System, method, and program for distributing moving images

Abstract

To support appropriate evaluation for a person who distributes moving images.SOLUTION: A moving image distribution server 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention provides a moving image distribution service for moving image distribution and viewing to a user via a user terminal 30. The server 10 determines, for each of a plurality of distributors, a viewer who satisfies predetermined condition related to action of viewing a moving image provided by each distributor and, based on at least the number of such viewers, executes predetermined processing for evaluating each distributor, which therefore makes it possible to appropriately evaluate the distributors based on the number of viewers with a given viewing action.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a system, method, and program for distributing moving images. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, various services have been provided for distributing videos provided by distributors to multiple viewers (see, for example, Patent Document 1 below). Furthermore, in these services, evaluations such as rankings of distributors are conducted for the purpose of promoting video distribution, etc. Such evaluations are typically conducted based on the distribution behavior of the distributor, such as the number of days of distribution and the duration of distribution. Furthermore, such evaluations may be further conducted based on the viewing behavior of the viewer, such as the number of comments / items entered by the viewer. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2019-022219 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, in conventional video distribution services, for example, the rating of a distributor with a small number of enthusiastic fans may be high only due to the very active viewing behavior of such fans (e.g., inputting a large number of items, etc.). As a result, if a distributor focuses on having a small number of enthusiastic fans, the increase in the number of viewers for the entire service is suppressed, and the activation of the service is hindered.

[0005] One of the objects of the embodiment of the present invention is to support appropriate evaluation of video distributors. Other objects of the embodiment of the present invention will become apparent by referring to the entire specification. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] A system according to one embodiment of the present invention is a system for distributing videos, comprising one or more computer processors, wherein the one or more computer processors, in response to execution of readable instructions, perform the following processes: distributing videos provided by each of a plurality of distributors to a plurality of viewers; determining, for each of the plurality of distributors, viewers who satisfy specified conditions related to the viewing behavior of the videos provided by each of the plurality of distributors; and performing specified processing to evaluate each of the plurality of distributors based at least on the number of viewers who satisfy the specified conditions for each of the plurality of distributors.

[0007] A method according to one embodiment of the present invention is executed by one or more computers and is a method for distributing videos, comprising the steps of: distributing videos provided by each of a plurality of distributors to a plurality of viewers; determining, for each of the plurality of distributors, viewers who satisfy predetermined conditions related to viewing behavior of the videos provided by each of the plurality of distributors; and executing predetermined processing to evaluate each of the plurality of distributors based at least on the number of viewers who satisfy the predetermined conditions for each of the plurality of distributors.

[0008] A program according to one embodiment of the present invention is a program for distributing videos, which, when executed on one or more computers, causes the one or more computers to execute the following processes: a process of distributing videos provided by each of a plurality of distributors to a plurality of viewers; a process of determining, for each of the plurality of distributors, viewers who satisfy specified conditions related to the viewing behavior of the videos provided by each of the plurality of distributors; and a process of executing specified processes to evaluate each of the plurality of distributors based at least on the number of viewers who satisfy the specified conditions for each of the plurality of distributors. Effect of the Invention

[0009] Various embodiments of the present invention support proper crediting of video distributors. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a network including a video distribution server 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 2] 1 is a block diagram showing the functions of a video distribution server 10. [Diagram 3] 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of information managed in a user information table 411. [Figure 4] FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining ranks. [Diagram 5] 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of information managed in a distribution management table 412. [Figure 6] 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of information managed in a condition satisfaction status management table 413. [Figure 7] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a top screen 60. [Figure 8] FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating a distribution screen 70. [Figure 9] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating a viewing screen 80. [Figure 10] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of an item selection screen 100. [Figure 11] 4 is a flow diagram illustrating a process executed by the server 10 when updating a rank. [Figure 12] FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining an update rule for a rank meter value. [Figure 13] 11 is a diagram for explaining the correspondence between update contents of rank and required rank meter value. [Figure 14] FIG. 4 is a flow diagram illustrating a process executed by the server 10 when awarding diamonds. [Figure 15] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating a distribution screen 70 during an event. [Figure 16] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of the correspondence between the number and level of supporters and coefficients for calculating event points. [Figure 17] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating a support team details screen 200. [Figure 18] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of a viewing screen 80 during an event. [Figure 19] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating a support team details screen 200A. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0011] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0012] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a network including a video distribution server 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in the figure, the video distribution server 10 is communicably connected to a user terminal 30 via a communication network 20 such as the Internet. Although only one user terminal 30 is shown in FIG. 1, the server 10 is communicably connected to a plurality of user terminals 30. The video distribution server 10 provides a video distribution service for distributing and viewing videos to a user via the user terminal 30. In this embodiment, a user who operates the user terminal 30 can distribute videos as a distributor, and can also view videos provided by other users as a viewer. The video distribution server 10 is an example of a device that implements a part or all of the system of the present invention.

[0013] The video distribution server 10 is configured as a general computer, and as shown in FIG. 1, includes a computer processor 11, a main memory 12, an input / output I / F 13, a communication I / F 14, and a storage (memory device) 15, with each of these components being electrically connected via a bus or the like (not shown).

[0014] The computer processor 11 is configured as a CPU, a GPU, or the like, and loads various programs stored in a storage 15 or the like into a main memory 12, and executes various instructions included in the programs. The main memory 12 is configured, for example, by a DRAM or the like.

