Video distribution system, video distribution device, video distribution method, and video distribution program

Abstract

To provide a technology capable of supporting communication between a distributor and a viewer.SOLUTION: A video distribution system according to one embodiment which distributes live broadcast content acquired from a distributor terminal used by a distributor to a viewer terminal used by a viewer comprises: an information content processing unit that transmits first content display data for displaying shared content to the distributor terminal, and transmits second content display data for displaying the shared content to the viewer terminal.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 8

Description

[Technical Field]

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

[0002] In recent years, distribution of video content via networks has become common. Services that enable viewers to communicate with the distributor by posting comments and the like while the video content is being distributed are widely provided.

[0003] However, beginners may find it difficult to find topics to share with viewers while streaming video content, which can lead to a lack of excitement. Therefore, there is a need for technology that provides topics that can be shared between streamers and viewers in order to stimulate communication between them.

[0004] Patent Document 1 proposes a technology for displaying social content on top of a program currently being watched on a TV. However, Patent Document 1 does not provide topics that can be shared between broadcasters and viewers.

[0005] Patent Document 2 proposes a technology for generating and displaying a VR image in which a component displaying related information is superimposed on the image. However, Patent Document 2 does not provide a topic that can be shared between the distributor and the viewer. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0006] [Patent Document 1] Special Publication No. 2015-536056 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2022-79503 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0007] Conventional techniques are unable to provide topics that can be shared between the distributor and the viewer during video content distribution, and are unable to support communication between the distributor and the viewer.

[0008] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above circumstances, and aims to provide a technology that can support communication between distributors and viewers. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] A video distribution system according to a first aspect of the present invention is a video distribution system that distributes live broadcast content obtained from a distributor terminal used by a distributor to a viewer terminal used by a viewer, and includes an information content processing unit that transmits first content display data to the distributor terminal for displaying shared content and transmits second content display data to the viewer terminal for displaying the shared content.

[0010] In a video distribution system according to a second aspect of the present invention, the shared content includes a list of content, the first content display data includes data for displaying a first element into which a selection instruction can be input to display at least a portion of selected content included in the list of content, and the information content processing unit transmits selected content display data for displaying at least a portion of the selected content to the distributor terminal and the viewer terminal based on the selection instruction from the distributor via the first element.

[0011] In a video distribution system according to a third aspect of the present invention, the shared content includes a list of content, the second content display data includes data for displaying a second element into which a display instruction can be input to display an object for object display target content included in the list of content, and the information content processing unit transmits object display data for displaying an object for the object display target content to the distributor terminal and the viewer terminal based on the display instruction from the viewer via the second element.

[0012] In the video distribution system according to the fourth aspect of the present invention, the information content processing unit switches between displaying the list of contents and displaying the selected content based on a selection instruction from the distributor.

[0013] In the video distribution system according to the fifth aspect of the present invention, the selected content display data includes link information relating to the selected content.

[0014] In the video distribution system according to the sixth aspect of the present invention, the object is made invisible based on the lapse of a predetermined time.

[0015] In the video distribution system according to the seventh aspect of the present invention, the information content processing unit limits the number of display instructions that can be input by the viewer within a predetermined time period.

[0016] In the video distribution system according to the eighth aspect of the present invention, the information content processing unit limits the number of the objects displayed within a predetermined time period.

[0017] In the video distribution system according to a ninth aspect of the present invention, the list of contents is a list in which the contents are arranged in a predetermined order.

[0018] A video distribution device according to a 10th aspect of the present invention is a video distribution device that distributes live broadcast content obtained from a distributor terminal used by a distributor to a viewer terminal used by a viewer, and is equipped with an information content processing unit that transmits first content display data to the distributor terminal for displaying shared content and transmits second content display data to the viewer terminal for displaying the shared content.

[0019] A video distribution method according to an eleventh aspect of the present invention is a video distribution method for distributing live broadcast content obtained from a distributor terminal used by a distributor to a viewer terminal used by a viewer, and includes an information content processing step of transmitting first content display data for displaying shared content to the distributor terminal and transmitting second content display data for displaying the shared content to the viewer terminal.

[0020] A video distribution program according to a 12th aspect of the present invention is a video distribution program that distributes live broadcast content obtained from a distributor terminal used by a distributor to a viewer terminal used by a viewer, and causes a computer to function as an information content processing means that transmits first content display data for displaying shared content to the distributor terminal and transmits second content display data for displaying the shared content to the viewer terminal. [Effects of the Invention]

[0021] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a video distribution system, a video distribution device, a video distribution method, and a video distribution program that can support communication between distributors and viewers. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0022] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of a video distribution system including a video distribution device according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of the video distribution device according to the embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of a video distribution image displayed on a distributor terminal according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of a content menu image displayed on the distributor terminal according to the embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of a list display image displayed on the distributor terminal according to the embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of a selected content display image displayed on the distributor terminal according to the embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating another example of a list display image displayed on the distributor terminal according to the embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a sequence diagram illustrating an example of an information processing procedure performed by the video distribution system according to the embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a sequence diagram illustrating an example of a procedure for information processing related to object display by the video distribution system according to the embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0023] Hereinafter, a video distribution system, a video distribution device, a video distribution method, and a video distribution program according to embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0024] (Configuration example) FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a video distribution system S including a video distribution device according to an embodiment.

[0025] The video distribution system S includes a video distribution device 1, a distributor terminal 2, and a viewer terminal 3. The video distribution device 1 can be communicatively connected to the distributor terminal 2 and the viewer terminal 3 via a network. While one distributor terminal 2 is shown in FIG. 1, the number of distributor terminals 2 may be multiple and is not limited to the number shown. Although three viewer terminals 3 are shown in FIG. 1, the number of viewer terminals 3 is not limited to the number shown. The video distribution system S is a system for distributing video content acquired from a distributor terminal 2 used by a distributor to viewer terminals 3 used by viewers.

[0026] The video distribution device 1 is a server device that provides video distribution services via a network. The video distribution device 1 is an electronic device including a computer with information processing capabilities. The video distribution device 1 distributes video content data to a viewer terminal 3 based on video content data acquired from a distributor terminal 2. The video distribution device 1 manages the progress of the video content and transmits data according to the progress of the video content to the distributor terminal 2 and the viewer terminal 3. The progress indicates the progress of the content based on time or elapsed time. The video content may be live broadcast content or recorded video content. In the following description, the video content will be described as live broadcast content. Live broadcast content is also referred to as live broadcast content. In the following description, "distribution" can be read as "sending" or "outputting" and "receiving" interchangeably. Furthermore, "acquisition" can be read as "receiving."

[0027] The video distribution device 1 transmits information content acquired via a network to the distributor terminal 2 and the viewer terminal 3. The information content is content data different from the video content data acquired from the distributor terminal 2. The information content may include image data such as text data, video data, and still image data. The information content may include, for example, data acquired via the Internet through RSS (Rich Site Summary), API (Application Programming Interface), web crawlers, etc. The information content may include news site rankings, blog rankings, posts on SNS (Social Networking Service), etc. The information content may include various information content of different genres. A genre, for example, indicates a category in which various information is classified based on an arbitrary criterion. Genres include, for example, categories such as business, sports, games, and anime. A genre may also be a classification including information of multiple categories, such as access rankings and picks. The information content may include at least one topic classified into each genre. A topic indicates information classified into each genre. A topic may indicate an item of information classified into each genre. For example, if the genre is "sports," a topic might be "XXX's success in Major League Baseball." The term "topic" may also be interpreted as a topic or news. The information content may be information ordered according to a predetermined order. The predetermined order includes, for example, ranking order and date order. The ranking order includes access count order, popularity order, attention order, number of comments order, and recommendation order. The date order includes newest order, etc. The video distribution device 1 may acquire information content ordered according to a predetermined order. The video distribution device 1 may order the acquired information content according to a predetermined order. The predetermined order may be an order predetermined by an administrator of the video distribution system S, etc. The predetermined order may be an order predetermined by the distributor. The information content may be the same content displayed on the distributor terminal 2 and the viewer terminal 3.The same content refers to content that presents the same subject matter. Information content is an example of shared content that is shared between a distributor and a viewer. Information content is also simply called content.

[0028] The information content may include a content list. The content list is a list in which information content is arranged in a predetermined order. The content list may be a topic list for each genre. The content list may include any number of topics. The content list may be, for example, a list including topics of a genre selected by the distributor from multiple genres. The content list is also referred to as a topic list. The content list may be information generated based on ordering information of the information content. For example, the content list may include the top 100 topics in the access ranking for the last 24 hours. The content list is also simply referred to as a list. The information content may be information content related to video content data acquired from the distributor terminal 2. The information content may be information content classified in the same genre as the video content data. The information content may include information content unrelated to the video content data acquired from the distributor terminal 2. The information content may be information content randomly extracted via the Internet.

[0029] The information content may be, for example, content processed by the video distribution device 1. The video distribution device 1 may, for example, create a list in which information content acquired via a network is arranged in a predetermined order. The video distribution device 1 may trim the information content acquired via a network to a predetermined display size. Trimming may include reducing the number of characters included in a string of characters, etc.

[0030] The distributor terminal 2 is an electronic device including a computer that can be connected to a content source such as a video camera. The distributor terminal 2 can be, for example, a television receiver (including an Internet television), a PC (Personal Computer), a mobile terminal (for example, a tablet, a smartphone, a laptop, a feature phone, a portable game console, a digital music player, an e-book reader, etc.), a VR (Virtual Reality) terminal, an AR (Augmented Reality) terminal, etc., but is not limited to these.

[0031] The distributor terminal 2 includes, for example, at least one processor and a memory storing a program executed by the processor, and is configured to be able to realize various functions by software or a combination of software and hardware. The distributor terminal 2 can receive information content data from the video distribution device 1 and present the information content to the distributor by display means, audio means, etc. (not shown). The distributor terminal 2 is an example of a terminal.

