Dynamic image content publishing method and system

Abstract

A method and system for publishing dynamic image content is provided. The method is used in a dynamic image content publishing system, which includes a television gateway, which is configured between a video platform and a television receiver. The television gateway provides dynamic image content from the video platform to the television receiver. The video platform transmits the advertisement type and ad start time along with program information data. The television receiver identifies the advertisement type and, when the ad start time has arrived, displays the advertisement dynamic image or image on the screen.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority to Japanese patent application No. 2021-098249 filed with the Japan Patent Office on June 11, 2021, with the invention name “Dynamic Image Content Publishing Service,” the entire contents of which are incorporated by reference into this application. Technical Field

[0003] The present application relates to a method and system for publishing dynamic image content. Background Art

[0004] In recent years, with the advancement of the Internet, video distribution services have become increasingly common. Furthermore, these services go beyond simply viewing videos and include interactive services that connect videos with web information, such as directing users to e-commerce (EC) websites for product purchases and viewing detailed information within the video itself from web information (e.g., news and ticketing information).

[0005] In addition, video distribution services are provided by various CSPs (Content Service Providers). Users sign a contract with each CSP to view the videos provided by that CSP. When signing a contract, each CSP issues an ID and password for user identification.

[0006] Furthermore, when watching videos released by various CSPs on a television, users have traditionally used a remote control to enter their ID and password. TV remotes typically have directional keys for moving the focus up, down, left, and right, and numeric keys for entering numbers. They lack the ease of text input found on PC (Personal Computer) keyboards. Therefore, entering IDs and passwords can be a significant burden for users, hindering their ability to watch videos easily.

[0007] Prior art literature

[0008] Patent Literature

[0009] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2006-222674

[0010] Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2020-102720 Summary of the Invention

[0011] The problem to be solved by the present application is to enable input of an ID and a password related to a contract for viewing VOD content, etc., without relying on operating a remote controller for a television receiver.

[0012] A dynamic image content distribution system includes a television gateway, which is configured between a video platform and a television receiver and is used to connect the dynamic image content from the video platform to the television receiver. The video platform sends the advertisement type and the time when the advertisement starts together with the program information data as information for displaying an advertisement on the screen at a specified time during the broadcast of the dynamic image content program. The television receiver identifies the advertisement type and displays the advertisement dynamic image or advertisement image on the screen if it is time to start the advertisement.

[0013] According to the configuration of the present application, advertisements are displayed on the screen at a specified time during the broadcast of programs on a linear channel, thereby providing guidance for recommending programs to VOD and the like. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0014] Figure 1 This is a diagram showing an example configuration of a dynamic image distribution system;

[0015] Figure 2 It is an illustration of the program list displayed on a television;

[0016] Figure 3 FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a configuration example of a moving image distribution system according to a first embodiment;

[0017] Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the operation of the dynamic image distribution system;

[0018] Figure 5 This is a diagram for explaining an example of program table configuration information, which is data constituting a program table;

[0019] Figure 6 This is a diagram illustrating an example of a program table constructed using program table construction information;

[0020] Figure 7 FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the order in which moving images are played from a program table;

[0021] Figure 8 This is a diagram showing an example of the VOD viewing order from the program table;

[0022] Figure 9 is a diagram showing an example of the order in which advertisements are displayed;

[0023] Figure 10 A diagram that describes the layout information of an advertisement;

[0024] Figure 11This figure shows an application example of displaying advertisements in a current program using program list configuration information;

[0025] Figure 12 This figure shows an application example of displaying advertisements in past programs using program list configuration information;

[0026] Figure 13 This is a diagram illustrating the periodic update of program table configuration information;

[0027] Figure 14 This is a diagram illustrating the update of an emergency message;

[0028] Figure 15 This is a diagram of the structure of a television receiver;

[0029] Figure 16 This is a diagram of the composition of the video platform;

[0030] Figure 17 This is a diagram of the TV gateway.

[0031] Figure 18 This is a diagram of the TV cloud.

[0032] Figure 19 This figure explains an example of the operation up to ID binding in the dynamic image distribution system;

[0033] Figure 20 This is a diagram showing an example of information stored in the ID combination information DB for identifying members and their rights status;

[0034] Figure 21 FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of information for identifying a playback device stored in the ID combination information DB;

[0035] Figure 22 This is a diagram illustrating the flow of signals involved in ID provision in a TV gateway;

[0036] Figure 23 This is a diagram illustrating a method of inserting a mid-roll advertisement;

[0037] Figure 24 This figure explains a method of inserting an advertisement image.

[0038] Figure 25 This figure explains a method for inserting a clickable ad image.

[0039] Figure 26 This is a diagram explaining a method of guiding from a clickable button to VOD.

[0040] Description of Reference Numerals

[0041] 101-108…CSP (content service provider), 109…mobile terminal, 111…video platform, 120…ID combination information DB, 121…TV gateway, 131…TV cloud, 141…TV receiver, 191…subscription database, 301…program schedule composition information, 1706…combination information reference unit. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0042] This application utilizes a TV gateway to connect multiple video platforms and multiple TV receivers, making it easy to select dynamic image content and enabling the distribution of high-quality dynamic image content. This system not only allows for simple dynamic image viewing but also enables users to purchase products from EC (e-commerce) websites through dynamic image content. It also enables interactive services that link dynamic images with web information, such as allowing users to confirm detailed content from web information (such as news and ticket information) via dynamic images.

[0043] To achieve these advanced services, the provision of video content has been further developed in recent years in various forms. For example, a video distribution service that allows users to watch desired video content at any time is called VOD (Video On Demand), and there are currently various VOD methods.

[0044] Broadly speaking, there are advertising video distribution services called AVOD (Advertising Video On Demand), fixed-rate video distribution services called SVOD (Subscription Video on Demand), and rental-type video distribution services called TVOD (Transaction Video On Demand).

[0045] While AVOD offers free viewing of moving images, it does include advertisements. Therefore, revenue is not generated by viewers who watch the moving images, but by the companies that provide the advertisements. On the other hand, SVOD allows viewers to view any number of available moving image content for a fixed monthly fee. Furthermore, TVOD allows viewers to restrict access to individual moving image content, such as for a one-week period. Therefore, both SVOD and TVOD generate revenue from viewers who watch the moving images.

[0046] As mentioned above, there are a variety of video distribution services. There is a need for a video distribution system that can flexibly support these viewing methods through television receivers, allowing viewers to enjoy the content easily without confusion. Therefore, the aforementioned TV gateway function needs to support these methods.

[0047] This application provides a new dynamic image distribution system that adds functionality to a television gateway that supports various VOD formats, such as AVOD, SVOD, and TVOD, and simplifies the selection of dynamic image content. The television gateway enables television receivers with varying performance and functionality to receive dynamic image content transmitted from multiple dynamic image distribution platforms over a network. Furthermore, a more efficient method for displaying advertising dynamic images is provided for AVOD.

[0048] The TV gateway can connect multiple video platforms to multiple TV receivers, enabling more advanced interactive services. In particular, by providing a standardized method for selecting dynamic image content for TV receivers with different functions and performance, it facilitates the selection of a wider range of dynamic image content without sacrificing user convenience.

[0049] However, while the selection of video content through a TV gateway utilizes linear channels, a broadcast-style approach to video distribution, this approach, like broadcast, focuses on a one-sided, continuous delivery system based on time information. While some recommended programs can be displayed, it lacks compatibility with various VOD formats. Thus, the provision of video content using linear channels typically consists of free video content and advertising, constituting a type of AVOD. However, with the increasing popularity of diverse video distribution services, including SVOD and TVOD, not just AVOD, support for these VOD formats is crucial.

[0050] AVOD allows viewers to watch free video content by posting advertisements, while SVOD allows viewers to watch video content freely for a fixed monthly fee. TVOD allows viewers to watch video content for a limited period by purchasing individual videos. To support these needs, it is necessary to confirm the viewer's contract status, making it difficult to support this with conventional TV gateway systems.

[0051] Furthermore, in AVOD, since revenue is generated from companies through advertising, an effective method for displaying advertisements is essential. Conventional TV gateways have had functions for inserting advertisements and for targeting advertisements to individual TV receivers, but they have not provided specific methods for more effective display methods. Furthermore, in recent years, hybrid services have been offered that transition from AVOD to SVOD services or that combine the sale of paid content provided by TVOD. Implementing such hybrid services in conventional TV gateways requires confirmation of the viewer's contract terms and the linkage of advertising and VOD, so these functions need to be properly equipped.

