System, method, program, and apparatus for providing content distribution service

Abstract

To mitigate bias in the behavior of content viewing users.SOLUTION: A content distribution server 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention is communicably connected to a user terminal 30 via a communication network 20, and provides a content distribution service for distributing and viewing contents to users via the user terminal 30. The server 10 repeatedly determines a first evaluation of a distribution user regarding evaluation items based on the behavior of a viewing user within a predetermined period and sets an added value for a predetermined parameter associated with the distribution user according to the determination of the first evaluation. Since the server then generates a first effect based on the value of the predetermined parameter, which reflects the multiple added values set repeatedly, the viewing user's behavior is prevented from being concentrated, for example, just before the end of the predetermined period.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a technique for providing a content distribution service. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, various services have been provided for distributing content composed of images and / or audio. In such services, distributor users are sometimes evaluated based on the behavior of the viewing users who view the content. For example, Patent Document 1 below discloses determining viewing users who satisfy predetermined conditions regarding the viewing behavior of videos provided by the distributor user, and evaluating the distributor users based on the number of such viewing users. Such a system can encourage specific viewing behavior by viewing users. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2022-091808 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, in the conventional system described above, the promoted viewing behavior may be biased toward a specific timing. For example, in a time-limited event, when rankings among distribution users are evaluated based on points or the like awarded according to viewing behavior, viewing behavior tends to be concentrated on the last day of the event, just before the rankings are finalized. Such a temporal bias in viewing behavior may hinder the excitement of the event.

[0005] One of the objects of the embodiment of the present invention is to suppress bias in the behavior of users who view content. Other objects of the embodiment of the present invention will become apparent by reading the entire specification. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] A system according to one embodiment of the present invention is a system for providing a content distribution service, comprising one or more computer processors, wherein the one or more computer processors execute the following steps during a first period: repeatedly determining a first rating of the distribution user for one or more rating items based at least on the behavior of each of a plurality of viewing users who view content distributed by the distribution user; setting an additional value for a predetermined parameter associated with the distribution user based on the first rating in response to the determination of the first rating of the distribution user; and generating a first effect for the content distributed by the distribution user based on the value of the predetermined parameter reflecting the multiple additional values ​​that have been repeatedly set.

[0007] A method according to one embodiment of the present invention is executed by one or more computers and is a method for providing a content distribution service, comprising the steps of: repeatedly determining, during a first period, a first rating of the distributor user for one or more rating items based at least on the behavior of each of a plurality of viewing users who view content distributed by the distributor user; setting an additional value for a predetermined parameter associated with the distributor user based on the first rating in response to the determination of the first rating of the distributor user; and generating a first effect on the content distributed by the distributor user based on the value of the predetermined parameter reflecting the multiple additional values ​​that have been repeatedly set.

[0008] A program according to one embodiment of the present invention is a program for providing a content distribution service, which causes one or more computers to execute the following steps: repeatedly determining a first rating of the distribution user for one or more rating items based at least on the behavior of each of a plurality of viewing users who view content distributed by the distribution user during a first period; setting an additional value for a predetermined parameter associated with the distribution user based on the first rating in response to the determination of the first rating of the distribution user; and generating a first effect based on the value of the predetermined parameter reflecting the multiple additional values ​​that have been repeatedly set, for the content distributed by the distribution user.

[0009] An apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention is an apparatus for providing a content distribution service, and comprises: means for repeatedly determining a first rating of a distributor user for one or more rating items based at least on the behavior of each of a plurality of viewing users who view content distributed by the distributor user during a first period; means for setting an additional value for a predetermined parameter associated with the distributor user based on the first rating in response to the determination of the first rating of the distributor user; and means for generating a first effect for the content distributed by the distributor user based on the value of the predetermined parameter reflecting the multiple additional values ​​that have been repeatedly set. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] Various embodiments of the present invention mitigate bias in content viewing behavior by users. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a network including a content distribution server 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating an example of information managed by a user information table 1511. [Figure 3] FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining the rank of broadcast users. [Figure 4] FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating an example of information managed by a distribution management table 1512. [Figure 5] FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating an example of information managed by a distribution user-specific viewing user management table 1513. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating the conditions for each of a plurality of fan levels. [Figure 7] FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating an example of information managed by an event information table 1514. [Figure 8] FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating an example of information managed by an event-specific distributor user management table 1515. [Figure 9] FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating an example of information managed by an event-specific viewing user management table 1516. [Figure 10] FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating an example of information managed by an accumulated buff management table 1517. [Figure 11] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a top screen 50. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of display content in an individual display area 541. [Figure 13] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a distribution preparation screen 60. [Figure 14] FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating a distribution screen 70. [Figure 15] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a viewing screen 80. [Figure 16] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a viewing screen 80 on which a gift selection screen 90 is superimposed. [Figure 17] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a gift selection screen 90. [Figure 18] 10 is a flowchart illustrating a process executed by the server 10 when updating the rank of each user. [Figure 19] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of an update rule for a rank meter value. [Figure 20] 10 is a flowchart illustrating a process executed by the server 10 when granting diamonds to each user. [Figure 21] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a viewing screen 80 when a broadcast user is participating in an event. [Figure 22] FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a knight inauguration screen 300. [Figure 23]10 is a flowchart illustrating a process executed by the server 10 to set a real-time buff. [Figure 24] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating the acquisition and activation of stacked buffs. [Figure 25] 10 is a flowchart executed by the server 10 after the last real-time buff update of each day. [Figure 26] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of an event information screen 200. [Figure 27] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a stacked buff information screen 210. [Figure 28] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a stacked buff detailed information screen 220. [Figure 29] A diagram illustrating the application of both stacked buffs and real-time buffs on the final day of the event period. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0012] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, the same reference numerals may be used to designate the same or similar components.

[0013] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of a network including a content distribution server 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention. As illustrated, the server 10 is communicably connected to a user terminal 30 via a communication network 20 such as the Internet. Although only one user terminal 30 is illustrated in FIG. 1, the server 10 is communicably connected to a plurality of user terminals 30. The server 10 provides a content distribution service for distributing and viewing content to users via the user terminals 30. The content distribution server 10 is an example of a device that implements part or all of the system (or device) of the present invention.

[0014] First, we will explain the hardware configuration of the content distribution server 10. The content distribution server 10 is configured as a general computer, and as shown in Fig. 1, it includes a computer processor 11, a main memory 12, an input / output I / F 13, a communication I / F 14, and a storage (storage device) 15, and these components are electrically connected via a bus or the like (not shown).

[0015] The computer processor 11 is configured as a CPU, a GPU, or the like, and loads various programs stored in a storage 15 or the like into a main memory 12 and executes various instructions included in the programs. The main memory 12 is configured, for example, by a DRAM or the like.

[0016] The input / output I / F 13 includes various input / output devices for exchanging information with an operator, etc. The input / output I / F 13 includes, for example, information input devices such as a keyboard and a pointing device (e.g., a mouse, a touch panel, etc.), a voice input device such as a microphone, and an image input device such as a camera. The input / output I / F 13 also includes an image output device such as a display, and an audio output device such as a speaker.

[0017] The communication I / F 14 is implemented as hardware such as a network adapter, various communication software, or a combination thereof, and is configured to be able to realize wired or wireless communication via the communication network 20 or the like.

[0018] The storage 15 is configured, for example, by a magnetic disk, a flash memory, etc. The storage 15 stores various programs including an operating system, various data, etc. For example, the storage 15 has various tables 151 that store various information for providing a content distribution service. The storage 15 also stores, for example, a server-side program 40 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The program 40 is a program that causes the server 10 to function as all or part of a system for providing a content distribution service. At least a part of the server-side program 40 can be configured to be executed on the user terminal 30 via a terminal-side program 42, which will be described later.

[0019] In this embodiment, the content distribution server 10 may be configured using a plurality of computers each having the above-described hardware configuration. For example, the content distribution server 10 may be configured by one or a plurality of server devices.

[0020] The content distribution server 10 configured in this manner can be configured to function as a web server and an application server, and in this case, executes various processes in response to requests from a terminal-side program 42 installed in the user terminal 30, and transmits screen data (e.g., HTML data) and control data corresponding to the results of the processes to the user terminal 30. The user terminal 30 can output a web page or other screen based on the received data.

[0021] Next, we will explain the hardware configuration of the user terminal 30. The user terminal 30 is configured as a general computer, and as shown in Fig. 1, it includes a computer processor 31, a main memory 32, an input / output I / F 33, a communication I / F 34, and a storage (storage device) 35, and these components are electrically connected via a bus or the like (not shown).

[0022] The computer processor 31 is configured as a CPU, a GPU, or the like, and loads various programs stored in a storage 35 or the like into the main memory 32 and executes various instructions included in the programs. The main memory 32 is configured, for example, by a DRAM or the like.

