Content distribution device, content distribution method, and content distribution program

Abstract

To provide techniques that can keep supporters motivated to continue supporting a distributor.SOLUTION: According to an embodiment, a content distribution device that distributes content to a plurality of viewer terminals comprises: a supporter information processing unit that acquires log information relating to a specific viewer associated with a specific distributor and aggregates behavior of the specific viewer based on the acquired log information; and a communication processing unit that transmits results of the aggregation by the supporter information processing unit to at least one of a distributor terminal of the specific distributor and the viewer terminal of the specific viewer.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a content distribution device, a content distribution method, and a content distribution program. [Background technology]

[0002] In recent years, content distribution via networks has become common. Content distribution services widely provide membership services and supporter services that enable viewers to support the activities of distributors or creators.

[0003] The membership service described in Non-Patent Document 1 provides a function for supporting creators, as well as a function for members to communicate with each other and a function for members to send messages to creators.

[0004] The supporter service described in Non-Patent Document 2 provides a function that allows creators to distribute special content only to supporters.

[0005] Patent document 1 describes that distributors can receive remuneration based on the amount charged by viewers, and that viewers can continue to support distributors by making periodic payments. [Prior art documents] [Non-patent literature]

[0006] [Non-Patent Document 1] “Youtube channel membership”, [online], [searched on September 15, 2022], Internet<https: / / www.youtube.com / intl / ja / join / > [Non-Patent Document 2] “pixiv FANBOX”, [online], [searched on September 15, 2022], Internet<https: / / www.fanbox.cc / > [Patent documents]

[0007] [Patent Document 1] JP 2020-171005 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0008] However, in membership services and supporter services, membership registrations and supporter registrations are periodically renewed, and when renewals occur, it is necessary to provide members and supporters with an incentive to continue their registration. Therefore, a function is needed to provide an incentive for supporters to continue supporting creators.

[0009] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above circumstances, and aims to provide a technique that enables supporters to maintain their motivation to continuously support a broadcaster. [Means for solving the problem]

[0010] A content distribution device according to a first aspect of the present invention that distributes content to multiple viewer terminals comprises a supporter information processing unit that acquires log information related to a specific viewer associated with a specific distributor and aggregates the behavior of the specific viewer based on the acquired log information, and a communication processing unit that transmits the aggregation results by the supporter information processing unit to at least one of the distributor terminal of the specific distributor and the viewer terminal of the specific viewer.

[0011] In the content distribution device according to the second aspect of the present invention, the specific viewer is a viewer who supports the specific distributor.

[0012] In the content distribution device according to the third aspect of the present invention, the communications processing unit receives comment information entered by the specific viewer, and transmits the comment information to a viewer terminal of the specific viewer for display together with the aggregation results.

[0013] In the content distribution device according to the fourth aspect of the present invention, the supporter information processing unit tally up the behavior of the specific viewer for each predetermined period.

[0014] In a content distribution device according to a fifth aspect of the present invention, the supporter information processing unit aggregates the behavior of specific viewers associated with each distributor and obtains a ranking of the distributors based on the aggregation results for each distributor, and the communication processing unit transmits the ranking results to the viewer terminals of the specific viewers associated with each distributor.

[0015] In a content distribution device according to a sixth aspect of the present invention, the supporter information processing unit determines whether the tally result has reached a predetermined value, and if the tally result has reached a predetermined value, updates the point information of at least one of the specific viewer and the distributor associated with the specific viewer.

[0016] A content distribution method for distributing content to multiple viewer terminals according to a seventh aspect of the present invention comprises the steps of acquiring log information related to a specific viewer associated with a specific distributor, aggregating the behavior of the specific viewer based on the acquired log information, and transmitting the aggregation result by the supporter information processing unit to at least one of the specific distributor and the viewer terminal of the specific viewer.

[0017] A content distribution program for distributing content to multiple viewer terminals according to an eighth aspect of the present invention causes a computer to function as a supporter information processing means that acquires log information related to a specific viewer associated with a specific distributor, and aggregates the behavior of the specific viewer based on the acquired log information, and a communication processing means that transmits the aggregation results by the supporter information processing means to at least one of the specific distributor and the viewer terminal of the specific viewer. Effect of the Invention

[0018] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a content distribution device, a content distribution method, and a content distribution program that enable a supporter to maintain the motivation to continuously support a distributor. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0019] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a content distribution system including a content distribution device according to the first embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a configuration of the content distribution device according to the first embodiment. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of a supporter page image displayed on a viewer terminal according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating another example of a supporter page image displayed on the viewer terminal of the first embodiment. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an information processing operation in the content distribution device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of a supporter page image displayed on a viewer terminal according to the second embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an information processing operation in the content distribution device according to the second embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of a supporter page image displayed on a viewer terminal according to the third embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an information processing operation in the content distribution device according to the third embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a supporter page image displayed on a viewer terminal according to the fourth embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an information processing operation in the content distribution device according to the fourth embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating another example of the information processing operation in the content distribution device according to the fourth embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0020] [First embodiment] A content distribution device, a content distribution method, and a content distribution program according to a first embodiment will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings.

[0021] (Configuration example) FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a content distribution system including a content distribution device according to an embodiment.

[0022] The content distribution system includes a content distribution device 1, a distributor terminal 2, and a viewer terminal 3. The content distribution device 1 can be communicatively connected to the distributor terminal 2 and the viewer terminal 3 via a network. Although three viewer terminals 3 are illustrated in FIG. 1, the number of viewer terminals 3 is not limited to the number illustrated. Although one distributor terminal 2 is illustrated in FIG. 1, the number of distributor terminals 2 may be multiple, and is not limited to the number illustrated. The content distribution device 1 is a server device that provides a content distribution service via a network. The content distribution device 1 is an electronic device including a computer having an information processing function. The content distribution device 1 distributes content data to a plurality of viewer terminals 3 based on content data received from a distributor terminal 2. The content data includes video content data and still image content data. In the following description, the content data is assumed to be video content data. The content data is also simply referred to as content. The video content may be live broadcast content or recorded video content. The content distribution device 1 is an example of an information processing device. An example of the configuration of the content distribution device 1 will be described later.

[0023] The content distribution device 1 manages information on multiple distributors and multiple viewers. The content distribution device 1 provides a supporter service. The supporter service is a service that allows multiple viewers to support a specific distributor selected from multiple distributors. A viewer who supports a specific distributor is also called a supporter. A supporter selects a specific distributor, registers as a supporter by paying a fee, etc., and supports the creative activities of the specific distributor. The supporter registration may be updated periodically. The supporter registration may be updated by paying a fee or by other methods. A supporter can become a supporter of at least one distributor among multiple distributors. A supporter can obtain identification information that individually identifies the supporter, such as a supporter number, by registering. A supporter can receive benefits from the target distributor. The benefits include, for example, the delivery of a supporter card unique to the target distributor. A supporter can communicate with a specific distributor or other supporters who support a specific distributor. The content distribution device 1 may transmit information on the supporter to the distributor terminal 2 of the target distributor every time a supporter registration is performed by a viewer. The content distribution device 1 may transmit information to the distributor terminal 2 of the target distributor to display information about the supporter on the content distribution screen. A supporter is also called a fan. The supporter service is a service for viewers to support a specific distributor, and is different from premium membership services in which viewers are charged to receive a specific service.

