System, method, and program for distributing live video

Abstract

To provide a system, method, and program for strengthening the connection between the distributor of a live video and viewers while activating communication between the viewers of the live video.SOLUTION: A video distribution server 10 communicatively connected to user terminals 30 via a communication network 20 such as the Internet provides a live video distribution service for distributing and viewing live videos to users via the user terminals 30. When the server 10 determines that input of items by each of a plurality of viewers of a live video satisfies a predetermined combo condition, the server activates communication between the viewers of the live video by generating a combo, and further strengthens the connection between a distributor of the live video and the viewers by granting a first value to the distributor in response to the generation of such a combo.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a system, a method, and a program for delivering live videos.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, in a live video delivery service for delivering live videos, input (submission) of items by viewers has been performed. For example, the system disclosed in Patent Document 1 below is configured to display a special item when a combination of items specified by item display requests from each of a plurality of users satisfies a predetermined condition. Such input of items can activate communication between viewers and can enliven the live video itself.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, although the above-described conventional system can activate communication between viewers, it cannot be said to promote strengthening of the connection between the viewers and the distributor. Therefore, it is desired to realize a mechanism that strengthens the connection between the viewer and the distributor (increases the engagement of the viewer with the distributor) while activating communication between the viewers through input of items during the delivery of the live video.

[0005] One object of an embodiment of the present invention is to activate communication between viewers of a live video and strengthen the connection between the distributor of the live video and the viewers. Other objects of the embodiments of the present invention will become apparent by referring to the entire present specification.

Means for Solving the Problem

[0006] A system according to an embodiment of the present invention includes one or more computer processors and is a system for distributing a live video. The one or more computer processors, in response to the execution of readable instructions, perform a process of distributing the live video provided by a distributor to each of a plurality of viewers, a process of receiving an item input by each of the plurality of viewers during the distribution of the live video provided by the distributor, a process of determining whether the current item input satisfies a predetermined combo condition according to the item input by each of the plurality of viewers, and generating a combo when it is determined that the predetermined combo condition is satisfied, and a process of granting a first value to the distributor in response to the generation of the combo.

[0007] A method according to an embodiment of the present invention is executed by one or more computers and is a method for distributing a live video. The method includes steps of distributing the live video provided by a distributor to each of a plurality of viewers, receiving an item input by each of the plurality of viewers during the distribution of the live video provided by the distributor, determining whether the current item input satisfies a predetermined combo condition according to the item input by each of the plurality of viewers, generating a combo when it is determined that the predetermined combo condition is satisfied, and granting a first value to the distributor in response to the generation of the combo.

[0008] A program according to an embodiment of the present invention is a program for distributing a live video. When executed on one or more computers, the one or more computers are caused to perform a process of distributing the live video provided by a distributor to each of a plurality of viewers, a process of receiving an input of an item by each of the plurality of viewers during the distribution of the live video provided by the distributor, a process of determining whether the input of the current item satisfies a predetermined combo condition according to the input of the item by each of the plurality of viewers, and a process of generating a combo when it is determined that the predetermined combo condition is satisfied, and a process of granting a first value to the distributor according to the generation of the combo.

Effect of the Invention

[0009] Various embodiments of the present invention activate communication among viewers of a live video while strengthening the connection between the distributor and the viewers of the live video.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0010]

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Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

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

[0012] FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram schematically showing the 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. In FIG. 1, only one user terminal 30 is shown, but the server 10 is communicably connected to a plurality of user terminals 30. The video distribution server 10 provides a user with a live video distribution service for distributing and viewing live videos via the user terminal 30. In the present embodiment, the user operating the user terminal 30 can distribute a live video as a distributor and can also view a live video provided by another user as a viewer. The video distribution server 10 is an example of a device that implements part or all of the system of the present invention.

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

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

[0015] The input / output I / F 13 includes various input / output devices for exchanging information with a user or the like. The input / output I / F 13 includes, for example, information input devices such as a keyboard and a pointing device (e.g., a mouse, a touch panel, etc.), a voice 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 a voice output device such as a speaker.

[0016] The communication I / F 14 is implemented as hardware such as a network adapter, various communication softwares, and combinations thereof, and is configured to enable wired or wireless communication via a communication network 20 or the like.

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

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

[0019] The video delivery server 10 configured as described above can be configured to have functions as a web server and an application server. In this case, in response to requests from a web browser and other applications (for example, an application for a live video delivery service) installed on the user terminal 30, various processes are executed, and screen data (for example, HTML data) and control data corresponding to the results of the processes are transmitted to the user terminal 30. On the user terminal 30, a web page or other screen based on the received data can be displayed.

[0020] The user terminal 30 is configured as a general computer. As shown in FIG. 1, it includes a computer processor 31, a main memory 32, an input / output I / F 33, a communication I / F 34, and a storage (storage device) 35, and these components are 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, reads various programs stored in the storage 35 or the like into the main memory 32, and executes various instructions included in the programs. The main memory 32 is composed of, for example, DRAM or the like.

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

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

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

[0025] In the present embodiment, the user terminal 30 can be configured as a smartphone, a tablet terminal, a wearable device, a personal computer, a game dedicated terminal, or the like.

[0026] A user who operates the user terminal 30 configured as described above can utilize the live video distribution service provided by the video distribution server 10 by executing communication with the video distribution server 10 via a web browser or other application installed in the storage 35 or the like.