[0023] The input / output I / F 33 includes various input / output devices for exchanging information with an operator, etc. The input / output I / F 33 includes, for example, information input devices such as a keyboard and a pointing device (e.g., a mouse, a touch panel, etc.), an audio input device such as a microphone, and an image input device such as a camera. The input / output I / F 33 also includes an image output device such as a display, and an audio output device such as a speaker.

[0024] The communication I / F 34 is implemented as hardware such as a network adapter, various communication software, or a combination thereof, and is configured to be able to realize wired or wireless communication via the communication network 20 or the like.

[0025] The storage 35 is configured, for example, by a magnetic disk or a flash memory. The storage 35 stores various programs including an operating system, various data, and the like. The programs stored in the storage 35 can be downloaded and installed from an application market or the like. The storage 35 also stores a terminal-side program 42. The program 42 can be configured as a web browser or other application (e.g., a terminal-side application for a content distribution service), and can be configured to execute at least a part of the server-side program 40, as described above.

[0026] In this embodiment, the user terminal 30 may be configured as a smartphone, a tablet terminal, a personal computer, a wearable device, or the like.

[0027] A user operating a user terminal 30 configured in this manner can use the content distribution service provided by the server 10 by communicating with the content distribution server 10 via a terminal-side program 42 installed in storage 35 or the like.

[0028] Next, we will explain the functions of the content distribution server 10 configured as above. As shown in Fig. 1, the computer processor 11 of the server 10 is configured to function as a management function control unit 111 and a distribution control unit 112 by executing instructions included in a program (for example, at least a part of the server-side program 40) loaded into the main memory 12.

[0029] The management function control unit 111 is configured to execute various processes related to the control of the management functions of the content distribution service. For example, the management function control unit 111 transmits screen data and control data of various screens related to the management functions to the user terminal 30, executes various processes in response to operation input by the user via the screens output on the user terminal 30, and transmits screen data and control data according to the results of the processes to the user terminal 30. The management functions controlled by the management function control unit 111 include, for example, login processing (user authentication), billing control, and user account management.

[0030] The delivery control unit 112 is configured to execute various processes for controlling the delivery of content. For example, the delivery control unit 112 is configured to deliver content provided by a delivery user who delivers the content to multiple viewing users. For example, the delivery control unit 112 presents a viewing screen for viewing the content to each of the multiple viewing users, and transmits, for example, screen data and control data of the viewing screen to each user terminal 30 (hereinafter sometimes referred to as viewing terminal 30) of the multiple viewing users.

[0031] In this embodiment, the distribution control unit 112 is configured to repeatedly determine, over a predetermined period of time, a first rating of the distributor user for one or more rating items based at least on the behavior of each of a plurality of viewing users who view content distributed by the distributor user. The predetermined period is a certain time range, and includes, for example, a day, a week, a month, or a range from a specific date and time to a specific date and time. For example, the distributor user's first rating is repeatedly determined at multiple predetermined points in time included in the predetermined period (for example, points repeated at predetermined time intervals (e.g., 60 minutes, a day, or a week)). The behavior of the viewing users includes various types of behavior, including, but not limited to, the viewing itself, input of input elements (e.g., items, likes, comments, etc.), and charges (e.g., consumption of currency or paid items, etc.). The distributor user's rating includes a rating of the content distributed by the distributor user.

[0032] Furthermore, the distribution control unit 112 is configured to set an additional value for a predetermined parameter associated with the broadcast user based on the first evaluation, in accordance with the determination of the broadcast user's first evaluation. The predetermined parameter can also be said to be a parameter for which the additional value is accumulated.

[0033] Furthermore, the distribution control unit 112 is configured to generate a first effect based on the value of the predetermined parameter that reflects the multiple added values ​​that have been repeatedly set, for the content distributed by the distribution user. For example, the first effect occurs in a subsequent period that follows the predetermined period.

[0034] In this way, the content distribution server 10 in this embodiment repeatedly determines the first evaluation of the distributor user for the evaluation items based on the behavior of the viewing user over a predetermined period of time, sets an additional value for a predetermined parameter associated with the distributor user in accordance with the determination of the first evaluation, and generates a first effect based on the value of the predetermined parameter reflecting the multiple additional values ​​that have been repeatedly set, thereby preventing the behavior of the viewing user from concentrating, for example, just before the end of the predetermined period. In other words, the server 10 prevents bias in the behavior of content viewing users.

[0035] In this embodiment, the content distributed includes various types of digital content. For example, the content may be composed of images (video or still images) and audio, or one of these. Furthermore, the content may be transmitted in real time (live distribution) from a user terminal 30 (hereinafter, sometimes referred to as a distribution terminal 30) of a distribution user who provides the content, or may be provided in advance from the distribution terminal 30 and pre-stored in a storage device such as storage 15. The live distribution of content may involve a certain delay (time lag) depending on the settings of the distribution user or the network conditions. The live distribution of content is performed, for example, by a streaming method using a protocol such as HTTP Live Streaming (HLS). Distribution users of the content include businesses such as broadcast stations.

[0036] Furthermore, the content transmitted from the broadcasting terminal 30 is composed of, for example, video and audio of the broadcasting user input (captured) via a camera and microphone possessed by the broadcasting terminal 30. Furthermore, such content is composed of, for example, video and audio corresponding to a screen output on the broadcasting terminal 30. Furthermore, such content is composed of, for example, video corresponding to a screen output by an application (e.g., a game) running on the broadcasting terminal 30, audio output by the application, and / or audio of the broadcasting user input via a microphone possessed by the broadcasting terminal 30.

[0037] Furthermore, in the present embodiment, the content to be distributed may be such that part of the data constituting the content is transmitted in real time from distribution terminal 30, while part of the data constituting the content is pre-stored in server 10 or viewing terminal 30. For example, audio constituting the content may be transmitted in real time from distribution terminal 30, while images constituting the content may be pre-stored in server 10 or viewing terminal 30, and the content may be generated in server 10 or viewing terminal 30 based on these data.

[0038] Furthermore, for example, in addition to the audio constituting the content, movement data (motion data) for moving an object such as a character may be transmitted in real time from the distribution terminal 30, while images constituting the content may be stored in advance in the server 10 or the viewing terminal 30, and the images may include model data of the object. In this case, the movement data may be generated based on the movement of the distribution user (including changes in facial expressions, etc.) recognized via a camera in the distribution terminal 30, for example. The content generated in the server 10 or the viewing terminal 30 may include an object such as a character that moves based on the model data and movement data.

[0039] In this embodiment, the first rating of the broadcast user includes various types of ratings, for example, absolute ratings or relative ratings. For example, the broadcast control unit 112 can be configured to determine a parameter corresponding to a rating item as the broadcast user's first rating, in which case the added value can be set when the value of that parameter reaches a predetermined value. Also, for example, the broadcast control unit 112 can be configured to determine the broadcast user's ranking among multiple broadcast users for a rating item as the broadcast user's first rating. This configuration makes it possible to generate effects based on the ranking among broadcast users for a rating item.

[0040] In this embodiment, the first effect generated based on the broadcasting user's first rating includes various types of effects. For example, the first effect is configured as an effect that affects the display mode of content broadcast by the broadcasting user. Furthermore, for example, the first effect is configured as an effect that affects a predetermined behavior of each viewing user who views the content. For example, the distribution control unit 112 can be configured to award points to the broadcasting user in accordance with the predetermined behavior of each viewing user, and in this case, the first effect includes an effect that increases the points. This configuration makes it possible to increase points based on the broadcasting user's rating.

[0041] In this embodiment, the evaluation items used in the first evaluation of a broadcast user include various types of items. For example, the evaluation items include items related to the point allocation status. In this case, for example, the ranking of the number of points held may be determined as the broadcast user's first evaluation. This configuration makes it possible to generate effects based on the first evaluation regarding the point allocation status of the broadcast user.

[0042] Furthermore, the distribution control unit 112 can be configured to grant a special status (e.g., a role) to a viewing user in response to a predetermined action by the viewing user (including paying a fee, consuming items such as free or paid coins, establishing a special relationship with the broadcasting user, or paying a monthly fee, etc.), in which case the evaluation items include items related to the status of granting the special status. The special status is managed, for example, in association with a combination of the broadcasting user and the viewing user. This configuration makes it possible to generate an effect based on a first evaluation regarding the status of granting the special status to the viewing user.

[0043] Furthermore, the distribution control unit 112 can be configured to accept an input of an item by the viewing user, and in this case, the evaluation items include items related to the input status of a predetermined type of item. In this case, in response to the input of the item, a performance display corresponding to the item may be performed on the content. Also, in this case, the predetermined type of item may be specified by the distribution user from among multiple types of items. This configuration makes it possible to generate an effect based on a first evaluation regarding the input status of the predetermined type of item.