[0024] The distributor terminal 2 is an electronic device including a computer that can be connected to a content source such as a video camera. The distributor terminal 2 can be, for example, a television receiver (including an Internet television), a PC (Personal Computer), a mobile terminal (for example, a tablet, a smartphone, a laptop, a feature phone, a portable game console, a digital music player, an e-book reader, etc.), a VR (Virtual Reality) terminal, an AR (Augmented Reality) terminal, etc., but is not limited to these.

[0025] The distributor terminal 2, for example, has at least one processor and a memory in which a program executed by the processor is stored, and is configured to be able to realize various functions by software or a combination of software and hardware.

[0026] The viewer terminal 3 is an electronic device including a computer. The viewer terminal 3 may be, for example, a television receiver (including an Internet television), a PC, a mobile terminal (for example, a tablet, a smartphone, a laptop, a feature phone, a portable game console, a digital music player, an e-book reader, etc.), a VR terminal, an AR terminal, etc., but is not limited to these.

[0027] The viewer terminal 3, for example, has at least one processor and a memory in which a program executed by the processor is stored, and is configured to be able to realize various functions by software or a combination of software and hardware.

[0028] The viewer terminal 3 is capable of receiving content data such as the content data from the content distribution device 1 and presenting the content to the viewer by a display means, an audio means, etc. (not shown).

[0029] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a configuration of the content distribution device 1 according to the embodiment. The content distribution device 1 shown in FIG. 1 includes a control unit 11, a communication unit 12, a storage unit 13, and a timing unit 14 as shown in FIG.

[0030] The control unit 11 constitutes a computer corresponding to the central part of the content distribution device 1. The control unit 11 is a processing circuit having one or more processors. The processor is typically a central processing unit (CPU) and / or a graphics processing unit (GPU), but may be a microcomputer, a field programmable gate array (FPGA), a digital signal processor (DSP), or the like. The control unit 11 has a memory. The memory has a read only memory (ROM) as a non-volatile memory area. The memory has a random access memory (RAM) as a volatile memory area. The processor loads a program stored in the ROM or the storage unit 13 into the RAM. The processor executes the program loaded into the RAM, whereby the control unit 11 controls the overall operation of the content distribution device 1.

[0031] The communication unit 12 is a communication interface including a NIC (Network Interface Card controller) for wired or wireless communication. The communication unit 12 communicates with the distributor terminal 2 and the viewer terminal 3 via a network.

[0032] The storage unit 13 may be realized by a non-volatile storage medium such as a hard disk drive (HDD) or a solid state drive (SSD). The storage unit 13 stores the content data received from the distributor terminal 2. The content data may include image data such as live broadcast video content data for real-time distribution and video content data for time-shift distribution. Time-shift distribution includes distribution of recorded video content in response to a user request. Video content is also simply referred to as content. The storage unit 13 stores the content data in association with content identification information. The content identification information is information that can identify each content, and includes information such as a content ID or a content name. The storage unit 13 may store the content data in association with identification information (user identification information) of the distributor or the distributor terminal 2.

[0033] The memory unit 13 includes a log memory area 130. The log memory area 130 stores log information. The log information includes information related to the distributor's behavior or the viewer's behavior. The distributor's behavior includes behavior related to the distribution of content. The information related to the behavior related to the distribution of content includes information such as the number of times the content was distributed, the date and time of the content distribution, the content content, and the content distribution time. The viewer's behavior includes behavior related to the viewing of content. The information related to the behavior related to the viewing of content includes information such as the number of times the content was viewed, the date and time of the content viewing, the content viewed, the distributor of the viewed content, the content viewing time, the number of times comments were posted, the date and time of the comment posting, and the content of the comment.

[0034] The storage unit 13 includes a user information storage area 131. The user information storage area 131 stores user information. The user information may include identification information of the broadcaster or broadcaster terminal 2, identification information of the viewer or viewer terminal 3, information of the viewer associated with the broadcaster, information of the broadcaster for which the viewer has registered as a supporter, and the like. The identification information of the broadcaster or broadcaster terminal 2 and the identification information of the viewer or viewer terminal 3 are also referred to as user identification information. The user identification information is unique identification information assigned to each viewer or broadcaster in order to individually identify the viewer or broadcaster. Information of the viewer associated with the broadcaster is also referred to as supporter information. The supporter information includes user identification information of the supporter, and the like. A broadcaster for which a viewer has registered as a supporter is also referred to as a target broadcaster. Information of a broadcaster for which a viewer has registered as a supporter is also referred to as target broadcaster information. The target broadcaster information includes user identification information of the target broadcaster, and the like. The user identification information may be a user ID, a user name, or an icon indicating a user. The supporter information may include information indicating a supporter rank. The supporter rank indicates a classification of supporters that distinguishes supporters in stages. For example, the supporter rank may include ranks such as premium supporter and regular supporter. A premium supporter may be a supporter with a higher user rank than a regular supporter. The amount charged at the time of registration or renewal may differ depending on the supporter rank. The content of the services that a supporter can receive may differ depending on the supporter rank. In the following explanation, "deliver" may be read as "send".

[0035] The clock unit 14 is composed of an oscillator circuit and a variable PLL (Phase Locked Loop) for generating a clock signal, a counter circuit for counting the number of pulses of the clock signal, and the like. The clock unit 14 measures the time based on the number of pulses counted. The control unit 11 executes various controls at timings based on the number of pulses counted by the clock unit 14. The control unit 11 also counts the elapsed time from the start of the content and determines whether a predetermined time has elapsed based on the time measured by the clock unit 14. The control unit 11 manages the behavior of the viewer or distributor based on the time measured by the clock unit 14.