[0027] Next, the functions of the video distribution server 10 of the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 2 is a block diagram schematically showing the functions of the video distribution server 10. As shown in the figure, the server 10 includes an information storage management unit 41 that stores and manages various information, a basic function control unit 43 that controls the basic functions of the live video distribution service, and a video distribution control unit 45 that controls the distribution of live videos. 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 and the like. For example, they are realized by the computer processor 11 executing instructions included in the program read into the main memory 12. Further, 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 can be realized 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 and the like. As shown in FIG. 2, for example, the information storage management unit 41 is configured to include a user information table 411 that manages information about users of the live video distribution service, and a distribution information table 412 that manages information about the distribution of individual live videos.

[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 live 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 inputs by the user via the screen displayed on the user terminal 30, and transmits screen data or control data corresponding 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 of 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 distribution of live videos. For example, the video distribution control unit 45 is configured to distribute live videos of each of a plurality of distributors to each of 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 a distributor (hereinafter, sometimes referred to as a "distributor terminal 30") and transmit the live videos to a user terminal 30 of each of a plurality of viewers (hereinafter, sometimes referred to as a "viewer terminal 30"). The live videos are composed of, for example, images input via a camera of the distributor terminal 30 and 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).

[0031] In this embodiment, the video distribution control unit 45 is configured to accept input of items from each of a plurality of viewers to the distributor of the live video during distribution of the live video. For example, the video distribution control unit 45 is configured to present the live video to the viewers via a predetermined screen displayed on each viewer terminal 30, and to display an item input by one viewer via the predetermined screen on the predetermined screen of each viewer terminal 30 (for example, to display the item superimposed on the live video). The items input by the viewers may include various virtual and electronic items. Such items are given to the viewers, for example, at various times, with or without payment.

[0032] In this embodiment, the video distribution control unit 45 is configured to determine whether or not the current item input satisfies a predetermined combo condition in response to an item input by a viewer, and to generate a combo when it is determined that the predetermined combo condition is satisfied. The predetermined combo condition is typically configured as a condition required between the current item input and a past item input prior to the current item input (for example, the previous (immediately preceding) item input, or an item input in the previous combo, etc.).

[0033] In addition, the video distribution control unit 45 is configured to give a first value to the distributor in response to the occurrence of a combo. The first value can be configured as various virtual and electronic items, points, and various parameter values that can bring benefits to the distributor. The holding quantity (total value) of the first value is managed, for example, in the user information table 411 or the distribution information table 412.

[0034] Thus, since the video distribution server 10 in the present embodiment generates a combo when it is determined that the input of items by each of a plurality of viewers of a live video satisfies a predetermined combo condition, it can activate the communication among the viewers of the live video. Furthermore, since a first value is given to the distributor in response to the occurrence of such a combo, the connection between the distributor and the viewers of the live video can be strengthened.

[0035] In addition, when it is determined that the input of the current item is performed within a chainable period (for example, a period until a predetermined time has elapsed since the occurrence of the previous combo) in which the combo can be chained to the previous combo and satisfies the predetermined combo condition, the video distribution control unit 45 chains the currently generated combo to the previous combo and can be configured to give more first values to the distributor as the chain number of the combo is larger. The chain number of the combo may simply be referred to as the "number of combos". In addition, the video distribution control unit 45 can be configured to clear the combo chain (clear the chain number of the combo) in response to the end of the chainable period. When the combo chain is cleared, for example, a new combo chain can be started from the occurrence of the next combo. Such a configuration promotes the combo chain, and as a result, further activation of the communication among the viewers is achieved.

[0036] In this embodiment, the predetermined combo conditions for generating (and chaining) a combo may include various conditions required for the input (mode) of the current item. For example, the predetermined combo conditions may include the condition that the relationship between the value of the currently input item and the value of the previously input item or the value of the item input in the previous combo is a predetermined relationship (for example, the condition that the value of the currently input item (price in real or virtual currency, etc.) is higher than the value of the previously input item, etc.). Such a configuration promotes the activation of communication among various viewers because cooperation is required between viewers who possess high-value items (for example, advanced users) and viewers who do not possess high-value items and only possess low-value items (for example, beginners).

[0037] Also, the predetermined combo conditions may include the condition that the number of times the same item (the same type of item) is input in the combo chain is below a threshold. For example, the number of times the same item is input is restricted to 1 or less. If item A was input in the combo up to the previous time, the current input of item A does not satisfy the predetermined combo conditions. Such a configuration promotes the input of a large number of types of items in a series of chained combos.

[0038] Also, the predetermined combo conditions may include the condition that the number of times an item is input by the same viewer in the combo chain is below a threshold. For example, the number of times an item is input by the same viewer is restricted to 1 or less. If an item was input by viewer A in the combo up to the previous time, the current input of an item by viewer A does not satisfy the predetermined combo conditions. Such a configuration promotes the participation of a large number of viewers in the combo chain (input of items).

[0039] In addition, the video distribution control unit 45 may be configured to assign to the distributor a quantity of a second value based at least on the viewing statuses of a plurality of viewers during the distribution of a live video. For example, the video distribution control unit 45 is configured to set the quantity of the second value to be assigned to the distributor based on, for example, the number of viewers and the input statuses such as items, comments, and likes by each of the plurality of viewers. The second value may be configured as various virtual and electronic items, points, and various parameter values that can bring benefits to the distributor. The held quantity (total value) of the second value is managed, for example, in the user information table 411 or the distribution information table 412.