[0044] Furthermore, the distribution control unit 112 may be configured to repeatedly determine the distributor user's second rating (which may be a rating to which the same criteria as the first rating are applied, or a rating to which different criteria are applied) for one or more rating items at a predetermined time included in the predetermined period, and to apply a second effect based on the second rating to the content distributed by the distributor user at the predetermined time in accordance with the determination of the distributor user's second rating. The predetermined time is a certain time range (period), and includes, for example, one day, one week, one month, or a range from a specific date and time to a specific date and time. In this embodiment, the second effect is updated to a predetermined state (for example, an initial state) after the predetermined time has elapsed. The second effect may be the same effect as the first effect, or may be a different effect.

[0045] In this case, the distribution control unit 112 may be configured to repeatedly determine the second rating of the distributor user during a subsequent period following the predetermined period, and, during the subsequent period, to generate a second effect based on the second rating for the content distributed by the distributor user in addition to the first effect, depending on the determination of the second rating of the distributor user. This configuration makes it possible to generate both the first and second effects during the subsequent period.

[0046] Next, a specific example of one aspect of the content distribution server 10 of this embodiment having such functions will be described. In this example, the content distribution service provided by the server 10 is configured as a service for live distribution (live streaming) of content made up of video and audio of a distribution user input (captured) via a camera and microphone possessed by the distribution terminal 30. First, in this example, the information managed by each table included in the various tables 151 will be described.

[0047] 2 illustrates information managed by user information table 1511 in this example. User information table 1511 manages information about users of the content distribution service, and as shown, in association with a "user account" that identifies an individual user, manages information such as "basic information" including account name and date of birth, "distribution history information" that is information about the distribution history as a distribution user, "viewing history information" that is information about the viewing history as a viewing user, "following user information" that is information about other users that this user is following, "family information" that is information about families that this user is a family member of, a "rank" that indicates the rank as a distribution user, a "rank meter value" that indicates the value of a rank meter that is a parameter for determining whether the rank has increased or decreased, a "number of owned coins" that indicates the number of owned virtual coins that can be used in the content distribution service, a "number of owned diamonds" that is the number of owned virtual diamonds, and "classification text" that is the classification as a distribution user set by the user themselves.

[0048] In this example, a family is a community of fans who support a broadcast user, and can be joined in response to an invitation from the broadcast user or a family manager (e.g., designated by the broadcast user), or in response to approval by the broadcast user or family manager of a user's application to join. Family information includes information identifying the broadcast user corresponding to each family (e.g., user account). In this example, a maximum limit (e.g., 100 people) is set for the number of subscribers to a family. In this example, a user can join (belong to) multiple families.

[0049] In this example, coins are given to users for free or for a fee at various times. For example, users can acquire coins for free as a reward such as a login bonus. Also, for example, users can purchase coins for a fee (with real currency). Diamonds, which will be described in more detail later, are given to broadcasting users as one type of reward.

[0050] 3 is a diagram for explaining the ranks of broadcast users in this example. As shown in the figure, in this example, there are six rank bands: "S," "A," "B," "C," "D," and "E." The "S" rank band is made up of six ranks: "S1" to "S6," and each of the four rank bands: "A," "B," "C," and "D" is made up of three ranks (for example, "A1" to "A3"). Furthermore, the "E" rank band is made up of one rank: "E1." In other words, in this example, there are 19 ranks (6 + 3 × 4 + 1 = 19).

[0051] Furthermore, the rank range is highest on the "S" side and lowest on the "E" side. Furthermore, within the same rank range, the larger the number attached to the rank range, the higher the rank, and the smaller the number attached, the lower the rank. In this example, the user's rank is set to "D1" as the initial value. As will be described in more detail later, in this example, the rank is updated based on the daily content distribution performance.

[0052] 4 illustrates information managed by distribution management table 1512 in this example. Distribution management table 1512 manages information related to individual distributions, and as shown in the figure, manages information such as a "distribution user account" identifying the distribution user, a "distribution start date and time" which is the date and time the distribution started, a "distribution duration" which is the duration (elapsed time) since the distribution started, the "number of viewing users (current value and maximum value)", the "number of comments" which is the number of comments entered by viewing users while the content was being distributed, the "number of likes" which are the number of "likes" entered by viewing users while the content was being distributed, the "number of coins consumed" which is the number of coins consumed in response to gift item entries by viewing users while the content was being distributed, the "number of support points" which is the total number of support points granted for this distribution, and "distribution tag information" which is information related to distribution tags granted for this distribution, in association with a "distribution ID" which identifies an individual distribution (content).

[0053] 5 illustrates information managed in this example by broadcast user-specific viewing user management table 1513. Broadcast user-specific viewing user management table 1513 manages information related to viewing users by broadcast user in a target year and month, and as shown, manages information such as the viewing user's "fan level" for the broadcast user in the target year and month, the viewing user's "number of coins consumed," "viewing time," "number of viewing days," and "number of comments entered" for the corresponding broadcast, in association with a combination of a "broadcast user account" that identifies the broadcast user, a "viewing user account" that identifies the viewing user, and a "target year and month."

[0054] In this example, a fan level is set for a distributor user based on the viewing user's monthly behavioral record for content distributed by the distributor user. FIG. 6 illustrates the conditions for each of the multiple fan levels in this example. As shown in the figure, in this example, two or three conditions are set for each fan level, and a user who meets any one of these conditions will be assigned the corresponding fan level (the level will increase). For example, for fan level "1," two conditions are set: condition 1, which states "spend 10 coins or more, watch for 1.5 hours or more, and enter 4 comments or more," and condition 2, which states "spend 100 coins or more," and a user who meets any one of these two conditions will be a viewing user with fan level "1." For example, for fan level "4," three conditions are set: condition 1, "consume more than 1,000 coins, watch for more than 5 hours, watch for more than 3 days, and enter more than 30 comments," condition 2, "consume more than 3,000 coins, watch for more than 2 hours, and enter more than 5 comments," and condition 3, "consume more than 5,500 coins." A user who meets any one of these three conditions becomes a viewing user with fan level "4."

[0055] This determination of fan level is performed in real time while content is being distributed. Specifically, while content is being distributed, server 10 updates the number of coins consumed, viewing time, number of viewing days, and number of comments entered in real time for each viewing user in viewing user management table by distributor 1513, and determines whether or not the fan level has been upgraded based on this information. When the fan level is upgraded, the fan level value of the corresponding record in viewing user management table by distributor 1513 is updated.

[0056] FIG. 7 illustrates information managed by event information table 1514 in this example. Event information table 1514 manages information related to events held in the content distribution service of this example, and as shown, manages information such as a "name," a "start date" which is the first day of the period during which the event is held, an "end date" which is the last day of said period, "participation condition information" which is information related to the conditions for participating in the event, and "reward condition information" which is information related to rewards that can be obtained in the event, in association with an "event ID" which identifies each individual event. The participation condition information includes the rank of broadcast users who are eligible to participate in the event. The reward condition information includes information related to rewards for each ranking in the event.

[0057] 8 illustrates information managed by the event-specific broadcast user management table 1515 in this example. The event-specific broadcast user management table 1515 manages information about broadcast users for each event, and as shown in the figure, associates with a combination of an "event ID" that identifies the event and a "broadcast user account" that identifies the broadcast user participating in the event, and stores the following information: a "contribution rate balance score," which is a score based on the balance of the contribution rates of each viewing user for event points granted to the broadcast user; a "contribution rate balance score ranking," which is the ranking of the contribution rate balance score among broadcast users; a "first real-time buff," which is a real-time buff based on the ranking of the contribution rate balance score; a "knight appointment score," which is a score based on the viewing user's appointment to a knight (role); a "knight appointment score ranking," which is the ranking of the knight appointment score among broadcast users; and a "second real-time buff," which is a real-time buff based on the ranking of the knight appointment score. The system manages information such as "time buff," "number of specific items acquired," which is the number of specific items of a predetermined type acquired, "number of specific items acquired," which is the ranking among broadcasting users in the number of specific items acquired, "third real-time buff," which is a real-time buff based on the ranking of the number of specific items acquired, "today's event points," which is the total number of event points acquired on that day, "today's event point ranking," which is the ranking among broadcasting users in the number of event points on that day, "fourth real-time buff," which is a real-time buff based on the ranking of the number of event points on that day, "total real-time buff," which is the total number of first to fourth real-time buffs, "total event points," which is the total number of event points acquired during the event period, and "total event point ranking," which is the ranking among broadcasting users in the number of total event points. In this example, event points are granted to broadcasting users in response to input of gift items, etc. by viewing users, as will be described in detail below. Further, details of real-time buffs will be described later.