[0015] The input / output I / F 13 includes various input / output devices for exchanging information with a user, etc. The input / output I / F 13 includes, for example, an information input device such as a keyboard, a pointing device (e.g., a mouse, a touch panel, etc.), an audio input device such as a microphone, and an image input device such as a camera. The input / output I / F 13 also includes an image output device such as a display, and an audio output device such as a speaker.

[0016] The communication I / F 14 is implemented as hardware such as a network adapter, various communication software, or a combination of these, and is configured to realize wired or wireless communication via a communication network 20 or the like.

[0017] The storage 15 is configured by, for example, a magnetic disk, a flash memory, etc. The storage 15 stores various programs including an operating system, various data, and the like.

[0018] In this embodiment, the video distribution server 10 may be configured using a plurality of computers each having the above-described hardware configuration. For example, the video distribution server 10 may be configured by one or a plurality of server devices.

[0019] The video distribution server 10 thus configured can be configured to have the functions of a web server and an application server, in which case it executes various processes in response to requests from a web browser and other applications (e.g., applications for video distribution services) installed in the user terminal 30, and transmits screen data (e.g., HTML data) and control data according to the results of the processes to the user terminal 30. The user terminal 30 can display a web page or other screen based on the received data.

[0020] The user terminal 30 is configured as a general computer, and as shown in FIG. 1, includes a computer processor 31, a main memory 32, an input / output I / F 33, a communication I / F 34, and a storage (memory device) 35, with each of these components being electrically connected via a bus or the like (not shown).

[0021] The computer processor 31 is configured as a CPU, a GPU, or the like, and loads various programs stored in a storage 35 or the like into a main memory 32 and executes various instructions included in the programs. The main memory 32 is configured, for example, by a DRAM or the like.

[0022] The input / output I / F 33 includes various input / output devices for exchanging information with a user, etc. The input / output I / F 33 includes, for example, an information input device such as a keyboard, a pointing device (e.g., a mouse, a touch panel, etc.), an audio input device such as a microphone, and an image input device such as a camera. The input / output I / F 33 also includes an image output device such as a display, and an audio output device such as a speaker.

[0023] The communication I / F 34 is implemented as hardware such as a network adapter, various communication software, or a combination of these, and is configured to realize wired or wireless communication via the communication network 20 or the like.

[0024] The storage 35 is configured by, for example, a magnetic disk or a flash memory, etc. The storage 35 stores various programs including an operating system, various data, etc. The programs stored in the storage 35 can be downloaded from an application market, etc., and installed.

[0025] In this embodiment, the user terminal 30 may be configured as a smartphone, a tablet terminal, a personal computer, a wearable device, or the like.

[0026] A user operating a user terminal 30 configured in this manner can use the video distribution service provided by the video distribution server 10 by communicating with the video distribution server 10 via a web browser or other application installed in storage 35, etc.

[0027] Next, the functions of the video distribution server 10 of the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the functions of the video distribution server 10. As shown in the figure, the server 10 has an information storage management unit 41 that stores and manages various information, a basic function control unit 43 that controls basic functions of the video distribution service, a video distribution control unit 45 that controls the distribution of videos, and a user evaluation unit 47 that executes processing related to user evaluations. These functions are realized by the cooperation of hardware such as the computer processor 11 and the main memory 12, and various programs and data stored in the storage 15, etc., and are realized, for example, by the computer processor 11 executing instructions included in a program loaded into the main memory 12. In addition, some or all of the functions of the server 10 shown in FIG. 2 can be realized by the cooperation of the server 10 and the user terminal 30, or by the user terminal 30.

[0028] The information storage management unit 41 of the video distribution server 10 stores and manages various information in the storage 15 etc. As shown in Fig. 2, for example, the information storage management unit 41 is configured to have a user information table 411 that manages information about users of the video distribution service, a distribution management table 412 that manages information about distribution of individual videos, and a condition satisfaction status management table 413 that manages the satisfaction status by viewers of predetermined conditions related to viewing behavior.

[0029] The basic function control unit 43 of the video distribution server 10 executes various processes related to the control of the basic functions of the video distribution service. For example, the basic function control unit 43 transmits screen data or control data of various screens related to the basic functions to the user terminal 30, executes various processes in response to operation input by the user via the screen displayed on the user terminal 30, and transmits screen data or control data according to the results of the processes to the user terminal 30. The basic functions controlled by the basic function control unit 43 include, for example, login processing (user authentication), billing control, and user management (for example, updating the user information table 411, etc.).

[0030] The video distribution control unit 45 of the video distribution server 10 executes various processes related to the control of video distribution. For example, the video distribution control unit 45 is configured to distribute videos provided by each of a plurality of distributors to a plurality of viewers. For example, the video distribution control unit 45 is configured to receive live videos transmitted from a user terminal 30 of the distributor (hereinafter, sometimes referred to as a "distributor terminal 30") and transmit the live videos to each user terminal 30 of a plurality of viewers (hereinafter, sometimes referred to as a "viewer terminal 30"). The live videos are, for example, composed of an image input via a camera of the distributor terminal 30 and an audio input via a microphone. Such live video distribution may be performed by a streaming method using a protocol such as HTTP Live Streaming (HLS). Also, for example, the video distribution control unit 45 is configured to receive in advance a video provided by a distributor from the distributor terminal 30, store it in the storage 15, etc., and transmit the video to the viewer terminal 30 in response to a request from a viewer via the viewer terminal 30.

