Information distribution system, information distribution method, program, and program storage medium

Abstract

To provide an information distribution system, an information distribution method, a program, and a program storage medium with which a viewer can view information being distributed together with their favorite commentator while enjoying their favorite commentary.SOLUTION: An information distribution system comprises: an appreciation information distribution unit that distributes appreciation information to be appreciated by a viewer; a commentary information supply unit that supplies one or more pieces of commentary information made by a commentator who expresses views on the appreciation information; a viewing information receiving unit that receives the at least one or more pieces of commentary information as selective viewing information; and a tripartite information management unit that manages cooperation information for performing cooperation among at least three pieces of information, namely, appreciation distribution information distributed from the appreciation information distribution unit, commentary supply information supplied from the commentary information supply unit, and viewing receiving information received by the viewing information receiving unit.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an information distribution system, an information distribution method, a program, and a program storage medium that distribute information related to a program being distributed in synchronization with the program. [Background technology]

[0002] As an example of this type of technology, Patent Document 1 discloses a technical concept in which related information relating to a program being distributed is distributed from a server via a network in synchronization with the program. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2003-203035 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In the above-mentioned Patent Document 1, related information posted on a homepage is updated as needed in conjunction with a program being distributed, allowing viewers to obtain the related information in real time. However, the related information that is updated in conjunction with a program being distributed is limited to related information that has been prepared in advance. In other words, it is limited to related information that has been prepared in advance on a server or the like.

[0005] On the other hand, there are many viewers who prefer to watch programs with commentary by predetermined guests or commentators. However, while it is fine to select a program when a commentator of one's choice is available, there are many cases where such a program is not available when one happens to be watching, or the commentator is not one of one's choice, or even if such a program exists, one cannot find it.

[0006] Furthermore, the information that viewers want to view in conjunction with a program being distributed varies greatly depending on the viewer, and in addition to commentary that they like, there is also linked viewing information that they like to view.

[0007] Therefore, the present invention is intended to solve the problems of the prior art as described above, and aims to provide an information distribution system, information distribution method, program, and program storage medium that, first, allows a user to watch a currently distributed program together with a commentator of their choice while enjoying commentary of their choice, and second, allows a user to watch linked viewing information of their choice together with the content of the currently distributed program. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] Therefore, in order to solve the above-mentioned problems, the information distribution system of the first aspect of the present invention comprises a viewing information distribution unit that distributes viewing information to be viewed by viewers, a commentary information supply unit that supplies one or more pieces of commentary information by commentators who express their opinions on the viewing information, a viewing information receiving unit that receives at least one or more pieces of commentary information as selective viewing information, and a three-party information management unit that manages coordination information for coordination among at least three parties: the viewing distribution information distributed from the viewing information distribution unit, the commentary supply information supplied from the commentary information supply unit, and the viewing reception information received by the viewing information receiving unit.

[0009] In addition, the information distribution method of the 23rd aspect, which corresponds to the first aspect, comprises a viewing information distribution process for distributing viewing information to be viewed by a viewer, a commentary information supply process for supplying one or more pieces of commentary information by commentators who express their opinions on the viewing information, a viewing information receiving process for receiving at least one or more pieces of commentary information as selective viewing information, and a three-party information management process for managing coordination information for coordination among at least three parties: the viewing distribution information distributed in the viewing information distribution unit process, the commentary supply information supplied in the commentary information supply process, and the viewing reception information received in the viewing information receiving process.

[0010] A program according to a 24th aspect corresponding to the first aspect causes the information distribution system described above to execute the information distribution method described above.

[0011] A program storage medium according to a 25th aspect corresponding to the first aspect stores the above-mentioned program so as to be usable by the above-mentioned information distribution system.

[0012] In these information distribution systems or information distribution methods, or in accordance with the programs or program storage media of these aspects, viewing information to be viewed by viewers is distributed, one or more pieces of commentary information by commentators who express their views on the viewing information are supplied, at least one or more pieces of commentary information are received as selective viewing information, and linkage information is managed to link at least three parties: the distributed viewing distribution information, the supplied commentary supply information, and the received viewing reception information.

[0013] In this case, viewing information to be viewed by the viewer is distributed, and commentary information is generated and provided by a commentator who expresses his or her views on the distributed viewing information. At least one of the commentary information is received as selective viewing information. Linkage information between the viewing distribution information, commentary supply information, and viewing reception information is then managed. This allows the viewer to enjoy the information being distributed along with their preferred commentator while enjoying their preferred commentary.

[0014] Note that the term "appreciation" used here means "to appreciate and understand a work," and encompasses not only the so-called eyes but also anything perceived with at least one of the five senses (possibly including a sixth sense). In other words, it is a concept that includes not only images, but also all objects that can be appreciated, such as sound, vibration, and light (light source). Also, here and in the following explanations, "distribution" includes all methods of distributing information other than through physical intermediaries, and therefore necessarily includes all methods of distributing information via a network.

[0015] In addition, as an information distribution system according to a second aspect, in the first aspect, the viewing information distribution unit may include video information in the viewing information.

[0016] In this case, since the viewing information includes video information, the viewing information can be distributed. Therefore, it functions to include so-called television broadcasting stations that distribute video, and distribution stations and broadcasting stations in online distribution media, etc. This allows viewers to watch the information being distributed, i.e., the distributed video, together with their favorite commentators while enjoying their favorite commentary.

[0017] In addition, as an information distribution system according to a third aspect, in the first aspect, the commentary information supply unit may be capable of supplying a plurality of pieces of commentary information by a plurality of commentators who are mutually individual as the opinions.

[0018] In this case, in providing commentary information, it is possible to provide a plurality of commentary information by a plurality of mutually individual commentators as their views, which increases the range of choices available to viewers and makes it easier for them to enjoy commentary that suits their preferences.

[0019] Furthermore, as an information distribution system relating to the fourth aspect, in the first aspect, when receiving the viewing information, the viewer may be able to select and receive at least one of the commentary information as viewing information of their choice.

