System, display control device, information processing device, program, and method

Abstract

The present invention provides a system, display control device, information processing device, program, and method that enable flexible switching of videos to be played on a display device. [Solution] The system includes a display control device. The display control device receives a playback instruction for a second video from a management terminal to a display device that is playing a first video, switches the first video being played on the display device to the second video and plays it, and after the playback state of the second video satisfies predetermined conditions, switches the video to be played on the display device from the second video to the first video.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a system, a display control device, an information processing device, a program, and a method.

Background Art

[0002] There is a technology for playing and distributing videos such as sports in public places such as restaurants (see, for example, Patent Document 1). For example, by playing (streaming) an advertising video (CM video) related to a hobby during a break time such as halftime in front of users with similar hobbies (sports fans) who gather in one place or users with the same hobby, efficient promotion to the above users becomes possible.

[0003] In the conventional case (for example, when playing a TV program in a restaurant), an advertising video played in the TV program is played for the user. Therefore, when the user is watching the same program, the same advertising video is played regardless of the location (whether in a restaurant or at home).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] On the other hand, as an advertiser of an advertising video, there may be a case where an advertising video corresponding to the location or time zone of a restaurant, for example, rather than a uniform advertisement for all households, is desired to be played. For example, when there is a soccer game, there are a certain number of advertisers who want to play an advertising video only in restaurants in big cities (where users in their 20s and 30s who are sensitive to trends are likely to gather). In this case, by limiting the restaurants where the advertising video is played, it is possible to conduct a cheaper and more efficient (more effectively targeting the users to be promoted) promotion than the conventional advertising videos on TV.

[0006] However, conventional technology had a problem in that it lacked room for improvement in flexibly switching the video played on the display device in response to playback instructions, with the aim of providing cheap and efficient advertising.

[0007] The object of the present invention is to provide a system, display control device, information processing device, program, and method that can flexibly switch the video to be played on a display device in response to a playback instruction. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] The system according to the present invention is A system equipped with a display control device, The aforementioned display control device is The management terminal receives a command to play the second video on the display device that is currently playing the first video. The first video being played on the display device is switched to the second video and played back. After the playback state of the second video satisfies predetermined conditions, the display device switches the video to be played from the second video to the first video. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to the present invention, the video to be played on the display device can be flexibly switched in response to a playback command. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] [Figure 1] This is a diagram showing the configuration of the video playback system in this embodiment. [Figure 2] This is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of the display control device in this embodiment. [Figure 3] This is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of the display control device in this embodiment. [Figure 4]It is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of the information processing apparatus in the present embodiment. [Figure 5] It is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of the management terminal in the present embodiment. [Figure 6] It is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of the management terminal in the present embodiment. [Figure 7] It is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of the management terminal in the present embodiment. [Figure 8] It is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of the management terminal in the present embodiment. [Figure 9] It is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the display control apparatus in the present embodiment. [Figure 10] It is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the display control apparatus in the present embodiment. [Figure 11] It is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the information processing apparatus in the present embodiment. [Figure 12] It is a flowchart showing an example of the processing performed by the display control apparatus. [Figure 13] It is a diagram showing an example of displaying a reception screen on the display unit of the management terminal. [Figure 14] It is a diagram showing an example of displaying a reception screen on the display unit of the management terminal. [Figure 15] It is a diagram showing an example of displaying a reception screen on the display unit of the management terminal.

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0011] Embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In each figure, those denoted by the same reference numerals have the same or similar configurations.

[0012] (Configuration of Video Playback System 1) FIG. 1 shows the configuration of the video playback system 1 in the present embodiment. The video playback system 1 is a system that plays (broadcasts or distributes) videos such as sports in a store (public place) such as a restaurant. In the video playback system 1, in order to enable efficient promotion for users with similar hobbies (sports fans) or users with the same hobby who gather in one place, an advertisement video (CM video) related to the hobby can be played (streamed) during a break time such as half-time.

[0013] The video playback system 1 shown in FIG. 1 includes store systems 10, 20, an information processing device 30 (information processing server), and management terminals 40, 50, 60, 70. The store systems 10, 20 and the information processing device 30 are communicably connected to each other via a communication line 4 such as the Internet, an intranet, a wireless LAN, or mobile communication. Also, the information processing device 30 and the management terminals 40, 50, 60, 70 are communicably connected to each other via a communication line 5 such as the Internet, an intranet, a wireless LAN, or mobile communication. Note that the video playback system 1 functions as the "system" of the present invention.

[0014] The store system 10 is provided in store A (for example, a restaurant) and includes a display device 11, a switching device 12, a set-top box (STB) 13, and a display control device 14 which is, for example, a microcomputer. The display control device 14 and the information processing device 30 are communicably connected to each other via the communication line 4.

[0015] The display device 11 is a display device such as a TV that plays and displays the video output by the switching device 12. Also, the display device 11 has a speaker, and when the output video includes audio data (including voice data, performance data, etc.), the audio data is output via the speaker. Note that the display device 11 may be a projector, or may display a screen on a screen. Also, the speaker may be independent of the display device 11.

[0016] Based on the control of the display control device 14, the switching device 12 selects either a first video output from the set-top box 13 (e.g., a sports video) or a second video output from the display control device 14 (e.g., a commercial video) and outputs it to the display device 11. The set-top box 13 is connected to the switching device 12 via a video input terminal (input type "HDMI1", HDMI: registered trademark) provided on the switching device 12. The display control device 14 is also connected to the switching device 12 via a video input terminal (input type "HDMI2", HDMI: registered trademark) provided on the switching device 12. Furthermore, the display control device 14 is connected to the switching device 12 via wireless (e.g., infrared) communication.

[0017] The set-top box 13 receives broadcast signals such as cable television broadcasts, satellite broadcasts, terrestrial television broadcasts (digital and analog), and IP broadcasts (broadband VOD, etc.) via, for example, a BS / CS tuner, and converts them into a first video (for example, a sports video) that can be viewed by the user on the display device 11. The set-top box 13 then outputs the converted first video to the switching device 12. The set-top box 13 may be configured integrally with the display device 11 and the switching device 12.

[0018] The display control device 14 receives video link information from the information processing device 30 indicating the storage location of the second video (for example, a commercial video) stored in the information processing device 30, and accesses the video link indicated by the received video link information to download the second video. The display control device 14 then outputs the downloaded second video to the switching device 12.

[0019] Furthermore, the display control device 14 controls the switching device 12 to selectively output either the first video output from the set-top box 13 or the second video output from the display control device 14 to the display device 11.

[0020] The store system 20 is installed in store B (for example, a restaurant) and includes a display device 21, a switching device 22, a set-top box (STB) 23, and a display control device 24, which is, for example, a microcontroller. The display control device 24 and the information processing device 30 are connected to each other via a communication line 4 so that they can communicate with each other.

[0021] The display device 21 is a display device such as a television that plays and displays the video output by the switching device 22. The display device 21 also has a speaker, and if the output video includes sound data (including voice data, performance data, etc.), that sound data is output through the speaker. The display device 21 may also be a projector, or it may display a screen. The speaker may also be independent of the display device 21.