[0032] The viewer terminal 3 is an electronic device including a computer. The viewer terminal 3 may be, for example, a television receiver (including an Internet television), a PC, a mobile terminal (for example, a tablet, a smartphone, a laptop, a feature phone, a portable game console, a digital music player, an e-book reader, etc.), a VR terminal, an AR terminal, etc., but is not limited to these.

[0033] The viewer terminal 3 is, for example, equipped with at least one processor and a memory in which a program executed by the processor is stored, and is configured to be able to realize various functions by software or a combination of software and hardware.

[0034] The viewer terminal 3 is capable of receiving video content data from the video distribution device 1 and presenting the video content to the viewer using display means, audio means, etc. (not shown). The viewer terminal 3 is capable of receiving information content data from the video distribution device 1 and presenting the information content to the viewer using display means, audio means, etc. (not shown). The viewer terminal 3 is an example of a terminal.

[0035] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of the video distribution device 1 according to the embodiment. The video distribution device 1 shown in FIG. 1 includes a control unit 11, a communication unit 12, a storage unit 13, and a timing unit 14 as shown in FIG.

[0036] The control unit 11 constitutes a computer corresponding to the central part of the video distribution device 1. The control unit 11 includes one or more processors. The processor is typically a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and / or a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), but may also be a microcomputer, an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), a DSP (Digital Signal Processor), or the like. The control unit 11 includes a memory. The memory includes a ROM (Read Only Memory) as a non-volatile memory area. The memory includes a RAM (Random Access Memory) as a volatile memory area. The processor loads a program stored in the ROM or the storage unit 13 into the RAM. The processor executes the program loaded into the RAM, thereby causing the control unit 11 to control the overall operation of the video distribution device 1. The control unit 11 is, for example, a processing circuit.

[0037] The communication unit 12 is a communication interface that includes a NIC (Network Interface Card controller) for wired or wireless communication, and communicates with the distributor terminal 2 and the viewer terminal 3 via a network.

[0038] The storage unit 13 may be realized by a non-volatile storage medium such as an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) or an SSD (Solid State Drive). The storage unit 13 stores video content data received from the distributor terminal 2. The content data may include image data such as live broadcast video content data for real-time distribution and time-shifted video content data. Live broadcast video content data is also referred to as live broadcast content or live broadcast content data. Time-shifted distribution involves distributing recorded video content from the beginning of the content in response to a user request. Time-shifted distribution is also referred to as archived distribution. Time-shifted distribution is also referred to as on-demand distribution. Time-shifted video content is recorded live broadcast video content that was previously distributed to the viewer terminal 3 in real time. The storage unit 13 stores the video content data in association with video content identification information. The video content identification information is information that can identify each video content and includes information such as a video content ID or a video content name. The video content identification information may also include genre information that identifies the type or genre of the video content. The video content identification information may include keyword information indicating keywords included in the content. The video content identification information may include information for accessing the video content. The storage unit 13 may store the video content data in association with identification information (distributor identification information) of the distributor or the distributor terminal 2.

[0039] The storage unit 13 stores information content data acquired via the network. The storage unit 13 stores the information content data in association with information content identification information. The information content identification information is information capable of identifying each information content, and includes information such as an information content ID or an information content name, and information regarding the source of the information content. The information regarding the source includes, for example, link information that allows access to the page from which the information content is collected. The information content data may include information indicating the genre of the information content. The information content data may include information indicating the creation date and time of the information content. The information content data may include, for example, information indicating the number of times the information content has been accessed. The information content data may include any other data.

[0040] The memory unit 13 stores user information of viewers or viewer terminals 3. The user information may include identification information (viewer identification information) of the viewer or viewer terminal 3. The user information includes information indicating a user rank. The user rank indicates a user classification that distinguishes members into stages. For example, the user rank may include ranks such as premium member and regular member. A premium member may have a higher user rank than a regular member. The user rank may be ranks such as gold, silver, bronze, etc. Gold, silver, and bronze may be applied to users in descending order of user rank. The user information may include viewing information of video content and a viewing history of the video content. The viewing information is information indicating the viewing status of the video content. The viewing information may include identification information of the video content being viewed. The viewing status includes statuses such as when the video content is being viewed or when the user has left the video content. The viewing history of the video content includes information on video content that has been viewed in the past. The memory unit 13 may store user information of a distributor or a distributor terminal 2, as well as user information of a viewer or viewer terminal 3.

[0041] The timing unit 14 is composed of an oscillator circuit and a variable PLL (Phase Locked Loop) for generating a clock signal, a counter circuit for counting the number of pulses of the clock signal, etc. The timing unit 14 measures the time based on the number of pulses counted. The control unit 11 executes various controls at timings based on the number of pulses counted by the timing unit 14. The control unit 11 also counts the elapsed time from the start of the video content and determines whether a predetermined time has elapsed, based on the time measured by the timing unit 14.

[0042] The following describes the functional configuration of the control unit 11. The control unit 11 functions as a video content acquisition unit 110, a video content distribution unit 111, and an information content processing unit 112. Each unit can be interpreted as the control unit 11 or a processor.

[0043] The video content acquisition unit 110 receives video content data from the distributor terminal 2 via the communication unit 12. The video content data includes live broadcast content data. The video content data is data that can be identified by video content identification information. The video content acquisition unit 110 stores the video content data in the storage unit 13.

[0044] The video content distribution unit 111 distributes video content data to the viewer terminal 3 via the communication unit 12. For example, the video content distribution unit 111 acquires a distribution request from the viewer terminal 3 via a network. In response to the distribution request received from the viewer terminal 3, the video content distribution unit 111 acquires the video content data for which the distribution request was received from the storage unit 13 and distributes the video content data to the viewer terminal 3. The distribution request from the viewer terminal 3 may include viewer identification information and video content identification information. The viewer identification information is information that identifies the user who input the distribution request. In the following description, "in response" may be read as "based on."

[0045] The video content distribution unit 111 may manage the start and end of distribution of video content data based on, for example, time information obtained from the timing unit 14, the distribution time of the video content data, a distribution schedule, etc. Note that the video content distribution unit 111 may manage the start and end of distribution of video content so that distribution of video content starts in real time when video content data is received, and distribution of video content ends when the video content data ends.

[0046] The video content distribution unit 111 may distribute the video content stored in the storage unit 13 in response to a distribution request input from the viewer terminal 3.

[0047] The video content distribution unit 111 may immediately discard the video content data that has already been distributed, but may also buffer it for a predetermined period of time to enable replay or slow motion playback, for example.

[0048] The video content distribution unit 111 may distribute data that includes comments input from the viewer terminal 3 added to the video content. The video content distribution unit 111 may output data in which the comments are synthesized or superimposed on the video content data, or may output the video content data and the comment data separately. The comments input from the viewer terminal 3 may be synthesized or superimposed on the video content using known technology. The video content distribution unit 111 may distribute comment data so as to synthesize or superimpose the comments on the information content. The comments may be comments about the video content, or may be comments about the information content.

[0049] The information content processing unit 112 processes information content. The information content processing unit 112 acquires information content data via a network. The information content processing unit 112 stores the acquired information content data in the storage unit 13. The information content processing unit 112 generates content display data for displaying the information content based on the information content data. The information content processing unit 112 generates the content display data based on an instruction from the distributor terminal 2.

[0050] The information content processing unit 112 transmits content display data for displaying information content to the distributor terminal 2 based on an instruction from the distributor terminal 2. The content display data is data for displaying information content by combining or superimposing it on video content data. The content display data transmitted to the distributor terminal 2 is also referred to as first information content data. The information content processing unit 112 transmits the first information content data to the distributor terminal 2 based on a user operation of the distributor terminal 2.

[0051] The information content processing unit 112 generates first content menu display data based on receiving an information content display instruction from the distributor terminal 2 via the network. The first content menu display data is an example of first information content data. The first content menu display data is data for displaying a content menu indicating the genre of the information content. The content menu includes information indicating at least one genre. The first content menu display data includes data for displaying a first element. The first element is an element into which a distributor can input an instruction. The first element indicates, for example, an operator into which a user (distributor) of the distributor terminal 2 can input an instruction. The data for displaying the first element is, for example, data for displaying a button. The data for displaying the first element is not limited to a button, and may be data for displaying an element into which a distributor can input an instruction, such as a predetermined area. The data for displaying the first element may include, for example, a signal indicating an instruction to display the first element. The content menu is, for example, a menu image including genres selectable by the distributor. The first content menu display data includes, for example, genre selection buttons that allow the distributor to select a desired genre. The genre selection buttons are an example of a first element.

[0052] The information content processing unit 112 transmits first content menu display data to the distributor terminal 2 via the network. The distributor can select a desired genre from multiple genres included in the content menu. For example, the distributor selects a genre selection button indicating the desired genre. Based on the distributor's operation of the genre selection button, the distributor terminal 2 outputs a genre selection instruction to the video distribution device 1 via the network to specify the genre selected by the distributor. The genre selection instruction is, for example, an instruction to display a list of topics included in the selected genre. The genre selection instruction may include genre identification information that can identify the genre and distributor identification information that can identify the distributor who selected the genre. The information content processing unit 112 receives the genre selection instruction from the distributor terminal 2 via the network.

[0053] The first content menu display data may include a selection completion button for instructing completion of genre selection. The selection completion button is an example of a first element. For example, the distributor selects a desired genre by touching or clicking, and then selects the selection completion button. Based on the distributor's operation of the selection completion button, the distributor terminal 2 may output a genre selection instruction to the video distribution device 1 via the network to specify the genre selected by the distributor.

[0054] The information content processing unit 112 generates first list display data including a list of information content based on receiving a genre selection instruction from the distributor terminal 2 via the network. The first list display data is an example of first information content data. The first list display data is data for displaying a list of topics. The list may be a list of topics for each genre. The list may be a list of topics included in at least one genre selected by the distributor. The information content processing unit 112 may generate data for displaying the list based on ordering information of the information content. The list, for example, shows a list image including topics selectable by the distributor. The first list display data includes, for example, a topic selection button that allows the distributor to input an instruction to display at least some of the topics included in the list. The topic selected by the distributor is also referred to as, for example, a selected topic. The topic selection button may be, for example, an area in which the topics included in the list are displayed. The topic selection button is an example of a first element. The selected topic is an example of selected content.

