Information processing apparatus, imaging apparatus, and information processing method

Abstract

To provide an information processing apparatus and the like that can distribute distribution data by using a network distribution service without requiring a user to perform complicated settings in an imaging apparatus.SOLUTION: An information processing apparatus 200 is used in distributing distribution data generated by an imaging apparatus 100 via a distribution server 300 of a network distribution service. The information processing apparatus has: registration means 201 that acquires first information for registering the imaging apparatus and second information for registering the distribution of the distribution data, and registers the imaging apparatus and the distribution in association with each other; and control means 201 that transmits the second information to the distribution server and receives third information for executing the distribution generated by the distribution server based on the second information. The control means transmits the third information to the imaging apparatus registered in association with the distribution executed by using the third information.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an information processing technique for distributing content using a network distribution service. [Background technology]

[0002] As a service for distributing content to users via a network, there is a distribution service (e.g., a cloud service) that distributes content such as video data captured by a user with a digital camera to other users via the Internet in a live manner. Patent Document 1 discloses a system in which a digital camera communicates with a server, and the server distributes live video data captured by the digital camera. In addition, in such a system, there is a demand for a user to be able to distribute video data directly from the camera to the Internet without going through a personal computer (PC). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2015-220595 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] To live stream video data directly from a camera, it is necessary to configure the settings of the streaming service on the camera. However, it is cumbersome for users to set the information required for live streaming, such as the streaming URL and stream key, on the camera without using a PC.

[0005] The present invention provides an information processing device and the like that enables a user to distribute content using a network distribution service without having to perform complicated settings on the camera. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] An information processing device according to one aspect of the present invention is used when distributing distribution data generated by an imaging device via a distribution server of a network distribution service. The information processing device includes a registration means for acquiring first information for registering an imaging device and second information for registering distribution of distribution data, and registering the imaging device and the distribution in association with each other, and a control means for transmitting the second information to a distribution server and receiving third information for executing the distribution, which is created by the distribution server based on the second information. The control means transmits the third information to an imaging device registered in association with the distribution to be executed using the third information. Note that an imaging device that acquires the third information from the information processing device and executes distribution using the third information also constitutes another aspect of the present invention. Furthermore, a distribution system including the information processing device and a distribution server, in which an imaging device executes distribution using the third information, also constitutes another aspect of the present invention.

[0007] Another aspect of the present invention is an information processing method for distributing distribution data generated by an imaging device via a distribution server of a network distribution service. The method includes the steps of acquiring first information for registering an imaging device and second information for registering distribution of the distribution data, and registering the distribution by associating the imaging device, transmitting the second information to the distribution server, receiving third information for executing the distribution, which is created by the distribution server based on the second information, and transmitting the third information to the registered imaging device in association with the distribution to be executed using the third information. Note that a program for causing a computer to execute a process according to the information processing method also constitutes another aspect of the present invention. Effect of the Invention

[0008] According to the present invention, it is possible to distribute distribution data using a network distribution service without requiring a user to perform complicated settings on an imaging device. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a configuration of a communication system according to an embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the configuration of a digital camera according to an embodiment. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the configuration of a relay server in the embodiment. [Figure 4] 4A shows registration table data for a digital camera and FIG. 4B shows registration table data for a cloud service in an embodiment. [Diagram 5] 1A is a diagram showing a process executed by a relay server, and FIG. 1B is a diagram showing another process executed by the relay server in an embodiment. [Figure 6] 6A and 6B are diagrams showing a process in which a digital camera transmits distribution data to a distribution server in the embodiment. [Figure 7] 1A to 1C are diagrams showing a start screen, a standby screen, and a streaming screen when performing live streaming processing in an embodiment. [Figure 8] 4 is a flowchart showing a process executed by the digital camera in the embodiment. [Figure 9] 11 is a flowchart showing a process executed by a relay server in the embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0010] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0011] [System Configuration] 1 shows a system configuration as an embodiment for live streaming of video data captured by a user-portable digital camera (hereinafter simply referred to as a camera) 100 as an imaging device (and communication device). Live streaming is when a distributor (user) uses streaming technology to distribute image data, audio data, etc. to viewers (other users) in real time via the Internet as a network. Viewers can view the image data, audio data, etc. in the same way as live television or radio broadcasts. In this embodiment, a network distribution service (e.g., a cloud service) that performs such live streaming is called a live streaming service.