[0031] The user evaluation unit 47 of the video distribution server 10 executes various processes related to user evaluation. In this embodiment, the user evaluation unit 47 is configured to determine, for each distributor, viewers who satisfy a predetermined condition related to the viewing behavior of the video provided by each distributor, and execute a predetermined process to evaluate each distributor based at least on the number of such viewers. Information regarding the satisfaction status of the predetermined condition of each viewer is managed, for example, in the condition satisfaction status management table 413. A viewer with viewing behavior that satisfies a predetermined condition can be defined, for example, as a "fan" of the corresponding distributor.

[0032] In this way, the video distribution server 10 in this embodiment determines, for each of a plurality of distributors, viewers (e.g., fans) who satisfy a predetermined condition regarding the viewing behavior of the video provided by each distributor, and executes a predetermined process for evaluating each distributor based at least on the number of such viewers, thereby enabling appropriate evaluation of the distributor based on the number of viewers with a certain viewing behavior. In this way, the server 10 supports appropriate evaluation of video distributors.

[0033] In this embodiment, the predetermined process may include various processes for evaluating the distributor. For example, the predetermined process includes a process for calculating a predetermined point for setting a ranking of the distributor. In this case, the user evaluation unit 47 is configured to calculate the predetermined point based on the number of viewers who satisfy a predetermined condition, and, for example, the predetermined point is configured to be larger (higher evaluation) as the number of viewers increases. Such a configuration supports appropriate ranking of distributors based on the number of viewers with a certain viewing behavior.

[0034] In this embodiment, the ranking of distributors may be configured as a ranking in a specific event having a predetermined period. In such an event, a predetermined reward (such as electronic and virtual rewards available in a video distribution service or real rewards) is typically given to distributors who rank high in the ranking. For example, the user evaluation unit 47 may be configured to determine viewers who satisfy a predetermined condition in a predetermined period corresponding to the specific event (for example, to determine whether or not the predetermined condition is satisfied based on actual viewing behavior in the predetermined period), calculate a predetermined point based on the number of viewers, and set a ranking of distributors based on the predetermined point. Such a configuration supports appropriate ranking of distributors in a time-limited event.

[0035] In this embodiment, the predetermined condition may include various conditions related to the viewing behavior of the viewer of the video. For example, the predetermined condition may include a condition that the values ​​of one or more parameters related to the viewing behavior are within a predetermined range (e.g., equal to or greater than a predetermined value).

[0036] For example, the predetermined condition includes a condition related to the amount of viewing of the video (e.g., viewing time, number of views, number of days viewed, etc.), such as a condition that the value of a parameter related to the amount of viewing of the video is within a predetermined range (e.g., the viewing time is equal to or greater than a predetermined value, etc.). Such a configuration enables appropriate evaluation of a distributor based on the number of viewers with a certain amount of viewing of the video.

[0037] Furthermore, for example, the predetermined conditions include conditions regarding the amount (e.g., number of inputs, etc.) of input information (e.g., comments and items, etc.) input while watching a video, and include, for example, a condition that the value of a parameter regarding the amount of input information is within a predetermined range (e.g., the number of comments is equal to or greater than a predetermined value, etc.). For example, a condition regarding the input amount of a paid item includes a condition regarding the amount of compensation for the input item (e.g., number of coins, etc.). Such a configuration enables appropriate evaluation of a distributor based on the number of viewers who input a certain amount of input information.

[0038] In this embodiment, the distribution screen / viewing screen displayed on the distributor terminal 30 / viewer terminal 30 during video distribution can be configured to display information (e.g., the number / list of such viewers) about viewers who satisfy a predetermined condition of the corresponding distributor (distributor providing the video being distributed). Such a configuration enables the distributor / viewer to know information about viewers who satisfy the predetermined condition during video distribution, and as a result, viewing behavior by viewers aimed at satisfying the predetermined condition can be promoted.

[0039] In addition, in this embodiment, the distribution screen / viewing screen may be configured to display a predetermined message in response to the viewer's satisfaction of a predetermined condition. The message may include information that can identify the viewer who has satisfied the predetermined condition (e.g., the account name of the viewer). This configuration allows the distributor / viewer to know whether any viewer has satisfied the predetermined condition during the distribution of a video, and as a result, the viewer's viewing behavior toward the satisfaction of the predetermined condition may be promoted.

[0040] Also, the user evaluation unit 47 may be configured to present to the viewer information regarding the viewer's satisfaction of a predetermined condition. For example, the user evaluation unit 47 may be configured to transmit screen data of a screen including the viewer's own satisfaction of a predetermined condition to the viewer terminal 30 in response to a request from the viewer via the viewer terminal 30. The satisfaction of the predetermined condition includes information regarding the difference between the value of a parameter related to viewing behavior required to satisfy the condition and the actual parameter value. Also, for example, the satisfaction of the predetermined condition of the viewer may be presented to the viewer via a viewing screen displayed on the viewer terminal 30 during the distribution of a video. Such a configuration enables the viewer to know the satisfaction of the predetermined condition of the viewer, and as a result, the viewer's viewing behavior toward the satisfaction of the predetermined condition may be promoted.

[0041] Next, a specific example of the video distribution server 10 of the present embodiment having such functions will be described. The video distribution service in this example is configured as a live video distribution service in which live videos provided by a distributor are distributed to viewers in real time.