[0055] The information content processing unit 112 transmits first list display data including a list of information contents to the distributor terminal 2 via the network. The distributor can select a desired topic from the topics included in the list. For example, the distributor selects a topic selection button indicating the desired topic. Based on the distributor's operation of the topic selection button, the distributor terminal 2 outputs a topic selection instruction for specifying the topic selected by the distributor to the video distribution device 1 via the network. The topic selection instruction is, for example, an instruction for displaying at least a portion of the topic selected via the topic selection button. The topic selection instruction may include topic identification information that can identify the selected topic and distributor identification information that can identify the distributor who selected the selected topic. The information content processing unit 112 receives the topic selection instruction from the distributor terminal 2 via the network.

[0056] The information content processing unit 112 generates first selected content display data for displaying at least a portion of a selected topic based on receiving a topic selection instruction from the distributor terminal 2 via the network. The first selected content display data is an example of first information content data. The first selected content display data is data for displaying a topic selected by the distributor. The selected content is a selected content image showing the topic selected by the distributor. The selected content includes at least a portion of the topic selected by the distributor. The selected content may be a portion or all of the selected topic. For example, a portion of the selected topic may be the title of the selected topic. A portion of the selected topic may be a portion or all of the first sentence of the selected topic. For example, the entire selected topic may be the entire text of the selected topic. The selected content may be information trimmed according to the size of the display area displaying the selected content. For example, the selected content may be a selected topic with a character string of characters or less that fits in the selected content display area. The first selected content display data may be data for displaying a portion or all of the selected topic in a scrollable manner. The first selected content display data may be data for displaying a portion or all of the selected topic in a manner such as text animation. The text animation includes, for example, flowing text. The first selected content display data may be text data, still image data, video data, etc. The first selected content display data may include information about the source of the selected topic. The information about the source of the selected topic includes, for example, link information that allows access to a page from which the selected topic is collected.

[0057] The first selected content display data includes, for example, a full text display button through which an instruction to display the full text of the selected topic can be input. The full text display button is an example of a first element. The first selected content display data includes, for example, an access button through which the distributor can input an instruction to access the collection source page of the selected topic. The access button is an example of a first element. The first selected content display data includes, for example, a back button through which the distributor can input an instruction to display a list. The back button is an example of a first element.

[0058] The information content processing unit 112 transmits the generated first selected content display data to the distributor terminal 2 based on a topic selection instruction from the distributor terminal 2. For example, the information content processing unit 112 switches the display of the list and the selected topic on the distributor terminal 2 based on a topic selection instruction from the distributor. For example, the information content processing unit 112 switches the display of the list and the selected topic on the distributor terminal 2 based on an instruction from the distributor to display the list.

[0059] It should be noted that the information content processing unit 112 may switch between displaying a part of the selected topic and displaying the entire selected topic based on an instruction from the distributor terminal 2.

[0060] The information content processing unit 112 transmits content display data for displaying information content to the viewer terminal 3 based on an instruction from the distributor terminal 2. The content display data transmitted to the viewer terminal 3 is also referred to as second information content data. The information content processing unit 112 transmits the second information content data to the viewer terminal 3 based on a user operation of the distributor terminal 2. The information content processing unit 112 may transmit data in which information content is added to video content to the viewer terminal 3. The information content processing unit 112 may output data in which information content is synthesized or superimposed on video content data, or may output the video content data and the information content data separately.

[0061] The information content processing unit 112 generates second content menu display data based on receiving an information content display instruction from the distributor terminal 2 via the network. The second content menu display data is an example of second information content data. The second content menu display data is data for displaying a content menu indicating the genre of the information content. The second content menu display data includes data for displaying the same content menu as the first content menu display data. The second content menu display data does not include, for example, elements that can be operated by the viewer.

[0062] The information content processing unit 112 transmits the second content menu display data to the distributor terminal 2 via the network.

[0063] The information content processing unit 112 generates second list display data including a list of information contents based on receiving a genre selection instruction from the distributor terminal 2 via the network. The second list display data is an example of second information content data. The second list display data is data for displaying a list of topics. The list represents, for example, a list image including topics selectable by the viewer. The second list display data includes data for displaying a second element. The second element is an element through which a viewer can input an instruction. The second element represents, for example, an operator through which a user (viewer) of the viewer terminal 3 can input an instruction. The data for displaying the second element is, for example, data for displaying a button. The data for displaying the second element is not limited to a button, but may be data for displaying an element, such as a predetermined area, through which a viewer can input an instruction. The data for displaying the second element may include, for example, a signal indicating an instruction to display the second element. The second list display data includes, for example, an object display button through which a viewer can input an object display instruction for a topic included in the list. The object display instruction is an instruction to display an object for a topic selected by the viewer. The topic selected by the viewer is a target topic for displaying an object. A target topic for displaying an object is also called an object display target topic. The object display instruction may include topic identification information that can identify the object display target topic and viewer identification information that can identify the viewer who selected the object display target topic. The object display target topic is an example of object display target content. The object display button may be, for example, an area where topics included in the list are displayed. The object display button is an example of a second element.

[0064] An object, for example, is an object that indicates an action from a viewer toward a broadcaster. An action is an example of communication from a viewer toward a broadcaster. For example, a viewer takes an action toward a broadcaster. A broadcaster receives an action from a viewer. Viewers and broadcasters can communicate through actions. A large amount of actions indicates active communication. Active communication indicates excitement for the video broadcast. Viewers and broadcasters can liven up the video broadcast by actively communicating with each other. An action, for example, includes a viewer's expression of intent. An expression of intent includes an expression of intent regarding a specific topic. An expression of intent includes an expression of intent indicating interest in a topic, a desire to share the topic, a desire to talk about the topic, etc. An object, for example, is an object that visualizes an "interesting action." An "interesting action," for example, is an action that indicates the viewer's interest. An "interesting action" is a means of communication for viewers. An "interesting action" indicates an expression of intent to take an action toward a topic, or a reaction to a topic.

[0065] The object may be an object showing a viewer's reaction to the broadcaster. The reaction may be, for example, an answer to a question from the broadcaster, a questionnaire, or the like. The action may include an action from a viewer toward other viewers. The reaction may include a reaction from a viewer toward other viewers.

[0066] The object may be a symbol, mark, icon, or the like. The object may be any color, shape, or size. For example, the object may be a star-shaped mark. The object is not limited to the above and may be anything that visually indicates the amount of viewer action, excitement, etc. For example, the object indicates the amount of viewer action or the number of actions. Specifically, the object indicates the number of object display instructions input by the viewer, or the number of times. For example, if a viewer inputs an object display instruction for "topic A," an object is displayed for "topic A." An object may be displayed each time an object display instruction is input by the viewer. For example, if a viewer inputs one object display instruction for "topic A," one object is displayed for "topic A." For example, the more object display instructions the viewer inputs, the more objects may be displayed. Note that the number of objects may be the same as or different from the number of object display instructions.

[0067] Displaying an object is an example of performing an action. Inputting an instruction to display an object is an example of performing an action.

[0068] The object can be an indicator of a topic that a viewer is interested in. For example, a broadcaster can recognize a topic that multiple viewers are interested in based on the object. A broadcaster can share a topic that multiple viewers are interested in based on the object.

[0069] The information content processing unit 112 transmits second list display data including a list of information contents to the viewer terminal 3 via the network. The viewer selects a desired topic from the topics included in the list. The viewer can display an object for the selected topic by operating the object display button. Based on the viewer's operation of the object display button, the viewer terminal 3 outputs an object display instruction to the video distribution device 1 via the network to display an object for the topic for which the object is to be displayed.

[0070] The information content processing unit 112 receives an object display instruction from the viewer terminal 3 via the network. The information content processing unit 112 may store information related to the object in the storage unit 13. The information related to the object includes, for example, topic identification information, viewer identification information, time information, etc. The time information is, for example, information indicating the time when the object display instruction was obtained from the viewer terminal 3.

[0071] Upon receiving a topic selection instruction from the distributor terminal 2 via the network, the information content processing unit 112 generates second selected content display data for displaying at least a portion of the selected topic. The second selected content display data is an example of second information content data. The second selected content display data includes data for displaying the same selected topic as the first selected content. The second selected content display data may include information regarding the source of the selected topic.

[0072] The second selected content display data includes, for example, a full text display button that allows a viewer to input an instruction to display the full text of the selected topic. The full text display button is an example of a second element. The second selected content display data includes, for example, an access button that allows a viewer to input an instruction to access a collection source page of the selected topic. The access button is an example of a second element.

[0073] The information content processing unit 112 transmits the generated second selected content display data to the viewer terminal 3 based on a topic selection instruction from the distributor terminal 2. For example, the information content processing unit 112 switches the display of the list and the selected topic on the viewer terminal 3 based on a topic selection instruction from the distributor. For example, the information content processing unit 112 switches the display of the list and the selected topic on the viewer terminal 3 based on an instruction from the distributor to display the list.

[0074] The information content processing unit 112 performs object processing. The information content processing unit 112 generates object display data based on receiving an object display instruction from the viewer terminal 3 via the network. The object display data is data for displaying an object for a topic to which the object is to be displayed. The information content processing unit 112 may generate object display data every time an object display instruction is received.

[0075] The information content processing unit 112 outputs object display data based on an object display instruction from a viewer via an object display button. The information content processing unit 112 transmits the object display data to the distributor terminal 2 via the network. The information content processing unit 112 transmits the object display data to the viewer terminal 3 via the network. The information content processing unit 112 may transmit the object display data to another viewer terminal 3 via the network. The other viewer terminal 3 is a viewer terminal of a viewer who is viewing the same video content as the video content that the viewer terminal 3 is viewing.

