Method and system for playback control of multi-screen video

Abstract

This invention relates to a method and system for supporting playback control of multi-screen video. Specifically, this invention relates to a method and system for supporting playback control of multi-screen video content when an administrator (user) wishes to play back movie content or live content in a multi-screen cinema equipped with multiple projection surfaces.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a method and system for supporting playback control of multi-screen video. Specifically, this invention relates to a method and system for supporting playback control of multi-screen video content when an administrator (user) wishes to play back movie content or live content in a multi-screen cinema equipped with multiple projection surfaces. Background Technology

[0002] To enhance audience immersion and provide a more novel cinematic experience, cinemas equipped with multiple projection surfaces are being designed, and these so-called multi-screen cinemas are attracting the attention of many viewers.

[0003] Meanwhile, cinemas are not only replaying movies, but also attracting audiences by offering live streaming services of event footage.

[0004] With increasing interest in multi-screen cinemas and the diversification of content types that can be played back in such cinemas, the task of controlling the playback of multi-screen video content in these cinemas has become increasingly complex. While administrators managing these multi-screen cinemas are trained to handle control tasks, there is still a need to make the complex process of controlling the playback of multi-screen video content more intuitive and easier to manage.

[0005] In view of these problems, the present invention has been proposed with the aim of providing an environment that allows administrators (users) to easily control the playback of multi-screen video content. Summary of the Invention

[0006] Technical issues

[0007] Therefore, the purpose of this invention is to enable users (i.e., administrators) to easily control the playback of multi-screen video content in a multi-screen cinema equipped with multiple projection surfaces.

[0008] In particular, another objective of the present invention is to improve the quality of cinema services, which can lead to serious consequences in the event of operational errors, and to enhance user convenience by providing a user interface that can be intuitively understood and interacted with by the user.

[0009] Another object of the present invention is to enhance user convenience by providing a user interface for controlling the playback of live content.

[0010] Another objective of this invention is to provide users with a management interface that can be used to test the overall operational status of cinema servers and internal equipment in a cinema.

[0011] Furthermore, the objectives of the present invention are not limited to those described above, and other objectives not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art based on the following description.

[0012] Solution to the problem

[0013] To address the aforementioned problems, embodiments of the present invention provide a method for supporting playback control of multi-screen video by a cinema server in a multi-screen cinema comprising multiple projection surfaces. The method includes providing a user with a first interface for multi-screen video playback control, wherein the first interface may include: a title area for displaying the title of the multi-screen video content currently playing or scheduled for playback; a projection device control area for controlling multiple projection devices provided in the multi-screen cinema; a content area for displaying at least one piece of content that can be played back in the multi-screen cinema; and a server control area for allowing control of at least one server connected to the cinema server.

[0014] Furthermore, according to the method for playback control to support multi-screen video, the projection device control area may include: a display indicating the main projection surface and multiple sub-projection surfaces; and a display indicating the seating arrangement in a multi-screen cinema.

[0015] Furthermore, according to the method for supporting playback control of multi-screen video, the multi-screen video content displayed by the cinema server can be played back in prompt playback mode or manual playback mode.

[0016] Additionally, the method for supporting playback control of multi-screen video may include: if the multi-screen video content is played back by the cinema server in manual playback mode, a step of receiving input from the user to start creating new content through a first interface; a step of setting playback options for the main projection surface in the multi-screen cinema; a step of setting the content to be projected onto the sub-projection surfaces in the multi-screen cinema; and a step of creating new content.

[0017] Another embodiment of the present invention provides a method for supporting playback control of live video content by a cinema server in a multi-screen cinema including multiple projection surfaces. The method includes the step of providing a user with a second interface for playback control of the live video content, wherein the second interface may include: a video monitoring area for monitoring the live video content; a log information area for displaying relevant logs when playing back the live video content in the multi-screen cinema; and a live video content path input area for inputting the live video content path.

[0018] In addition, according to the method for supporting playback control of live video content, the second interface may also include an additional video monitoring area for monitoring whether the live video content is being output normally on multiple projection surfaces within the multi-screen cinema.

[0019] Furthermore, according to the method for supporting playback control of live content video, the live content video can be obtained from live content video data received by the cinema server from any content server, and the live content video data can be a composite video composed of multiple videos corresponding to each projection surface in the multi-screen cinema.

[0020] Additionally, according to the method for supporting playback control of live video content, the second interface may also include an image area for displaying specific images that are output separately from the live video content within a multi-screen cinema.