[0022] The switching device 22 selects either a first video output from the set-top box 23 (e.g., a sports video) or a second video output from the display control device 24 (e.g., a commercial video) based on the control of the display control device 24, and outputs it to the display device 21. The set-top box 23 is connected to the switching device 22 via a video input terminal (input type "HDMI1", HDMI: registered trademark) provided on the switching device 22. The display control device 24 is also connected to the switching device 22 via a video input terminal (input type "HDMI2", HDMI: registered trademark) provided on the switching device 22. Furthermore, the display control device 24 is connected to the switching device 22 via wireless (e.g., infrared) communication. In case of trouble, the switching device 22 may also select either the first video output from the set-top box 23 or the second video output from the display control device 24 based on instructions from the remote control and output it to the display device 21.

[0023] The set-top box 23 receives broadcast signals such as cable television broadcasts, satellite broadcasts, terrestrial television broadcasts (digital and analog), and IP broadcasts (broadband VOD, etc.) via, for example, a BS / CS tuner, and converts them into a first video (for example, a sports video) that can be viewed by the user on the display device 21. The set-top box 23 then outputs the converted first video to the switching device 22. The set-top box 23 may be configured integrally with the display device 21 and the switching device 22.

[0024] The display control device 24 receives video link information from the information processing device 30 indicating the storage location of the second video (for example, a commercial video) stored in the information processing device 30, and accesses the video link indicated by the received video link information to download the second video. The display control device 24 then outputs the downloaded second video to the switching device 22.

[0025] Furthermore, the display control device 24 controls the switching device 22 to selectively output either the first video output from the set-top box 23 or the second video output from the display control device 24 to the display device 21.

[0026] The information processing device 30 stores (saves) multiple second videos (for example, commercial videos) in its memory unit. The information processing device 30 also transmits video link information indicating the storage location of the second videos to the display control devices 14 and 24. When the display control devices 14 and 24 access a video link indicated by the video link information transmitted to them, the information processing device 30 causes the display control devices 14 and 24 to download the second video corresponding to that video link.

[0027] Furthermore, the information processing device 30 stores in its memory unit distribution information (restaurant information) indicating the download destination and distribution destination (for example, stores A and B) of the second video, as well as operation history information indicating the operation history of the display control devices 14 and 24 at stores A and B.

[0028] Furthermore, the information processing device 30 transmits screen data to the management terminals 40, 50, 60, and 70, causing the display units of the management terminals 40, 50, 60, and 70 to display various reception screens based on the screen data. In accordance with the user's operation (playback instruction operation) on the reception screen displayed on the display units of the management terminals 40, 50, 60, and 70, the information processing device 30 transmits video link information indicating the storage location of the second video selected as the playback target to the display control devices 14 and 24. Note that the information processing device 30 may consist of one or more information processing devices, or it may be configured using a virtual server (such as a cloud server).

[0029] Management terminals 40, 50, 60, and 70 are information processing terminals such as personal computers (PCs). Any type of terminal may be used for management terminals 40, 50, 60, and 70, such as mobile phones, smartphones, tablet devices, notebook PCs, personal digital assistants (PDAs), or home game consoles.

[0030] The management terminal 40 is an information processing terminal used by a user who is an advertiser (hereinafter also referred to as an advertiser user) who has paid advertising fees in relation to the second video (for example, a commercial video) stored in the memory unit of the information processing device 30. The advertiser user can operate the display control devices 14 and 24 and check information related to the display control devices 14 and 24 via the information processing device 30.

[0031] Furthermore, advertiser users can manage video playback at stores A and B by performing predetermined operations on the reception screen displayed on the display unit of the management terminal 40. Video playback management at stores A and B includes managing the playback (broadcast) time slot of the first video (e.g., sports video) on the display devices 11 and 21 of stores A and B, managing the type of the first video (e.g., type of sport), managing the type of the second video (e.g., commercial video) to be played on the display devices 11 and 21 of stores A and B, and managing the transmission of video link information indicating the storage location of the second video to the display control devices 14 and 24.

[0032] The management terminal 50 is an information processing terminal used by the user who manages both stores A and B (hereinafter also referred to as the overall management user). The overall management user can operate the display control devices 14 and 24 and check information related to the display control devices 14 and 24 via the information processing device 30.

[0033] Furthermore, the overall management user can manage video playback in stores A and B by performing predetermined operations on the reception screen displayed on the display unit of the management terminal 50. Video playback management in stores A and B includes managing the playback (broadcast) time slot of the first video (e.g., sports video) on the display devices 11 and 21 of stores A and B, managing the type of the first video (e.g., type of sport), managing the type of second video (e.g., commercial video) to be played on the display devices 11 and 21 of stores A and B, and managing the transmission of video link information indicating the storage location of the second video to the display control devices 14 and 24.

[0034] The management terminal 60 is an information processing terminal used by the user who manages store A (hereinafter also referred to as the store A management user). The store A management user can operate the display control devices 14 and 24 and check information related to the display control devices 14 and 24 via the information processing device 30.

[0035] Furthermore, the Store A management user can perform video playback management at Store A by performing predetermined operations on the reception screen displayed on the display unit of the management terminal 60. Examples of video playback management at Store A include managing the playback (broadcast) time slot of the first video (e.g., sports video) on the display device 11 of Store A, managing the type of the first video (e.g., type of sport), managing the type of the second video (e.g., commercial video) to be played on the display device 11 of Store A, and managing the transmission of video link information indicating the storage location of the second video to the display control device 14.

[0036] The management terminal 70 is an information processing terminal used by the user who manages store B (hereinafter also referred to as the store B management user). The store B management user can operate the display control devices 14 and 24, and check information related to the display control devices 14 and 24, via the information processing device 30.

[0037] Furthermore, the Store B management user can perform video playback management at Store B by performing predetermined operations on the reception screen displayed on the display unit of the management terminal 70. Examples of video playback management at Store B include managing the playback (broadcast) time slot of the first video (e.g., sports video) on the display device 21 of Store B, managing the type of the first video (e.g., type of sport), managing the type of the second video (e.g., commercial video) to be played on the display device 21 of Store B, and managing the transmission of video link information indicating the storage location of the second video to the display control device 24.

[0038] Furthermore, the user interface of the reception screen displayed on the display units of the management terminals 60 and 70 may be the same, or it may be changed depending on the store.

[0039] Next, the process of playing a video in, for example, store A of the video playback system 1 will be explained. First, in the store system 10, the display device 11 plays and displays the first video (for example, a sports video) output from the set-top box 13 via the switching device 12. The playback of the first video may also be started in response to instructions from management terminals 40, 50, 60, 70, or when a person in charge at store A presses a predetermined switch (not shown) or operates the remote control (not shown) of the display device 11.

[0040] Next, the information processing device 30 transmits video link information indicating the storage location of the second video to the display control device 14 in response to playback instructions from the management terminals 40, 50, 60, and 70. When the display control device 14 accesses the video link indicated by the video link information transmitted to the display control device 14, it is instructed to download the second video corresponding to that video link. The information processing device 30 may also instruct the display control device 14 to download the second video before the first video is played and displayed on the display device 11. The number of second videos to be downloaded to the display control device 14 may be one or two or more.