[0040] In addition, the video distribution control unit 45 may be configured to start a predetermined mode in which the quantity of the second value set based at least on the viewing status increases, provided that the held quantity of the first value is equal to or greater than a threshold value. For example, when the viewing status is the same, the quantity of the second value set in the predetermined mode is greater than that in the case of not being in the predetermined mode. In this case, it can be said that the first value is a parameter value or the like accumulated to start the predetermined mode. Such a configuration enables the provision of benefits to the distributor via the predetermined mode.

[0041] In addition, the video distribution control unit 45 may be configured to start a predetermined mode in response to an instruction from the distributor after the held quantity of the first value becomes equal to or greater than the threshold value. Such a configuration enables the distributor to determine the timing to start the predetermined mode. As a result, strategy is required for the start of the predetermined mode, which can bring enjoyment to the distributor and activate the communication between the distributor and the viewers.

[0042] In addition, the video distribution control unit 45 may be configured to enable the input of items for the predetermined mode in response to the start of the predetermined mode. Such a configuration can improve the rarity value of the items for the predetermined mode and promote the input of items in the predetermined mode.

[0043] Next, a specific example of the video distribution server 10 of the present embodiment having such a function will be described. FIG. 3 illustrates the information managed in the user information table 411 in this example. The user information table 411 manages information related to users of the live video distribution service. As shown in the figure, in association with a "user account" that identifies an individual user, it includes "basic information" which is basic information of the user such as an account name, age, and gender, "distribution history information" which is information related to the distribution history of live videos, "viewing history information" which is information related to the viewing history of live videos distributed by other users, "followed user information" which is information related to other users followed by the user, "follower information" which is information related to other users (followers) who follow the user, "rank" which indicates the rank of the user as a distributor, "rank meter value" which is a parameter value for determining rank up / down, "coin holding amount" which indicates the virtual coin holding amount in the live video distribution service, "diamond holding amount" which also indicates the virtual diamond holding amount, and "fever gauge value" (first value) which indicates the value of the fever gauge for starting the fever time (predetermined mode) during the distribution of live videos, etc.

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

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

[0046] FIG. 5 illustrates the information managed in the distribution information table 412 in this example. The distribution information table 412 manages information related to the distribution of individual live videos. As shown in the figure, in association with a "distribution ID" that identifies an individual distribution, it includes a "distributor user account" that identifies the distributor of this distribution, a "distribution date and time", a "distribution time" indicating the duration of the distribution, a "number of viewers (current value and maximum value)", a "number of comments" which is the number of comments input by viewers, a "number of likes" which is the number of "likes" input by viewers, an "item point" that is added according to the input of items by viewers, "combo information" which is information related to the combos that can occur according to the input of the item, a "fever time flag" indicating whether it is currently in the fever time, a "fever score" that is added according to the input of comments, likes, and items during the fever time, a "basic point" which is the basic point given to this distribution, and manages information such as a "distribution point" (second value) which is the point obtained by adding the fever score to the basic point. The combo information includes the number of combos and a combo history (the history of item inputs in each consecutive combo (the history of combinations of viewers and items)).

[0047] FIG. 6 illustrates the top screen 60 of the live video distribution service. As shown in the figure, the screen 60 has a filter area 62 displayed as "Follow", "Popular", and "All", a list display area 64 that displays a list of live videos being distributed, and a distribution start button 66 displayed as "Distribution".

[0048] The filter area 62 is an area for setting filtering for the live videos being distributed and displayed in the list display area 64. Specifically, when "Follow" is selected in the filter area 62, the live videos listed in the list display area 64 are narrowed down to the live videos of the users followed by the user. Similarly, when "Popular" is selected in the filter area 62, the live videos listed in the list display area 64 are narrowed down to the live videos extracted according to a predetermined extraction condition for extracting popular videos (for example, live videos with the number of viewers (current value) being equal to or more than a threshold value). Also, when "All" is selected in the filter area 62, all the live videos being distributed without filtering become the targets of list display.

[0049] In the list display area 64, a plurality of individual display areas 641 each displaying information regarding an individual live video are arranged in two columns. The individual display area 641 displays, for example, a still image preset by the distributor of the live video, the account name of the distributor, and the number of viewers (current value), etc. The list display area 64 is configured such that the displayed individual display areas 641 are switched by a flick operation / slide operation in the vertical direction, etc.

[0050] The distribution start button 66 is an object for the user to start distributing a live video as a distributor. When the distribution start button 66 is selected by the user, the distribution of the live video is started. Specifically, the transmission of the video composed of the image input via the camera of the user terminal 30 and the audio input via the microphone of the user terminal 30 to the server 10 is started. Also, in response to the start of the distribution of the live video, a new record is created in the distribution information table 412.

[0051] FIG. 7 illustrates a screen 70 for a distributor that is displayed on the distributor terminal 30 in response to the selection of the distribution start button 66 (i.e., the start of the live video distribution). The screen 70 includes 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 fever gauge 73 located below the area 72, an item information display area 74 located below the fever gauge 73, an action information display area 75 located below the area 74, and a circular distribution stop button 76 located at the center of the lower end of the screen.

