Picture distribution system

Abstract

To deal with the issue in which delay of a system causes delay of display and the delay of display causes danger on viewers when emergency information sent when disasters occur is distributed in the same manner of transfer as the manner for transferring a picture sound content.SOLUTION: In the present invention, a picture sound distribution system formed of a distribution system for distributing a picture sound content and a reception terminal for receiving a picture content by a net distribution displays emergency information sent when disasters occur, with smaller delays than in the case of the picture sound content.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention provides a method for displaying emergency information transmitted in the event of a disaster, etc., with low latency, comprising a server system (distribution system) that distributes video, a receiving terminal (television receiver) that receives video content distributed over the Internet, and a server (hereinafter referred to as an intermediate server) located between the server system and the receiving terminal. Hereinafter, video content refers to video / audio content composed of video and audio. [Background technology]

[0002] In recent years, advances in networks have led to the launch of many video distribution services. In particular, large-screen television receivers can no longer just receive broadcasts as before, but can now connect to networks and play distributed videos, allowing users to enjoy higher-quality, more realistic images. This has become possible thanks to faster networks and improved processing capabilities in television receivers, and it is expected that in the future there will be more opportunities to display and operate a variety of video content provided by networks on television receivers.

[0003] On the other hand, internet distribution has the problem that delays occur due to server buffers, receiver buffers, and even networks, so the timing of receiving video and audio is delayed compared to broadcast waves. While this delay is not a problem for users with normal VOD playback, delays in the presentation of emergency information, such as earthquakes, tsunamis, and even storms, can cause problems by delaying the detection of disasters. For example, a delay of several tens of seconds in a highly urgent report, such as an earthquake alert, can cause a fatal situation.

[0004] The background to this is that the amount of time people spend watching TV online has increased significantly, increasing the likelihood of an emergency occurring while viewers are watching online content. As this trend for Internet viewing time will continue to grow, the presentation of emergency information, such as disaster information, will also be an important issue for Internet-distributed TVs. In particular, delays in notifications during disasters can be life-threatening, so it is extremely important to equip Internet-enabled TVs with low-latency emergency information displays.

[0005] The present invention provides a transmission / reception system that can present displays during emergencies such as disasters with relatively low delay, despite the delay in video and audio content when distributed over the Internet. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0006] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 160285 / 1985 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0007] Currently, emergency information during disasters is displayed extremely effectively on broadcasting.

[0008] Fig. 11 shows an embodiment of a conventional broadcasting system for displaying emergency information in current broadcasting. Broadcast program content 11001 is input to encoder 11002 and compressed into a so-called encoded image. At this time, in the event of an emergency such as a disaster, emergency information 11004 is inserted into the video signal by encoder 11002. The output of encoder 11002 is the broadcast program content with an emergency information message superimposed on it, and is transmitted to television receiver 11100 by transmitter 11003.

[0009] In the television 11100, the receiver 11103 receives the video signal, and the decoder 11102 restores the compressed image to play back the broadcast program content 11101. At this time, since the emergency information message is superimposed, the emergency information can be immediately conveyed to the viewer.

[0010] In the case of broadcasting, as mentioned above, there is almost no delay, so emergency information can be conveyed to viewers instantly by superimposing it on the video signal.

[0011] Next, an embodiment of a video distribution system using a network is shown in Fig. 12. Distribution content 12001 in distribution server 12000 is image-compressed by encoder 12002, in the same way as during broadcasting. Here, emergency information 12004 is input to encoder 12002, and an emergency information message is superimposed. The output of encoder 12002 enters distribution buffer 12003 and is sent to the network. In the network, after experiencing network delay 12005, it is received by television receiver 12100. In television receiver 12100, the received video and audio content is buffered by reception buffer 12103 and output to decoder 12102. In decoder 12102, the compressed image is restored, and distribution content 12101 is played back.

[0012] The difference with broadcasting is the existence of a distribution buffer 12003, a network delay 12005, and a receiving buffer 12103, which cause a large delay in the timing of playback of the video and audio content. Therefore, the emergency information superimposed on the video and audio content is also significantly delayed.

[0013] As described above, the following problems arise when displaying emergency information over the Internet. 1) Buffer delays on the sending and receiving sides result in significant delays in the display of emergency information. 2) Networks are usually best-effort, meaning that network delays vary and, in the worst case, large delays occur. 3) Even if a disaster occurs while a viewer is watching VOD, the viewer will only learn of the situation through emergency information messages after the above-mentioned delay has occurred.

[0014] As described above, the timing of the emergency information message in the Internet distribution has a large delay from the timing of the actual transmission. Therefore, viewers only learn about the situation some time after the actual disaster has occurred, which creates a problem.