[0036] The following describes the functional configuration of the control unit 11. The control unit 11 functions as a supporter information processing unit 110 and a communication processing unit 111. Each unit can be interpreted as the control unit 11, a processor, or a processing circuit. The supporter information processing unit 110 acquires user information and log information stored in the storage unit 13. The supporter information processing unit 110 acquires log information related to a supporter who is a specific viewer associated with a specific distributor. The supporter information processing unit 110 counts the behavior of the supporter based on the acquired log information. The supporter information processing unit 110 counts the behavior of the supporter for each distributor. The behavior of the supporter includes behavior related to viewing the content of the target distributor. The content of the target distributor indicates the content distributed by the target distributor. The behavior of the supporter includes information such as the number of times the content was viewed, the viewing date and time of the content of the target distributor, the content of the target distributor that was viewed, the viewing time of the content of the target distributor, the number of times comments were posted to the target distributor, the posting date and time of the comment to the target distributor, and the content of the comment to the target distributor. The comment to the target distributor includes a comment on the content distributed by the target distributor. The supporter information processing unit 110 may count the behavior of the supporter by distinguishing whether the content viewed is live broadcast content or recorded content. The supporter information processing unit 110 may tally up the behavior of the supporter for each predetermined period. The predetermined period may include, for example, a period of one week, one month, one year, etc. The predetermined period may be a period set by an administrator, a distributor, a viewer, etc. The predetermined period may be a period set in advance according to the number of registered supporters, or may be set or updated appropriately by an administrator. The supporter information processing unit 110 may tally up the behavior of the supporter based on the behavior of the distributor or the supporter. For example, the supporter information processing unit 110 may tally up the behavior of the supporter every time the distributor distributes 10 pieces of content. The supporter information processing unit 110 may tally up the behavior of the supporter every time the number of registered supporters increases by 10. Note that the supporter information processing unit 110 may tally up the behavior of the supporter based on the log information of the target distributor, or may tally up the behavior of the supporter based on the log information of the supporter. The supporter information processing unit 110 may tally up the behavior of the supporter using a known processing technique for log information.The supporter information processing unit 110 obtains the total number of supporter actions in a specified period as the aggregation result. For example, the supporter information processing unit 110 obtains the total number of views of the target distributor's content by all supporters of the target distributor in a year as the aggregation result. The supporter information processing unit 110 obtains the aggregation result of the supporter's actions on a distributor basis, not on a content basis. For example, if the target distributor distributes multiple contents, the supporter information processing unit 110 obtains the total number of views of each supporter for each of the multiple contents as the aggregation result. The supporter's actions are also referred to as support activities. The aggregation result is also referred to as the supporter's behavioral performance. In the following explanation, "aggregation" may be read as "calculation".

[0037] The supporter information processing unit 110 may tally up the behavior of supporters associated with each broadcaster, and obtain a ranking of the broadcasters based on the tallying results for each broadcaster. The supporter information processing unit 110 may obtain a ranking of the broadcasters for each tallying item based on the tallying results. The tallying items include, for example, the number of registered supporters, the number of comments made by the supporter, the number of times a content has been played by the supporter, the number of "likes" made by the supporter, the most viewed content, and the like. For example, the supporter information processing unit 110 may obtain a ranking of the broadcasters in descending order of the number of comments made by the supporters of each broadcaster. In the following description, "obtain" may be read as "calculate".

[0038] The supporter information processing unit 110 may determine whether the tally result reaches a predetermined value, and if the tally result reaches the predetermined value, update the point information of at least one of the target broadcaster and the supporter. The predetermined value may be set for each tally item. For example, if the tally item is "number of registered supporters", the predetermined value may be a numerical value such as 50, 100, 150, etc. If the tally item is "number of comments by supporter", the predetermined value may be a numerical value such as 50, 100, 150, etc. Updating the point information includes granting bonus points. For example, the supporter information processing unit 110 may grant bonus points to at least one of the target broadcaster and the supporter if the number of comments by the supporter reaches 50,000.

[0039] The communication processing unit 111 receives content data from the distributor terminal 2 via the communication unit 12. The content data is data that can be identified by content identification information. In the following description, "receive" may be read as "acquire."

[0040] The communication processing unit 111 distributes content data to the viewer terminal 3 via the communication unit 12. For example, the communication processing unit 111 acquires a distribution request from the viewer terminal 3 via a network. In response to the distribution request received from the viewer terminal 3, the communication processing unit 111 acquires the content data for which the distribution request has been received from the storage unit 13, and distributes the content data to the viewer terminal 3. The distribution request from the viewer terminal 3 may include user identification information and content identification information. The user identification information is information that identifies the user who input the distribution request. In the following description, "in response" may be read as "based on".

[0041] The communication processing unit 111 may manage the start and end of the distribution of the content data based on, for example, time information obtained from the clock unit 14 and the distribution time of the content data or timeline data. Note that the content distribution unit 114 may manage the start and end of the distribution of the content such that the distribution of the content is started in real time when the content data is received and the distribution of the content is ended when the content data ends.

[0042] The communication processing unit 111 may distribute the video content stored in the storage unit 13 in response to a distribution request input from the viewer terminal 3.

[0043] The communication processing unit 111 may immediately discard the already-distributed content data, or may buffer it for a predetermined period of time to enable replay or slow-motion playback, for example.

[0044] The communication processing unit 111 transmits the result of the aggregation by the supporter information processing unit 110 via the communication unit 12 to at least one of the broadcaster terminal 2 of the target broadcaster and the viewer terminal 3 of the supporter.

[0045] The communication processing unit 111 receives comment information input by the supporter via the communication unit 12. The communication processing unit 111 transmits the comment information to the viewer terminal 3 of the supporter via the communication unit 12 to be displayed together with the tallying results. The communication processing unit 111 transmits the comment information to the broadcaster terminal 2 of the target broadcaster. The communication processing unit 111 may transmit the comment information to at least one of the broadcaster terminal 2 of the target broadcaster and the viewer terminal 3 of the supporter every time it receives comment information. The communication processing unit 111 may transmit the comment information to at least one of the broadcaster terminal 2 of the target broadcaster and the viewer terminal 3 of the supporter at a predetermined interval.

[0046] The communication processing unit 111 transmits the ranking results by the supporter information processing unit 110 to the viewer terminal 3 of the supporter associated with the target broadcaster via the communication unit 12. The communication processing unit 111 may transmit the ranking results to the broadcaster terminal 2 of the target broadcaster via the communication unit 12. The communication processing unit 111 may transmit the ranking results to the viewer terminal 3 of the supporter of a broadcaster other than the target broadcaster via the communication unit 12. The communication processing unit 111 may transmit the ranking results to the broadcaster terminal 2 of a broadcaster other than the target broadcaster via the communication unit 12.

[0047] The display image of the tally results will be described. Fig. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a supporter page image displayed on the viewer terminal 3 of the first embodiment. The supporter page image is, for example, an image that can be viewed by the supporter and the target broadcaster. The supporter page image is an image that includes information regarding the behavior of the supporter. The supporter page image includes a tally result display image.

[0048] Fig. 3 shows a tally result display image Im1 showing the tally result of the actions of the supporters. In the example shown in Fig. 3, the tally result display image Im1 includes at least a tally item display area A1, a tally result display area A2, and a comment input area A3.