[0042] 3 illustrates information managed in the user information table 411 in this example. The user information table 411 manages information about users of the live video distribution service, and as illustrated, in association with a "user account" that identifies an individual user, manages information such as "basic information" including account name, age, sex, etc., "distribution history information" that is information about the distribution history of live videos, "viewing history information" that is information about the viewing history of live videos distributed by other users, "following user information" that is information about other users followed by this user, "follower information" that is information about other users (followers) following this user, "family information" that is information about a family to which this user belongs as a family member, "rank" that indicates the rank of the user as a distributor, "rank meter value" that is a parameter value for determining rank up / down, "coin holding number" that indicates the number of virtual coins held in the live video distribution service, "diamond holding number" that indicates the number of virtual diamonds held, and "event points" (predetermined points) that are points acquired by this user as a distributor in a time-limited event.

[0043] A family is a community (group) for supporting a particular broadcaster, and a user can join (become a family member) through approval by the family's administrator, etc. Family information includes information that can identify each of one or more families to which the user belongs.

[0044] FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining the "rank" of a distributor in this example. As shown in the figure, in this example, there are six rank bands, "S", "A", "B", "C", "D" and "E", and each of the five rank bands, "S", "A", "B", "C", and "D", is composed of three ranks (for example, ranks with "+" added to the alphabet indicating the rank band, ranks with only the alphabet, and ranks with "-" added to the alphabet, such as "S+", "S", and "S-"). In addition, the rank band "E" is composed of one rank "E". In other words, in this example, there are 16 ranks (3×5+1=16).

[0045] In addition, the rank band is the highest on the "S" side and the lowest on the "E" side. In addition, within the same rank band, the rank is the highest on the "+" side and the lowest on the "-" side. In this example, the user's rank is set to "D-" as the initial value.

[0046] 5 illustrates information managed in the distribution management table 412 in this example. The distribution management table 412 manages information related to distribution of individual live videos, and as shown in the figure, manages information such as a "distributor user account" that identifies the distributor of this distribution, a "distribution date and time", a "distribution duration" that indicates the duration of the distribution, a "number of viewers (current value and maximum value)", a "number of comments" that is the number of comments entered by the viewers, a "number of likes" that is the number of "likes" entered by the viewers, "item points" that increase according to the input of items by the viewers, and "distribution points" that are points granted for this distribution, in association with a "distribution ID" that identifies an individual distribution (live video).

[0047] 6 illustrates information managed in the condition satisfaction status management table 413 in this example. The condition satisfaction status management table 413 manages information related to the satisfaction status of a viewer of a predetermined condition related to viewing behavior, and as shown in the figure, manages information such as "number of coins consumed for item," which is the number of coins consumed in accordance with the input of an item, "number of comment inputs," "viewing time," "number of days viewed," and "date and time when the viewer satisfied the predetermined condition," in association with a combination of an "event ID" that identifies an individual event, a "distributor user account" that identifies an individual distributor, and a "viewer user account" that identifies an individual viewer.

[0048] In this example, which will be described in detail later, viewers who satisfy certain conditions related to the viewing behavior of a live video provided by a broadcaster during a limited-time event are managed as the broadcaster's supporters. The condition satisfaction status management table 413 manages the values ​​of parameters (number of item coins consumed, number of comments entered, viewing time, number of days viewed) related to the viewing behavior of the corresponding viewer for the corresponding broadcaster's live video during the corresponding event period.

[0049] 7 illustrates an example of a top screen 60 of the live video streaming service displayed on the user terminal 30. The screen 60 is a starting point for users who use the live video streaming service, and as shown in the figure, has a selection area 62 displaying "Follow," "Popular," and "All," a list display area 64 located below the area 62, and a circular streaming start button 66 located in the upper right corner of the screen.

[0050] The selection area 62 is an area for selecting the display contents in the list display area 64. Specifically, when "Follow" is selected in the selection area 62, live videos currently being distributed by other users whom the user is following are displayed in a list in the list display area 64. Similarly, when "Popular" is selected in the selection area 62, live videos extracted according to a predetermined extraction condition for extracting popular videos (for example, live videos with a viewer count (current value) equal to or greater than a threshold value, etc.) are displayed in a list in the list display area 64. Furthermore, when "All" is selected in the selection area 62, all live videos currently being distributed are displayed in a list in the list display area 64.

[0051] 7, the list display area 64 has a plurality of individual display areas 641 arranged in two columns, each of which displays information about an individual live video. The individual display areas 641 are configured to display a still image preset by the distributor of the live video, the distributor's account name, the number of viewers (current value), and the like, and to allow the user to start viewing the corresponding live video in response to a selection by the user. The list display area 64 is configured so that the displayed individual display areas 641 can be switched by a flick operation / slide operation in the up and down directions, and the like.

[0052] The distribution start button 66 is an object for the user to start distribution of a live video as a distributor. When the distribution start button 66 is selected by the user, distribution of the live video is started, and specifically, transmission of a video composed of an image input via the camera of the user terminal 30 and an audio input via the microphone of the user terminal 30 to the server 10 is started. In addition, in response to the start of distribution of the live video, a new record is created in the distribution management table 412.

[0053] 8 illustrates a distribution screen 70 displayed on the distributor terminal 30 in response to selection of the distribution start button 66 (i.e., start of distribution of a live video). As shown in the figure, the screen 70 has a video display area 71 corresponding to the entire screen, a basic information display area 72 located in the upper left corner of the screen, a comment display area 73 located in the lower left corner of the screen, and a circular distribution stop button 76 located in the center of the bottom edge of the screen.