[0015] The present invention relates to a distribution server that transmits video and audio content distributed over a network, a television receiver that receives and plays the distributed video and audio content, and an intermediate server for quickly displaying emergency information in the event of an emergency. [Means for solving the problem]

[0016] The video distribution system of the present invention comprises a distribution system which distributes video and audio content to a transmission path via communication, and a television receiver which receives the distributed video and audio content, wherein the distribution system transmits emergency information in the event of an emergency such as a disaster via a transmission path separate from the video and audio content, and the television receiver receives the emergency information via a transmission path separate from the transmission path over which the video and audio content is transmitted. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0017] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram of a first embodiment according to the present invention. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram of a second embodiment according to the present invention. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an application example of the second embodiment based on the present invention. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram of an intermediate server according to the present invention. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram of a protocol according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a detailed view of a second embodiment according to the present invention. [Figure 7]FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram of a third embodiment according to the present invention. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a screen configuration diagram of a fourth embodiment based on the present invention. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram of a fourth embodiment according to the present invention. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram of a fifth embodiment according to the present invention. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram of a conventional broadcasting system. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is an explanatory diagram of a conventional video distribution system. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram of a communication protocol. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0018] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0019] Therefore, the present invention provides a method for transmitting emergency information between a distribution server that transmits video and audio content and a television receiver that receives the video and audio content via a system separate from the video and audio content, and a method for presenting emergency information more quickly by installing an intermediate server between the distribution server and the television receiver and using the functions of the intermediate server.

[0020] (First embodiment) A first embodiment according to the present invention is shown in Fig. 1. It is composed of a distribution system 1000 and a television receiver 1100. In this embodiment, an emergency information message is not superimposed on the video and audio content but is transmitted via a separate system.

[0021] Video and audio content is distribution content. Distribution content 1001 is compressed by an encoder 1002, and then sent, distributed, or transmitted to the network by a distribution buffer 1003. After a delay 1006 occurs on the network, the distribution content 1001 is received by a receiving buffer 1103 of a television receiver 1100. The receiving buffer 1103 inputs the compressed video signal to a decoder 1102, which restores the image and plays back video and audio content 1104.

[0022] Meanwhile, the emergency information 1004 is sent, distributed or transmitted by a transmitting unit 1005 to a network separate from the distribution content 1001 system. Therefore, the emergency information 1004 is received by a television receiver 1100 via a low delay 1007 on a system separate from the video and audio content. In the television receiver 1100, the emergency information 1004 is received by a receiving unit 1105, an emergency information message 1106 is played, and the multiplexed display 1101 multiplexes, superimposes or overlays the emergency information message on the video and audio content, and finally the communication content 1104 is played.

[0023] The network of delay 1006 is a general IP network, and the network of low delay 1007 is a network provided separately between the distribution system and the television receiver, suggesting, for example, a telephone line.

[0024] In this way, unlike conventional video distribution systems, the first embodiment of the present invention uses a faster network to transmit the emergency information message via a different route, which is not affected by delays in the video and audio content, and therefore makes it possible to display the emergency information message on a television screen more quickly.

[0025] A number of existing communication methods are applicable between the distribution system 1000 and the television receiver 1100, and existing communication protocols are shown in Fig. 13. Fig. 13 shows (a) a polling method, (b) a long polling method, (c) SSE, and (d) Websocket as representative communication methods that may be used for communication between the distribution system and the television receiver.

[0026] (a) Polling method The television receiver 13101 makes an inquiry to the distribution system 13102 by an HTTP request 13103 at regular intervals. The distribution system 13102 responds by an HTTP response 13104, and the television receiver 13101 waits for a fixed time 13107, and then transmits an HTTP request 13105 again. Here, data update 13109 indicates the implementation of transmission of an emergency information message for a disaster or the like. The television receiver 13101 receives the emergency information message by an HTTP response 13106 corresponding to the HTTP request 13105. The television receiver again waits for a fixed time 13108. Thus, in the polling method, the receiver needs to always issue a request to the distribution system at a fixed timing, and the transmission of the emergency information message is also delayed due to the wait time.

[0027] (b) Long Polling Method Long polling, which is an improvement of the polling method, will be described. The television receiver 13201 makes an inquiry to the distribution system 13202 by an HTTP request 13203. The distribution system 13202 does not respond immediately, but responds by an HTTP response 13204 when a data update 13209 occurs. The television receiver 13201 responds without waiting, and returns an HTTP request 13205 to the distribution system. The distribution system 13202 does not return a response until a data update 13210 occurs, and returns an HTTP response 13206 after the data update 13210 occurs. The television receiver 13201 returns an HTTP request 13207 immediately upon receiving the HTTP response 13206. Thus, with long polling, the television receiver does not need to issue requests frequently, but the server needs to respond immediately when there is a data update.

[0028] (c) SSE (Server Sent Events) The television receiver 13301 makes an inquiry to the distribution system 13302 by an HTTP request 13303. Thereafter, the television receiver 13301 maintains a standby state and accepts events from the distribution system 13302. The distribution system 13302 transmits an event 13304 when a data update 13309 occurs, transmits an event 13305 when a data update 13310 occurs, and further transmits an event 13306 when a data update 13311 occurs. In this way, in SSE, the television receiver can immediately receive data updates as they occur. However, in SSE, information is transmitted in only one direction, from the distribution system 13302 to the television receiver 13301.

[0029] (d) Websocket The television receiver 13401 is constantly connected to the distribution system 13402 by establishing a handshake 13403. After that, two-way communication is possible between the television receiver 13401 and the distribution system 13402. The distribution system 13402 transmits data 13404 when a data update 13409 occurs, and transmits data 13405 when a data update 13410 occurs. The television receiver 13401 is also capable of transmitting data to the distribution system 13402, and transmits data 13406 to the distribution system 13402. As described above, by using Websocket, when a data update occurs, data can be immediately transmitted from the distribution system 13402 to the television receiver 13401, and since two-way communication is possible, it is also possible to transmit data from the television receiver 13401 to the distribution system 13402.

