Content providing system

Abstract

To provide a content providing system contributing to a new fan experience.SOLUTION: A content providing system 10 that provides content such as an image 71 includes a management server 13 that generates an information code 41 so as to include code ID information, distributor information, face authentication information, upload destination information, and the like that are referred to when uploading the content, and a reading terminal 12 that has a camera 61 capable of imaging the information code 41 and in which a dedicated reading application for reading the information code 41 is installed. When imaging is performed so that the content and the information code 41 are included in an imaging range by the camera 61, the reading terminal acquires image data obtained by converting the content into digital data, and uploads the acquired image data to a distribution server 11 via a communication network. The delivery server displays the uploaded content at the display location in the virtual space 25 designated by the dedicated reading application.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a content providing system. [Background technology]

[0002] In recent years, with the spread of communication networks, new fan experiences that utilize social media have been proposed. For example, Patent Document 1 proposes a system that allows viewers to simulate the act of filming by remote control, without having to go to the filming location. Such a system allows fans to interact with each other without having to go to the venue in person, lowering the barrier to the fan experience. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2024-022731 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The biggest reason fans visit live venues is the sense of being physically close to their favorite idols, and receiving autographs, illustrations, and other content at live venues is a major element of the fan experience. While the possibility of a new fan experience via a communication network is desirable in terms of realizing interaction that transcends the constraints of distance and time, the reality is that there are various challenges, such as the amount of work required by streamers, to successfully integrate the provision of created content into a new fan experience via a communication network.

[0005] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above-mentioned problems, and its main purpose is to contribute to providing a new fan experience. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The following describes means for solving the above problems.

[0007] First means: A content providing system (content providing system 10) that provides content (e.g., illustration 71) that is a character, a figure, a pattern, a color, or a combination thereof via a communication network, an information code generation unit (information code generation unit 31 of the management server 13) that generates an information code (information code 41) so as to include reference information (code ID information D1, distributor information D2, face authentication information D3, upload destination information, etc.) that is referenced when uploading the content; an imaging unit (camera 61 of the reading terminal 12) capable of imaging the information code; an upload unit (control unit 63 of the reading terminal 12) that acquires the content as digital data when the content and the information code are imaged so as to be positioned within an image capturing range of the imaging unit, and uploads the acquired content to a server unit (distribution server 11) via the communication network; Equipped with The server unit performs a process of displaying the content uploaded by the upload unit at a designated display location or a process of making the content available for download.

[0008] According to the configuration of this means, by capturing an image of the created content along with an information code, the content is uploaded to a server unit as digital data. The content uploaded to the server unit can then be displayed in a designated display location or made available for download. In particular, in this means, the information code captured when uploading content includes reference information corresponding to the upload. For example, if the reference information is used as authentication information for verifying whether the content creator and the uploader are the same person, this can prevent impersonation and operational errors, contributing to improved reliability. Furthermore, if the reference information is used as information indicating the upload destination or potential destinations, it can reduce the effort required for uploading and shorten the time from content creation to upload. In this way, building a system that uses information codes to provide created content can contribute to providing a new fan experience using a communication network.

[0009] Second means: A content providing system (content providing system 10) that provides content (e.g., illustration 71) that is a character, a figure, a pattern, a color, or a combination thereof via a communication network, an information code generation unit (information code generation unit 31 of the management server 13) that generates an information code (information code 41) so as to include reference information (code ID information D1, distributor information D2, face authentication information D3, upload destination information, etc.) that is referenced when uploading the content; an imaging unit (camera 61 of the reading terminal 12) capable of imaging the information code; an upload unit (control unit 63 of the reading terminal 12) that acquires the content as digital data when the content and the information code are imaged so as to be positioned within an image capturing range of the imaging unit, and uploads the acquired content to a server unit (distribution server 11) via the communication network; Equipped with The server unit performs processing to display the content uploaded by the upload unit at a designated display location in a virtual space (virtual space 25) formed by the server unit.

[0010] According to the configuration of this means, by capturing an image of created content together with an information code, the content is uploaded to a server unit as digital data. The content uploaded to the server unit is then displayed in a designated display location in a virtual space created by the server unit. Fans of the content creator can view the content within the virtual space. This provides a new fan experience using a communication network. In particular, in this means, the information code captured when uploading content includes reference information corresponding to the upload. For example, if the reference information is authentication information used to verify whether the content creator and the uploader are the same, this can prevent impersonation and operational errors, contributing to improved reliability. Furthermore, if the reference information is information indicating the upload destination or potential destinations, it can reduce the effort required for uploading and shorten the time from content creation to upload. In this way, building a system that uses information codes to provide created content can contribute to providing a new fan experience using a communication network.

[0011] Third means: A content providing system (content providing system 10) that provides content (e.g., illustration 71) that is a character, a figure, a pattern, a color, or a combination thereof via a communication network, an information code generation unit (information code generation unit 31 of the management server 13) that generates an information code (information code 41) so as to include reference information (code ID information D1, distributor information D2, face authentication information D3, upload destination information, etc.) that is referenced when uploading the content; an imaging unit (camera 61 of the reading terminal 12) capable of imaging the information code; an upload unit (control unit 63 of the reading terminal 12) that acquires the content as digital data when the content and the information code are imaged so as to be positioned within an image capturing range of the imaging unit, and uploads the acquired content to a server unit (distribution server 11) via the communication network; Equipped with The server unit has a setting unit that sets a distribution room (distribution room 81) in which the creator of the content and viewers can participate via the communication network, The distribution room is provided with a first display unit (live image display unit 82) that broadcasts the process of the creator creating the content, and a second display unit (download icon display unit 83) that displays a link to download the completed content when the content is uploaded by the upload unit.

[0012] According to the configuration of this means, the content creation process is broadcast in the distribution room (first display unit). By capturing an image of the completed content along with an information code, the content is uploaded to the server as digital data. Once the content is uploaded to the server, a link (e.g., a download icon or address) for downloading the content is displayed on the second display unit. In other words, fans participating in the distribution room can view the content creation process and obtain the content once it is completed. This provides a new fan experience using a communication network. In particular, this means includes reference information associated with the upload in the image of the information code captured when uploading content. For example, using the reference information as authentication information for verifying whether the content creator and the uploader are the same person can prevent impersonation and operational errors, contributing to improved reliability. Furthermore, using the reference information as information indicating the upload destination or potential destinations can reduce the effort required for uploading and shorten the time from content creation to upload. In this way, building a system that uses information codes to provide created content can contribute to providing a new fan experience using a communication network.

[0013] Fourth means: A content providing system (content providing system 10) that provides content (e.g., illustration 71) that is a character, a figure, a pattern, a color, or a combination thereof via a communication network, an information code generation unit (information code generation unit 31 of the management server 13) that generates an information code (information code 41) so as to include reference information (code ID information D1, distributor information D2, face authentication information D3, upload destination information, etc.) that is referenced when uploading the content; an imaging unit (camera 61 of the reading terminal 12) capable of imaging the information code; an upload unit (control unit 63 of the reading terminal 12) that acquires the content as digital data when the content and the information code are imaged within an imaging range of the imaging unit, and uploads the acquired content to a designated server unit (distribution server 11) via the communication network; It is equipped with:

[0014] The configuration of this means can contribute to providing a new fan experience using a communication network. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0015] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic diagram showing a content providing system according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 1A is a schematic diagram showing the data structure of an information code, and FIG. 1B is a schematic diagram showing an example of an information code. [Figure 3] 10 is a flowchart showing a procedure for providing content. [Figure 4] 10 is a flowchart showing the flow of a code reading sequence (personal authentication). [Figure 5] 10 is a flowchart showing the flow of a code reading sequence (upload). [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing a candidate selection screen displayed on the reading terminal. [Figure 7]10A is a flowchart showing an ID information confirmation process executed by the management server, and FIG. 10B is a flowchart showing an illustration reading process executed by the management server. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing a content providing system according to a second embodiment. [Figure 9] A schematic diagram showing the live streaming. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0016] First Embodiment A first embodiment of the present invention will now be described with reference to the drawings. In this embodiment, the present invention is embodied in a content providing system that provides content such as illustrations, paintings, and signs created in the real world via a communication network.