[0054] The video display area 71 displays the live video being distributed, that is, the image input via the camera of the distributor terminal 30. Since the distributor usually shoots himself / herself via the in-camera of the distributor terminal 30, the live video being distributed includes the distributor himself / herself.

[0055] The basic information display area 72 displays basic information about this broadcast, specifically, broadcaster information (profile image, etc.), the number of viewers of this broadcast (current value), and the number of “likes” entered by viewers in response to this broadcast, etc.

[0056] The comment display area 73 displays user comments input by the viewer or system comments automatically input by the server 10 (for example, a system comment notifying the viewer that viewing has begun (entering the broadcast room), etc.), and specifically, in this area 73, a plurality of comment objects 731, each corresponding to an individual comment, are arranged vertically. The comment display area 73 is configured so that when a new comment is input, a corresponding comment object 731 is added to the bottom, and existing comment objects 731 move in order upward. The comment display area 73 is configured so that the comment objects 731 displayed are switched by an upward or downward flick operation / slide operation, etc.

[0057] The distribution stop button 76 is an object for the distributor to stop distribution of the live video. When the distributor selects the distribution stop button 76, distribution of the live video (transmission of the live video from the distributor terminal 30 to the server 10) is stopped.

[0058] 9 illustrates a viewing screen 80 displayed on the viewer terminal 30. For example, when a viewer selects an arbitrary live video via the list display area 64 of the top screen 60, a viewing screen 80 for viewing the selected live video is displayed on the viewer terminal 30. As shown in the figure, the screen 80 has a video display area 81, a basic information display area 82, and a comment display area 83, similar to the above-mentioned distribution screen 70. In addition, the viewing screen 80 has, at the bottom end of the screen, a comment input area 86, a "Like" button 87 with a heart mark displayed, and an item input button 88 with a gift design displayed.

[0059] The comment input area 86 is an area for a viewer to input a comment. In addition, a transmission object 861 is disposed at the right end of the area 86, and when the object 861 is selected, the character string input in the comment input area 86 is transmitted as a user comment. When the user comment is transmitted, a comment object 731, 831 corresponding to the comment is added to the comment display area 73, 83 of the distribution screen 70 of the distributor terminal 30 and the viewing screen 80 of each viewer terminal 30, respectively. The comment object 731, 831 corresponding to the user comment displays the comment itself (character string) together with the account name of the viewer who input the comment. In addition, when a comment is input, the number of comments in the distribution management table 412 is updated (1 is added).

[0060] The like button 87 is an object for a viewer to input a "like" to a distributor. When the button 87 is selected by a viewer, a "like" is input and a system comment regarding the input of the "like" is input, and a corresponding comment object 731, 831 is added to the comment display area 73, 83. In the comment object 731, 831 corresponding to the system comment regarding the input of the "like", a text indicating that the "like" has been made is displayed together with the account name of the viewer who input the "like". In addition, when a "like" is input, a predetermined visual effect (for example, an animation effect in which a heart-shaped object is displayed flowing from the bottom to the top of the screen) is added to the video display area 71, 81. In addition, when a "like" is input, the "number of likes" in the distribution management table 412 is updated (1 is added).

[0061] The item input button 88 is an object that allows the viewer to input an item. When the button 88 is selected by the viewer, an item selection screen 100, as shown in FIG. 10, is displayed superimposed on the viewing screen 80. As shown in the figure, the screen 100 displays a list of multiple individual display areas 102, each of which displays information related to an item. The individual display areas 102 display an image corresponding to the item and the number of coins required to input the item.

[0062] In this example, a plurality of items that can be input by the viewer are determined in advance, and a number of coins is set in advance as the price (value, compensation) of each item. The item selection screen 100 displays a list of the plurality of items that can be input. When a viewer selects one of the items via the item selection screen 100, the selected item is input.

[0063] When an item is input, a system comment regarding the input of the item is input, and a corresponding comment object 731, 831 is added to the comment display area 73, 83. The comment object 731, 831 corresponding to the system comment regarding the input of the item displays the name of the input item together with the account name of the viewer who input the item. When an item is input, a visual effect corresponding to the input item is added to the video display area 71, 81. When an item is input, item points according to the number of coins of the input item (for example, the more coins, the more points.) are granted to this distribution, and are added to the item points of the corresponding distribution in the distribution management table 412. When an item is input, the number of coins of the input item is subtracted from the number of coins owned by the corresponding user (the viewer who input the item) in the user information table 411.

[0064] When the distributor selects the distribution stop button 76 on the distribution screen 70, the distribution of the live video ends. When the distribution of the live video ends, the server 10 sets distribution points for that distribution. In this example, the distribution points are calculated based on the number of viewers (maximum value), the number of likes, the number of comments, and the item points. The distribution points are configured to increase as the number of viewers (maximum value), the number of likes, the number of comments, and the item points increase. The calculated distribution points are registered in the distribution management table 412.

[0065] In this example, the rank of the day is determined (updated) based on the distribution points acquired by the user on the previous day. Fig. 11 is a flow diagram illustrating the process executed by the server 10 when updating the rank of each user. These processes are executed every night (for example, at 3:00 a.m. every day).