[0012] The camera 100 accesses the relay server 200 and the distribution server 300, which are computers, via a network router (hereinafter simply referred to as a router) 400, which serves as an access point of a wireless LAN (Local Area Network), and a network. Here, it is assumed that the camera 100 records an address for accessing the relay server 200, and the relay server 200 records the address of the distribution server 300. The address is an IP address, a URL, or the like.

[0013] The distribution server 300 of this embodiment provides a live distribution service. The camera 100, as a client of the distribution server 300, is connected to the relay server 200 by joining a network (Internet) including a network router 400. The relay server 200 is connected to the distribution server 300 via a public line. The camera 100 can receive the address of the distribution server 300 from the relay server 200 and connect to the distribution server 300 using the address.

[0014] In this embodiment, the camera 100 is wirelessly connected to the network router 400, but the camera 100 may be wired to the network router 400. In this embodiment, the camera 100 is only one, but multiple cameras 100 may be connected to the relay server 200 and the distribution server 300.

[0015] [Camera 100 Configuration] 2 shows the configuration of camera 100. Camera 100 has a function for using a live distribution service. Control unit 101 controls the entire camera 100 in accordance with input signals and a program described below. Note that instead of control unit 101 controlling the entire camera 100, multiple pieces of hardware may share the processing to control the entire camera 100.

[0016] The imaging unit 102 has an optical system including a zoom lens, a focus lens, an aperture, etc., and an imaging element that converts an optical image of a subject formed by the optical system into an imaging signal as an electrical signal. A complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) sensor or a charge coupled device (CCD) sensor is used as the imaging element. The imaging signal from the imaging unit 102 is input to the control unit 101. The control unit 101 performs various image processing such as noise reduction processing on the imaging signal to generate image data. The image data referred to here is mainly moving image data, but also includes still image data. In this embodiment, the process of acquiring video data through the imaging unit 102 is called "imaging". The control unit 101 records the generated image data on the recording medium 110 in accordance with the DCF (Design Rule for Camera File system) standard. The control unit 101 also temporarily records image data to be distributed in live distribution in the working memory 104.

[0017] The non-volatile memory 103 is an electrically erasable and recordable non-volatile memory, and stores programs and the like executed by the control unit 101. The working memory 104 is used as a buffer memory for temporarily holding image data generated by the imaging unit 102, a memory for saving image data to be displayed on a display unit 106 (described later), a working area for the control unit 101, and the like.

[0018] Operation unit 105 is operated by a user to accept input of instructions to camera 100. Operation unit 105 includes operation members such as a power button for instructing on / off of power to camera 100, a release switch for instructing image capture, and a playback button for instructing playback of stored image data. When the release switch is half-pressed, SW1 is turned on, and control unit 101 starts image capture preparation operations such as AF (autofocus) processing, AE (auto exposure) processing, and AWB (auto white balance) processing. When the release switch is fully pressed, SW2 is turned on, and control unit 101 starts image capture operations.

[0019] The operation unit 105 also includes a dedicated connection button for starting communication with an external device via a connection unit 111, which will be described later. Furthermore, the operation unit 105 also includes a touch panel provided on the display unit .

[0020] The display unit 106 displays image data for viewfinder and image data for recording that are generated before capturing the image data for recording, and displays characters and symbols for easy operation by the user. A liquid crystal display, an organic EL display, or the like is used for the display unit 106. The display unit 106 does not necessarily have to be included in the camera 100, and may be provided as an external device separate from the camera 100. Even in this case, the control unit 101 has a function of controlling the display of the display unit 106. The control unit 101 also causes the display unit 106 to function as an electronic viewfinder by sequentially transferring image data stored in the working memory 104 to the display unit 106 and displaying the image data on the display unit 106 as a live view image.

[0021] The microphone 107 converts sound into an electrical signal and inputs it to the camera 100. The control unit 101 generates audio data from the input electrical signal, and records the audio data in synchronization with image data generated by the imaging unit 102. In this embodiment, the audio data for live distribution is recorded in the working memory 104. The microphone 107 may be built into the camera 100, or may be detachably attached to the camera 100.

[0022] The recording medium 110 is a semiconductor memory, an optical disk, or the like capable of recording image data output from the imaging unit 102. The recording medium 110 may be built into the camera 100, or may be detachable from the camera 100.