[0021] Furthermore, according to the method for playback control of live video content, a specific image may be an advertising image or a notification image output on a specific projection surface within a multi-screen cinema or in an area outside the projection surface.

[0022] Furthermore, according to the method for supporting playback control of live video content, the second interface may also include an image path input area for inputting the path of a specific image.

[0023] In addition, according to the method used to support playback control of live video content, the live video content displayed by the cinema server can be played back in any of the following modes: automatic playback mode, prompt playback mode, or manual playback mode.

[0024] Additionally, the method for supporting playback control of live video content may also include: if the live video content is played back by the cinema server in manual playback mode, a step of starting input from the user receiving the live content through a second interface; and a step of setting the path of the live video content to be played back in the multi-screen cinema.

[0025] Another embodiment of the present invention provides a cinema server for supporting playback control of multi-screen video. The cinema server includes a central processing unit and a memory, wherein the central processing unit can execute instructions stored in the memory to perform a method for supporting playback control of multi-screen video. The method for supporting playback control of multi-screen video may include the step of providing a user with a first interface for multi-screen video playback control. The first interface may include: a title area for displaying the title of multi-screen video content currently playing or scheduled for playback; a projection device control area for controlling multiple projection devices provided in the multi-screen cinema; a content area for displaying at least one piece of content that can be played back in the multi-screen cinema; and a server control area for allowing control of at least one server connected to the cinema server.

[0026] Another embodiment of the present invention provides a cinema server for supporting playback control of live video content. The cinema server includes a central processing unit and a memory. The central processing unit can execute instructions stored in the memory to perform a method for supporting playback control of live video content. The method may include the step of providing a user with a second interface for playback control of live video content. The second interface may include: a video monitoring area for monitoring the live video content; a log information area for displaying relevant logs when the live video content is played back in a multi-screen cinema; and a live content path input area for inputting the live content path.

[0027] Beneficial effects

[0028] According to the present invention, playback control of multi-screen videos can be easily managed, which requires precise control and sequencing of complex equipment.

[0029] Furthermore, according to the present invention, errors or malfunctions that may occur during the user's control process can be reduced, thereby providing viewers with a high-quality cinema service.

[0030] Furthermore, the effects of the present invention are not limited to those described above, and those skilled in the art will clearly understand other technical effects not mentioned below based on the following description. Attached Figure Description

[0031] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the control environment in a multi-screen cinema that forms the background of the present invention.

[0032] Figure 2 An example of a first interface provided according to the present invention is shown.

[0033] Figure 3 The process performed during manual playback control of any content is shown.

[0034] Figure 4 This shows a sub-screen where you can add any content to the user interface.

[0035] Figure 5 An example of an interface for controlling the playback of live video content provided according to the present invention is shown.

[0036] Figure 6 The configuration of the live video data received by the cinema server is shown.

[0037] Figure 7 The manual playback mode for the live stream video is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0038] Details regarding the objects and technical features of the invention, as well as the resulting effects, will become clearer from the following detailed description based on the accompanying drawings. Preferred embodiments of the invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0039] The embodiments disclosed in this specification should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the descriptions in this specification (including the embodiments) have various applications. Therefore, any embodiments described in the detailed description of the invention are illustrative to better illustrate the invention and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention to these embodiments.

[0040] The functional blocks shown in the accompanying drawings and described below are merely examples of possible implementations. In other implementations, different functional blocks may be used without departing from the spirit and scope of the specific embodiments. Furthermore, although one or more functional blocks of the invention are shown as separate blocks, one or more functional blocks of the invention may be a combination of various hardware and software components performing the same function.

[0041] Furthermore, the term "including" certain components (which is an "open" term) refers only to the presence of the corresponding component and should not be construed as excluding the presence of additional components.

[0042] Additionally, if a particular component is referred to as "connected" or "linked" to another component, it should be understood that it can be directly connected or linked to another component, but there may be other components between them.

[0043] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a multi-screen environment that forms the background of the present invention. (Reference) Figure 1 Assuming the multi-screen environment mentioned in this invention is installed in a multi-screen cinema equipped with at least two projection surfaces, it preferably includes at least a central main projection surface 20 and a first sub-projection surface 22 and a second sub-projection surface 24 arranged on either side of the main projection surface. Furthermore, the multi-screen environment may include projection devices 200, 202, and 204 for projecting video onto each projection surface, and a cinema server 100 for controlling various equipment and devices within the cinema (including these projection devices).