[0041] Next, when the first video (for example, a soccer sports video) being played on the display device 11 enters halftime (a break), the management terminals 40, 50, 60, and 70 send a command to the display control device 14 via the information processing device 30 to play a second video (for example, a commercial video). In this case, the display control device 14 outputs the second video downloaded from the information processing device 30 to the switching device 12, and controls the switching device 12 to switch from the first video being played on the display device 11 to the second video output from the display control device 14. As a result, the display device 11 plays and displays the second video output from the display control device 14 via the switching device 12. The first video (for example, a sports video) includes a first part (for example, during the match) and a second part (for example, during a break). The display device 11 may play and display one type of second video output from the display control device 14, or it may play and display multiple types of second videos with different playback times.

[0042] Next, when playback of the second video has finished, the display control device 14 controls the switching device 12 to output the first video, which is output from the set-top box 13, to the display device 11 instead of the second video that has finished playing. As a result, the display device 11 plays and displays the first video output from the set-top box 13 via the switching device 12. Note that the display device 11 may also play and display the second video output from the display control device 14 at timings before and after playback of the first video, not limited to halftime (break time).

[0043] Furthermore, as a function of the video playback system 1, the information processing device 30 performs various management operations on the display control devices 14 and 24. For example, the information processing device 30 records the timing and number of times the video to be output to the display devices 11 and 21 is switched by the display control devices 14 and 24, as well as playback history information indicating the video in question. In other words, the information processing device 30 can grasp the information about the videos (first video, second video) that are played back on the display devices 11 and 21. The information processing device 30 also manages the status of the display control devices 14 and 24 (for example, CPU usage rate, temperature, etc.). The purpose of this is to understand the load on the display control devices 14 and 24, and consequently, whether or not the display control devices 14 and 24 are malfunctioning.

[0044] Furthermore, if multiple second videos are downloaded to the display control devices 14 and 24, the display devices 11 and 21 can selectively play and display any of the multiple second videos according to various circumstances, via the control of the display control devices 14 and 24.

[0045] Furthermore, management terminals 40 and 50 can control multiple display control devices 14 and 24 for stores A and B via the information processing device 30 by receiving user (advertiser user, overall management user) operations on the reception screen displayed on the display unit. Similarly, management terminal 60 can control the display control device 14 for store A via the information processing device 30 by receiving user (store A management user) operations on the reception screen displayed on the display unit. Similarly, management terminal 70 can control the display control device 24 for store B via the information processing device 30 by receiving user (store B management user) operations on the reception screen displayed on the display unit.

[0046] (Hardware configuration of the display control device 14) Figure 2 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of the display control device 14 in this embodiment. As shown in Figure 2, the display control device 14 is configured to include a control unit 15, a storage unit 16, and a communication unit 17.

[0047] The control unit 15 is, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a microprocessor, a DSP (Digital Signal Processor), and controls the overall operation of the display control device 14.

[0048] A portion of the memory unit 16 is composed of, for example, RAM (Random Access Memory) or DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory), and is used as a work area when the control unit 15 executes various programs.

[0049] Furthermore, a portion of the storage unit 16 is, for example, a non-volatile memory such as ROM (Read Only Memory) or an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), which stores various data and programs used for processing in the control unit 15. The storage unit 16 can also maintain a database including one or more tables for recording various information and processing results.

[0050] The programs stored in the memory unit 16 include, for example, an OS (Operating System) for realizing the basic functions of the display control device 14, drivers for controlling various hardware, and programs for realizing various functions.

[0051] The communication unit 17 is, for example, a NIC (Network Interface Controller) and has the function of connecting to the communication line 4. Alternatively, the communication unit 17 may have functions to connect to a wireless LAN (Local Area Network), a wireless WAN (Wide Area Network), short-range wireless communication such as Bluetooth®, and infrared communication, either in place of or in conjunction with the NIC. The display control device 14 is connected to the information processing device 30 via the communication line 4 and can send and receive various types of data between it and the information processing device 30.

[0052] The control unit 15, the storage unit 16, and the communication unit 17 are electrically connected to each other via the system bus 18. Therefore, the control unit 15 can access the storage unit 16, and access various communication networks and the information processing device 30 via the communication unit 17.

[0053] (Hardware configuration of the display control device 24) Figure 3 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of the display control device 24 in this embodiment. As shown in Figure 3, the display control device 24 is configured to include a control unit 25, a storage unit 26, and a communication unit 27.

[0054] The control unit 25 is, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a microprocessor, a DSP (Digital Signal Processor), and controls the overall operation of the display control device 24.

[0055] A portion of the memory unit 26 is composed of, for example, RAM (Random Access Memory) or DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory), and is used as a work area when the control unit 25 executes various programs.

[0056] Furthermore, a portion of the storage unit 26 is, for example, non-volatile memory such as ROM (Read Only Memory) or an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), which stores various data and programs used for processing by the control unit 25. The storage unit 26 can also maintain a database including one or more tables for recording various information and processing results.

[0057] The programs stored in the memory unit 26 include, for example, an OS (Operating System) for realizing the basic functions of the display control device 24, drivers for controlling various hardware, and programs for realizing various functions.

[0058] The communication unit 27 is, for example, a NIC (Network Interface Controller) and has the function of connecting to the communication line 4. Alternatively, the communication unit 27 may have functions to connect to a wireless LAN (Local Area Network), a wireless WAN (Wide Area Network), short-range wireless communication such as Bluetooth®, and infrared communication, either in place of or in conjunction with the NIC. The display control device 24 is connected to the information processing device 30 via the communication line 4 and can send and receive various types of data between it and the information processing device 30.

[0059] The control unit 25, the storage unit 26, and the communication unit 27 are electrically connected to each other via the system bus 28. Therefore, the control unit 25 can access the storage unit 26, and access various communication networks and the information processing device 30 via the communication unit 27.

[0060] (Hardware configuration of the information processing device 30) Figure 4 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of the information processing device 30 in this embodiment. As shown in Figure 4, the information processing device 30 is configured to include a control unit 31, a storage unit 32, a communication unit 33, an operation input unit 34, and a display unit 35.

[0061] The control unit 31 is, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a microprocessor, a DSP (Digital Signal Processor), and controls the overall operation of the information processing device 30.

[0062] A portion of the memory unit 32 is composed of, for example, RAM (Random Access Memory) or DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory), and is used as a work area when the control unit 31 executes various programs.

[0063] Furthermore, a portion of the storage unit 32 is, for example, non-volatile memory such as ROM (Read Only Memory) or an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), which stores various data and programs used for processing by the control unit 31. The storage unit 32 can also maintain a database including one or more tables for recording various information and processing results.

[0064] The programs stored in the memory unit 32 include, for example, an OS (Operating System) for realizing the basic functions of the information processing device 30, drivers for controlling various hardware, and programs for realizing various functions.