[0030] Above we have shown the typical communication protocols between a television receiver and a distribution system. With the polling method, the television receiver frequently queries the distribution system, which increases the receiver load. With long polling, the television receiver is in standby mode, which reduces the receiver load, but the distribution system needs to remember requests from the television receiver and responds immediately when data is updated, which increases the load on the distribution system. Similarly, with SSE, the system needs to remember requests from the television receiver, which increases the load on the distribution system, and furthermore, only one-way transmission is performed from the distribution system to the television receiver. Finally, with the Websocket method, the television receiver and distribution system perform a handshake, allowing both to wait and send, reducing the load on both.

[0031] Therefore, in the first embodiment based on the present invention, since the transmission of the emergency information message needs to be performed with low latency, it is desirable to implement it using a communication protocol with low latency such as Websocket.

[0032] Also, the low latency 1007 can be realized by a method of preferentially transmitting data for the emergency information message 1004 in a network to which priority control and bandwidth control based on QoS (Quality of Service) are applied. For example, in the VoIP (Voice Over IP) technology that realizes IP telephony, the priority control of the transmission packet is specified in the packet header. In this embodiment, when transmitting the emergency information message 1004, QoS control is applied, and transmission is preferentially performed, thereby realizing the low latency 1007. As a result, the distribution buffer 1003 and the transmission unit 1005 transmit information (packets, data) to the same IP network.

[0033] In other words, the distribution buffer 1003 stores normal packets, and the packets sent from the transmitting unit 1005 are packets in which data is transmitted with priority, such as VoIP, and each packet can be delayed 1006 or has low delay 1007 depending on the service of the packet being transmitted.

[0034] As described above, in the first embodiment based on the present invention, it is possible to display emergency information messages with extremely low latency by using a low-latency communication protocol such as Websocket and a transmission path separate from the video and audio content. However, in the embodiment in FIG. 1, although it is possible to reduce the effect of latency, it is necessary to use a separate high-speed dedicated network, which creates the problem of high costs. In addition, if it becomes necessary to distribute emergency information messages to a larger number of television receivers, it is clear that a large load will be placed on the distribution system.

[0035] FIG. 2 shows a second embodiment according to the present invention.

[0036] In this embodiment, low latency is achieved by using the normal Internet without using a high-speed dedicated network, and further, the communication load of the distribution system is reduced even when the number of television receivers becomes large. In a second embodiment of the present invention, when an emergency information message due to a disaster or the like is presented to a television receiver, the disaster such as an earthquake or flood usually has a characteristic that the affected area is limited. In view of this, the communication load is reduced by presenting the emergency information message only to television receivers in the area where the disaster occurs.

[0037] The distribution system 2000 is connected to an intermediate server 2300. In addition, a television receiver 2100 and a television receiver 2200 are connected to the intermediate server 2300.

[0038] Distribution content 2001 is compressed by an encoder 2002, buffered by a distribution buffer 2003, and sent (distributed or transmitted) to a network. The compressed content sent to the network is transmitted to a television receiver 2100 via a delay 2006. The television receiver 2100 receives the compressed content by a reception buffer 2103, decompresses the compressed content by a decoder 2102, and inputs it to a multiplexing display unit 2105. The multiplexing display unit 2105 displays the emergency information message sent from an emergency information unit 2016 by multiplexing, superimposing, or overlaying.

[0039] The above operation is the same as in the existing distribution system.

[0040] On the other hand, the emergency information message output from the emergency information unit 2004 is input to the transmitting unit 2005. Furthermore, the emergency information message is transmitted from the transmitting unit 2005 to the intermediate server 2300, where it is registered or stored.

[0041] In the television receiver 2100, communication is performed between the transmission / reception unit 2101 and the intermediate server 2300, and information such as the area in which the television receiver 2100 is installed is registered in the intermediate server 2300 as reception conditions. Furthermore, the distribution system 2000 instructs the intermediate server 2300 to transmit the registered or stored emergency information message. When giving the instruction, the distribution system 2000 simultaneously transmits the reception conditions such as the area to the intermediate server 2300. The intermediate server transmits the emergency information message to television receivers 2100 in areas etc. that meet the conditions. The transmitted emergency information message is input to the emergency information unit 2106 via the transmission / reception unit 2101. The emergency information unit 2106 outputs the emergency information message to the multiplexing display unit 2105, and displays the emergency information message by multiplexing, superimposing or overlaying it on the video / audio content.

[0042] FIG. 3 shows an example in which the second embodiment according to the present invention is applied to a plurality of distribution systems and a plurality of television receivers.

[0043] The intermediate server 3300 is connected to a distribution system 3000, a distribution system 3200, a television receiver 3100, and a television receiver 3400.

[0044] Distribution content 3001 of distribution system 3000 is compressed by encoder 3002, buffered by distribution buffer 3003, and sent (distributed or transmitted) to the network. Distribution content 3201 of distribution system 3200 is compressed by encoder 3202, buffered by distribution buffer 3203, and sent (distributed or transmitted) to the network.

[0045] The compressed content transmitted (distributed or transmitted) over the network is transmitted (distributed or transmitted) via a delay 3006 to the television receiver 3100 and the television receiver 3400 .