[0052] Figure 1 : is a diagram showing an example of the structure of a dynamic image distribution system. Figure 1 In the example, CSPs (Content Service Providers) 1301 to 1308 provide video content. The video content is input to video platforms 1311 to 1313, respectively. Video platforms 1311 to 1313 input the video content to a TV gateway 1321, which then transmits the content to TV receivers 1341 to 1350 via TV clouds 1331 to 1334.

[0053] Each video platform has different publishing methods, so each dynamic image content can only be received by a limited number of TV receivers. There are methods in which the TV gateway converts the format of the dynamic image content, and there are methods in which the video platform has a built-in converter. Figure 1 Video platforms 1311 to 1313 in the video streaming platform are equipped with built-in converters. Furthermore, each TV cloud corresponds to a TV receiver with different performance and functions. TV receivers managed by each TV cloud are connected to devices with nearly identical performance and functions, while those with different performance and functions are connected to different TV clouds. By converting different TV receivers through the TV cloud, they can select and receive optimal dynamic image content despite their different functions and performance. This allows a dynamic image distribution system with a TV gateway to distribute dynamic image content from multiple video platforms in different formats to TV receivers with varying performance and functions.

[0054] Once the video content is input to a television via the TV gateway 1321 and a connection is established, the video stream can be directly input from the video platforms 1311-1313 to the television receivers 1341-1350. Furthermore, the television receivers 1341-1350 are connected to the mobile terminals 1301-1310, and the TV-ID (an ID associated with each of the television receivers 1341-1350) and the SP-ID (an ID associated with each of the viewer's mobile terminals 1301-1310) are combined. This combined information is stored in the TV-ID and SP-ID combination information storage unit 1352. Furthermore, viewing data output from the television receivers 1341-1350 is stored in the viewing data storage unit 1351.

[0055] Content recommendations are made in the content recommendation information storage unit 1353 based on viewing data stored in the viewing data storage unit 1351 and the output of the TV-ID and SP-ID combination information storage unit 1352. For advertisement content output from the advertisement server 1355, appropriate advertisements are selected by the recommended advertisement selection and insertion unit 1354 based on the output of the content recommendation information storage unit 1353 and inserted into the video platforms 1311 to 1313. Furthermore, the receiving-side advertisement insertion unit 1356 utilizes the functions of the television receiver to insert advertisements.

[0056] Figure 2 This diagram illustrates the program list displayed on a television. Video content provided by video platforms is delivered to televisions via a linear distribution system that continuously streams at set times, similar to broadcasting. Therefore, video content is selected using a program list that displays the same channels and times as broadcasting.

[0057] Furthermore, the gateway combines the viewer's SP-ID 1421 with the TV-ID 1422 identifying the television, enabling customized program listings. Recommended content 1401-1403 is displayed overlaid on the program listing based on the viewing preferences of the viewer on this television receiver. In this example, because the mobile ID (SP-ID) 1421 belonging to video platform 1411 is combined with the TV-ID 1422 of this television receiver, video content provided by video platform 1411 is particularly recommended.

[0058] This program list is composed of common EPG (Electronic Programming Guide) data 1404 supplied from the TV gateway. The EPG common data 1404 consists of at least a schedule showing time information, program metadata including information such as program descriptions, and banner data for displaying channels.

[0059] With the above configuration, each video platform can display content to a wider range of TV receivers by inputting it into the TV gateway, regardless of the different performance and functionality of TV receivers (panel size, pixel count, resolution, etc.). Furthermore, by enabling TV receivers to collaborate with mobile terminals such as smartphones, the operability of advanced services can be improved by using mobile terminals instead of single-function remote controls with different operability. Furthermore, advanced smartphone-TV collaboration is possible, which was not possible with existing remote controls.

[0060] A video distribution system using a TV gateway can display program listings for TVs with varying capabilities and functions, eliminating confusion among the various video platforms and enabling viewers to choose from a wide range of content. While this system is highly effective for linear channel distribution of video content, it lacks functionality and is difficult to adapt to other distribution methods.

[0061] The video gateway needs to provide functions related to hybrid services corresponding to AVOD, SVOD, and TVOD.

[0062] This application adds data corresponding to multiple VOD distribution methods to the data forming the program guide, enabling easy selection of motion picture content distributed by AVOD, SVOD, and TVOD. Furthermore, by improving the structure of the program guide, it also provides a more convenient function for selecting motion picture content distributed by linear channels. Furthermore, by using the data forming the additional program guide for advertising display, more effective advertising presentations for viewers are achieved.

[0063] The data constituting the program guide described above in this application will be referred to as "program guide configuration information" for further explanation. This program guide configuration information enables a hybrid video selection system combining AVOD, SVOD, and TVOD, enabling digest viewing of linear channels and preview viewing of video content. Furthermore, it enables overlay advertising and clickable VOD, combining video advertising content with VOD.

[0064] The following describes, based on the accompanying drawings, the composition of program schedule composition information, the distribution method, a new program schedule composition method that allows easy selection of future programs, current programs, and past programs, the composition and display method of a program schedule corresponding to any of AVOD, TVOD, and SVOD distribution methods, a more effective advertising display method that combines VOD and advertising, preview dynamic image content of future programs, summary viewing of past programs, and emergency messages for urgently changing program schedule composition information.

[0065] (First embodiment)

[0066] The first embodiment of the present application will be described using the drawings. Figure 3 This diagram illustrates an example configuration of a video distribution system according to the first embodiment. Content Service Providers (CSPs) 101-108 provide video content. The video content is input to video platforms 111-113, respectively. Video platforms 111-113 input the video content to a TV gateway 121, which then transmits it to TV receivers 141-150 via TV clouds 131-134.

[0067] As described above, the function of distributing dynamic image content to a television receiver is similar to Figure 1 Same as Figure 1 A major difference between the video distribution system using a TV gateway and the video platforms 111-113 is that the subscription databases 191-193 are connected to the video platforms 111-113. Subscription databases 191-193 accumulate and store the contract terms of viewers who view the video content distributed by the video platforms 111-113. Therefore, the video platforms 111-113 can query the subscription databases 191-193 at any time to confirm the contract terms of the viewers.

[0068] on the other hand, Figure 1 The TV-ID and SP-ID combination information storage unit 1352 of the dynamic image distribution system shown in the figure becomes the MA-ID and HA-ID combination information storage unit 152 in the dynamic image distribution system of this application. Here, HA-ID and MA-ID are abbreviations for Home Agent ID and Mobile Agent ID, respectively. HA-ID is an ID that identifies the TV cloud and TV receiver, and MA-ID is an ID that identifies the user of the video platform and mobile terminal, and is a composite identifier. Subscription databases 111-113 can identify users based on MA-ID and confirm their viewing conditions.

[0069] Furthermore, television receivers 141-150 are connected to mobile terminals 171-180, and the HA-ID and MA-ID are combined. This combined information is stored in a MA-ID and HA-ID combined information storage unit 152. In the video distribution system of this application, the MA-ID and HA-ID combined information storage unit 152 is linked to subscription databases 191-193 to accommodate various VOD distribution methods.

[0070] In addition, the viewing data storage unit 151, the content recommendation information storage unit 153, the advertising server 155, and the receiving side advertising insertion unit 156 are connected with each other. Figure 1 The same operation as the dynamic image distribution system shown in .

[0071] Figure 4 This figure illustrates an example of the operation of a dynamic image distribution system. Figure 3 The entire video distribution system shown is an extract of a video platform 111, a TV gateway 121, a TV cloud 131, a TV receiver 141, and a mobile terminal 109. Other video platforms, TV clouds, TV receivers, and mobile terminals also perform similar operations.

[0072] SVOD is a service that allows viewers to watch unlimited video content for a fixed monthly fee, while TVOD allows viewers to watch paid video content for a limited period by purchasing individual videos. Meanwhile, AVOD, which is distributed through linear channels, allows viewers to watch videos freely, but also includes advertisements. As described above, depending on the VOD format, viewers' viewing conditions vary, so the video distribution system needs to confirm these conditions before presenting the video content to the viewer.