[0049] The tally item display area A1 shows the tally items for tallying up the behavior of supporters. In this example, the tally item is "total time watched by supporters in 2022." The tally items displayed in the tally result display image may be selected by the supporter. For example, a list of tally items may be displayed on a user page for each supporter that can be accessed by the supporter. The supporter selects the tally item they wish to display from the list of tally items by touch input or the like. In response to the selection of a tally item by the supporter, the communication processing unit 111 may output the tally results corresponding to the selected tally item to the supporter's viewer terminal 3.

[0050] The tally result display area A2 shows the tally result corresponding to the tally item. In this example, the tally result is "1,396,136,xxx seconds, or 44 years, 98 days, 23 hours, xx minutes, xx seconds." The tally result is not limited to text data, but may be an image based on image data, video data, etc.

[0051] The comment input area A3 is an area where the supporter can input a comment. The supporter can input a comment related to the displayed tally result. The viewer terminal 3 transmits the comment input by the supporter to the content distribution device 1 via the network.

[0052] The image shown in Fig. 3 may be displayed on the broadcaster terminal 2. In this case, the tally item display area A1 may display the tally items selected by the broadcaster. The broadcaster may select the tally items from a list of tally items displayed on the user page of each broadcaster. In response to the broadcaster selecting a tally item, the communication processing unit 111 may output the tally results corresponding to the selected tally item to the broadcaster terminal 2 of the broadcaster.

[0053] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing roughly another example of a supporter page image displayed on the viewer terminal 3 of the first embodiment. Fig. 4 shows a tally result display image Im2 showing the tally results of supporter actions. In the example shown in Fig. 4, the tally result display image Im2 includes at least a tally item display area, a tally result display area, and a comment input area A3, similar to the tally result display image Im1. The tally result display image Im2 includes a comment C1 and a comment C2. The comment C1 and the comment C2 are images based on comment information entered by the supporter.

[0054] A supporter viewing the tally result display image Im2 inputs a comment on the tally result or the target distributor, etc., via the comment input area A3. The viewer terminal 3 transmits the comment input by the supporter to the content distribution device 1 via the network. The content distribution device 1 transmits comment information to be displayed on the viewer terminal 3 together with the tally result to the viewer terminal 3. The viewer terminal 3 displays the comment information so as to be combined or superimposed on the tally result. The comments C1 and C2 may be combined or superimposed on the content by known technology. The content distribution device 1 may transmit display data in which the comment information is combined or superimposed on the tally result to the viewer terminal 3, or may transmit the tally result and the comment information separately to the viewer terminal 3, and the viewer terminal 3 may display display data in which the comment information is combined or superimposed on the tally result on a display device, etc.

[0055] For example, a case will be described where supporter A is looking at the tally result display image Im2. Supporter A may input a comment regarding the displayed tally result via the comment input area A3. The comment input by supporter A is displayed, for example, in real time together with the tally result. Comments input by other supporters before supporter A looks at the tally result display image Im2 may be output by the content distribution device 1 to the viewer terminal 3 together with the tally result. Note that the comments are not limited to text data, and may also be images based on image data, video data, etc. The comments may include information that can identify the supporter who input the comment.

[0056] 3 and 4, the tally result display image may be an image including tally results for each tally item, or may be an image including tally results for multiple tally items. When the tally result display image includes tally results for multiple tally items, the broadcaster or supporter may select a tally item by touch input or the like, and enter a comment for the selected tally item.

[0057] The tabulation results and comments shown in Figures 3 and 4 are only displayed to the target broadcaster and supporters. Therefore, communication can be achieved within a specific community of only the target broadcaster and supporters. The target broadcaster and supporters can share a special awareness, such as a sense of elitism, within a closed specific community.

[0058] In addition, because the results are based only on the actions of the supporters of the target broadcaster, a strong bond is created between the target broadcaster and its supporters, and among supporters themselves, creating motivation for supporters to continue to register as supporters.

[0059] Although the display example of the supporter page image displayed on the viewer terminal 3 has been described with reference to FIG. 3 and FIG. 4, the display example on the viewer terminal 3 is not limited to this.

[0060] (Example of operation) The operation of the content distribution device 1 will now be described. The process procedure described below is merely an example, and each process may be changed as much as possible. Each process may be omitted or replaced depending on the embodiment, and new processes may be added.

[0061] FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an information processing operation in the content distribution device 1 of the first embodiment.

[0062] In the following description, it is assumed that the behavior of supporters is tallied for each distributor. The content distribution device 1 acquires information on supporters associated with a specific distributor and tallies the behavior of the supporters. The content distribution device 1 acquires the tally results tallied for each distributor.

[0063] In the following example, a specific broadcaster is referred to as a "target broadcaster", and a viewer who is registered as a supporter of the target broadcaster is referred to as a "supporter". The viewer terminal 3 of a supporter is one of multiple viewer terminals 3. The supporter information processing unit 110 is assumed to tally up the behavior of the supporter based on the log information of the target broadcaster.

[0064] The supporter information processing unit 110 acquires supporter information of a broadcaster from the user information stored in the storage unit 13 (step S1). In step S1, for example, the supporter information processing unit 110 acquires user information of the target broadcaster. The supporter information processing unit 110 acquires supporter information included in the user information of the target broadcaster.

[0065] The supporter information processing unit 110 acquires log information of the target distributor from the log information stored in the storage unit 13 (step S2). In step S2, for example, the supporter information processing unit 110 acquires log information related to the behavior of the supporter based on the supporter information.

[0066] The supporter information processing unit 110 tally up the behavior of the supporter based on the acquired log information (step S3). In step S3, for example, the supporter information processing unit 110 tally up the behavior of the supporter based on tally items. The supporter information processing unit 110 may tally up the behavior of the supporter for pre-set tally items. The supporter information processing unit 110 may tally up the behavior of the supporter for each predetermined period. In this case, the supporter information processing unit 110 may tally up the behavior of the supporter in response to the passage of a predetermined period based on the timing of the timing unit 14. The supporter information processing unit 110 may tally up the behavior of the supporter in response to a tally instruction from the administrator, the broadcaster, or the supporter.

[0067] The communication processing unit 111 transmits tally result image display data for displaying a tally result image showing the tally result to at least one of the broadcaster terminal 2 of the target broadcaster and the viewer terminal 3 of the supporter (step S4). In step S4, for example, the communication processing unit 111 transmits tally result image display data to at least one of the broadcaster terminal 2 and the viewer terminal 3 of the supporter each time it obtains a tally result. The communication processing unit 111 may transmit tally result image display data for a tally item selected by the broadcaster or supporter to at least one of the broadcaster terminal 2 and the viewer terminal 3 of the supporter.

[0068] When the communication processing unit 111 acquires comment information from the viewer terminal 3 of the supporter, the communication processing unit 111 may transmit the comment information to at least one of the broadcaster terminal 2 and the viewer terminal 3 of the supporter.

