Live streaming server, live streaming program, live streaming system

Abstract

We provide live streaming systems and other tools that enhance the loyalty of streamers. [Solution] In a live streaming system centered on a live streaming server that is communicatively connected to a streamer terminal and a user terminal, the server's processing unit includes a live control unit, a ticket control unit, and an item control unit. The live control unit manages a virtual space dedicated to the streamer and displays the streamer icon and multiple user icons within it. The ticket control unit manages the sale of tickets for users to watch live streams. The item control unit manages the sale of three types of items. Standard items can be displayed and used in the virtual spaces of all streamers and are not associated with any particular streamer. Original items can only be used in the virtual space of a specific streamer and are standard items with attributes associated with that streamer added. Dedicated items can only be used in the virtual space of a specific streamer and are designed entirely for that streamer.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a live streaming server.

Background Art

[0002] The present invention relates to a live streaming service via the Internet. In a conventional live streaming system, it has been common for viewers to be able to watch the stream for free. In this conventional model, a mechanism called "tipping" based on the voluntary kindness of viewers has been the main source of income. Specifically, viewers purchase paid virtual items and consume them within the virtual space during the stream to provide financial support to the streamer. This "tipping" system has become the income of the streamer and the capital for continuous streaming activities.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, in this conventional system, since "tipping" depends on the voluntary actions of viewers, the income of the streamer tends to be unstable (instability of income), and it is difficult to build a continuous relationship between viewers and the streamer with temporary "tipping" (difficulty in building a continuous relationship with viewers).

[0005] An object of the present invention is to provide a system that can solve the above problems.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] According to the present invention, A live streaming server that is connected to both the broadcaster's terminal and the user's terminal in a manner that enables communication between them, A live control unit that displays at least a streamer icon and multiple user icons in a virtual space dedicated to the streamer and delivers a live broadcast by the streamer to the user terminal, A ticket control unit that sells tickets to the user for viewing the aforementioned live performance, An item control unit that sells to the user: standard items that can be displayed and used within the virtual space of all said distributors and are not associated with any particular said distributor; original items that can be displayed and used only within the virtual space dedicated to said distributor and have attributes associated with said distributor in addition to the standard items; and exclusive items that can be displayed and used only within the virtual space dedicated to said distributor and are associated with said distributor. Equipped with, A live streaming server can be obtained. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] This invention proposes a system that introduces a paid ticket system and allows viewers to "own" items exclusive to the streamer. Specifically, viewers purchase tickets to watch live streams, thereby securing a stable source of income for the streamer. In addition, viewers can purchase items exclusive to the streamer and "own" them rather than "throw" them. This mechanism makes it possible to increase viewers' loyalty to the streamer. Furthermore, owning items is expected to motivate viewers to watch future streams, promoting the building of a continuous relationship between viewers and streamers.