[0046] On the other hand, the emergency information message output from the emergency information unit 3004 of the distribution system 3000 is input to the transmitting unit 3005. Furthermore, the emergency information message is sent (distributed or transmitted) from the transmitting unit 3005 to the intermediate server 3300, and registered in the intermediate server 3300. Similarly, the emergency information message output from the emergency information unit 3204 of the distribution system 3200 is input to the transmitting unit 3205. Furthermore, the emergency information message is sent from the transmitting unit 3205 to the intermediate server 3300, and registered in the intermediate server 3300.

[0047] In the television receiver 3100, communication is performed between the transmission / reception unit 3101 and intermediate server 3300, and an emergency information message is extracted from the intermediate server under predetermined conditions. The extracted emergency information message is input to the emergency information unit 3106 via the transmission / reception unit 3101. The emergency information unit 3106 outputs the emergency information message to the multiplexing display unit 3105, and displays the emergency information message by multiplexing, superimposing or overlaying it on the content.

[0048] Similarly, in the television receiver 3400, communication is performed between the transmission / reception unit 3401 and the intermediate server 3300, and an emergency information message is extracted from the intermediate server under predetermined conditions. The extracted emergency information message is input to the emergency information unit 3406 via the transmission / reception unit 3401. The emergency information unit 3406 outputs the emergency information message to the multiplexing display unit 3405, and displays the emergency information message by multiplexing, superimposing or overlaying it on the content. Although the above describes the case where there are two distribution systems and two television receivers, it is clear that it is also possible to connect a greater number of distribution systems and television receivers.

[0049] FIG. 4 shows an illustration of an intermediate server according to the present invention.

[0050] In this embodiment, to show a more general example, three distribution systems and three television receivers are connected to the intermediate server. The distribution systems 4001, 4002, and 4003 are connected to the intermediate server 4100, and identify the reception areas of emergency information messages to be sent (distributed or transmitted), and transmit (distribute or transmit) the messages to predetermined television receivers 4201, 4202, and 4203.

[0051] The operation in this embodiment is divided into a registration operation and an event processing operation.

[0052] First, the registration operation will be described.

[0053] The distribution systems 4001, 4002, and 4003 are connected to the intermediate server 4100. The distribution system 4001 registers or stores an emergency information message in a message memory 4101 in the intermediate server 4100. Similarly, the distribution system 4002 registers or stores an emergency information message in a message memory 4102 in the intermediate server 4100, and the distribution system 4003 registers or stores an emergency information message in a message memory 4103 in the intermediate server 4100. This registration or storage is performed by sending (distributing or transmitting) data in the form of a transmission registration message 4004 from the distribution systems 4001, 4002, and 4003 to the message memories 4101, 4102, and 4103. A value that identifies the distribution system is described in the distribution ID.

[0054] On the other hand, the television receiver 4201, television receiver 4202, and television receiver 4203 are connected to the intermediate server 4100. The television receiver 4201 is connected to a condition setting message transmitting unit 4104 in the intermediate server 4100, and the receiving area 4301 in which it is installed is registered or stored as a message reception condition. The television receiver 4202 and television receiver 4203 are connected to a condition setting message transmitting unit 4105 in the intermediate server 4100, and the receiving area 4302 in which it is installed is registered or stored as a message reception condition. This condition registration or recording is performed by transmitting a condition registration message 4204 from the television receivers 4301, 4302, and 4203 to the condition setting message transmitting units 4104 and 4105. A value that identifies each television is described in the terminal ID of the condition registration message 4204. Through the above operations, the registration or storage of the emergency information message in the intermediate server 4100 and the registration or storage of the conditions for reception by the receivers in the intermediate server 4100 are completed.

[0055] Next, the event processing operation will be described.

[0056] When an emergency such as a disaster occurs while emergency information messages and reception conditions are registered in intermediate server 4100, an event is sent from the distribution system. Three examples will be presented below to explain the operation in detail.

[0057] In the first example, an operation of the distribution system 4001 to transmit (distribute or transmit) an emergency information message to the television 4201 when a disaster occurs in the reception area 4301 will be described.

[0058] The distribution system 4001 transmits data in the form of an event message 4005 to the intermediate server 4100. Here, the event message 4005 describes the receiving area 4301 that is the target for transmission. A value that identifies the distribution system 4001 is described in the distribution ID of the event message 4005. The event message transmitted from the distribution system 4001 is input to the condition event processing unit 4106. The condition event processing unit 4106 compares the event message with the conditions registered in the condition setting message transmitting units 4104 and 4105, confirms that the event message matches the conditions registered in 4104, and transmits (distributes or transmits) the emergency information message registered in the message memory 4101 to the television 4201.

[0059] In the second example, an operation of the distribution system 4003 to transmit (distribute or transmit) an emergency information message to the televisions 4202 and 4203 when a disaster occurs in the receiving area 4302 will be described.

[0060] The distribution system 4003 transmits (distributes or transmits) data in the format of an event message 4005 to the intermediate server 4100. Here, the event message 4005 describes the receiving area 4302 that is the target for transmission (distribution or transmission). A value that identifies the distribution system 4003 is described in the distribution ID of the event message 4005. The event message 4005 transmitted (distributed or transmitted) from the distribution system 4003 is input to the condition event processing unit 4106. The condition event processing unit 4106 compares the event message 4005 with the conditions registered in the condition setting message transmitting units 4104, 4105, confirms that they match the conditions registered in 4105, and transmits the emergency information message registered in the message memory 4103 to the televisions 4202, 4203.