[0023] The connection unit 111 is a communication interface for connecting to various external devices. The control unit 101 controls the connection unit 111 to communicate with various external devices. The camera 100 can exchange image data and audio data with the relay server 200 and the distribution server 300 via the connection unit 111. The connection unit 111 includes an interface for communicating over a wireless LAN conforming to the IEEE802.11 standard. The connection unit 111 also has a client mode for operating as a client in infrastructure mode. By operating the connection unit 111 in the client mode, the camera 100 can operate as a client device in infrastructure mode. When the camera 100 operates as a client device, it can join a LAN including an access point by connecting to a nearby access point. The communication method of the connection unit 111 is not limited to wireless LAN, but also includes public wireless communication methods such as 4G and LTE, and wired communication methods conforming to standards such as Ethernet.

[0024] [Configuration of Relay Server 200] 3 shows the configuration of relay server 200 as an information processing device. Note that, as an information processing device instead of relay server 200, another device having a function of relaying communication between camera 100 and distribution server 300 and holding multiple pieces of event information (described later) received from distribution server 300 may be used. Examples of other devices include a smartphone, a tablet device, and a personal computer (PC).

[0025] The control unit 201 controls the entire relay server 200 according to input signals and programs. The control unit 201 in this embodiment corresponds to a registration means and a control means. Note that instead of the control unit 201 controlling the entire relay server 200, multiple hardware may share the processing to control the entire relay server 200.

[0026] The non-volatile memory 203 is an electrically erasable and recordable non-volatile memory. In the non-volatile memory 203, an OS (operating system) which is basic software executed by the control unit 201, and applications which cooperate with the OS to realize various functions are recorded. The applications include applications for communicating with the camera 100 and the distribution server 300. Furthermore, the non-volatile memory 203 records a database, which will be described later.

[0027] The working memory 204 is a volatile memory, and is used as a work area for the control unit 201 and as a data saving area during error processing.

[0028] The operation unit 205 is operated by a user to receive input of instructions to the relay server 200. The operation unit 205 includes a power button for instructing the relay server 200 to power on / off, and input devices such as a keyboard and a mouse. The operation unit 205 also includes a touch panel provided on the display unit 206, which will be described later. Note that the operation unit 205 does not necessarily need to be built into the relay server 200, and an external operation unit 205 may be connected to the relay server 200.

[0029] The display unit 206 displays characters and symbols to facilitate user operation. A liquid crystal display, an organic EL display, or the like is used for the display unit 206. Note that the display unit 206 does not necessarily need to be included in the relay server 200, and may be provided as an external device separate from the relay server 200. Even in this case, the control unit 201 has a function of controlling the display of the display unit 206.

[0030] The external recording device 210 reads and writes data from and to the external recording medium. When programs and image data are recorded on the external recording medium, they are read into the working memory 204 via the external recording device 210. As the external recording medium, an optical disk, a flexible disk, a magnetic disk, a semiconductor memory, etc., can be used.

[0031] The connection unit 211 is a communication interface for connecting to various external devices. The control unit 201 communicates with various external devices by controlling the connection unit 211. The relay server 200 can exchange image data and audio data with the camera 100 and the distribution server 300 via the connection unit 211.

[0032] [Live streaming service] The distribution server 300 provided by the live distribution service is a server that mediates between the distributor and the viewer. For example, the camera 100 transmits image data generated by capturing images to the distribution server 300 in real time. The distribution server 300 provides the received image data on a web page or the like so that the viewer can view it in real time. In the following description, content data such as image data, audio data, and text data that are distributed to the viewer in live distribution are collectively referred to as distribution data. The camera 100 transmits at least one of the distribution data, image data and audio data, to the distribution server 300.

[0033] Before starting live streaming, a user creates an event on relay server 200 via a communication device such as a PC, smartphone, or tablet device, or camera 100. An event is data including settings related to live streaming, such as the title of the live streaming, the start time of the live streaming, and the bit rate of the video data. Digital camera 100 can also create an event. The distribution server issues a distribution URL and a stream key for each of the one or more events created in this way. The transmission URL is the IP address or URL of the distribution server 300 to which the distribution data is sent. The stream key is a code used to identify the stream.

[0034] When an event is requested by camera 100, distribution server 300 transmits the event to camera 100 via relay server 200. Note that relay server 200 may select information from the event that is required by camera 100 for live distribution, and transmit the selected information to camera 100.

[0035] The process (information processing method) that the relay server 200 executes in accordance with the program will be described below.