[0044] As described above, the present invention relates to a method and system for supporting playback control of multi-screen video for a user. It should be understood that the method for supporting playback control of multi-screen video described in this specification can be performed by the cinema server 100. In particular, it should be understood that a context-appropriate interface can be provided to support the control tasks of a user (i.e., an administrator) controlling a multi-screen environment through the cinema server 100. Figure 1This illustration depicts a scenario where a cinema server 100 receives each piece of content from an external content provider (such as a movie content provider server S1 providing film content or a live content provider server L1 providing live content) and plays it back in a multi-screen environment. The invention aims to provide users with an intuitive user interface in this scenario to ensure the correct playback of movie or live content.

[0045] Furthermore, unless otherwise specified, it should be understood that the method for supporting playback control of multi-screen video is executed by the cinema server 100; however, it should be understood that this playback control support method may not necessarily be executed by a single server, but may also be executed by multiple related servers. As used herein, the term "system" is chosen to account for situations where multiple devices are required to implement the playback control support method. For ease of understanding of the invention, the following description will be based on the assumption that the entity executing the playback control support method is the cinema server; however, it should be understood that the cinema server may also be replaced by the system.

[0046] refer to Figure 1 The main components required to implement the playback control support method according to the present invention, particularly the cinema server 100 and projection devices 200, 202 and 204, will be described in more detail.

[0047] The cinema server 100 is a computing device that can be operated by a person responsible for managing or operating the cinema. It is connected to the main electronic equipment in the cinema via a network, thereby allowing control of each electronic device. According to the invention, the cinema server 100 can preferably be connected to one or more projection devices via a network, thereby allowing remote control of the projection devices when control commands are input via the cinema server 100. Furthermore, the cinema server 100 can provide a user interface to the cinema administrator (i.e., the user) for supporting playback control of the content. In this case, the cinema server 100 can provide these interfaces to the user via an output device (such as a monitor directly connected to the cinema server 100) or via a portable terminal (such as a smartphone connected to the cinema server 100 via a network).

[0048] For reference, assume that the cinema server 100 includes a central processing unit (CPU) and memory. In this case, the CPU may also be referred to as a controller, microcontroller, microprocessor, microcomputer, etc. Furthermore, the CPU can be implemented in hardware, firmware, software, or a combination thereof. When implemented in hardware, it can take the form of an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a digital signal processor (DSP), a digital signal processing device (DSPD), a programmable logic device (PLD), or a live programmable gate array (FPGA). When implemented in firmware or software, the firmware or software can be configured to include modules, processes, or functions that perform the aforementioned functions or operations. Additionally, the memory can be implemented using memory such as read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), flash memory, static RAM (SRAM), hard disk drive (HDD), or solid-state drive (SSD). There are no restrictions on the type of hardware required to implement the cinema server 100. For example, server computers, portable terminals (laptops, smartphones, etc.), desktop computers, etc., are representative examples of computing devices. Furthermore, in some cases, the cinema server 100 may be available in the form of a cloud server.

[0049] Next, projection devices 200, 202, and 204 refer to devices used for projecting video, also known as projectors. Multiple projection devices can be installed in a cinema, where each projection device is positioned to project video onto an opposing projection surface. The type of projection device 200 includes, but is not limited to, those implemented using CRT, LCD, and DLP technologies. In the case of multiple projection devices, at least some projection devices may be obtained from different manufacturers based on different principles, and each projection device 200 can be independently connected to the cinema server 100 via a network. If needed, the cinema server 100 can cluster several projection devices and control them as a single group; however, each of projection devices 200, 202, and 204 is connected to the cinema server 100 substantially independently. Furthermore, parameters related to content output can be adjusted within the projection devices. For example, brightness (the light source intensity of the projection device), contrast (difference between light and dark), color temperature, focus, zoom, or keystone correction can be adjusted.

[0050] As mentioned above, reference has been made Figure 1 An environment for performing multi-screen video playback control according to the present invention and the devices constituting such environment are discussed.

[0051] Figure 2 An example of a user interface (hereinafter referred to as the first interface) provided by a cinema server 100 to a user for multi-screen video playback control according to the present invention is shown.