[0061] As a third example, an operation of distribution system 4002 not transmitting (distributing or transmitting) an emergency information message to televisions 4202 and 4203 when a disaster occurs in reception area 4302 will be described.

[0062] The distribution system 4002 transmits data in the format of an event message 4005 to the intermediate server 4100. Here, the event message 4005 describes the receiving area 4302 that is the target for transmission (distribution or transmission). A value that identifies the distribution system 4002 is described in the distribution ID. The event message 4005 transmitted from the distribution system 4002 is input to the condition event processing unit 4106. The condition event processing unit 4106 compares the event message 4005 with the conditions registered in the condition setting message transmitting units 4104 and 4105, confirms that the conditions match those registered in 4105, and attempts to transmit the emergency information message registered in the message memory 4102 to the televisions 4202 and 4203, but since the message memory 4102 is not connected to the condition setting message transmitting unit 4105, the emergency information message is not transmitted.

[0063] In all of the above examples, data in the format of a transmission message 4205 is transmitted from condition setting message transmitting units 4104, 4105 to television receivers 4201, 4202, 4203. The transmission message 4205 includes a value indicating each television receiver as a terminal ID, and an emergency information message.

[0064] FIG. 5 illustrates a protocol according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0065] The distribution system 5100 performs registration 5101 of an emergency information message to the intermediate server 5400 in the format of a transmission registration message 4004. The distribution system 5200 performs registration 5201 of an emergency information message to the intermediate server 5400 in the format of a transmission registration message 4004. The distribution system 5300 performs registration 5301 of an emergency information message to the intermediate server 5400 in the format of a transmission registration message 4004.

[0066] On the other hand, the television receiver 5500 performs reception area condition registration 5501 to the intermediate server 5400 in the format of a condition registration message 4204. The television receiver 5600 performs reception area condition registration 5601 to the intermediate server 5400 in the format of a condition registration message 4204. The television receiver 5700 performs reception area condition registration 5701 to the intermediate server 5400 in the format of a condition registration message 4204.

[0067] After the above registration operations are completed, the distribution system 5100 transmits the event 5102 to the intermediate server 5400 in the form of an event message 4005, specifying the reception area.

[0068] The intermediate server 5400 transmits the emergency information message in the form of a transmission message 4205 to a television 5500 in a designated reception area.

[0069] FIG. 6 shows a different configuration example of the intermediate server according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0070] In this embodiment, a more flexible system for displaying emergency information messages is constructed by taking advantage of the fact that, as shown in FIG. 4, a transmission registration message 4004 is composed of a distribution ID and an emergency information message, an event message 4005 is composed of a distribution ID and a receiving area, a condition registration message 4204 is composed of a terminal ID and a receiving area, and a transmission message 4205 is composed of a terminal ID and an emergency information message.

[0071] For convenience of explanation, the transmission registration message 4004, the event message 4005, the condition registration message 4204, and the transmission message 4205 shown in FIG. 4 are reproduced at the bottom of FIG.

[0072] In Figure 6, a method is described for constructing a pair of an emergency information message and a terminal ID of a transmission message 4205 using the transmission ID and emergency information message of a transmission registration message 4004, and the terminal ID and receiving area of ​​a condition registration message 4204, using the transmission ID and receiving area information of an event message 4005.

[0073] Since the event message 4005 is composed of a distribution ID and a receiving area, the emergency information message is identified from the distribution ID of the transmission registration message 4004, the terminal ID is identified from the receiving area of ​​the condition registration message 4204, a pair of the terminal ID and the emergency information message is created, and the transmission message 4205 is constructed. After that, a specified television receiver is selected by the terminal ID, and the specified emergency information message is transmitted.

[0074] The above operation will be explained in detail with reference to the configuration shown in FIG.

[0075] The delivery systems 6001, 6002, and 6003 register their respective transmission registration messages in message memories 6211, 6212, and 6213. Here, each transmission registration message has the transmission ID of the transmission registration message 4004 and a format of an emergency information message.

[0076] Meanwhile, the television receivers 6101, 6102, and 6103 register their respective transmission registration messages in the area condition memory 6201. Here, the condition registration message 4204 is in the format of each terminal ID and receiving area. Similarly, the television receivers 6104 and 6105 register their respective transmission registration messages in the area condition memory 6202. Moreover, the television receiver 6106 registers a transmission registration message in the area condition memory 6203.

[0077] Event messages are sent from the distribution systems 6001, 6002, and 6003 and input to the condition event processing unit 6206. Here, the event message has the format of the event message 4005 distribution ID+reception area.

[0078] The message control unit 6204 compares the event message [delivery ID+receiving area] 4005 with the registered transmission registration message [delivery ID+emergency information message] 4004, and outputs the emergency information message with a matching delivery ID to the transmission control unit 6207.

[0079] The area control unit 6205 compares the event message [delivery ID+receiving area] 4005 with the registered condition registration message [terminal ID+receiving area] 4204 and outputs the terminal ID of the matching receiving area to the transmission control unit 6207.

[0080] The transmission control unit 6207 uses the emergency information message output from the message control unit 6204 and the terminal ID output from the area control unit 6205 to form a transmission message [emergency information message+terminal ID] 4205 .

[0081] The transmission control unit 6207 transmits the emergency information message to the television receiver identified by the terminal ID.

[0082] FIG. 7 shows a third embodiment according to the present invention.