[0065] The communication unit 33 is, for example, a NIC (Network Interface Controller) and has the function of connecting to communication lines 4 and 5. Alternatively, the communication unit 33 may have functions to connect to a wireless LAN (Local Area Network), a wireless WAN (Wide Area Network), short-range wireless communication such as Bluetooth®, and infrared communication, either in place of or in conjunction with the NIC. The information processing device 30 is connected to display control devices 14 and 24, management terminals 40, 50, 60, and 70 via communication lines 4 and 5, and can transmit and receive various types of data between the display control devices 14 and 24, management terminals 40, 50, 60, and 70.

[0066] The operation input unit 34 consists of a keyboard and mouse, and accepts input of various operations from the user using the information processing device 30. The display unit 35 is, for example, a liquid crystal display device, and displays various images.

[0067] The control unit 31, storage unit 32, communication unit 33, operation input unit 34, and display unit 35 are electrically connected to each other via the system bus 36. Therefore, the control unit 31 can access the storage unit 32, display images on the display unit 35, understand the user's operation status on the operation input unit 34, and access various communication networks, display control devices 14, 24, and management terminals 40, 50, 60, 70 via the communication unit 33.

[0068] (Hardware configuration of management terminal 40) Figure 5 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of the management terminal 40 in this embodiment. As shown in Figure 5, the management terminal 40 is configured to include a control unit 41, a storage unit 42, a communication unit 43, an operation input unit 44, and a display unit 45.

[0069] The control unit 41 is, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a microprocessor, a DSP (Digital Signal Processor), and controls the overall operation of the management terminal 40.

[0070] A portion of the memory unit 42 is composed of, for example, RAM (Random Access Memory) or DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory), and is used as a work area when the control unit 41 executes processing based on various programs.

[0071] Furthermore, a portion of the storage unit 42 is, for example, a non-volatile memory such as ROM (Read Only Memory) or an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), which stores various data and programs used for processing by the control unit 41. The storage unit 42 can also maintain a database including one or more tables for recording various information and processing results.

[0072] The programs stored in the memory unit 42 include, for example, an OS (Operating System) for realizing the basic functions of the management terminal 40, drivers for controlling various hardware, and programs for realizing various functions.

[0073] The communication unit 43 is, for example, a NIC (Network Interface Controller) and has the function of connecting to the communication line 5. Alternatively, the communication unit 43 may have functions to connect to a wireless LAN (Local Area Network), a wireless WAN (Wide Area Network), short-range wireless communication such as Bluetooth®, and infrared communication, either in place of or in conjunction with the NIC. The management terminal 40 is connected to the information processing device 30, etc., via the communication line 5 and can send and receive various types of data between it and the information processing device 30, etc.

[0074] The operation input unit 44 consists of a keyboard and mouse, and accepts input of various operations from advertiser users using the management terminal 40. The display unit 45 is, for example, a liquid crystal display device, and displays various images.

[0075] The control unit 41, storage unit 42, communication unit 43, operation input unit 44, and display unit 45 are electrically connected to each other via the system bus 46. Therefore, the control unit 41 can access the storage unit 42, display images on the display unit 45, understand the operation status of the operation input unit 44 by the advertiser user, and access various communication networks and information processing devices 30 via the communication unit 43.

[0076] (Hardware configuration of management terminal 50) Figure 6 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of the management terminal 50 in this embodiment. As shown in Figure 6, the management terminal 50 is configured to include a control unit 51, a storage unit 52, a communication unit 53, an operation input unit 54, and a display unit 55.

[0077] The control unit 51 is, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a microprocessor, a DSP (Digital Signal Processor), and controls the overall operation of the management terminal 50.

[0078] A portion of the memory unit 52 is composed of, for example, RAM (Random Access Memory) or DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory), and is used as a work area when the control unit 51 executes processing based on various programs.

[0079] Furthermore, a portion of the storage unit 52 is, for example, a non-volatile memory such as ROM (Read Only Memory) or an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), which stores various data and programs used for processing by the control unit 51. The storage unit 52 can also maintain a database including one or more tables for recording various information and processing results.

[0080] The programs stored in the memory unit 52 include, for example, an OS (Operating System) for realizing the basic functions of the management terminal 50, drivers for controlling various hardware, and programs for realizing various functions, and include programs that function as the "program" of the present invention.

[0081] The communication unit 53 is, for example, a NIC (Network Interface Controller) and has the function of connecting to the communication line 5. Alternatively, the communication unit 43 may have functions to connect to a wireless LAN (Local Area Network), a wireless WAN (Wide Area Network), short-range wireless communication such as Bluetooth®, and infrared communication, either in place of or in conjunction with the NIC. The management terminal 50 is connected to the information processing device 30, etc., via the communication line 5 and can send and receive various types of data between it and the information processing device 30, etc.

[0082] The operation input unit 54 consists of a keyboard and mouse, and accepts input of various operations from the overall management user using the management terminal 50. The display unit 55 is, for example, a liquid crystal display device, and displays various images.

[0083] The control unit 51, storage unit 52, communication unit 53, operation input unit 54, and display unit 55 are electrically connected to each other via the system bus 56. Therefore, the control unit 51 can access the storage unit 52, display images on the display unit 55, understand the operation status of the operation input unit 54 by the overall management user, and access various communication networks and the information processing device 30 via the communication unit 53.

[0084] (Hardware configuration of management terminal 60) Figure 7 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of the management terminal 60 in this embodiment. As shown in Figure 7, the management terminal 60 is configured to include a control unit 61, a storage unit 62, a communication unit 63, an operation input unit 64, and a display unit 65.

[0085] The control unit 61 is, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a microprocessor, a DSP (Digital Signal Processor), and controls the overall operation of the management terminal 60.

[0086] A portion of the memory unit 62 is composed of, for example, RAM (Random Access Memory) or DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory), and is used as a work area when the control unit 61 executes various programs.

[0087] Furthermore, a portion of the storage unit 62 is, for example, non-volatile memory such as ROM (Read Only Memory) or an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), which stores various data and programs used for processing by the control unit 61. The storage unit 62 can also maintain a database including one or more tables for recording various information and processing results.

[0088] The programs stored in the memory unit 62 include, for example, an OS (Operating System) for realizing the basic functions of the management terminal 60, drivers for controlling various hardware, and programs for realizing various functions, and include programs that function as the "program" of the present invention.

[0089] The communication unit 63 is, for example, a NIC (Network Interface Controller) and has the function of connecting to the communication line 5. Alternatively, the communication unit 63 may have functions to connect to a wireless LAN (Local Area Network), a wireless WAN (Wide Area Network), short-range wireless communication such as Bluetooth®, and infrared communication, either in place of or in conjunction with the NIC. The management terminal 60 is connected to the information processing device 30, etc., via the communication line 5 and can send and receive various types of data with the information processing device 30, etc.

[0090] The operation input unit 64 consists of a keyboard and mouse, and accepts input of various operations from a Store A management user using the management terminal 60. The display unit 65 is, for example, a liquid crystal display device, and displays various images.