[0066] First, the server 10 updates the rank meter value of each user as shown in FIG. 11 (step S200). FIG. 12 is a diagram for explaining the update rule of the rank meter value. As shown in the figure, in this example, the rank meter value fluctuates based on the ranking of the delivery points acquired by the user on the previous day within the rank band to which the user belongs. The delivery points acquired by a specific user on the previous day are calculated by referring to the distributor user account, delivery date and time, and delivery points in the delivery management table 412. Note that if a user makes multiple deliveries in one day, the delivery points acquired in each of the multiple deliveries are added together.

[0067] Specifically, as shown in FIG. 12, the update rule for the rank meter value is that first, if the ranking of a distribution point within a rank band is included in the top 10%, the change in the rank meter value is "+2" (an increase of 2 points). Similarly, if the ranking is included in the top 11-30% (the remaining 20% ​​after removing the top 10% from the top 30%), the change is "+1", if the ranking is included in the middle 30% (top 31-60%), the change is "±0" (no increase or decrease), and if the ranking is included in the bottom 40%, the change is "-1" (a decrease of 1 point). Note that if no distribution was performed on the previous day, the change in the rank meter value will be "-1" regardless of the ranking within the rank band.

[0068] In step S200, the rank meter value of each user is updated according to the update rule exemplified in Fig. 12. Note that, for a user with a negative rank meter value, if the current change in rank meter value is an increase (specifically, +2 or +1), the rank meter value may be cleared to 0 and then increased. That is, for example, if the current change in rank meter value of a user whose current rank meter value is "-1" is "+2", the rank meter value is cleared to 0 and then incremented by 2, so that the rank meter value after the change becomes "+2" (instead of "+1"). In this way, even for users with negative rank meter values ​​(for example, users who broadcast infrequently), the rank meter value can be increased all at once, which promotes the broadcasting of live videos.

[0069] Returning to the flow diagram of FIG. 11, after updating the rank meter value of each user, the server 10 then updates the rank based on the updated rank meter value (step S210). FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining the correspondence between the update contents of the rank and the required rank meter value. As shown in the figure, first, when ranking up across rank bands (in other words, when ranking up from the highest rank in each rank band), the rank meter value required is +4. That is, when a user belonging to the highest rank (e.g., A+) in each rank band has a rank meter value of +4, the user is ranked up to the lowest rank (e.g., S-) in the immediately upper rank band. Also, when ranking up within the same rank band (in other words, when ranking up from the middle or lowest rank in each rank band), the rank meter value required is +2. That is, when a user belonging to the middle or lowest rank (e.g., B or B-) in each rank band has a rank meter value of +2, the user is ranked up to the immediately upper rank (e.g., B+ or B) in the same rank band.

[0070] Similarly, as illustrated in FIG. 13, when a user ranks down within the same rank band (in other words, when a user ranks down from the highest or middle rank in each rank band), the rank meter value required is -2. That is, when a user who belongs to the highest or middle rank in each rank band (e.g., B+ or B) has a rank meter value of -2, the user ranks down to the next lower rank (e.g., B or B-) in the same rank band. When a user ranks down across rank bands, the rank meter value required is -6. That is, when a user who belongs to the lowest rank (e.g., A-) in each rank band has a rank meter value of -6, the user ranks down to the highest rank (e.g., B+) in the next lower rank band. Thus, in this example, the absolute value of the rank meter value required for rank up / down across rank bands is larger than that for rank up / down within the same rank band. As a result, a sudden rank up / down in a short period of time is suppressed.

[0071] Returning to the flow diagram of Fig. 11, in step S210, the rank is updated based on the rank meter value according to the correspondence relationship illustrated in Fig. 13. Note that the rank meter value of the user whose rank has been updated (the user whose rank has been upgraded / downgraded) is cleared to 0.

[0072] In this example, diamonds are awarded as a reward to the user as a distributor based on the distribution time of the previous day and the rank (rank on the previous day). Fig. 14 is a flow diagram illustrating the process executed by the server 10 when awarding diamonds to each distributor. These processes are executed late at night every day, for example, at a time (for example, at midnight every day) before the process executed when updating the rank of each user illustrated in Fig. 11.

[0073] As shown in the figure, the server 10 first calculates the delivery time of each user on the previous day (step S300). The delivery time of a specific user on the previous day is specifically identified by referring to the distributor user account, delivery date and time, and delivery time in the delivery management table 412. If a user makes multiple deliveries in one day, the delivery times of each of the multiple deliveries are added together.

[0074] Next, the server 10 grants each user a number of diamonds based on the calculated distribution time and the reference number of diamonds (step S310). Specifically, each user is granted a number of diamonds calculated by multiplying the calculated distribution time by the reference number of diamonds. The reference number of diamonds is preset for each rank so that the higher the rank, the greater the number, and the reference number of diamonds corresponding to each user's rank on the previous day is applied. When diamonds are granted to a user, the number of diamonds held in the user information table 411 is updated. In this example, diamonds can be exchanged for coins or real currency.

[0075] Here, the event in this example will be described. In the live video distribution service in this example, a time-limited event may be held for a predetermined period (for example, two weeks), and a ranking of broadcasters is set at the event. The ranking, which will be described in detail later, is set based on the event points acquired by the broadcaster during the event period, and the event points are obtained by multiplying the distribution points acquired by the broadcaster during the event period by a coefficient according to the number of the broadcaster's supporters.