[0020] In this case, when receiving viewing information, the viewer can select and receive at least one of the commentary information as viewing information of his / her preference, which makes it easier for the viewer to enjoy commentary that suits his / her preference.

[0021] In addition, as an information distribution system according to a fifth aspect, in the first aspect, the three-way information management unit may have a distribution information management function for managing the viewing information to be distributed.

[0022] In this case, viewing information is managed in a three-way information management, which facilitates management so that viewers can view appropriate viewing information.

[0023] Also, as an information distribution system according to the sixth aspect, in the fifth aspect, the three-way information management unit may have a distribution information acquisition unit that acquires the viewing information in order to perform part of the distribution information management function.

[0024] In this case, by acquiring viewing information in three-way information management, the viewing information can be managed, and it becomes easier to manage the viewing information so that viewers can view appropriate viewing information.

[0025] Also, as an information distribution system according to the seventh aspect, in the fifth aspect, the three-way information management unit may have a distribution information notification unit that notifies the viewing information in order to perform part of the distribution information management function.

[0026] In this case, in three-way information management, by announcing viewing information, it is possible to share information with other parties, making it easier to manage viewing information and making it easier to manage viewing information so that viewers can view appropriate viewing information.

[0027] In addition, as an information distribution system according to an eighth aspect, in the first aspect, the three-way information management unit may have a commentator management function for managing collaboration with related commentators.

[0028] In this case, the three-way information management manages cooperation with related commentators, making it easier to manage the information being distributed so that viewers can enjoy the commentary of their choice while watching it.

[0029] Also, as an information distribution system relating to the ninth aspect, in the eighth aspect, the three-way information management unit may have a commentator registration unit that registers commentator information to perform part of the commentator management function.

[0030] In this case, by registering commentator information in three-way information management, cooperation with related commentators can be managed appropriately, making it easier to manage so that viewers can enjoy the commentary that suits their preferences.

[0031] Also, as an information distribution system relating to the 10th aspect, in the 8th aspect, the three-way information management unit may have a commentator notification unit that notifies commentator information in order to perform part of the commentator management function.

[0032] In this case, in three-way information management, by announcing commentator information, it is possible to share information with other parties, making it easier to promote collaboration with commentators, making it easier to manage commentator information, and making it easier to manage so that viewers can watch appropriate viewing information.

[0033] Also, as an information distribution system relating to the 11th aspect, in the first aspect, the three-way information management unit may have a viewer management function that manages collaboration with viewers who wish to watch with commentary that suits their preferences.

[0034] In this case, the three-way information management manages cooperation with viewers who wish to watch with commentary of their choice, making it easier to manage so that viewers can enjoy their preferred commentary while watching.

[0035] Also, as an information distribution system relating to the 12th aspect, in the 11th aspect, the three-way information management unit may have a viewer registration unit that registers viewer information in order to perform part of the viewer management function.

[0036] In this case, by registering viewer information in three-way information management, cooperation with related viewers can be managed appropriately, making it easier to manage the information so that viewers can enjoy the commentary they prefer while watching.

[0037] Also, as an information distribution system relating to the 13th aspect, in the 11th aspect, the three-party information management unit may have a billing processing unit that processes viewer billing information to perform part of the viewer management function.

[0038] In this case, by processing viewer billing information in three-way information management, it is possible to increase the convenience of viewers' use of the system, while also enabling proper coordination between those involved in system operation and viewers, making it easier to manage the system so that viewers can enjoy their preferred commentary while watching.

[0039] Also, as an information distribution system according to the fourteenth aspect, in the first aspect, the three-party information management unit may have a matching function for promoting cooperation among at least three parties: a party responsible for the viewing distribution information, a party responsible for the commentary supply information, and a party responsible for the viewing and receiving information.

[0040] In this case, the tripartite information management has a matching function for promoting cooperation among at least three parties: a party responsible for viewing distribution information, a party responsible for providing commentary information, and a party responsible for viewing and receiving information. By smoothly promoting cooperation among the three parties, the operations of each party can be properly managed, making it easier to manage the information so that viewers can enjoy the commentary of their choice while watching.

[0041] In addition, as an information distribution system according to a fifteenth aspect, in the fourteenth aspect, the three-way information management unit may have a matching unit for taking on part of the matching function.

[0042] In this case, having a matching department in the three-way information management makes it easier to promote collaboration between the three parties, and by allowing each of the three parties to operate appropriately, it becomes easier to manage the system so that viewers can enjoy the commentary that suits their preferences.

[0043] Furthermore, as an information distribution system relating to the 16th aspect, in the first aspect, it may further include a commentary information linked distribution unit that distributes commentary linked distribution information that links the viewing distribution information and the commentary supply information.

[0044] In this case, by further providing a commentary information linking distribution section that distributes commentary linked distribution information that links the viewing distribution information and the commentary supply information, viewers can easily receive distribution in which the viewing distribution information and the commentary supply information are linked, and management can be made easier so that viewers can easily watch while enjoying commentary of their choice, sometimes together with their favorite commentators.

[0045] Also, as an information distribution system according to the seventeenth aspect, in the sixteenth aspect, the commentary information collaborative distribution unit may have a commentary information collaborative management function that manages the distribution of the commentary collaborative distribution information.

[0046] In this case, in the case of the linked commentary information distribution, by having a linked commentary information management function that manages the distribution of linked commentary information, it becomes easier to proceed with the distribution of the linked commentary information, and it becomes easier to manage so that viewers can enjoy the commentary of their choice and watch it together with their favorite commentators.

[0047] Also, as an information distribution system relating to the 18th aspect, in the 17th aspect, the commentary information linkage distribution unit may have a commentary information linkage management unit for performing part of the commentary information linkage management function.

[0048] In this case, in the case of the linked commentary information distribution, having a linked commentary information management unit makes it easier to manage the distribution of linked commentary distribution information, making it easier for viewers to enjoy the commentary of their choice and to watch with the commentator of their choice.