[0036] [Camera 100 and live streaming registration process] 5A shows the process in which relay server 200 registers (records) camera 100 in the database. In preparation for this process, camera 100, relay server 200, and distribution server 300 communicate with each other in accordance with HTTP.

[0037] First, in step S501, the camera 100 accepts input of registration information (hereinafter referred to as registration information A) by the user for the camera 100 to access the relay server 200. At this time, the user inputs the registration information A by touching the keyboard displayed on the display unit 106 equipped with a touch panel. The registration information A is information that proves that the user is registered in the relay server 200, and includes an account ID and a password as user identification information for accessing the relay server 200.

[0038] Next, in step S502, the camera 100 establishes a connection with the relay server 200. At this time, the camera 100 accesses the relay server 200 using the registration information A input in step S501.

[0039] Next, in step S503, relay server 200 requests individual identification information of camera 100 from camera 100 in order to use communication for live streaming. The individual identification information of camera 100 is information capable of identifying an individual camera 100, such as a serial number (production number). The individual identification information of camera 100 corresponds to first information used to register camera 100 to relay server 200.

[0040] Next, in step S504, the camera 100 transmits the individual identification information of the camera 100 requested by the relay server 200 to the relay server 200.

[0041] In step S505, the relay server 200 registers in the database the camera information 4101 including the individual identification information (e.g., ABC123456789) received from the camera 100 and the identifier of the camera 100 (e.g., DC-A), as shown in Fig. 4(A). At this time, the relay server 200 creates an identifier for the camera 100. This completes the registration of the camera 100 by the relay server 200.

[0042] In step S501, the camera 100 transmits the registration information A entered by the user to the relay server 200. However, the user may transmit the registration information A to the relay server 200 in other ways, such as by transmitting the registration information A to the relay server 200 from a communication device such as a PC.

[0043] Furthermore, when registering camera information of the same camera 100 (DC-A) or another camera (DC-B) in the database of Fig. 4(A), in step S503, relay server 200 requests the camera information. Then, in step S504, the camera transmits the information requested by relay server 200 to relay server 200. As a result, in step S505, relay server 200 newly registers camera information 4102, 4103 in the database shown in Fig. 4(A).

[0044] FIG. 5B shows the process in which relay server 200 registers information related to live distribution in a database.

[0045] First, in step S551, relay server 200 accepts an input of registration information (hereinafter referred to as registration information B) by the user for relay server 200 to access distribution server 300. At this time, the user inputs registration information B to relay server 200 via camera 100 or a communication device such as a PC or a smartphone. Registration information B is second information used to register a live distribution using a live distribution service, such as the date and time and title of the live distribution.

[0046] Next, in step S552, relay server 200 transmits registration information B input in step S551 to distribution server 300, and requests authentication information from distribution server 300. The authentication information is information indicating that a live distribution corresponding to registration information B has been registered (that is, a predetermined number of registrants (viewers) or more required for live distribution have been registered), and is an account ID and password for relay server 200 to access distribution server 300. Note that these account IDs and passwords may be account IDs and passwords owned by the user, or may be account IDs and passwords of a business operator to which the user requests live distribution.

[0047] Next, in step S553, the relay server 200 receives authentication information from the distribution server 300. The relay server 200 uses this authentication information to access the distribution server 300. The relay server 200 records the authentication information in association with the individual identification number of the camera 100, and transmits the individual identification number of the camera 100 together with the authentication information when accessing the distribution server 300.

[0048] Next, in step S554, the relay server 200 requests information regarding communication settings for live streaming from the distribution server 300 (hereinafter referred to as live streaming information) from the distribution server 300. The live streaming information is information indicating a live streaming identifier, a transmission URL for the streaming data, a stream key, an access token, a communication protocol used by the distribution server 300, and the like.

[0049] Next, in step S555, distribution server 300 transmits the live distribution information requested by relay server 200 to relay server 200.

[0050] Next, in step S556, the relay server 200 registers the live streaming information received in step S555 and the distribution server 300 (cloud service name: Service A) in the database as event information 4201 associated with the individual identification information of the camera 100, as shown in FIG. 4(B).

[0051] 4(B), the relay server 200 requests the live streaming information from the distribution server 300 (Service A) or another distribution server (Service B) in step S554. Then, in steps S555 and S556, the relay server 200 receives the live streaming information from the distribution server and registers the received live streaming information, cloud service name, and event information 4202 and 4203 including individual camera identification information in the database as shown in FIG. 4(B).

