of the publisher terminal; and a publishing unit, which publishes publishing animation data including data of the communication image and the real-time animation data to the viewer terminal and the publisher terminal.

[0012] The animation publishing device involved in the second embodiment of the present invention is based on the animation publishing device involved in the first embodiment, and further includes: a third acquisition unit, which acquires input information including information of the second communication image selected through the operation of the viewer terminal; and a generation unit, which generates action information displayed in a manner of interactively performing actions by causing the communication image and the second communication image to perform prescribed actions according to physical laws on the display screen, and the animation data for publishing includes data of the second communication image and the action information.

[0013] The animation publishing device involved in the third embodiment of the present invention is based on the animation publishing device involved in the first embodiment, and further has a generating unit including a recharge amount management unit. The recharge amount management unit allocates a recharge amount for each publisher operating the publisher terminal for the real-time animation data published to the viewer terminal. When the recharge amount consumed for displaying the communication image is less than the current value of the recharge amount allocated to the publisher, the recharge amount allocated to the publisher is consumed to generate display information for displaying the communication image, and the animation data for publication also includes the display information.

[0014] The animation publishing device involved in the fourth embodiment of the present invention is based on the animation publishing device involved in the third embodiment. The input information includes the time length of operating the publisher terminal or the information of the pressure on the screen when operating the publisher terminal, and the identification information of the selected communication image. The recharge amount management unit consumes a numerical value corresponding to the information of the time length or the pressure from the recharge amount to generate the display information including the information of the time length or the pressure. The generation unit changes the movement or size of the communication image according to the time length or the pressure.

[0015] The animation publishing device involved in the fifth embodiment of the present invention is based on the animation publishing device involved in the first embodiment, wherein the input information includes identification information of the selected communication image, and the animation data for publishing includes action information for performing an action corresponding to the identification information when the communication image is displayed on the viewer terminal.

[0016] The animation publishing device according to the sixth aspect of the present invention is based on the animation publishing device according to the third aspect, wherein the recharge amount management unit manages the input history of the communication image based on the input information during the period from the start to the end of the publishing of the real-time animation data.

[0017] The animation publishing method involved in the seventh embodiment of the present invention includes the following steps: a first acquisition step of acquiring real-time animation data supplied from a publisher terminal; a second acquisition step of acquiring input information including information of a communication image selected through operation of the publisher terminal; and a publishing step of publishing animation data for publishing including data of the communication image and the real-time animation data to the viewer terminal and the publisher terminal.

[0018] The recording medium that can be read by a computer involved in the eighth embodiment of the present invention records an animation publishing program, which enables the computer to execute the following functions: a first acquisition function for acquiring real-time animation data supplied from a publisher terminal; a second acquisition function for acquiring input information including information of a communication image selected through operation of the publisher terminal; a generation function for generating animation data for publication using the data of the communication image and the real-time animation data that perform prescribed actions on a display screen; and a publishing function for publishing the animation data for publication including the animation data for publication to the viewer terminal and the publisher terminal using the data of the communication image and the real-time animation data.

[0019] Effects of the Invention

[0020] According to the present invention, a video distribution device, a video distribution method, and a recording medium can be provided, which facilitate two-way communication between a publisher who distributes video content live and its viewers, and provide a service that arouses enthusiasm for video content. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0021] Figure 1 This is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a moving image content distribution system including a moving image distribution device according to an embodiment.

[0022] Figure 2 This is a block diagram schematically showing a configuration example of a moving image delivery device according to one embodiment.

[0023] Figure 3 This is a diagram schematically showing a display example of a viewer's terminal of content delivered in real time.

[0024] Figure 4 This is a diagram schematically showing a portion of a display example on a viewer's terminal of content delivered in real time.

[0025] Figure 5 This is a diagram schematically showing a portion of a display example on a viewer's terminal of content delivered in real time.

[0026] Figure 6 This is a diagram schematically showing a portion of a display example on a viewer's terminal of content delivered in real time.

[0027] Figure 7 This is a diagram schematically showing a portion of a display example on a viewer's terminal of content delivered in real time.

[0028] Figure 8 This is a diagram schematically showing a portion of a display example on a viewer's terminal of content delivered in real time.

[0029] Figure 9 This is a diagram schematically showing examples of emoticon images and broadcaster emoticon images displayed on a portion of a display screen of a viewer terminal.

[0030] Figure 10 This is a diagram schematically showing a display example of an emoticon image and a broadcaster emoticon image displayed on a portion of a display screen of a viewer terminal.

[0031] Figure 11 This is a diagram schematically showing a display example of a broadcaster's expression image displayed on a portion of a display screen of a viewer's terminal.

[0032] Figure 12 This is a diagram schematically showing a display example of a broadcaster's expression image displayed on a portion of a display screen of a viewer's terminal.

[0033] Figure 13 This is a diagram schematically showing another display example of content delivered in real time on a viewer's terminal.

[0034] Figure 14 This is a flowchart for explaining an example of a moving image distribution method of a moving image distribution device according to one embodiment.

[0035] Figure 15 This is a diagram for explaining an example of the operation of the publisher terminal when inserting an emoticon image into content distributed in real time.

[0036] Figure 16 Yes Figure 15 FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a portion of a display example of a viewer terminal.

[0037] Figure 17 This is a diagram showing an example of the relationship between the emoticons for broadcasters that a publisher can invest and the amount of recharge consumed. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0038] Hereinafter, a moving image content distribution system, a moving image distribution method, and a recording medium according to an embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0039] Figure 1 This is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a moving image content distribution system including a moving image distribution device according to an embodiment.

[0040] The animation distribution system includes a publisher terminal 10 and an animation distribution device 30. The animation distribution device 30 can be connected to the publisher terminal 10 and the viewer terminal 20 in a communicable manner via a network. Figure 1 In FIG, three viewer terminals 20 are shown; however, the number of viewer terminals 20 is not limited to the number shown in the figure, and may be zero.

[0041] The publisher terminal 10 may be, for example, an electronic device such as a computer that can be connected to an image source such as a camera, a television receiver (including Internet TV), a PC (Personal Computer), a mobile terminal (such as a tablet, smartphone, laptop, feature phone, portable game console, digital music player, e-book reader, etc.), a VR (Virtual Reality) terminal, an AR (Augmented Reality) terminal, etc., but is not limited thereto. The publisher terminal 10 may include, for example, at least one processor and a storage unit that stores programs executed by the processor, and may be configured to implement various functions through software or a combination of software and hardware.

[0042] The publisher terminal 10 transmits content data such as video data for real-time distribution to the video distribution device 30. The content data may include identification information of the publisher (broadcaster) or the publisher terminal 10.

[0043] The viewer terminal 20 is an electronic device such as a computer, for example, it can be a TV receiver (including Internet TV), a PC (Personal Computer), a mobile terminal (such as a tablet computer, a smart phone, a laptop computer, a feature phone, a portable game console, a digital music player, an e-book reader, etc.), a VR (Virtual Reality) terminal, an AR (Augmented Reality) terminal, etc., but is not limited to these.