[0049] Also, as an information distribution system relating to the 19th aspect, in the 18th aspect, the commentary information linkage management unit may have a commentary linkage viewing information distribution function that distributes the commentary linkage distribution information as the selective viewing information.

[0050] In this case, by having the commentary linked viewing information distribution function in the commentary information linkage management unit, it becomes easier to proceed with the distribution of viewing information in the same or similar environment as the commentator to the viewer as selective viewing information, thereby making it easier to manage so that the viewer can enjoy commentary of their choice while also being able to view viewing information in the same or similar environment as the commentator of their choice.

[0051] Also, as an information distribution system relating to the 20th aspect, in the 19th aspect, the commentary information linkage management unit may have a commentary linkage viewing information notification unit for performing part of the commentary linkage viewing information distribution function.

[0052] In this case, by having a commentary-linked viewing information notification unit, it becomes easier to distribute viewing information in the same or similar environment to commentators and viewers, and it becomes easier to manage so that viewers can enjoy commentary of their choice and, moreover, can watch together with commentators of their choice.

[0053] Also, as an information distribution system relating to the 21st aspect, in the 16th aspect, the three-way information management unit may have a commentary viewing linked distribution adjustment function for linking the commentary information linked distribution unit to the viewing information receiving unit.

[0054] In this case, the three-way information management unit has a commentary viewing linked distribution adjustment function, which makes it easier to manage three-way information when using commentary linked distribution information as selective viewing information to distribute viewing information in the same or similar environment to viewers, thereby making it easier to manage adjustments that allow viewers to enjoy commentary of their choice while also easily viewing viewing information in the same or similar environment as their preferred commentator.

[0055] Also, as an information distribution system relating to the 22nd aspect, in the 21st aspect, the three-way information management unit may have a commentary viewing linked distribution adjustment unit for performing part of the commentary viewing linked distribution adjustment function.

[0056] In this case, by having a commentary viewing linked distribution adjustment unit, the three-way information management unit can easily manage three-way information when using commentary linked distribution information as selective viewing information to distribute viewing information in the same or similar environment to viewers as the commentator, making it even easier to manage adjustments that allow viewers to enjoy commentary of their choice while also easily viewing viewing information in the same or similar environment as their preferred commentator.

[0057] In addition, the information distribution system according to the 26th aspect includes a viewing information distribution unit that distributes viewing information to be viewed by a viewer, a linked viewing information supply unit that supplies one or more pieces of linked viewing information that can be viewed in conjunction with the viewing information, a viewing information receiving unit that receives at least one or more pieces of linked viewing information as selective viewing information, and a three-party information management unit that manages linkage information for linking at least three parties: the viewing distribution information distributed from the viewing information distribution unit, the linked viewing information supplied from the linked viewing information supply unit, and the viewing reception information received by the viewing information receiving unit.

[0058] In addition, the information distribution method of the 27th aspect, which corresponds to the 26th aspect, includes a viewing information distribution process for distributing viewing information to be viewed by a viewer, a linked viewing information supply process for supplying one or more pieces of linked viewing information that can be viewed in conjunction with the viewing information, a viewing information receiving process for receiving at least one or more pieces of linked viewing information as selective viewing information, and a three-party information management process for managing linkage information for linking at least three parties: the viewing distribution information distributed in the viewing information distribution unit process, the linked viewing information supplied in the linked viewing information supply process, and the viewing reception information received in the viewing information receiving process.

[0059] These information distribution systems or information distribution methods distribute viewing information that is the target of viewing by a viewer, supply one or more pieces of linked viewing information that can be viewed in conjunction with the viewing information, receive at least one or more pieces of linked viewing information as selective viewing information, and manage link information for linking at least three of the distributed viewing distribution information, the supplied linked viewing information, and the received viewing reception information. As a result, a viewer can select and receive linked viewing information of their preferred content that they would like to view, allowing them to view it together with the content of the program being distributed. [Effects of the Invention]

[0060] According to each aspect of the present invention, a viewer can view information being distributed together with a commentator of his / her choice while enjoying commentary of his / her choice. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0061] [Figure 1] 1 is an explanatory diagram of overall functional blocks that serves as both a conceptual system configuration example and an outline of the overall system configuration example of an "information distribution system" according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram of functional blocks that serves as both a conceptual configuration example of the "three-party information management unit" in FIG. 1 and an example of the system configuration. [Figure 3] This is an explanatory diagram of an image schematic that schematically explains the state of the parties involved from pre-processing to audience recruitment when explaining the overall operation sequence of the system shown in the functional blocks of Figures 1 and 2 in parts. [Figure 4] 4 is a schematic explanatory diagram similar to FIG. 3 showing the state of the people involved in the live distribution. [Figure 5] 3 is an overall sequence showing the overall operation of the system shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. [Figure 6] 6 is a pre-processing sequence showing the operation of the pre-processing corresponding to a part of FIG. 5. [Figure 7] 7 is a viewer recruitment sequence showing the same operation as in FIG. 6. [Figure 8]8 is a live distribution sequence showing the same operation as in FIGS. 6 and 7. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0062] The inventive concepts are described more fully below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which specific embodiments of the inventive concepts are shown. However, the inventive concepts may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided as examples so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the inventive concepts to those skilled in the art. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout the description.

[0063] Below, we will explain in order: [1. Conceptual system configuration example], [2. Overall system configuration example with concrete examples], [3. Detailed configuration and operation examples of each part], [4. Examples of modified examples and applications], and [5. Summary].