[0052] refer to Figure 2 The first interface can be composed of various areas, specifically including a title area 101, a projection device control area 102 for controlling the projection device 200 installed in the multi-screen cinema, a content area 103 for displaying a list of multiple multi-screen video contents to be played back, and a server control area 104 for controlling the connection to one (or more) servers connected to the cinema server 100 via a network.

[0053] Title area 101 is the area that displays the title of the video content that is currently playing or scheduled to play.

[0054] The projection equipment control area 102 is an area that allows control of the power or shutter speed of projection equipment 200, 202, and 204. As shown, the projection equipment control area 102 can be displayed to allow users to visually understand the projection surfaces and projection equipment within the cinema. Specifically, the projection equipment control area 102 may include a main projection surface display 1021, a first sub-projection surface display 1022, a second sub-projection surface display 1023, and a seating area display 1024 to allow users to see the seating arrangement in the multi-screen cinema. Users can easily identify the structure of the multi-screen cinema by referring to the seating area display and the indicators on each projection surface. Furthermore, the projection equipment control area 102 may include a projection equipment power or shutter control display 1025 at the location where each projection equipment is installed, thereby allowing control of the corresponding projection equipment based on power or shutter control inputs received from the user. Additionally, the projection equipment control area 102 may include a power or shutter control display 1026 for all projection equipment, thereby allowing users to control all projection equipment 200, 202, and 204 using a single input.

[0055] Content area 103 is an area for displaying content that can be played back on the projection surfaces within a multi-screen cinema. When a user selects specific content, it allows access to an interface for checking detailed information about the content or for modifying configuration values ​​associated with that content. The content displayed in content area 103 can be video content or image content, and preferably, it can be multi-screen video content or multi-screen image content that can be played back across multiple projection surfaces. However, the content is not necessarily limited to the types described above and can include content displayed only on a single projection surface (hereinafter referred to as single-screen content for convenience). In some cases, the content displayed in content area 103 may include content played back only on sub-projection surfaces instead of the main projection surface. In particular, if the main content provided by an external content server (also referred to as a cinema server) is designed to be played back directly on the main projection surface, the user has no actual control over the main content and will therefore only be able to control the content played back on the sub-projection surfaces.

[0056] In the case of multi-screen content, as shown in the figure, information such as the content title, playback time, size, and the server or time slot allocated to the content can be displayed. In the case of single-screen content, in addition to the above information, it can also indicate on which projection surface the content can be displayed.

[0057] Simultaneously, the content displayed in content area 103 can be entered into playback start or playback standby mode based on user drag input. For example, if the user drags the first multi-screen video content from content area 103 to projection device control area 102, the first multi-screen video content can be set to immediate playback or standby for playback. Alternatively, if the user drags the second single-screen video or single-screen image content from content area 103 to a specific projection surface 1021 to 1023 within projection device control area 102, it can be set to immediate playback or standby for playback on the specific projection surface.

[0058] Content area 103 may also include a content management menu 1031, allowing functions such as creating new content, starting live content, and retrieving existing content. As will be mentioned again later, the content management menu 1031 can be used when a user (administrator) replays multi-screen video content in manual playback mode, and the content management menu 1031 can be configured not to be displayed when replaying content in automatic playback mode.

[0059] Server control area 104 is an area capable of controlling all types of servers connected to cinema server 100. This area can display a list of controllable servers and buttons for individual control (connection) of each server. Additionally, batch server control buttons may be present, allowing collective control of all connected servers.

[0060] At the same time, refer to Figure 2 The first interface may also include a display 105 that allows the user to check the current connection status of the cinema server 100. The connection status of the cinema server 100 may refer to the connection status between the cinema server 100 and an external content server, or the connection status between the cinema server 100 and devices within the cinema. As an example, when the cinema server 100 is linked to an external content server (specifically, an external content server providing content projected onto the main projection surface) and outputting content in real time, the "LIVE" indicator, indicated by reference numeral 105, can be displayed in bright text. This allows the user to perform cinema control tasks while aware that the cinema server 100 is currently projecting movie content in real time.

[0061] In addition, the first interface may also include a so-called projection area adjustment menu 106, which allows users to check and adjust how the video output by the projection device 200 is displayed on the projection surface in the cinema; in other words, whether the projection area is correctly displayed on the projection surface. When the user selects the projection area adjustment menu 106, the cinema server 100 may display another interface for checking and adjusting the projection area, allowing users to manually or automatically adjust the projection area through the interface.