[0052] The video display area 71 displays the live video to be distributed, that is, the image input via the camera of the distributor terminal 30. Usually, the distributor shoots himself / herself via the front camera of the distributor terminal 30, so the live video to be distributed includes the distributor himself / herself.

[0053] The basic information display area 72 displays the basic information of this distribution. Specifically, it displays distributor information (profile image, etc.), the number of viewers of this distribution (current value), and the number of "likes" input by viewers for this distribution, etc.

[0054] The fever gauge 73 displays the value of the distributor's fever gauge in gauge form. As described above, the value of the fever gauge is managed in the user information table 411. Although it will be described in detail later, it increases according to the occurrence and chain of combos based on the input of items by viewers.

[0055] The item information display area 74 displays information regarding the input of the item in response to the input of the item by the viewer. Although it will be described in detail later.

[0056] The action information display area 75 displays information regarding actions performed by viewers. Specifically, in this area 75, a plurality of action objects AO, each corresponding to an individual action, are arranged vertically in sequence. When a new action is performed by a viewer, the corresponding action object AO is added to the lower side in the action information display area 75, and the existing action objects AO move upward in order. The action information display area 75 is configured such that the displayed action objects AO are switched by a flick operation / slide operation in the vertical direction or the like. The actions by the viewer displayed in the action information display area 75 include entry (start of viewing), input of "like", input of comments, and input of items.

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

[0058] FIG. 8 illustrates a viewer screen 80 displayed on the viewer terminal 30. For example, when an arbitrary live video is selected by a viewer via the list display area 64 of the top screen 60, the viewer screen 80 for viewing the selected live video is displayed on the viewer terminal 30. As shown in the figure, similar to the above-described distributor screen 70, the screen 80 has a video display area 81, a basic information display area 82, a fever gauge 83, an item information display area 84, and an action information display area 85. Also, at the lower end of the viewer screen 80, there are a comment input area 86, a "like" button 87 with a heart mark displayed thereon, and an item input button 88 with a present symbol displayed thereon.

[0059] The comment input area 86 is an area for viewers to input comments. When a viewer inputs a comment through this area 86, an action object AO corresponding to the input comment is added to the action information display areas 75 and 85 of the distributor screen 70 of the distributor terminal 30 and the viewer screen 80 of each viewer terminal 30. In the action object AO corresponding to the comment, the comment itself (text) is displayed together with the account name of the viewer who input the comment. Also, when a comment is input, the comment count in the distribution information table 412 is updated (incremented by 1).

[0060] The like button 87 is an object for viewers to input "like" to the distributor. When the button 87 is selected by a viewer, the input of "like" is made, and an action object AO corresponding to "like" is added to the action information display areas 75 and 85. In the action object AO corresponding to "like", text indicating that "like" has been made is displayed together with the account name of the viewer who input "like". Also, when "like" is input, a predetermined visual effect (for example, an animation effect in which a heart-shaped object is displayed flowing from the lower side to the upper side of the screen) is added to the video display areas 71 and 81. Also, when "like" is input, the "like count" in the distribution information table 412 is updated (incremented by 1).

[0061] The item input button 88 is an object for viewers to input items. When the button 88 is selected by a viewer, an item selection screen 90 illustrated in FIG. 9 is displayed overlaid on the viewer screen 80. As shown in the figure, the screen 90 displays a list of a plurality of individual display areas 92 each of which displays information related to an item. The individual display area 92 displays an image corresponding to the item and the number of coins required for the input of the item.

[0062] In this example, a plurality of items that can be input by viewers are predetermined, and for each item, the number of coins is preset as its price (value). The item selection screen 90 displays a list of the plurality of inputtable items. When any item is selected by a viewer via the item selection screen 90, the selected item is inputted.

[0063] Here, the processing related to the input of items will be described in detail. FIG. 10 is a flowchart exemplifying the processing related to the input of items by viewers, which is executed by the server 10 in this example. As shown in the figure, while the live video is being distributed (NO in step S100), the server 10 waits for the input of an item (NO in step S115), and when the combo clear condition for clearing the combo is satisfied during this waiting (YES in step S105), the server clears the previous combo (step S110). The clearing of the combo will be described later.

[0064] While waiting for the input of an item, when an item is input by any viewer (YES in step S115), the server 10 displays the corresponding action object (step S120). Specifically, in the action information display areas 75 and 85 of the distributor screen 70 and the viewer screen 80, the action object AO corresponding to the input of the item is added. The action object AO corresponding to the input of the item displays the name of the input item together with the account name of the viewer who input the item.

[0065] Subsequently, the server 10 updates the item points for this distribution (step S123). Specifically, item points corresponding to the number of coins of the input item (for example, the more the number of coins, the more the points) are given to this distribution and added to the corresponding item points of the distribution in the distribution information table 412.

[0066] Next, the server 10 updates the coin balance of the viewer who input the item (step S125). Specifically, the number of coins of the input item is subtracted from the coin balance of the corresponding user (the viewer who input the item) in the user information table 411.