[0017] 1, the content providing system 10 includes a delivery server 11 that delivers content, and a reading terminal 12 that reads created content and uploads it to the delivery server 11. The reading terminal 12 is a smartphone on which a dedicated reading application, which will be described later, is installed.

[0018] The delivery server 11 comprises a virtual space engine 21 for forming a virtual space 25 (so-called metaverse) in which participants can create their own avatars and act freely, and a content library 22 for storing content uploaded from the reading terminal 12, etc., and displays the uploaded content in the virtual space 25. The uploaded content is stored in the content library 22 in a state linked to the participant's login ID (login ID for the virtual space).

[0019] The virtual space 25 shown in this embodiment is provided with a museum exhibiting content, and participants can operate avatars to view various content exhibited in the museum. The museum is provided with a large number of booths, and participants can register the booths they wish to use. The registered booths are linked to the participants' login IDs, allowing them to exhibit their own content stored in the content library 22 in their own booths. Specifically, the booths are set with multiple exhibition locations (display locations), and different content can be displayed in these display locations. For example, the booth 26 shown in FIG. 1 has three display locations for content: a front wall 27, a left wall 28, and a right wall 29. Participants can specify these three display locations to display content.

[0020] Content exhibition methods are classified into two categories: those that use the content provision system 10 and those that do not. First, we will explain an exhibition method that does not use the content provision system 10. In this exhibition method, the created content is first captured using a camera such as a smartphone, and the image data of the captured content is adjusted and corrected. Next, the user logs in to the virtual space 25 and registers the content in the content library 22. The user then specifies the display location in the user's booth where the content will be displayed. With this method, the image capture may not always be successful depending on the camera's orientation and position, and it is expected that adjusting and correcting the image data will take time. Furthermore, it is necessary to use a camera application, an application for adjusting and correcting the image data, and an application for using the virtual space 25, all at once, making it difficult to work efficiently. In particular, there are concerns that the workload will increase if the process of creating content and then exhibiting it is repeated.

[0021] The social media described above allows content such as illustrations created in the real world to be brought into virtual space, enabling interaction that transcends the boundaries between the real world and virtual space (virtual reality world). For example, illustrators can provide new fan experiences by distributing content via such social media. However, simply bringing content created in the real world into virtual space requires the various steps described above, making it a high hurdle. This can be an obstacle to providing new fan experiences using social media.

[0022] In the content providing system 10 shown in this embodiment, these concerns are taken into consideration and an exhibition method is realized that reduces the workload and speeds up the work. One of the features of the exhibition method by the content providing system 10 is that it uses an information code 41, which is a two-dimensional code. Below, we will provide additional explanation about the reading terminal 12 that reads the information code 41 and the management server 13 that manages the information code 41.

[0023] As described above, the reading terminal 12 is a smartphone installed with a dedicated reading application for reading the information code 41, and includes a camera 61 as an "imaging unit," a touch panel display unit 62 that displays images captured by the camera 61, a control unit 63 that runs the dedicated reading application, and a memory 64 that stores various data. By launching the dedicated reading application, the reading terminal 12 is connected to the distribution server 11 and the management server 13 that manages the information code 41 via a communication network.

[0024] The management server 13 has an information code generation unit 31 that generates an information code 41 and a library 32 that stores the above-mentioned management information. The management server 13 is compatible with a WEB API, and when the information code generation unit 31 receives a generation request from a PC 15 or the like via a communication network, it generates an information code 41 in accordance with the request. The management information for the generated information code 41 is stored in the library 32. This generation request includes information such as the distributor's login ID for the virtual space 25 and the distributor's name. In addition, the PC 15 that makes the generation request is equipped with a camera, and this camera transmits facial information of the distributor to the management server 13.

[0025] Here, the information code 41 used in the content providing system 10 will be further explained with reference to FIG.

[0026] As shown in FIG. 2(a), the information included in the information code 41 can be broadly divided into public information, which can be read by both the dedicated reading application and the general-purpose reading application, and private information, which can be read by the dedicated reading application but not by the general-purpose application. The public information includes code ID information D1 for managing the generated information code 41 and distributor information D2, which indicates the intended user of the information code 41, such as the name and ID of the distributor. For example, if multiple information codes 41 are generated, it may be difficult to determine which one is intended for whom. However, misuse of the information code 41 can be avoided by capturing an image of the information code 41 with a dedicated or general-purpose reading application and checking the distributor information D2. Furthermore, face authentication information D3 for verifying the identity of the distributor is set as private information. As will be described in detail later, when the dedicated reading application installed on the reading terminal 12 is launched, personal authentication is performed using the face authentication information D3.

[0027] The information code 41 shown in this embodiment is a QR code (registered trademark) formed to have a square outer shape, and is composed of a code area 45 in which cells 42, which are units for displaying information, are arranged in a matrix, and a free area 46, which is an area in which the data to be decoded (data to be output as the reading result) is not recorded by the cells 42 (specifically, an area in which data is not recorded by the cells 42 and which is not subject to error correction by error correction codes).

[0028] The code area 45 has a rectangular frame shape and is composed of a specific pattern area where a specific pattern of a predetermined shape (specifically, a fixed figure with an area wider than a single cell 42) is arranged, a data recording area where data is recorded using multiple types of cells 42, and an error correction code recording area where error correction codes are recorded using multiple types of cells 42. Position detection patterns 43 (cut-out symbols) are arranged at the three corners of the code area 45 as specific patterns, and alignment patterns 44 and timing patterns are arranged at predetermined positions.

[0029] In this embodiment, the empty space 46 functions as a canvas area for drawing content such as illustrations. For example, if the information code 41 is printed along the outer edge of a rectangular piece of paper (colored paper 16), the blank space in the center of the paper becomes the area for drawing content.

[0030] The area of ​​the code area 45 of the information code 41 is smaller than the area of ​​the empty area 46, and by making the empty area 46 larger, the area for drawing the content is prevented from becoming narrower.

[0031] Next, the procedure for providing content using the content providing system 10 will be described with reference to the flowchart in Fig. 3. The following description will exemplify a case in which a distributor who is an illustrator belonging to an IP holder company uses the content providing system 10 to display a hand-drawn illustration 71 in a virtual space 25.

[0032] First, the IP holder company to which the distributor belongs makes a request to the management server 13 to generate an information code 41 in order to obtain an information code 41 to distribute to the distributor (S101). For example, the request to generate the information code 41 is made from the PC 15 via a communication network. At this time, the information required to generate the information code 41 includes the purpose of use (provision of content), the distributor's login ID for the virtual space 25, and the distributor's name, and also transmits facial information of the distributor captured by the camera of the PC 15 to the management server 13. In this embodiment, a fee is paid by the IP holder company to the operating company of the content provision system 10 at the time of this generation request.

[0033] The information code generation unit 31 of the management server 13 receives this information, generates an information code 41 in response to the generation request, and transmits the generated information code 41 to the PC 15 (S102). The generated information code 41 includes code ID information D1, distributor information D2, and face authentication information D3. The code ID information D1 includes unique information that is unique to the information code 41, and processing pattern information that indicates a processing pattern when the information code 41 is read by the reading terminal 12. The unique information is used to check whether the information code 41 has already been used when decoding the information code 41, as will be described in detail later.

[0034] After obtaining the information code 41, the IP holder company prints the information code 41 on a colored paper 16 and hands it over to the distributor (S103). The distributor, having received the colored paper 16 on which the information code 41 is printed, uses the colored paper 16 to create an illustration 71 (S104). Specifically, the distributor draws the illustration 71 in the blank area 16a (see FIG. 1) on the colored paper 16 that is surrounded by the information code 41. After the illustration 71 is completed, the dedicated reading application on the reading terminal 12 is launched (S105). Launching the dedicated reading application requires identity authentication of the distributor. This identity authentication is performed as part of the sequence in which the information code 41 is read. The identity authentication process will be described below with reference to FIG. 4.

[0035] In the personal authentication, first, the main camera 61a (see FIG. 6) provided on the rear side of the reading terminal 12 is activated to scan the information code 41 (S201). At this time, the image captured by the main camera 61a is displayed on the display unit 62 of the reading terminal 12, and a message prompting the user to capture an image of the information code 41 is additionally displayed on the display unit 62. When the scanning of the information code 41 is completed, this is notified on the display unit 62, etc., and the scanned data is sent to the management server 13 (S202).