[0069] The supporter information processing unit 110 may obtain a ranking of broadcasters for each tally item based on the tally result of the behavior of the supporters of each broadcaster. For example, the supporter information processing unit 110 may analyze the tally result of each broadcaster for the tally item "number of comments by supporter" and rank the broadcasters in order of the number of comments by supporters. In this case, the communication processing unit 111 may transmit an image of the ranking result for each tally item to at least one of the broadcaster terminal 2 and the viewer terminal 3 of the supporter.

[0070] In addition, the supporter information processing unit 110 may determine whether or not a predetermined value has been reached for each tally item based on the tally results of the actions of the supporters of each broadcaster. For example, the supporter information processing unit 110 may determine whether or not the number of comments has reached a predetermined value of "50,000 times" for the tally item "number of comments by supporter." If the number of comments by a supporter has reached 50,000 times, the supporter information processing unit 110 may update the point information of at least one of the corresponding broadcaster and the supporter.

[0071] (effect) As described above, according to this embodiment, a content distribution device that distributes content to multiple viewer terminals acquires log information related to a specific viewer associated with a specific distributor, aggregates the behavior of the specific viewer based on the acquired log information, and transmits the aggregated result to at least one of the distributor terminal of the specific distributor and the viewer terminal of the specific viewer. This allows the content distribution device to compile the actions of supporters related to a specific distributor and their supporter viewers, and display the compilation results on at least one of the distributor terminal of the specific distributor and the viewer terminal of the specific viewer. Therefore, the content distribution device can facilitate close communication between the supporter and the specific distributor, and can give the supporter a sense of exclusivity, such as a sense of being chosen, between the supporter and the specific distributor. In this way, the content distribution device can maintain the motivation to continue supporting the specific distributor by making the supporter feel special.

[0072] According to this embodiment, the content distribution device receives comment information input by a specific viewer, and transmits the comment information to be displayed together with the tally result to the viewer terminal of the specific viewer. This allows the content distribution device to display the supporter's comments related to the tally result. Therefore, the content distribution device can promote closer communication between the supporter and the specific broadcaster, and can give the supporter a stronger sense of exclusivity. In this way, the content distribution device can make the supporter feel special, thereby maintaining their motivation to continue supporting the broadcaster.

[0073] According to this embodiment, the content distribution device tally up the behavior of a specific viewer for each predetermined period. This allows the supporter to look back and check the actions taken by the supporter over a specified period, such as one week, one month, or one year. Therefore, the content distribution device can motivate the supporter to perform even more support activities by sharing the actions of the supporter between the supporter and a specific distributor every specified period. In this way, the content distribution device can maintain the motivation to provide continuous support.

[0074] According to this embodiment, the content distribution device aggregates the behavior of specific viewers associated with each distributor, obtains a ranking of the distributors based on the aggregation results for each distributor, and transmits the ranking results to the viewer terminals of the specific viewers associated with each distributor. This allows the supporter to compare the support activities for the broadcaster he or she supports with the support activities for other broadcasters, and thus motivates the supporter to perform more support activities. In this way, the content distribution device can maintain the motivation to continue providing support.

[0075] According to this embodiment, the content distribution device determines whether the tally result has reached a predetermined value, and if the tally result has reached the predetermined value, updates the point information of at least one of the specific viewer and the distributor associated with the specific viewer. This allows the content distribution device to motivate the supporter to earn points based on the support activity, and further motivate the supporter to perform the support activity. In this way, the content distribution device can maintain the motivation to provide continuous support.

[0076] [Second embodiment] The content distribution device, the content distribution method, and the content program according to the second embodiment will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. In the second embodiment, similarly to the first embodiment, the content distribution device 1 provides a content distribution service via a network, and provides a supporter service. The content distribution device 1 outputs display data for displaying an object and a message input by a supporter to a target distributor.

[0077] The same components as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof will be omitted. In the second embodiment, the differences from the first embodiment will be mainly described.

[0078] (Configuration example) The communication processing unit 111 acquires an instruction to select an object from the viewer terminal 3 of the supporter. The object is a preset object. The object is, for example, an object in a shape on which a message can be written, such as a votive plaque. The object may include a plurality of types of objects. The object may include a plurality of grades of objects. For example, the object includes types such as grade 1 to grade 3. The grade may be set according to the amount of charge by the viewer. For example, the higher the grade of the object, the higher the amount of charge. For example, grade 1 may be the object with the lowest charge. Grade 3 may be the object with the highest charge. The size of the object may change according to the grade. For example, the higher the grade of the object, the larger the size may be. The period during which the object is displayed in the object priority display area described later may change according to the grade. The period during which the object is displayed in the object priority display area is also called the priority display period. The priority display period is a period during which an object image can be preferentially displayed on the object display screen. For example, the higher the grade of the object, the longer the priority display period may be. The object image may be arbitrarily created from image data by the viewer. The supporter can select an object and obtain the object by a method such as charging. In the following description, "acquire" may be read as "purchase."

[0079] The communication processing unit 111 acquires message input information from the viewer terminal 3 of the supporter. The message includes a message supporting the target broadcaster, a request, a hope, an impression, etc. to the target broadcaster. The message may include text data, image data, video data, etc. The message may include user identification information of the supporter.

[0080] The communication processing unit 111 outputs display data to the broadcaster terminal 2 of the target broadcaster and the viewer terminal 3 of the supporter so as to display an object based on the acquired object selection instruction and a message based on the acquired message input information, synthesized or superimposed. The communication processing unit 111 may transmit the display data in which the object is synthesized or superimposed with the message to the viewer terminal 3, or may transmit the object data and the message data separately to the broadcaster terminal 2 or the viewer terminal 3, and the broadcaster terminal 2 or the viewer terminal 3 may display the display data in which the object data is synthesized or superimposed with the message data on a display device or the like.

[0081] The communication processing unit 111 may acquire reactions to the message from other supporters or the target distributor. The reaction is, for example, data indicating "Like" or the like. The communication processing unit 111 may output the reaction to the distributor terminal 2 of the target distributor and the viewer terminal 3 of the supporter.

[0082] The display image of the object will be described below. Fig. 6 is a diagram showing an example of a supporter page image displayed on the viewer terminal 3 of the second embodiment. The supporter page image includes an object display image.

[0083] Fig. 6 shows an object display image Im3. In the example shown in Fig. 6, the object display image Im3 includes at least an object priority display area A4, an object list display area A5, and a purchase button B1. The object display image Im3 is displayed on a user page of a viewer, etc.

[0084] The object priority display area A4 is an area that displays objects on a priority basis based on the grade of the object or the acquisition time by the supporter. The object priority display area A4 displays a predetermined number of objects in order of the most recent acquisition time of the object, for example. The object priority display area A4 displays objects that are set to be displayed on a priority basis according to the grade of the object. The object priority display area A4 displays a predetermined number of objects in order of the longest priority display period, for example. In the example of FIG. 6, the predetermined number is "2".