[0076] In this example, viewers who meet all of the following four conditions regarding live video viewing behavior during the event period can join the support team of the corresponding broadcaster. (1) The number of coins consumed when inputting an item is 150 or more (2) The number of comments entered is 80 or more (3) Viewing time is 5 hours or more (4) The viewing period is 3 days or more These conditions (conditions for joining the cheering squad) are presented to the user, for example, via a screen explaining the contents of the event displayed on the user terminal 30. During the event, the values ​​of these four parameters for each viewer are managed in the condition satisfaction status management table 413 and updated in real time (during the distribution of the live video). For example, the "number of coins consumed for item" is updated in response to the input of an item, the "number of comment inputs" is updated in response to the input of a comment, the "viewing time" is updated in response to the continuation of viewing, and the "number of days viewed" is updated in response to the start of the first viewing of the day.

[0077] In this example, when a viewer satisfies all of the four conditions described above, the viewer joins the cheering squad of the corresponding distributor. When the viewer joins the cheering squad, a system comment regarding joining the cheering squad is input, and a corresponding comment object 731, 831 is added to the comment display area 73, 83. In the comment object 731, 831 corresponding to the system comment regarding joining the cheering squad, text indicating joining the cheering squad is displayed together with the account name of the viewer who joined the cheering squad. In addition, in response to joining the cheering squad, a predetermined visual effect is added to the video display area 71, 81. In addition, in response to joining the cheering squad, the condition satisfaction date and time of the corresponding viewer is set in the condition satisfaction status management table 413.

[0078] Also, in this example, information regarding the current status of the cheering squad for the broadcaster is displayed on the broadcast screen 70 and the viewing screen 80. Fig. 15 illustrates the broadcast screen 70 during the event period. As shown in the figure, on the broadcast screen 70 during the event period, a cheering squad information display object 721 that displays the current status of the cheering squad for the corresponding broadcaster is placed in the upper right corner of the screen. The object 721 displays the current number and level of the cheering squad.

[0079] In this example, the value of the cheering team's level and the coefficient used in calculating the event points (multiplication factor for distribution points when calculating the event points) change depending on the number of cheering team members. FIG. 16 illustrates the correspondence between the number of cheering team members, the cheering team's level, and the coefficient for calculating the event points. As illustrated in the figure, in this example, when the number of cheering team members is 30 or less, the level is 1 and the coefficient (multiplication factor) is 1.0 (no change). When the number of cheering team members is 31 or more and 50 or less, the level is 2 and the coefficient (multiplication factor) is 1.5. When the number of cheering team members is 51 or more and 100 or less, the level is 3 and the coefficient (multiplication factor) is 2.0. When the number of cheering team members is 101 or more, the level is 4 and the coefficient (multiplication factor) is 3.0.

[0080] The number of supporters displayed in the support team information display object 721 is specified by referring to the condition satisfaction status management table 413, and the level of the support team is specified according to the number of supporters and the correspondence relationship illustrated in FIG.

[0081] When the cheering team information display object 721 is selected, a cheering team details screen 200 illustrated in FIG. 17 is displayed superimposed on the distribution screen 70. As illustrated, the screen 200 displays the current number of people in the cheering team, their level, and a coefficient (multiplication factor), and also has a list display area 202 that displays a list of viewers who have joined the cheering team. In the area 202, profile images of viewers who have joined the cheering team are arranged side by side in the left-right direction, and the displayed viewers are switched by a flick operation / slide operation in the left-right direction, etc. In this example, the multiple viewers in the list display area 202 are arranged in ascending order of the condition fulfillment date and time (date and time of joining the cheering team), with the left end at the top.

[0082] 18 illustrates an example of a viewing screen 80 during the event period. As illustrated, during the event period, the viewing screen 80 also has a cheering squad information display object 821 placed in the upper right corner of the screen, similar to the distribution screen 70.

[0083] FIG. 19 illustrates a cheering team details screen 200A that is displayed superimposed on the viewing screen 80 in response to selection of a cheering team information display object 821 on the viewing screen 80. The screen 200A, like the cheering team details screen 200, displays the number of members of the cheering team, their level, and a coefficient (multiplication factor), and has a list display area 202 that displays a list of viewers who have joined the cheering team. The cheering team details screen 200A also has a status display area 204A that displays the satisfaction status of the conditions for joining the cheering team for the viewer himself (the user of the viewer terminal 30 on which the viewing screen 80 is displayed). As shown in the figure, the area 204A displays, in the form of fractions, the values ​​required to satisfy the joining conditions and the current actual values ​​for each parameter of the item contribution degree (the number of item coins consumed), the number of comments (the number of comments entered), the viewing time, and the number of viewing days. 19, the satisfaction status regarding the number of comments is displayed as "25 / 80 comments," which indicates that the number of comments required to satisfy the conditions for joining the support team is "80," and the current actual number of comments is "25." Note that in the status display area 204A, a display such as "clear" is added to the position of the parameter that satisfies the conditions for joining.

[0084] During an event, when distribution of a live video ends, server 10 not only sets distribution points for that distribution, but also updates the event points (managed in user information table 411) of the corresponding distributor at that time. Event points are calculated by multiplying the distribution points acquired by the distributor during the event by a coefficient (multiplier) according to the number of supporters. Distribution points during the event are calculated by adding up the distribution points of each distribution during that period, which are managed in distribution management table 412. In addition, the number of supporters for the corresponding distributor is calculated by referring to condition satisfaction status management table 413.