[0044] The viewer terminal 20 includes, for example, at least one processor and a memory for recording programs executed by the processor, and is configured to realize various functions through software or a combination of software and hardware.

[0045] The viewer terminal 20 can receive content data such as video data and real-time video list data from the video distribution device 30 and present the content to the viewer using a display unit, an audio unit, etc. (not shown).

[0046] Figure 2 This is a block diagram schematically showing an example configuration of a moving image distribution apparatus according to the first embodiment. The moving image distribution apparatus 30 includes a receiving unit 32 including a first acquiring unit 321 , a second acquiring unit 322 , and a third acquiring unit 323 , a generating unit 34 , a distributing unit 38 , and a distribution control unit 35 .

[0047] The animation distribution device 20 may include, for example, a processor that executes a program that implements the functions of the aforementioned structure, and a memory that stores the program. Typically, the processor is a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and / or a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), but may also be a microcomputer, an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), or a DSP (Digital Signal Processor). Furthermore, the memory temporarily stores the program executed by the processor and data used by the processor, in order to enable the operation of the animation distribution device.

[0048] The animation distribution device 30 may also include a communication unit capable of connecting to a network and a large-capacity data storage unit (not shown) for storing data. The data storage unit may be internal to the animation distribution device 30 or external to the animation distribution device 30. The data storage unit may include, for example, a non-volatile storage medium such as an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) or an SSD (Solid State Drive).

[0049] The receiving unit 32 can communicate with the publisher terminal 10 and the viewer terminal 20 via a network and may include a first acquisition unit 321, a second acquisition unit 322, and a third acquisition unit 323. For example, the receiving unit 32 receives animation data from the publisher terminal 10 or a distribution request from the viewer terminal 20. The receiving unit 32 transmits the distribution request received from the viewer terminal 20 to the distribution control unit 35 and the generating unit 34. The distribution request from the viewer terminal 20 may include identification information of the viewer or the viewer terminal 20, as well as identification information of the animation content.

[0050] The first acquisition unit 321 can receive real-time animation data sequentially transmitted from the publisher terminal 10 via the network. Specifically, the first acquisition unit 321 receives animation data for real-time distribution from the publisher terminal 10. The first acquisition unit 321 transmits the received animation data to the generation unit 34.

[0051] The second acquisition unit 322 acquires input information supplied from the publisher terminal 10. The input information from the publisher terminal 10 may include, for example, a request from the viewer terminal 20 to collectively remove all emoticons EM included in live animation content, a request to prohibit the inclusion of emoticons EM, a request to adjust the transparency of included emoticons EM, a request to adjust the duration of the included emoticons EM on the display screen of the viewer terminal 20, a request to include emoticons EM that perform predetermined actions and broadcaster emoticons EMA on the display screen of the viewer terminal 20, and a request to remove emoticons EM included from the viewer terminal 20. The second acquisition unit 322 supplies the input information from the publisher terminal 10 to the generation unit 34.

[0052] The third acquisition unit 323 can receive input information related to the animation content from the viewer terminal 20. Specifically, the input information received by the third acquisition unit 323 from the viewer terminal 20 may include identification information of the viewed animation content, comments entered by the viewer, information related to the emoticon image (second communication image) EM displayed on the content display screen (such as identification information), and information about the viewer's operation on the viewer terminal 20 (such as the duration of the operation and the pressure applied during the operation). The third acquisition unit 323 transmits the received input information to the generation unit 34.

[0053] Furthermore, EMA (broadcaster emoticons) are images that express the publisher's emotions and intentions through text, color, and other means. These images are added to the content display screen based on the publisher's operation, facilitating communication between viewers and the publisher. EMA (broadcaster emoticons) cannot be selected on the viewer's terminal 20, but can only be selected on the publisher's terminal 10.

[0054] In addition, emoticon images EM are common communication images for viewers and publishers. They are images used to express the emotions and intentions of viewers and publishers through text, colors, etc., and are put into the content display screen based on the operations of viewers and publishers, making communication between viewers and publishers easier.

[0055] The distribution control unit 35 controls the real-time distribution of image data. The distribution control unit 35 receives a distribution request from the viewer terminal 20 from the receiving unit 32 and controls the distribution unit 38 to distribute the image data to the viewer terminal 20. The distribution control unit 35 may include, for example, a clock (not shown), and can compare time information obtained from the clock with the time frame allocated for the real-time distribution of image data to manage the start and end of the real-time distribution of image data. Furthermore, the distribution control unit 35 manages the start and end of real-time distribution by starting the distribution of animation content in real time upon receiving the distribution animation data and ending the distribution of the animation content upon the end of the distribution animation data.

[0056] The generator 34 includes a charge amount management unit 36. The charge amount management unit 36 ​​receives a distribution request from the viewer terminal 20 from the receiver 32 and receives input information from the viewer terminal 20 from the third acquisition unit 323. Furthermore, the charge amount management unit 36 ​​can receive input information and content data from the publisher terminal 10 from the second acquisition unit 322.

[0057] The recharge amount management unit 36 ​​identifies the publisher or publisher terminal 10 based on, for example, identification information included in the content data received from the publisher terminal 10 (or based on the login information of the publisher terminal 10), and allocates a recharge amount to the publisher (or publisher terminal 10) for the distributed video content. Furthermore, the recharge amount management unit 36 ​​identifies the viewer or viewer terminal 20 based on the received distribution request, and allocates a recharge amount to each viewer (or each viewer terminal 20) for the video content distributed in real time.

[0058] Furthermore, when managing the charge amount for each publisher or each viewer, the charge amount management unit 36 ​​can utilize pre-registered publisher and viewer identification information (user name, password, membership level, etc.) to manage the charge amount. The publisher and viewer identification information can be stored in the storage unit of the animation distribution device 30 or managed by a server external to the animation distribution device 30.

[0059] The maximum recharge amount allocated to each publisher and viewer can vary depending on the publisher's or viewer's membership level. For example, the recharge amount management unit 36 ​​manages the recharge amount for premium members, whose rank is higher than that of ordinary members, so that the maximum recharge amount is greater than that of ordinary members. Furthermore, the maximum recharge amount allocated to publishers can be different from the maximum recharge amount allocated to viewers.

[0060] The charge amount management unit 36 ​​manages the charge amount consumed by the emoticon images EM and the broadcaster emoticon images EMA input from the publisher terminal 10 based on the content data and input information from the publisher terminal 10. For example, with respect to animated content published by the publisher, the charge amount management unit 36 ​​consumes the charge amount corresponding to the emoticon images EM and the broadcaster emoticon images EMA input from the charge amount assigned to the publisher.

[0061] Furthermore, the charge amount management unit 36 ​​manages the charge amount consumed by the expression image EM inserted from the viewer terminal 20 based on the distribution request and input information from the viewer terminal 20. For example, for each animated content viewed by the viewer, the charge amount management unit 36 ​​consumes the charge amount corresponding to the expression image EM inserted from the charge amount allocated to each viewer.

[0062] Furthermore, the recharge amount consumed by inserting the facial expression image EM and the broadcaster's facial expression image EMA into the animation content may be the same or different. If the recharge amount consumed by the facial expression image EM and the broadcaster's facial expression image EMA is different, for example, identification information of the facial expression image EM and the broadcaster's facial expression image EMA is associated with the recharge amount consumed and stored in the storage unit.