[0076] The information content processing unit 112 may perform processing to control the display of objects. The information content processing unit 112 may limit the number of objects displayed within a predetermined time. For example, the information content processing unit 112 may limit the number of objects that can be displayed within a predetermined time to a predetermined number. The information content processing unit 112 may limit the number of objects that can be displayed within a predetermined time for each selected topic to a predetermined number. If the information content processing unit 112 receives more than a predetermined number of object display instructions within a predetermined time, it may thin out the objects before displaying them. If the number of object display instructions exceeds a predetermined number, the information content processing unit 112 may change the display mode of the object. The display mode includes at least the shape, color, size, and display position. For example, if the number of object display instructions exceeds five, the information content processing unit 112 may change the shape of the object from a star to a circle. If the number of object display instructions exceeds five, the information content processing unit 112 may change the color of the object from yellow to red. If the number of object display instructions exceeds five, the information content processing unit 112 may change the size of the object from the standard size to a larger size object. The standard size indicates, for example, the size of the object that is displayed when the number of object display instructions is five or less. The information content processing unit 112 may change the display mode of the object based on the order in which the viewer inputs the object display instructions. For example, the information content processing unit 112 may change the color of the object depending on the time the object is displayed. The information content processing unit 112 may change the display mode of the object based on the user rank of the viewer of the viewer terminal 3 that sent the object display instruction.

[0077] (Display example) The image displayed on the distributor terminal 2 will now be described. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of a video distribution image displayed on the distributor terminal 2 according to the embodiment.

[0078] 3 shows a video delivery image Im1 before a display instruction for information content is input by a distributor. The video delivery image Im1 includes at least an area A1 for displaying video content and an information content display button B1.

[0079] Area A1 is an area for displaying, for example, video content created by a distributor. The video content displayed in area A1 may be, for example, video captured by a camera connected to distributor terminal 2. Information content display button B1 is an operator that can input an instruction to display information content.

[0080] The distributor can display the information content in area A1 by selecting the information content display button B1. The distributor can display the information content in the video content display area that displays the video content of the viewer terminal 3 by selecting the information content display button B1.

[0081] The distributor can select whether to display or hide the information content based on the operation by the distributor. The distributor terminal 2 acquires an information content display instruction for displaying the information content based on the operation by the distributor. Based on the acquisition of the information content display instruction, the distributor terminal 2 transmits the information content display instruction to the video distribution device 1.

[0082] The video distribution image Im1 may include an end button for ending the display of the information content. The distributor can hide the display of the information content by selecting the end button. The distributor terminal 2 hides the information content based on the distributor's selection of the end button.

[0083] According to this example, video distribution device 1 can transmit information content to distributor terminal 2 and viewer terminal 3 based on the distributor's operation. The distributor can display the information content on distributor terminal 2 at a desired timing. The distributor can display the information content on viewer terminal 3 at a desired timing. Therefore, the distributor and viewer can share the information content based on the distributor's operation.

[0084] FIG. 4 is a diagram schematically illustrating an example of a content menu image displayed on the distributor terminal 2 according to the embodiment.

[0085] 4 shows a content menu image Im2 displayed on the distributor terminal 2 when a distributor inputs an instruction to display information content. The distributor terminal 2 displays the content menu image Im2 on a display device based on the first content menu display data. The content menu image Im2 includes at least a message area M1, a menu area A2, and a selection complete button B2. The message area M1, the menu area A2, and the selection complete button B2 can be synthesized or superimposed on the video content using known technology.

[0086] The message area M1 is an area for displaying a message. For example, the message is a message that prompts the distributor to select a genre from the content menu. The message area M1 includes a text message such as "Please select."

[0087] The menu area A2 is an area that displays a content menu. The content menu includes an area that indicates at least one genre. The area that indicates a genre may be, for example, a genre selection button that can be operated by the distributor. The distributor selects a desired genre, for example, by touch input or the like. The distributor selects at least one genre. The distributor terminal 2 acquires a genre selection instruction. The distributor terminal 2 may transmit the genre selection instruction to the video distribution device 1 based on the distributor's operation. The area that indicates the genre selected by the distributor may be displayed in a different display mode from areas that indicate other genres not selected by the distributor.

[0088] The selection completion button B2 is, for example, an operator that allows the distributor to input a selection completion instruction. For example, after selecting a desired genre, the distributor selects the selection completion button B2 by touch input or the like. The distributor terminal 2 acquires the selection completion instruction. Based on acquiring the selection completion instruction, the distributor terminal 2 may transmit a genre selection instruction to the video distribution device 1.

[0089] The content menu image Im2 is also displayed on the viewer terminal 3. In this case, the viewer terminal 3 displays the content menu image Im2 on a display device based on the second content menu display data. The content menu image Im2 does not have to include a selection completion button B2 that can be operated by the viewer. If the content menu image Im2 includes the selection completion button B2, the selection completion button B2 may be displayed in a manner that cannot be operated by the viewer. The content menu image Im2 displayed on the viewer terminal 3 does not have to include a genre selection button that can be operated by the viewer. If the content menu image Im2 includes a genre selection button, the genre selection button may be displayed in a manner that cannot be operated by the viewer.

[0090] According to this example, the video distribution device 1 can display a content menu indicating the genre of information content on the distributor terminal 2 and the viewer terminal 3 based on an operation by the distributor. The distributor and the viewer can share the content menu. The distributor can select a desired genre from the content menu. The video distribution device 1 can display information content of the genre selected by the distributor on the distributor terminal 2 and the viewer terminal 3 based on a genre selection instruction from the distributor terminal 2. The distributor can display information content of the genre selected by the distributor on the distributor terminal 2. The distributor can display information content of the genre selected by the distributor on the viewer terminal 3.

[0091] FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of a list display image displayed on the distributor terminal 2 according to the embodiment. 5 shows a list display image Im3 displayed on the distributor terminal 2 when a genre selection command is input by the distributor. The distributor terminal 2 displays the list display image Im3 on a display device based on the first list display data. The list display image Im3 includes at least a list display area A3 and a scroll button display area A4. The list display area A3 and the scroll button display area A4 can be combined with or superimposed on the video content using known technology.

[0092] The list display area A3 is an area for displaying a list of topics in a genre selected by the distributor. The topic list includes a list of topics included in at least one genre. The topic list includes at least one topic.

[0093] The list display area A3 includes a topic box T1. The topic box T1 is an area that displays a portion of a topic. The list display area A3 may include multiple topic boxes. The topic box may be, for example, a topic selection button that can be operated by the broadcaster. The broadcaster selects a desired topic box, for example, by touch input or the like. For example, when selecting topic A, the broadcaster selects topic box T1 by touch input or the like. The broadcaster terminal 2 acquires a topic selection instruction based on the broadcaster's operation. The broadcaster terminal 2 may transmit a topic selection instruction to the video broadcasting device 1 based on the broadcaster's operation. The topic box selected by the broadcaster may be displayed in a different display mode from other topic boxes not selected by the broadcaster.

[0094] The scroll button display area A4 includes a scroll button. The scroll button is, for example, an operator that allows the broadcaster to input instructions to change the topic boxes displayed in the list display area A3. The broadcaster can change the topic boxes displayed in the list display area A3 by operating the scroll button. For example, the broadcaster can move the topic boxes displayed in the list display area A3 up or down based on the operation of the scroll button. Note that the topic boxes displayed in the list display area A3 may also be changed based on a slide operation, a swipe operation, or the like, by the user.

[0095] The list display image Im3 is also displayed on the viewer terminal 3. In this case, the viewer terminal 3 displays the list display image Im3 on a display device based on the second list display data. The list display image Im3 includes a list display area A3 and a scroll button display area A4.

[0096] The list display area A3 includes at least one topic box. The topic box may be, for example, an object display button that can input an object display instruction. The viewer selects the desired topic box, for example, by touch input, etc. For example, when selecting topic A, the viewer selects topic box T1 by touch input, etc. The viewer terminal 3 acquires the object display instruction based on the viewer's operation. The distributor terminal 2 may send the object display instruction to the video distribution device 1 based on the distributor's operation. The list display image Im3 displayed on the viewer terminal 3 does not need to include a topic selection button that can be operated by the viewer. If the list display image Im3 includes a topic selection button, the topic selection button may be displayed in a manner that cannot be operated by the viewer.

[0097] The scroll button display area A4 includes a scroll button. The scroll button is, for example, an operator that allows a viewer to input an instruction to change the topic boxes displayed in the list display area A3. The scroll button may also be a paging button. The paging button is, for example, an operator that allows a viewer to input an instruction to change the topic boxes displayed in the list display area A3 page by page. The broadcaster can change the page of the topic boxes displayed in the list display area A3 by operating the paging button. For example, the broadcaster can move the page of the topic boxes displayed in the list display area A3 left or right based on the operation of the paging button. According to this example, the broadcaster can change the topics displayed in the list display area A3 page by page.

[0098] According to this example, the video distribution device 1 can display a list of topics on the distributor terminal 2 and the viewer terminal 3 based on the distributor's operation. The distributor and the viewer can share the list of topics. The distributor can select a desired topic from the list of topics. The video distribution device 1 can display information content of the topic selected by the distributor on the distributor terminal 2 and the viewer terminal 3 based on a topic selection instruction from the distributor terminal 2. The distributor can display information content of the topic selected by the distributor on the distributor terminal 2. The distributor can display information content of the topic selected by the distributor on the viewer terminal 3. Therefore, the distributor and the viewer can share information content selected by the distributor based on the distributor's operation.

[0099] FIG. 6 is a diagram schematically illustrating an example of a selected content display image displayed on the distributor terminal 2 according to the embodiment. 6 shows a selected content display image Im4 displayed on the distributor terminal 2 when a topic selection instruction is input by the distributor. The distributor terminal 2 displays the selected content display image Im4 on a display device based on the first selected content display data. The selected content display image Im4 includes at least a selected content display area A5, a full text display button B3, and a back button B4. The selected content display area A5, the full text display button B3, and the back button B4 can be synthesized or superimposed on the video content using known technology.