[0058] 9 illustrates information managed by event-specific viewing user management table 1516 in this example. Event-specific viewing user management table 1516 manages information about viewing users for a combination of an event and a broadcast user, and as shown, associates with a combination of an "event ID" that identifies the event, a "broadcast user account" that identifies the broadcast user, and a "viewing user account" that identifies the viewing user, information such as "knight appointment information" that is information about the viewing user's appointment as a knight (role) in the corresponding event, a "number of contribution points" that is the number of event points awarded to the broadcast user due to the viewing user's actions in the corresponding event, a "contribution rate" that is the ratio of the viewing user's number of contribution points to the total number of event points awarded to the broadcast user in the corresponding event, and a "contribution rate ranking" that is the ranking of contribution rates among multiple viewing users for the combination of event and broadcast user. Details of contribution rate will be described later.

[0059] 10 illustrates information managed by the accumulated buff management table 1517 in this example. The accumulated buff management table 1517 manages information related to the accumulated buff for a combination of an event and a broadcast user, and as shown in the figure, manages information such as a "first accumulated buff" which is an accumulated buff corresponding to the first real-time buff described above, a "second accumulated buff" which is an accumulated buff corresponding to the second real-time buff described above, a "third accumulated buff" which is an accumulated buff corresponding to the third real-time buff described above, a "fourth accumulated buff" which is an accumulated buff corresponding to the fourth real-time buff described above, and a "daily accumulated buff" which is the total value of the first to fourth accumulated buffs, in association with a combination of an "event ID" which identifies the event, a "distributor user account" which identifies the broadcast user, and a "date" which identifies the date (which day) during the event's holding period. Details of the accumulated buffs will be described later.

[0060] The information managed by each table has been described above. Next, the processing executed by the content distribution server 10 of this example, and the screens output on the user terminal 30 will be described.

[0061] 11 shows an example of a top screen 50 of the content distribution service displayed on the user terminal 30. The screen 50 is the starting point when using the content distribution service, and as shown in the figure, has a selection area 52 displaying the text "Follow," "Popular," "Featured," and "All," a list display area 54 located below the selection area 52, and a circular distribution button 56 located in the upper right corner of the screen.

[0062] The selection area 52 is an area for selecting the content to be displayed in the list display area 54. Specifically, when "Following" is selected in the selection area 52, the list display area 54 displays a list of broadcasts (content currently being broadcast) of other users the user is following. Similarly, when "Popular" is selected in the selection area 52, the list display area 54 displays a list of broadcasts with a large number of viewing users. Furthermore, when "Featured" is selected in the selection area 52, the list display area 54 displays a list of popular broadcasts (for example, broadcasts with a large number of comments and likes). Furthermore, when "All" is selected in the selection area 52, all broadcasts are subject to list display in the list display area 54.

[0063] As shown in the figure, in the list display area 54, a plurality of individual display areas 541, each displaying information about an individual distribution, are arranged in two columns vertically. The individual display area 541 is configured so that viewing of the corresponding distribution can be started (playback of the corresponding content is started) in response to a user selection. The list display area 54 is configured so that the displayed individual display area 541 can be switched by a flick operation or a slide operation in an up or down direction, for example.

[0064] 12 illustrates an example of the display content of individual display area 541. Individual display area 541 displays an image preset by the content's distributor user, the distributor user's account name, the number of viewing users (current value), etc., and, as illustrated, a first tag object 5411 and a second tag object 5412 are arranged side by side in the left-right direction at the bottom edge. First tag object 5411 displays classification text (managed in user information table 1511) that is the distributor user's classification set by the distributor user themselves in the form of a hashtag (a format in which "#" is added to the beginning of the string) (in the example of FIG. 12, it is displayed as "#bigeaterdistribution"). Second tag object 5412 also displays the latest distribution tag assigned by the viewing user to the corresponding distribution, also in the form of a hashtag (in the example of FIG. 12, it is displayed as "#curry").

[0065] Returning to the top screen 50 of FIG. 11, the distribution button 56 is an object that allows the user to distribute content as a distributor user. When the distribution button 56 is selected by the user, a distribution preparation screen 60, as shown in FIG. 13, is output. As shown, the distribution preparation screen 60 has a distribution title input area 62 for inputting a distribution title, a secret distribution setting switch 64 for setting secret distribution mode, a post setting button 66 for setting the posts (posting messages to SNS) that are automatically made during distribution, and a distribution start button 68 with the text "Start!" added. Secret distribution is a distribution mode for content that can only be viewed by new viewing users (specifically, viewing users whose total viewing time over a certain period of time for the corresponding distributor user is less than a predetermined value).

[0066] When the distribution start button 68 is selected, distribution of the content is started, specifically, content data consisting of video and audio input (captured) via the camera and microphone of the distribution terminal 30 is started to be transmitted to the server 10. In addition, in response to the start of content distribution, a new record is inserted in the distribution management table 1512.

[0067] 14 illustrates a distribution screen 70 that is output on distribution terminal 30 in response to the start of content distribution. As shown in the figure, screen 70 has a video display area 71 that covers the entire screen, a basic information display area 72 located in the upper left corner of the screen, a comment display area 73 located in the lower left corner of the screen, a tag display area 74 located above area 73, a viewer information display area 75 located in the upper right corner of the screen, and a circular distribution stop button 76 located in the center of the bottom edge of the screen.

[0068] The video display area 71 displays the content to be distributed, that is, the image input via the camera of the distribution terminal 30. The distribution user usually takes a picture of themselves via the in-camera of the distribution terminal 30, and in this case, the distributed content includes an image of the distribution user themselves.

[0069] The basic information display area 72 displays basic information about this broadcast, specifically, broadcast user information (profile image, etc.), the number of viewing users of this broadcast (current value), and the number of "likes" entered by viewing users for this broadcast.

[0070] The comment display area 73 is an area for displaying user comments input by each viewing user and system comments automatically input by the server 10. Specifically, in this area 73, a plurality of comment objects 731, each corresponding to an individual comment, are arranged vertically. The comment display area 73 is configured such that when a new comment is input, a corresponding comment object 731 is added to the bottom, and the existing comment objects 731 move sequentially upward. In the comment display area 73, the comment objects 731 displayed are switched by a flick operation or a slide operation in the vertical direction, for example.

[0071] The tag display area 74 displays information about the distribution tags assigned to this distribution, and specifically, in this area 74, multiple tag objects 741, each corresponding to an individual tag, are arranged side by side in the horizontal direction.

[0072] The viewing user information display area 75 displays information about multiple viewing users who are viewing the content being distributed. Specifically, multiple icon objects 751, each corresponding to an individual viewing user, are arranged side by side in the horizontal direction in this area 75. Each object 751 has a circular shape and displays a profile image of the corresponding viewing user. The multiple icon objects 751 are arranged in an order that follows a predetermined rule (for example, in descending order of the number of coins consumed in the current month).

[0073] The distribution stop button 76 is an object that allows the distribution user to stop distribution of content. When the distribution stop button 76 is selected by the distribution user, distribution of the content (transmission of content data from the distribution terminal 30 to the server 10) is stopped.

[0074] 15 illustrates a viewing screen 80 output on the viewing terminal 30. For example, when a viewing user selects an arbitrary distribution (content) via the list display area 54 of the top screen 50, a viewing screen 80 for viewing the selected distribution is output on the viewing terminal 30. As shown in the figure, the screen 80 has a video display area 81, a basic information display area 82, a comment display area 83, a tag display area 84, and a viewing user information display area 85, similar to the distribution screen 70 described above. In addition, the viewing screen 80 has, at the bottom of the screen, an input mode switching button 861, a comment input area 862, a "Like" button 863 with a heart mark, and a gift input button 864 with a gift design.

[0075] The comment input area 862 is an area where a viewing user can input a comment or a distribution tag. While the input mode switching button 861 is not selected, the comment input area 862 is in the normal comment input mode. In the comment input mode, when a character string is input into the comment input area 862 and a confirmation operation is performed, the character string is transmitted as a user comment, and a comment object 731, 831 corresponding to the user comment is added to the comment display area 73, 83 of the distribution screen 70 and the viewing screen 80 at the corresponding distribution terminal 30 (the user terminal 30 of the distribution user who distributes the content being viewed) and at each viewing terminal 30 (each user terminal 30 of multiple viewing users who view the same content). The comment object 731, 831 corresponding to the user comment displays the content of the comment (character string) along with the account name of the viewing user who entered the comment. In addition, when a user comment is input, the server 10 updates (increases by 1) the number of comments for the corresponding distribution in the distribution management table 1512.

[0076] Furthermore, when the input mode switch button 861 is selected, the comment input area 862 enters tag input mode. In tag input mode, when a character string is entered into the comment input area 862 and a confirmation operation is performed, the character string is sent as a distribution tag, and the tag is assigned to the distribution. In this example, viewing users who can input tags are limited to family members of the corresponding distribution user. Specifically, the input mode switch button 861 on the viewing screen 80 is selectable (enabled) if the viewing user is a family member of the distribution user, but is not selectable (disabled) if the viewing user is not a family member of the distribution user. Also, in this example, the number of tags that can be assigned to one distribution in a certain period of time is limited; specifically, the number of tags that can be assigned in a five-minute period is limited to three.