[0062] In addition, the first interface may also include a so-called live content control menu 107, which allows control of playback functions dedicated to the live content when it is being played back in the cinema. When a user selects the live content control menu 107, the cinema server 100 can display a separate interface for the user. The interface provided to the user when selecting the live content control menu 107 will be described again with reference to another diagram discussed later.

[0063] Additionally, the first interface may include a playback control menu 108, which allows users to manipulate functions such as playback, stop, fast forward, rewind, and repeat of multi-screen video content. The playback control menu 108 may only be displayed on the first interface when the multi-screen video content is played back in manual playback mode; in automatic playback mode, the display of the playback control menu 108 may not be necessary and can be implemented as hidden.

[0064] As mentioned above, reference has been made Figure 2 The first interface of the cinema server 100 for controlling multi-screen video playback for users was discussed.

[0065] Meanwhile, the cinema server 100 can play back multi-screen videos, especially movie content, in two main modes: a prompt-to-play mode and a manual playback mode. The prompt-to-play mode refers to the process where the cinema server 100 connects to an external content server (cinema server) and receives a prompt signal from the content server to initiate playback. In the prompt-to-play mode, if the multi-screen video (especially the multi-screen video content to be played back on the sub-projection surface) is properly configured to play back via... Figure 2 If the first interface is in standby mode, the playback can proceed accordingly when a prompt signal is received from the content server.

[0066] Manual playback mode refers to the process where the user (i.e., the administrator) manually creates and plays back multi-screen video content. Users can refer to the above... Figure 2 The first interface described performs manual playback of multi-screen video content. For reference, Figure 2 The first interface shown illustrates how the display looks when playing back multi-screen video content in manual playback mode.

[0067] Figure 3 The process of a user manually playing a video on the cinema server 100 is illustrated. This process can be broadly divided into two parts: the process of creating new content and the process of playing back the created content. As used herein, the term "new content" preferably refers to multi-screen video content. The process of creating new content can also be understood as the process of creating a configuration file that stores the path values ​​and playback configuration values ​​of the content to be played. For example, this process involves generating a single configuration file that includes the path values ​​of the video to be projected onto a first sub-projection surface (left projection surface), the path values ​​of the video to be projected onto a second sub-projection surface (right projection surface), and multiple playback configuration values ​​to ensure that these videos are played back on the respective projection surfaces. References will follow below. Figure 3 The process of performing a manual screening will be discussed step by step.

[0068] Referring to the accompanying drawings, the execution of manual playback can begin with receiving input to start creating new content (S101). For example, step S101 can begin when the user selects [Create New Content] in the content management menu 1031 of the first interface.

[0069] After step S101, a step (S103) for setting playback options for the main projection surface can be performed. The playback options for the main projection surface may include options such as whether to play back content provided by an external content server (cinema server) or to have the cinema server 100 play back content independently, as well as playback options related to the main projection surface, including aspect ratio, resolution, shape of the projection area, brightness, and hue.

[0070] Following step S103, step S105 can be performed to set the content to be projected onto the sub-projection surfaces. This step can be performed by the user clicking on each sub-projection surface and entering the content to be projected. Figure 4 This is accomplished by using the path value of the video played back on the corresponding sub-projection surface in the interface shown. Figure 4 An example is shown where a user selects a specific sub-projection surface and enters the video to be played back on that surface, demonstrating the input of the video's path value. Furthermore, in Figure 4 The interface shown can simulate how the projection will appear in a real cinema when the video is input onto the sub-projection surface.

[0071] For reference, step S105 may also include the process of the user directly adding the projection surface. Although Figure 4 While not shown in the diagram, an edit menu can be provided to allow users to add sub-projection surfaces above, below, to the left, or to the right of the main projection surface. For example, an "Add Sub-Projection Surface" button could be displayed in the up, down, left, and right positions relative to the main projection surface, allowing the creation of the sub-projection surface when the user clicks on it. As another example, the edit menu could list various shapes of projection surfaces (such as rectangles, trapezoids, ellipses, etc.), and users could add sub-projection surfaces by clicking or dragging a projection surface of the desired shape from the menu to position it around the main projection surface. In this way, step S105 can provide a separate interface and edit menu allowing users to directly add and position sub-projection surfaces. After adding a sub-projection surface, the user can enter the path value of the video to be played back on the corresponding sub-projection surface.