[0073] exist Figure 4 In the example, the ID identifying the video platform 111 is denoted by PF-ID, the ID identifying the TV gateway 121 is denoted by TG-ID, the ID identifying the TV cloud is denoted by TC-ID, the ID identifying both the TV and the TV cloud is denoted by HA-ID, and the ID identifying both the user of the mobile terminal 109 and the video platform 111 is denoted by MA-ID. Furthermore, the ID identifying the video content being viewed is denoted by CT-ID. The following describes video content used for VOD viewing.

[0074] In the TV receiver 141, a VOD viewing request is made. The TV receiver 141 uses signal 201 to (1) simultaneously send a VOD token request and the VOD content identified by the CT-ID, the PF-ID that identifies the video platform 111 that provides the dynamic image content, and the HA-ID representing the TV receiver itself to the TV cloud 131. The VOD token request is an instruction to confirm the right to watch VOD. The TV cloud 131 sends a signal 202 to the TV gateway 121 based on the obtained signal 201. (2) Signal 202 includes the VOD token request, PF-ID, CT-ID, and HA-ID. The TV gateway 121 obtains the MA-ID combined with the HA-ID from its own MA-ID and HA-ID combination information database and identifies the viewer who is requesting to watch. The TV gateway 121 sends a signal 203 to the video platform 111. (3) Signal 203 consists of the VOD token request CT-ID and MA-ID.

[0075] Next, the video platform 111 receives the VOD token request (3) using signal 203, queries the subscription database 191 for the MA-ID and CT-ID (4) using signal 204, confirms the login conditions of the viewer with the MA-ID, and reports the result to the video platform 111 (5) using signal 205. If the conditions for VOD viewing are met, the video platform 111 issues a VOD token (6) using signal 206 and sends the CT-ID and MA-ID together with the VOD token to the TV gateway 121. The TV gateway 121 receives signal 206. The TV gateway 121 sends signal 207 to the TV cloud 131. (7) Signal 207 includes at least the VOD token. The TV cloud 131 sends the VOD token (8) received from the TV gateway 121 to the TV receiver 141 using signal 208.

[0076] The television receiver 141 sends a signal 209 to the video platform. Signal 209 consists of the VOD token (9) acquired via signal 208 and the CT-ID identifying the dynamic image content. The video platform 111 determines the URL representing the location of the dynamic image based on the acquired CT-ID and verifies the legitimacy of the VOD token. After confirming that the VOD token is valid, the video platform 111 distributes the dynamic image stream to the television receiver 141 (10) using signal 210.

[0077] The above dynamic images are used to control whether or not the VOD content that meets the VOD viewing conditions can be viewed.

[0078] Next, the data constituting the program guide in this embodiment will be described. Figure 5 This figure illustrates an example of program list configuration information (program list viewing information), which is data constituting a program list. In this embodiment, program list configuration information 301 is transmitted by the video platform 111 and transmitted to the television receiver 141 via the television gateway 121 and the television cloud 131 .

[0079] Here, program listing configuration information 301 is composed of company information 302 identified by PF-ID, channel information 303 identified by Service_id, program information 304 identified by Event_id, commercial information 305 identified by CM_id, and VOD information 306 identified by Vod_id. It also includes a schedule 311 indicating the program's position on the timeline, and layout information 321 indicating the display position of advertisements.

[0080] The company information 302 includes a company ID (PF-ID), a company name, a company thumbnail image, and a logo.

[0081] The channel information 303 includes a service ID (Service_id), a service name, a service description, a genre (Genre), a parent (parental), a service thumbnail image, a logo, paid / free information, and a dynamic image URL (all programs included in the channel are distributed in the same way).

[0082] The program information 304 includes the program ID (Event_id), program name, program description, start date, start time, program length, genre (Genre), parent, program thumbnail image, video URL, program type, sub-video URL, paid / free information, and series identification information.

[0083] The CM information 305 includes an advertisement ID (CM_id), a CM title, an advertisement identifier (AD-ID), a start date, a start time, a CM length, a genre (Genre), a replacement flag, and a CM moving image.

[0084] The VOD information 306 includes VODID (Vod_id), content name, content identifier (CT-ID), content description, content length, genre (Genre), parental information, program thumbnail image, video URL, paid / free information, and series identification information.

[0085] Figure 6 This figure explains an example of a program list constructed using program list construction information. The video platform 111 supplies the program list construction information to the TV gateway 121. The TV gateway 121 distributes the program list construction information obtained from the video platform 111 to the TV cloud 131.

[0086] The program schedule information in TV Cloud 131 includes past program schedule information already distributed from TV Gateway 121, as well as upcoming scheduled program schedule information. This allows viewers to watch missed programs later, improving the convenience of program selection for viewers. TV Cloud 131 transmits this past and future program schedule to TV Receiver 141.

[0087] When creating a past program list on the television receiver 141, the company information 402 in the program list configuration information identifies the video platform on which the channel is created. For example, the program list is displayed by channel information 403, and the arrangement and description of each program are created using program information 404 to 406. The timeline of the program list is displayed using schedule information 407. These are programs that have been released in the past and can be freely selected.

[0088] Furthermore, this program table displays an overview of VOD content. This selection displays the VOD information included in the program table's configuration information. Each piece of VOD information contains a CT-ID indicating the content. Once stored in the VOD information database 432, the recommendation selection unit 431 selects the VOD content and displays it on the program table. VOD content can be freely selected, similar to programs broadcast in the past, thus providing viewers with a comfortable program selection function. While the past program table may not be the latest content for viewers, it is free of time constraints, providing the convenience of free selection. In this embodiment, while the VOD content display is configured only in the past program table, the same data and actions can be used to configure it in the current and future program table.

[0089] exist Figure 6 In the past, current, and future program listings, programs provided by the video platform are displayed as channels. In this figure, channels A1 and A2 are channels provided by video platform A, and channel B1 is a channel provided by video platform B. VOD content 1 to 4 displayed in each program listing can select and display VOD information provided by the video platform that distributes the program content focused on by the viewer using a remote control, etc. In other words, when the viewer focuses on content A11 using a remote control, the VOD provided by the video platform is displayed on the program listing screen.

[0090] On the other hand, in the television receiver 141, the current program list 411 is constructed based on the currently released programs in the current program list construction information. Furthermore, the future program list shows the programs scheduled to be released using the company information 422, channel information 423, program information 425-426, and schedule 427 included in the future program list construction information.

[0091] Figure 7 This diagram shows an example of the sequence for playing moving images from the program list. On a television receiver 141, pressing the program list button on the remote control first displays the current program list 511. Selecting a program from the current program list 511 allows the playing of moving image content 512. Programs can be switched by inputting the up and down keys or the channel number on the remote control, and other programs 513 can be directly selected. Furthermore, even while viewing a program, pressing the program list button allows the user to return to the previous current program list 514.

[0092] On the other hand, by pressing the scroll down button in the current program list 511, the future program list 521 is displayed. If a program is selected from the future program list 521, since it has not yet been released, a program description screen 522 is displayed. If the preview animation can be played, a preview button is displayed, and pressing it plays the preview animation 523. When the preview animation ends, the screen returns to the future program list 524.

[0093] By scrolling up from the current program list 511, the past program list 501 is displayed. In the past program list 501, programs and VOD contents released in the past are displayed. When VOD contents are selected, the program moves to the VOD selection sequence 505. Figure 8 illustrate.

[0094] When a program is selected from the past program list 501, a program description screen 502 is temporarily displayed. If a summary of the past program is available, a summary button is displayed. Clicking the summary button plays the summary 506. Pressing the view button on the program description screen 502 plays the video content of the past program. When the view ends, the screen returns to the past program list 504. Playing summary videos makes content selection more convenient.

[0095] As described above, by viewing the preview dynamic images expected to be released in the future program list and viewing the summary in the past program list, the convenience of viewing the program can be improved. In addition, since the past program list is displayed as a display that allows VOD selection, the desired VOD content can be viewed.

[0096] Figure 8 This figure shows an example of the order of viewing VOD from the program list. On television receiver 141, pressing the program list button on the remote control displays the current program list 611. Selecting a program from current program list 611 causes program 612 to be played. An advertisement dynamic image 613 is inserted midway through or at the end of the main dynamic image of program 612, and a VOD button is displayed along with the advertisement dynamic image 613. Pressing the VOD button displays a VOD instruction screen 614. If VOD is an SVOD-based service, instruction screen 614 displays; if it is a TVOD-based service, instruction screen 621 displays. Instruction screen 614 displays a watch button, while instruction screen 621 displays a purchase button and the amount.