[0052] In addition, if the relay server 200 cannot receive information on the communication protocol used for live distribution from the distribution server 300, an administrator of the relay server 200 or the like inputs information on the communication protocol used by the distribution server 300 to the relay server 200.

[0053] Furthermore, the relay server 200 may receive authentication information from the camera 100. In this case, the relay server 200 does not execute the processes of steps S552 and S553.

[0054] [Live streaming processing] Fig. 6 shows the live distribution process in this embodiment. Fig. 7(A) to (C) show examples of screens displayed on display unit 106 of camera 100 in this embodiment. Here, the live distribution process in the case where camera 100 directly transmits distribution data to distribution server 300 will be described.

[0055] 6, steps S601 to S607 show the process in which camera 100 receives an event from distribution server 300 via relay server 200. First, in step S601, camera 100 accepts input of a live distribution instruction by a user touching Live switch 702 on the selection screen shown in Fig. 7(A). When Setting switch 701 in Fig. 7(A) is touched, camera 100 starts the process for registering camera 100 in relay server 200 shown in Fig. 5(A).

[0056] Next, in step S602, camera 100 requests relay server 200 for an event as third information for executing live distribution.

[0057] Next, in step S603, the relay server 200 requests the distribution server 300 to transmit the event requested by the camera 100. When requesting the event from the distribution server 300, the relay server 200 uses authentication information recorded in association with the individual identification number of the camera 100.

[0058] Next, in step S604, the distribution server 300 transmits an event to the relay server 200 as a response to the request in step S603. Here, for example, the distribution server 300 transmits a default event (a distribution URL and a stream key preset for the requested event) to the relay server 200. At this time, the distribution server 300 attaches to the event the individual identification information of the camera 100 that was associated with the authentication information from the relay server 200. Also, in this step, the distribution server 300 becomes ready to accept distribution data from the camera 100. Next, in step S605, relay server 200 judges the event received from distribution server 300. Here, relay server 200 judges whether or not the individual identification information of the camera attached to the event received from distribution server 300 matches the individual identification information of camera 100 in the registered event information shown in FIG. 4(B). The relay server 200 may determine the event using a pre-registered user ID and password, without sending the individual identification information of the camera to the distribution server 300. At this time, it may determine whether the registered distribution URL and the distribution URL sent from the distribution server 300 match.

[0059] Next, in step S606, based on the result of the determination that the individual identification information of the camera associated with the event matches the individual identification information of the camera 100, the relay server 200 transmits the event received in step S604 to the camera 100 registered in association with the event (live distribution). At this time, the relay server 200 transmits the transmission URL and stream key included in the event received in step S604 to the camera 100. As a result, when multiple cameras are registered in the relay server 200 as shown in Figures 4(A) and (B), when an event is received from the distribution server 300, the relay server 200 selects the camera associated with the event and transmits the event to that camera. That is, the events corresponding to each camera are distributed and transmitted.

[0060] In other words, even if multiple live broadcasts at the same date and time associated with different cameras are registered in the database, relay server 200 transmits the event received from distribution server 300 to the camera registered in association with the live broadcast to be performed at that event, and does not transmit the event to other cameras.

[0061] In this embodiment, the case has been described where the individual identification information of the camera is attached to the authentication information and transmitted from the relay server 200 to the distribution server 300. However, if the relay server 200 can determine the camera registered in association with the event received from the distribution server 300 in step S605, it is not necessary to transmit the individual identification information of the camera to the distribution server 300.

[0062] Next, in step S607, camera 100 displays a standby screen shown in Fig. 7(B) on display unit 106 before transmitting distribution data to distribution server 300. Camera 100 displays a live view image on display unit 106 and also displays Live Start switch 703. The user can adjust the angle of view, etc. while referring to the live view image, and prepare for live distribution.

[0063] Having received the event from distribution server 300 via relay server 200 in this manner, camera 100 performs subsequent processing to live-distribute distribution data directly to distribution server 300.

[0064] In step S608, camera 100 accepts input of a live distribution start instruction by user operation of Live Start switch 703. Camera 100 transmits image data generated by imaging after this step and audio data acquired after this step as distribution data to distribution server 300.