[0072] On the other hand, when a specific video is set for the sub-projection surface in step S105, the cinema server 100 can configure playback configuration values ​​to ensure that the video is correctly output on the sub-projection surface. For example, when a specific video is input to the sub-projection surface, the cinema server 100 can perform basic alignment configuration values, such as top alignment and border alignment, and store the resulting configuration values ​​as playback configuration values. Additionally, in step S105, the cinema server 100 can generate and store multiple playback configuration values ​​for adding the video to the sub-projection surface.

[0073] Through steps S101 to S105, the user can create new content and then add it to content area 103. Finally, the user can select the content added to content area 103 to play back multi-screen video content across multiple projection surfaces (S107).

[0074] As mentioned above, reference has been made Figure 3 and Figure 4 The process of executing manual playback mode is discussed.

[0075] Figure 5 An example of the previously mentioned interface for controlling the playback of live video content (hereinafter referred to as the second interface for convenience) is shown. In the preceding explanation, it was noted that the cinema server 100 according to the present invention can not only play back movie content received from an external content server (cinema server), but also play back live content, such as live performances. When attempting to play back live content, the user is provided with… Figure 5 The second interface shown.

[0076] refer to Figure 5 The second interface typically includes a video monitoring area 201, a log information area 202, an image area 203, an image path input area 204, a live content path input area 205, and a playback control area 206 for controlling the playback of live content video.

[0077] Video monitoring area 201 is an area that displays the live video content itself received from an external source or the live video content projected within the cinema, allowing users to monitor it. In other words, video monitoring area 201 can be used as a means to verify whether the live video content received by cinema server 100 from an external source is received correctly without errors (first purpose). Alternatively, it can also be used as a means to confirm whether the live video content received from an external source is being correctly output on every projection surface within the cinema (second purpose). In some cases, both the video monitoring area for the first purpose and the video monitoring area for the second purpose can be displayed within the second interface.

[0078] Assuming a video monitoring area for the primary purpose is displayed, the video monitoring area 201 can be composed of multiple video areas depending on the number of screens that make up the live video content. The accompanying drawings show an embodiment consisting of a total of four video areas.

[0079] For reference, cinema server 100 receives video data from an external content server (e.g., a server that receives video footage captured directly from a live performance venue), divides the received video data into multiple videos corresponding to each projection surface, and displays them in a video monitoring area. The video data received from the external content server preferably has 4K resolution and can be a composite result of combining full HD resolution videos into one. Compared to full HD resolution, 4K resolution has four times the number of pixels, therefore up to four videos with full HD resolution can be combined into a single 4K video data set. Figure 6 As shown, three full HD videos can be generated into a single 4K video dataset. The cinema server 100 according to the present invention can receive data such as... Figure 6The 4K video data shown is divided into three videos and displayed in the video monitoring area. These three videos correspond to the projection surfaces (main projection surface and sub-projection surface) provided in the multi-screen cinema. For reference, while it is mentioned that the video data received from an external content server has 4K resolution and can include four split-screen full HD resolution videos, it should also be understood that the video data can be implemented with 8K resolution, including four split-screen 4K resolution videos. Alternatively, it can be implemented as including 960x540 resolution videos divided from full HD resolution video data.

[0080] As another example, the cinema server 100 can receive the aforementioned 4K video data from an external content server (first content server) and simultaneously receive video data from another external content server (second content server; for example, a server installed at the live performance venue) of video footage captured directly at the live performance venue, and use this data to play back multi-screen video content. In this case, the video monitoring area can display the 4K video (including multiple screens) received from the first content server in video area #4, and display multiple videos received from the second content server in video areas #1 to #3. For reference, the cinema server 100 can preferentially use the video received from the second content server for playback within the multi-screen cinema, while the video received from the first content server can be used when needed (e.g., when a data error occurs in any video received from the second content server) by extracting a specific screen area to replace the problematic video.

[0081] Refer again Figure 5 The second interface may include a log information area 202. Log information area 202 is an area that accumulates and displays relevant logs when playing back live video content in the cinema, and can display real-time logs related to the playback, such as internet speed, download stream, and downloaded segments.

[0082] The second interface may also include an image area 203. As used herein, the term "image" can refer to content output separately from the video content for purposes such as advertising or notification, in addition to the video content being played back within the multi-screen cinema. Such images can be displayed in the background area of ​​the video or on any other surface within the cinema while live video content is being played. Simultaneously, these images can be loaded into the cinema server 100 by the user directly setting an image path through the image path input area 204.