[0097] Here, pressing the VOD viewing button creates three branches. In the first branch, if the viewer has not registered for a monthly fixed-fee membership, the user is directed to the membership registration screen 615. On the smartphone, the membership registration application 625 is activated, and membership registration is completed. Furthermore, the user is directed to the ID binding screen 616, where a QR code (registered trademark) is displayed on the TV screen. The ID binding application 626, which runs on the smartphone, combines the TV receiver's HA-ID with the member's MA-ID.

[0098] In the second branch, if member registration is complete on the instruction screen 614, the user proceeds to the ID binding screen 616. If ID binding is complete, the user proceeds again to the SVOD instruction screen 617, where the VOD video 618 is played by pressing the watch button. For TVOD, the TVOD instruction screen 627 is displayed, and the user pays the specified purchase amount before proceeding to the video viewing 618. Once the VOD video playback is complete, the user returns to the main video 619.

[0099] In the third branch, when the ID binding has been completed, by pressing the watch button on the SVOD explanation screen 614 , the process directly proceeds to the VOD moving image playback 618 .

[0100] On the other hand, if VOD content in the past program list 601 is selected, the screen advances to the SVOD explanation screen 614 or the TVOD explanation screen 621. Thereafter, the video 618 is played in the same order, and when finished, the screen returns to the past program list 629.

[0101] Through the above sequence, it is easy to watch VOD. In addition, in order to achieve the above viewing sequence, Figure 4 When selecting "Watch" from the instruction screen 614, the sequence for obtaining a VOD token is followed. If VOD token acquisition fails, the user is directed to the member login screen 615 or the ID binding screen 616. After ID binding is complete, the user can press the "Watch" button again from the SVOD instruction screen 617 to obtain a VOD token again. After obtaining the VOD token, the main movie 619 is played.

[0102] Figure 9 There are three types of advertisement display modes: instream insertion display 701, overlay display 711, and clickable VOD 721.

[0103] The first mode of interstitial insertion is to play a pre-main feature 702 followed by a commercial 703, followed by a post-main feature 704. On the screen, a main feature dynamic image 705 is displayed, followed by a commercial dynamic image 706, and then a main feature dynamic image 707. This mode is an example of inserting commercial dynamic image content into so-called dynamic image content.

[0104] The second overlay display mode superimposes advertisements on the main moving image. Unlike interstitial insertion, which involves temporal insertion and thus a longer duration, overlay display directly superimposes advertisements on the main moving image, thus maintaining the standard length of the moving image content. While the main moving image 712 is playing, advertisements are superimposed on moving image screen 715, transitioning to moving image screen 716 and then to moving image screen 717. The superimposed advertisements are automatically removed and the program transitions to moving image screen 717, thanks to information included in the advertisement information that automatically indicates the program. In this display method, while no temporal insertion occurs, a portion of the screen is hidden.

[0105] The third mode is clickable VOD 721, a combination of interstitial display 701 and overlay display 711. Similar to interstitial, a commercial 723 plays from the main moving image 722, followed by the main moving image 724. At this point, the state transitions from moving image screen 725 to the commercial moving image screen 723 and then to moving image screen 726. A button is displayed within the commercial moving image content. Pressing it displays an explanation screen 728, and further pressing the watch button plays VOD content 729. If no button is pressed on commercial screen 726, the main moving image 724 plays after the commercial 723 ends. When VOD content 729 ends, moving image content 730 from the same channel plays.

[0106] In each case, the status of the program list composition information is represented as 741, 742, and 743. In the case of inserting, the program list composition information 741 is composed of company information, channel information, program information, and advertisement information. The same is true in the case of overlay display. In the case of clickable VOD, VOD information is further included in the advertisement information. In the case of overlay display and clickable VOD, according to Figure 10 The screen is constructed based on the layout information shown.

[0107] Figure 10This figure illustrates the layout information for advertisements. When displaying an overlay display screen 802 from the main moving image 801, the screen is constructed based on the layout information 805 included in the program listing configuration information. Layout information 805 includes information on video coordinates and size, as well as still image coordinates and size, enabling the creation of an L-shaped display 802 or an overlapping rectangular area display 803. Furthermore, when automatically displaying an overlay, the overlay is automatically executed based on the automatic start flag and start time in the commercial information, which are included in the program listing configuration information.

[0108] In this example, two modes are shown as clickable. The first mode is clickable advertising, which can display other EC websites and information after pressing the button. The second mode is clickable VOD, which can be used Figure 9 are shown in the order shown.

[0109] In the case of clickable VOD, an advertisement dynamic image 842 is played from the main content dynamic image screen 801. By pressing a button 842 displayed within the advertisement dynamic image 842, the screen transitions to the VOD explanation screen 823. Here, pressing the watch button plays the VOD dynamic image 824. The display position of button 842 within the advertisement dynamic image 822 is determined by layout information 825. The watch button on the VOD explanation screen 823 is also positioned according to the layout information.

[0110] In the case of a clickable advertisement, a button 841 is displayed in the advertisement dynamic image 812 based on the layout information 815. When the button 841 is pressed, the product screen 813 of the EC website is displayed. Here, for example, a detailed information screen can also be displayed.

[0111] As described above, it is possible to perform flexible screen configuration based on the layout information included in the program guide configuration information.

[0112] Figure 11 This figure shows an example application of displaying advertisements in current programs using program listing information. Current program listings 901 display the content currently being released. Program listing information 900 includes company information 902 and channel information 903. Channel information 903 includes program information 904, 906, and 908. Program information 904 includes advertisement information 905, program information 906 includes advertisement information 907, and program information 908 includes advertisement information 909. Furthermore, advertisement information 909 includes VOD information 910.

[0113] The program start time and the program end time are recorded in each program information, and the advertisement start time and the advertisement end time are also recorded in the advertisement information.

[0114] The program list is constructed based on the above information included in the program list construction information, and the main movie and advertisements 921 to 927 are played.

[0115] Program information 904 lists the program start time at 8:00 and end time at 9:00. Furthermore, the commercial information lists the start time at 8:30 and end time at 8:35. The main moving picture begins at 8:00, and the commercial begins at 8:30. Furthermore, the main moving picture resumes at 8:35.

[0116] Next program 924 indicates the next program starting at 9:00 AM. Program information 906 lists the start time at 9:00 AM and the end time at 11:00 AM. Advertisement information 907 lists the start time at 10:00 AM and the end time at 10:05 AM, indicating that it will be displayed as an overlay. Based on this information, the main moving image 924 begins playing at 9:00 AM. During the main moving image, a static advertisement automatically appears at 10:00 AM. This displayed screen is shown as 934. The advertisement is displayed as a static image superimposed on the main moving image. The superimposed advertisement, or static image, disappears at 10:05 AM.

[0117] Furthermore, the next program information records the start time 11:00 and the end time 12:00, and the advertisement information records the start time 11:30 and the end time 11:40. This advertisement records instructions to jump to other screens by displaying buttons. According to this information, the next program 925 starts at 11:00. Advertisement 926 starts at 11:30, but as shown in advertisement screen 936, a button is displayed in this advertisement. When the viewer presses the button, the VOD sequence is entered, and a VOD selection screen 938 is displayed. Thereafter, according to Figure 8 The VOD sequence shown in FIG. 9 is performed. When the button is not pressed, the main dynamic image 927 is played, and as shown in the dynamic image screen 937, the advertisement disappears.

[0118] In this way, the program is composed according to the program table composition information, but the playback of the action stream is played according to the metadata (manifest file: manifest file) included in the dynamic image stream. Figure 11The figure shows how a video stream is played using MPEG DASH, an international standard. In MPEG DASH, MPD (Media Presentation Description) is used to play video streams. The MPD specifies the video stream using a period. For example, program 921 according to this embodiment is composed of MPD #1: 951, and video 921 is played. Advertisement 922 is played by Period #2: 942, and video 923 is played by Period #3: 943. Similarly, video 924 of the next program is played by Period #1: 944 of MPD #2: 952. Furthermore, video 925 of the following program is played by Period #1: 945 of MPD #3: 953. Advertisement 926 is played by Period #2: 946, and video 927 is played by Period #3: 947. In this example, one MPD is associated with each program, but different associations are possible depending on the application. For example, one MPD can be made to correspond to two or more programs and specified by multiple Periods.