[0091] The control unit 61, storage unit 62, communication unit 63, operation input unit 64, and display unit 65 are electrically connected to each other via the system bus 66. Therefore, the control unit 61 can access the storage unit 62, display images on the display unit 65, understand the operation status of the operation input unit 64 by the store A management user, and access various communication networks and information processing device 30 via the communication unit 63.

[0092] (Hardware configuration of management terminal 70) Figure 8 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of the management terminal 70 in this embodiment. As shown in Figure 8, the management terminal 70 is configured to include a control unit 71, a storage unit 72, a communication unit 73, an operation input unit 74, and a display unit 75.

[0093] The control unit 71 is, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a microprocessor, a DSP (Digital Signal Processor), and controls the overall operation of the management terminal 70.

[0094] A portion of the memory unit 72 is composed of, for example, RAM (Random Access Memory) or DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory), and is used as a work area when the control unit 71 executes processing based on various programs.

[0095] Furthermore, a portion of the storage unit 72 is, for example, a non-volatile memory such as ROM (Read Only Memory) or an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), which stores various data and programs used for processing by the control unit 71. The storage unit 72 can also maintain a database including one or more tables for recording various information and processing results.

[0096] The programs stored in the memory unit 72 include, for example, an OS (Operating System) for realizing the basic functions of the management terminal 70, drivers for controlling various hardware, and programs for realizing various functions, and include programs that function as the "program" of the present invention.

[0097] The communication unit 73 is, for example, a NIC (Network Interface Controller) and has the function of connecting to the communication line 5. Alternatively, the communication unit 73 may have functions to connect to a wireless LAN (Local Area Network), a wireless WAN (Wide Area Network), short-range wireless communication such as Bluetooth®, and infrared communication, either in place of or in conjunction with the NIC. The management terminal 70 is connected to the information processing device 30, etc., via the communication line 5 and can send and receive various types of data with the information processing device 30, etc.

[0098] The operation input unit 74 consists of a keyboard and mouse, and accepts input of various operations from store B management users using the management terminal 70. The display unit 75 is, for example, a liquid crystal display device, and displays various images.

[0099] The control unit 71, storage unit 72, communication unit 73, operation input unit 74, and display unit 75 are electrically connected to each other via the system bus 76. Therefore, the control unit 71 can access the storage unit 72, display images on the display unit 75, understand the operation status of the operation input unit 74 by the store B management user, and access various communication networks and information processing device 30 via the communication unit 73.

[0100] Figure 9 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the control unit 15 of the display control device 14 in this embodiment. As shown in Figure 9, the control unit 15 has a functional configuration comprising an instruction receiving unit 15a (functioning as the "receiving unit" of the present invention) and a display control unit 15b (functioning as the "control unit" of the present invention). In general, the control unit 15 of the display control device 14 has various other functions, but here we will only describe the functions that are characteristic of the video playback processing performed in the video playback system 1 of this embodiment, and other known functions will not be shown or described.

[0101] The instruction receiving unit 15a receives instructions from management terminals 40, 50, 60, and 70 to play a second video (e.g., a commercial video) on the display device 11 which is playing a first video (e.g., a sports video) output from the set-top box 13.

[0102] When the instruction receiving unit 15a receives an instruction to play the second video, the display control unit 15b outputs the second video downloaded from the information processing device 30 to the switching device 12, and controls the switching device 12 to switch the first video being played on the display device 11 to the second video and play it. Then, after the playback state of the second video being played on the display device 11 satisfies a predetermined condition (for example, when the playback of the second video is completed), the display control unit 15b controls the switching device 12 to switch the video being played on the display device 11 from the second video to the first video. Note that the predetermined condition is not limited to the completion of playback of the second video, but may also be, for example, when a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of playback of the second video.

[0103] Figure 10 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the control unit 25 of the display control device 24 in this embodiment. As shown in Figure 10, the control unit 25 has a functional configuration comprising an instruction receiving unit 25a (functioning as the "receiving unit" of the present invention) and a display control unit 25b (functioning as the "control unit" of the present invention). In general, the control unit 25 of the display control device 24 has various other functions, but here only the functions characteristic of the video playback processing performed in the video playback system 1 of this embodiment will be described, and other known functions will not be shown or described.

[0104] The instruction receiving unit 25a receives instructions from management terminals 40, 50, 60, and 70 to play a second video (e.g., a commercial video) on the display device 21 which is playing a first video (e.g., a sports video) output from the set-top box 23.

[0105] When the instruction receiving unit 25a receives an instruction to play the second video, the display control unit 25b outputs the second video downloaded from the information processing device 30 to the switching device 22 and controls the switching device 22 to switch the first video being played on the display device 21 to the second video and play it. Then, after the playback state of the second video being played on the display device 21 satisfies a predetermined condition (for example, the playback of the second video has finished), the display control unit 25b controls the switching device 22 to switch the video being played on the display device 21 from the second video to the first video. Note that the predetermined condition is not limited to the completion of playback of the second video, but may also be, for example, the elapsed of a predetermined time since the start of playback of the second video.

[0106] Figure 11 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the control unit 31 of the information processing device 30 in this embodiment. As shown in Figure 11, the control unit 31 has a functional configuration comprising an instruction receiving unit 31a (functioning as the "receiving unit" of the present invention) and a transmission control unit 31b (functioning as the "transmitting unit" of the present invention). In general, the control unit 31 of the information processing device 30 has various functions other than those described above, but here only the functions characteristic of the video playback processing performed in the video playback system 1 of this embodiment will be described, and other known functions will not be shown or described.

[0107] The instruction receiving unit 31a receives instructions from management terminals 40, 50, 60, and 70 to play a second video (e.g., a commercial video) on a first display device (e.g., display device 11) selected from among the multiple display devices 11 and 21.

[0108] The transmission control unit 31b transmits a control signal to the display control device (e.g., display control device 14) that controls the playback of the video on the first display device, for the purpose of playing the second video. Here, the control signal is a signal that controls the display control device to switch the first video being played on the first display device to the second video and play it, and after the playback state of the second video satisfies a predetermined condition (e.g., the playback of the second video is completed), to switch the video to be played on the first display device from the second video to the first video.

[0109] The control unit 41 of the management terminal 40 (functioning as the "processor" of the present invention) displays a reception screen on the display unit 45 that accepts a playback instruction for a second video (for example, a commercial video) to the display devices 11 and 21. The control unit 41 then transmits a control signal to the display control devices 14 and 24, which control the playback of videos on the display devices 11 and 21, via the information processing device 30, to play the second video. Here, the control signal controls the display control devices 14 and 24 to switch the first video being played on the display devices 11 and 21 to the second video and play it, and after the playback state of the second video satisfies a predetermined condition (for example, the end of playback of the commercial video), it is a signal to switch the video to be played on the display devices 11 and 21 from the second video to the first video. The processing content of the control units 51, 61, and 71 of the other management terminals 50, 60, and 70 (functioning as the "processors" of the present invention) is the same as the processing content of the control unit 41 of the management terminal 40, so the explanation will be omitted.