[0083] The second interface may also include a live content path input area 205, through which users can input the source of the live content video from which they can receive it, such as URL information.

[0084] Finally, the second interface may also include a playback control area 206, which users can manipulate for replaying live video content. This area may display buttons that allow users to start, stop, and pause the playback of the live video content.

[0085] As mentioned above, reference has been made Figure 5 A second interface for controlling the playback of live video content provided to users by the cinema server 100 is discussed.

[0086] Furthermore, it has been previously described that multi-screen videos (especially movie content) can be displayed by a cinema server in two modes: automatic playback mode and manual playback mode. In the case of live content videos (which can be considered a type of multi-video content), it can be played back in automatic loading playback mode, prompt playback mode, and manual playback mode.

[0087] Automatic loading and playback of live video content can be performed via a user's click, covering both the loading and playback of the live video content. For example, if a user clicks... Figure 2 The [Start Live Stream] option in the content management menu 1031 on the first interface can automatically replay the live stream content video according to preset configuration values. One of the preset configuration values ​​in the automatic playback mode is the live stream content path information, which is entered through area 205 of the second interface. In a preferred embodiment, instead of typing a specific value into the live stream content path input area, the user can select the [Auto Load] option to receive the live stream content video from the source according to preset values. In another example, if someone managing any content server (which automatically provides live stream content video) uploads the corresponding URL value, the URL value can be automatically obtained and set as the live stream content path information when the user managing the local multi-screen cinema selects the [Auto Load] option. In this way, in the automatic playback mode of the live stream content video, the user does not need to directly enter the URL value each time, because the live stream content path can be automatically set in the local cinema server 100.

[0088] The prompt playback mode for live video content refers to the process of replaying live video content in response to prompt signals received from an external content server (cinema server). Prompt signals received from the content server may include loading prompt signals for loading live video content, playback prompt signals for replaying live video content, and end prompt signals for stopping playback. Cinema server 100 can replay live video content in response to prompt signals received from the content server.

[0089] Manual playback mode refers to the process where users manually input the path to the live video content, the path to the image, etc., before playback.

[0090] Figure 7This illustrates the process of a cinema server 100 manually replaying live video content executed by a user.

[0091] Referring to the accompanying diagram, manual playback can begin from the input of receiving live content from the cinema server (S201). For example, step S201 can be initiated when the user selects [Start Live Stream] from the content management menu 1031.

[0092] Following step S201, step S203 (S203) can be performed to set the source (or path) of the live video content. In this step, the user can directly enter a specific URL value or use the separate URL search function provided by the cinema server 100 to search for and enter a URL value.

[0093] After step S203, an image input step (S205) can be performed, during which the user can input the path to an image that stores such as an advertising image or a notification image.

[0094] Following step S205, step (S207) can be performed, in which the live video content is displayed for video monitoring, followed by step (S209), in which the live video content is replayed in response to user input. Step S207 aims to... Figure 5 Multiple videos are displayed in the video monitoring area 201, and step S209 can be understood as the process by which the user controls the playback of the videos by clicking a button in the playback control area 206.

[0095] As mentioned above, reference has been made Figures 5 to 7 The second interface provided to users and the playback process when the cinema server 100 replays live video content are discussed.

[0096] Meanwhile, the cinema server 100 can not only perform the function of projecting or playing back multi-screen video content, but also the function of monitoring the entire projection or playback process. Notably, the cinema server 100 can also report logs generated by the cinema server 100 to a central server. The central server refers to the server device used to transmit data with each cinema server located in multiple local multi-screen cinemas and manage the corresponding local cinemas. Each cinema server in a local cinema can be designed to send log entries about any anomalies to the central server immediately or periodically. Upon receiving these log entries, the central server can notify the administrator which cinema is experiencing a problem, or inform the affected cinema how to respond to the problem. Furthermore, if a specific program on the cinema server 100 is abnormally terminated, especially the program responsible for playing back multi-screen video content (the program providing the aforementioned first and second interfaces), a report file can be created and stored in a specific path within the cinema server. This report file can be shared with the central server simultaneously during its creation and storage. The abnormal termination of content playback software on the cinema server is seriously detrimental to cinema operations. Therefore, it is necessary to cumulatively manage information about why such abnormal termination occurs and under what circumstances. In this regard, for the purpose of analyzing problems and protecting solutions, the cinema server 100 according to the present invention can be implemented to create and share report files as described above.