[0064] [1. Conceptual system configuration example] FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram of the overall functional blocks that serves as both a conceptual system configuration example and an overall system configuration example of an "information distribution system" according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0065] As shown in the figure, this information distribution system 1 has, as its basic and conceptual configuration, a viewing information distribution unit 10 [function / process] A that distributes viewing information to be viewed by viewers, a commentary information supply unit 20 [function / process] B that supplies one or more pieces of commentary information by commentators who provide their views on the viewing information in real time, a viewing information receiving unit 30 [function / process] C that receives at least one or more pieces of commentary information as selective viewing information, and a three-party information management unit 40 [function / process] D that manages coordination information for coordination among at least three parties: viewing distribution information distributed from a broadcasting station or the like by the viewing information distribution unit 10 [function / process] A, commentary supply information supplied from the commentary information supply unit 20 [function / process] B, and viewing reception information received by viewers at the viewing information receiving unit 30 [function / process] C.

[0066] Here, the information distribution system 1 has, for example, an "information distribution function" functionally, but from a hardware perspective, the part that executes that function is part of the hardware configuration within the information distribution system 1, and can be called an "information distribution system," an "information distribution device," an "information distribution unit," etc. On the other hand, from an algorithmic perspective, the part that executes that function is part of a process within the overall algorithm, and can be called an "information distribution process." For this reason, if these were to be expressed collectively, it might be appropriate to express (describe) each part as "~function (device / unit / process)," etc., but in the following explanation, for simplicity, we will stick to the expression (description) of the hardware-based "system" (or other "device," "unit," etc.).

[0067] In this case, viewing information to be viewed by the viewer is distributed, and commentary information is generated and provided by a commentator who expresses his or her views on the distributed viewing information. At least one of the commentary information is received as selective viewing information. Linkage information between the viewing distribution information, commentary supply information, and viewing reception information is then managed. This allows the viewer to enjoy the information being distributed along with their preferred commentator while enjoying their preferred commentary.

[0068] Note that here, "appreciation" is used, not "viewing," meaning "to appreciate and understand a work," and encompasses everything that can be perceived not only through the eyes, but through at least one of the five senses (possibly including a sixth sense). In other words, it is a concept that includes not only images, but also all objects that can be appreciated, such as sound, vibration, and light (light source).

[0069] 1 further includes a commentary information linked distribution unit 50 [function / step] E that distributes commentary linked distribution information that links viewing distribution information and commentary supply information. This makes it easier for viewers to receive distribution in which viewing distribution information and commentary supply information are linked, and makes it easier to manage so that viewers can enjoy commentary of their choice, sometimes together with their favorite commentators, and enjoy viewing.

[0070] [2. Example of overall system configuration with concrete example] As mentioned above, Fig. 1 also serves as an explanatory diagram of the overall functional blocks of an example of the overall system configuration according to a specific example. In this regard, in this embodiment, the viewing information distribution unit 10 includes video information in the viewing information as a specific example. In this case, since the viewing information includes video information in the viewing information distribution, the video information can be distributed.

[0071] For this reason, it functions to include so-called television broadcasting stations that distribute video, as well as distribution stations and broadcasting stations in online distribution media, etc. Therefore, in the following explanation of a specific example, the viewing information distribution unit 10 will be represented by the broadcasting station 10. In this case, a viewer can watch the information being distributed, that is, specifically the distributed video, together with a commentator of their choice while enjoying their preferred commentary.

[0072] In addition, in this embodiment, the commentary information supply unit 20 can supply, as a specific example, multiple commentary information by multiple commentators who are mutually independent as their opinions. This broadens the range of choices available to viewers, making it easier for them to enjoy commentary that suits their preferences. In this case, the commentator may not actually be a single person, but may be a group (organization) or a responsible company, etc., but in the following explanation, the commentator 20 will be used as a representative when describing specific examples.

[0073] Furthermore, in this embodiment, as a specific example, the viewing information receiving unit 30 allows a viewer to select and receive at least one of the commentary information as viewing information of his / her preference. This makes it easier for the viewer to enjoy commentary of his / her preference. Note that in the case of this viewer, the viewer may not be an individual, but may be a member of a group (organization) that has made a voluntary contract, or may be an employee of a company or the like that has made a contract as part of a company welfare program. However, in the following explanation of a specific example, the viewer 30 will be used as a representative.

[0074] In this embodiment, the commentary linked distribution information that links the viewing distribution information and the commentary supply information is distributed as a specific example in the commentary information linked distribution unit 50. This makes it easier for viewers to receive distribution in which the viewing distribution information and the commentary supply information are linked, and it becomes easier to manage so that viewers can enjoy commentary of their choice, sometimes together with their favorite commentators, and enjoy the content more easily.

[0075] In this case, in the case of commentary information collaborative distribution, having a commentary information collaborative management function that manages the distribution of commentary collaborative distribution information makes it easier to proceed with the distribution of commentary collaborative distribution information, and having a commentary information collaborative management unit (not shown) that takes on part of the commentary information collaborative management function makes it easier to manage the distribution of commentary collaborative distribution information, making it easier for viewers to enjoy commentary of their choice and to watch with their favorite commentators.

[0076] Furthermore, by having a commentary linked viewing information distribution function in the commentary information linkage management unit, it becomes easier to distribute viewing information in the same or similar environment as the commentator to viewers as selective viewing information, and furthermore, by having a commentary linked viewing information notification unit (not shown) that plays a part in the commentary linked viewing information distribution function, it becomes easier to distribute viewing information in the same or similar environment to the commentator and viewers, making it easier to manage so that viewers can enjoy commentary of their choice and even watch with their favorite commentators.

[0077] In the following, when describing a specific example of the commentary information linking and distributing unit 50, it will be represented by a web conferencing system. For example, a typical web conferencing system is ZOOM (a registered trademark of Zoom Video Communications, Inc.), and while the video to be viewed is distributed and viewed, a commentator of the viewer's preference who is also participating in the ZOOM conference provides commentary while illustrating (distributing) the commentary content on the ZOOM screen. This allows the viewer to enjoy the commentary of their choice while watching the video to be viewed of their choice together with the commentator of their choice, and makes it easier to manage the viewing experience.

[0078] Next, FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram of functional blocks that serves as both a conceptual configuration example of the "three-party information management unit" in FIG. 1 and an example of the system configuration.