[0100] The selected content display area A5 is an area that displays a topic selected by a distributor. The selected content display area A5 displays at least a portion of the selected topic. The selected content display area A5 may display, for example, the title of the topic. The selected content display area A5 may display a portion of the topic with a length or number of characters that can be displayed in the selected content display area A5. The selected content display area A5 may display a portion or all of the topic in a scrollable manner. The selected content display area A5 may display a portion or all of the topic in a text animation manner.

[0101] The full text display button B3 is a button that can be operated by the distributor. In one example, the full text display button B3 is a button that can be used to input an instruction to display the full text of the selected topic on the display device. The distributor selects the full text display button B3, for example, by touch input or the like. The distributor terminal 2 acquires the full text display instruction based on the distributor's operation. Based on the distributor's operation, the distributor terminal 2 displays the full text of the topic on the display device by combining or superimposing it on the video content. The distributor terminal 2 may display the entire selected topic on the display device in a display area different from the area that displays the selected content. The distributor terminal 2 may display the entire selected topic on the display device in PinP (Picture-in-Picture) format.

[0102] The distributor terminal 2 may transmit a full-text display instruction to the video distribution device 1. Upon receiving the full-text display instruction, the video distribution device 1 may transmit first full-text display data to the distributor terminal 2. The distributor terminal 2 may display the full text of the selected topic on a display device based on the first full-text display data.

[0103] In addition, when a part or the entirety of a selected topic is displayed by being synthesized or superimposed on the video content, the video distribution device 1 may output comments acquired from the viewer terminal 3 to the distributor terminal 2. The distributor terminal 2 may display the comment by synthesizing or superimposing it on a part or the entirety of the selected topic. The video distribution device 1 may output data for displaying the selected topic and data for the comment separately, or may output data in which the comment is synthesized or superimposed on data for displaying the selected topic. According to this example, the distributor can view comments posted by viewers while viewing the entirety of the topic. Therefore, the video distribution device 1 can stimulate communication between viewers and distributors regarding the topic.

[0104] In another example, the full text display button B3 is a button that allows an access instruction to be input to access the collection source page of the selected topic. The distributor selects the full text display button B3, for example, by touch input or the like. The distributor terminal 2 accesses the collection source page of the selected topic based on the link information of the selected topic. The distributor terminal 2 may display the collection source page of the selected topic in an area different from the area where the video content is displayed. The distributor terminal 2 may display the collection source page of the selected topic by combining or superimposing it on the video content. The distributor terminal 2 may also send an access instruction to the video distribution device 1.

[0105] The back button B4 is a button that allows the distributor to input an instruction to display the list. The instruction to display the list may be a switch instruction to switch the display from the selected content display image to the list display image. The distributor, for example, selects the back button B4 by touch input or the like. The distributor terminal 2 displays the list display image based on the distributor's operation. The distributor terminal 2 may also send a switch instruction to the video distribution device 1 based on the distributor's operation.

[0106] The selected content display image Im4 is also displayed on the viewer terminal 3. In this case, the viewer terminal 3 displays the selected content display image Im4 on a display device based on the second selected content display data. The selected content display image Im4 includes a selected content display area A5 and a full text display button B3. The selected content display image Im4 does not have to include a back button B4 that can be operated by the viewer. If the selected content display image Im4 includes the back button B4, the back button B4 may be displayed in a manner that cannot be operated by the viewer.

[0107] The selected content display area A5 displays at least a part of the topic selected by the distributor.

[0108] The full text display button B3 is a button that can be operated by the viewer. In one example, the full text display button B3 is a button that can be used to input an instruction to display the full text of the selected topic on the display device. The viewer selects the full text display button B3, for example, by touch input or the like. The viewer terminal 3 acquires the full text display instruction based on the viewer's operation. Based on the viewer's operation, the viewer terminal 3 displays the full text of the topic on the display device by combining or superimposing it on the video content. The viewer terminal 3 may display the entire selected topic on the display device in a display area different from the area that displays the selected content. The viewer terminal 3 may display the entire selected topic on the display device in PinP format.

[0109] The viewer terminal 3 may transmit a full-text display instruction to the video distribution device 1. Based on the acquisition of the full-text display instruction, the video distribution device 1 may transmit second full-text display data to the distributor terminal 2. Based on the second full-text display data, the viewer terminal 3 may display the full text of the selected topic on the display device.

[0110] In addition, when a part or the entirety of a selected topic is displayed by being synthesized or superimposed on the video content, the video distribution device 1 may output comments acquired from the viewer terminal 3 to the viewer terminal 3. The viewer terminal 3 may display the comment by synthesizing or superimposing it on a part or the entirety of the topic. The video distribution device 1 may output data for displaying the selected topic and data for the comment separately, or may output data in which the comment is synthesized or superimposed on data for displaying the selected topic. According to this example, viewers can view comments posted by other viewers while viewing the entirety of the topic. Therefore, the video distribution device 1 can stimulate communication between viewers and distributors regarding the topic.

[0111] In another example, the full text display button B3 is a button that can input an access instruction to access the collection source page of the selected topic. The viewer selects the full text display button B3, for example, by touch input or the like. The viewer terminal 3 accesses the collection source page of the selected topic based on the link information of the selected topic. The viewer terminal 3 may display the collection source page of the selected topic in an area different from the area in which the video content is displayed. The viewer terminal 3 may display the collection source page of the selected topic by combining or superimposing it on the video content. The viewer terminal 3 may also send an access instruction to the video distribution device 1.

[0112] According to this example, the video distribution device 1 can display the selected topic on the distributor terminal 2 and the viewer terminal 3 based on the distributor's operation. The distributor and the viewer can share the selected topic. Furthermore, the video distribution device 1 can switch between displaying the selected topic and displaying a list based on the distributor's operation. The distributor and the viewer can share the selected topic or the list based on the distributor's operation.

[0113] The distributor terminal 2 can display the full text of the selected topic or access the collection source page of the selected topic based on the distributor's operation. The viewer terminal 3 can display the full text of the selected topic or access the collection source page of the selected topic based on the viewer's operation. The distributor and viewer can display the full text of the selected topic or access the collection source page of the selected topic based on their respective selections.

[0114] FIG. 7 is a diagram schematically illustrating another example of a list display image displayed on the distributor terminal 2 according to the embodiment. 7 shows a list display image Im5 when an object display instruction is input by a viewer. Similar to the list display image Im3, the list display image Im5 includes at least a list display area and a scroll button display area. The list display area and the scroll button display area can be synthesized or superimposed on the video content using known technology.

[0115] The list display area includes an object Ob1. An object may be displayed for each topic box included in the list display area. In the example of FIG. 7, area A6 includes multiple objects. Area A6 is an area that displays objects assigned by viewers to topic box T1. Area A6 indicates that a viewer has input an object display instruction for topic box T1. Area A6 indicates, for example, the number of "interesting actions" input for the topic displayed in topic box T1. The number of objects displayed in area A6 corresponds to the number of times an object display instruction has been input by a viewer. The number of objects displayed in area A6 may be the same as the number of times an object display instruction has been input by a viewer, or may be a number that relatively represents the number of times an object display instruction has been input. In the example of FIG. 7, the number of objects for topic box T1 is greater than the number of objects for topic box T2. In FIG. 7, the topic displayed in topic box T1 is indicated as having received more "interesting actions" from viewers than the topic displayed in topic box T2. The list display image Im5 is also displayed on the viewer terminal 3 in the same manner.

[0116] According to this example, the video distribution device 1 displays an object in association with the object target topic based on receiving an object display instruction from the viewer terminal 3. The video distribution device 1 can visualize actions from the viewer. The broadcaster can recognize topics in which the viewer is interested because the object is displayed in association with the object target topic. The broadcaster can select a topic as a selected topic based on the viewer's action. The viewer can inform the broadcaster of topics in which the viewer is interested. Therefore, the video distribution device 1 can stimulate communication between the broadcaster and the viewer based on information content. In this way, the video distribution device 1 can support communication between the broadcaster and the viewer during the broadcast of video content. (Example of operation) The operation of the video distribution system S will be described. The processing procedure described below is merely an example, and each process may be changed as much as possible. In the processing procedure, each process may be omitted or replaced depending on the embodiment, and new processes may also be added.

[0117] In the following description, which focuses on video distribution device 1, video distribution device 1 may be read as control unit 11. Similarly, in the following description, which focuses on distributor terminal 2, distributor terminal 2 may be read as the control unit or processing circuit of distributor terminal 2. In the following description, which focuses on viewer terminal 3, viewer terminal 3 may be read as the control unit or processing circuit of viewer terminal 3. In the following explanation, it is assumed that video content is distributed to a viewer terminal 3, and information content is displayed while the video content is being distributed. Note that the video content may also be distributed to a distributor terminal 2. Note that multiple viewer terminals 3 refer to viewer terminals 3 that are viewing the same video content. In the following explanation, an example will be given in which live broadcast content is distributed by a distributor (live distribution).

[0118] The distributor terminal 2 transmits video content to the video distribution device 1. The control unit 11 of the video distribution device 1 acquires video content from the distributor terminal 2 via the network. This process may be performed by the video content acquisition unit 110 realized by the control unit 11. The control unit 11 stores the video content in the storage unit 13.

[0119] The control unit 11 distributes the video content to the viewer terminal 3 of the viewer via the network (step S11). Step S11 may be processing by the video content distribution unit 111 realized by the control unit 11. In step S11, for example, the control unit 11 receives a video content distribution request from the viewer terminal 3. The control unit 11 acquires video content data stored in the storage unit 13 based on content identification information included in the video content distribution request. The control unit 11 distributes the video content data to the viewer terminal 3 as the distribution destination.

[0120] The viewer terminal 3 receives the video content data from the video distribution device 1 via the network. The viewer terminal 3 displays the video content (step S21). In step S21, for example, the viewer terminal 3 displays the video content on a display device based on the video content data.