[0119] Figure 12 This figure shows an example application of displaying advertisements in past programs using program listing information. The program listing information consists of company information 1002, channel information 1003, program information 1004, advertisement information 1005, and VOD information 1006. Based on this information, past program listings 1001 are displayed. Based on program information 1004 included in channel information 1003, moving images 1021, advertisements 1022, and moving images 1023 are played. Here, the program start time is shown as 8:00 and the end time is shown as 9:00. However, since these indicate past release times, programs can be freely selected.

[0120] When the moving image 1021 is selected, an explanation screen 1041 is temporarily displayed, and when the watch button is pressed, the main moving image 1021 is played. Furthermore, a commercial moving image 1032 is played, and when the commercial moving image ends, the main moving image screen 1033 is displayed.

[0121] exist Figure 12In the past program list, programs provided by the video platform are displayed as channels. In this figure, channel A1 and channel A2 are channels provided by video platform A, and channel B1 is a channel provided by video platform B. VOD contents 1 to 4 displayed in each program list can select and display VOD information provided by the video platform that is publishing the program content that the viewer has focused on with a remote control or the like. That is, when the viewer has focused on content A11 with a remote control or the like, the VOD provided by the video platform is displayed on the program list screen. In this embodiment, the VOD content display is configured only in the past program list, but it can be configured using the same data and actions in the current and future program lists.

[0122] On the other hand, if VOD is selected, a VOD video 1024 is played. Before the playback, a VOD explanation screen 1042 is displayed. If the watch button is pressed, the VOD video (VOD content 1) is played. At this point, the video screen changes to a VOD video screen 1034. When the VOD video ends, the screen returns to the past program list screen 1035.

[0123] Similar to the current program list, the relationship between the past program list and the playback of motion streams based on MPEG DASH is also explained. The main moving image 1021 is played by Period #1: 1051 of MPD #1: 1050. Advertisements 1022 are played by Period #2: 1052, and the main moving image 1023 is played by Period #3: 1053. Regarding VOD, VOD moving image 1024 is played by Period #1: 1054 of MPD #2: 1060. Similar to the current program list, it is also possible to operate based on the relationship between a single MPD and multiple programs.

[0124] Figure 13 This figure explains the periodic update of program list configuration information. The program list configuration information 1111 is updated regularly, for example, on a daily basis. The program list configuration information includes company information, channel information, program information, advertisement information, and VOD information.

[0125] The TV gateway 121 periodically (1) requests program list configuration information from the video platform 111 using signal 1101. The video platform 111 (2) sends the program list configuration information to the TV gateway 121 using signal 1102. After obtaining the updated program list configuration information, the TV gateway 121 sets the update flag 1121, which is normally OFF, to ON. The TV cloud 131 (3) periodically checks the update flag 1121 of the TV gateway 121 using signal 1103. If the update flag 1121 is ON, it (4) obtains the program list configuration information using signal 1104 and (5) distributes it to the TV receiver 141 using signal 1105. After the TV cloud 131 obtains the program list configuration information, the update flag 1121 immediately turns OFF. However, in the case of multiple TV clouds, the update flag 1121 is turned OFF after confirming that all TV clouds have obtained the program list configuration information. Furthermore, when acquiring the program list configuration information from the TV gateway 121 , in order to further ensure security, the information is encrypted using a key distributed in advance to the TV cloud 131 , thereby maintaining security.

[0126] Figure 14 This figure explains the update of emergency messages. Figure 5 As shown, program schedule information contains a large amount of information and includes thumbnail images, so it is updated on a relatively long cycle, such as daily. Therefore, it is difficult to cope with emergencies such as when a live program is extended and the program schedule must be changed. Therefore, an emergency message function is required to handle changes with the minimum necessary size. The format of the emergency message is shown as 1210.

[0127] <Emergency Message ID><Channel ID><Target Program ID><Target Item><Processing><Processing Details>

[0128] Here, since the <emergency message ID> is uniquely issued within the enterprise, it is composed of <enterprise ID+unique ID> and is represented by Emsg_id.

[0129] <Channel ID> is the Service_id that identifies each channel, and <Target Program ID> is the Event_id that identifies the program. <Target Item> is each item in the program information.

[0130] <Processing> includes deletion, overwriting (changing), and addition, and its specific content is defined as <Processing Content>.

[0131] For example, when changing the end time of a program that starts at 8:00 and ends at 9:00 to 9:30, <processing> change and <processing content> 9:30 are sent to the target program.

[0132] The video platform 111 (1) sends an emergency message to the TV gateway 121 using signal 1201. The TV gateway 121 turns on the emergency flag 1221, which is normally OFF. The TV cloud 131 (2) uses signal 1202 to confirm the emergency flag 1221. At this time, the TV cloud 131 confirms the emergency flag 1221 within a shorter period than the confirmation of the update flag 1121 described above. For example, the confirmation is performed within a period of 10 minutes to 30 minutes. The TV cloud 131 (3) obtains the emergency message using signal 1203. The TV cloud 131 distributes the obtained emergency message (4) to the TV receiver 141 using signal 1204. Here, the distribution of the emergency message is performed within a shorter period than the distribution of the program schedule configuration information. Therefore, in order to prevent the transmission from being concentrated, each TV receiver controls the reception time using a pre-set offset time to disperse the access.

[0133] Figure 15 This is a diagram of the structure of a television receiver 141. Broadcasts are received using an antenna 1501. The broadcast content, converted into a digital stream by a tuner 1502, is then converted into audio and video signals by a signal processing unit 1503. The audio signal is processed by an audio processing unit 1504 and played by a speaker 1506. The video signal is processed by a video processing unit 1505 and played by a video display unit 1507. The CPU 1509 is connected to a memory 1508 and a non-volatile memory 1510, and executes a control program to control the tuner 1502 and the signal processing unit 1503. Furthermore, user operations are input from a remote control 1513 to a receiving unit 1512 and into the control program. A communication interface 1511 receives dynamic image content and content selection screens distributed over the Internet and processes them within the control program of the CPU 1509.

[0134] Figure 6 The composition and Figure 7 The play order will be obtained via the communication interface 1511 Figure 5 The program table configuration information is accumulated in the memory 1508, and the CPU 1509 uses the software executed internally to cut the program information based on the current time to generate the current program table, the past program table, and the future program table.

[0135] Figure 16This is a diagram of the video platform 111. CPU 1602 is connected to memory 1601 and storage device 1603 to execute control programs. The operator controls operations using operation unit 1605. Communication interface 1604 is connected to the network to input and output dynamic image content, output past program schedule information, output future program schedule information, output current program schedule information, distribute dynamic images, and input and output content selection information. Furthermore, video processing unit 1606 encodes and encrypts the input dynamic image content to generate a stream for dynamic image distribution. As shown in this figure, video platform 111 can be called a server.

[0136] Figure 17 This is a diagram of the TV gateway 121. CPU 1702 is connected to memory 1701 and storage device 1703 to execute specified processing programs. Communication interface 1704 performs input and output from the video platform and to the TV cloud. It inputs past program schedule information, future program schedule information, and current program schedule information from the video platform, and outputs past program schedule information, future program schedule information, and current program schedule information to the TV cloud. Furthermore, the operator controls operations using operation unit 1705. As shown in this figure, TV gateway 121 can be called a server.

[0137] Figure 18 This is a diagram of the TV cloud 131. The program list configuration information output by the TV gateway is received by the communication interface 2004. The program list configuration information is converted into a specified format that can be displayed by the TV receiver by the software running on the CPU 2002 and the memory 2001, and is stored in the memory 2003. The operator controls the software using the operation unit 2005. The data stored in the memory 2003 is Figure 15 As shown in this figure, the TV cloud 131 can be called a server.

[0138] Below, using Figure 15 TV receiver 141, Figure 16 Video platform 111, Figure 17 TV Gateway 121, Figure 18 TV Cloud 131 to illustrate Figure 6 The structure of the program schedule shown.

[0139] Figure 16 The program table configuration information stored in the storage device 1603 of the video platform 111 is output by the communication interface 1604. Figure 17 The communication interface 1704 of the TV gateway 121 receives the program and temporarily stores it in the storage device 1703. The stored program table configuration information is output by the communication interface 1704 and is stored in the storage device 1703. Figure 18TV Cloud 131 is received. Figure 18 In the television cloud 131, the received program list configuration information is converted into a format that can be displayed on the television receiver 141. Here, the converted data format is, for example, HTML5 that can be displayed in a browser running on the television receiver 141.