[0079] Conceptually, the three-party information management unit 40 manages linkage information for linking at least three parties: the viewing distribution information to be distributed, the commentary supply information to be supplied, and the viewing reception information to be received, as described above in Fig. 1. A specific representative configuration example of this three-party information management unit 40 is shown in Fig. 2.

[0080] As shown in Fig. 2, the three-party information management unit 40 functionally comprises a broadcast (distribution) information management function 41, a commentator management function 42, a viewer management function 43, a program (broadcast station) / commentator / viewer matching function 44, and a web conference generation / transmission (commentary viewing collaborative distribution adjustment) function 45. Here, the parentheses indicate expressions that correspond to the conceptually extensible range.

[0081] Specific components of the hardware or algorithm include a broadcast (distribution) information acquisition unit 411 and a broadcast (distribution) information display (notification) unit 412 which play a part in the broadcast (distribution) information management function 41, a commentator registration unit 421 and a commentator display (notification) unit 422 which play a part in the commentator management function 42, a viewer registration unit 431 and a (viewer) billing processing unit 432 which play a part in the viewer management function 43, a (three-way) matching unit 44 which plays a part in the program (broadcast station) / commentator / viewer matching function, and a web conference generation / transmission (commentary viewing linked distribution adjustment) unit 45 which plays a part in the web conference generation / transmission (commentary viewing linked distribution adjustment) function.

[0082] In these cases, the three-way information management unit 40 manages broadcast (viewing and distribution) information, which facilitates management so that viewers can view appropriate viewing information. In addition, in this case, by announcing viewing information in three-way information management, it is possible to share information with other parties, making it easier to manage viewing information, and it also facilitates management so that viewers can view appropriate viewing information.

[0083] In this case, the three-way information management manages the link with the related commentators, making it easier to manage the information being distributed so that viewers can enjoy their preferred commentary while watching. In this case, the three-way information management registers the commentator information so that the link with the related commentators can be properly managed, making it easier to manage the information so that viewers can enjoy their preferred commentary while watching.

[0084] In this case, in three-way information management, by announcing commentator information, it is possible to share information with other parties, making it easier to promote collaboration with commentators, making it easier to manage commentator information, and making it easier to manage so that viewers can watch appropriate viewing information.

[0085] In this case, the three-way information management manages cooperation with viewers who wish to watch with commentary of their choice, making it easier to manage so that viewers can enjoy commentary of their choice while watching. In this case, the three-way information management registers viewer information, making it easier to manage cooperation with related viewers so that viewers can enjoy commentary of their choice while watching.

[0086] In addition, in this case, by processing viewer billing information in three-party information management, it is possible to increase the convenience of viewers' use of the system, while also enabling proper coordination between those involved in system operation and viewers, making it easier to manage the system so that viewers can enjoy their preferred commentary while watching.

[0087] In addition, in this case, in the tripartite information management, there is a matching function to facilitate cooperation between at least three parties: the program (responsible for viewing distribution information), the commentator (responsible for commentary supply information), and the viewer (responsible for viewing reception information), and by having a matching department that plays a part in this, cooperation between the three parties can be smoothly promoted, and the operations of each of the three parties can be appropriately promoted, making it easier to manage the information so that viewers can enjoy watching while listening to commentary that suits their preferences.

[0088] Furthermore, in this case, in three-way information management, by having a commentary viewing linked distribution adjustment function for linking the commentary information linked distribution unit with the viewing information receiving unit, and further having a commentary viewing linked distribution adjustment unit that plays a part in this, it becomes easier to manage three-way information when using commentary linked distribution information as selective viewing information and distributing viewing information in the same or similar environment to the commentator to viewers, and this makes it even easier to manage adjustments that allow viewers to enjoy commentary of their choice while also making it easier to watch viewing information in the same or similar environment as their preferred commentator.

[0089] [3. Detailed configuration and operation examples for each part] Next, Figures 3 and 4 are explanatory diagrams of conceptual diagrams assuming specific operation examples when operating the system shown in Figures 1 and 2. Also, corresponding to Figures 3 and 4, Figure 5 is an explanatory diagram of the operation sequence of the entire operation example, and Figures 6 to 8 are explanatory diagrams of the operation sequence of each part shown by dividing and enlarging Figure 5.

[0090] The following explains a detailed example. The service concept and system overview for this detailed example are as follows:

[0091] <Service concept> Until now, viewers of live sports TV programs provided by "television broadcasting stations, online distribution media, etc. (hereinafter referred to as "media")" have had no choice but to watch programs with commentary by commentators or guests predetermined by the media (although in some cases, it is possible to select and watch commentary programs provided by individual broadcasters using mechanisms such as registration on YouTube (a registered trademark of Google LLC)).

[0092] Based on the concept of "going forward, you can decide who you watch sports with," the service provider will provide a system through a new portal site that will allow broadcasters, including former stars, celebrities with enthusiastic supporters, and commentators with unique perspectives, to plan and distribute their own commentary programs.

[0093] With this service, viewers will be able to purchase tickets to commentary programs from their favorite broadcasters from among the various broadcasters aggregated on this portal site, and enjoy their preferred commentary while watching sports broadcasts and other TV programs provided by the media along with the broadcaster.

[0094] <System Overview> The portal site obtains program information for television programs and other programs that are the subject of commentary programs from broadcasting stations and creates a list of them.

[0095] By registering as a distributor in advance on the portal site, distributors can select from the target TV program information You can create your own streaming program that you plan and explain (service overview, start date and time, viewing fee, number of viewers, etc.).

[0096] Viewers can purchase commentary programs by their favorite broadcasters in advance and then listen to (watch) the purchased commentary programs.

[0097] The commentary program by the broadcaster will be distributed via a web conferencing system (such as Zoom).