[0121] A distributor of the distributor terminal 2 inputs an information content display instruction to display information content while distributing video content. The distributor terminal 2 outputs the information content display instruction to the video distribution device 1 via the network (step S1). In step S1, for example, the distributor terminal 2 acquires the information content display instruction based on the distributor's operation of an information content display button or the like. The distributor terminal 2 outputs the information content display instruction to the video distribution device 1 based on the distributor's operation.

[0122] The control unit 11 of the video distribution device 1 receives an information content display instruction from the distributor terminal 2 via the network. Based on the received information content display instruction, the control unit 11 generates content menu display data. This processing may be performed by the information content processing unit 112 realized by the control unit 11. Based on the information content data, the control unit 11 generates first content menu display data and second content menu display data.

[0123] The control unit 11 outputs content menu display data (step S12). Step S12 may be a process performed by the information content processing unit 112 implemented by the control unit 11. In step S12, for example, the control unit 11 outputs the first content menu display data to the distributor terminal 2 via the network. The control unit 11 outputs the second content menu display data to the viewer terminal 3 via the network.

[0124] The viewer terminal 3 receives the second content menu display data via the network from the video distribution device 1. The viewer terminal 3 displays the content menu on the display device based on the second content menu display data (step S22).

[0125] The distributor terminal 2 receives, via the network, the first content menu display data from the moving image distribution device 1. The distributor terminal 2 displays the content menu on the display device based on the first content menu display data (step S2).

[0126] The distributor terminal 2 acquires a genre selection instruction based on input from the distributor using a genre selection button or the like. The distributor terminal 2 outputs the genre selection instruction to the video distribution device 1 via the network (step S3). In step S3, for example, the distributor terminal 2 may output genre identification information capable of identifying the genre selected by the distributor to the video distribution device 1. The distributor terminal 2 may also output distributor identification information capable of identifying the distributor to the video distribution device 1.

[0127] The control unit 11 of the video distribution device 1 receives a genre selection instruction from the distributor terminal 2 via the network. Based on the received genre selection instruction, the control unit 11 generates list display data. This processing may be performed by the information content processing unit 112 implemented by the control unit 11. For example, the control unit 11 generates first list display data and second list display data based on the information content data. Note that the control unit 11 may also create list display data in which the information contents are arranged in a predetermined order.

[0128] The control unit 11 outputs the list display data (step S13). Step S13 may be a process performed by the information content processing unit 112 implemented by the control unit 11. In step S13, for example, the control unit 11 outputs the first list display data to the distributor terminal 2 via the network. The control unit 11 outputs the second list display data to the viewer terminal 3 via the network.

[0129] Viewer terminal 3 receives the second list display data via the network from moving image distribution device 1. Viewer terminal 3 displays the list on the display device based on the second list display data (step S23).

[0130] The distributor terminal 2 receives, via the network, the first list display data from the moving image distribution device 1. The distributor terminal 2 displays the list on the display device based on the first list display data (step S4).

[0131] The control unit 11 of the video distribution device 1 performs object processing, which will be described later (step S14). Step S14 may be processing by the information content processing unit 112 realized by the control unit 11.

[0132] The distributor terminal 2 acquires a topic selection instruction based on input from the distributor using a topic selection button or the like. The distributor terminal 2 outputs the topic selection instruction to the video distribution device 1 via the network (step S5). In step S5, for example, the distributor terminal 2 may output topic identification information that can identify the selected topic selected by the distributor to the video distribution device 1. The distributor terminal 2 may also output distributor identification information that can identify the distributor who selected the selected topic to the video distribution device 1.

[0133] The control unit 11 of the video distribution device 1 receives a topic selection instruction from the distributor terminal 2 via the network. Based on the received topic selection instruction, the control unit 11 generates selected content display data. This processing may be performed by the information content processing unit 112 realized by the control unit 11. The control unit 11 generates, for example, first selected content display data and second selected content display data.

[0134] The control unit 11 outputs the selected content display data (step S15). Step S15 may be a process performed by the information content processing unit 112 implemented by the control unit 11. In step S15, for example, the control unit 11 outputs the first selected content display data to the distributor terminal 2 via the network. The control unit 11 outputs the second selected content display data to the viewer terminal 3 via the network.

[0135] The viewer terminal 3 receives the second selected content display data via the network from the video distribution device 1. The viewer terminal 3 displays the selected content on the display device based on the second selected content display data (step S24).

[0136] The distributor terminal 2 receives, via the network, the first selected content display data from the moving image distribution device 1. The distributor terminal 2 displays the selected content on the display device based on the first selected content display data (step S6).

[0137] The broadcaster terminal 2 determines whether a switching instruction has been issued by the broadcaster (step S7). In step S7, for example, the broadcaster terminal 2 determines whether a switching instruction has been issued based on whether a switching instruction has been acquired by the broadcaster through input of a back button or the like. If the broadcaster terminal 2 has acquired a switching instruction, it determines that a switching instruction has been issued by the broadcaster. If the broadcaster terminal 2 has not acquired a switching instruction, it determines that a switching instruction has not been issued by the broadcaster. If a switching instruction has not been issued (step S7: NO), the process performed by the broadcaster terminal 2 repeats step S7. If a switching instruction has been issued (step S7: YES), the process performed by the broadcaster terminal 2 transitions from step S7 to step S8.

[0138] The distributor terminal 2 outputs a switching instruction to the moving image distribution device 1 via the network (step S8).

[0139] The control unit 11 of the video distribution device 1 receives a switching instruction from the distributor terminal 2 via the network. Based on the received switching instruction, the control unit 11 generates list display data. This processing may be performed by the information content processing unit 112 implemented by the control unit 11. The control unit 11 generates, for example, first list display data and second list display data. For example, the control unit 11 may generate the list display data so that topic boxes corresponding to topics previously selected by the distributor are displayed in a different display mode from other topic boxes corresponding to topics not selected by the distributor. The display mode may include text color, size, font, background color, brightness or luminance, background pattern, frame color, blinking display, etc.

[0140] The control unit 11 outputs the list display data (step S16). Step S16 may be a process performed by the information content processing unit 112 implemented by the control unit 11. In step S16, for example, the control unit 11 outputs the first list display data to the distributor terminal 2 via the network. The control unit 11 outputs the second list display data to the viewer terminal 3 via the network.

[0141] Viewer terminal 3 receives the second list display data via the network from moving image distribution device 1. Viewer terminal 3 displays the list on the display device based on the second list display data (step S25).

[0142] The distributor terminal 2 receives, via the network, the first list display data from the moving image distribution device 1. The distributor terminal 2 displays the list on the display device based on the first list display data (step S9).

[0143] The distributor terminal 2 determines whether an end instruction has been issued by the distributor (step S10). In step S10, for example, the distributor terminal 2 determines whether an end instruction has been issued based on whether an end instruction has been received by the distributor through input of an end button or the like. If the distributor terminal 2 receives an end instruction, it determines that an end instruction has been issued by the distributor. If the distributor terminal 2 does not receive an end instruction, it determines that an end instruction has not been issued by the distributor. If an end instruction has not been issued (step S10: NO), the process performed by the distributor terminal 2 repeats step S10. If an end instruction has been issued (step S10: YES), the distributor terminal 2 hides the information content. For example, the distributor can input an end instruction whether a list is displayed or selected content is displayed. The distributor terminal 2 hides the information content based on the fact that an end instruction has been received. The distributor terminal 2 outputs an end instruction to the video distribution device 1 via the network.

[0144] Control unit 11 of video distribution device 1 receives the end instruction from distributor terminal 2 via the network. Based on the reception of the end instruction, control unit 11 outputs a hide instruction to hide the information content to viewer terminal 3 via the network (step S17).

[0145] Viewer terminal 3 receives the non-display instruction via the network from moving image distribution device 1. Viewer terminal 3 hides the information content based on the non-display instruction.

[0146] According to this example, the video distribution system S can display information content on the distributor terminal 2 and the viewer terminal 3 based on instructions received from the distributor terminal 2. Therefore, the video distribution system S can provide the distributor with topics to share with the viewer. This allows the video distribution system S to support communication between the distributor and the viewer. Furthermore, the video distribution system S can display a selected topic selected by the distributor on the viewer terminal 3. Therefore, the video distribution system S can support communication between the distributor and the viewer based on the topic selected by the distributor.

[0147] 9 is a sequence diagram illustrating an example of the procedure of information processing related to object display by the video distribution system S according to the embodiment. The information processing shown in FIG. 9 is the processing of step S14 in the sequence diagram shown in FIG.

[0148] In the following process, it is assumed that a viewer using viewer terminal 3 is viewing video content distributed by a distributor using distributor terminal 2. It is assumed that the viewer is viewing information content that contains the same content as the information content displayed on distributor terminal 2.

[0149] The viewer terminal 3 displays a list based on the second list display data generated by the video distribution device 1 on a display device. The viewer performs an action on multiple topics included in the list. The viewer selects a topic for object display from the multiple topics included in the list.

[0150] The viewer terminal 3 acquires an object display instruction based on an input by the viewer, such as an object display button, for a topic for which an object is to be displayed. The viewer terminal 3 outputs the object display instruction to the video distribution device 1 via the network (step S121). In step S121, for example, the viewer terminal 3 may output topic identification information capable of identifying the topic for which an object is to be displayed selected by the viewer to the video distribution device 1. The distributor terminal 2 may output viewer identification information capable of identifying the viewer who selected the topic for which an object is to be displayed to the video distribution device 1.

[0151] The control unit 11 of the video distribution device 1 receives an object display instruction from the viewer terminal 3 via the network. Based on the received object display instruction, the control unit 11 generates object display data. This processing may be performed by the information content processing unit 112 realized by the control unit 11. The control unit 11 generates, for example, first object display data and second object display data. The first object display data and the second object display data may be the same data or different data.