[0008] Through this mechanism, the present invention aims to solve the problems of conventional models and simultaneously achieve stable revenue for broadcasters and customer acquisition for viewers. Furthermore, it is expected to more appropriately evaluate the value of content and promote the provision of high-quality live streaming. By introducing these new concepts, the present invention aims to bring innovation to the live streaming industry and realize a more attractive platform for both broadcasters and viewers. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] This figure shows an example configuration of a live streaming system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] Figure 1 is a diagram showing the configuration of the user terminal. [Figure 3] Figure 1 is a diagram showing the configuration of the broadcaster's terminal. [Figure 4] Figure 1 shows the configuration of the live streaming server. [Figure 5] This is an example of a live streaming screen from the present invention. [Figure 6] This is an example of a standard item used in live streaming according to the present invention. [Figure 7] This is another example of a live streaming screen from the present invention. [Figure 8] This is a functional block diagram of the processing unit in the live streaming server of the present invention. [Figure 9] This is an example of data managed by the item control unit in the live streaming server of the present invention. [Figure 10] These are examples of dedicated and original items used in live streaming according to the present invention. [Figure 11] This is a sequence diagram illustrating the operation of the live streaming server of the present invention. [Figure 12] This is an example of the settings screen for a live streamer according to the present invention. [Figure 13] This is an example of a live streaming screen from the present invention. [Figure 14] This is a sequence diagram illustrating other operations of the live streaming server of the present invention. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0010] The embodiments of the present invention will be described by listing them. The present invention has the following configuration. [Item 1] A live streaming server that is connected to both the broadcaster's terminal and the user's terminal in a manner that enables communication between them, A live control unit that displays at least a distributor icon and a plurality of user icons in the virtual space dedicated to the distributor and distributes a live broadcast by the distributor to the user terminal; A ticket control unit that sells tickets for viewing the live broadcast to the user; A standard item that can be displayed and used in the virtual space of all the distributors and is not associated with a specific distributor, an original item that can be displayed and used only in the virtual space dedicated to the distributor and has an attribute associated with the distributor for the standard item, and a dedicated item that can be displayed and used only in the virtual space dedicated to the distributor and is associated with the distributor, and an item control unit that sells them to the user; Comprising; A live distribution server. [Item 2] The live distribution server according to claim 1, The original item is the standard item with a color associated with the distributor attached thereto. A live distribution server. [Item 3] The live distribution server according to claim 1, The item control unit associates the originally purchased original item and the dedicated item as the user's held items and manages them so that they can be used in all live distributions of the distributor. A live distribution server. [Item 4] The live distribution server according to claim 1, The item control unit prompts the distributor to provide the design of the dedicated item. A live distribution server. [Item 5] In a live distribution server communicably connected to each of a distributor terminal and a user terminal, a live control step of displaying at least a distributor icon and a plurality of user icons in the virtual space dedicated to the distributor and distributing a live broadcast by the distributor to the user terminal; A ticket control step of selling tickets to the user for viewing the aforementioned live performance, An item control step for selling to the user: a standard item that can be displayed and used within the virtual space of all said distributors and is not associated with a specific said distributor; an original item that can be displayed and used only within the virtual space dedicated to said distributor and has attributes associated with said distributor in addition to the standard item; and a dedicated item that can be displayed and used only within the virtual space dedicated to said distributor and is associated with said distributor. A program to execute. [Item 6] A live control means that is connected to the broadcaster terminal and the user terminal in a communicative manner, displays at least a broadcaster icon and multiple user icons in a virtual space dedicated to the broadcaster, and delivers a live broadcast by the broadcaster to the user terminal. A ticket control means for selling tickets to the user for viewing the aforementioned live performance, The system includes an item control means for selling to the user: standard items that can be displayed and used within the virtual space of all said broadcasters and are not associated with any particular said broadcaster; original items that can be displayed and used only within the virtual space dedicated to said broadcaster and have attributes associated with said broadcaster in addition to the standard items; and exclusive items that can be displayed and used only within the virtual space dedicated to said broadcaster and are associated with said broadcaster. Live streaming system. [Item 7] A live streaming server that is connected to both the broadcaster's terminal and the user's terminal in a manner that enables communication between them, A live control unit that displays at least a streamer icon and multiple user icons in a virtual space dedicated to the streamer and delivers a live broadcast by the streamer to the user terminal, A ticket control unit that sells tickets to the user for viewing the aforementioned live performance, and which displays information for selling tickets to other live performances to the user during the live performance in response to the broadcaster's operation, Live streaming server. [Item 8] A live streaming server that is connected to both the broadcaster's terminal and the user's terminal in a manner that allows communication between them, A live control step that displays at least a streamer icon and multiple user icons in a virtual space dedicated to the streamer and delivers a live broadcast by the streamer to the user terminal, A ticket control step for selling tickets to the user to view the live performance, comprising: a ticket control step for displaying information for selling tickets to other live performances to the user during the live performance in response to the broadcaster's operation; A program to execute. [Item 9] A live control means that is connected to the broadcaster terminal and the user terminal in a communicative manner, displays at least a broadcaster icon and multiple user icons in a virtual space dedicated to the broadcaster, and delivers a live broadcast by the broadcaster to the user terminal. A ticket control means for selling tickets to the user to view the aforementioned live performance, wherein, in response to the broadcaster's operation, information for selling tickets to other live performances to the user is displayed during the live performance. Live streaming system.