[0085] The object list display area A5 is an area for displaying a list of objects and messages. For example, the object list display area A5 displays objects and messages in order of the most recent object acquisition time. The object list display area A5 may also include reactions to the objects and messages.

[0086] The purchase button B1 is a button for the supporter to acquire an object. The supporter can select and acquire a desired type of object by selecting the purchase button B1 by touch input or the like. The supporter can input a message to be given to the selected object.

[0087] The image shown in FIG.

[0088] Although a display example of the supporter page image displayed on the viewer terminal 3 has been described with reference to FIG. 6, the display example on the viewer terminal 3 is not limited to this.

[0089] (Example of operation) The operation of the content distribution device 1 will now be described. The process procedure described below is merely an example, and each process may be changed as much as possible. Each process may be omitted or replaced depending on the embodiment, and new processes may be added.

[0090] FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an information processing operation in the content distribution device 1 of the second embodiment.

[0091] In the following description, it is assumed that information on the supporter's object is acquired for each distributor. The content distribution device 1 acquires input information from a supporter associated with a specific distributor, and outputs an object and a message.

[0092] The communication processing unit 111 acquires input information from the viewer terminal 3 of the supporter (step S11). In step S11, for example, the communication processing unit 111 acquires an instruction to select an object from the viewer terminal 3 of the supporter. The communication processing unit 111 acquires input information for a message from the viewer terminal 3 of the supporter.

[0093] The communication processing unit 111 outputs display data of the object and the message to at least one of the broadcaster terminal 2 of the target broadcaster and the viewer terminal 3 of the supporter (step S12). In step S12, for example, the communication processing unit 111 outputs object display image data for displaying the object display image to at least one of the broadcaster terminal 2 of the target broadcaster and the viewer terminal 3 of the supporter. The object display image includes an object priority display image and an object list display image. The object priority display image is an image that includes a predetermined number of objects based on the priority order of the objects. The object list display image is an image that lists the objects. When the communication processing unit 111 obtains reactions to the object and the message, it may output the reaction information to at least one of the broadcaster terminal 2 of the target broadcaster and the viewer terminal 3 of the supporter.

[0094] (effect) As described above, according to this embodiment, the content distribution device acquires an object selection instruction from the supporter's viewer terminal, acquires message input information, and outputs display data of the object and the message to at least one of the broadcaster terminal of the specific broadcaster and the supporter's viewer terminal. This allows the supporter to send a support message, request, hope, impression, etc. to the specific broadcaster. Therefore, the content distribution device can facilitate close communication between the supporter and the specific broadcaster, and can give the supporter a sense of exclusivity, such as a sense of being chosen, between the supporter and the specific broadcaster. In this way, the content distribution device can make the supporter feel special, thereby maintaining the motivation to continue supporting the supporter.

[0095] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the content distribution device preferentially displays on a display device or the like an object selected by a supporter according to the grade of the object or the acquisition time of the object. This allows the content distribution device to motivate the supporter to acquire an object of a higher grade earlier and display it preferentially. Therefore, the content distribution device can motivate the supporter to perform support activities. In this way, the content distribution device can maintain the supporter's motivation to continue providing support.

[0096] [Third embodiment] The content distribution device, the content distribution method, and the content program according to the third embodiment will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. In the third embodiment, similarly to the first embodiment, the content distribution device 1 provides a content distribution service via a network, and provides a supporter service. The content distribution device 1 outputs a questionnaire input by a supporter to a target distributor.

[0097] The same components as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof will be omitted. In the third embodiment, the differences from the first embodiment will be mainly described.

[0098] (Configuration example) The communication processing unit 111 acquires an instruction to create a questionnaire from the viewer terminal 3 of the supporter. The creation instruction includes questionnaire information. The questionnaire information includes questionnaire items and answer options. The questionnaire information may include a voting period for the answers. The communication processing unit 111 acquires the answers from the supporter. The answers may include user identification information of the supporter. A questionnaire is also called a vote.

[0099] The communication processing unit 111 outputs tally result image display data for displaying a tally result image showing the tally result of the questionnaire responses to at least one of the broadcaster terminal 2 of the target broadcaster and the viewer terminal 3 of the supporter.

[0100] The communication processing unit 111 may output the response rate to the questionnaire to the broadcaster terminal 2 of the target broadcaster. The communication processing unit 111 may output the response rate to the questionnaire to the viewer terminal 3 of the supporter who inputted the response.

[0101] The communication processing unit 111 may obtain an answer deadline instruction from the supporter. In this case, the communication processing unit 111 may output an answer deadline notification to the viewer terminal 3 of the supporter. The communication processing unit 111 closes the vote from the supporter based on the voting period for the answer.

[0102] The supporter information processing unit 110 generates questionnaire display image data for displaying a questionnaire display image based on the questionnaire information. The supporter information processing unit 110 counts up the responses to the questionnaire. The supporter information processing unit 110 calculates the response rate to the questionnaire.

[0103] The display image of the questionnaire will now be described. Fig. 8 is a diagram showing an example of a supporter page image displayed on the viewer terminal 3 of the third embodiment. The supporter page image includes a questionnaire display image.

[0104] Fig. 8 shows a questionnaire display image Im4. In the example shown in Fig. 8, the questionnaire display image Im4 includes at least a questionnaire result display area A6 and an add button B2. The questionnaire display image Im4 is displayed on the viewer's user page or the like.

[0105] The survey result display area A6 is an area that displays a survey based on the survey information input by the supporter and the answer results input by the supporter. The survey result display area A6 displays the surveys and answer results, for example, arranged from the top of the display screen in order of the most recent survey information acquisition time. The survey result display area A6 includes survey items, answer options, answer rate, etc. The survey result display area A6 may include the time of acquisition of the survey information. The survey result display area A6 may include information that can identify the supporter who input the survey information. The distributor or the supporter may select whether to display or hide the identification information of the supporter who input the survey information. The add button B2 is a button that the supporter uses to input survey information. The supporter can create a new survey by selecting the add button B2 by touch input, etc.

[0106] The image shown in FIG.

[0107] Although a display example of the supporter page image displayed on the viewer terminal 3 has been described with reference to FIG. 8, the display example on the viewer terminal 3 is not limited to this.

[0108] (Example of operation) The operation of the content distribution device 1 will now be described. The process procedure described below is merely an example, and each process may be changed as much as possible. Each process may be omitted or replaced depending on the embodiment, and new processes may be added.

[0109] FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an information processing operation in the content distribution device 1 of the third embodiment.

[0110] In the following description, it is assumed that information regarding the supporter questionnaire is acquired for each distributor. The content distribution device 1 acquires input information from a supporter associated with a specific distributor, and outputs the information regarding the questionnaire.

[0111] The communication processing unit 111 acquires the questionnaire information from the viewer terminal 3 of the supporter (step S21). The supporter information processing unit 110 generates data for a questionnaire display image based on the questionnaire information.