[0036] Next, the in-camera 61b (see FIG. 6) provided on the front side of the reading terminal 12 is activated, and an image captured by the in-camera 61b and a message urging the user to capture a face image are displayed on the display unit 62 (S203). The in-camera 61b then reads the distributor's face (S204), and facial feature points are extracted from the read result (S205). The method for extracting the feature points is the same as when creating the information code 41. After the feature point extraction is complete, the extraction result is sent to the management server 13 (S206).

[0037] After receiving the scan data transmitted in S202, the management server 13 decodes the scan data using the decoding unit 33 (S207). Then, facial feature points are identified from the face authentication information D3, which is private information (S208). The identified feature points are then compared with the feature points transmitted from the reading terminal 12 in S206 (S209). Then, an instruction to launch / terminate the dedicated reading application is issued based on the comparison result (S210). Specifically, if the comparison result is a "match," an instruction to permit the launch of the dedicated reading application is transmitted to the reading terminal 12. If the comparison result is a "mismatch," an instruction to terminate the launch of the dedicated reading application and close the dedicated reading application is transmitted to the reading terminal 12. If the comparison result is a "match," information on the login ID for the virtual space 25 linked to the distributor in the content library 22 is transmitted to the reading terminal 12.

[0038] Returning to the explanation of FIG. 3, if the identity of the person is confirmed, the launch of the dedicated reading application is automatically completed (S107). After the dedicated reading application is launched, it connects to the virtual space 25 (distribution server 11) corresponding to the received login ID, and acquires information on the display location of the illustration 71 from the connected distribution server 11 (S108). After acquiring the information on the display location, it uploads the illustration 71 (S109). The upload of the illustration 71 is performed as part of the sequence of reading the information code 41. The upload flow will be explained below with reference to FIG. 5.

[0039] First, candidate delivery servers 11 (virtual spaces 25) to which the illustration 71 is to be uploaded are displayed on the display unit 62 of the reading terminal 12 (S301). Specifically, the candidate virtual spaces 25 are identified based on the received login ID information, and the names of the identified virtual spaces 25 are displayed on the display unit 62 (see FIG. 6(a)). The distributor selects an upload destination for the illustration 71 from the displayed candidates (S302). After the upload destination is selected, candidate display locations for the illustration 71 are displayed on the display unit 62 (S303). Specifically, candidate display locations are identified based on display location information acquired from the delivery server 11, and the names of the identified display locations are displayed on the display unit 62 (see FIG. 6(b)). The distributor selects a display location for the illustration 71 from the displayed candidates (S304). After the display location is selected, the main camera 61a is activated again to scan the information code 41, and the scanned data of the information code 41 (including the illustration 71) is sent to the management server 13 (S305).

[0040] In S305 above, the information code 41 and the illustration 71 must both be within the imaging range of the main camera 61a, and the scanning of the information code 41 (reading of the information code 41 and the illustration 71) is automatically performed by moving the reading terminal 12 to a position where the entire information code 41 is within the imaging range of the reading terminal 12 (corresponding to an "imaging operation"). Here, in this embodiment, a canvas area for the illustration 71 is secured inside the information code 41 (code area 45), so that by including the entire information code 41 within the imaging range, the illustration 71 will also necessarily be within the imaging range. In other words, it is less likely that a part of the illustration 71 will be lost during the digitization process.

[0041] The decoding unit 33 of the management server 13 decodes the received scan data (S306). After decoding, the code ID information D1 is confirmed (S307). Here, the ID information confirmation process executed by the management server 13 will be described with reference to FIG. 7(a).

[0042] In the ID information confirmation process, the code ID information D1 (specifically, the unique information) is first identified. In the management server 13 shown in this embodiment, the past usage status of the information code 41 is stored as a history in the library 32. Based on the unique information of the identified code ID information D1 and the history stored in the library 32, it is confirmed whether the currently decoded information code 41 is unused. If the current information code 41 is unused (S402: YES), the processing pattern information of the code ID information D1 is compared with the processing patterns stored in the library 32 to determine the content of subsequent processing (S403). That is, it is determined that the illustration 71 should be read (digitized). On the other hand, if the current information code 41 has already been used (S402: NO), the reading of the information code 41 is stopped (S404) and the reading terminal 12 is notified of this (S405). Upon receiving this notification, the reading terminal 12 terminates the dedicated reading application and displays a message on the display unit 62 indicating that a used information code 41 has been scanned.

[0043] If a used information code 41 is reused, an inconvenience may occur, such as the illustration 71 being uploaded and the illustration displayed in the virtual space 25 being overwritten. There is also concern that the reusability of the information code 41 may lead to unauthorized reuse. In this regard, as mentioned above, managing the usage history of the information code 41 and restricting its reuse is preferable in order to alleviate these concerns.

[0044] Returning to the explanation of Fig. 5, after the code ID information D1 is confirmed, the illustration 71 is read. In other words, the handwritten illustration 71 is digitized. Here, the illustration reading process executed by the management server 13 will be explained with reference to Fig. 7(b).

[0045] In the illustration reading process, first, the free space 46 of the information code 41 is identified from the scan data as the drawing range of the illustration 71 (S501). Next, the scan data is trimmed to fit this drawing range, and the illustration 71 is extracted from the scan data (S502). Next, during decoding, information on the tilt correction of the information code 41 is referenced from the position detection pattern 43 of the code area 45, and the tilt of the image data is corrected to zero or nearly zero (S503). When capturing an image of the information code 41 or illustration 71 using the reading terminal 12, it is not always possible to capture the illustration 71 straight from the front, and there is a possibility that the image may be tilted forward, backward, left, or right. In other words, when converting a handwritten illustration 71 into image data in a predetermined format (e.g., JPEG format), such tilt may cause distortion in the converted illustration 71. In this regard, correcting the image data as described above can effectively reduce distortion caused by digitizing the illustration 71.

[0046] Furthermore, the orientation of the image data is corrected based on the arrangement of the position detection pattern 43 (S504). When capturing an image of the information code 41 or illustration 71 using the reading terminal 12, the main camera 61a may be rotated clockwise or counterclockwise when viewing the illustration 71 from the front. This may cause a misalignment between the top, bottom, left, and right of the handwritten illustration 71 and the top, bottom, left, and right of the image data. In this regard, by rotating the image data and correcting the orientation of the image data, it is possible to suitably mitigate the misalignment of the orientation caused by digitization of the illustration 71.

[0047] The procedure for digitizing the illustration 71 is not limited to the above, and it is also possible to perform, for example, tilt correction and orientation correction, identify the drawing range, and extract the illustration 71.

[0048] Returning to the explanation of FIG. 5, after the reading (digitization) of the illustration 71 is completed, the image data of the illustration 71 is transmitted to the reading terminal 12 (S309). The reading terminal 12 stores the received image data in memory 64 (S310). Thereafter, the image data of the illustration 71 and information for identifying the designated display location are transmitted to the designated delivery server 11. This completes the upload of the illustration 71. As shown in FIG. 3, after the upload is completed, the delivery server 11 identifies the designated display location (S110), and reads out the image data from the content library 22 and displays it in the designated display location (S111).

[0049] In the above-described social media, content such as illustrations created in the real world can be brought into a virtual space (virtual reality world), allowing fans of the broadcaster (favorite broadcaster) to view the content within the virtual space. This can realize a new fan experience that connects the real world and the virtual space. However, bringing content created in the real world into the virtual reality world requires various procedures, making it difficult to provide a fan experience. Specifically, not only is the process time-consuming, but there is also the risk of distortion and other problems occurring when converting the content into image data. In this regard, the content providing system 10 described in this embodiment uploads the created content to the distribution server 11 as image data by capturing an image of the content along with an information code 41. The content uploaded to the distribution server 11 is then automatically displayed in a designated display location in the virtual space 25 created by the distribution server 11. This reduces the effort required for uploading and shortens the time from content creation to uploading. Note that the term "favorite broadcaster" refers to, for example, someone you like enough to recommend to others.