[0065] Next, in step S609, camera 100 transmits distribution data to distribution server 300 using the transmission URL and stream key received from relay server 200 in step S606. Camera 100 repeats the process of this step until an instruction to start live distribution is received. By continuously transmitting distribution data to distribution server 300 in this manner, camera 100 can perform live distribution via distribution server 300.

[0066] The distribution server 300 distributes the received distribution data to viewers. FIG. 7(C) shows an example of a display screen on the display unit 106 of the camera 100 during live distribution. This display screen displays "●Live" indicating that live distribution is in progress, information 704 about the live distribution that the camera 100 has received from the distribution server 300, and a Live Stop switch 705. Here, the number of viewers currently watching is displayed as the information 704 about the live distribution. Other information about the live distribution may also be displayed, such as the communication status with the distribution server 300, a numerical value about the evaluation of the live distribution, and comments received from viewers during the live distribution. The camera 100 receives information about the live distribution from the distribution server 300 as appropriate during the live distribution.

[0067] In addition, relay server 200 can also process and modify image data among the distribution data received from camera 100 and transmit the processed data to distribution server 300. For example, when live streaming an event with many participants, if there is an individual who does not have permission to capture images or distribute image data, the resolution of the image of that individual (specific subject) is lowered to ensure the confidentiality of that individual. Also, image data distributed at a sporting event to display team names, scores, etc. may be processed by adding characters or symbols.

[0068] In step S610, the camera 100 accepts an input of an instruction to end live distribution via a user operation of the Live Stop switch 705.

[0069] Next, in step S611, the camera 100 ends recording of captured image data and live distribution.

[0070] Next, in step S612, the camera 100 transmits a request to the relay server 200 to end the live distribution.

[0071] Next, in step S613, relay server 200 requests distribution server 300 to end the live distribution based on the request received in step S612.

[0072] Next, in step S614, distribution server 300 transmits a notification indicating that the live distribution has ended to relay server 200 as a response to the request received in step S613.

[0073] Next, in step S615, based on the notification received in step S614, relay server 200 transmits a notification indicating that live streaming has ended to camera 100. Through the above processing, live streaming from camera 100 ends.

[0074] In this way, if camera 100 can use the communication protocol of distribution server 300, camera 100 can transmit distribution data directly to distribution server 300 for live distribution.

[0075] [Camera 100 Processing] The flowchart in Fig. 8 shows the process executed by the control unit 101 of the camera 100 in the live streaming process. The control unit 101 executes this process in accordance with a program recorded in the non-volatile memory 103 and loaded into the working memory 104. The control unit 101 starts in response to receiving an instruction to start live streaming (step S601 in Fig. 6) through the user's operation of the Live switch 702 shown in Fig. 7(A).

[0076] Next, in step S801, the control unit 101 transmits a packet requesting an event to the relay server 200 via the connection unit 111. This step corresponds to step S602 in FIG.

[0077] Next, in step S802, the control unit 101 determines whether or not an event has been received from the relay server 200 via the connection unit 111. Having received the event, the control unit 101 stores the received event in the working memory 104, and performs processing in the next step S803. The control unit 101 repeats this processing until an event is received. This step corresponds to step S606 in FIG. 6.

[0078] In step S803, the control unit 101 displays the standby screen shown in Fig. 7(B) on the display unit 106. This step corresponds to step S607 in Fig. 6.

[0079] Next, in step S804, the control unit 101 determines whether or not a live distribution start instruction input by a user operation of the Live Start switch 703 has been received. The control unit 101 that has received the live distribution start instruction input performs the process of step S805. The control unit 101 repeats this process until the control unit 101 receives the live distribution start instruction input. This step corresponds to step S608 in FIG. 6.

[0080] In step S805, the control unit 101 transmits distribution data to the distribution server 300 via the connection unit 111 based on the event received in step S802. The distribution data is image data and audio data generated and acquired after step S805. The control unit 101 holds the distribution data in the working memory 104, and transmits the stored distribution data to the distribution server 300 via the connection unit 111 when a predetermined amount of distribution data or more is stored in the working memory 104. As shown in FIG. 7(C), the control unit 101 displays a live view image, "●Live" indicating that live distribution is in progress, and information 704 related to live distribution on the display unit 106. The control unit 101 also displays a Live Stop switch 705 on the display unit 106. The control unit 101 continues transmitting the distribution data until it receives an input of an instruction to end the live distribution. This step corresponds to step S609 in FIG. 6.