[0140] The converted data is sent from the communication interface 2004 to Figure 15 The television receiver 141 outputs. Figure 15 In the television receiver 141, the communication interface 1511 is used to receive not only the dynamic image content but also the content selection screen. The content selection screen mentioned here is equivalent to Figure 6 The past program schedule, current program schedule, and future program schedule are shown.

[0141] Below, use Figure 15 Description of television receiver 141 Figure 6 The program schedule, Figure 7 The order of the program schedule. Figure 18 The program table configuration information converted into a displayable data format by the TV cloud 131 is received by the communication interface 1511. Here, the program table configuration information is sent over the information of the past week and the next week, and the information is displayed according to the current time. Figure 6 The current program, past program list, and future program list are shown. Here, the program list composition information sent is compared with the current time, and the part judged to be past information is divided and displayed as the past program list, and the part judged to be future information is divided and displayed as the future program list. If it is judged to be currently being released, it is displayed as the current program list. These display actions are performed by Figure 15 This is implemented by software running in the CPU 1509 shown.

[0142] exist Figure 7 The order of the program list is shown in . Figure 7 The past program list 501, current program list 511, and future program list 521 shown correspond to Figure 6 Shown are a past program list 401, a current program list 411, and a future program list 421. Figure 7 The action in Figure 15 The above-described embodiment is implemented by software running on the CPU 1509 of the television receiver 141 shown.

[0143] ·Composition of program schedule information

[0144] In the dynamic image distribution system composed of a TV gateway, based on corporate information, channel information, program information, and schedule, the "program schedule composition information" is constructed according to advertising information, VOD information, and layout information indicating the display position of the advertisement. This not only corresponds to AVOD achieved through linear distribution, but also to SVOD and TVOD.

[0145] A VOD selection screen is superimposed on the linearly distributed program list, and viewers can select and watch any of AVOD, SVOD, or TVOD content using the TV gateway sequence that confirms the viewer's contract terms.

[0146] Based on the program schedule information released in the past and the program schedule information expected to be released in the future, the current program and the past program are displayed seamlessly. The past program is played in summary form, and the future program is played in preview dynamic images.

[0147] How to display advertisements

[0148] Based on the advertisement information and layout information included in the above-mentioned "program schedule composition information", advertisements inserted temporally in the main dynamic image, advertisements displayed spatially superimposed on the main dynamic image, and advertisements realized by combining them are shown.

[0149] · Advertisements inserted at certain times can be displayed separately by pressing a button, or a service that allows viewing of VOD video content can be realized.

[0150] Methods for obtaining and modifying program schedule composition information

[0151] The "program list configuration information" is updated by regularly checking the update flag of the TV gateway.

[0152] The "program list configuration information" is modified based on an emergency message that is sent separately. The emergency message confirms the emergency flag within a relatively short period of time.

[0153] A television gateway, configured to connect between a video platform and a television set, is configured to provide dynamic image content from the video platform to the television set. The television gateway receives a video-on-demand token request including an ID identifying the video platform 111 of the television set, an ID identifying the dynamic image content to be viewed, and an ID also identifying the television cloud, sent from a television cloud configured between the television set and the television gateway. The gateway then sends an ID (hereinafter, CT-ID) identifying both the user of the mobile terminal and the video platform, and an ID (hereinafter, MAID) identifying the dynamic image content to be viewed, to the video platform. The video platform, assuming that conditions for VOD viewing are met based on the CT-ID and MA-ID, receives the video-on-demand token including the CT-ID and MA-ID, and, based on the result of receiving the video-on-demand token from the video platform, sends the video-on-demand token to the television cloud.

[0154] (Second embodiment)

[0155] A second embodiment of the present application will be described with reference to the drawings. This embodiment is a modification of the other embodiments described above, and therefore, the same reference numerals are used for the same parts as the other embodiments, and detailed descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0156] Figure 19 This figure explains an example of the operation up to ID binding in the dynamic image distribution system. Figure 4 Likewise, from Figure 3 The overall video distribution system shown is summarized as follows: a video platform 111, a TV gateway 121, a TV cloud 131, a TV receiver 141, and a mobile terminal 109. Other video platforms, TV clouds, TV receivers, and mobile terminals also perform similar operations.

[0157] In a first embodiment, using Figure 4 , describes an example of the operation of the dynamic image distribution system, but in this embodiment, mainly describes Figure 4 The preceding operations of the operations shown are the flow until the information is stored in the ID link information DB (database) 120 .

[0158] The ID combination information DB 120 is stored in a storage device such as a HDD (Hard Disk Drive) provided in the TV gateway 121 (or which can be referenced by the CPU 1702 of the TV gateway 121). Figure 20 、 Figure 21 The information is shown in table form.

[0159] Figure 201 is a diagram showing an example of information stored in the ID combination information DB 120 for identifying members and their rights. Figure 20 The table shown stores MA-IDs in association with HA-IDs, access tokens, refresh tokens, expiration dates, and user profiles. An access token authorizes access to TV Cloud 131. The expiration date is the expiration date of the access token, which expires after the expiration date. A refresh token is used to obtain a new access token and its expiration date.

[0160] Here, MA-ID is an ID that simultaneously identifies the user of the mobile terminal 109 and the video platform 111. Here, the mobile terminal 109 is, for example, a portable terminal device such as a smartphone owned by the user. HA-ID is an ID that simultaneously identifies the television receiver 141 and the TV cloud 131. Therefore, if a user has multiple playback devices (such as the television receiver 141), multiple HA-IDs may be associated with one MA-ID. In addition, for each HA-ID associated with the MA-ID, an access token, refresh token, expiration date, etc. are stored.

[0161] Figure 21 1 is a diagram showing an example of information for identifying a playback device (eg, a television receiver 141) stored in the ID combination information DB 120. More specifically, Figure 21 The table shown stores the MA-ID, access token, refresh token, expiration date, and other information in association with the HA-ID. The access token is a token that indicates permission to access the video platform 111. The expiration date is the expiration date of the access token, which expires after the expiration date. The refresh token is used to obtain a new access token and its expiration date.

[0162] Here, a user may utilize VOD services provided by multiple video platforms 111 through a single playback device (e.g., television receiver 141). In this case, multiple MA-IDs may be associated with a single HA-ID. Furthermore, an access token, refresh token, expiration date, and other information are stored for each MA-ID associated with the HA-ID.

[0163] Back to Figure 19 The signal transmission and reception until ID binding is described in chronological order. First, when the TV receiver 141 receives an operation requesting VOD viewing, such as by operating a remote controller, it uses signal 1901 to request a QR code (registered trademark) from the TV cloud 131 (1). Signal 1901 includes at least the HA-ID.

[0164] The TV cloud 131, having received the QR code request (1), transmits (2) information for displaying the QR code to the TV receiver 141 using signal 1902. The QR code in signal 1902 includes at least the PF-ID that identifies the video platform 111 providing the VOD content, and information indicating the HA-ID of the TV receiver itself. Upon receiving signal 1902, the TV receiver 141 displays the QR code on its screen.

[0165] Next, the mobile terminal 109 uses signal 1903 (3) to access the web based on the information obtained by capturing and decoding the QR code displayed on the screen of the television receiver 141. The access destination in this case is the television gateway 121. The television gateway 212, having received signal 1903, uses signal 1904 to request authentication to the video platform 111 (4) indicated by the PF-ID included in the QR code.

[0166] The video platform 111 receives the signal 1904 and performs ID login confirmation (5) using signals 1905 and 1906. In the ID login confirmation, the video platform 111 requests the user to log in via the mobile terminal 109.

[0167] Here, the display status and operation reception on the mobile terminal 109 side are supplemented. If the user requests VOD viewing with the remote control of the television receiver 141, a QR code is displayed on the screen of the television receiver 141. Therefore, the QR code is captured by the mobile terminal 109, and the web page guided by the QR code is displayed on the screen of the mobile terminal 109. The web page at this time is provided by the TV gateway 121, for example. In addition, the web page at this time includes, for example, an operation button, which is used to confirm whether the user's login operation required on the next screen is permitted. If the user operates the operation button, a screen for the user to enter the ID and password specified in the VOD viewing contract is displayed on the mobile terminal 109. The screen for entering the ID and password at this time is provided by the video platform 111. The video platform 111 receives the user's ID and password input through this screen and completes (5) ID login confirmation based on signals 1905 to 1906.