[0050] In this embodiment, the information code 41, captured when uploading content, includes reference information associated with the upload. Specifically, the information code 41 includes identity authentication information (face authentication information D3) for verifying whether the content creator and the uploader are the same person. Using the information code 41 can help prevent impersonation and operational errors, contributing to improved reliability. Furthermore, the information code 41 includes information for identifying the upload destination and its candidates, allowing the upload destination and display location to be specified using a dedicated reading application. This eliminates the need for manually entering the display location address or manually logging in to the distribution server 11 (virtual space 25), eliminating the need for the user to use multiple applications simultaneously for uploading content. For these reasons, building a system that utilizes the information code 41 to provide created content can contribute to providing a new fan experience using a communication network.

[0051] The information code 41 shown in this embodiment has a frame shape that surrounds the drawing area (empty area 46) for the content. With this configuration, when the information code 41 and the content are imaged together, it is possible to easily prevent part of the content from falling outside the imaging range. Furthermore, because the information code 41 indicates the outer edge of the drawing range, it is possible to reduce the occurrence of inconveniences such as making a mistake in the drawing range and having to redo the creation of the content.

[0052] For example, when capturing handwritten content with a camera, it is not always possible to capture the content from directly in front of it, and the camera orientation may result in the content being captured tilted. While it is possible to manually correct such tilt using an application or the like, this task is expected to be time-consuming. In this regard, the configuration described in this embodiment allows the tilt to be corrected using the information code 41 when converting content from analog to digital, thereby reducing the risk of a decline in content quality due to digitization.

[0053] The position detection patterns 43 constituting the information code 41 are arranged so as to surround the drawing range. This configuration increases the distance between the position detection patterns 43. This is preferable for improving the accuracy of the tilt correction described above.

[0054] <Second embodiment> In the first embodiment described above, an example was given of a mode in which the content providing system 10 is used when creating content (illustration 71) to be exhibited in a virtual space 25. In this embodiment, the content providing system is used when live streaming the content creation process and providing the completed content to viewers such as fans for a fee, and the configuration of the content providing system is partially modified due to differences in the fan experience envisioned. Hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 8, the content providing system 10X in this embodiment will be described, focusing on the differences from the content providing system 10 described in the first embodiment.

[0055] The content providing system 10X is composed of a reading terminal 12 on which a dedicated reading application for reading the information code 41 is installed, a management server 13 that manages the information code 41, a plurality of distribution servers 11X that distribute content, and a payment server 14X that is used for payment procedures when purchasing content. The information code 41, the reading terminal 12, and the management server 13 have the same configuration as in the first embodiment, so a description thereof will be omitted.

[0056] The distribution server 11X has a live distribution engine 21X that allows registered distributors to perform live distribution. Viewers can watch the live distribution from their own viewer terminals 18X, such as their own PCs, and this live distribution serves as a forum for interaction with the distributor. As shown in FIG. 9, a distribution room (distribution screen) 81X displayed on the viewer terminal 18X or the distributor's login terminal includes a live video display section 82X that displays the distributor's live video and a comment display section where viewers and distributors can enter comments.

[0057] In the live video display section 82X, the distributor ST is shown drawing an illustration 71 on a colored paper 16 on which an information code 41 is printed (see FIG. 9(a) → FIG. 9(c)). In this live distribution, as part of the interaction between the distributor ST and the viewers, the distributor ST may draw an illustration 71 in response to a request entered in the comment display section, for example. Once the creation of the illustration 71 is completed, the reader terminal 12 is used to upload the illustration 71 to the distribution server 11X (see FIG. 9(c) → FIG. 9(d)).

[0058] The upload procedure is basically the same as in the first embodiment. First, the distributor ST launches a dedicated reading application on the reading terminal 12 to authenticate the distributor ST. The management server 13 manages the distributor ST's login ID for the distribution server 11X, and after the distributor ST has authenticated the distributor, the login ID information is sent to the reading terminal 12. The reading terminal 12 identifies candidates for uploading the illustration 71 based on the received login ID information. The identified candidates are presented to the distributor ST, who then selects an upload destination from the presented candidates. After selecting the upload destination, the main camera 61a of the reading terminal 12 captures an image of the illustration 71 and the information code 41 within its imaging range. This automatically digitizes the illustration 71, and the image data of the illustration 71 is automatically uploaded to the specified upload destination (the distribution server 11X). In the distribution server 11X, the login ID of the distributor ST is linked to the distribution room 81X, and when the image data of the illustration 71 is stored in the content library 22 of the distribution server 11X, a download icon 85X, which is a trigger for downloading the illustration 71, is displayed in the download icon display section 83X of the distribution room 81X.

[0059] This download icon 85X is inoperable immediately after it is displayed and becomes operable once the purchase procedure is complete. Specifically, when the download icon 85X is displayed, a purchase procedure icon is displayed alongside the download icon 85X. Operating this icon displays a purchase menu screen. When a purchase operation is performed on this menu screen, the information is sent to the payment server 14X. When the payment is completed, information indicating the completion of the payment (payment information) is sent from the payment server 14X to the distribution server 11X. Based on receiving this payment information, the distribution server 11X enables operation of the download icon 85X displayed in the distribution room 81X. Then, when the download icon 85X is operated while its operation is enabled, the illustration 71 is transmitted (downloaded) to the viewer terminal 18X of the viewer who made the payment. The purchase price of the illustration 71, excluding some fees, is remitted to the IP holder company and the operating company of the content provision system 10.

[0060] According to the second embodiment described above, viewers can obtain a picture (handmade content) drawn by the broadcaster ST (their favorite) right in front of them (through a screen) in real time. This, combined with the exclusivity and rarity of a handmade item, can dramatically improve viewer satisfaction, even when the interaction is via a communication network. To provide such a way of interaction between the broadcaster ST and the viewer (fan) (a new fan experience), it is preferable to minimize the time lag between the completion of the illustration 71 and the acquisition of the illustration 71. In this regard, with the content providing system 10X described in this embodiment, various tasks, such as digitizing the illustration 71, can be completed using a dedicated reading application installed on the reading terminal 12, eliminating the need to switch between multiple applications. In other words, the broadcaster ST can upload the illustration 71 with simple operations, reducing the effort required for the task. This contributes to reducing the time lag described above. This is preferable for creating a sense of physical proximity between the broadcaster ST and the viewer. Furthermore, reducing the amount of work required from creating to uploading illustrations71 is effective for repeating the process of creating and uploading illustrations, and is also desirable for increasing opportunities to respond to requests from viewers. In other words, it can help provide the new fan experience mentioned above.

[0061] <Other embodiments> The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and may be implemented as follows. Each of the following configurations may be applied individually to the above-described embodiments, or a part or all of the configurations may be combined and applied to the above-described embodiments. In this case, it is preferable that the technical significance (effects to be achieved) of each of the configurations to be combined is ensured.

[0062] While the first embodiment described above illustrates an example in which handwritten illustrations 71 (corresponding to "content") are exhibited in an art museum in the virtual space 25 (metaverse), the application of the content providing system 10 is not limited to this. For example, the content providing system 10 can also be applied to an autograph session held in the virtual space 25, where a streamer, such as an idol, presents a handwritten autograph (corresponding to "content") to fans. Importing a handwritten autograph from the real world into the virtual space 25 can slow service response because the autograph must be transferred from the real world to the virtual space 25. In this regard, the content providing system 10 can shorten the time lag until the autograph is delivered to the fan, thereby improving fan satisfaction. In other words, a new fan experience can be optimally realized using a communication network (such as the virtual space 25). In such a configuration, the colored paper 16 and the autograph can be digitized, removing the information code 41 printed on the colored paper 16. A possible display location for the digitized, signed colored paper 16 (image data) can include, for example, the user's avatar's hands. By passing Shikishi 16 (image data) from your own avatar to your fan's avatar, you can contribute to further enhancing the fun of the fan experience.

[0063] In addition to autograph sessions, events such as exhibitions and live performances are expected to be held in the virtual space 25. It is also possible to display content such as handwritten illustrations at these types of events. For example, when displaying handwritten thank-you messages to fans who attended an event, the content providing system 10 can be used to easily and quickly display the thank-you messages.