[0067] Then, the server 10 determines whether the input of the item satisfies the combo condition (step S130). The combo condition in this example is composed of the following five necessary conditions. That is, when all of the following five conditions are satisfied, the combo condition is satisfied. (1) The elapsed time since the previous combo (if there is no previous combo, the input of the previous item) is within 30 seconds. (2) The number of coins of the item input this time is greater than or equal to the number of coins of the item input in the previous combo (if there is no previous combo, the input of the previous item). (3) The viewer who input the item this time has not yet input an item in the previous (ongoing) combo (the number of times the same viewer inputs an item in the combo chain is 1 or less). (4) The item input this time has not yet been input in the previous (ongoing) combo (the number of times the same item is input in the combo chain is 1 or less). (5) The fever gauge is not full.

[0068] FIG. 11 is a diagram for explaining the combo condition in this example. In FIG. 11, from top to bottom, it is exemplified how the combo number is incremented or not incremented in response to the input of items. In the following description, it is assumed that the interval between the input of the preceding and succeeding items is within 30 seconds (satisfying condition (1)), and the fever gauge is not full (satisfying condition (5)). As shown in the figure, first, it is assumed that viewer 01 inputs item A(1) (the number in parentheses is the number of coins; the same applies hereinafter). At this point, the combo number is 0.

[0069] Next, when viewer 02 inputs item B(1), the number of coins of item B input this time, "1", is greater than or equal to the number of coins of item A input last time, "1" (satisfying condition (2)), and there is no combo chain yet (satisfying conditions (3) and (4)), so the combo condition is satisfied. As a result, the combo count is incremented from "0" by 1 to become "1".

[0070] Subsequently, when viewer 03 inputs item B(1), since the item B input this time has already been input in the previous combo, condition (4) is not satisfied, and the combo condition is not satisfied. As a result, the combo count remains "1".

[0071] Then, when viewer 04 inputs item C(3), the number of coins of item C input this time, "3", is greater than or equal to the number of coins of item B input in the previous combo, "1" (satisfying condition (2)), viewer 04 who input this item has not input an item in the previous combos (satisfying condition (3)), and item C input this time has not been input in the previous combos (satisfying condition (4)), so the combo condition is satisfied. As a result, the combo count is incremented from "1" by 1 to become "2".

[0072] Subsequently, when viewer 05 inputs item D(1), since the number of coins of item D input this time, "1", is less than the number of coins of item C input in the previous combo, "3", condition (2) is not satisfied, and the combo condition is not satisfied. As a result, the combo count remains "2".

[0073] When viewer 06 inputs item E(3), the number of coins of item E input this time, "3", is equal to or greater than the number of coins of item C, "3", input in the previous combo (satisfying condition (2)). The viewer 06 who input this item has not input an item in the combo up to the previous time (satisfying condition (3)), and the item E input this time has not been input in the combo up to the previous time (satisfying condition (4)). Therefore, the combo condition is satisfied. As a result, the combo count is incremented by 1 from "2" to "3".

[0074] Subsequently, when viewer 02 inputs item F(5), the viewer 02 who input this item has already input an item in the combo up to the previous time (input item B in the first combo). Therefore, condition (3) is not satisfied, and the combo condition is not satisfied. As a result, the combo count remains at "3".

[0075] When viewer 05 inputs item F(5), the number of coins of item F input this time, "5", is equal to or greater than the number of coins of item E, "3", input in the previous combo (satisfying condition (2)). The viewer 05 who input this item has not input an item in the combo up to the previous time (satisfying condition (3)), and the item F input this time has not been input in the combo up to the previous time (satisfying condition (4)). Therefore, the combo condition is satisfied. As a result, the combo count is incremented by 1 from "3" to "4".

[0076] Returning to the flowchart of FIG. 10, when it is determined that the input of the current item does not satisfy the combo condition (NO in step S130), the server 10 displays a normal item object (step S135). On the other hand, when it is determined that the input of the current item satisfies the combo condition (YES in step S130), the server 10 displays a combo item object (step S140). FIG. 12 illustrates a viewer screen 80 in which an item object IO is displayed in the item information display area 84. Similarly, the item object IO is also displayed in the item information display area 74 of the distributor screen 70. The item object IO disappears after a predetermined time has elapsed after being displayed in the item information display areas 74 and 84. Note that a predetermined visual effect corresponding to the input item may be added to the video display areas 71 and 81 along with the display or disappearance of the item object IO.

[0077] In this example, the normal item object when the input of the item does not satisfy the combo condition and the combo item object when the input of the item satisfies the combo condition have different appearances from each other. FIG. 13(A) illustrates a normal item object IO1, and FIG. 13(B) illustrates a combo item object IO2. As shown in the figure, the normal item object IO1 has a rounded rectangular contour and has a circular viewer image display area IO11 on the left side for displaying the profile image of the viewer who input the item. In addition, the normal item object IO1 displays the viewer's account name, as well as the name and image of the input item. On the other hand, as shown in the figure, the combo item object IO2 has a normal (non-rounded) rectangular contour and has a trapezoidal viewer image display area IO21 on the left side for displaying the profile image of the viewer who input the item. In addition to the viewer's account name, and the name and image of the input item, the combo item object IO2 also displays the combo number (in the example of FIG. 13(B), it is displayed as "5 combo").

[0078] Returning to the flowchart of FIG. 10, when the input of an item does not satisfy the combo condition, after displaying the normal-use item object, the server 10 returns to step S100 and waits for the input of an item again.