[0063] Furthermore, the recharge amount management unit 36 ​​increases the recharge amount as time passes, such that the recharge amount is restored from zero to the maximum value after a predetermined period of time. Alternatively, as an alternative method for restoring the recharge amount, the recharge amount management unit EM need not restore the recharge amount from zero to the maximum value. For example, the recharge amount management unit EM may temporarily stop restoring the recharge amount when the recharge amount is restored to a value less than the maximum value. Furthermore, even during the recharge amount restoration, if the consumption of the emoticon image EM (or the emoticon image for broadcaster EMA) exceeds the limit, viewers and publishers can still add the emoticon image EM (or the emoticon image for broadcaster EMA) to the animation content.

[0064] For each content being distributed in real time, if the current value of the charge amount allocated to each viewer is greater than or equal to the value corresponding to the selected emoticon image EM, the charge amount management unit 36 ​​consumes the charge amount allocated to each viewer and generates display information displaying the emoticon image EM. Furthermore, for each content distributed by a publisher, if the current value of the charge amount allocated to the publisher is greater than or equal to the value corresponding to the selected emoticon image EM and the broadcaster emoticon image EMA, the charge amount management unit 36 ​​consumes the charge amount allocated to the publisher and generates display information displaying the emoticon image EMA.

[0065] For each content distributed in real time, if the current value of the charge amount allocated to each viewer is less than the value corresponding to the emoticon image EM to be invested by the viewer, the charge amount management unit 36 ​​generates, for example, a display message indicating that the charge amount is insufficient, causing the viewer terminal 20 to display. Furthermore, for each animated content distributed by the publisher, if the current value of the charge amount allocated to the publisher is less than the value corresponding to the emoticon image EM to be invested by the publisher and the emoticon image EMA for the broadcaster, the charge amount management unit 36 ​​generates, for example, a display message indicating that the charge amount is insufficient, causing the publisher terminal 10 to display.

[0066] Furthermore, the recharge amount management unit 36 ​​can manage the history of emoticons EM and broadcaster emoticons EMA invested in each piece of animated content from the start of its release to its completion, based on input information from the publisher terminal 10 and the viewer terminal 20. For example, the recharge amount management unit 36 ​​can count the number of investments made to each emoticon EM and each broadcaster emoticon EMA for each piece of content released, display a graph showing the number of investments in descending order of the largest number of investments, and generate display information for displaying the emoticons EM and broadcaster emoticons EMA corresponding to the nearest neighbor on the graph as indicators. The management of the history of emoticons EM and broadcaster emoticons EMA invested in animated content will be described later with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0067] The generating unit 34 receives the real-time moving image data from the first acquiring unit 321 , receives the publisher's input information from the second acquiring unit 322 , and receives the viewer's input information from the third acquiring unit 323 .

[0068] The generator 34 can generate the animation data for distribution by superimposing, for example, comments and facial expressions EM based on input information input from the viewer terminal 20, and the broadcaster's facial expressions EMA input from the publisher terminal 10, on the real-time animation data. The generator 34 can synthesize the comments, facial expressions EM, and broadcaster's facial expressions EMA with the real-time animation data using known methods such as alpha blending and picture-in-picture. Furthermore, the generator 34 can generate the animation data for distribution containing the comments, facial expressions EM, and broadcaster's facial expressions EMA so that they can be synthesized with the real-time animation data using the viewer terminal 20.

[0069] When receiving information requesting the collective erasure of the emoticon images EM from the publisher terminal 10 as input information, the generator 34 can generate the delivery image data by, for example, blowing away the emoticon images EM inserted into the corresponding animation content with wind or blowing them off the display screen by exploding a bomb.

[0070] Furthermore, the generator 34 may generate motion information to be displayed so that the broadcaster's facial expression image EMA avoids the facial expression image EM injected from the viewer's terminal 20, thereby controlling the motion of the broadcaster's facial expression image EMA so that the viewer's visual confirmation is improved. Alternatively, the generator 34 may generate motion information to be displayed so that the broadcaster's facial expression image EMA avoids the facial expression image EM injected from the viewer's terminal 20, based on an instruction signal from the publisher's terminal 10. The facial expression image EM and the motion information of the broadcaster's facial expression image EMA will be described in detail later.

[0071] In addition, when information requesting prohibition of insertion of an expression image EM is received as input information from the publisher terminal 10, for example, an image or text indicating prohibition of insertion of an expression image EM may be displayed at at least a portion of the animation content so that the viewer can recognize it, or an image or text indicating temporary prohibition of insertion may be displayed in response to the viewer's operation to insert an expression image EM, or image data for publication may be generated in such a manner that the viewer cannot select an expression image EM in the second area 110 (or the fourth area 210) (inactive state).

[0072] In addition, when receiving information requesting adjustment of the transparency of the inputted facial expression image EM as input information from the publisher terminal 10, the generator 34 can, for example, adjust the transparency (transmittance) of the facial expression image EM when it is displayed on the display screen of the viewer terminal 20 to the requested value and display it.

[0073] In addition, when receiving information requesting adjustment of the retention time of the injected emoticon image EM on the display screen of the viewer terminal 20 as input information from the publisher terminal 10, the generation unit 34 can, for example, adjust the retention time of the requested emoticon image EM on the display screen of the viewer terminal 20 so that it remains on the display screen for a shorter or longer time.

[0074] In addition, when receiving information requesting the removal of the inserted emoticon images EM as input information from the publisher terminal 10, the generation unit 34 can generate the image data for publication by randomly removing some of the emoticon images EM inserted into the animation content, or by shortening the time from when the inserted emoticon images EM are displayed on the display screen of the viewer terminal 20 until they disappear.

[0075] For example, the generator 34 may resize a portion or all of the screen of the real-time animation data playback image, resize a portion of the screen, and synthesize it with the input information. Alternatively, the generator 34 may synthesize it with the evaluation information in a manner that exposes a portion of the screen of the real-time animation data playback image and hides the remaining portion. Furthermore, the generator 34 may generate multiple distribution animation data sets with different displayed images, so that multiple distribution animation data sets can be switched and distributed in response to distribution requests from viewer terminals, and transmit the generated data sets to the distribution unit 38.

[0076] Furthermore, when the emoticon image EM and the broadcaster emoticon image EMA are displayed on the viewer terminal 20 and the publisher terminal 10 based on the display information generated by the recharge amount management unit 36, the generation unit 34 can generate action information that causes the image to perform a predetermined action on the display screen, depending on the type of the emoticon image EM and the broadcaster emoticon image EMA (e.g., distinguishable by identification information), as described later. The generation unit 34 can transmit the distribution animation data including the generated action information to the distribution unit 38.

[0077] Furthermore, the distributed animation data, comment display data, expression images EM, and broadcaster expression images EMA can be synthesized and displayed on the viewer terminal 20 and the publisher terminal 10 using motion information, etc. The real-time animation data, comment display data, expression images EM, and broadcaster expression images EMA included in the distribution animation data can be synthesized in advance by the generator 34 and then distributed to the viewer terminal from the distribution unit 38.