[0064] It is also possible to transfer some of the processing functions currently performed by the management server 13 to the reading terminal 12. For example, in the above embodiment, the management server 13 is configured to read the illustration 71 (corresponding to "content") to be uploaded, but this can be changed to have the reading terminal 12 perform the reading. Also, in the above embodiment, the management server 13 is configured to perform the verification during personal authentication, but this can also be changed to have the verification performed by the reading terminal 12. Furthermore, the reading terminal 12 can be configured to check whether the information code 41 is unused. Such a configuration is preferable in terms of shortening the time until uploading.

[0065] In the above-described embodiments, the dedicated reading application installed on the reading terminal 12 is linked to the distribution service (social media) of the distribution server 11, i.e., the user of the reading terminal 12 (dedicated reading application) is linked to the user information of the distributor in the virtual space 25, and when the dedicated reading application is launched, information on candidates for the virtual space 25 (distribution server 11) to be used as an upload destination and candidates for the display location is obtained from the distribution server 11, and these candidates are presented on the reading terminal 12. However, this is not limited to this. For example, the service of the management server 13 may be linked to the distribution service of the distribution server 11, and when the dedicated reading application is launched, information on candidates for the virtual space 25 (distribution server 11) to be used as an upload destination and candidates for the display location may be transmitted from the management server 13 to the reading terminal 12, so that the reading terminal 12 can present the selection candidates. In addition, when linking the services of the management server 13 with the distribution service of the distribution server 11, when generating the information code 41, it is preferable to set, as other information (see Figure 3(b)), information indicating the virtual space 25 (distribution server 11) to be uploaded or its candidates, and information indicating the display location or its candidates, and to configure the reading terminal 12 to obtain this information by reading the information code 41.

[0066] In each of the above embodiments, when the dedicated reading application is launched on the reading terminal 12, candidates for the upload destination and display location of the illustration 71 are presented, but the configuration may also be such that candidates for the upload destination and display location are presented after preparation for uploading (preparation of image data) is completed.

[0067] In the above embodiments, the face authentication information D3 is used for personal authentication, but instead of or in addition to this, personal authentication may be performed using a personal identification number or fingerprint authentication. For example, the information code 41 may be configured to include information indicating a personal identification number (non-public information) or information indicating a fingerprint.

[0068] In the content providing system 10 shown in each of the above embodiments, the information code 41 is generated so as to be a square, but the shape of the information code 41 is arbitrary. For example, the information code 41 may be rectangular or circular. Also, while the free space 46 provided in the center of the information code 41 is configured to be used as a canvas for drawing the illustration 71, the free space 46 may be omitted and the canvas may be provided outside the information code. For example, the information code may be placed in a corner or edge of a sheet of paper or a page, and the remaining part where the information code is not placed may be used as the canvas.

[0069] Furthermore, if the display location of the content in the virtual space 25 is predetermined, information relating to the shape of the display location may be acquired by the management server 13, and the shape of the information code 41 (more specifically, the shape of the empty space 46) may be determined based on this information. For example, if it is possible to design the interior of a private room provided in the virtual space 25, and a design drawn in the real world is to be imported into the virtual space 25 using the content providing system 10, the shape of the information code 41 (more specifically, the shape of the empty space 46) may be determined to match the shape of the wall surface of the private room, etc.

[0070] In the above embodiments, the boundary between the code area 45 and the free space 46 of the information code 41 is the outer edge when reading content such as an illustration, but this outer edge may be slightly offset toward the center. That is, the boundary between the code area 45 and the free space 46 may be shifted from the outer edge when reading content such as an illustration. When the boundary between the code area 45 and the free space 46 is shifted from the outer edge when reading content such as an illustration, the information code 41 is generated so that a frame line indicating this outer edge is placed in the free space 46, and when reading content such as an illustration, the frame line may be removed for digitization.

[0071] It is also possible to set the outer edge of the content to be read outside the inner edge of the code area 45. In this case, it is advisable to digitize the content so as to exclude the information code 41 included in the read range.

[0072] In the above embodiments, an example is given of capturing and uploading an illustration 71 hand-drawn on a colored paper 16 on which an information code 41 is printed, but this does not deny the possibility of capturing and uploading an illustration created on a PC using a paint application or the like.

[0073] In the above embodiments, the uploading of an illustration 71 was exemplified, but the "content" to be uploaded can be any text, figure, pattern, color, or combination thereof, and for example, a signature, calligraphy, painting, etc. may also be uploaded.

[0074] In the second embodiment described above, an example was given of a configuration in which an illustration 71 is uploaded to the distribution server 11 and a download icon 85 is displayed in the distribution room (distribution screen) 81, but the uploaded illustration 71 does not necessarily have to be directly downloadable from the distribution room 81, and it is also possible to configure the distribution room 81 to display a link to a download site.

[0075] The illustration 71 shown in the first embodiment may also be made available for purchase using a payment service, as in the second embodiment. In this case, when the illustration 71 is downloaded after payment, the illustration 71 displayed in the virtual space 25 may be made invisible, and the image data of the illustration 71 stored in the distribution server 11 may be deleted.

[0076] In the above embodiments, the content such as an illustration is read based on the scan data transmitted when the information code 41 is read. However, the scan data for reading the information code 41 and the scan data for reading the content may be transmitted separately. However, in such a configuration, the number of scans and transmissions increases, which may lengthen the time it takes to complete the reading of the illustration 71. In order to shorten the time from when the content such as the illustration 71 is created to when it is uploaded to the distribution server 11, it is preferable to read the content such as an illustration based on the scan data transmitted when the information code 41 is read.

[0077] In the above embodiments, the position detection pattern 43 and alignment pattern 44 used to decode the information code 41 are used to correct the orientation and tilt of the image data of the illustration 71, but the correction function may be switchable between enabled and disabled. For example, in situations where content is repeatedly created and uploaded, such as at a signing event, the correction function can be disabled to shorten the preparation time for image data.

[0078] In the above embodiments, the area of ​​the code area 45 in the information code 41 is smaller than the area of ​​the free space 46, but this is not necessarily limited to this. The area of ​​the code area 45 may be larger than the area of ​​the free space 46, or the area of ​​the code area 45 and the area of ​​the free space 46 may be the same. However, when the information code 41 is frame-shaped and functions as a frame that indicates the range when creating content such as an illustration, it is preferable to make the information code 41 thin in terms of appearance, etc. In view of these circumstances, there is technical significance in making the area of ​​the code area 45 in the information code 41 smaller than the area of ​​the free space 46.

[0079] In the above embodiments, when a request to generate the information code 41 is made, information indicating the upload destination is input to the management server 13, and the information is linked to the distributor and stored in the library 32. To realize a configuration in which candidates for upload destinations are presented to the distributor when uploading content on the reading terminal 12, the above configuration may be modified as follows. That is, it is also possible to configure the configuration in such a way that candidates for upload destinations can be pre-registered from the setting screen of the dedicated reading application, and the registered candidates are presented when uploading.

[0080] In the above embodiments, the reading of the information code 41, etc. is automatically performed by moving the reading terminal 12 to a position where the entire information code 41 falls within the imaging range of the reading terminal 12 (corresponding to an "imaging operation"), but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, it is also possible to perform a configuration where the reading of the information code 41, etc. is performed by performing a shutter operation (corresponding to an "imaging operation") with the reading terminal 12 positioned where the entire information code 41 falls within the imaging range of the reading terminal 12.

[0081] In the above embodiments, a two-dimensional code (QR code (registered trademark)) is used as the "information code," but instead, a one-dimensional code (barcode) may be used.

[0082] The "reading terminal" is sufficient as long as it can connect to the management server 13, the distribution server 11, etc. via a communication network and can properly operate the dedicated reading application, and it can also be a PC or tablet instead of a smartphone.

[0083] <Inventions extracted from the above embodiments> The following describes the features of the inventions extracted from the above embodiments, while indicating, as necessary, the effects, etc. Note that, for ease of understanding, the corresponding configurations in the above embodiments are indicated in parentheses, etc. as appropriate, but the invention is not limited to the specific configurations indicated in parentheses, etc.