[0081] Next, in step S906, the control unit 101 determines whether or not an input of an instruction to end live streaming by a user operation of the Live Stop switch 705 has been received. If the control unit 101 has received an instruction to end live streaming, it performs the process of step S807. On the other hand, if the control unit 101 has not received an instruction to end live streaming, it continues the live streaming in step S805. This step corresponds to step S610 in FIG. 6.

[0082] In step S807, control unit 101 ends the transmission of the distribution data. This step corresponds to step S611 in FIG.

[0083] Next, in step S808, control unit 101 requests relay server 200 to end the live distribution process. This step corresponds to step S612 in FIG.

[0084] Next, in step S809, control unit 101 receives a notification from relay server 200 indicating that the live distribution process has ended, and ends this process. If this notification is not received even after a predetermined time has elapsed, control unit 101 executes the process of step S808 again. This step corresponds to step S615 in FIG. 6.

[0085] [Processing of Relay Server 200] 9 shows a processing method for live distribution executed by the control unit 201 of the relay server 200. The control unit 201 executes this processing in accordance with a program recorded in the non-volatile memory 203 and loaded in the working memory 204.

[0086] In step S901, the control unit 201 determines whether or not a packet requesting an event has been received from the camera 100. Upon receiving this request packet, the control unit 201 performs the process of step S902. The control unit 201 repeats the process of this step until it receives the request packet. However, if the control unit 201 has not received the request packet even after a predetermined time has elapsed, the control unit 201 may end this process. This step corresponds to step S602 in FIG. 6.

[0087] In step S902, control unit 201 transmits a packet requesting an event to distribution server 300 via connection unit 211. At this time, control unit 201 uses authentication information to request the event from distribution server 300. This step corresponds to step S603 in FIG.

[0088] In step S903, control unit 201 determines whether or not an event has been received from distribution server 300 via connection unit 211. Having received the event, control unit 201 performs the process of step S904. Control unit 201 repeats the process of this step until an event is received. However, if an event cannot be received even after a predetermined time has elapsed, control unit 201 may request an event from camera 100. This step corresponds to step S604 in FIG. 6.

[0089] In step S904, control unit 201 refers to the database shown in Fig. 4(B) and determines whether the camera serial number attached to the event received from distribution server 300 in step S903 matches the serial number of camera 100. If the serial numbers match, control unit 201 performs the process of step S905. On the other hand, if the serial numbers do not match, control unit 201 requests a new event in step S902. This step corresponds to step S605 in Fig. 6.

[0090] By having relay server 200 determine the serial numbers of camera 100 and distribution server 300 in this manner, camera 100 does not need to perform processing to determine the event received from distribution server 300 .

[0091] In step S905, the control unit 201 transmits the event received from the distribution server 300 to the camera 100. This step corresponds to step S606 in FIG.

[0092] Next, in step S906, the control unit 201 determines whether or not a packet requesting the end of live streaming has been received from the camera 100. The control unit 201 repeats the process of this step until this request packet is received. Upon receiving the request packet for ending live streaming, the control unit 201 performs the process of step S907. This step corresponds to step S612 in FIG. 6.

[0093] In step S907, control unit 201 transmits a packet requesting the end of live distribution to distribution server 300. This step corresponds to step S614 in FIG.

[0094] Next, in step S908, control unit 201 receives a notification indicating that live distribution has ended from distribution server 300. This step corresponds to step S613 in FIG.

[0095] Next, in step S909, the control unit 201 transmits a notification indicating that the live distribution has ended to the camera 100. This step corresponds to step S615 in FIG.

[0096] In this manner, relay server 200 judges the events registered in camera 100 and distribution server 300. This allows the user to perform live distribution at the desired date and time through camera 100, regardless of the amount of events managed by distribution server 300.

[0097] According to this embodiment, even if the user does not perform complicated settings on the camera 100, live distribution can be performed using a network distribution service.

[0098] The above embodiment includes the following configurations.