[0079] On the other hand, when the input of an item satisfies the combo condition, after displaying the combo-use item object, the server 10 updates the combo information and the fever gauge value (step S145). Specifically, in the distribution information table 412, the corresponding distribution combo information (combo number and combo history) and the fever gauge value are updated. In the update of the combo information, the combo number is incremented by 1, and information (combination of viewer and item) regarding the current input of the item is added to the combo history. Also, in the update of the fever gauge value, an added value set based on the coin number of the currently input item and the updated combo number is added to the fever gauge value. The added value becomes larger as the coin number and the combo number are larger. When the fever gauge value is updated, the display of the fever gauges 73 and 83 on the distributor screen 70 and the viewer screen 80 is also updated.

[0080] And when the updated fever gauge is not full (the fever gauge value has not reached the maximum value) (NO in step S150), the server 10 returns to step S100 and waits for the input of an item again.

[0081] As described above, when the combo clear condition is satisfied during the period of waiting for the input of an item (YES in step S105), the combo is cleared (step S110). Here, the clearing of the combo will be described. The combo clear condition in this example is that any of the following conditions is satisfied. (1) The elapsed time from the previous combo reaches 30 seconds (2) The fever gauge becomes full When any of these conditions is met, the combo is cleared. Specifically, in the distribution information table 412, the combo information (number of combos and combo history) for the corresponding distribution is cleared (initialized). That is, it can be said that the chainable period in this example is "within 30 seconds from the previous combo".

[0082] On the other hand, as a result of the occurrence and chaining of combos being repeated, when the fever gauge becomes full (the fever gauge value reaches the maximum value) (YES in step S150), the server 10 displays a fever time instruction screen on the distributor terminal 30 (step S155), returns to step S100, and waits for the input of an item again.

[0083] FIG. 14 illustrates a fever time instruction screen 110 displayed on the distributor terminal 30. As shown in the figure, the screen 110 is displayed overlaid on the distributor screen 70 and has a circular fever time button 112 displayed as "FEVER START" and a hold button 114 displayed as "Do later". When the distributor selects the fever time button 112, the fever time starts.

[0084] When the fever time starts, a predetermined visual effect (for example, an animation effect such as the string "FEVER" being displayed as if it were dancing) is added to the video display areas 71 and 81 of the distributor screen 70 and the viewer screen 80. Also, during the fever time, a fever score is added according to the comments, likes, and item inputs by each viewer. The fever score is managed in the distribution information table 412 as described above. Note that during the fever time, the update of the number of comments, likes, and item points according to the comments, likes, and item inputs by each viewer is also continuously performed. That is, it can be said that the fever time is a mode in which, in addition to adding the number of comments, likes, and item points, a fever score is added. Note that during the fever time, instead of or in addition to the normal items that can be input via the item selection screen 90, it may be possible to input items for the fever time.

[0085] In this example, the fever time ends when the elapsed time since the start reaches a predetermined time (for example, 60 seconds). In response to the end of the fever time, the fever gauge value and the combo are cleared (initialized). Then, after that, when the fever gauge becomes full again, the fever time instruction screen 110 is displayed again, and it becomes possible to start the fever time. Note that each time the fever gauge becomes full, the difficulty of filling the next fever gauge may be increased (for example, the maximum value of the fever gauge value is increased). Also, for each distributor, a limit may be set on the number of times the fever gauge is filled in a unit period (for example, one day) (that is, the number of times the fever time is limited).

[0086] In this example, when the distributor selects the hold button 114 on the fever time instruction screen 110, the start of the fever time is put on hold. During the hold period, viewers can input items, but since the fever gauge is full (because the above-mentioned condition (5) is not met), the combo condition is not met (no combo occurs). The distributor can instruct the start of the fever time at a desired timing (e.g., the timing when a potential viewer starts watching, etc.) during the hold period.

[0087] As described above, when the distributor selects the distribution stop button 76 on the distributor screen 70, the live video distribution ends. When the live video distribution ends, the server 10 sets the distribution points for the distribution. In this example, the basic points are calculated based on the number of viewers (maximum value), the number of likes, the number of comments, and the item points, and the fever score during the fever time is added to the basic points to obtain the distribution points. The basic 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 basic points and distribution points are registered in the distribution information table 412.

[0088] Note that even after the live video distribution ends, the fever gauge value managed in the user information table 411 is maintained. That is, in this example, the fever gauge value (the state of the fever gauge) is carried over to the next distribution. Note that the fever gauge value (the state of the fever gauge) may be cleared (initialized) at a predetermined timing (e.g., every day at midnight, etc.).

[0089] Also, in this example, the rank for the current day is determined (updated) based on the distribution points obtained by the user the previous day. FIG. 15 is a flowchart illustrating the processing executed by the server 10 when updating the rank of each user. These processes are executed every day at midnight (e.g., 3:00 am every day).

[0090] First, as shown in the figure, the server 10 updates the rank meter value of each user (step S300). FIG. 16 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 rank within the rank band of the distribution points obtained by the user on the previous day. The distribution points obtained by a specific user on the previous day are calculated by referring to the distributor user account, distribution date and time, and distribution points in the distribution information table 412. In addition, when a user performs multiple distributions in one day, the distribution points obtained in each of the multiple distributions are added together.