[0112] The communication processing unit 111 outputs data for a questionnaire display image based on the questionnaire information to at least one of the distributor terminal 2 of the target distributor and the viewer terminal 3 of the supporter (step S22).

[0113] The communication processing unit 111 acquires the answer from the viewer terminal 3 of the supporter (step S23). In step S23, for example, the communication processing unit 111 acquires an instruction to select an answer input by the supporter. The communication processing unit 111 may acquire user identification information of the supporter who input the answer.

[0114] The supporter information processing unit 110 tally up the supporter's answers for each questionnaire item (step S24). In step S24, for example, the supporter information processing unit 110 may calculate a response rate for each answer option.

[0115] The communication processing unit 111 outputs data for displaying an image of the survey's tallied results to at least one of the broadcaster terminal 2 of the target broadcaster and the viewer terminal 3 of the supporter (step S25). The communication processing unit 111 may output data for displaying an image of the survey's tallied results, showing the interim results of the survey, to the viewer terminal 3 of the supporter who has answered the survey. The interim result image includes the response rate of the answer results that are tallied during the voting period of the survey, etc. After the voting period of the survey ends, the communication processing unit 111 may output data for displaying an image of the survey's tallied results to the viewer terminal 3 of the supporter who has not answered the survey.

[0116] (effect) As described above, according to this embodiment, the content distribution device acquires an instruction to create a questionnaire from a specific viewer terminal or a specific distributor terminal, and acquires responses from the specific viewer terminal. This allows the specific distributor or its supporter to promote close communication between the specific distributor and the supporter, and can give the supporter a sense of exclusivity, such as a sense of being chosen, between the specific distributor and the supporter. In this way, the content distribution device can make the supporter feel special, thereby maintaining their motivation to continue supporting the distributor.

[0117] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the content distribution device obtains an instruction for the deadline for responding to the questionnaire. This allows the content distribution device to motivate supporters to respond within the voting period for responses. Furthermore, the content distribution device calculates the response rate for each answer option in the questionnaire. This allows the content distribution device to motivate supporters to participate in the questionnaire, and entertain supporters by displaying changes in the response rate even during the voting period for responses to the questionnaire. In this way, the content distribution device can maintain supporters' motivation to continue providing support.

[0118] [Fourth embodiment] A content distribution device, a content distribution method, and a content program according to the fourth embodiment will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. In the fourth embodiment, similarly to the first embodiment, the content distribution device 1 provides a content distribution service via a network, and provides a supporter service. The content distribution device 1 outputs information on anniversaries that can be set by a target distributor or a supporter.

[0119] The same components as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof will be omitted. In the third embodiment, the differences from the first embodiment will be mainly described.

[0120] (Configuration example) The communication processing unit 111 acquires an instruction to set an anniversary from the viewer terminal 3 of the supporter. The communication processing unit 111 may acquire an instruction to set an anniversary from the broadcaster terminal 2 of the target broadcaster. The anniversary includes an anniversary related to the target broadcaster. The anniversary includes, for example, the birthday of the broadcaster, the first posting date of the content, the first delivery date of the live broadcast, anniversaries related to the content, and anniversaries related to the supporter. Anniversaries related to the content include anniversaries related to the number of views of the content, and the like. Anniversaries related to the supporter include anniversaries related to the number of registered supporters, the number of comments of the supporter, and the like. The anniversary may include past anniversaries and future anniversaries. A past anniversary is the first posting date of the content, and the like. A future anniversary is the date when the number of registered supporters reaches a predetermined number, and the like. A future anniversary is also called an anniversary that has not yet been reached. The instruction to set an anniversary includes anniversary information. The anniversary information includes the date of the anniversary, the content of the anniversary, and the like. The anniversary information may include user identification information of the broadcaster or supporter who set the anniversary.

[0121] When the set anniversary indicates a future anniversary, the communication processing unit 111 may output information indicating that the anniversary has arrived to the broadcaster terminal 2 of the target broadcaster and the viewer terminal 3 of the supporter.

[0122] The communication processing unit 111 outputs anniversary list image display data for displaying the anniversary list image to at least one of the broadcaster terminal 2 of the target broadcaster and the viewer terminal 3 of the supporter.

[0123] The supporter information processing unit 110 generates data for displaying an anniversary list image based on the anniversary information of the anniversary. The supporter information processing unit 110 determines whether or not an anniversary has arrived based on at least one of the time measurement by the time measurement unit 14 and the log information.

[0124] The anniversary list image will be described below. Fig. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a supporter page image displayed on the viewer terminal 3 of the fourth embodiment. The supporter page image includes an anniversary list image.

[0125] Fig. 10 shows an anniversary list image Im5. In the example shown in Fig. 10, the anniversary list image Im5 includes at least an anniversary list display area A7 and an add button B3. The anniversary list image Im5 is displayed on the viewer's user page or the like.

[0126] The anniversary list display area A7 is an area that displays anniversaries based on anniversary information. The anniversary list display area A7 may include text data, image data, video data, etc. related to anniversaries. The anniversary list display area A7 displays anniversaries, for example, arranged from the top of the display screen in order of the oldest anniversary date and time. The survey result display area A6 may include information that can identify the broadcaster or supporter who set the anniversary. The broadcaster or supporter may be able to select whether to display or hide the identification information of the broadcaster or supporter who set the anniversary. The add button B3 is a button that allows the broadcaster or supporter to input anniversary information. The broadcaster or supporter can input new anniversary information or set an anniversary by selecting the add button B3 by touch input, etc.

[0127] The image shown in FIG.

[0128] Although a display example of the supporter page image displayed on the viewer terminal 3 has been described with reference to FIG. 10, the display example on the viewer terminal 3 is not limited to this.

[0129] (Example of operation) The operation of the content distribution device 1 will now be described. The process procedure described below is merely an example, and each process may be changed as much as possible. Each process may be omitted or replaced depending on the embodiment, and new processes may be added.

[0130] In the following description, it is assumed that information about anniversaries is acquired for each distributor. The content distribution device 1 acquires input information about anniversaries from the distributors or supporters, and outputs the information about anniversaries.

[0131] FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an information processing operation in the content distribution device 1 of the fourth embodiment. In the following example, it is assumed that input information regarding past anniversaries is obtained from the broadcaster or supporter.

[0132] The communication processing unit 111 acquires an instruction to set an anniversary (step S31). In step S31, for example, the communication processing unit 111 acquires an instruction to set an anniversary from the viewer terminal 3 of the supporter. The communication processing unit 111 may acquire an instruction to set an anniversary from the broadcaster terminal 2 of the target broadcaster. The supporter information processing unit 110 generates data for displaying an anniversary list image based on the anniversary information.