[0078] In addition, the generating unit 34 can configure a transparent obstacle (or set it as an obstacle) on the display screen that cannot be visually confirmed by the viewer and the publisher, and guide the expression image EM and the broadcaster's expression image EMA to the outside of the screen and the surrounding area in a manner that does not hinder the viewing of the animation content.

[0079] Furthermore, the generator 34 can control the transparency of the emoticon EM and the emoticon EMA projected by the broadcaster, or can project a non-opaque emoticon EM and the emoticon EMA onto the display screen in response to an instruction from the publisher (broadcaster), thereby enabling the viewer to visually recognize the content image that should be behind the emoticon EM and the emoticon EMA. Alternatively, the generator 34 can arrange a transparent barrier on the display screen that is invisible to the viewer and publisher, thereby directing the emoticon EM (or the emoticon EM and the emoticon EMA) to the outside or surrounding area of ​​the screen without obstructing the viewing of the animated content. In this case, a broadcaster's emoticon EMA, which is actually transparent and cannot be visually recognized, can be inserted into the display screen. In addition to guiding the emoticon image EM (or the emoticon image EM and other broadcaster's emoticon images EMA) around the screen, the display control of each object on the display screen can be performed by creating an effect that causes the emoticon image EM (or the emoticon image EM and other broadcaster's emoticon images EMA) to move around the screen through physical effects such as collisions, as if the transparent broadcaster's emoticon EMA were inserted. This control can make viewers who are accustomed to the non-transparent, visually recognized broadcaster's emoticon images EMA feel as if the object is a transparent image (the emoticon image EM and the broadcaster's emoticon images EMA) on the screen, thereby enhancing the entertainment experience.

[0080] The distribution unit 38 is connected to the network in a communicative manner, receives the distribution animation data from the generation unit 34, and distributes it to the viewer terminal 20 that has received the distribution request. The distribution unit 38 controls the distribution destination of the distribution animation data, etc., using the distribution control unit 35. In addition, the distribution unit 38 can distribute the distribution animation data to the publisher terminal 10 that distributes the animation content under the control of the distribution control unit 35.

[0081] The delivery unit 38 may immediately discard the delivered animation data, but may buffer the data for a predetermined period of time in order to enable replay or slow-motion playback, for example.

[0082] Next, an example of the operation of the moving image distribution device 30 will be specifically described with reference to an example of a display screen of moving image content on the viewer terminal 20 .

[0083] Figure 3 This figure schematically shows an example of a display on a viewer terminal of content delivered in real time. Here, an example of content display is shown when the viewer terminal 20 is a personal computer.

[0084] exist Figure 3 In the display example, a first area 100 including a portion displaying animation content and a second area 110 for presenting a list of emoticon images EM and broadcaster emoticon images EMA to the viewer are displayed side by side on the computer screen.

[0085] The first area 100 includes a portion for displaying video content, a portion for displaying operation buttons, a time bar, and the like, and an input field for viewers to input comments.

[0086] Various expression images EM are incorporated into animated content. Here, an example of multiple types of expression images EM is shown. These expression images EM can perform actions such as falling from the top of the screen to the bottom, growing from the bottom, entering the screen, rolling in from either the left or right side of the bottom, blinking, breaking or exploding, or bouncing like an elastic body, all in a manner that further emphasizes the viewer's emotions and intentions expressed by the expression images EM.

[0087] In addition, Figure 3 Although not shown in FIG, the broadcaster's emoticon EMA also performs an action on the display screen in a manner that further emphasizes the publisher's emotions and intentions. An example of the action of the broadcaster's emoticon EMA will be described in detail later.

[0088] The motion of the facial expression image EM and the broadcaster's facial expression image EMA can be determined, for example, by performing physical calculations based on the laws of physics, such as movement, collision, and fluid motion, obtained from the laws of classical mechanics (mass, velocity, friction, and wind) in the generator 34 of the animation delivery device 30. For example, the generator 34 can calculate the motion of the facial expression image EM and the broadcaster's facial expression image EMA based on the laws of physics, using values ​​such as mass, weight, elastic modulus, surface friction coefficient, and hardness that are set for the facial expression image EM and the broadcaster's facial expression image EMA, respectively.

[0089] The generator 34 can generate motion information that causes the facial expressions EM and the broadcaster facial expressions EMA to interact with each other on the display screens of the viewer terminal 20 and the publisher terminal 10 by executing motions of the facial expressions EM and the broadcaster facial expressions EMA calculated based on the laws of physics. Specifically, the facial expressions EM and the broadcaster facial expressions EMA can each perform motions based on the laws of physics on the display screen, and can also interact with each other by colliding or being blown away.

[0090] The actions of the emoticon image EM and the broadcaster emoticon image EMA are not limited to those described above. For example, when the distance between the communication images EM or between the communication image EM and the broadcaster emoticon image EMA becomes closer than a predetermined value (or when contact is determined after a predetermined time), an action may be performed to cause one or both of them to move away from each other before contact occurs. Alternatively, a fluid such as wind (which may not be a physical force of thought) other than the communication image EM or the broadcaster emoticon image EMA may be blown to cause the communication image EM or the broadcaster emoticon image to fly, move, or bend in the direction of travel.

[0091] For example, the distribution animation data may include motion information of the facial expression image EM and the broadcaster facial expression image EMA, and be distributed to the viewer terminal 20 and the publisher terminal 10. In this case, the viewer terminal 20 and the publisher terminal 10 can cause the facial expression image EM and the broadcaster facial expression image EMA to perform motions on the display screen based on the received motion information.

[0092] The animation distribution device 30 can distribute distribution animation data, which includes data of the facial expressions EM and the broadcaster facial expressions EMA that perform actions based on the action information, and real-time animation data, to the viewer terminal 20 and the publisher terminal 10. Furthermore, the animation distribution device 30 can distribute distribution animation data that is pre-synthesized from the data of the facial expressions EM and the broadcaster facial expressions EMA that perform actions based on the action information and the animation data to the viewer terminal 20 and the publisher terminal 10.

[0093] Furthermore, the motion information of the facial expression EM and the broadcaster facial expression EMA can be calculated by the viewer terminal 20 and the publisher terminal 10, respectively, according to the types of the facial expression EM and the broadcaster facial expression EMA.

[0094] For example, the generating unit 34 may generate motion information (e.g., including at least the current position, direction of travel, speed, rotation, rotation speed, and shape of the communication image, or may include portions thereof) for the communication image EM and the presenter's expression image EMA, and, if other communication images EM and EMA are present, operation instructions for causing them to perform motions based on the laws of physics, and transmit the delivery animation data including the motion information and operation instructions to the delivery unit 38. Based on the motion information and operation instructions included in the delivery animation data delivered from the animation delivery device 30, the viewer terminal 20 displays on the display screen the communication image EM and the presenter's expression image EMA, which perform motions based on the interaction of the communication images EM and EMA based on the laws of physics.