[0084] The features listed below have been developed in light of the following background technology: "In recent years, with the spread of communication networks, new fan experiences that utilize social media have been proposed. For example, Patent Document 1 (JP 2024-022731 A) proposes a system that allows viewers to simulate the act of filming by remote control, without having to go to the filming location. Such a system allows fans to interact with the event without having to go to the venue in person, lowering the barrier to the fan experience." In light of the following background and challenges, "The main reason fans visit venues and other locations is the live feeling of being physically close to their favorite idols, and receiving autographs, illustrations, and other content at venues and other locations is a major element of the fan experience. While making new fan experiences possible via communication networks is desirable for realizing interaction that transcends the constraints of distance and time, the reality is that there are various challenges, such as the amount of work required by streamers, in successfully integrating the provision of created content into new fan experiences via communication networks."

[0085] <Features Group A> Feature A1. A content providing system (content providing system 10) that provides content (e.g., illustration 71) that is a character, a figure, a pattern, a color, or a combination thereof via a communication network, an information code generation unit (information code generation unit 31 of the management server 13) that generates an information code (information code 41) so as to include reference information (code ID information D1, distributor information D2, face authentication information D3, upload destination information, etc.) that is referenced when uploading the content; an imaging unit (camera 61 of the reading terminal 12) capable of imaging the information code; an upload unit (control unit 63 of the reading terminal 12) that acquires the content as digital data when the content and the information code are imaged so as to be positioned within an image capturing range of the imaging unit, and uploads the acquired content to a server unit (distribution server 11) via the communication network; Equipped with The server unit performs a process of displaying the content uploaded by the upload unit at a designated display location or a process of making the content available for download.

[0086] According to this feature, by capturing an image of the created content along with an information code, the content is uploaded to a server as digital data. The content uploaded to the server can then be displayed in a designated location or made available for download. In particular, this feature includes reference information associated with the upload in the image of the information code captured when uploading the content. For example, using the reference information as authentication information for verifying whether the content creator and the uploader are the same person can prevent impersonation and operational errors, contributing to improved reliability. Furthermore, using the reference information as information indicating the upload destination or potential destinations can reduce the effort required for uploading and shorten the time from content creation to upload. Building a system that utilizes information codes to provide created content in this way can contribute to providing new fan experiences using communication networks.

[0087] The configuration described in this feature can also be expressed as "a content providing system (content providing system 10) that provides content (e.g., illustration 71) that is a character, a figure, a pattern, a color, or a combination thereof via a communication network, the content providing system including: an information code generating server (management server 13) that generates an information code (information code 41) so that the information code includes reference information (code ID information D1, distributor information D2, face authentication information D3, upload destination information, etc.) that is referenced when uploading the content; a terminal device (reading terminal 12) that has imaging means (camera 61) and applies an application (dedicated reading application) for converting the content into digital data of a predetermined format when the content and the information code are located within the imaging range of the imaging means and capturing an image of the content; and a content server (distribution server 11) that has a storage unit (memory 64) that stores the content uploaded from the terminal device and a processing unit that executes a process of displaying the content stored in the storage unit at a specified address or making the content available for download."

[0088] Feature A2. A content providing system (content providing system 10) that provides content (e.g., illustration 71) that is a character, a figure, a pattern, a color, or a combination thereof via a communication network, an information code generation unit (information code generation unit 31 of the management server 13) that generates an information code (information code 41) so as to include reference information (code ID information D1, distributor information D2, face authentication information D3, upload destination information, etc.) that is referenced when uploading the content; an imaging unit (camera 61 of the reading terminal 12) capable of imaging the information code; an upload unit (control unit 63 of the reading terminal 12) that acquires the content as digital data when the content and the information code are imaged so as to be positioned within an image capturing range of the imaging unit, and uploads the acquired content to a server unit (distribution server 11) via the communication network; Equipped with The server unit performs processing to display the content uploaded by the upload unit at a designated display location in a virtual space (virtual space 25) formed by the server unit.

[0089] According to this feature, by capturing an image of the created content along with an information code, the content is uploaded to a server unit as digital data. The content uploaded to the server unit is then displayed in a designated location in a virtual space created by the server unit. Fans of the content creator can view the content within the virtual space. This provides a new fan experience using a communication network.

[0090] In particular, this feature includes reference information corresponding to the upload in an information code captured when uploading content. For example, if the reference information is used as authentication information for verifying whether the content creator and the uploader are the same person, it can contribute to preventing impersonation and operational errors, thereby improving reliability. Furthermore, if the reference information is used as information indicating the upload destination or potential destinations, it can reduce the effort required for uploading and shorten the time from content creation to upload. In this way, building a system that uses information codes to provide created content can contribute to providing a new fan experience using a communication network.

[0091] Feature A3. A content provision system according to Feature A2, wherein the upload unit is capable of specifying the server unit to which the content will be uploaded and the display location in the virtual space where the content will be displayed, and when uploading the content, transmits the content and information indicating the specified display location to the server unit.

[0092] According to this characteristic configuration, the upload unit can specify the display location, thereby preventing the creator from having to do complicated work when uploading content.

[0093] Feature A4. A reading terminal (reading terminal 12) having the imaging unit and the upload unit is provided, A content provision system described in any one of Features A1 to A3, characterized in that the reading terminal obtains information indicating the display location or its candidates in advance by cooperating with the server unit, and presents the display location or its candidates when uploading the content.

[0094] According to this characteristic configuration, when uploading content, the reading terminal can identify display location candidates and present them to the creator. This eliminates the need to manually enter the address of the display location or manually log in to the server (virtual space), thereby reducing the effort required when uploading content.

[0095] Feature A5. A content providing system (content providing system 10) that provides content (e.g., illustration 71) that is a character, a figure, a pattern, a color, or a combination thereof via a communication network, an information code generation unit (information code generation unit 31 of the management server 13) that generates an information code (information code 41) so as to include reference information (code ID information D1, distributor information D2, face authentication information D3, upload destination information, etc.) that is referenced when uploading the content; an imaging unit (camera 61 of the reading terminal 12) capable of imaging the information code; an upload unit (control unit 63 of the reading terminal 12) that acquires the content as digital data when the content and the information code are imaged so as to be positioned within an image capturing range of the imaging unit, and uploads the acquired content to a server unit (distribution server 11) via the communication network; Equipped with The server unit has a setting unit that sets a distribution room (distribution room 81) in which the creator of the content and viewers can participate via the communication network, The content provision system is provided with a first display unit (live image display unit 82) in the distribution room that broadcasts the process of the creator creating the content, and a second display unit (download icon display unit 83) that displays a link to download the completed content when the content is uploaded by the upload unit.

[0096] According to this feature, the content creation process is broadcast in the distribution room (first display unit). By capturing an image of the completed content along with an information code, the content is uploaded to the server as digital data, and once the content is uploaded to the server, a link (download icon, address, etc.) for downloading the content is displayed on the second display unit. In other words, fans participating in the distribution room can watch the content creation process and obtain the content once it is completed. This provides a new fan experience using a communication network.

[0097] In particular, this feature includes reference information corresponding to the upload in an information code captured when uploading content. For example, if the reference information is used as authentication information for verifying whether the content creator and the uploader are the same person, it can contribute to preventing impersonation and operational errors, thereby improving reliability. Furthermore, if the reference information is used as information indicating the upload destination or potential destinations, it can reduce the effort required for uploading and shorten the time from content creation to upload. In this way, building a system that uses information codes to provide created content can contribute to providing a new fan experience using a communication network.

[0098] Feature A6. A reading terminal (reading terminal 12) having the imaging unit and the upload unit is provided, The content provision system described in Feature A5 has a registration unit (memory 64) that registers the upload destination when uploading the content, and a presentation unit (presentation function by the control unit 63) that presents the upload destination registered in the registration unit when uploading the content.

[0099] For example, when repeatedly creating and uploading content, manually entering the upload destination each time can be a significant hassle, lengthening the time it takes to upload. In this regard, the configuration shown in this feature can contribute to the creation of a system that shortens the time from capturing images to uploading, allowing fans and others to immediately obtain content.

[0100] Feature A7. A reading terminal (reading terminal 12) having the imaging unit and the upload unit is provided, The content provision system described in Feature A5 or Feature A6 is characterized in that the reading terminal obtains information indicating the display location or its candidates in advance by cooperating with the server unit, and presents the display location or its candidates when uploading the content.

[0101] According to this characteristic configuration, when uploading content, the reading terminal can identify display location candidates and present them to the creator. This eliminates the need to manually enter the address of the display location or manually log in to the server (virtual space), thereby reducing the effort required when uploading content.