[0098] 3 and 4, for example, when there is a live broadcast of a professional baseball game A vs. B in which professional baseball teams A and B face off against each other, a commentator (distributor) A who plans and distributes a commentary program A that is biased towards team A (and which fans of team A gather to watch and distribute) applies to a portal site in the three-party information management unit 40 to open the commentary program A in order to distribute the commentary program A in conjunction with the live broadcast. In response to this, a viewer A, who is also a fan of team A, wishes to purchase a program ticket for the commentary program A in order to enjoy the live broadcast of the professional baseball game A vs. B.

[0099] Similar to the above commentary program A, distributor B of original commentary program B applies to a portal site to open commentary program B in order to distribute commentary program B in conjunction with the live broadcast. Similarly, distributor C of commentary program C and subsequent distributors will gather each commentary program on the portal site, and any viewer b, viewer c, etc. will wish to purchase program tickets for their preferred commentary program B, commentary program C, etc.

[0100] In accordance with the detailed example described above and with reference to FIGS. 3, 5 and 6, in the operation sequence for starting the first half, the program is first opened as a pre-processing step 1.

[0101] Specifically, first, broadcast (program, distribution) information is acquired by a broadcast (distribution) information acquisition unit 411, which is part of the broadcast (distribution) information management function 41 (see Figures 1 and 2), within a portal site prepared by the three-party information management unit 40, and is then displayed (notified: can be in the form of a list or printed) by a broadcast (broadcast, distribution) information display (notification) unit 412.

[0102] The flow at this time is the program information request [a←d] shown in Figure 6. Here, [a←d] indicates the flow in the sense of the direction from the three-way information management unit 40 to the broadcast station 10. Then, in response to the program information request [a←d], the program information is acquired [a→d]. The same applies below to the web conference system 50, the commentator 20, the viewer 30, etc.

[0103] Next, for example, commentator A (hereinafter simply referred to as "distributor") A, who wishes to create his or her own commentary program A, creates commentary program A. Specifically, first, in order to obtain a program list from the portal site of tripartite information management unit 40, he or she sends a program list request to tripartite information management unit 40 [d←b], and then obtains the program list in response [d→b]. Next, distributor A selects a program for which he or she will create his or her own commentary program A from the obtained program list, and transmits an entry to secure an entry for the selected commentary program A [d←b], and then secures the entry acceptance in response [d→b].

[0104] In this case, within the three-party information management unit 40 (see Figures 1 and 2), the commentator registration unit 421, which is part of the commentator management function 42, registers commentator A (actually, information on commentary program A) in response to an entry from distributor A, and the commentator display (notification) unit 422 displays (notifies: can be in the form of a list or printed).

[0105] When a predetermined number of entered commentary programs are stored in the portal site of the tripartite information management part 40, the part then solicits viewers to watch each of the stored scheduled programs, and starts selling corresponding program tickets.

[0106] 3, 5 and 7, in the operation sequence up to the end of the first half, program tickets are sold to recruit viewers.

[0107] Here, a viewer who wants to enter a commentary program of his / her choice purchases a program ticket for that commentary program.

[0108] Specifically, first, prior to selecting a commentary program of his / her choice, the viewer transmits a program list request to the trilateral information management unit 40 [d←c] to obtain a program list from the portal site of the trilateral information management unit 40, and the program list is obtained in response [d→c]. Next, the viewer selects a program of his / her choice from the obtained program list, and then, prior to selecting a commentator of his / her choice, transmits a commentator list request [d←c] to obtain a commentator list from the portal site, and the commentator list is obtained in response [d→c].

[0109] Once a viewer has decided on the commentary program and commentator of their choice that they wish to enter, they request a program / commentator setting to set that program and commentator [d←c], and the corresponding program / commentary registration is secured [d→c].

[0110] Next, to proceed with the payment, a payment request is sent [d←c], the corresponding payment information is received [d→c], the necessary payment information is entered and sent [d←c], and the payment is then completed [d→c].

[0111] In the above-mentioned case, within the three-party information management unit 40 (see Figures 1 and 2), the viewer registration unit 431, which is part of the viewer management function 43, registers the viewer (viewer information) in response to the viewer's entry, and the billing processing unit 432 performs billing processing (actually from payment request to payment completion), completing all processing before the day of the live performance and waiting for the day of the live performance.

[0112] On the day of the live broadcast, the actual broadcasting of the program and listening (viewing) of the program will proceed. Before explaining the preparations before the live broadcast, we will first explain how the live broadcast will be carried out.

[0113] For example, referring to Figures 4, 5 and 8, in order to receive the live broadcast, commentator 20 receives the start of live distribution [a→b] and distributes commentary to Web conferencing system 50 in accordance with the live broadcast [e←b].

[0114] Meanwhile, the viewer 30 also receives the start of the live broadcast [a→c] in order to receive the live broadcast, and receives commentary from the web conferencing system 50 in conjunction with the live broadcast [e→c].

[0115] If the viewer 30 does not wish to be present (jointly participate) in the same environment as the commentator 20 and only wishes to listen to the commentary, then the above-mentioned setup is sufficient. However, if the viewer 30 wishes to be present (jointly participate) in the same environment and, for example, to ask the commentator 20 questions in real time, then that environment must be prepared before the live broadcast.

[0116] In this case, within the three-party information management unit 40 (see Figures 1 and 2), the commentator 20 is registered by the commentator registration unit 421, which is part of the commentator management function 42, and the viewer 30 [viewing information receiving unit C] is registered by the viewer registration unit 431, which is part of the viewer management function 43.

[0117] 4, 5, and 8, for example, in order to prepare for distribution to coincide with the start of the live broadcast, a conference URL and broadcast (distribution) information are transmitted from the tripartite information management unit 40 to the commentator 20 [d→c], and a conference URL and broadcast (distribution) information are also transmitted from the tripartite information management unit 40 to the viewer 30 [viewing information receiving unit C] [d→c]. Note that although the term "conference URL transmission" is used here to match the illustration, any transmission of an invitation to a conference (conference invitation transmission) may be used, and other communication means may also be used, such as a QR code introduction or page introduction by email, or other internet communication means (LINE: a trademark of Yahoo! Japan Corporation, BAND, etc.) (the same applies to the following explanation).