[0095] Furthermore, the distribution animation data may include the data of the communication image EM and the broadcaster communication image EMA, or may include identification information (e.g., number or name) of the communication image EM and the broadcaster communication image EMA. If the distribution animation data includes the identification information of the communication image EM and the broadcaster communication image EMA, the viewer terminal 20 and the publisher terminal 10 can store the data of the communication image EM and the broadcaster communication image EMA in advance, associated with the identification information, and synthesize the data with the content in such a way that the image corresponding to the acquired identification information performs a predetermined action.

[0096] The generator 34 can generate the delivery animation data so that, after the emoticon EM remains on the screen for a predetermined time, the emoticon EM and the broadcaster's emoticon EMA are directed outside the display area or gradually disappear. The generator 34 can adjust the predetermined time until the emoticon EM and the broadcaster's emoticon EMA are no longer displayed on the screen based on the number of emoticons EM and the broadcaster's emoticon EMA included in the content animation per unit time, or can pre-set the time for each type of emoticon EMA and the broadcaster's emoticon EMA.

[0097] Furthermore, if the number of emoticons EM injected into the animation content per unit time exceeds a predetermined threshold, the generator 34 may eliminate the emoticons EM from display. As described above, by adjusting the display time and number of emoticons EM, the viewer's viewing of the animation content is prevented from being obstructed. For example, the generator 34 can control the number of emoticons EM injected and the number of emoticons EM remaining on the display screen of the viewer's terminal 20 at a constant number of seconds. Furthermore, the generator 34 can place a transparent obstruction (or provide a transparent obstruction) on the display screen that is invisible to the viewer and publisher, thereby generating motion information in a manner that does not obstruct viewing of the animation content and directs the emoticons EM and the broadcaster's emoticons EMA to the outside or surrounding areas of the screen. For example, the generator 34 can place a transparent object on the screen (or provide a transparent obstruction) as an obstruction to the emoticons EM and the broadcaster's emoticons EMA, so that the bottom of the emoticons EM and the broadcaster's emoticons EMA is tilted relative to the horizontal. Thus, for example, the expression image EM and the broadcaster expression image EMA falling from the top to the bottom of the screen can generate motion information such that they roll or slide on a transparent object placed at the bottom and are guided to the outside of the screen.

[0098] Furthermore, for example, the generator 34 may place a transparent object in the center of the screen as an obstruction to the facial expressions EM and the presenter's facial expressions EMA (or may use a transparent object as such). This prevents, for example, the facial expressions EM and the presenter's facial expressions EMA that fall from the top of the screen to the bottom, or that are thrust into the screen, from crossing the center of the screen. Furthermore, the facial expressions EM and the presenter's facial expressions EMA that extend from the bottom of the screen to the top will not reach the center of the screen. Consequently, the facial expressions EM and the presenter's facial expressions EMA will not obstruct the viewer's viewing of the animated content.

[0099] Figure 4 This figure schematically shows a portion of an example of a display on a viewer's terminal of content delivered in real time. Figure 3 The second area 110 is shown. The second area 110 includes a charge display area 112 for displaying the charge amount, an expression list display area 114 for displaying a list of expression images EM, a broadcaster expression list display area 115 for displaying a list of broadcaster expression images EMA, and a history display area 116 for displaying the investment history of the expression images EM.

[0100] A plurality of emoticon images EM are arranged in the emoticon list display area 114. Viewers and publishers can select, for example, the emoticon image EM they wish to insert in the emoticon list display area 114 by clicking on it. For example, the viewer terminal 20 and the publisher terminal 10 may include sensors that detect whether the viewer or publisher has touched the display screen. In this case, the viewer or publisher can select the emoticon image EM they wish to insert by touching the emoticon list display area 114 with a finger, a stylus, or the like. Identification information of the emoticon image EM selected by the viewer or publisher is transmitted as input information to the animation distribution device 30.

[0101] Multiple broadcaster expression images EMA are arranged in the broadcaster expression list display area 115. The publisher can select, for example, the broadcaster expression image EMA that they wish to insert in the broadcaster expression list display area 115 by clicking on it. For example, the publisher's terminal 10 may include a sensor that detects whether the publisher has touched the display screen. In this case, the publisher can select the broadcaster expression image EMA they wish to insert by touching the broadcaster expression list display area 115 with a finger, a stylus, or the like. Identification information of the expression image EM selected by the publisher is transmitted as input information to the animation distribution device 30.

[0102] Figures 5 to 7 This is a diagram schematically showing a portion of a display example on a viewer's terminal of content delivered in real time. Figures 5 to 7 It is schematically shown in Figure 4 Multiple display examples of the recharge display area 112 are shown.

[0103] The charge display area 112 is arranged above (vertically above) the expression list display area 114. The charge display area 112 displays an icon ICN set for each viewer, a user name, and a graph BR visually indicating the charge amount.

[0104] The graph BR is a bar graph extending horizontally along the display screen of the viewer's terminal. It reaches its maximum length when the top-up amount reaches 100%, and the graph is displayed so that its length varies according to the top-up amount. The top-up amount management unit 36 ​​manages the top-up amount for each publisher and viewer for content distributed in real time. The top-up amount consumption is set separately for the emoticon images EM and the emoticon images for broadcasters EMA. Viewers can use the allocated top-up amount to insert the emoticon images EM into the animation content. Similarly, publishers can use the allocated top-up amount to insert the emoticon images EM and the emoticon images for broadcasters EMA into the animation content.

[0105] For example, if a viewer with a charge of 500 for the content currently being viewed enters an emoticon image EM that consumes a charge of 100, the remaining charge of the viewer becomes 400, which is reduced by the charge (100) that consumes the horizontal length of the graph BR. For example, if a publisher with a charge of 1000 for the content currently being distributed enters a broadcaster emoticon image EMA that consumes a charge of 200, the remaining charge of the publisher becomes 800, which is reduced by the charge (200) that consumes the horizontal length of the graph BR.

[0106] The maximum value of the recharge amount may vary depending on the user level of the viewer and publisher. Figure 5 In the example shown, the user level of the viewer and publisher is at the top, and the maximum recharge amount is 1,500. Figure 6 In the display example shown, the user levels of the viewer and the publisher are at the lower level, and the maximum recharge amount is 500.

[0107] Figure 7 shows an example of the display in the charge display area 112 when the charge amount reaches zero. The charge amount management unit 36 ​​manages the charge amount so that it returns to 100% after a predetermined period of time has passed since the 0% state. When the charge amount falls below the value at which the emoticon images EM and the broadcaster emoticon images EMA can be deposited, for example, the emoticon images EM and the broadcaster emoticon images cannot be selected (displayed as inactive), and a message such as "Please wait until the value is restored" appears near the graph BR.

[0108] Figure 8 This figure schematically shows a portion of an example of a display on a viewer's terminal of content delivered in real time. Figure 4 An example of a display in the history display area 116 is shown.

[0109] History display area 116 is located below expression list display area 114 (vertically below the display screen). In history display area 116, the history of expression images EM that have been inserted into the animated content currently being viewed by the viewer is displayed, arranged in order of the largest number of insertions. The history display may be a display of the number of insertions of expression images EM, or a display of the number of insertions of both expression images EM and the number of insertions of the broadcaster's expression images EMA.