[0102] Feature A8: The reference information includes identification information (e.g., facial authentication information D3) for identifying the creator of the content; a reading terminal (reading terminal 12) having the imaging unit and the upload unit; A content provision system described in any one of Features A1 to A7, wherein the upload unit is configured to upload the content if the user of the reading terminal corresponds to the identification information, and not upload the content if the user of the reading terminal does not correspond to the identification information.

[0103] As shown by this feature, by using the reference information (identification information) contained in the information code to verify (authenticate) the identity of the person, it is possible to prevent fraud such as impersonation and improve the reliability of the fan experience using the communication network.

[0104] Feature A9. The reference information includes ID information (code ID information D1) for identifying the information code, A content provision system described in any one of features A1 to A8, which is configured to prohibit uploading if the ID information checked during the upload matches ID information that has already been checked during a previous upload.

[0105] This configuration can prevent reuse of an information code that has already been used, which is preferable in terms of preventing uploaded content from being accidentally overwritten and preventing unauthorized use of the information code.

[0106] Feature A10. A reading terminal (reading terminal 12) having the imaging unit and the upload unit is provided, The content provision system described in Feature A9 is configured such that, when uploading the content to the server unit, the reading terminal stores the content as digital data, is capable of uploading the stored content, and the stored content is retained even after uploading.

[0107] As mentioned above, when managing information codes using ID information, the difficulty of re-uploading the same content can be a factor that reduces the convenience of this system. Therefore, as shown in this feature, by configuring the system to automatically save uploaded content and making it possible to upload saved content, such concerns can be effectively eliminated.

[0108] Feature A11. A content provision system described in any one of Features A1 to A10, wherein the reading terminal is configured to convert the content into digital data when the content and the information code are positioned within the imaging range, while excluding the information code from the conversion and upload.

[0109] This configuration can prevent information codes from remaining in the content being provided, thereby preventing a decrease in the satisfaction of fans who have purchased the content.

[0110] Feature A12: The content providing system according to any one of Features A1 to A11, wherein the information code is formed so as to surround the drawing area (empty area 46) for the content.

[0111] According to this feature, when capturing an image of the information code and the content together, it is possible to easily prevent part of the content from falling outside the image capture range. Furthermore, since the information code indicates the outer edge of the drawing range, it is possible to reduce the inconvenience of having to redo the creation of the content due to a mistake in the drawing range, etc. For example, it is preferable to form the information code in a frame shape.

[0112] Feature A13: The information code includes a symbol (such as a position detection pattern 43) for identifying the orientation of the information code, A content provision system described in any one of features A1 to A12, wherein when the content and the information code are imaged, the upload unit corrects the inclination of the information code based on the symbol and analyzes the information code, and corrects the inclination of the content based on the position information of the symbol or the correction information obtained when the inclination is corrected.

[0113] For example, when capturing handwritten content with a camera, it is not always possible to capture the content from directly in front of it, and the possibility cannot be denied that the content may be captured tilted depending on the orientation of the camera. For example, it is possible to manually correct such tilt using an application, but this work is expected to be a lot of work. In this regard, the configuration shown in this feature can correct the tilt using an information code when converting content from analog to digital, making it less likely that the quality of the content will deteriorate due to digitization.

[0114] Feature A14. The device has a plurality of the symbols, and corrects the inclination of the information code and the content based on the positional relationship of the symbols; The content providing system according to feature A13, wherein the symbols are arranged so as to surround a drawing range (open area 46) for the content.

[0115] According to the configuration of this feature, it is possible to increase the distance between symbols, which is preferable for properly performing the correction function described in feature A13.

[0116] Feature A15. The information code generation unit generates the information code so as to include upload destination information indicating an upload destination of the content; The content providing system according to any one of features A1 to A14, wherein the upload unit is capable of setting the server unit to which the content is uploaded based on the upload destination information.

[0117] As shown in this feature, if the information code includes information indicating the upload destination, the upload unit can determine the upload destination of the content via the information code. This allows the upload unit to present the upload destination to the creator or automatically set the upload destination, reducing the creator's effort when uploading content. This is also desirable in terms of shortening the time from content creation to uploading.

[0118] Feature A16. The content providing system according to Feature A15, wherein the information code generating unit is linked to the server unit and acquires the information indicating the upload destination from the server unit.

[0119] To achieve the function described in feature A15, it is preferable to configure the information code generation unit and the server unit to cooperate with each other and obtain information indicating the upload destination from the server unit, as described in this feature.

[0120] Feature A17. A content provision system described in any one of Features A1 to A14, wherein the server unit acquires payment completion information indicating that payment has been completed for a specified account when payment processing to purchase the content uploaded to the server unit is executed from the specified account, and executes download processing to send the content to the specified account based on the acquisition of the payment completion information and a request to download the content from the specified account.

[0121] As shown by this feature, if the content uploaded to the server can be obtained by executing a payment process, it can contribute to improving the satisfaction of fans who want to obtain the content.

[0122] Feature A18. A content providing system (content providing system 10) that provides content (e.g., illustration 71) that is a character, a figure, a pattern, a color, or a combination thereof via a communication network, an information code generation unit (information code generation unit 31 of the management server 13) that generates an information code (information code 41) so as to include reference information (code ID information D1, distributor information D2, face authentication information D3, upload destination information, etc.) that is referenced when uploading the content; an imaging unit (camera 61 of the reading terminal 12) capable of imaging the information code; an upload unit (control unit 63 of the reading terminal 12) that acquires the content as digital data when the content and the information code are imaged within an imaging range of the imaging unit, and uploads the acquired content to a designated server unit (distribution server 11) via the communication network; A content providing system comprising:

[0123] According to the above configuration, the created content is uploaded to the server as digital data by capturing an image of the content together with the information code. This feature, in particular, involves capturing an image of the information code and the content together when uploading the content. This configuration can contribute to smoother uploading operations and improved reliability of the content by using reference information. For example, using the reference information as authentication information for verifying whether the content creator and the uploader are the same person can contribute to preventing impersonation, etc. Furthermore, using the reference information as information indicating the upload destination or potential destinations can reduce the effort required for uploading and shorten the time from content creation to upload. Thus, a configuration in which created content is provided using a system utilizing information codes can contribute to providing a new fan experience using a communication network.

[0124] <Feature Group B> Feature B1. A content providing system (content providing system 10) that provides content (e.g., illustration 71) that is a character, a figure, a pattern, a color, or a combination thereof via a communication network, an information code generation unit (information code generation unit 31 of the management server 13) that generates a frame-shaped information code (information code 41) that includes reference information (code ID information D1, distributor information D2, face authentication information D3, upload destination information, etc.) that is referenced when uploading the content and that surrounds a drawing area (open area 46) for the content; an imaging unit (camera 61 of the reading terminal 12) capable of imaging the information code; an upload unit (control unit 63 of the reading terminal 12) that acquires the content as digital data when the content and the information code are imaged within an imaging range of the imaging unit, and uploads the acquired content to a designated server unit (distribution server 11) via the communication network; A content providing system comprising:

[0125] According to the above configuration, the created content is uploaded to the server as digital data by capturing an image of the content together with the information code. This feature, in particular, involves capturing an image of the information code and the content together when uploading the content. This configuration can contribute to smoother uploading operations and improved reliability of the content by using reference information. For example, using the reference information as authentication information for verifying whether the content creator and the uploader are the same person can contribute to preventing impersonation, etc. Furthermore, using the reference information as information indicating the upload destination or potential destinations can reduce the effort required for uploading and shorten the time from content creation to upload. Thus, a configuration in which created content is provided using a system utilizing information codes can contribute to providing a new fan experience using a communication network.

[0126] The information code is formed so as to surround the drawing area for the content, and the drawing area is indicated by the information code. With this configuration, when the information code and the content are imaged together, it is possible to easily prevent part of the content from falling outside the imaging range. Furthermore, because the information code indicates the outer edge of the drawing range, it is possible to reduce the occurrence of inconveniences such as making a mistake in the drawing range and having to redo the creation of the content.