[0083] In the third embodiment, the communication load is reduced by storing the emergency information message in the television receiver in advance.

[0084] Distribution systems 7001, 7002, and 7003 distribute video and audio content via a network delay 7200. The video and audio content is received by a receiving buffer 7103 via the network delay 7200, the video and audio are reproduced by a decoder 7102, and the video and audio content and the emergency information message are displayed by a multiplex display unit 7101.

[0085] Distribution systems 7001, 7002, 7003 store the emergency information message ID for identifying the emergency information message and the area information in area information storage units 7302, 7303, 7304, respectively, via receiver 7301 of intermediate server 7300.

[0086] Meanwhile, the television receiver 7100 receives emergency information messages that have been transmitted in advance at a receiving unit 7105, and stores the emergency information messages in advance in a message memory 7110. The emergency information messages are stored as emergency information messages 7111, 7112, and 7113 for each emergency information message ID. Here, the television receiver 7100 transmits area information from an area information transmitting unit 7108 to the intermediate server 7300, and registers it in a reception area condition registration unit 7307.

[0087] Next, when it becomes necessary to display an emergency information message such as a disaster, one of distribution systems 7001, 7002, 7003 transmits an instruction for an emergency information message to intermediate server 7300. This instruction includes an emergency information message ID and area information. In accordance with the transmitted instruction, the intermediate server selects a predetermined area using area control unit 7306 and transmits the emergency information message ID through transmission unit 7305. In television receiver 7100, reception unit 7105 receives the transmitted emergency information message ID, selects an emergency information message with the corresponding emergency information message ID from message memory 7110 and message control unit 7107, and transmits it to emergency information display unit 7106. Emergency information display unit 7106 outputs the emergency information message to multiple display unit 7101, and displays the emergency information message on the television screen.

[0088] By the above operation, when displaying an emergency information message, the intermediate server 7300 does not need to transmit the emergency information message to the television receiver 7100, and by transmitting only the emergency information message ID, the communication load is reduced.

[0089] FIG. 8 shows a screen configuration of the fourth embodiment based on the present invention.

[0090] In this embodiment, the communication load is restricted by limiting the time during which the emergency information message can be presented only when the distributed video content is being viewed. When viewing video and audio content on a normal television receiver, the desired content is selected from a program guide 8000 using a cursor 8001. In the fourth embodiment based on the present invention, presentation of the emergency information message is prohibited when this content is selected. Also, in the fourth embodiment based on the present invention, presentation of the emergency information message via communication is prohibited even when broadcast content is being viewed, since the emergency information message is superimposed and displayed by the broadcast content. As described above, in the fourth embodiment based on the present invention, the communication load is reduced by limiting the emergency information message to the time when the distributed video content is being viewed.

[0091] When a desired distribution content is selected from the program guide screen 8000, a communication video and audio content display screen 8100 is displayed on the television screen. In the fourth embodiment, an emergency information message 8101 is displayed superimposed on the video screen.

[0092] FIG. 9 shows an explanatory diagram of a communication protocol according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0093] When the television receiver 9500 starts playing back the video of the distributed content, it initiates a connection 9501 with the intermediate server 9400. Communication is established between the intermediate server 9400 and the television receiver 9500 using Websocket or the like (the protocol shown in FIG. 13), and the television receiver 9500 becomes capable of receiving emergency information messages.

[0094] Here, when the distribution system 9100 transmits the emergency information message 9101 to the intermediate server 9400, because the intermediate server 9400 and the television receiver 9500 are in a connected state, the emergency information message 9401 is transmitted from the intermediate server 9400 to the television receiver 9500, and the emergency information message is displayed on the screen. When the television receiver 9500 subsequently finishes playing back the video, a disconnection 9502 is implemented, and communication between the intermediate server 9400 and the television receiver 9500 is disconnected. When the distribution system 9100 subsequently transmits the emergency information message 9102 to the intermediate server 9400, because communication between the intermediate server 9400 and the television receiver 9500 is disconnected, the emergency information message 9401 is not transmitted to the television receiver 9500.

[0095] As described above, in the fourth embodiment of the present invention, the opportunity to receive an emergency information message is limited to when video is being played back, thereby reducing the number of connections between the intermediate server and the television receiver. This operation reduces the communication load on the intermediate server.

[0096] FIG. 10 shows a fifth embodiment according to the present invention.

[0097] In the fifth embodiment, the communication load is reduced by distributing the intermediate servers among multiple servers. The distribution systems 10001, 10002, and 10003 transmit the video and audio content to the CDN 10400. The CDN is a content delivery network that distributes the video and audio content efficiently, but delays occur. The video and audio content may be sent to the television receiver without passing through the CDN 10400.

[0098] Meanwhile, distribution systems 10001, 10002, 10003 transmit an emergency information message including area information to an emergency information message reception control unit 10201 in area control server (intermediate server) 10200, compares the area information stored in area server information unit 10206 with the area information in the emergency information message, and issues instructions to area control information units 10202, 10203, 10204 of the corresponding areas based on the area information in the emergency information message to transmit the emergency information message. Area control information units 10202, 10203, 10204 transmit the emergency information message to one of area intermediate servers 10207, 10208, 10209 in accordance with the instructions in the emergency information message.

[0099] The area intermediate server 10207 transmits emergency information messages to television receivers 10101, 10102, and 10103 in the area 10107, the area intermediate server 10208 transmits emergency information messages to television receivers 10104 and 10105 in the area 10108, and the area intermediate server 10209 transmits emergency information messages to television receiver 10106 in the area 10109.