[0168] Return to use Figure 19 The video platform 111 sends the user's ID and password to the subscription database 191 using signal 1905. If the user's ID and password are valid in the VOD viewing contract, the subscription database 191 sends the MA-ID to the video platform 111 using signal 1906.

[0169] The video platform 111, having completed the ID registration confirmation (5) and obtained the MA-ID, sends a response to the TV gateway 121 using signal 1907 (6). At this point, the TV gateway 121 recognizes that the user is contracted to watch VOD on the video platform 111.

[0170] The TV gateway 121 that has received the response (6) then sends a token request using signal 1908 (7) to the video platform 111. The video platform 111 that has received the token request (7) sends a VPF token response to the TV gateway 121 using signal 1909 (8).

[0171] The TV gateway 121 that has received the VPF token response (8) then sends a token request using signal 1910 (9) to the TV cloud 131. The TV cloud 131 that has received the token request (9) sends a TVC token response to the TV gateway 121 using signal 1911 (10).

[0172] The TV gateway 121, which receives the TVC token response (10), then sends a profile request (Profile request) to the video platform 111 using signal 1912 (11). The video platform 111, which receives the profile request, sends the profile and MA-ID to the TV gateway 121 using signal 1913 (12).

[0173] The TV gateway 121, having received the configuration file and MA-ID (12), then sends a configuration file request to the TV cloud 131 using signal 1914 (13). The TV cloud 131, having received the configuration file request, sends (14) the configuration file and HA-ID using signal 1915.

[0174] Through the process so far, the TV gateway 121 obtains the MA-ID and HA-ID associated with the user's profile. Next, the TV gateway 121 performs (15) ID binding, so that the ID combination information DB 120 stores the combination information of the MA-ID and HA-ID (for example, in Figure 20 and Figure 21 (information exemplified in tabular form in the text).

[0175] Thus, according to this embodiment, when viewing a VOD program for the first time on a certain playback device (television receiver 141), input operations can be performed on the mobile terminal 109. The mobile terminal 109 is, for example, a smartphone, which is a terminal that facilitates text input. Therefore, according to this embodiment, the task of entering an ID or password, which previously required a remote control, can now be performed using the mobile terminal 109, significantly reducing the complexity of the input operation.

[0176] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the ID and password required to log in to the video platform 111 do not need to be managed by the TV receiver 141 or the TV cloud 131. As long as the token is valid, the TV receiver 141 can connect to the video platform 111. Specifically, the ID and password, which should be kept confidential, are managed only by the video platform 111, eliminating the risk of leakage from other devices (TV gateway 121, TV cloud 131, and TV receiver 141).

[0177] Figure 22 This figure explains the signal flow related to ID provision in the TV gateway 121. This figure shows the signal flow when a user with a certain VOD viewing contract uses a certain playback device for the second or subsequent VOD viewing.

[0178] The TV gateway 121 has a combination information reference unit 1706, which is a functional unit implemented by the CPU 1702 executing a prescribed program. If the communication I / F (Interface) 1704 receives the MA-ID from the video platform 111, the combination information reference unit 1706 refers to the ID combination information DB 120, obtains the HA-ID corresponding to the MA-ID, and sends it to the TV cloud 131. In addition, if the communication I / F (Interface) 1704 receives the HA-ID from the TV cloud 131, the combination information reference unit 1706 refers to the ID combination information DB 120, obtains the MA-ID corresponding to the HA-ID, and sends it to the video platform 111. In more detail, the same as the method used in the first embodiment. Figure 4 The situation described is the same.

[0179] As a mechanism for displaying advertisements on screen at a specified time during program broadcasting (programs in which moving image content is distributed linearly) via a network, the video platform 111 sets the following information in the metadata of the program.

[0180] (1) Advertising ID:

[0181] The key of the metadata for the ad ID is set to ad_id. ad_id is a number that identifies the ad.

[0182] Each company is assigned a decimal number from 1 to 16, 777, or 214.

[0183] (2) Advertisement type:

[0184] The key of the metadata of the advertisement type is described as ad_type.

[0185] ad_type is a string identifying the ad type.

[0186] In the case of an interstitial advertisement, ad_type is described as "instream" after the key.

[0187] In the case of a still image, ad_type is described as "image" after the key.

[0188] When ad_type is Instream or Image, it will automatically start when the start time of the advertisement is reached.

[0189] In the case of a clickable static image, ad_type is described as clickable_image after the key.

[0190] When ad_type is described as clickable_image, a click button is displayed, and a still image is displayed by operating the button.

[0191] In the case of clickable video details, ad_type is described as clickable_video_details after the key. When ad_type is described as clickable_video_details, a click button is displayed, and the video details information is displayed by operating the button.

[0192] In the case of a banner advertisement, ad_type is described as "banner" after the key. If described as "banner", it is used as a banner advertisement in the program list (for example, the current program list).

[0193] (3) Advertising images:

[0194] The key of the metadata of the advertisement image is described as ad_information.

[0195] There are lower-level keys in the metadata keys of ad_information.

[0196] If the subordinate key of ad_information is img_url, and the ad type is a still image or a clickable still image, a string indicating the URL of the image is written after the key. In the case of a clickable still image, the transition occurs after the button is pressed.

[0197] When the lower key of ad_information is pos[x, y, w, h], a number indicating the display position of the still image is described.

[0198] (4) Video element display position:

[0199] The metadata key for the Video element display position is written as video_x_y_w_h. video_x_y_w_h has subordinate keys. The subordinate keys of video_x_y_w_h are written as pos[x, y, w, h]. pos[x, y, w, h] writes the numerical value representing the display position coordinates (x, y, w, h) of the video currently being played, displayed on the screen at the start time.

[0200] (5) Start time:

[0201] The metadata key for the start time is written as start_time. Following the start_time key is the offset time after the program starts when the commercial begins. For example, this is written as hh:mm:ss. For banner ads, start_time is not used.

[0202] (6) Length of the advertisement:

[0203] The metadata key is described as duration in the case of the length of the advertisement.

[0204] After Duration, describe the length of the ad. For example, it's written as hh:mm:ss. Duration is not used for banner ads.

[0205] (7) Video information for introduction

[0206] In the case of video information to be introduced, the key of metadata is described as vod_id.

[0207] Following vod_id is a value that identifies the video number assigned to each platform and links to the video information to be introduced. It is written as a decimal number ranging from 1 to 16, 777, or 214.

[0208] (8) Clickable buttons:

[0209] In the case of a clickable button, the metadata key is described as clickable_button.

[0210] In clickable_button have the following keys.

[0211] If the lower key of clickable_button is img_url, img_url is written after the clickable_button key. After the img_url key, if the advertisement type is clickable still image or clickable video details, a URL string indicating the location of the button image is written.

[0212] If the key under clickable_button is pos[x,y,w,h], pos[x,y,w,h] is written after the clickable_button key. The numerical value that becomes the display position of the clickable button is written after pos[x,y,w,h].

[0213] Based on the above, an example of transmitting metadata for inserting advertisements into video data linearly distributed from the video platform 111 is shown below.

[0214]

[0215] The video platform 111 transmits the key-based metadata described above to the television receiver 141. The metadata may be transmitted via the TV gateway 121 and the TV cloud 131 or directly.

[0216] On the TV 141 side, the following operations are performed according to the type of advertisement in the metadata.

[0217] In-stream advertising:

[0218] In the case of a commercial break, the television receiver 141 performs Figure 23 If ad_type is identified as instream in the metadata sent by the TV receiver 141, the TV receiver 141 displays the advertisement dynamic image included in the content and notifies the TV gateway 121 of the playback start, playback in progress, and playback completion information of the stream.

[0219] The ad image shows:

[0220] In the case of displaying advertisement pictures, the television receiver 141 Figure 24 If the TV receiver 141 recognizes that ad_type is image from the metadata and reaches the start time, it overlays the advertisement image (ad_Information_img_url) on the moving image. It then sends a log of the resulting advertisement image display, deletion, and operation to the TV gateway 121.

[0221] When the video element display position (video_x_y_w_h) is specified, the dynamic image is scaled and displayed over the advertisement image.

[0222] If Duration has passed since the start time, it is automatically deleted.

[0223] You can use the color keys on the TV remote control to delete.

[0224] In the case of displaying an advertisement image on an advertisement dynamic image, define the instream advertisement and the image advertisement separately.