[0077] When a distribution tag is assigned, a corresponding tag object 741, 841 is added to the tag display area 74, 84 of the corresponding distribution screen 70 and viewing screen 80. In the tag display area 74, 84, the tag objects 741, 841 are arranged side by side in the left-right direction, with the tag on the left being newer (added later). Therefore, the tag object 741, 841 corresponding to the newly assigned tag is added to the left end of the tag display area 74, 84. Note that the tag object 741, 841 corresponding to a tag that has been assigned for more than five minutes is deleted (for example, disappears with an animation effect moving to the right).

[0078] In this example, tag objects 741 and 841 display the tag content in the form of a hashtag with a "#" added to the beginning of the string. For example, if the tag content is "Tokyo sightseeing," tag objects 741 and 841 display "#Tokyo sightseeing." The horizontal length of tag objects 741 and 841 is automatically adjusted according to the length of the string to be displayed.

[0079] Furthermore, when a tag is assigned, a comment object 731, 831 corresponding to a system comment notifying the assignment of the tag is added to the comment display area 73, 83 of the corresponding distribution screen 70 and viewing screen 80. The comment object 731, 831 corresponding to the system comment displays the content of the assigned tag along with the account name of the viewing user who assigned (input) the tag, for example, a comment such as "xx tagged the distribution with "#TokyoSightseeing"." Furthermore, when a tag is assigned, distribution tag information for the corresponding distribution is updated in distribution management table 1512.

[0080] The like button 863 is an object that allows the viewing user to input a "like" for the broadcasting user (or content). When the button 863 is selected by the viewing user, a "like" is input, and a comment object 731, 831 corresponding to a system comment notifying the input of a "like" is added to the comment display area 73, 83 of the corresponding broadcasting screen 70 and viewing screen 80. In the comment object 731, 831 corresponding to the system comment, text indicating the input of a "like" is displayed together with the account name of the viewing user who input a "like." Furthermore, when a "like" is input, a corresponding effect display (for example, the display of an animated video effect in which a heart-shaped object is displayed flowing from the bottom to the top of the screen) is performed in the video display area 71, 81 of the broadcasting screen 70 and viewing screen 80. Furthermore, when a "like" is input, the server 10 updates (adds 1 to) the "number of likes" for the corresponding broadcast in the broadcast management table 1512.

[0081] The gift input button 864 is an object for the viewing user to input a gift item. When the button 864 is selected, a gift selection screen 90 for selecting the gift item to input is displayed superimposed on the lower area of ​​the viewing screen 80, as shown in FIG.

[0082] 17 illustrates a gift selection screen 90. As shown in the figure, the screen 90 has a selection area 91, a list display area 94 located below the area 91 and displaying a list of one or more gift items, a price range selection area 96 located below the area 94 for selecting the price range of the gift items to be displayed, and a purchase button 97 located in the lower right corner of the screen as an object for purchasing coins. In addition, the number of coins owned by the corresponding user is displayed in the lower left corner of the gift selection screen 90.

[0083] The selection area 91 is an area for selecting (filtering) the content to be displayed in the list display area 94, and displays text such as "All," "History," "Popular," and "Limited Time Offer." When "All" is selected in the selection area 91, all gift items are displayed in a list in the list display area 94. When "History" is selected in the selection area 91, gift items previously entered by the corresponding user are displayed in a list in the list display area 94. When "Popular" is selected, gift items with a high number of entries across the entire content distribution service are displayed in a list in the list display area 94. When "Limited Time Offer" is selected, gift items that are offered for a limited time and that can be entered at that time (for example, gift items that can be entered for a limited-time event within the content distribution service) are displayed in a list.

[0084] In the list display area 94, a plurality of individual display areas 941, each displaying information about an individual gift item, are arranged in four columns in the vertical direction. The individual display areas 941 display an image corresponding to the gift item and the number of coins (price) required to input that item. The list display area 94 is configured so that the displayed individual display areas 941 can be switched by a flick operation or a slide operation in the vertical direction, for example. When a viewing user selects one of the individual display areas 941, the corresponding gift item is input.

[0085] The price range selection area 96 is an area for further selecting (filtering) the display content in the list display area 94 by the price range of the gift items. When a price range is selected in the price range selection area 96, gift items in the corresponding price range are displayed in the list display area 94.

[0086] When a gift item is input, a comment object 731, 831 corresponding to a system comment notifying the input of the gift item is added to the comment display area 73, 83 of the corresponding distribution screen 70 and viewing screen 80. The comment object 731, 831 corresponding to the system comment displays the name of the input gift item together with the account name of the viewing user who input the gift item. Furthermore, when a gift item is input, a visual effect corresponding to the input gift item is displayed in the video display area 71, 81 of the corresponding distribution screen 70 and viewing screen 80. The visual effect display includes the display of an image and video effects corresponding to the input gift item.

[0087] In addition, when a gift item is input, the server 10 subtracts the number of coins for the input gift item from the number of coins held by the corresponding user (the viewing user who input the gift item) in the user information table 1511, and adds the number of coins to the number of coins consumed for the corresponding distribution in the distribution management table 1512.

[0088] In this example, the number of support points in the distribution management table 1512 is updated in real time while the content is being distributed. In this example, the number of support points is calculated based on the number of likes, the number of comments, and the number of coins consumed, and the larger these values ​​are, the larger the number of support points will be. When the distribution user selects the distribution stop button 76 on the distribution screen 70, the distribution of the content ends.

[0089] Here, the process for determining a broadcast user's rank will be described. In this example, the rank for the day is determined (updated) based on the number of support points the user earned as a broadcast user on the previous day. FIG. 18 is a flowchart illustrating the process executed by server 10 when updating each user's rank. This process is executed late at night (e.g., 3:00 AM) every day.

[0090] As shown in the figure, the server 10 first calculates the number of support points that each user earned as a broadcast user on the previous day (step S100). The number of support points that each user earned on the previous day is calculated by referencing the broadcast user account, broadcast start date and time, and number of support points in the broadcast management table 1512. Note that if a user broadcasts multiple times in one day, the number of support points earned for each of the multiple broadcasts is added together.

[0091] After calculating the number of support points for each broadcast user on the previous day in this manner, the server 10 then updates the rank meter value for each user (step S110). Figure 19 illustrates an example of a rule for updating the rank meter value. As shown in the figure, in this example, the rank meter value fluctuates based on the ranking of each user's number of support points for the previous day within the rank band to which that user belongs. The initial value of the rank meter value is "0".

[0092] Specifically, the update rule for the rank meter value is as follows: first, if the ranking in the number of support points within the rank band is in the top 10%, the rank meter value will fluctuate by "+2" (an increase of 2 points). Similarly, if the ranking is in the top 11 to 30% (the remaining 20% ​​after excluding the top 10% from the top 30%), the fluctuate will be "+1", if the ranking is in the middle 30% (the top 31 to 60%), the fluctuate will be "±0" (no increase or decrease), and if the ranking is in the bottom 40%, the fluctuate will be "-1" (a decrease of 1 point). Note that if no broadcast was made on the previous day, the fluctuate of the rank meter value will be "-1" regardless of the ranking within the rank band. In step S110, the rank meter value of each user is updated in the user information table 1511 according to the update rule illustrated in FIG. 19.

[0093] Returning to the flowchart of FIG. 18, once the rank meter value of each user has been updated, the server 10 then updates the rank based on the updated rank meter value (step S120). In this example, the rank meter value required to rank up is +3, and the rank meter value required to rank down is -3. When the rank meter value reaches these values, the user is ranked up / down. The rank meter value of the user whose rank has been updated (the user whose rank has been upgraded or downgraded) is cleared to 0. Note that in another example of this embodiment, in order to prevent a sudden rank upgrade / downgrade in a short period of time, for example, in the case of a rank upgrade / downgrade across rank bands, the absolute value of the required rank meter value may be made larger (for example, +6 or -6) compared to a rank upgrade / downgrade within the same rank band.

[0094] The above describes the processing when determining the broadcast user's rank. Next, the processing when granting diamonds to the broadcast user will be described. In this example, diamonds, which are one of the rewards, are granted to the broadcast user based on the broadcast time of the previous day and the rank on the previous day. FIG. 20 is a flowchart illustrating the processing executed by server 10 when granting diamonds to each user. These processing steps are executed late at night every day, and are executed, for example, at a time (e.g., midnight) before the processing executed when updating each user's rank as illustrated in FIG. 18.

[0095] As shown in the figure, the server 10 first calculates the broadcast time of each user on the previous day (step S200). Specifically, the broadcast time of each user on the previous day is calculated by referring to the broadcast user account, broadcast start date and time, and broadcast duration in the broadcast management table 1512. If a user broadcasts multiple times in one day, the broadcast durations of each of the multiple broadcasts are added together.