[0118] Then, a commentator 20 who is requested to participate (attend, etc.) in the Web conference system 50 or who requests to participate (attend, etc.) enters (attends, participates) the Web conference system 50 [e←b], and similarly, a viewer 30 who requests to participate (attends, etc.) in the Web conference system 50 also enters (attends, participates) the Web conference system 50 [e←c].

[0119] In the above-mentioned case, within the three-party information management unit 40 (see Figures 1 and 2), all of the following functions work together in cooperation: a broadcast (distribution) information management function 41 that works in cooperation with the broadcast station 10; a commentator management function 42 that works in cooperation with the commentator 20; a viewer management function 43 that works in cooperation with the viewer 30; a matching function 44 that facilitates cooperation between these three functions; and a web conference generation / transmission (commentary viewing and distribution coordination) function 45 that works in cooperation with the web conference system 50.

[0120] This makes it easier to manage three-way information when using commentary-linked distribution information as selective viewing information to distribute viewing information in the same or similar environment to viewers as the commentator, making it easier for viewers to enjoy commentary of their choice while also viewing viewing information in the same or similar environment as their favorite commentator, making it easier to manage this information and also enabling them to obtain an environment in which they can be present (jointly participate) in the same environment and, for example, ask questions to the commentator in real time.

[0121] [4. Examples of Modifications and Applications] In the examples described above with reference to Figures 4, 5 and 8, it was explained that a conference URL was used to send an invitation to a conference (conference invitation sending) before the start of the live broadcast on the day of the live distribution, as shown in the illustrations. However, as long as the conference invitation is sent, other communication means may be used, such as a QR introduction or page introduction via email, or other online communication means (LINE, BAND, etc.).

[0122] Furthermore, for example, commercial television broadcasting stations are classified into four types: key stations, quasi-key stations, local stations, and independent stations, each of which differs in terms of broadcast content and broadcasting conditions, but it is preferable that the three-party information management unit 40 be able to appropriately manage cooperation between the broadcasting station (viewing information distribution unit) 10, the commentator (commentary information supply unit) 20, and the viewer (viewing information receiving unit) 30, thereby making it easier to manage so that the viewer (viewing information receiving unit) 30 can enjoy commentary of their choice while watching.

[0123] In addition, the category of "broadcasting stations (viewing information distribution departments) 10" includes not only entities generally recognized as television stations, etc., as mentioned above, but also independent stations operated by individuals, as well as individual distributors such as so-called "YouTubers," who earn advertising revenue by posting videos on YouTube (a registered trademark of Google LLC), an online video sharing service.

[0124] Also, for example, if there is a live broadcast of the aforementioned professional baseball game AxB, commentator (distributor) A will distribute commentary program A in accordance with the live broadcast, but in such a case, since the supply routes for the live broadcast and commentary program A are different, there may be a difference in the reception timing between the images broadcast and received depending on, for example, the congestion situation on the Internet. In preparation for such a case, it is preferable to store (stock) the image information for each program so that they can be broadcast in accordance with the broadcast timing on the Internet.

[0125] Or, when it comes to audio information and image information, image information requires more network transmission capacity, so even within the same live broadcast, there may be a discrepancy between the timing of receiving the audio and video. Or, even if such network conditions are not present, commentary program A may simply be broadcast later than the live broadcast. In these cases, it is preferable to have the ability (equipment, etc.) to store (stock) information, whether it is audio or image.

[0126] Incidentally, the information that viewers want to view in conjunction with a program being distributed varies greatly depending on the viewer, and in addition to commentary that they like, there is also linked viewing information that they like to view.

[0127] For example, if the viewing information distributed to viewers as a viewing target is a broadcast of an anime, the voice of the character can be replaced with a voice of the viewer's choice by processing it in the same way as dubbing, where the lines of the actors in a foreign language broadcast movie are translated into Japanese. In this case, by erasing the audio information of the original voice actor and supplying audio information to replace the audio of the original voice actor as linked viewing information that can be viewed in conjunction with the viewing information, the voice of the favorite character in the broadcast anime can be replaced with the voice of the voice actor of the viewer's choice.

[0128] Therefore, the information distribution function [system / method] 1 proposed here distributes viewing information that viewers are interested in viewing, supplies one or more pieces of linked viewing information that can be viewed in conjunction with the viewing information, receives at least one or more pieces of linked viewing information as selective viewing information, and manages linking information for linking at least three parties: the distributed viewing distribution information, the supplied linked viewing information, and the received viewing reception information.By doing so, viewers can select and receive linked viewing information of their preferred content, allowing them to watch the content of the program being distributed along with the content of the program being distributed.

[0129] Of course, the information that can be replaced is not limited to audio information; for example, images generated by AI can be used to replace characters and backgrounds in animated images, and various other uses will become possible, making it possible to significantly change (improve) the way programs and other content are enjoyed.

[0130] [5. Summary] As described above, according to each aspect of the present invention, first, you can watch a currently distributed program together with your favorite commentator while enjoying your favorite commentary, and second, you can watch linked viewing information of your favorite content together with the content of the currently distributed program.