[0133] The communication processing unit 111 outputs anniversary list image display data to at least one of the broadcaster terminal 2 of the target broadcaster and the viewer terminal 3 of the supporter based on the anniversary information (step S32).

[0134] FIG. 12 is a flowchart for explaining another example of the information processing operation in the content distribution device 1 of the fourth embodiment. In the following example, it is assumed that input information regarding future anniversaries has been acquired from the broadcaster or supporter.

[0135] The communication processing unit 111 acquires an instruction to set an anniversary (step S41). In step S41, for example, similar to step 31, the communication processing unit 111 acquires an instruction to set an anniversary from the viewer terminal 3 of the supporter. The communication processing unit 111 may acquire an instruction to set an anniversary from the broadcaster terminal 2 of the target broadcaster.

[0136] The supporter information processing unit 110 determines whether or not the anniversary has arrived (step S42). In step S42, for example, the supporter information processing unit 110 determines whether or not the anniversary has arrived based on at least one of the contents of the set anniversary, the timekeeping by the timing unit 14, and the log information. If the supporter information processing unit 110 determines that the anniversary has arrived (step S42: YES), the process transitions from step S42 to step S43. If the supporter information processing unit 110 determines that the anniversary has not arrived (step S42: NO), the process repeats step S42.

[0137] The communication processing unit 111 outputs information indicating that the anniversary has been reached to at least one of the broadcaster terminal 2 of the target broadcaster and the viewer terminal 3 of the supporter (step S43). The communication processing unit 111 may output information indicating that the anniversary has been reached as, for example, a pop-up notification. The supporter information processing unit 110 generates data for displaying an anniversary list image based on the anniversary information.

[0138] The communication processing unit 111 outputs anniversary list image display data to at least one of the broadcaster terminal 2 of the target broadcaster and the viewer terminal 3 of the supporter based on the anniversary information (step S44).

[0139] (effect) As described above, according to this embodiment, the content distribution device acquires an instruction to set an anniversary from a specific viewer terminal or a specific distributor terminal, and displays an anniversary list image based on the anniversary information of the anniversary. This allows a specific distributor or its supporter to communicate closely with the specific distributor by sharing anniversaries, and can give the supporter a sense of exclusivity, such as a sense of being chosen, between the specific distributor and the supporter. In this way, the content distribution device can make the supporter feel special, thereby maintaining their motivation to continue supporting the distributor.

[0140] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, when the content distribution device acquires an instruction to set an unreached anniversary, it outputs information indicating that an anniversary has been reached to at least one of a specific viewer terminal and a specific distributor terminal. This allows the distributor or supporter to set a future goal as an anniversary, and the content distribution device can motivate the supporter to perform support activities, etc., toward achieving the future goal. In this way, the content distribution device can maintain the supporter's motivation to continue providing support.

[0141] [Other embodiments] Although the content distribution device 1 includes the storage unit 13 in the above example, the present invention is not limited to this example. The storage unit 13 may be included in a device different from the content distribution device 1.

[0142] The content distribution device may be realized by one electronic device as described above using the content distribution device 1 as an example, or may be realized by a system in which functions are distributed among a plurality of electronic devices.

[0143] Some of the above-described embodiments may be applied to one or more electronic devices such as a content distribution device, as well as to a method executed by one or more electronic devices. The above-described embodiments may also be applied to a program capable of causing a computer of the electronic device to execute each function.

[0144] The program may be transferred in a state where it is stored in an electronic device, or in a state where it is not stored in an electronic device. In the latter case, the program may be transferred via a network, or in a state where it is recorded on a recording medium. The recording medium is a non-transitory tangible medium. The recording medium is a computer-readable medium. The recording medium may be in any form, such as a CD-ROM or a memory card, as long as it is capable of storing the program and is readable by a computer.

[0145] The present invention is not limited to the above-mentioned embodiment, and can be modified in various ways without departing from the gist of the present invention. The embodiments may be combined as appropriate, and in that case, the combined effect can be obtained. Furthermore, the above-mentioned embodiment includes various inventions, and various inventions can be extracted by combinations selected from the multiple components disclosed. For example, if the problem can be solved and the effect can be obtained even if some components are deleted from all the components shown in the embodiment, the configuration from which the components are deleted can be extracted as an invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0146] 1...content distribution device, 2...distributor terminal, 3...viewer terminal, 11...control unit, 12...communication unit, 13...memory unit, 14...timing unit, 110...supporter information processing unit, 111...communication processing unit, 114...content distribution unit, 130...log memory area, 131...user information memory area, A1...aggregation item display area, A2...aggregation result display area, A3...comment input area, A4...object priority display area, A5...object list display area, A6...survey result display area, A7...anniversary list display area, B1...purchase button, B2~B3...add button, C1~C2...comment, Im1~Im2...aggregation result display image, Im3...object display image, Im4...survey display image, Im5...anniversary list image.

Claims

1. A content distribution device that distributes content to multiple viewer terminals, Obtain message input information from viewers who have registered as supporters to support a specific broadcaster, a communication processing unit that transmits message data for displaying the message on a supporter page that can be viewed by the supporter and the specific broadcaster to at least one of a broadcaster terminal of the specific broadcaster and a viewer terminal of a viewer including the supporter; Content distribution device.

2. The message is a message supporting the specific broadcaster. The content distribution device according to claim 1 .

3. the communication processing unit acquires a selection instruction for an object on which the message can be written, and transmits object data to at least one of a broadcaster terminal of the specific broadcaster and a viewer terminal of a viewer including the supporter based on the selection instruction; The object changes size depending on the grade. The content distribution device according to claim 1 .

4. the communication processing unit acquires reactions to the message from other supporters or the specific distributor; Transmitting the reaction to at least one of a broadcaster terminal of the specific broadcaster and a viewer terminal of the supporter; The content distribution device according to claim 1 .

5. the communication processing unit transmits data for displaying a list of messages in descending order of the time at which the messages were received to at least one of a broadcaster terminal of the specific broadcaster and a viewer terminal of the supporter; The content distribution device according to claim 1 .

6. the communication processing unit displays the message with priority according to the grade. The content distribution device according to claim 1 .

7. A content distribution method for distributing content to a plurality of viewer terminals, comprising: Acquiring message input information from a viewer who is registered as a supporter supporting a specific broadcaster; a step of transmitting message data for displaying the message on a supporter page that can be viewed by the supporter and the specific broadcaster to at least one of a broadcaster terminal of the specific broadcaster and a viewer terminal of the supporter; A content distribution method comprising:

8. A content distribution program for distributing content to a plurality of viewer terminals, Computer, Obtain message input information from viewers who have registered as supporters to support a specific broadcaster, a communication processing means for transmitting message data for displaying the message on a supporter page that can be viewed by the supporter and the specific broadcaster to at least one of a broadcaster terminal of the specific broadcaster and a viewer terminal of the supporter; A content delivery program that functions as a

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