[0225] Displaying an ad image from a clickable button:

[0226] Advertisement images displayed from clickable buttons are as follows Figure 25 Move like that.

[0227] When the television receiver 141 recognizes that ad_type is clickable_image based on metadata, as shown in FIG. Figure 25 As in A-1 of FIG, if the start time is reached, the clickable button image (clickable_button) is displayed at the specified position on the dynamic image, and the focus is aligned with the clickable button image. Figure 25 The log of advertisement picture display, deletion and operation is sent to TV gateway 121 as in A-2.

[0228] If the user presses the remote control's decision button (if clicked), then Figure 25 Like B-1, the result of advertising picture display, deletion, and operation log is sent to TV gateway 121. Then, Figure 25 As in B-3, the advertisement image (ad_Information.img_url) is overlaid and displayed. When the display position of the Video element (video_x_y_w_h) is specified, as in Figure 25 The dynamic image is scaled like the B-2 and the advertising image is overlaid and displayed.

[0229] After the advertisement image is overlaid and displayed, Figure 25 As in B-4, the resulting advertisement picture display, deletion, and operation log are sent to the TV gateway 121.

[0230] For ad_information.img_url, a file name is generated according to the following rules and then retrieved: If ad_information.img_url is https: / / xxxx / xxxx / image_$(TC-ID)_$(MODEL).png, and the TC-ID is aaaa and the TV model name is bbbb, it is replaced with https: / / xxxx / xxxx / image_aaaa_bbbb.png and notified to the TV gateway 121.

[0231] like Figure 25As in B-5 of FIG, if the advertisement display period has passed or the user has deleted the advertisement with the remote control, the display of the advertisement image is stopped and the dynamic image is displayed on the entire screen. Figure 25 As in B-6, the resulting advertising image display, deletion, and operation logs are sent to the TV gateway 121.

[0232] like Figure 25 As in C-1 of FIG, if the user does not operate during the advertisement display period (duration), the advertisement image is not displayed and the clickable button image is deleted. Figure 25 As in C-2, the resulting advertising image display, deletion, and operation logs are sent to the TV gateway 121.

[0233] From clickable buttons to VOD:

[0234] like Figure 26 That way you can go from a clickable button to a VOD guide.

[0235] When the television receiver 141 recognizes that ad_type is clickable_video_details based on metadata, if Figure 26 When the start time is reached as in A-1 of FIG, the clickable button image (clickable_button) is displayed at the designated position on the dynamic image, and the focus is aligned with the clickable button image. Figure 26 As in A-2, the resulting advertising image display, deletion, and operation logs are sent to the TV gateway 121.

[0236] If the user presses the remote control's decision button, Figure 26 The log of advertisement picture display, deletion and operation is sent to TV gateway 121 as in B-1. Then, Figure 26 Like B-2, stop linear channels and AVOD playback. Figure 26 As in B-3, the log of the advertisement picture display, deletion and operation of the aborted result is sent to the TV gateway 121. Figure 26 As in B-4 of FIG, the detailed screen of the video information (VOD-ID) introduced is displayed. Then, as Figure 26 As in B-5, the resulting VOD detailed information display log is sent to the TV gateway 121.

[0237] If the user does not take any action during the ad display period, Figure 26 Delete the clickable button image as in B-7. If the deletion process is completed, Figure 26As in B-8, the logs of advertisement picture display, deletion and operation are sent to TV gateway 121.

[0238] like Figure 26 As in B-6, after the VOD is played by the user's operation, if a clickable advertisement is displayed on the linear channel program and the process has been transitioned, the playback process is transitioned to the linear channel of the service_id stored in the last channel.

[0239] like Figure 26 As in B-9, when an advertisement is transferred from an AVOD advertisement displayed outside a linear channel, the program list of the service_id and event_id stored in the last channel is returned. If the event_id has exceeded the display period, the oldest event_id within the display period is displayed.

[0240] Banner ads display:

[0241] When displaying banner ads, the TV receiver 141 recognizes ad_type as banner based on metadata and displays a banner ad in the program list (e.g., the current program list). There are three types of ads: guidance to recommended VOD, point-of-sale collaboration using ID binding, and ad image display.

[0242] The TV gateway 121 manages the advertisement frames displayed on the current program list and can switch the displayed advertisements for each HA-ID.

[0243] Regarding which advertisement to display and how many, the PF-ID of the currently displayed program is used as a parameter and information is obtained from the TV gateway via the TV cloud. There are 0 or 3 advertisement frames. In the case of 3, 3 ad_ids are obtained. The network program list application obtains the corresponding ad_id from the CDN of the program list data. <ad-id>.json, and display the banner image.

[0244] If the user clicks on the banner, it is handled accordingly to its ad_type.

[0245] The banner image displayed on the current program list is obtained in the ad_id <ad-id>Use url to specify in .json.

[0246] [Note]

[0247] A dynamic image content distribution service includes a television gateway configured between a video platform and a television receiver and connected thereto, wherein the connection is used to provide dynamic image content from the video platform to the television receiver, wherein the dynamic image content distribution service is characterized in that:

[0248] The video platform transmits the advertisement type and advertisement start time together with program information data as information for displaying the advertisement on the screen at a specified time during the broadcast of the dynamic image content program.

[0249] The television receiver identifies the type of advertisement and displays an advertisement dynamic image or an advertisement image on the screen when it is time for the advertisement to start.

[0250] Industrial Applicability

[0251] In linear video content distribution, by including advertising information in the program listing information, advertisements can be displayed to users while they are watching the linearly distributed video content, guiding them to VOD. This can expand the range of program choices for viewers.

Claims

1. A dynamic image content publishing system, wherein: The dynamic image content distribution system includes a television gateway, which is configured between the video platform and the television receiver, and the television gateway is configured to provide the dynamic image content from the video platform to the television receiver, The television receiver is configured to: receive program schedule composition information from the video platform; wherein the program schedule composition information includes program information, advertisement information, and layout information indicating the display position of the advertisement; the program information includes program start time and program end time; the advertisement information includes advertisement type, advertisement start time, advertisement end time, video on demand information, the advertisement dynamic image or the advertisement image inserted in the middle of playing the dynamic image content of the program according to the advertisement start time and the advertisement end time, and a video on demand button displayed together with the advertisement dynamic image or the advertisement image according to the layout information and the video on demand information; the advertisement type is interstitial advertisement and overlay display advertisement; the video on demand button is associated with a subscription database, the subscription database stores contract conditions of users who watch dynamic image content released from the video platform, and the contract conditions of the users are confirmed through the subscription database; The advertisement type is identified, and if it is time for the advertisement to start, an advertisement dynamic image or an advertisement image is displayed on a display device of the television receiver.

2. The dynamic image content distribution system according to claim 1, wherein: The television receiver is configured to receive a selection of the video-on-demand button by the user and play the video-on-demand content according to the contract terms.

3. The dynamic image content distribution system according to claim 2, wherein: The television receiver is configured to be connected to a mobile terminal, The TV gateway also has a unit for storing information on the combination of the home agent ID and the mobile agent ID. The home agent ID is an ID for identifying the television receiver. The mobile agent ID is used to identify the ID of the user of the video platform and the mobile terminal. The subscription database is linked to the combined information storage unit, and the subscription database identifies the user based on the mobile agent ID and confirms the contract terms of the user.

4. A method for publishing dynamic image content, used in a dynamic image content publishing system, wherein: The dynamic image content distribution system includes a television gateway, which is configured between the video platform and the television receiver, and the television gateway is configured to provide the dynamic image content from the video platform to the television receiver, The television receiver is configured as follows: Receive program schedule composition information from the video platform; wherein the program schedule composition information includes program information, advertisement information, and layout information indicating the display position of the advertisement; the program information includes program start time and program end time; the advertisement information includes advertisement type, advertisement start time, advertisement end time, video on demand information, the advertisement dynamic image or the advertisement image inserted during the playback of the program's dynamic image content according to the advertisement start time and the advertisement end time, and a video on demand button displayed together with the advertisement dynamic image or the advertisement image according to the layout information and the video on demand information; the advertisement type is interstitial advertisement and overlay display advertisement; the video on demand button is associated with a subscription database, the subscription database stores contract conditions of users who watch dynamic image content released from the video platform, and the contract conditions of the users are confirmed through the subscription database; The advertisement type is identified, and if it is time for the advertisement to start, an advertisement dynamic image or an advertisement image is displayed on a display device of the television receiver.

Images