[0131] The inventive concept has been described primarily with reference to certain embodiments, however, as will be readily understood by those skilled in the art, embodiments other than those described above are equally possible within the scope of the inventive concept as defined by the appended claims. [Industrial Applicability]

[0132] The information distribution system, information distribution method, program, and program storage medium according to each aspect of the present invention relate to a system in the technical field that distributes related information associated with a program being distributed in synchronization with the program distribution, and in that sense utilizes the laws of nature, has industrial value in that hardware is operated under program control, and has wide industrial applicability in these technical fields. [Explanation of symbols]

[0133] 1. Information distribution system 10. Viewing Information Distribution Department 20. Commentary Information Supply Department 30 Viewing Information Receiving Department 40 Tripartite Information Management Department 41 Broadcast (distribution) information management function 42 Commentator management function 43 Viewer management function 44 Program (Broadcast Station) / Commentator / Viewer Matching Function 45 Web conference generation / transmission (commentary viewing and distribution coordination) function 50 Commentary Information Collaboration and Distribution Department 411 Broadcast (Distribution) Information Acquisition Unit 412 Broadcast (distribution) information display (announcement) section 421 Commentator Registration Department 422 Commentator Display (Announcement) Section 431 Viewer Registration Department 432 (Viewer) billing processing unit 432

Claims

1. a viewing information distribution unit that distributes viewing information that is a viewing target for a viewer; a commentary information supply unit that supplies one or more commentary pieces of information by commentators who express opinions on the appreciation information; a viewing information receiving unit that receives at least one of the commentary information as selective viewing information; a three-party information management unit that manages linkage information for linking at least three parties: viewing distribution information distributed from the viewing information distribution unit, commentary supply information supplied from the commentary information supply unit, and viewing reception information received by the viewing information receiving unit; An information distribution system comprising:

2. the viewing information distribution unit includes video information in the viewing information; 2. The information distribution system according to claim 1.

3. The commentary information supply unit is capable of supplying a plurality of commentary information by a plurality of commentators who are mutually individual as the opinions.

2. The information distribution system according to claim 1.

4. In receiving the viewing information, the viewer can select and receive at least one of the commentary information as the viewing information of his / her choice.

2. The information distribution system according to claim 1.

5. the three-party information management unit has a distribution information management function for managing the viewing information to be distributed; 2. The information distribution system according to claim 1.

6. the three-party information management unit includes a distribution information acquisition unit that acquires the viewing information in order to perform part of the distribution information management function; 6. The information distribution system according to claim 5.

7. the three-party information management unit has a distribution information notification unit that notifies the viewing information in order to take part in the distribution information management function; 6. The information distribution system according to claim 5.

8. The three-way information management unit has a commentator management function for managing collaboration with related commentators.

2. The information distribution system according to claim 1.

9. The three-party information management unit has a commentator registration unit that registers commentator information in order to take on part of the commentator management function.

9. The information distribution system according to claim 8.

10. The three-party information management unit has a commentator notification unit that notifies commentator information in order to perform part of the commentator management function.

9. The information distribution system according to claim 8.

11. The three-way information management unit has a viewer management function for managing collaboration with viewers who wish to view content accompanied by commentary of their choice.

2. The information distribution system according to claim 1.

12. the three-way information management unit has a viewer registration unit that registers viewer information in order to take on part of the viewer management function; The information distribution system according to claim 11.

13. the three-party information management unit has a billing processing unit that processes viewer billing information in order to take on part of the viewer management function; The information distribution system according to claim 11.

14. The three-party information management unit has a matching function for promoting cooperation among at least three people in charge of the viewing distribution information, the commentary supply information, and the viewing reception information.

2. The information distribution system according to claim 1.

15. The three-party information management unit has a matching unit that performs part of the matching function.

15. The information distribution system according to claim 14.

16. a commentary information linking distribution unit that distributes commentary linking distribution information in which the viewing distribution information and the commentary supply information are linked; The information distribution system according to claim 1 , further comprising:

17. The commentary information collaborative distribution unit has a commentary information collaborative management function for managing the distribution of the commentary collaborative distribution information.

17. The information distribution system according to claim 16.

18. The commentary information linkage distribution unit has a commentary information linkage management unit that performs part of the commentary information linkage management function.

18. The information distribution system according to claim 17.

19. The commentary information linkage management unit has a commentary linkage viewing information distribution function of distributing the commentary linkage distribution information as the selective viewing information.

19. The information distribution system according to claim 18.

20. The commentary information linkage management unit has a commentary linkage viewing information notification unit for taking part in the commentary linkage viewing information distribution function.

20. The information distribution system according to claim 19.

21. The three-party information management unit has a commentary viewing linked distribution adjustment function for linking the commentary information linked distribution unit to the viewing information receiving unit.

17. The information distribution system according to claim 16.

22. The three-party information management unit has a commentary viewing linked distribution adjustment unit for taking part in the commentary viewing linked distribution adjustment function, 22. The information distribution system according to claim 21.

23. a viewing information distribution step of distributing viewing information to be viewed by viewers; a commentary information supply step of supplying one or more pieces of commentary information by a commentator who expresses an opinion on the appreciation information; a viewing information receiving step of receiving at least one of the commentary information as selective viewing information; a three-party information management step of managing link information for linking at least three parties, namely, the viewing distribution information distributed in the viewing information distribution unit step, the commentary supply information provided in the commentary information supply step, and the viewing reception information received in the viewing information receiving step; An information distribution method comprising:

24. 24. A program for causing the information distribution system according to claim 1 to execute the information distribution method according to claim 23.

25. A program storage medium storing the program according to claim 24 so as to be usable by the information distribution system according to the same claim.

26. a viewing information distribution unit that distributes viewing information that is a viewing target for a viewer; a linked viewing information supply unit that supplies one or more pieces of linked viewing information that can be viewed in conjunction with the viewing information; a viewing information receiving unit that receives at least one of the linked viewing information as selective viewing information; a three-party information management unit that manages linkage information for linking at least three parties, namely, viewing distribution information distributed from the viewing information distribution unit, linked viewing information supplied from the linked viewing information supply unit, and viewing reception information received by the viewing information reception unit; An information distribution system comprising:

27. a viewing information distribution step of distributing viewing information to be viewed by viewers; a linked viewing information supply step of supplying one or more pieces of linked viewing information that can be viewed in conjunction with the viewing information; a viewing information receiving step of receiving at least one of the linked viewing information as selective viewing information; a three-party information management step of managing linkage information for linking at least three parties, namely, the viewing distribution information distributed in the viewing information distribution unit step, the linked viewing information provided in the linked viewing information supply step, and the viewing reception information received in the viewing information receiving step; An information distribution method comprising:

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