[0152] The control unit 11 outputs the object display data (step S111). Step S111 may be a process performed by the information content processing unit 112 realized by the control unit 11. In step S111, for example, the control unit 11 outputs the first object display data to the distributor terminal 2 via the network. The control unit 11 outputs the second object display data to the viewer terminal 3 via the network.

[0153] The distributor terminal 2 receives the first object display data from the video distribution device 1 via the network. The distributor terminal 2 displays the objects on the display device based on the first object display data (step S101). For example, the distributor terminal 2 displays the objects on the display device by combining or superimposing them into a list.

[0154] The distributor terminal 2 determines whether a predetermined time has passed since the object was displayed (step S102). In step S102, for example, the distributor terminal 2 may determine whether a predetermined time has passed since the first object display data was received from the video distribution device 1.

[0155] If a predetermined time has passed since the broadcaster terminal 2 received the object display data, the broadcaster terminal 2 determines that the predetermined time has passed since the object was displayed. If a predetermined time has not passed since the broadcaster terminal 2 received the object display data, the broadcaster terminal 2 determines that the predetermined time has not passed since the object was displayed. If a predetermined time has not passed since the object was displayed (step S102: NO), the broadcaster terminal 2 repeats step S1102. If a predetermined time has passed since the object was displayed (step S102: YES), the broadcaster terminal 2 transitions from step S102 to step S103.

[0156] The broadcaster terminal 2 hides the object when a predetermined time has elapsed since the object was displayed (step S103). In the broadcaster terminal 2, the object is hidden when a predetermined time has elapsed. The broadcaster terminal 2 may hide the object based on an object hide instruction output by the video distribution device 1. For example, the video distribution device 1 may output an object hide instruction to the broadcaster terminal 2 when a predetermined time has elapsed since receiving an object display instruction from the viewer terminal 3. The broadcaster terminal 2 may change the display mode of the object based on the time order in which the viewer inputs the object display instructions. The broadcaster terminal 2 may change the color of the object depending on the time the object is displayed.

[0157] The viewer terminal 3 receives the second object display data from the video distribution device 1 via the network. The viewer terminal 3 displays the objects on the display device based on the second object display data (step S122). The viewer terminal 3 displays the objects on the display device, for example, by combining or superimposing the objects into a list.

[0158] The viewer terminal 3 determines whether a predetermined time has elapsed since the object was displayed (step S123). In step S123, for example, the viewer terminal 3 may determine whether a predetermined time has elapsed since the second object display data was received from the video distribution device 1.

[0159] If a predetermined time has passed since the viewer terminal 3 received the object display data, the viewer terminal 3 determines that the predetermined time has passed since the object was displayed. If a predetermined time has not passed since the viewer terminal 3 received the object display data, the viewer terminal 3 determines that the predetermined time has not passed since the object was displayed. If the predetermined time has not passed since the object was displayed (step S123: NO), the process performed by the viewer terminal 3 repeats step S123. If a predetermined time has passed since the object was displayed (step S123: YES), the process performed by the viewer terminal 3 transitions from step S123 to step S124.

[0160] The viewer terminal 3 hides the object when a predetermined time has elapsed since the object was displayed (step S124). The object is hidden in the viewer terminal 3 when the predetermined time has elapsed. The viewer terminal 3 may also hide the object based on an object hide instruction output by the video distribution device 1. For example, the video distribution device 1 may output an object hide instruction to the viewer terminal 3 when a predetermined time has elapsed since receiving an object display instruction from the viewer terminal 3. The video distribution device 1 may also receive an object hide instruction from the broadcaster terminal 2. The broadcaster terminal 2 may output an object hide instruction to the video distribution device 1 when a predetermined time has elapsed since the object was displayed. The video distribution device 1 may also output an object hide instruction to the viewer terminal 3 when receiving an object hide instruction from the broadcaster terminal 2. The viewer terminal 3 may change the display mode of the object based on the time order in which the viewer inputs the object display instructions. The viewer terminal 3 may change the color of the object depending on the time the object is displayed.

[0161] According to this example, the video distribution system S can display an object on the distributor terminal 2 and the viewer terminal 3 based on an instruction received from the viewer terminal 3. By displaying the object, the viewer can inform the distributor of a topic in which they are interested or concerned. Therefore, the video distribution system S can enable the distributor to visually recognize the topic in which the viewer is interested or concerned. This allows the video distribution system S to support communication between the distributor and the viewer. Furthermore, the distributor can select a topic while communicating with the viewer based on the object. For example, the distributor can react to the viewer's action by selecting a topic in which the object is displayed. Therefore, the video distribution system S can stimulate communication between the distributor and the viewer based on the object.

[0162] The viewer terminal 3 may be configured to allow an object display instruction to be input multiple times for the same topic. For example, the video distribution device 1 may output data for displaying an object display button to the viewer terminal 3 in a manner that allows an object display instruction to be input multiple times for the same topic. According to this example, the viewer can take an action multiple times for the same topic. By taking multiple actions, the viewer can convey the viewer's interest or level of interest to the distributor. For example, the viewer terminal 3 can output an object display instruction to the video distribution device 1 according to the number of actions taken. The video distribution device 1 can display objects on the distributor terminal 2 according to the number of actions taken. The distributor can recognize the viewer's interest or level of interest based on the number of objects displayed, etc.

[0163] The viewer terminal 3 may limit the number of object display instructions that a viewer can input within a predetermined time period for the same topic. For example, the video distribution device 1 may output data for displaying an object display button to the viewer terminal 3 in a manner that limits the number of objects that can be input within a predetermined time period for the same topic. The video distribution device 1 may output data for displaying an object display button to the viewer terminal 3 in a manner that allows an object display instruction to be input once per predetermined time period for the same topic. According to this example, the number of times a viewer can perform an action for the same topic is limited. Therefore, the video distribution device 1 can prevent the same viewer from repeatedly pressing the object display button for the same topic.

[0164] Note that the viewer terminal 3 may limit the number of object display instructions that can be input within a predetermined time period, not just for the same topic. For example, the video distribution device 1 may output data for displaying an object display button to the viewer terminal 3 in a manner that limits the number of objects that can be input within a predetermined time period for all topics. The video distribution device 1 may output data for displaying an object display button to the viewer terminal 3 in a manner that allows an object display instruction to be input once per predetermined time period for all topics. According to this example, the number of times a viewer can perform an action for any topic is limited. Therefore, the video distribution device 1 can prevent the same viewer from repeatedly pressing the object display button for any topic.

[0165] (effect) As described above, according to this embodiment, a video distribution system that distributes live broadcast content obtained from a distributor terminal used by a distributor to a viewer terminal used by a viewer transmits first content display data for displaying the shared content to the distributor terminal, and transmits second content display data for displaying the shared content to the viewer terminal. As a result, the video distribution system can transmit and display shared content to a distributor terminal and a viewer terminal while distributing video content. The video distribution system can provide topics that can be shared between a distributor and a viewer based on the shared content. By sharing the provided topics, the distributor and the viewer can actively communicate. In this way, the video distribution system can support communication between a distributor and a viewer. The video distribution system also transmits an element to the distributor terminal that allows an instruction to select content from a list to be input, and transmits an element to the viewer terminal that allows an instruction to display an object from the list to be input. As a result, the video distribution system can allow the distributor to share content selected by the distributor with the viewer. The video distribution system can allow the distributor to share an object based on an operation by the viewer. As a result, the video distribution system can accept different instructions from the distributor and the viewer and communicate according to each instruction. As a result, the video distribution system can support communication between the distributor and the viewer.

[0166] According to this embodiment, in a video distribution system, first content display data includes a list of contents and includes data for displaying a first element into which a selection instruction can be input to display at least a portion of the selected content included in the list of contents, and the video distribution system transmits selected content display data for displaying at least a portion of the selected content to a distributor terminal and a viewer terminal based on the selection instruction from the distributor via the first element. This allows the video distribution system to allow the broadcaster to share content selected by the broadcaster with viewers based on the broadcaster's operation.The video distribution system allows the broadcaster and viewers to communicate with each other based on the content selected by the broadcaster.This allows the video distribution system to support communication between the broadcaster and viewers.

[0167] According to this embodiment, in a video distribution system, the second content display data includes a list of contents and includes data for displaying a second element that allows a display instruction to be input to display an object for object display target content included in the list of contents, and the video distribution system transmits object display data for displaying an object for object display target content to a distributor terminal and a viewer terminal based on a display instruction from a viewer via the second element. This allows the video distribution system to share objects for content selected by a viewer based on the viewer's operation. For example, the viewer can convey his or her interest in content to the distributor via the object. The distributor can recognize that the viewer is interested in content in which the object is displayed. The distributor can select content from the list based on the viewer's interest. This allows the video distribution system to stimulate communication between the distributor and the viewer. This allows the video distribution system to support communication between the distributor and the viewer.

[0168] According to this embodiment, the video distribution system switches between displaying a list of content and displaying selected content based on a selection instruction from a distributor. This allows the video distribution system to change the information shared between the distributor and the viewer based on the distributor's operation. The video distribution system allows the distributor to share information content between the distributor and the viewer at the distributor's initiative. This allows the video distribution system to support distributor-initiated communication between the distributor and the viewer.

[0169] According to this embodiment, the selected content display data includes link information related to the selected content. For example, distributors and viewers can obtain detailed information about the selected content by accessing the page from which the selected content is collected. This allows distributors and viewers to further expand the topic of conversation based on the detailed information. This allows the video distribution system to stimulate communication between distributors and viewers. In this way, the video distribution system can support communication between distributors and viewers.

[0170] According to this embodiment, an object is hidden based on the lapse of a predetermined time. Therefore, the video distribution system can sequentially update the display of the object and display the actions of the viewer in real time. For example, the viewer can issue a display instruction for the object at any time without erasing the object. This allows the video distribution system to stimulate communication between the broadcaster and the viewer. In this way, the video distribution system can support communication between the broadcaster and the viewer. Furthermore, by sequentially erasing the objects, the video distribution system can limit the number of objects to be displayed. Therefore, the video distribution system can reduce the amount of processing required for object display.