[0110] Figure 12 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing performed by the control unit 15 of the display control device 14 (corresponding to the "method" of the present invention) in this embodiment. Note that the processing performed by the control unit 25 of the display control device 24 is the same as that performed by the control unit 15 of the display control device 14, so a flowchart showing an example of the processing performed by the control unit 25 of the display control device 24 will be omitted.

[0111] First, the instruction receiving unit 15a receives instructions from the management terminals 40, 50, 60, and 70 to play a second video (e.g., a commercial video) on the display device 11 which is playing a first video (e.g., a sports video) output from the set-top box 13 (step S100).

[0112] Next, the display control unit 15b outputs the second video downloaded from the information processing device 30 to the switching device 12, and controls the switching device 12 to switch the first video being played on the display device 11 to the second video and play it (step S110).

[0113] Next, the display control unit 15b determines whether the playback state of the second video being played on the display device 11 has met a predetermined condition (for example, the playback of the second video has finished) (step 120).

[0114] If the determination shows that the playback state of the second video does not meet the predetermined conditions (step S120, NO), the process returns to before step S120. On the other hand, if the playback state of the second video does meet the predetermined conditions (step S120, YES), the display control unit 15b controls the switching device 12 to switch the video to be played on the display device 11 from the second video to the first video (step S130). Upon completion of the process in step S130, the display control device 14 terminates the process shown in Figure 12.

[0115] As explained in detail above, in this embodiment, the video playback system 1 includes display control devices 14 and 24. The display control devices 14 and 24 receive instructions from management terminals 40, 50, 60, and 70 to play a second video (e.g., a commercial video) on display devices 11 and 21 which are playing a first video (e.g., a sports video). The display control devices 14 and 24 switch the first video being played on the display devices 11 and 21 to play the second video. After the playback state of the second video satisfies a predetermined condition (e.g., the playback of the second video is completed), the display control devices 11 and 21 switch the video to be played from the second video to the first video.

[0116] With this configuration, the video to be played on the display devices 11 and 21 can be flexibly switched in response to playback instructions from the management terminals 40, 50, 60, and 70. Consequently, it is possible to conduct advertising that is cheaper and more efficient (more effectively targeted to specific users) than advertising videos (second video) in conventional display devices.

[0117] In the above embodiment, when the instruction receiving units 15a and 25a of the display control devices 14 and 24 receive a playback instruction for any of the multiple second videos (e.g., commercial videos) via a reception screen displayed on the management terminals 40, 50, 60, and 70, the management terminals 40, 50, 60, and 70 may set the display content of the second videos for which playback instructions can be received on the reception screen according to the length or number of second parts (break times) included in the first video (e.g., sports video) being played on the display devices 11 and 21. In other words, the second video is played during break times (second parts) such as halftime (soccer, rugby, etc.) or between innings or sets (baseball, volleyball), and the second videos that can be selected on the reception screen may differ depending on the length and number of break times.

[0118] For example, since halftime in soccer is 15 minutes and in baseball the change of innings is 1 or 2 minutes, the display content can be set to allow users to select a second video according to the break time. In the case of soccer, since halftime is 15 minutes, the display content of the second video can be set to allow selection of a 10-minute second video, as well as 10 second videos of 1 minute each. In the case of baseball, since the change of innings is 1 or 2 minutes, the display content of the second video can be set to allow selection of one second video of 1 minute each. On the other hand, in the case of baseball, a second video can be selected for each inning, but in the case of soccer, the display content of the second video can be set to allow selection only at halftime. Thus, the display content of the second video that can accept playback instructions can be appropriately set according to the second part (e.g., break time) included in the first video (e.g., sports video).

[0119] Figure 13 shows an example of displaying a reception screen on the display units 45, 55, 65, and 75 of the management terminals 40, 50, 60, and 70. As shown in Figure 13, if the first video being played on the display devices 11 and 21 (for example, a sports video) is a video about soccer, and the halftime (break time) is 15 minutes, then selection buttons 80, 81, 82, and 83 are displayed, allowing the user to select from 11-minute CM1, 9-minute CM2, 5-minute CM3, and 30-second CM4 as second videos (CM videos) that can be played back.

[0120] Figure 14 shows an example of displaying a reception screen on the display units 45, 55, 65, and 75 of the management terminals 40, 50, 60, and 70. As shown in Figure 14, if the first video (for example, a sports video) being played on the display devices 11 and 21 is a video about baseball, then selection buttons 84, 85, and 86 are displayed that allow the user to select the position in which to play the second video within the second part (break time) of the first video, such as after the top of the first inning, after the bottom of the first inning, after the top of the second inning, etc.

[0121] Figure 15 shows an example in which, when the selection button 85, which allows selection of the position after the end of the second inning as the position to play the second video in Figure 14, is pressed, a reception screen is displayed on the display units 45, 55, 65, and 75 of the management terminals 40, 50, 60, and 70. As shown in Figure 15, when the first video being played on the display devices 11 and 21 (for example, a sports video) is a video about baseball, since the change of innings is 1 or 2 minutes, the selection button 90 that allows selection of CM4, a 30-second video, is displayed as a second video (CM video) that can accept playback instructions, while the selection buttons 87, 88, and 89 that allow selection of CM1 (11 minutes), CM2 (9 minutes), and CM3 (5 minutes), respectively, are displayed as unavailable.

[0122] In the above embodiment, the display control units 15b and 25b of the display control devices 14 and 24 may switch the first video (e.g., sports video) to the second video (e.g., a commercial video) when the second part (break time) of the first video (e.g., a sports video) is being played on the display devices 11 and 21. Alternatively, the display control units 15b and 25b or the management terminals 40, 50, 60, and 70 may suppress the switch to the second video when the first part (e.g., during the match) of the first video is being played on the display devices 11 and 21. For example, even if the management terminals 40, 50, 60, and 70 issue a command to play the second video, the display control units 15b and 25b do not have to switch to the second video. Alternatively, the management terminals 40, 50, 60, and 70 may choose not to accept commands to play the second video, or they may choose not to allow the selection of a playable second video on the reception screen.

[0123] As a result, it is possible to suppress unintended switching from the first video to the second video, such as a commercial video being played during a match instead of a break. Furthermore, it is possible to prevent incorrect playback instructions for the second video on the reception screen displayed on the display units 45, 55, 65, and 75 of the management terminals 40, 50, 60, and 70. In addition, it is possible to determine whether the first part (e.g., during a match) or the second part (during a break) of the first video (e.g., a sports video) is being played on the display devices 11 and 21 by obtaining information that allows for real-time monitoring of the progress of the first video, for example, via the internet.

[0124] In the above embodiment, the instruction receiving units 15a and 25a of the display control devices 14 and 24 receive instructions to play a second video (e.g., a commercial video) via the reception screens displayed on the display units 45, 55, 65, and 75 of the management terminals 40, 50, 60, and 70. The management terminals 40, 50, 60, and 70 may set the display content of the second video that can be played on the reception screen based on the situation of stores A and B where the display devices 11 and 21 are installed (e.g., store location, capacity, congestion level, etc.). This allows for adjustment of the second video that can be played, taking into account the situation of stores A and B where the display devices 11 and 21 are installed, for example, from the viewpoint of conducting efficient advertising (more effectively targeting specific users). For example, a store with many soccer fans may be able to accept a second video related to soccer, while during less crowded times, a second video that promotes communication between customers may be able to accept it.