[0011] <Embodiment> Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0012] <Overview> This invention relates to a server system that provides an innovative live streaming service. The system is centered around a live streaming server that is communicatively connected to broadcaster terminals and user terminals. The core of the server consists of three main components: a live control unit, a ticket control unit, and an item control unit. The live control unit manages a virtual space dedicated to broadcasters and displays broadcaster icons and multiple user icons within it. It also handles the function of delivering live broadcasts from broadcasters to user terminals through this virtual space. The ticket control unit manages the sale of tickets for users to watch live broadcasts. This simultaneously achieves access management and monetization. The item control unit manages the sale of three types of items. First, standard items can be displayed and used in all broadcasters' virtual spaces and are not associated with any particular broadcaster. Second, original items can only be used in a specific broadcaster's virtual space and are standard items with attributes associated with that broadcaster added. Finally, dedicated items can only be used in a specific broadcaster's virtual space and are items designed exclusively for that broadcaster. The features of this system are that it provides an immersive streaming experience by utilizing a virtual space and simultaneously generates revenue through the sale of tickets and items. Furthermore, by offering a variety of items, the platform allows for customization to suit user preferences, creating an attractive platform for both broadcasters and users.

[0013] <Functional Configuration> The configuration of the live streaming system (LHSY) of this embodiment will now be described. As shown in Figure 1, the live streaming system (LHSY) of this embodiment includes a plurality of user terminals UT1 to UTm (where m is an integer of 1 or more) and a broadcaster terminal HT. As shown in Figure 1, the plurality of user terminals UT1 to UTm and the broadcaster terminal HT are interconnected via a network (e.g., the Internet).

[0014] Multiple user terminals UT1 to UTm are used by multiple users US1 to USm to view the streamed video HE (e.g., video of performances, presentations, or recitations) streamed by the streamer HS. For example, user terminal UT1 is used by user US1, user terminal UT2 is used by user US2, ..., user terminal UTm is used by user USm. Streamer terminal HT is used by streamer HS, who streams the aforementioned streamed video HE. In the following, for the sake of ease of explanation and understanding, multiple names may be collectively referred to as a single name; for example, multiple users US1 to USm may be collectively referred to as user US.

[0015] <User Terminal UT Configuration> The user terminal UT of this embodiment, as shown in Figure 2, includes an input / output unit NS(UT), a processing unit SY(UT), a storage unit KI(UT), and a communication unit TU(UT). The input / output unit NS(UT) is used by the user US to view, for example, a virtual live space video KK (for example, shown in Figure 5) including a streamed video HE, and to control or purchase the operation of an item AI (for example, shown in Figures 6 and 7) (described later). The input / output unit NS(UT) is composed of, for example, a touch panel. The processing unit SY(UT) performs, for example, processing related to viewing the virtual live space video KK and controlling the operation of the item AI. The storage unit KI(UT) stores, for example, data necessary for the processing of the processing unit SY(UT). The communication unit TU(UT) communicates via a network and, for example, receives the virtual live space video KK from the streamer terminal HT and transmits the control of the operation of the item AI to the streamer terminal HT.