[0091] Specifically, as shown in FIG. 16, the update rule of the rank meter value is as follows. First, when the rank of the distribution points within the rank band is included in the top 10%, the fluctuation of the rank meter value is "+2" (an increase of 2 points). Similarly, when the rank is included in the top 11-30% (the remaining 20% excluding the top 10% from the top 30%), the fluctuation is "+1", when the rank is included in the middle 30% (the top 31-60%), the fluctuation is "±0" (no increase or decrease), and when the rank is included in the bottom 40%, the fluctuation is "-1" (a decrease of 1 point). In addition, when no distribution was performed on the previous day, regardless of the rank within the rank band, the fluctuation of the rank meter value is "-1".

[0092] In step S300, the rank meter value of each user is updated according to the update rule illustrated in FIG. 16. For a user whose rank meter value is negative and when the current fluctuation of the rank meter value is an increase (specifically, +2 or +1), it is also possible to clear the rank meter value to 0 and then increase it. That is, for example, when the current value of the rank meter value of a user is "-1" and the current fluctuation is "+2", after clearing the rank meter value to 0, increase it by 2, and the rank meter value after the fluctuation is "+2" (not "+1"). By doing so, even for a user whose rank meter value is negative (such as a user with a low distribution frequency), the rank meter value can be increased at once, so the distribution of live videos is promoted.

[0093] When the rank meter value of each user is updated, next, the server 10 updates the rank based on the updated rank meter value (step S310). FIG. 17 is a diagram for explaining the correspondence between the updated content of the rank and the necessary rank meter value. As shown in the figure, first, when ranking up across rank bands (in other words, when ranking up from the top rank within each rank band), the necessary rank meter value is +4. That is, a user belonging to the top rank within each rank band (for example, A+) will rank up to the bottom rank within the immediately higher rank band (for example, S-) when the rank meter value reaches +4. Also, when ranking up within the same rank band (in other words, when ranking up from the middle or bottom rank within each rank band), the necessary rank meter value is +2. That is, a user belonging to the middle or bottom rank within each rank band (for example, B or B-) will rank up to the rank immediately above within the same rank band (for example, B+ or B) when the rank meter value reaches +2.

[0094] Similarly, as illustrated in FIG. 17, when ranking down within the same rank band (in other words, when ranking down from the top or middle rank within each rank band), the necessary rank meter value is -2. That is, a user belonging to the top or middle rank within each rank band (for example, B+ or B) will rank down to the rank immediately below within the same rank band (for example, B or B-) when the rank meter value reaches -2. Also, when ranking down across rank bands, the necessary rank meter value is -6. That is, a user belonging to the bottom rank within each rank band (for example, A-) will rank down to the top rank within the immediately lower rank band (for example, B+) when the rank meter value reaches -6. In this way, in this example, ranking up / down across rank bands has a larger absolute value of the necessary rank meter value compared to ranking up / down within the same rank band. As a result, rapid ranking up / down in a short period is suppressed.

[0095] In step S310, the rank is updated based on the rank meter value according to the correspondence relationship illustrated in FIG. 17. Note that the rank meter value of the user whose rank has been updated (the user for whom rank up / down has occurred) is cleared to 0.

[0096] FIG. 18 illustrates a rank meter object 100 that displays the rank meter value of a user. The object 100 is arranged, for example, on a profile screen or the like that displays the basic information of the user. As shown in the figure, the rank meter object 100 has a needle object 102 having a needle shape and a scale object 104 having a C-shaped alphabet that opens downward. Below the needle object 102, the current rank of the user (in the example of FIG. 18, "A rank") is displayed. The needle object 102 is configured to swing (rotate) to the right as the rank meter value increases and to swing to the left as the rank meter value decreases. The needle object 102 in FIG. 18 is in an upright state (pointing in the 12 o'clock direction) and corresponds to the state where the rank meter value is 0. Also, the needle object 102 inclines to the right as the rank meter value increases in the positive direction and inclines to the left as it decreases in the negative direction. And on the lower right side of the scale object 104, a rank-up region 1041 corresponding to the rank meter value required for rank up is set, and similarly, on the lower left side of the scale object 104, a rank-down region 1042 corresponding to the rank meter value required for rank down is set. The user can grasp the current situation of the rank meter value for rank up / down via the rank meter object 100.

[0097] Also, in this example, diamonds, which are rewards for users as distributors based on the previous day's delivery time and rank (rank on the previous day), are granted. FIG. 19 is a flowchart illustrating the processing executed by the server 10 when granting diamonds to each distributor. These processes are executed late at night every day, for example, at a time before the time when the ranks of each user illustrated in FIG. 15 are updated (for example, 0:00 am every day).

[0098] First, as illustrated, the server 10 calculates the previous day's delivery time for each user (step S400). Specifically, the previous day's delivery time of a specific user is calculated by referring to the distributor user account and the delivery date and time in the delivery information table 412. When a user makes multiple deliveries in a day, the delivery times of each of the multiple deliveries are added together.

[0099] Subsequently, the server 10 grants a number of diamonds to each user based on the calculated delivery time and the number of diamonds based on the reference number of diamonds (step S410). Specifically, the number of diamonds obtained by multiplying the calculated delivery time by the reference number of diamonds is granted to each user. The reference number of diamonds is preset for each rank so that the higher the rank, the more diamonds there are, and the reference number of diamonds corresponding to the previous day's rank of each user 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.