[0125] In the above embodiment, the management terminals 40, 50, 60, and 70 may set the display content of the second video that can be played back on the reception screen so that the second video (e.g., a commercial video) played on the display devices 11 and 21 during the second period (e.g., the morning) prior to the first period (e.g., the afternoon) is preferentially selected as the playback target during the first period, based on the status of stores A and B (location of the store, capacity, congestion level, etc.) during the second period. For example, an advertiser user may want more than a certain number of people to see the second video (advertisement). In this case, if they entered into an advertising contract expecting 100 people to watch the video, but only 10 customers at stores A and B, they will lose the advertising fee. Therefore, based on the past status (history) of stores A and B, if the second video was played when there were few customers, the reception screen may be set so that the second video continues to be preferentially selected at the same store or at a different large store (for example, by highlighting the second video more than other second videos, or by displaying that the number of viewers of the second video is low). This makes it possible to have more than a predetermined number of people watch the second video, thereby reducing the loss of advertising fees. Furthermore, the level of congestion (number of customers: 5) can be estimated from the store's capacity (e.g., 50 people) and vacancy rate (e.g., 90%). Based on the above, considering the situation of stores A and B where the display devices 11 and 21 are installed, the display content of the second video that can accept playback instructions can be adjusted so that the second video played in the earlier period is also selected as a playback target in the later period.

[0126] In the above embodiment, the instruction receiving units 15a and 25a of the display control devices 14 and 24 receive instructions to select a display device from among the multiple display devices 11 and 21 to play the second video (e.g., a commercial video) via the reception screen displayed on the display units 45, 55, 65, and 75 of the management terminals 40, 50, 60, and 70. The management terminals 40, 50, 60, and 70 may display store information regarding stores A and B where the multiple display devices 11 and 21 are installed, content information regarding the content of the first video (e.g., a sports video) played on the multiple display devices 11 and 21, and time information regarding the time the first video (e.g., a sports video) is played on the multiple display devices 11 and 21 on the reception screen. This allows the management terminals 40, 50, 60, and 70 to be presented with information (store information, content information, and time information) that can be used as a reference when appropriately selecting a display device from among the multiple display devices 11 and 21 to play the second video, for example, from the viewpoint of conducting efficient advertising (more effectively targeting specific users).

[0127] In the above embodiment, the management terminals 40, 50, 60, and 70 may configure display devices on the reception screen that allow selection of a second video (e.g., a commercial video) related to the advertising fee paid by the advertiser user. For example, the management terminals 40, 50, 60, and 70 may configure the display devices 11 and 21 on the reception screen that allow selection of a second video playback destination, such that if the advertising fee paid is small, only stores with limited capacity or those that are not crowded (have few customers) can be selected, and if the advertising fee is large, large stores or stores in urban areas can be selected. This allows for the appropriate configuration of display devices that can be selected as playback destinations for a second video, taking into account the advertising fee paid by the advertiser and ensuring that the advertising effect is commensurate with that fee.

[0128] It should be noted that the above embodiments merely represent examples of how the present invention may be implemented, and the technical scope of the present invention should not be interpreted as being limited by these embodiments. In other words, the present invention can be implemented in various forms without departing from its gist or its main features.

[0129] <Summary> [General tasks] One of the objectives of the present invention is to flexibly switch between videos played on a display device.

[0130] Issues corresponding to [Appendix 1] One of the objectives of the present invention is to flexibly switch the video to be played on the display device in response to a playback instruction. [Note 1] The system according to this embodiment includes a display control device, which receives a playback instruction for a second video from a management terminal to a display device that is playing a first video, switches the first video being played on the display device to the second video and plays it, and after the playback state of the second video satisfies predetermined conditions, switches the video to be played on the display device from the second video to the first video. According to the system described above, the video to be played on the display device can be flexibly switched in response to playback instructions.

[0131] Issues corresponding to [Appendix 2] One of the objectives of the present invention is to appropriately set the display content of a second video that can accept playback instructions, according to the second part contained in the first video. [Note 2] The system as described in Note 1, wherein the first video includes a first part and a second part, the display control device receives a playback instruction for any of the second videos from among multiple second videos via a reception screen displayed on the management terminal, and the management terminal sets the display content of the second videos for which playback instructions can be received on the reception screen according to the length or number of second parts. This allows the display content of the second video, which can accept playback instructions, to be appropriately set according to the second part contained in the first video.

[0132] Issues corresponding to [Appendix 3] One of the objectives of the present invention is to suppress unintended switching to a second video. [Note 3] The system according to Note 1 or 2, wherein the first video includes a first part and a second part, and the display control device switches the first video to the second video and plays it when the second part of the first video is being played on the display device, and suppresses the switch to the second video when the first part of the first video is being played on the display device. This helps to prevent unintended switching to the second video.

[0133] Issues corresponding to [Appendix 4] One of the objectives of the present invention is to adjust a second video that can receive playback instructions, taking into account the conditions of the store where the display device is installed. [Note 4] The system described in any of Notes 1 to 3, wherein the display control device receives instructions to play the second video via a reception screen displayed on the management terminal, and the management terminal sets the display content of the second video that can receive playback instructions on the reception screen based on the status of the store where the display device is installed. This allows for the adjustment of a second video that can accept playback instructions, taking into account the conditions of the store where the display device is installed.

[0134] Issues corresponding to [Appendix 5] One of the objectives of the present invention is to adjust the display content of a second video that can receive playback instructions, taking into account the circumstances of the store where the display device is installed, so that the second video played in the earlier period is also selected as the playback target in the later period. [Note 5] The system described in Note 4, wherein the management terminal sets the display content of the second video that can be played back on the display device during the second period, prior to the first period, based on the store's status during the second period, so that the second video played back on the display device during the second period is preferentially selected as the playback target during the first period. This allows the display content of the second video, which is available for playback, to be adjusted so that, taking into account the conditions of the store where the display device is installed, the second video played in the earlier period is also selected as the playback target in the later period.

[0135] Issues corresponding to [Appendix 6] One of the objectives of the present invention is to provide information that is useful in appropriately selecting a display device from among multiple display devices to play a second video. [Note 6] The display control device receives a selection instruction for the display device to play the second video from among multiple display devices via a reception screen displayed on the management terminal, and the management terminal displays store information regarding the store where multiple display devices are installed, content information regarding the content of the first video to be played on the multiple display devices, and time information regarding the time the first video is played on the multiple display devices, as described in any one of Notes 1 to 5. This allows for the presentation of information (store information, content information, time information) that is helpful in appropriately selecting the display device to play the second video from among multiple display devices.