[0096] Next, the server 10 grants each user a number of diamonds based on the calculated distribution time and the standard number of diamonds (step S210). Specifically, each user is granted a number of diamonds calculated by multiplying the calculated distribution time by the standard number of diamonds. The standard number of diamonds is preset for each rank so that the higher the rank, the greater the number, and the standard number of diamonds corresponding to each user's rank on the previous day is applied. When diamonds are granted to a user, the number of diamonds held by the corresponding user is updated in the user information table 1511. In this example, diamonds can be exchanged for coins or real currency.

[0097] The above describes the processing when awarding diamonds to a broadcast user. Next, we will describe the processing during the period when a specific event is being held in the content distribution service of this example. In this example, when an event in which the broadcast user is participating is being held, in addition to the number of support points described above, the number of event points held by the broadcast user is updated. In this example, event points are awarded in response to the viewing user's input of gift items, etc., as described above, and specifically, the number of event points (today's event points and total event points) in event-specific broadcast user management table 1515 is updated. The more coins consumed in response to the input of gift items, etc., the greater the number of event points awarded. Also, in this example, in event-specific broadcast user management table 1515, the total event point number ranking based on each broadcast user's total event point number is updated at predetermined time intervals (e.g., every minute).

[0098] Additionally, in this example, as event points are awarded to the broadcasting user, the number of contribution points of the corresponding viewing user (who inputted a gift item, etc.) is updated. Specifically, in response to the input of a gift item, etc. by the viewing user, the number of contribution points of the corresponding viewing user is updated (the number of event points awarded to the broadcasting user is added) in event-specific viewing user management table 1516.

[0099] Also, in this example, the viewing user can become a knight during the event period. Figure 21 shows an example of a viewing screen 80 when a broadcasting user is participating in an event. On the viewing screen 80 in this state, as shown in the figure, a knight appointment object 87 with the appearance of a castle is placed below the viewing user information display area 85.

[0100] When the knight appointment object 87 is selected, a knight appointment screen 300, as shown in FIG. 22, is output. As shown, this screen 300 has a mega knight display area 301 that displays a list of viewing users who have been appointed as mega knights for the corresponding broadcast user, a normal knight display area 302 that displays a list of viewing users who have been appointed as normal knights for this broadcast user, a mini knight display area 303 that displays a list of viewing users who have been appointed as mini knights for this broadcast user, a mega knight appointment button 3041 that displays "Become a mega knight," a normal knight appointment button 3042 that displays "Become a normal knight," and a mini knight appointment button 3043 that displays "Become a mini knight." Mega knight, normal knight, and mini knight are knight levels in this example, with the highest level knight being a mega knight and the lowest level being a mini knight. Viewing users who have been appointed as knights are identified by referencing the knight appointment information in the event-specific viewing user management table 1516.

[0101] Display areas 301-303 display profile images of viewing users who have been appointed as knights of the corresponding level side by side in the horizontal direction, and are configured so that the displayed viewing users can be switched by a left-right flick operation / slide operation, etc. Buttons 3041-3043 are objects that allow viewing users to become knights of the corresponding level. When one of buttons 3041-3043 is selected, the viewing user becomes a knight of the corresponding level. In response to the appointment as a knight, the number of coins corresponding to the appointed knight's level (the higher the level, the more coins there are) is subtracted from the corresponding user's owned coins in user information table 1511, and the number of coins is added to the number of coins consumed for the corresponding distribution in distribution management table 1512. In addition, in response to the appointment as a knight, the knight appointment information of the corresponding viewing user is updated in event-specific viewing user management table 1516. When a viewing user becomes a knight, the comment objects 731, 831 corresponding to the viewing user and the icon objects 751, 851 in the viewing user information display areas 75, 85 are decorated thereafter.

[0102] In this example, a buff is applied to increase the event points awarded to the distribution user during the event period, and the buff includes a real-time buff (second effect) and an accumulated buff (first effect). First, the real-time buff will be described.

[0103] Real-time buffs are buffs that are applied throughout the entire event period. The event point increase rate for real-time buffs is repeatedly updated every minute based on the broadcaster's evaluation, which will be explained in more detail below. In this example, the broadcaster's evaluation criteria for calculating the buff increase rate are the following four items: (1) Contribution Rate Balance Score (2) Knight Inauguration Score (3) Number of specific items acquired (4) Event points for the day These evaluation items are merely examples, and various other evaluation items may be applied in other examples of this embodiment.

[0104] (1) The contribution rate balance score is a parameter that quantifies the balance of contribution rates among multiple viewing users, and the smaller the bias in the contribution rates (the less the contribution to event points is biased toward a few viewing users), the larger the value. Specifically, the contribution rate balance score is calculated so that the larger the total value of the contribution rates of a predetermined number of viewing users with the highest contribution rates (e.g., 1st to 3rd place) is, the smaller the contribution rate balance score becomes. As will be described in more detail later, the contribution rate balance score is repeatedly updated every minute.

[0105] (2) The knight appointment score is a parameter that is added when a viewing user is appointed as a knight. Specifically, when a viewing user is appointed as a knight, the knight appointment score is added in the event-specific distributor user management table 1515. The higher the level of the appointed knight, the larger the added value becomes.

[0106] (3) The number of specific items acquired is the number of times a specific type of gift item is entered by the viewing user. Specifically, when that specific type of gift item is entered by the viewing user, the number of specific items acquired is incremented in the event-specific broadcast user management table 1515. In this example, the type of eligible gift item is set in advance by the operator of the content distribution service for each event. In another example of this embodiment, the type of eligible gift item is specified by the broadcast user from among multiple types of gift items for each event or broadcast.

[0107] (4) The number of event points for that day is the total number of event points granted to the broadcast user on that day. As described above, when a gift item or the like is entered by the viewing user, the number of event points for that day is updated in the event-specific broadcast user management table 1515.

[0108] The real-time buff is set based on the ranking among broadcast users for each of these four evaluation items. Figure 23 is a flowchart illustrating the process executed by the server 10 to set the real-time buff. This process is repeatedly executed every minute.

[0109] As shown in the figure, the server 10 first sets a contribution rate balance score for each broadcast user (step S300). Specifically, the contribution rate, which is the ratio of the number of contribution points of each viewing user to the total number of event points granted to the broadcast user, and the ranking of the contribution rates are updated, and the contribution rate balance score is calculated and set based on the total value of the contribution rates of a predetermined number of viewing users with the highest contribution rates. Specifically, the contribution rate is calculated using the following formula: Contribution rate = Number of contribution points / Number of event points of the broadcasting user on that day Furthermore, the contribution rate ranking is a ranking among multiple viewing users who contribute to the event points of the same broadcast user. The contribution rate of each viewing user and the contribution rate ranking are managed in the event-specific viewing user management table 1516. Furthermore, as described above, the contribution rate balance score is calculated so that it becomes smaller the greater the total value of the contribution rates of a predetermined number of viewing users with higher contribution rates, and is managed in the event-specific broadcast user management table 1515.

[0110] Next, server 10 sets the contribution rate balance score ranking of each broadcast user (step S305). Specifically, the contribution rate balance score ranking at that time among multiple broadcast users participating in the event is calculated, and the contribution rate balance score ranking of each broadcast user is updated in event-specific broadcast user management table 1515.

[0111] Next, the server 10 sets a first real-time buff based on the ranking of the contribution rate balance score (step S310). Specifically, the first real-time buff is "+7%" if the ranking of the contribution rate balance score is within the top 10%, "+6%" if it is within the top 11-20%, "+5%" if it is within the top 21-50%, "+4%" if it is within the top 51-80%, and "+3%" if it is outside the top 80%, and the first real-time buff of each broadcast user is updated in the event-specific broadcast user management table 1515.

[0112] Next, server 10 sets the knight appointment score ranking of each broadcast user (step S320). Specifically, the knight appointment score ranking at that time among multiple broadcast users participating in the event is calculated, and the knight appointment score ranking of each broadcast user is updated in event-specific broadcast user management table 1515.

[0113] Next, the server 10 sets a second real-time buff based on the ranking of the knight appointment score (step S330). Specifically, like the first real-time buff described above, the second real-time buff is "+7%" if the ranking of the knight appointment score is within the top 10%, "+6%" if it is within the top 11-20%, "+5%" if it is within the top 21-50%, "+4%" if it is within the top 51-80%, and "+3%" if it is outside the top 80%, and the second real-time buff for each broadcast user is updated in the event-specific broadcast user management table 1515.

[0114] Next, server 10 sets the ranking of each broadcast user based on the number of specific items acquired (step S340). Specifically, the ranking of the number of specific items acquired at that time among multiple broadcast users participating in the event is calculated, and the ranking of each broadcast user based on the number of specific items acquired is updated in event-specific broadcast user management table 1515.