[0110] exist Figure 8In the example shown, in the resume display area 116, bar charts G1 - G5 corresponding to the input numbers and expression images EM corresponding to the bar charts G1 - G5 are displayed. The bar charts G1 - G5 are bar charts extending in the horizontal direction on the display screen, and the length in the horizontal direction of the bar charts G1 - G5 is set according to the input number of the expression image EM. The bar charts G1 - G5 are arranged and configured in the horizontal direction on the display screen.

[0111] In this example, the input numbers of the expression images EM increase in the order of "草(草)", "どんまい(别在意)", "なるほど(原来如此)", "おめ(恭喜)", "W". For example, the expression image EM with the most input number of "草" is displayed near the corresponding bar chart G1.

[0112] Figure 9 It is a diagram schematically showing an example of an expression image and a broadcaster - used expression image displayed on a part of the display screen of the viewer terminal.

[0113] In this example, a part of the first area 100 is shown, and expression images EM based on characters such as "おつ(辛苦)", "なるほど(原来如此)", "かわいい(可爱)", "草", "W", "いいね(好啊)", expression images EM based on a heart - shaped graphic, and the broadcaster - used expression image EMA in which the characters "はいはいはいはい(是是是是)" are recorded in a blown - out graphic are input into the animation content.

[0114] Regarding the above - mentioned expression image EM and broadcaster - used expression image EMA, the color, shape, and movement are set in a way that expresses the feelings and intentions of the viewer and the publisher. For example, the expression image EM based on the character "草" can be set to perform an action of simulating grass growing from the ground. For example, the expression image EM based on a heart - shaped graphic can be set to be input from the upper side in the vertical direction of the display screen and float fluffy in the screen while falling downward. For example, regarding the expression image EM based on the character "W", in order to express the smiling appearance of the viewer, the movement can be set to bounce or vibrate within the display screen.

[0115] For example, regarding the broadcaster - used expression image EMA in which the characters "はいはいはいはい" are recorded in a blown - out graphic, the action can be performed to cross the screen from one side to the other at the bottom of the display screen, and it can be set to squeeze the expression images EM accumulated at the bottom of the display screen to the outside of the display screen.

[0116] A plurality of expression images EM and the broadcaster's expression image EMA input to the content can be set to act, for example, through the physical operation of the generation unit 34. When the action at the time of input ends, they change to a state of piling up at the bottom of the screen due to gravity. In addition, after staying within the screen for a specified time, the expression images EM are displayed in a manner of being guided out of the screen or gradually disappearing, so that the expression images EM do not fill the screen and obstruct the viewing of the animation content.

[0117] Figure 10 FIG. is a diagram schematically showing an example of an expression image and a broadcaster's expression image displayed on a part of the display screen of the viewer terminal.

[0118] In this example, a part of the first area 100 is shown, and expression images EM based on characters such as "おつ", "なるほど", "かわいい", "草", "W", "いいね", etc., expression images EM based on heart-shaped graphics, and the broadcaster's expression image EMA in which the characters "おちつけ!!!(Calm down!!!)" are recorded in a blowing graphic are input to the animation content.

[0119] For example, the broadcaster's expression image EMA in the form of a blowing graphic in which the characters "おちつけ!!!" are recorded acts to blow away a plurality of expression images EM input from the viewer terminal 20 to the outside of the display screen.

[0120] Figure 11 FIG. is a diagram schematically showing a display example of the broadcaster's expression image displayed on a part of the display screen of the viewer terminal.

[0121] In this example, a part of the first area 100 is shown, and the broadcaster's expression image EMA in which the characters "見てる?(Are you watching?)", "見てるよね?(Are you watching?)", "見てるんでしょ?(You're watching, right?)" are recorded in a blowing graphic is input to the animation content.

[0122] For example, when there are few comments and expression images EM from viewers for the animation content published by the publisher himself / herself, the publisher can input the broadcaster's expression image EMA in the form of a blowing graphic in which the characters "見てる?" are recorded and request the viewers to input expression images EM based on the characters "みてるよ (I'm watching)" etc. The broadcaster's expression image EMA in the form of a blowing graphic in which the characters "見てる?" are recorded can be set to float on the display screen for a specified time and disappear after a specified time has passed, for example.

[0123] Figure 12 FIG. is a diagram schematically showing a display example of the broadcaster's expression image displayed on a part of the display screen of the viewer terminal.

[0124] In this example, a portion of the first area 100 is shown, and a presenter emoticon EMA showing an image of a person extending his arms in both directions from a blowing shape of the characters "ください (Please)" is inserted into the animation content.

[0125] For example, when requesting viewers to insert an emoticon EM for their published animated content, the publisher can insert a broadcaster emoticon EMA containing the text "ください" and request the viewer to insert the emoticon EM. The broadcaster emoticon EMA, which is a blown-out graphic containing the text "ください," is displayed at the bottom of the display screen, for example. If the emoticon EM inserted from the viewer's terminal 20 performs a falling motion, the broadcaster emoticon EMA's arms catch the emoticon EM. The broadcaster emoticon EMA can be configured to appear on the display screen for a specified time and then disappear after the specified time has elapsed.

[0126] Using the above Figure 3-Figure 12 Although the display example of the viewer terminal 20 based on the distribution animation data supplied from the animation distribution device 30 has been described, the display example of the viewer terminal 20 is not limited to this.

[0127] Figure 13 This figure schematically shows another display example of a viewer terminal of content delivered in real time. Here, a display example is schematically shown when the viewer terminal 20 is a mobile terminal such as a smartphone or a tablet terminal.

[0128] exist Figure 13 In the display example, a third area 200 including a portion displaying animation content and a fourth area 210 for presenting a list of emoticon images EM to the viewer are displayed side by side on the screen of a mobile terminal, for example.

[0129] The third area 200 is Figure 3 The area of ​​the first area 100 shown, where the display mode is changed, includes a portion displaying the video content, a portion displaying operation buttons, a time bar, etc., and an input button for the viewer to input comments.

[0130] The fourth area 210 is Figure 3 The fourth area 210 is an area where the display method of the second area 110 shown is changed, and includes a recharge display area 212 for displaying the recharge amount, an expression list display area 214 for displaying a list of expression images EM, a broadcaster expression list display area 215 for displaying a list of broadcaster expression images EMA, and a history display area 216 for displaying the investment history of the expression images EM.

[0131] The display elements included in the third area 200 and the fourth area 210 are the same as those in the display example when the viewer terminal 20 is a personal computer, and therefore their description is omitted here.

[0132] Mobile terminals such as smartphones and tablets have sensors that detect the position touched by the viewer on the display screen. The viewer can use a finger or a stylus to select any of the expression images EM presented in the expression list display area 214 to select an expression image EM to be included in the animation content.

[0133] Figure 14 This is a flowchart for explaining an example of a moving image distribution method by the moving image distribution device according to the first embodiment.

[0134] In the animation delivery device 30 , the first acquisition unit 321 acquires the real-time animation data supplied from the publisher terminal 10 (step S1 ).