[0136] Issues corresponding to [Appendix 7] One of the objectives of the present invention is to appropriately set a display device that can be selected as the playback destination for a second video, taking into account the advertising fees paid by the advertiser. [Note 7] The second video is a commercial video related to the advertising fee paid by the advertiser, and the management terminal sets a display device that can be selected as the playback destination for the second video on the reception screen based on the advertising fee, as described in Note 6. This allows for the appropriate configuration of the display device that can be selected as the playback destination for the second video, taking into account the advertising fees paid by the advertiser.

[0137] Issues corresponding to [Appendix 8] One of the objectives of the present invention is to flexibly switch the video to be played on the display device in response to a playback instruction. [Note 8] The display control device according to this embodiment comprises a reception unit and a control unit. The reception unit receives a playback instruction for a second video to a display device that is playing a first video. The control unit switches the first video being played on the display device to the second video and plays it. After the playback state of the second video satisfies predetermined conditions, the control unit switches the video to be played on the display device from the second video to the first video. According to the display control device described above, the video to be played on the display device can be flexibly switched in response to a playback command.

[0138] Issues corresponding to [Appendix 9] One of the objectives of the present invention is to flexibly switch the video to be played on the first display device in response to a playback instruction for the first display device selected from among a plurality of display devices. [Note 9] The information processing device according to this embodiment comprises a receiving unit and a transmitting unit. The receiving unit receives a playback instruction for a second video to a first display device selected from among a plurality of display devices. The transmitting unit transmits a control signal to a display control device that controls the playback of the video on the first display device to cause the second video to be played. The control signal controls the display control device to switch the first video being played on the first display device to the second video and play it, and after the playback state of the second video satisfies predetermined conditions, it switches the video to be played on the first display device from the second video to the first video. According to the above-described information processing device, the video to be played on the first display device can be flexibly switched in response to a playback instruction for the first display device selected from among multiple display devices.

[0139] Issues corresponding to [Appendix 10] One of the objectives of the present invention is to flexibly switch the video to be played on the display device in response to a playback instruction. [Note 10] The program according to this embodiment causes the processor to display a reception screen on the display unit for receiving instructions to play a second video on the display device, and causes the processor to send a control signal to the display control device which controls the playback of the video on the display device to play the second video. The control signal controls the display control device to switch the first video being played on the display device to the second video and play it, and after the playback state of the second video satisfies predetermined conditions, it switches the video to be played on the display device from the second video to the first video. According to the program described above, the video to be played on the display device can be flexibly switched in response to playback instructions.

[0140] Issues corresponding to [Appendix 11] One of the objectives of the present invention is to flexibly switch the video to be played on the display device in response to a playback instruction. [Note 11] The method according to this embodiment involves the processor receiving a playback instruction for a second video from a management terminal for a display device that is playing a first video, the processor switching the first video being played on the display device to the second video and playing it, and the processor switching the video to be played on the display device from the second video to the first video after the playback state of the second video satisfies predetermined conditions. According to the method described above, the video to be played on the display device can be flexibly switched in response to playback instructions. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0141] 1: Video playback system, 4, 5: Communication lines, 10, 20: Store systems, 11, 21: Display devices, 12, 22: Switching devices, 13, 23: Set-top boxes, 14, 24: Display control devices, 15, 25: Control units, 15a, 25a: Instruction receiving units, 15b, 25b: Display control units, 16, 26: Storage units, 17, 27: Communication units, 18, 28: System buses, 30: Information processing devices, 31: Control units, 31a: Instruction receiving Attachment section, 31b: Transmission control unit, 32: Storage unit, 33: Communication unit, 34: Operation input unit, 35: Display unit, 40, 50, 60, 70: Management terminal, 41, 51, 61, 71: Control unit, 42, 52, 62, 72: Storage unit, 43, 53, 63, 73: Communication unit, 44, 54, 64, 74: Operation input unit, 45, 55, 65, 75: Display unit, 80, 81, 82, 83, 84, 85, 86, 87, 88, 89, 90: Selection button

Claims

1. A system equipped with a display control device, The aforementioned display control device is The management terminal receives a command to play the second video on the display device that is currently playing the first video. The first video being played on the display device is switched to the second video and played back. After the playback state of the second video satisfies predetermined conditions, the display device switches the video to be played from the second video to the first video. system.

2. The aforementioned first video includes a first part and a second part, The display control device receives a playback instruction for any of the multiple second videos via the reception screen displayed on the management terminal. The management terminal sets the display content of the second video that can receive playback instructions on the reception screen according to the length or number of the second portion. The system according to claim 1.

3. The aforementioned first video includes a first part and a second part, The display control device, when the second portion of the first video is being played on the display device, switches the first video to the second video and plays it. In the display device, when the first portion of the first video is being played, the switching to the second video is suppressed. The system according to claim 1.

4. The display control device receives a playback instruction for the second video via the reception screen displayed on the management terminal. The management terminal sets the display content of the second video that can be played on the reception screen, based on the status of the store where the display device is installed. The system according to claim 1.

5. The management terminal sets the display content of the second video that can receive playback instructions on the reception screen, based on the store's status during the second period prior to the first period, so that the second video played on the display device during the second period is preferentially selected as the playback target during the first period. The system according to claim 4.

6. The display control device receives a selection instruction from among multiple display devices to be the playback destination for the second video via a reception screen displayed on the management terminal. The management terminal displays, on the reception screen, store information relating to the store where the multiple display devices are installed, content information relating to the content of the first video played on the multiple display devices, and time information relating to the time during which the first video is played on the multiple display devices. The system according to claim 1.

7. The second video mentioned above is a commercial video related to the advertising fees paid by the advertiser. The management terminal sets a display device that can be selected as the playback destination for the second video on the reception screen, based on the advertising fee. The system according to claim 6.

8. A display control device comprising a reception unit and a control unit, The reception unit receives a command to play the second video for the display device on which the first video is being played. The control unit, The first video being played on the display device is switched to the second video and played back. After the playback state of the second video satisfies predetermined conditions, the display device switches the video to be played from the second video to the first video. Display control device.

9. An information processing device comprising a reception unit and a transmission unit, The reception unit receives a playback instruction for the second video to the first display device selected from among the multiple display devices. The transmitting unit transmits a control signal to the display control device that controls the playback of the video on the first display device, for the purpose of playing the second video. The control signal controls the display control device to switch the first video being played on the first display device to the second video and play it, and after the playback state of the second video satisfies predetermined conditions, it is a signal to switch the video to be played on the first display device from the second video to the first video. Information processing device.

10. The processor is instructed to display a reception screen on the display unit that accepts a command to play the second video to the display device. The processor causes the display control device, which controls the playback of the video on the display device, to transmit a control signal for playing the second video. The aforementioned control signal controls the display control device, switches the first video being played on the display device to the second video and plays it, and after the playback state of the second video satisfies predetermined conditions, switches the video to be played on the display device from the second video to the first video. program.

11. The processor receives a command from the management terminal to play the second video on the display device that is currently playing the first video. The processor is instructed to switch the playback of the first video being played on the display device to the second video and play it back. The processor, after the playback state of the second video satisfies predetermined conditions, switches the video to be played on the display device from the second video to the first video. method.

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