[0100] As described above, by deploying multiple area intermediate servers, the load on each intermediate server is reduced.

[0101] (Appendix 1) a distribution system for distributing video and audio content to a transmission path via communication; A television receiver for receiving distributed video and audio content; The distribution system transmits emergency information in the event of a disaster or other emergency through a transmission path separate from that of the video and audio content, The video distribution system according to the present invention is characterized in that the television receiver receives the emergency information via a transmission path different from a transmission path through which video and audio content is transmitted.

[0102] (Appendix 2) 2. The video distribution system according to claim 1, wherein the television receiver multiplexes the received emergency information onto the video and audio content.

[0103] (Appendix 3) A distribution system for distributing video and audio content and emergency information in the event of a disaster or other emergency via communication; A television receiver for receiving distributed video and audio content; The video distribution system is characterized in that the video / audio content and the emergency information have different QoS, and the emergency information is a packet of a service that has less delay than the video / audio content.

[0104] (Appendix 4) 4. The video distribution system according to claim 3, wherein the television receiver multiplexes the received emergency information onto the video and audio content.

[0105] (Appendix 5) A distribution system for distributing video and audio content via communication; A television receiver for receiving distributed video and audio content; an intermediate server disposed between the distribution system and the television receiver; the distribution system transmits emergency information to the intermediate server in the event of an emergency such as a disaster; The distribution system issues instructions to the intermediate server in the event of an emergency such as a disaster, a video distribution system, wherein the intermediate server transmits an emergency information message to the television receiver upon receiving the emergency information instruction.

[0106] (Appendix 6) 6. The video distribution system according to claim 5, wherein the television receiver multiplexes the received emergency information message onto the video and audio content.

[0107] (Appendix 7) A distribution system for distributing video and audio content via communication; A television receiver for receiving distributed video and audio content; an intermediate server disposed between the distribution system and the television receiver; The television receiver registers an ID identifying itself and a region condition identifying a region in the intermediate server, In the event of an emergency such as a disaster, the distribution system transmits emergency information and information on the area where the disaster is occurring to the intermediate server, The intermediate server compares area information where a disaster has occurred sent from the distribution system in the event of an emergency such as a disaster with the conditions of registered areas, and transmits an emergency information message to the television receivers in the desired area where the disaster has occurred.

[0108] (Appendix 8) 8. The video distribution system according to claim 7, wherein the television receiver multiplexes the received emergency information message onto the video and audio content.

[0109] (Appendix 9) A distribution system for distributing video and audio content via communication; It comprises a television receiver for receiving the distributed video and audio content, The distribution system registers emergency information in a television receiver; A video distribution system characterized in that, in the event of an emergency such as a disaster, the distribution system transmits an ID that identifies emergency information to the television receiver.

[0110] (Appendix 10) In Supplementary Note 9, the video distribution system is characterized in that, when the television receiver receives an ID that identifies emergency information, the television receiver multiplexes the emergency information identified by the ID onto the video and audio content and displays it.

[0111] (Appendix 11) As recited in claim 9, further comprising an intermediate server disposed between the distribution system and the television receiver; The video distribution system is characterized in that the distribution system transmits the emergency information and an ID that identifies the emergency information to the television receiver via the intermediate server.

[0112] (Appendix 12) A distribution system for distributing video and audio content via communication; A television receiver for receiving distributed video and audio content; an intermediate server disposed between the distribution system and the television receiver; The video distribution system is characterized in that the connection between the intermediate server and the television receiver is maintained while the video and audio content is being viewed, and the connection between the intermediate server and the television receiver is disconnected when the viewing of the video and audio content ends.

[0113] (Appendix 13) In Addition 12, the distribution system transmits an emergency information message to the intermediate server; A video distribution system, wherein the intermediate server transmits an emergency information message to the television receiver when the television receiver is reproducing video and audio content from the distribution system.

[0114] (Appendix 14) a television receiver for receiving video and audio content distributed through communication; a distribution system that distributes video and audio content to the television receiver; a control server disposed between the distribution system and the television receiver; an intermediate server disposed between the control server and the television receiver; the control server receives emergency information including area information transmitted from the distribution system, identifies the intermediate server based on the area information, and transmits the emergency information to the identified intermediate server; The intermediate server transmits emergency information to television receivers installed in the area it covers.

[0115] (Appendix 15) A video distribution system comprising a distribution system which distributes video and audio content via communication, and a television receiver which receives the distributed video and audio content, the distribution system transmitting an emergency information message in an emergency such as a disaster via a transmission path separate from the video and audio content, and the television receiver receiving the message via a transmission path separate from the video and audio content.

[0116] (Appendix 16) A video distribution system comprising: an intermediate server disposed between a distribution system which distributes video and audio content via communication; and a television receiver which receives the distributed video and audio content; the distribution system transmits an emergency information message to the intermediate server in the event of an emergency such as a disaster; and the distribution system issues instructions to the intermediate server in the event of an emergency such as a disaster, and the emergency information message is transmitted from the intermediate server to the television receiver.