[0171] According to this embodiment, the video distribution system limits the number of display instructions that a viewer can input within a given time period. This allows the video distribution system to prevent a viewer from repeatedly inputting display instructions for an object. As a result, the video distribution system can reduce the amount of processing required for object display.

[0172] According to this embodiment, the video distribution system limits the number of objects displayed within a given time period. This prevents a large number of objects from being displayed in close proximity, making the objects easier to see. Furthermore, the video distribution system can reduce the amount of processing required for object display.

[0173] According to this embodiment, in the video distribution system, the list of content is a list in which the content is arranged in a predetermined order. For example, the video distribution system can display the list based on access rankings. Therefore, the video distribution system can provide topics that are likely to interest or concern the distributor or viewer. As a result, the video distribution system can stimulate communication between the distributor and the viewer by sharing topics that are likely to interest or concern the distributor. In this way, the video distribution system can support communication between the distributor and the viewer.

[0174] (Other embodiments) In the above embodiment, the video distribution device 1 distributes live broadcast content to the viewer terminal 3. However, the video distribution device 1 may distribute time-shifted video content to the viewer terminal 3. In this case, the video distribution device 1 transmits to the viewer terminal 3, in addition to the video content data, data for displaying information content displayed for the live broadcast content corresponding to the time-shifted video content. For example, the video distribution device 1 may transmit to the viewer terminal 3 second list display data with the second element included in the second list display data in an inactive state. Viewers cannot perform actions on the list display image. Viewers cannot input object display instructions. For example, the video distribution device 1 may transmit to the viewer terminal 3 second selected content display data with the second element included in the second selected content display data in an active state. Viewers may perform operations on the selected content image. Viewers can select the full text display button to input a full text display instruction. Viewers can select the full text display button to input an access instruction.

[0175] According to this example, video distribution device 1 can display information content even in time-shift distribution, allowing information to be shared between the distributor and the viewer. Video distribution device 1 can also accept operations on selected content by the viewer in time-shift distribution.

[0176] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment.

[0177] Each of the one or more circuits constituting the processing circuit performs one or more of the multiple processes. When the processing circuit is composed of a single circuit, the single circuit performs all of the multiple processes. When the processing circuit is composed of multiple circuits, each of the multiple circuits performs a part of the multiple processes. The part of the multiple processes may be one of the multiple processes, or two or more of the multiple processes. When the processing circuit is composed of multiple circuits, the multiple circuits may be included in a single device or may be distributed across multiple devices.

[0178] Any part or all of the functional units described in this specification may be realized by a program. The program mentioned in this specification may be distributed by being non-temporarily recorded on a computer-readable recording medium, or may be distributed via a communication line (including wireless communication) such as the Internet, or may be distributed in a state where it is installed on any terminal.

[0179] Based on the above description, a person skilled in the art may be able to conceive additional effects and various modifications of the present invention, but the aspects of the present invention are not limited to the individual embodiments described above. Various additions, modifications, and partial deletions are possible within the scope of the conceptual idea and spirit of the present invention, which is derived from the content defined in the claims and their equivalents.

[0180] For example, what is described in this specification as a single device (or component, the same applies hereinafter) (including what is depicted as a single device in the drawings) may be realized by multiple devices. Conversely, what is described in this specification as multiple devices (including what is depicted as multiple devices in the drawings) may be realized by a single device. Alternatively, some or all of the means or functions included in a certain device (e.g., a server) may be included in another device (e.g., a user terminal). Furthermore, a "system" may consist of a single device, or may consist of two or more devices (e.g., a server and a user terminal, or multiple user terminals).

[0181] Furthermore, not all of the features described in this specification are essential requirements. In particular, features described in this specification but not included in the claims can be considered optional additional features.

[0182] It should be noted that the applicant is merely aware of the inventions disclosed in the documents listed in the "Prior Art Documents" section of this specification, and the present invention does not necessarily aim to solve the problems of the disclosed inventions. The problem that the present invention aims to solve should be determined by taking into consideration the entire specification. For example, if this specification states that a specific configuration achieves a certain effect, it can also be said that the present invention solves a problem that is the reverse of that effect. However, it is not necessarily intended that such a specific configuration be an essential requirement.

[0183] (Addendum) The above embodiment may be expressed as follows: (1) A video distribution system that distributes live broadcast content acquired from a distributor terminal used by a distributor to a viewer terminal used by a viewer, transmitting first content display data for displaying the shared content to the distributor terminal; an information content processing unit that transmits second content display data for displaying the shared content to the viewer terminal; Video distribution system. (2) The shared content includes a list of content, and the first content display data includes data for displaying a first element through which a selection instruction can be input to display at least a part of selected content included in the list of content; the information content processing unit transmits selected content display data for displaying at least a part of the selected content to the distributor terminal and the viewer terminal based on the selection instruction from the distributor via the first element; (1) A video distribution system. (3) The shared content includes a list of content, and the second content display data includes data for displaying a second element for inputting a display instruction for displaying an object for object display target content included in the list of content, the information content processing unit transmits, to the distributor terminal and the viewer terminal, object display data for displaying an object for the object display target content, based on the display instruction from the viewer via the second element; (1) A video distribution system. (4) The information content processing unit switches between displaying the list of contents and displaying the selected content based on the selection instruction from the distributor. (2) A video distribution system according to the present invention. (5) The selected content display data includes link information related to the selected content. (2) A video distribution system according to the present invention. (6) The object is hidden based on the lapse of a predetermined time. (3) A video distribution system according to the present invention. (7) The information content processing unit limits the number of display instructions that can be input by the viewer within a predetermined time. (1) A video distribution system. (8) The information content processing unit limits the number of the objects displayed within a predetermined time. (3) A video distribution system according to the present invention. (9) The list of contents is a list in which the contents are arranged in a predetermined order. A video distribution system according to (2) or (3). (10) A video distribution device that distributes live broadcast content acquired from a distributor terminal used by a distributor to a viewer terminal used by a viewer, transmitting first content display data for displaying the shared content to the distributor terminal; an information content processing unit that transmits second content display data for displaying the shared content to the viewer terminal; Video distribution device. (11) A video distribution method for distributing live broadcast content acquired from a distributor terminal used by a distributor to a viewer terminal used by a viewer, comprising: transmitting first content display data for displaying the shared content to the distributor terminal; an information content processing step of transmitting second content display data for displaying the shared content to the viewer terminal; Video distribution methods. (12) A video distribution program that distributes live broadcast content acquired from a distributor terminal used by a distributor to a viewer terminal used by a viewer, Computer, transmitting first content display data for displaying the shared content to the distributor terminal; functioning as an information content processing means for transmitting second content display data for displaying the shared content to the viewer terminal; Video streaming program. [Explanation of symbols]

[0184] 1...video distribution device, 2...distributor terminal, 3...viewer terminal, 11...control unit, 12...communication unit, 13...memory unit, 14...timing unit, 110...video content acquisition unit, 111...video content distribution unit, 112...information content processing unit, A1...area, A2...menu area, A3...list display area, A4...scroll button display area, A5...selected content display area, A6...area, B1...information content display button, B2...selection complete button, B3...full text display button, B4...back button, Im1...video distribution image, Im2...content menu image, Im3...list display image, Im4...selected content display image, Im5...list display image, M1...message area, Ob1...object, S...video distribution system, T1~T2...topic box.

Claims

1. A video distribution system that distributes live broadcast content acquired from a distributor terminal used by a distributor to a viewer terminal used by a viewer, transmitting first content display data for displaying the shared content to the distributor terminal; an information content processing unit that transmits second content display data for displaying the shared content to the viewer terminal; Video distribution system.

2. the shared content includes a list of content, and the first content display data includes data for displaying a first element through which a selection instruction can be input to display at least a part of selected content included in the list of content; the information content processing unit transmits selected content display data for displaying at least a part of the selected content to the distributor terminal and the viewer terminal based on the selection instruction from the distributor via the first element; The video distribution system according to claim 1 .

3. the shared content includes a list of content, and the second content display data includes data for displaying a second element for which a display instruction for displaying an object can be input for object display target content included in the list of content, the information content processing unit transmits, to the distributor terminal and the viewer terminal, object display data for displaying an object for the object display target content, based on the display instruction from the viewer via the second element; The video distribution system according to claim 1 .

4. the information content processing unit switches between displaying the list of contents and displaying the selected content based on the selection instruction from the distributor. The video distribution system according to claim 2 .

5. the selected content display data includes link information related to the selected content; The video distribution system according to claim 2 .

6. The object is hidden based on the passage of a predetermined time. The video distribution system according to claim 3 .

7. the information content processing unit limits the number of display instructions that can be input by the viewer within a predetermined time period. The video distribution system according to claim 1 .

8. the information content processing unit limits the number of the objects to be displayed within a predetermined time period. The video distribution system according to claim 3 .

9. The content list is a list in which the contents are arranged in a predetermined order.

4. The video distribution system according to claim 2 or 3.

10. A video distribution device that distributes live broadcast content acquired from a distributor terminal used by a distributor to a viewer terminal used by a viewer, transmitting first content display data for displaying the shared content to the distributor terminal; an information content processing unit that transmits second content display data for displaying the shared content to the viewer terminal; Video distribution device.

11. A video distribution method for distributing live broadcast content acquired from a distributor terminal used by a distributor to a viewer terminal used by a viewer, comprising: transmitting first content display data for displaying the shared content to the distributor terminal; an information content processing step of transmitting second content display data for displaying the shared content to the viewer terminal; Video distribution methods.

12. A video distribution program that distributes live broadcast content acquired from a distributor terminal used by a distributor to a viewer terminal used by a viewer, Computer, transmitting first content display data for displaying the shared content to the distributor terminal; functioning as an information content processing means for transmitting second content display data for displaying the shared content to the viewer terminal; Video streaming program.

Images