[0085] During the event period, the ranking (progress) of the broadcasters based on the event points at that time is displayed on a screen explaining the contents of the event, etc. Then, when the event period ends, the ranking of the broadcasters is determined based on the final broadcast points and the event points based on the number of supporters, and for example, a predetermined reward is awarded to the broadcasters with the highest rankings.

[0086] In the above example, the status display area 204A of the cheering squad details screen 200A is configured to display the satisfaction status of the viewer's own conditions for joining the cheering squad, but in another example of this embodiment, the broadcaster / viewer may be configured to view the satisfaction status of other viewers' conditions for joining the cheering squad via the broadcasting screen 70 / viewing screen 80. Also, for example, a family member of a specific broadcaster may be able to view the satisfaction status of other family members of the same broadcaster, and for example, a screen containing information about the family may display a list of the satisfaction status of the conditions for joining the cheering squad of the corresponding broadcaster for each of multiple family members who have joined the family.

[0087] In the above example, the number of supporters is used to calculate the event points for a time-limited event, but in another example of this embodiment, the number of supporters may be used in various evaluations of the broadcaster other than for such events. For example, the broadcast points in the above example may be calculated based on the number of supporters.

[0088] The video distribution server 10 of the present embodiment described above determines, for each of a plurality of distributors, viewers who satisfy predetermined conditions related to the viewing behavior of videos provided by each distributor (e.g., conditions related to the number of item coins consumed, the number of comments entered, the viewing time, and the number of viewing days, etc.), and executes predetermined processing (e.g., processing to calculate event points) for evaluating each distributor based at least on the number of such viewers (e.g., the number of supporters), thereby enabling appropriate evaluation of distributors based on the number of viewers with certain viewing behavior. In this way, the server 10 supports appropriate evaluation of video distributors.

[0089] The processes and procedures described herein may be realized by software, hardware, or any combination thereof, other than those explicitly described. For example, the processes and procedures described herein may be realized by implementing logic corresponding to the processes and procedures in a medium such as an integrated circuit, a volatile memory, a non-volatile memory, or a magnetic disk. In addition, the processes and procedures described herein may be implemented as a computer program corresponding to the processes and procedures, and executed by various computers.

[0090] Although processes and procedures described herein are described as being performed by a single device, software, component, or module, such processes or procedures may be performed by multiple devices, software, components, and / or modules. Also, the software and hardware elements described herein may be realized by combining them into fewer components or breaking them down into more components.

[0091] In this specification, even if a component of the invention is described as either singular or plural, or described without limitation to either singular or plural, the component may be either singular or plural unless the context requires otherwise. [Explanation of symbols]

[0092] 10 Video distribution server 11. Computer Processors 15 Storage 20. Communication Networks 30 User terminal 41 Information Storage Management Department 43 Basic function control section 45 Video distribution control section 47 User Evaluation Section 60 Top screen 70 Streaming Screen 80 Viewing Screen 100 Item selection screen 200, 200A Support Team Details Screen

Claims

1. A system for distributing video, comprising one or more computer processors, comprising: The one or more computer processors, in response to execution of the readable instructions, A process of distributing videos provided by each of a plurality of distributors to a plurality of viewers; A process of determining, for each of the plurality of distributors, viewers who satisfy a predetermined condition regarding viewing behavior of videos provided by each of the plurality of distributors; and executing a process of executing a predetermined process for evaluating each of the plurality of distributors based at least on the number of viewers who satisfy the predetermined condition for each of the plurality of distributors. system.

2. The predetermined process includes a process of calculating a predetermined point for setting a ranking of the distributor. The system of claim 1.

3. the determining step includes determining viewers that satisfy the predetermined condition during a predetermined time period corresponding to a particular event; The predetermined points are for setting a ranking of the distributor in the particular event. The system of claim 2.

4. The predetermined conditions include conditions related to the amount of video viewing.

4. A system according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. The predetermined condition includes a condition regarding an amount of input information input while watching a video.

5. A system according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. the process of distributing includes, during distribution of the video, presenting a distribution screen to a distributor and a viewing screen to a viewer; The distribution screen and / or the viewing screen are configured to display information about viewers who satisfy the predetermined conditions of the corresponding distributor.

6. A system according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. the process of distributing includes, during distribution of the video, presenting a distribution screen to a distributor and a viewing screen to a viewer; the delivery screen and / or the viewing screen is configured to display a predetermined message in response to each of the plurality of viewers satisfying the predetermined condition; 7. A system according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

8. The one or more computer processors further execute a process of presenting, to a specific viewer, information regarding the specific viewer's satisfaction of the predetermined condition.

8. A system according to any preceding claim.

9. 1. A method for distributing video, executed by one or more computers, comprising: A step of distributing videos provided by each of a plurality of distributors to a plurality of viewers; determining, for each of the plurality of distributors, viewers who satisfy a predetermined condition regarding viewing behavior of videos provided by each of the plurality of distributors; and executing a predetermined process for evaluating each of the plurality of distributors based at least on the number of viewers who satisfy the predetermined condition for each of the plurality of distributors. method.

10. A program for distributing video, In response to execution on one or more computers, the one or more computers A process of distributing videos provided by each of a plurality of distributors to a plurality of viewers; A process of determining, for each of the plurality of distributors, viewers who satisfy a predetermined condition regarding viewing behavior of videos provided by each of the plurality of distributors; and executing a predetermined process for evaluating each of the plurality of distributors based at least on the number of viewers who satisfy the predetermined condition for each of the plurality of distributors. program.

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