[0016] <Distributor Terminal HT Configuration> The broadcaster terminal HT of this embodiment, as shown in Figure 3, includes an input / output unit NS(HT), a processing unit SY(HT), a storage unit KI(HT), and a communication unit TU(HT). The input / output unit NS(HT) is used, for example, for the broadcaster HS to view the virtual live space video KK, and in particular, to display icon images AG1~AGm and item AI for multiple users US1~USm. The input / output unit NS(HT) is composed of, for example, a touch panel. The processing unit SY(HT) performs, for example, processing related to viewing the virtual live space video KK and displaying the icon images AG and item AI. The storage unit KI(HT) stores, for example, data necessary for processing by the processing unit SY(HT). The communication unit TU(HT) communicates via the network and, for example, transmits the broadcast video HE to user terminals UT1~UTm and receives control of the operation of item AI from user terminals UT1~UTm.

[0017] <Configuration of the live streaming server LHS> The live streaming server LHS of this embodiment, as shown in Figure 4, comprises a processing unit SY(LHS), a storage unit KI(LHS), and a communication unit TU(LHS). The input / output unit NS(LHS) is used, for example, by an administrator to operate the entire live streaming server. The input / output unit NS(LHS) can be any interface necessary for the administrator to manage the server. The processing unit SY(LHS) performs processing related to the distribution of the virtual live space video KK, control of Tsuketto and items (details will be described later), for example. The storage unit KI(LHS) stores data necessary for the processing of the processing unit SY(LHS). The communication unit TU(LHS) communicates over the network and, for example, transmits the streamed video HE to user terminals UT1~UTm and receives information and operation instructions necessary for streaming from the streamer terminal (HT).

[0018] <Functional block diagram of the live streaming server>

[0019] As shown in Figure 8, the processing unit SY of the live streaming server LHS according to this embodiment includes a live control unit LSG, a ticket control unit CSG, and an item control unit ISG.

[0020] The Live Control Unit LSG displays the broadcaster icon received from the broadcaster terminal and user icons received from multiple user terminals within the virtual space dedicated to the broadcaster. It then broadcasts the live stream conducted by the broadcaster within the virtual space to the user terminals.

[0021] The ticket control unit CSG sells tickets to users to view the live performance via the user terminal. Only users who have purchased a ticket can view the live performance distributed by the live performance control unit LSG.

[0022] As shown in Figure 9, the item control unit ISG sells standard items (see Figure 6), original items (see Figure 10), and dedicated items (see Figure 10) to the user via the user terminal.

[0023] Standard items are items that can be displayed and used within the virtual space of all said broadcasters and are not associated with any particular said broadcaster.

[0024] Original items are items that can only be displayed and used within the virtual space reserved for the aforementioned streamer. These original items are created by adding attributes (colors) associated with the streamer to the standard items. In other words, original items are based on standard items but possess characteristics unique to each streamer.

[0025] Exclusive items are items that can only be displayed and used within the virtual space designated for the streamer, and are associated only with that streamer. In other words, exclusive items are original items created specifically for a particular streamer.

[0026] More specifically, as shown in Figure 7, Item AI1 is a long, slender, rod-shaped item. This item mimics the shape of penlights and other items widely used at live events. Item AI2 is a ring. These items are not associated with any particular streamer and are configured to behave the same way, such as glowing in the same color, across all streamers' virtual spaces. In other words, you can use these items to cheer on any streamer's live performance with the same effects.

[0027] On the other hand, Figure 11 shows an example screen of the original item and the dedicated item in this embodiment. The "original penlight" and "original ring" are of the same type as the standard item described above (Figure 7), but they are assigned attributes such as color and the color of light that are associated with the broadcaster.

[0028] Furthermore, the "Katsuo Penlight" is a special item designed specifically for streamers, while being based on the "Penlight," which is an example of a dedicated item. In other words, the concept and shape of Katsuo are completely different from those of the standard item.

[0029] All of these items have their sales prices set by the Item Control Unit (ISG), as indicated by the "Special Action" label in the upper right of Figure 1. They also have the information "Expiration Date: 1 year" attached, meaning that the item can be held and used for a specified period (1 year) from the date of purchase.