[0115] Next, the server 10 sets a third real-time buff based on the ranking of the number of specific items acquired (step S350). Specifically, the third real-time buff is "+2%" if the ranking of the number of specific items acquired is within the top 10%, "+1.5%" if the ranking is within the top 11-20%, "+1%" if the ranking is within the top 21-50%, "+0.5%" if the ranking is within the top 51-80%, and "+0%" if the ranking is outside the top 80%, and the third real-time buff of each broadcast user is updated in the event-specific broadcast user management table 1515. The third real-time buff based on the ranking of the number of specific items acquired is set to have a lower event point increase rate than the other real-time buffs.

[0116] Next, server 10 sets the ranking of each broadcast user's current day event point number (step S360). Specifically, the current day event point number ranking among multiple broadcast users participating in the event is calculated, and each broadcast user's current day event point number ranking is updated in event-specific broadcast user management table 1515.

[0117] Next, server 10 sets a fourth real-time buff based on the ranking of the number of event points for that day (step S370). Specifically, like the first and second real-time buffs described above, the fourth real-time buff is "+7%" if the ranking of the number of event points for that day is within the top 10%, "+6%" if it is within the top 11-20%, "+5%" if it is within the top 21-50%, "+4%" if it is within the top 51-80%, and "+3%" if it is outside the top 80%, and the fourth real-time buff for each broadcast user is updated in broadcast user management table by event 1515.

[0118] Next, server 10 sets a total real-time buff for each broadcast user (step S380). Specifically, the total real-time buff is calculated by adding up the values ​​of the first to fourth real-time buffs, and the total real-time buff for each broadcast user is updated in event-specific broadcast user management table 1515.

[0119] In this way, the total real-time buff is repeatedly updated every minute, and when event points are awarded in response to input by the viewing user of a gift item, etc., the total real-time buff at that time is applied. For example, if the event points awarded in response to input of a gift item, etc. before applying the buff are 100 points, and the total real-time buff at that time is "+15%", 115 event points will be awarded to the broadcasting user.

[0120] In another example of this embodiment, the later the date in the event period (the closer to the final day), the larger the increase rate of the set buff may be. Also, for a specific real-time buff (which may be different for each date) among the first to fourth real-time buffs on each date in the event period, a bonus may be added to the increase rate. Such a specific real-time buff may be notified to the user, for example, at the start of each date (e.g., 1:00 AM).

[0121] The above explains real-time buffs. Next, we will explain cumulative buffs. A cumulative buff is a buff that accumulates during the period from the first day of the event period to the day before the last day (a predetermined period) and is activated on the last day (subsequent period). For example, as shown in FIG. 24, if you acquire a cumulative buff of "+20%" on the first day of the event period, a cumulative buff of "+25%" on the second day, a cumulative buff of "+31%" on the third day, and a cumulative buff of "+36%" on the fourth day, then on the fifth day, which is the final day, a cumulative buff of "+112%" will be activated, which is the sum of these buffs.

[0122] The real-time buff updated at the end of each schedule (specifically, at 11:59 PM each day) is set as the buff that is accumulated as an accumulated buff until the day before the last day of the event period. FIG. 25 is a flowchart executed by the server 10 after updating the final real-time buff for each schedule. The server 10 first sets the first to fourth accumulated buffs for each broadcast user as shown in the figure (step S400). Specifically, the values ​​of the first to fourth real-time buffs at that time (i.e., updated at the end of each schedule) are registered as the first to fourth accumulated buffs for the corresponding schedule in the accumulated buff management table 1517.

[0123] Next, the server 10 sets a daily accumulated buff (step S410). Specifically, the daily accumulated buff is calculated by adding up the values ​​of the first to fourth accumulated buffs, and is registered in the accumulated buff management table 1517 as the daily accumulated buff for each broadcast user for the corresponding date.

[0124] Next, server 10 initializes the contribution rate balance score, knight appointment score, number of acquired specific items, and number of today's event points (step S420). Specifically, the contribution rate balance score, knight appointment score, number of acquired specific items, and number of today's event points of each broadcast user are cleared in event-specific broadcast user management table 1515. Note that along with clearing the contribution rate balance score, the number of contribution points, contribution rate, and contribution rate ranking of each viewing user are also cleared in event-specific viewing user management table 1516. In this way, in this example, since the parameters used when calculating the buff (contribution rate balance score, knight appointment score, number of acquired specific items, and number of today's event points) are cleared every day, it can be said that the real-time buff is also initialized every day.

[0125] 26 illustrates an example of an event information screen 200 output on the distribution terminal 30. The screen 200 is a screen that displays information about an event in which the corresponding distribution user is participating, and as shown in the figure, has a basic information display area 202, a real-time buff information display area 203 that displays information about real-time buffs, a contribution rate information display area 204 that displays information about the contribution rate balance score, a real-time buff detailed information display area 206 that displays detailed information about the real-time buffs, and a stacked buff information display area 208 that displays information about the stacked buffs.

[0126] The basic information display area 202 displays information about the broadcast user (profile picture, account name, etc.), as well as the current total event points and total event point ranking (each managed in the event-specific broadcast user management table 1515). The real-time buff information display area 203 displays the current total real-time buff value (managed in the event-specific broadcast user management table 1515).

[0127] The contribution rate information display area 204 has a contribution rate balance gauge 2042 that indicates the state of the contribution rate balance score. The gauge 2042 indicates the current ranking of the contribution rate balance score (managed in the event-specific distributor user management table 1515). Specifically, the gauge 2042 has five scale objects 2043 arranged in a horizontal direction, and the object 2043 corresponding to the current ranking of the contribution rate balance score is displayed in a lit state. Specifically, for example, if the ranking is within the top 20%, the rightmost scale object 2043 is displayed in a lit state; if the ranking is within the top 21 to 40%, the second scale object 2043 from the right is displayed in a lit state; if the ranking is within the top 41 to 60%, the third scale object 2043 from the right is displayed in a lit state; if the ranking is within the top 61 to 80%, the fourth scale object 2043 from the right is displayed in a lit state; and if the ranking is outside the top 80%, the leftmost scale object 2043 is displayed in a lit state.

[0128] The real-time buff detailed information display area 206 has a first buff display area 2061 that displays a first real-time buff based on the current contribution balance score ranking, a second buff display area 2062 that displays a second real-time buff based on the knight appointment score ranking, a third buff display area 2063 that displays a third real-time buff based on the number of specific items acquired, and a fourth buff display area 2064 that displays a fourth real-time buff based on the number of event points for that day. The values ​​of these first to fourth real-time buffs are managed in the event-specific distribution user management table 1515.

[0129] The accumulated buff information display area 208 displays the value of the total accumulated buff (predetermined parameter), which is the total value of the daily accumulated buffs for each schedule at that time, and has a details button 2081. The value (additional value) of the daily accumulated buff for each schedule is managed in the accumulated buff management table 1517.

[0130] When the details button 2081 is selected, an accumulated buff information screen 210 shown in Fig. 27 is output. As shown in the figure, the screen 210 has an overall buff display area 212 that displays the value of the overall accumulated buff, and a buff list display area 214 that displays a list of accumulated buffs for each date during the event period.

[0131] The buff list display area 214 has four individual display areas 2141 arranged vertically, each corresponding to a schedule from the first to fourth days. The areas 2141 display the value of the accumulated buff for the corresponding schedule. Specifically, if the accumulated buff for the corresponding schedule has been confirmed (i.e., the corresponding schedule has been completed), the individual display area 2141 displays the confirmed value of the daily accumulated buff and has a confirmed object 2142. Furthermore, if the corresponding schedule is the current day, the individual display area 2141 displays the value of the overall real-time buff at that time, and does not have a confirmed object 2142. Note that if the corresponding schedule is the next day or later, the individual display area 2141 does not display the buff value.

[0132] When the confirmed object 2142 is selected, an accumulated buff detailed information screen 220, as shown in FIG. 28, is output. As shown in the figure, the screen 220 has an accumulated buff display area 222 that displays the value of the daily accumulated buff for the corresponding schedule, and an accumulated buff list display area 224 that displays a list of the first to fourth accumulated buffs, which are the breakdown of the daily accumulated buff. The accumulated buff list display area 224 has four individual display areas 2241 that correspond to the first to fourth accumulated buffs, arranged vertically. The individual display areas 2241 display information about the corresponding accumulated buff (the value of the corresponding parameter, its ranking, and the value of the accumulated buff). Regarding real-time buffs, the value of the total real-time buff and its breakdown (the values ​​of the first to fourth real-time buffs) may also be displayed on a screen equivalent to the accumulated buff detailed information screen 220.