[0135] The second acquisition unit 322 acquires input information including information on the broadcaster expression image (communication image) EMA selected by the publisher by operating the publisher terminal 10 (step S2 ).

[0136] Next, the generator 34 receives the real-time animation data from the first acquisition unit 321 and the input information from the publisher terminal 10 from the second acquisition unit 322. The generator 34 can specify the broadcast emoticon EMA to be input based on the identification information of the broadcaster emoticon EMA included in the input information from the publisher terminal 10.

[0137] Furthermore, the generator 34 can receive a distribution request and input information from the viewer terminal 20 via the receiver 32. The generator 34 can use the distribution request and input information from the viewer terminal 20 to determine the animation content to be visually recognized by the viewer or the viewer terminal 20 and the viewer. Furthermore, the generator 34 can determine the facial expression EM to be inserted into the animation content to be visually recognized by the viewer based on the identification information of the facial expression EM included in the input information.

[0138] The generation unit 34 can use the display information generated by the recharge amount management unit 36 ​​to generate delivery expression animation data in which the broadcaster's expression image EMA performs a predetermined action on the display screen of the viewer terminal 20 and the publisher terminal 10, and use the delivery expression animation data and the real-time animation data to generate delivery animation data (step S3).

[0139] The delivery unit 38 receives the delivery animation data from the generation unit 34 and delivers the delivery animation data to the viewer terminal 20 and the delivery terminal 10 that received the delivery request under the control of the delivery control unit 35 (step S4).

[0140] As described above, the animation distribution device, animation distribution method, and recording medium of this embodiment can provide a service that facilitates two-way communication between a publisher who distributes animation content live and their viewers, and that arouses enthusiasm for animation content.

[0141] Next, a moving image distribution device, a moving image distribution method, and a recording medium according to a second embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0142] In the following description, the same reference numerals are given to the same configurations as those in the first embodiment, and description thereof will be omitted.

[0143] In the moving image delivery device of this embodiment, the operation of the charge amount management unit 36 ​​is different from that of the first embodiment described above.

[0144] In this embodiment, when a viewer chooses to engage in an operation of an expression image EM while viewing live animation content, input information such as the length of time the mouse is pressed and held to align the cursor position with the expression image EM and the pressure applied to the display screen by touching the expression image EM with a fingertip, a stylus, or the like is provided from the viewer terminal 20 to the animation publishing device 30.

[0145] In addition, when the publisher publishes live animation content, in the operation of selecting the expression image EM and the expression image EMA for broadcaster, for example, the length of time of the operation of long-pressing the mouse to align the position of the cursor with the expression image EM and the expression image EMA for broadcaster, and the pressure applied to the display screen by touching the expression image EM and the expression image for broadcaster with the fingertip, stylus, etc. are supplied as input information from the publisher terminal 10 to the animation publishing device 30.

[0146] Furthermore, the information regarding the pressure exerted on the display screen by the viewer's or publisher's operation may be the pressure value detected by the pressure sensors in the viewer's or publisher's terminal 20 or 10, or the contact area value when the viewer's or publisher's fingertips touch the display screens of the viewer's or publisher's terminal 20 or 10. The recharge amount management unit 36 ​​may be configured to calculate the pressure value during the operation based on the contact area value during the operation supplied from the viewer's or publisher's terminal 20 or 10.

[0147] Figure 15 This is a diagram for explaining an example of the operation of a viewer terminal for displaying content distributed in real time.

[0148] Here, as an example, the case of selecting the broadcaster's expression image EMA based on the text "Ochitsuke (calm down)" from the list of broadcaster's expression images EMA displayed in the second area 110 (or the fourth area 210) of the display screen of the publisher terminal 10 will be described.

[0149] The publisher can adjust the recharge amount consumed by the selected broadcaster's expression image EMA according to the duration of the operation of clicking the mouse or touching the screen, and the pressure exerted on the screen during the operation.

[0150] The recharge amount management unit 36 of the animation publishing device 30 can change the display state of the second area 110 (or the fourth area 210) of the publisher terminal 10 based on the information on the duration of the operation and the pressure during the operation included in the input information from the publisher terminal 10. For example, if the publisher places the cursor on the broadcaster's expression image EMA based on the text "Ochitsuke" and clicks the mouse (or touches it with a fingertip, stylus, etc.), the broadcaster's expression image EMA based on the text "Ochitsuke" is selected. The recharge amount consumed and the circular (or arc-shaped) bar graph indicating the level of the consumed recharge amount are displayed on the selected broadcaster's expression image EMA.

[0151] In Figure 15 shows a situation where the recharge amount consumed by the selected broadcaster's expression image EMA changes in four stages. The recharge amount management unit 36 can generate display information in such a way that when the duration of the operation or the pressure during the operation included in the input information is less than or equal to the first threshold, the consumed recharge amount becomes "100", which is displayed as "100" near the broadcaster's expression image EMA based on the text "Ochitsuke", and the circular bar graph surrounding the broadcaster's expression image EMA is displayed.

[0152] If the duration of the operation or the pressure during the operation included in the input information is greater than the first threshold, the recharge amount management unit 36 can set the consumed recharge amount to a value exceeding "100" according to the value of the operation duration or pressure. For example, the recharge amount management unit 36 can set the initial value of the consumed recharge amount to "100", and set it to reach the maximum value "500" when the operation duration or pressure exceeds the second threshold (> the first threshold), and set it to change continuously from the initial value to the maximum value according to the value of the operation duration or pressure. It can also set multiple thresholds between the first threshold and the second threshold, and set it to increase the consumed recharge amount stepwise (non-continuously) (for example, increase non-continuously as "100", "200",... "500") whenever the value of the operation duration or pressure exceeds the threshold.

[0153] The recharge amount management unit 36 can generate display information in such a manner that, based on the consumed recharge amount, it changes the numerical value of the consumed recharge amount displayed near the broadcaster's emoticon image EMA in the second area 110 (or the fourth area 210), and changes the length of the arc-shaped bar graph displayed along the circle surrounding the broadcaster's emoticon image EMA.

[0154] In addition, the recharge amount management unit 36 can generate display information in such a way that it changes the size of the broadcaster's emoticon image EMA selected in the second area 110 (or the fourth area 210) according to the value of the consumed recharge amount. In Figure 15 the example shown, if the consumed recharge amount increases, the selected broadcaster's emoticon image EMA is also enlarged for display.

[0155] The generation unit 34 can generate animation data for distribution based on the display information generated by the recharge amount management unit 36, and can change the size and movement of the broadcaster's emoticon image EMA according to the size of the recharge amount of the broadcaster's emoticon image EMA (or the operation time length or pressure value), and incorporate it into the animation content.

[0156] In addition, Figure 15 shows a display example when the broadcaster's emoticon image EMA based on the text "calm down" is selected, but the same applies when other broadcaster's emoticon images EMA and emoticon images EM are selected. Also, in the viewer terminal 20, when the viewer selects the emoticon image EM, the consumed recharge amount and the movement and size of the emoticon image EM can be adjusted in the same way according to the operation time length and pressure value of the viewer.

[0157] [[ID=I6]] Figure 16 is a diagram showing Figure 15 a part of the display example of the viewer terminal shown.