[0117] (Appendix 17) A video distribution system comprising: an intermediate server disposed between a distribution system which distributes video and audio content via communication and a television receiver which receives the distributed video and audio content; a plurality of television receivers connected to the intermediate server; each television receiver registering an ID identifying itself and area conditions identifying its area in the intermediate server; and the intermediate server comparing area information in which a disaster has occurred, sent from the distribution system in the event of an emergency such as a disaster, with the area conditions registered in the intermediate server, and transmitting an emergency information message to television receivers in the desired area.

[0118] (Appendix 18) A video distribution system characterized in that an intermediate server is disposed between a distribution system which distributes video and audio content via communication and a television receiver which receives the distributed video and audio content, and the distribution system registers an emergency information message in advance in the television receiver via the intermediate server, and displays the emergency information message on the television receiver by transmitting an ID which identifies the emergency information message in the event of an emergency such as a disaster.

[0119] (Appendix 19) This video distribution system is characterized in that an intermediate server is disposed between a distribution system which distributes video and audio contents by communication and a television receiver which receives the distributed video and audio contents, the connection between the intermediate server and the television receiver is maintained while the video and audio contents are being viewed, and the connection between the intermediate server and the television receiver is disconnected when the viewing of the video and audio contents is completed.

[0120] (Appendix 20) This video distribution system is characterized in that a control server and an intermediate server are disposed between a distribution system that distributes video and audio content via communication and a television receiver that receives the distributed video and audio content, and the control server transmits an emergency information message to a plurality of intermediate servers, which in turn transmits the emergency information message to television receivers installed in the area covered by the intermediate servers. [Explanation of symbols]

[0121] 1000 Distribution System 1100 Television receiver

Claims

1. a distribution system for distributing video and audio content to a transmission path via communication; A television receiver for receiving distributed video and audio content; The distribution system transmits emergency information in the event of a disaster or other emergency through a transmission path separate from that of the video and audio content, The video distribution system according to the present invention is characterized in that the television receiver receives the emergency information via a transmission path different from a transmission path through which video and audio content is transmitted.

2. 2. The video distribution system according to claim 1, wherein said television receiver multiplexes the received emergency information onto said video and audio content.

3. A distribution system for distributing video and audio content and emergency information in the event of a disaster or other emergency via communication; A television receiver for receiving distributed video and audio content; The video distribution system is characterized in that the video / audio content and the emergency information have different QoS, and the emergency information is a packet of a service that has less delay than the video / audio content.

4. 4. The video distribution system according to claim 3, wherein said television receiver multiplexes the received emergency information onto said video and audio content.

5. A distribution system for distributing video and audio content via communication; A television receiver for receiving distributed video and audio content; an intermediate server disposed between the distribution system and the television receiver; the distribution system transmits emergency information to the intermediate server in the event of an emergency such as a disaster; The distribution system issues instructions to the intermediate server in the event of an emergency such as a disaster, a video distribution system, wherein the intermediate server transmits an emergency information message to the television receiver upon receiving the emergency information instruction.

6. 6. The video distribution system according to claim 5, wherein said television receiver multiplexes the received emergency information message onto said video and audio content.

7. A distribution system for distributing video and audio content via communication; A television receiver for receiving distributed video and audio content; an intermediate server disposed between the distribution system and the television receiver; The television receiver registers an ID identifying itself and a region condition identifying a region in the intermediate server, In the event of an emergency such as a disaster, the distribution system transmits emergency information and information on the area where the disaster is occurring to the intermediate server, The intermediate server compares area information where a disaster has occurred sent from the distribution system in the event of an emergency such as a disaster with the conditions of registered areas, and transmits an emergency information message to the television receivers in the desired area where the disaster has occurred.

8. 8. The video distribution system according to claim 7, wherein said television receiver multiplexes the received emergency information message onto said video and audio content.

9. A distribution system for distributing video and audio content via communication; It comprises a television receiver for receiving the distributed video and audio content, The distribution system registers emergency information in a television receiver; A video distribution system characterized in that, in the event of an emergency such as a disaster, the distribution system transmits an ID that identifies emergency information to the television receiver.

10. 10. The video distribution system according to claim 9, wherein, when said television receiver receives an ID specifying emergency information, said television receiver multiplexes the emergency information specified by the ID onto said video / audio content and displays it.

11. 10. The television broadcasting system according to claim 9, further comprising an intermediate server disposed between the distribution system and the television receiver, The video distribution system is characterized in that the distribution system transmits the emergency information and an ID that identifies the emergency information to the television receiver via the intermediate server.

12. A distribution system for distributing video and audio content via communication; A television receiver for receiving distributed video and audio content; an intermediate server disposed between the distribution system and the television receiver; The video distribution system is characterized in that the connection between the intermediate server and the television receiver is maintained while the video and audio content is being viewed, and the connection between the intermediate server and the television receiver is disconnected when the viewing of the video and audio content ends.

13. 13. The method according to claim 12, wherein the distribution system transmits an emergency information message to the intermediate server, A video distribution system, wherein the intermediate server transmits an emergency information message to the television receiver when the television receiver is reproducing video and audio content from the distribution system.

14. a television receiver for receiving video and audio content distributed through communication; a distribution system that distributes video and audio content to the television receiver; a control server disposed between the distribution system and the television receiver; an intermediate server disposed between the control server and the television receiver; the control server receives emergency information including area information transmitted from the distribution system, identifies the intermediate server based on the area information, and further transmits the emergency information to the identified intermediate server; The intermediate server transmits emergency information to television receivers installed in the area it covers.

Images