[0133] On the final day of the event period, the accumulated buffs accumulated up to the previous day and the real-time buffs are added together and applied. For example, as shown in Figure 29, if the total accumulated buff accumulated up to the day before the final day is "+112%, 112% is always added to the total real-time buff value, which is updated repeatedly every minute. In other words, on the final day of the event period, the real-time buff is given a base boost based on the accumulated buffs accumulated up to the previous day.

[0134] 29, on the final day of the event period, real-time buffs are updated until 11:30 PM (deadline), and the real-time buff values ​​updated at this point are also applied to the remaining time (subsequent time) after 11:30 PM. This prevents the need for complex strategies regarding real-time buffs just before the end of the event period, and allows viewing users to focus on contributing to event points (i.e., inputting gift items, etc.).

[0135] When the event period ends, the broadcaster user will be awarded a reward according to their ranking in total event points at that time.

[0136] In the above example, a buff is set based on the ranking of the broadcasting user for each evaluation item, but a buff may be set based on the broadcasting user's evaluation other than ranking (for example, an absolute evaluation for each evaluation item). For example, a buff may be set based on the contribution rate balance score, knight appointment score, number of specific items acquired, or the value of the day's event points themselves.

[0137] In the above example, an effect (buff) was set to increase the number of event points awarded to a broadcasting user in response to input of gift items, etc. by viewing users based on the ranking among broadcasting users for each evaluation item, but this effect may be configured to increase various parameters other than the number of event points. Furthermore, in another example of this embodiment, instead of at least one of a real-time buff and an accumulation buff, various effects different from these buffs may be applied to the content. For example, a special effect may be displayed on the content based on the ranking among broadcasting users for each evaluation item.

[0138] In the above example, multiple third real-time buffs and multiple third cumulative buffs may be generated based on the ranking of the number of specific items of a predetermined type acquired. For example, a buff based on the ranking of the number of first items acquired and a buff based on the ranking of the number of second items acquired may be generated.

[0139] In the example above, on the final day of the event period, the real-time buff value updated at the time of the real-time buff update deadline is applied to the remaining time, but this updating and application of real-time buffs may also be performed on each day other than the final day. In this case, the real-time buff applied to the remaining time is also initialized afterwards.

[0140] In the above example, the real-time buff updated at the end of each date is set as the buff that accumulates as an accumulated buff until the day before the last day of the event period, but a value different from this real-time buff may also be set as the accumulated buff.

[0141] The content distribution server 10 of the present embodiment described above repeatedly determines a first evaluation (e.g., ranking among other broadcast users) of a broadcast user for evaluation items (e.g., contribution rate balance score, knight appointment score, number of specific items acquired, and number of event points for that day, etc.) based on the behavior of the viewing user during a predetermined period (e.g., the period until the day before the last day of the event period), sets an additional value (e.g., the value of a daily accumulated buff) for a predetermined parameter (e.g., an overall accumulated buff) associated with the broadcast user according to the determination of the first evaluation, and generates a first effect (e.g., an accumulated buff) based on the value of the predetermined parameter reflecting the multiple additional values ​​that have been repeatedly set, thereby preventing the behavior of viewing users from concentrating, for example, immediately before the end of the predetermined period. In other words, the server 10 prevents bias in the behavior of content viewing users.

[0142] In other embodiments of the present invention, some or all of the functions of the content distribution server 10 in the above-described embodiments may be realized by cooperation between the server 10 and the user terminal 30, or may be realized by the user terminal 30. In other words, the system (or device) of the present invention may be configured not only by the content distribution server 10, but also by the content distribution server 10 and the user terminal 30, or may be configured by the user terminal 30.

[0143] The processes and procedures described herein, other than those explicitly described, may be implemented by software, hardware, or any combination thereof. For example, the processes and procedures described herein may be implemented by implementing logic corresponding to the processes and procedures in media such as integrated circuits, volatile memory, non-volatile memory, and magnetic disks. The processes and procedures described herein may also be implemented as computer programs corresponding to the processes and procedures and executed by various computers.

[0144] Although processes and procedures described herein are described as being performed by a single device, software, component, or module, such processes or procedures may be performed by multiple devices, software, components, and / or modules. Also, the software and hardware elements described herein may be implemented by combining them into fewer components or breaking them down into more components. [Explanation of symbols]

[0145] 10 Content distribution server 11. Computer Processor 111 Management function control section 112 Distribution control section 15 Storage 151 various tables 1511 User Information Table 1512 Delivery Management Table 1513 Viewing user management table by distribution user 1514 Event Information Table 1515 Event-specific distribution user management table 1516 Event-specific viewing user management table 1517 Stacked Buff Management Table 20. Communication Networks 30 User terminals 40 Server-side programs 42 Terminal side program 50 Top screen 60 Distribution preparation screen 70 Streaming Screen 80 viewing screen 90 Gift selection screen 200 Event Information Screen 210 Stacked Buff Information Screen 220 Stacked Buff Detail Information Screen 300 Knight Inauguration Screen

Claims

1. 1. A system for providing a content distribution service, comprising one or more computer processors, the one or more computer processors comprising: a step of repeatedly determining, during a first period, a first evaluation of the distributor user for one or more evaluation items based at least on the behavior of each of a plurality of viewing users who view content distributed by the distributor user; In response to a determination of the first evaluation of the broadcast user, setting an additional value for a predetermined parameter associated with the broadcast user based on the first evaluation; generating a first effect based on the value of the predetermined parameter reflecting the multiple added values ​​that have been repeatedly set, on the content distributed by the distribution user; system.

2. the step of determining the first evaluation includes determining a ranking among a plurality of broadcast users for the evaluation item as the first evaluation; The system of claim 1.

3. the step of determining the first evaluation includes determining the first evaluation of the broadcast user at a plurality of first time points included in the first period; The system of claim 1.

4. the step of generating the first effect generates the first effect in a second period following the first period; The system of claim 1.

5. the first effect influences a first behavior by each of the plurality of viewing users; The system of claim 1.

6. the one or more computer processors further execute a step of awarding points to the distributor user in response to the first action taken by each of the plurality of viewing users; the first effect is to increase the points; The system of claim 5.

7. The one or more computer processors further: repeatedly determining the second evaluation of the broadcast user for the one or more evaluation items during a first time period included in the first period; during the first time period, in response to a determination of the second rating of the distributor user, generating a second effect based on the second rating on the content distributed by the distributor user; The second effect is updated to a predetermined state after the first time period has ended. The system of claim 1.

8. the step of generating the first effect includes generating the first effect in a second period following the first period; The one or more computer processors further: repeatedly determining the second evaluation of the broadcast user for the one or more evaluation items during the second period; during the second period, in response to a determination of the second rating of the distributor user, generating a second effect based on the second rating in addition to the first effect for the content distributed by the distributor user; The system of claim 7.

9. the one or more computer processors further execute a step of awarding points to the distributor user in response to the first action taken by each of the plurality of viewing users; The one or more evaluation items include an item related to the point allocation status, The system of claim 5.

10. The one or more computer processors further perform the step of assigning a role to the viewing user in response to a second action by the viewing user; The one or more evaluation items include an item related to the role assignment status, The system of claim 1.

11. The one or more computer processors further perform the step of accepting an input of an item by the viewing user; The one or more evaluation items include an item related to the input status of a predetermined type of item. The system of claim 1.

12. The predetermined type of item is designated by the broadcast user from among a plurality of types of items. The system of claim 11.

13. 1. A method, executed by one or more computers, for providing a content distribution service, comprising: a step of repeatedly determining, during a first period, a first evaluation of the distributor user for one or more evaluation items based at least on the behavior of each of a plurality of viewing users who view content distributed by the distributor user; In response to a determination of the first evaluation of the broadcast user, setting an additional value for a predetermined parameter associated with the broadcast user based on the first evaluation; generating a first effect based on the value of the predetermined parameter reflecting the multiple added values ​​that have been repeatedly set, on the content distributed by the distribution user, method.

14. A program for providing a content distribution service, the program being installed on one or more computers, a step of repeatedly determining, during a first period, a first evaluation of the distributor user for one or more evaluation items based at least on the behavior of each of a plurality of viewing users who view content distributed by the distributor user; In response to a determination of the first evaluation of the broadcast user, setting an additional value for a predetermined parameter associated with the broadcast user based on the first evaluation; generating a first effect based on the value of the predetermined parameter reflecting the multiple added values ​​that have been repeatedly set, on the content distributed by the distribution user; program.

15. An apparatus for providing a content distribution service, comprising: a means for repeatedly determining a first evaluation of the distributor user for one or more evaluation items based at least on the behavior of each of a plurality of viewing users who view content distributed by the distributor user during a first period; means for setting an additional value for a predetermined parameter associated with the broadcast user based on the first evaluation in response to a determination of the first evaluation of the broadcast user; and a means for generating a first effect based on the value of the predetermined parameter reflecting the multiple added values ​​that have been repeatedly set, for the content distributed by the distribution user. Device.

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