[0127] Feature B2: The information code includes a symbol (such as a position detection pattern 43) for identifying the orientation of the information code, A content provision system according to feature B1, wherein the upload unit, when the content and the information code are imaged, corrects the inclination of the information code based on the symbol, analyzes the information code, and corrects the inclination of the content based on the position information of the symbol or correction information obtained when the inclination is corrected.

[0128] For example, when capturing handwritten content with a camera, it is not always possible to capture the content from directly in front of it, and the possibility cannot be denied that the content may be captured tilted depending on the orientation of the camera. For example, it is possible to manually correct such tilt using an application, but this work is expected to be a lot of work. In this regard, the configuration shown in this feature can correct the tilt using an information code when converting content from analog to digital, making it less likely that the quality of the content will deteriorate due to digitization.

[0129] Feature B3. A content provision system according to Feature B2, wherein the upload unit, when the content and the information code are imaged, identifies the orientation of the information code based on the symbol, analyzes the information code, and corrects the orientation of the content based on the position information of the symbol or the results of the orientation identification.

[0130] According to the configuration shown in this feature, the orientation of the content can be corrected using an information code when converting content from analog to digital, thereby making it less likely that the content will be displayed in an unintended orientation due to digitization.

[0131] Feature B4. A content provision system described in any one of Features B1 to B3, wherein the reading terminal, when imaged so that the content and the information code are positioned within the imaging range, acquires the content as digital data by extracting the portion inside the inner edge of the information code.

[0132] This configuration can prevent information codes from remaining in the content being provided, thereby preventing a decrease in the satisfaction of fans who have purchased the content.

[0133] Feature B5. The reference information includes identification information for identifying the creator of the content; a reading terminal (reading terminal 12) having the imaging unit and the upload unit; A content provision system described in any one of Features B1 to B4, wherein the upload unit is configured to upload the content if the user of the reading terminal corresponds to the identification information, and not upload the content if the user of the reading terminal does not correspond to the identification information.

[0134] As shown by this feature, by using the reference information (identification information) contained in the information code to verify (authenticate) the identity of the person, it is possible to prevent fraud such as impersonation and improve the reliability of the fan experience using the communication network.

[0135] Feature B6: The reference information includes ID information (code ID information D1) for identifying the information code; A content provision system described in any one of features B1 to B5, which is configured to prohibit uploading if the ID information checked during the upload matches ID information that has already been checked during a previous upload.

[0136] This makes it possible to prevent reuse of information codes that have already been used, which is preferable in terms of preventing uploaded content from being accidentally overwritten and preventing unauthorized use of information codes.

[0137] <Feature C group> Feature C1. A content providing system (content providing system 10) that provides content (e.g., illustration 71) that is a character, a figure, a pattern, a color, or a combination thereof via a communication network, an information code generation unit (information code generation unit 31 of the management server 13) that generates an information code (information code 41) so as to include reference information (code ID information D1, distributor information D2, face authentication information D3, upload destination information, etc.) that is referenced when uploading the content; an imaging unit (camera 61 of the reading terminal 12) capable of imaging the information code; an upload unit (upload function in the control unit 63 of the reading terminal 12) that acquires the content as digital data when the content and the information code are imaged so as to be positioned within an image capturing range of the imaging unit, and uploads the acquired content to a designated server unit (distribution server 11) via the communication network; Equipped with The content providing system is configured such that, when uploading the content, the upload unit presents the user with an upload destination or candidate upload destinations for the content, allowing the user to specify the upload destination.

[0138] According to the above configuration, the created content is uploaded to the server as digital data by capturing an image of the content together with the information code. This feature, in particular, captures an image of the information code and the content together when uploading the content. This configuration can contribute to smoother uploading operations and improved reliability of the content by using reference information. For example, using the reference information as authentication information for verifying whether the content creator and the uploader (user) are the same person can contribute to preventing impersonation, etc., and using the reference information as information indicating the upload destination or potential destinations can reduce the effort required for uploading and shorten the time from content creation to upload. Thus, a configuration in which created content is provided using a system that utilizes information codes can contribute to providing a new fan experience using a communication network.

[0139] Furthermore, when uploading content, the upload destination or candidate upload destinations are presented to the user, and the user specifies the upload destination. This configuration reduces the user's effort when uploading, and enables the created content to be uploaded quickly.

[0140] Feature C2: The information code generation unit generates the information code so as to include upload destination information indicating an upload destination of the content; The content providing system according to feature C1 or feature C2, wherein the upload unit determines the upload destination of the content based on the upload destination information.

[0141] To realize the technical idea shown in feature C1, the information code may include information indicating the upload destination, and the upload unit may be configured to know the upload destination of the content via the information code. [Explanation of symbols]

[0142] 10...Content providing system, 11...Distribution server, 12...Management server, 13...Reading terminal, 14...Payment server, 25...Virtual space, 27...Front wall, 28...Left wall, 29...Right wall, 31...Information code generation unit, 34...Reading unit, 41...Information code, 43...Position detection pattern, 46...Free space, 62...Camera, 71...Illustration, 81...Distribution screen, 82...Live image display unit, 83...Download icon display unit, 85...Download icon.

Claims

1. A content providing system that provides content that is a character, a figure, a pattern, a color, or a combination thereof via a communication network, an information code generation unit that generates an information code so as to include reference information that is referenced when uploading the content; an imaging unit capable of imaging the information code; an upload unit that, when an imaging operation is performed such that the content and the information code are positioned within an imaging range of the imaging unit, acquires the content as digital data and uploads the acquired content to a server unit via the communication network; Equipped with The server unit performs a process of displaying the content uploaded by the upload unit at a designated display location or a process of making the content available for download.

2. A content providing system that provides content that is a character, a figure, a pattern, a color, or a combination thereof via a communication network, an information code generation unit that generates an information code so as to include reference information that is referenced when uploading the content; an imaging unit capable of imaging the information code; an upload unit that, when an imaging operation is performed such that the content and the information code are positioned within an imaging range of the imaging unit, acquires the content as digital data and uploads the acquired content to a server unit via the communication network; Equipped with The server unit performs processing to display the content uploaded by the upload unit at a designated display location in a virtual space formed by the server unit.

3. The content providing system of claim 2, wherein the upload unit is capable of specifying the server unit to which the content will be uploaded and the display location in the virtual space where the content will be displayed, and when uploading the content, transmits the content and information indicating the specified display location to the server unit.

4. A content providing system that provides content that is a character, a figure, a pattern, a color, or a combination thereof via a communication network, an information code generation unit that generates an information code so as to include reference information that is referenced when uploading the content; an imaging unit capable of imaging the information code; an upload unit that, when the content and the information code are imaged so as to be positioned within an image capturing range of the imaging unit, acquires the content as digital data and uploads the acquired content to a server unit via the communication network; Equipped with the server unit has a setting unit that sets a distribution room in which creators and viewers of the content can participate via the communication network; A content provision system in which the distribution room is provided with a first display unit on which the creator broadcasts the process of creating the content, and a second display unit on which a link to download the completed content is displayed when the completed content is uploaded by the upload unit.

5. a reading terminal having the imaging unit and the upload unit; The content providing system according to claim 4, wherein the reading terminal has a registration unit that registers an upload destination when uploading the content, and a presentation unit that presents the upload destination registered in the registration unit when uploading the content.

6. The reference information includes identification information for identifying a creator of the content, a reading terminal having the imaging unit and the upload unit; A content providing system as described in any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the upload unit is configured to upload the content if the user of the reading terminal corresponds to the identification information, and not upload the content if the user of the reading terminal does not correspond to the identification information.

7. The reference information includes ID information for identifying the information code, A content providing system as described in any one of claims 1 to 5, configured to prohibit uploading if the ID information checked during the upload matches ID information that has already been checked during a previous upload.

8. 6. The content providing system according to claim 1, wherein the information code is formed so as to surround a drawing area for the content.

9. A content providing system that provides content that is a character, a figure, a pattern, a color, or a combination thereof via a communication network, an information code generation unit that generates an information code so as to include reference information that is referenced when uploading the content; an imaging unit capable of imaging the information code; an upload unit that, when the content and the information code are imaged so as to be positioned within an image capturing range of the imaging unit, acquires the content as digital data and uploads the acquired content to a designated server unit via the communication network; A content providing system comprising:

Images