[0097] As described above, methods and systems for supporting playback control of multi-screen video have been discussed. However, the present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments and applications described above, and various modifications can be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit of the invention as claimed in the claims. These modifications should not be construed as departing from the technical spirit or scope of the invention.

Claims

1. A method for playback control of multi-screen video supported by a cinema server in a multi-screen cinema comprising multiple projection surfaces, the method comprising the step of providing a user with a first interface for multi-screen video playback control. in, The first interface includes: The title area is used to display the title of the multi-screen video content that is currently playing or scheduled to play; A projection device control area, wherein the projection device control area is used to control multiple projection devices provided in the multi-screen cinema; A content area, wherein the content area is used to display at least one piece of content that can be played back in the multi-screen cinema; and A server control area that allows control of at least one server connected to the cinema server.

2. The method for playback control of multi-screen video according to claim 1, wherein, The control area of ​​the projection device includes: A display indicating the main projection surface and multiple sub-projection surfaces; and A display indicating the seating arrangement in the multi-screen cinema.

3. The method for playback control of multi-screen video according to claim 1, wherein, The multi-screen video content displayed by the cinema server is played back in either prompt playback mode or manual playback mode.

4. The method for playback control of multi-screen video according to claim 3, the method further comprising: If the multi-screen video content is played back by the cinema server in manual playback mode, then The steps of receiving new content creation input from the user through the first interface; The steps for setting the playback option of the main projection surface within the multi-screen cinema; The steps for setting the content to be projected onto the sub-projection surface within the multi-screen cinema; as well as Steps to create new content.

5. A method for playback control of live video content supported by a cinema server in a multi-screen cinema comprising multiple projection surfaces, the method comprising the step of providing a user with a second interface for playback control of the live video content. in, The second interface includes: A video surveillance area, used to monitor live video content; A log information area, wherein the log information area is used to display relevant logs when the live video content is played back in the multi-screen cinema; and The live content path input area is used to input the live content path.

6. The method for playback control of live video content according to claim 5, wherein, The second interface may also include an additional video monitoring area, which is used to monitor whether the live video content is being output normally on the multiple projection surfaces within the multi-screen cinema.

7. The method for playback control of live video content according to claim 5, wherein, The live video content is obtained from live video content data received by the cinema server from any content server, and The live video content data is a composite video consisting of multiple videos corresponding to each projection surface within the multi-screen cinema.

8. The method for playback control of live video content according to claim 5, wherein, The second interface also includes an image area for displaying specific images that are output separately from the live content video within the multi-screen cinema.

9. The method for playback control of live video content according to claim 8, wherein, The specific image is an advertising image or a notification image, which is output on a specific projection surface within the multi-screen cinema or in an area outside the projection surface.

10. The method for playback control of live video content according to claim 8, wherein, The second interface also includes an image path input area, which is used to input the path of the specific image.

11. The method for playback control of live video content according to claim 5, wherein, The live video content displayed by the cinema server is played back in any of the following modes: automatic playback mode, prompt playback mode, or manual playback mode.

12. The method for playback control of live video content according to claim 11, the method further comprising: If the live video content is played back by the cinema server in manual playback mode, then The steps of receiving live content from the user through the second interface; as well as The step of setting the path to the live content video to be played back in the multi-screen cinema.

13. A cinema server for supporting playback control of multi-screen video, the cinema server comprising a central processing unit and a memory, in, The central processing unit executes instructions stored in the memory to perform a method for playback control supporting multi-screen video. The method for supporting playback control of multi-screen video includes the step of providing a first interface for multi-screen video playback control to the user. The first interface includes: The title area is used to display the title of the multi-screen video content that is currently playing or scheduled to play; A projection device control area, wherein the projection device control area is used to control multiple projection devices provided in the multi-screen cinema; A content area, wherein the content area is used to display at least one piece of content that can be played back in the multi-screen cinema; and A server control area that allows control of at least one server connected to the cinema server.

14. A cinema server for supporting playback control of live video content, the cinema server comprising a central processing unit and a memory. in, The central processing unit executes instructions stored in the memory to perform a method for supporting playback control of live video content. The method includes the step of providing a second interface to the user for controlling the playback of live video content. The second interface includes: A video surveillance area, used to monitor live video content; A log information area, wherein the log information area is used to display relevant logs when the live video content is played back in the multi-screen cinema; and The live content path input area is used to input the live content path.

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