[0158] Here, only the image of the consumed recharge amount and the circular or arc-shaped chart displayed on the broadcaster's emoticon image EMA selected by the publisher is shown. The publisher can also select other broadcaster's emoticon images EMA and emoticon images EM other than the text "calm down", and the recharge amount management unit 36 can also adjust the recharge amount consumed according to the operation time length or the pressure during operation for other broadcaster's emoticon images EMA and emoticon images EM. [[ID=I4]]

[0159] Figure 17 is a diagram exemplifying the relationship between the broadcaster's emoticon image that the publisher can incorporate and the consumed recharge amount.

[0160] The generation unit 34 can generate animation data for distribution based on the display information generated by the recharge amount management unit 36, and can change the size and movement of the broadcaster's expression image EMA according to the size of the recharge amount of the broadcaster's expression image EMA (or the operation time length or pressure value), and input it into the animation content.

[0161] For example, the size and movement of the broadcaster's expression image EMA can be set to be smaller when the recharge amount consumed is less, and larger when the recharge amount consumed is more.

[0162] For example, regarding the broadcaster's expression image EMA based on the text "落ち着け", when the recharge amount consumed is less, the size of the image is smaller, and the action of blowing away other surrounding expression images EM according to the image can also be set to be smaller. When the recharge amount consumed is more, the size of the image is larger, and the action of blowing away other surrounding expression images EM according to the image can also be set to be larger.

[0163] Regarding the broadcaster's expression image EMA based on the text "はいはい" for example, when the recharge amount consumed is less, the size of the image is set to be smaller, and the other expression images EM squeezed out of the display screen according to the image also decrease. When the recharge amount consumed is more, the size of the image is set to be larger, and the other expression images EM squeezed out of the display screen according to the image also increase.

[0164] Regarding the broadcaster's expression image EMA based on the text "見てる?" and the broadcaster's expression image EMA based on the text "ください" for example, when the recharge amount consumed is less, the size of the image is set to be smaller, and the attraction to the viewers is controlled. When the recharge amount consumed is more, the size of the image is set to be larger, and the attraction to the viewers is enhanced.

[0165] Except for the above content, the animation distribution device 30 of the present embodiment is the same as the first embodiment above.

[0166] That is, according to the animation distribution device, animation distribution method, and recording medium of the present embodiment, it is possible to provide a service that facilitates two-way communication between the publisher of the animation content during the live broadcast and the viewers, and makes the animation content exciting.

[0167] In addition, the present invention is not limited to the above-mentioned embodiments, and various modifications can be made during the implementation stage without departing from the scope of the main purpose. In addition, the various embodiments can be appropriately combined and implemented, in which case the effect of the combination can be obtained. Moreover, the above-mentioned embodiments include various inventions, and various inventions can be extracted by combining the selected multiple technical features disclosed. For example, in the case where the problem can be solved and the effect can be obtained even if several technical features are deleted from all the technical features shown in the embodiment, the structure in which these technical features are deleted can be extracted as an invention.

[0168] Description of the label

[0169] 10…Publisher terminal, 20…Viewer terminal, 30…Animation publishing device, 32…Receiving unit, 34…Generation unit, 35…Publishing control unit, 36…Recharge amount management unit, 38…Publishing unit, 100…1st area, 110…2nd area, 112, 212…Recharge display area, 114, 214…Emoticon list display area, 116, 216…History display area, 200…3rd area, 210…4th area, 321…1st acquisition unit, 322…2nd acquisition unit, 323…3rd acquisition unit, EM…Emoticon image (second communication image), EMA…Emoticon image for broadcaster, G1-G5, BR…Chart.

Claims

1. An animation publishing device, wherein: The animation publishing device comprises: a first acquisition unit for acquiring real-time animation data supplied from a publisher terminal; a second acquisition unit for acquiring input information including information on a communication image selected by an operation of the publisher terminal; as well as a distribution unit that distributes distribution animation data including the communication image data and the real-time animation data to the viewer terminal and the publisher terminal; The communication image is an image in which text or graphics are set to move in order to express the feelings and intentions of the publisher. It is an image that facilitates communication between the viewer and the publisher. The communication image performs prescribed actions based on physical laws on the display screen.

2. The animation distribution device according to claim 1, wherein: The animation publishing device also has: a third acquisition unit for acquiring input information including information on a second communication image selected by an operation of the viewer terminal; as well as a generating unit configured to generate motion information for displaying the communication image and the second communication image in a manner such that the communication image and the second communication image perform predetermined motions on a display screen according to physical laws, thereby interactively performing motions; The delivery animation data includes data of the second communication image and the motion information.

3. The animation delivery device according to claim 1, wherein: The animation distribution device further includes a generating unit including a recharge amount management unit, which allocates a recharge amount to each publisher operating the publisher terminal for the real-time animation data distributed to the viewer terminal, and generates display information for displaying the communication image by consuming the recharge amount allocated to the publisher when the recharge amount consumed for displaying the communication image is less than a current value of the recharge amount allocated to the publisher. The delivery animation data further includes the display information.

4. The animation distribution device according to claim 3, wherein: The input information includes information on the length of time the publisher terminal is operated or the pressure applied to the screen when the publisher terminal is operated, and identification information of the selected communication image. The charge amount management unit consumes a value corresponding to the time length or the pressure information from the charge amount to generate the display information including the time length or the pressure information. The generating unit changes the movement or size of the communication image according to the time length or the pressure.

5. The animation distribution device according to claim 1, wherein: The input information includes identification information of the selected communication image, The delivery animation data includes action information for performing an action corresponding to the identification information when the communication image is displayed on the viewer terminal.

6. The animation delivery device according to claim 3, wherein: The charge amount management unit manages the input history of the communication image based on the input information during a period from the start to the end of distribution of the real-time animation data.

7. A method for publishing an animation, wherein: The animation publishing method comprises the following steps: The first acquisition step is to acquire real-time animation data provided from the publisher terminal; a second acquisition step of acquiring input information including information about a communication image selected by an operation of the publisher terminal; as well as a distribution step of distributing the distribution animation data including the communication image data and the real-time animation data to the viewer terminal and the publisher terminal; The communication image is an image in which text or graphics are set to move in order to express the feelings and intentions of the publisher. It is an image that facilitates communication between the viewer and the publisher. The communication image performs prescribed actions based on physical laws on the display screen.

8. A recording medium capable of being read by a computer and recording an animation distribution program, wherein: The animation publishing program enables the computer to perform the following functions: The first acquisition function is to acquire real-time animation data provided from the publisher terminal; a second acquisition function for acquiring input information including information on a communication image selected by an operation of the publisher terminal; a generating function for generating animation data for distribution using the data of the communication image that performs a predetermined action on a display screen and the real-time animation data; as well as The distribution function distributes the distribution animation data including the distribution animation data to the viewer terminal and the publisher terminal using the communication image data and the real-time animation data. The communication image is an image in which text or graphics are set to move in order to express the feelings and intentions of the publisher. It is an image that facilitates communication between the viewer and the publisher. The communication image performs prescribed actions based on physical laws on the display screen.

Images