[0100] In the example described above, the fever gauge value is added according to the occurrence or chain of combos, and when the fever gauge is full, the start of the fever time becomes possible, and the fever score during the fever time is added to the delivery points. However, such a design is an example, and in other examples of this embodiment, other designs can be applied. For example, in such other examples, delivery points can be directly added according to the occurrence or chain of combos. Also, in still other examples of this embodiment, the value / benefit granted to the distributor according to the occurrence of a combo is not limited to the fever gauge value and delivery points, and can be, for example, coins and diamonds.

[0101] When it is determined that the input of an item by each of a plurality of viewers of a live video satisfies a predetermined combo condition, the video distribution server 10 of the present embodiment described above generates a combo. Therefore, it is possible to activate communication among the viewers of the live video. Further, since a first value (for example, a fever gauge value) is given to the distributor in response to the generation of such a combo, the connection between the distributor and the viewers of the live video can be strengthened.

[0102] The processes and procedures described in this specification are realized by software, hardware, or any combination thereof, in addition to those explicitly described. For example, the processes and procedures described in this specification are realized by implementing logic corresponding to the processes and procedures in a medium such as an integrated circuit, volatile memory, non-volatile memory, magnetic disk, etc. Further, the processes and procedures described in this specification can be implemented as a computer program corresponding to the processes and procedures and executed on various computers.

[0103] Even if it is described that the processes and procedures described in this specification are executed by a single device, software, component, or module, such processes or procedures can be executed by a plurality of devices, a plurality of software, a plurality of components, and / or a plurality of modules. Also, the software and hardware elements described in this specification can be realized by integrating them into fewer components or decomposing them into more components.

[0104] In this specification, even when a component of the invention is described as either singular or plural, or is described without being limited to either singular or plural, unless the context requires otherwise, the component may be either singular or plural.

Explanation of Reference Numerals

[0105] 10 Video distribution server 11 Computer processor 15 Storage (memory device) 20 Communication network 30 User terminal 41 Information storage management unit 43 Basic function control unit 45 Video distribution control unit 60 Top screen 70 Screen for distributor 73 Fever gauge 80 Screen for viewer 83 Fever gauge 90 Item selection screen 100 Rank meter object 110 Fever time instruction screen

Claims

1. 1. A system for streaming live 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 a live video provided by a distributor to each of a plurality of viewers; receiving input of an item from each of the plurality of viewers during distribution of a live video provided by the distributor; a process of determining whether or not the current input of an item by each of the plurality of viewers satisfies a predetermined combo condition, and generating a combo when it is determined that the current input of the item satisfies the predetermined combo condition; and executing a process of granting a first value to the distributor in response to the occurrence of a combo. system.

2. the process of generating a combo includes, when the current item is input during a combo chaining possible period during which a combo chaining is possible with respect to a previous combo, and when it is determined that the current item input satisfies the predetermined combo condition, chaining the currently generated combo to the previous combo; the process of granting the first value includes granting the first value to the distributor in a larger amount as the number of consecutive combos increases; The system of claim 1.

3. The one or more computer processors further execute a process of clearing a chain of combos in response to an end of the chain possible period. The system of claim 2.

4. The predetermined combo condition includes a condition that a relationship between the value of the currently input item and the value of the previously input item or the value of the item input in the previous combo is a predetermined relationship.

4. A system according to claim 2 or 3.

5. The predetermined combo condition includes a condition that the number of times the same item is input in a combo chain is equal to or less than a threshold value.

5. A system according to any one of claims 2 to 4.

6. The predetermined combo condition includes a condition that the number of times an item is input by the same viewer in a combo chain is equal to or less than a threshold value.

6. A system according to any one of claims 2 to 5.

7. The one or more computer processors further include: a process of granting a quantity of a second value to the distributor, the quantity being set based at least on a viewing status of the plurality of viewers during distribution of the live video provided by the distributor; and executing a process of starting a predetermined mode configured to increase the quantity of the second value based at least on a viewing situation, with the necessary condition that the held quantity of the first value is equal to or greater than a threshold.

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

8. the process of starting the predetermined mode includes starting the predetermined mode in response to an instruction from the distributor after the held quantity of the first value becomes equal to or greater than a threshold value. The system of claim 7.

9. The process of accepting the input of the item includes enabling input of an item for the predetermined mode in response to starting the predetermined mode.

9. The system of claim 7 or 8.

10. 1. A method for streaming live video, executed by one or more computers, comprising: A step of distributing a live video provided by a distributor to each of a plurality of viewers; receiving an input of an item from each of the plurality of viewers during distribution of a live video provided by the distributor; determining whether or not the current input of the item satisfies a predetermined combo condition in response to the input of an item by each of the plurality of viewers, and generating a combo when it is determined that the current input of the item satisfies the predetermined combo condition; and granting a first value to the distributor in response to the occurrence of a combo. method.

11. A program for distributing live video, In response to being executed on one or more computers, the one or more computers are A process of distributing a live video provided by a distributor to each of a plurality of viewers; receiving input of an item from each of the plurality of viewers during distribution of a live video provided by the distributor; a process of determining whether or not the current input of an item by each of the plurality of viewers satisfies a predetermined combo condition, and generating a combo when it is determined that the current input of the item satisfies the predetermined combo condition; and executing a process of granting a first value to the distributor in response to the occurrence of a combo. program.

Images