[0099] (Configuration 1) An information processing device used when distributing distribution data generated by an imaging device via a distribution server of a network distribution service, comprising: a registration means for acquiring first information for registering the imaging device and second information for registering the distribution of the distribution data, and registering the imaging device and the distribution in association with each other; a control means for transmitting the second information to the distribution server and receiving third information for executing the distribution, the third information being created by the distribution server based on the second information; The information processing device, wherein the control means transmits the third information to the imaging device that is registered in association with the distribution. (Configuration 2) The information processing device described in configuration 1, characterized in that when multiple broadcasts of the same date and time corresponding to different imaging devices are registered by the registration means, the control means transmits the third information to the imaging device registered in association with the broadcast to be executed using the third information, and does not transmit the third information to other imaging devices. (Configuration 3) The information processing device according to configuration 1 or 2, characterized in that the control means transmits the first information to the distribution server in addition to the second information, and receives the third information accompanied by the first information from the distribution server. (Configuration 4) 4. The information processing device according to any one of configurations 1 to 3, wherein the first information includes individual identification information of the imaging device. (Configuration 5) 5. The information processing device according to any one of configurations 1 to 4, wherein the second information includes a date and time of the distribution. (Configuration 6) 6. The information processing device according to any one of configurations 1 to 5, wherein the registration means acquires the first information and the second information from the imaging device or from a communication device capable of communicating with the information processing device. (Configuration 7) 7. The information processing device according to any one of configurations 1 to 6, wherein the third information includes an address of a destination of the distribution data and a stream key. (Configuration 8) 8. The information processing device according to any one of configurations 1 to 7, wherein the control means performs image processing to lower a resolution of a specific subject in image data included in the distribution data. (Configuration 9) 9. The information processing device according to any one of configurations 1 to 8, wherein the network distribution service is a cloud service that utilizes streaming technology. (Configuration 10) 10. The information processing device according to any one of configurations 1 to 9, wherein the network distribution service is a live distribution service. (Configuration 11) acquiring the third information from the information processing device according to any one of configurations 1 to 10; An imaging device, characterized in that the distribution is performed using the third information. (Configuration 12) An information processing device according to any one of configurations 1 to 10; The distribution server, A distribution system, characterized in that the imaging device performs the distribution using the third information.

[0100] (Other Examples) The present invention can also be realized by a process in which a program for implementing one or more of the functions of the above-described embodiments is supplied to a system or device via a network or a storage medium, and one or more processors in a computer of the system or device read and execute the program. The present invention can also be realized by a circuit (e.g., ASIC) that implements one or more of the functions.

[0101] The embodiments described above are merely representative examples, and various modifications and alterations are possible for each embodiment when implementing the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0102] 100 Digital Camera 200 Relay Server 300 Distribution Server

Claims

1. An information processing device used when distributing distribution data generated by an imaging device via a distribution server of a network distribution service, comprising: a registration means for acquiring first information for registering the imaging device and second information for registering the distribution of the distribution data, and registering the imaging device and the distribution in association with each other; a control means for transmitting the second information to the distribution server and receiving third information for executing the distribution, the third information being created by the distribution server based on the second information; the control means transmits the third information to the imaging device registered in association with the distribution to be performed using the third information; The information processing device is characterized in that the second information includes a date and time of the distribution.

2. The information processing device described in claim 1, characterized in that when multiple broadcasts of the same date and time corresponding to different imaging devices are registered by the registration means, the control means transmits the third information to the imaging device registered in correspondence with the broadcast to be executed using the third information, and does not transmit it to other imaging devices.

3. 2. The information processing device according to claim 1, wherein the control means transmits the first information to the distribution server in addition to the second information, and receives the third information accompanied by the first information from the distribution server.

4. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the first information includes individual identification information of the imaging device.

5. 2. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the registration means acquires the first information and the second information from the imaging device or from a communication device capable of communicating with the information processing apparatus.

6. 2. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the third information includes a destination address of the distribution data and a stream key.

7. 2. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control means performs image processing to lower the resolution of a specific subject in the image data included in the distribution data.

8. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the network distribution service is a cloud service that uses streaming technology.

9. 2. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the network distribution service is a live distribution service.

10. The third information is acquired from the information processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, The imaging device performs the distribution using the third information.

11. An information processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 9; the distribution server, The delivery system is characterized in that the imaging device performs the delivery using the third information.

12. 1. An information processing method for distributing distribution data generated by an imaging device via a distribution server of a network distribution service, comprising: acquiring first information for registering the imaging device and second information for registering distribution of the distribution data, and registering the imaging device and the distribution in association with each other; transmitting the second information to the distribution server, and receiving third information for executing the distribution, the third information being created by the distribution server based on the second information; transmitting the third information to the imaging device that is registered in association with the distribution that is executed using the third information; 2. An information processing method, wherein the second information includes a date and time of the distribution.

13. A program causing a computer to execute a process according to the information processing method of claim 12.

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