[0030] Original items are standard items with attributes associated with the streamer added, but the following attributes may also be added: Specifically, the streamer's logo or symbol mark may be added to the standard item, or the design or pattern may be changed. In addition, the shape of the standard item may be partially changed to match the streamer's image, such as making the tip of the penlight star-shaped. Furthermore, the size of the item may be changed or the material feel of the standard item may be changed depending on the streamer. In addition, it is possible to change the sound effects and particle effects when the item is shaken or tapped for each streamer, or to play animations associated with the streamer when the item is moved in a specific way. By adding these attributes individually or in combination, it is possible to provide original items that better reflect the individuality of the streamer.

[0031] In this embodiment, an attractive live viewing environment is provided to users by offering a variety of items that reflect the individuality of the streamers. By purchasing original and exclusive items, users can express their support and encouragement for their favorite streamers.

[0032] In the live streaming server LHS according to this embodiment, the item control unit ISG manages original items and dedicated items purchased once, associating them with the items owned by the purchasing user. This allows users to repeatedly use items they have purchased in all of that streamer's live streams. In other words, users can express their identity as fans of each streamer by purchasing and collecting different items for each streamer. Streamers also benefit from this, as it makes it easier to gain repeat viewers.

[0033] Furthermore, in the live streaming server LHS according to this embodiment, the item control unit ISG prompts streamers to provide designs for exclusive items. Specifically, it provides a function that allows streamers to post their own original item designs through a management screen for streamers. This allows streamers to provide items that more directly express their personality and enhance engagement with their fans. Users will also be able to gain a stronger sense of connection and satisfaction by obtaining items that their favorite streamers helped design.

[0034] Thus, the live streaming server LHS according to this embodiment controls the purchase, ownership, and use of original and dedicated items, thereby realizing a live streaming service that offers high added value to both streamers and users, unlike conventional "tipping" items that are consumed (disappear).

[0035] <Live streaming server operation> As shown in Figure 11, a user accesses the live streaming server LHS by operating their user terminal (SQ001). When a user purchases a ticket to watch the live stream, the ticket control unit CSG of the live streaming server LHS sells the ticket via the user terminal (SQ002~SQ003). Only users who have purchased a ticket can watch the live stream distributed by the live control unit LSG.

[0036] Subsequently, the live control unit LSG of the live streaming server LHS displays the streamer icon received from the streamer terminal and the user icons received from multiple user terminals within the virtual space for each streamer (SQ004~SQ009). Then, it provides the user terminals with the live stream conducted by the streamer within the virtual space.

[0037] Furthermore, when a user purchases an item, the item control unit ISG of the live streaming server LHS presents standard items, original items, and exclusive items to the user's terminal and sells them according to the user's selection. Purchased items are managed by the item control unit ISG as items owned by the user (SQ010~SQ011).

[0038] Furthermore, if a streamer creates and provides a design for a dedicated item, the item control unit ISG of the live streaming server LHS will provide the streamer's terminal with a screen for submitting the design (SQ012~SQ014). Designs created by the streamer will be sold to users through the item control unit ISG.

[0039] <Other Embodiments> <Overview> The live streaming server of the present invention provides a virtual space exclusively for the streamer, and by displaying the streamer icon and user icons within that space, it realizes an immersive live streaming experience. Furthermore, by selling tickets for live viewing and providing various customizable items for each streamer, it increases the viewer's desire to participate and provides a viewing experience that reflects the individuality of the streamer.

[0040] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 12 and 13, the live streaming server of the present invention is equipped with a function to display information for selling tickets to other live events during a live stream in response to the streamer's operation. This encourages viewers to participate in future live events and expands revenue opportunities for the streamer.

[0041] <Live Announcement> The live control unit generates a virtual space exclusively for the broadcaster and displays at least the broadcaster's icon and multiple user icons within that virtual space. The broadcaster icon contains information such as the broadcaster's image and name, while the user icons contain information such as the images and names of the users watching the live stream. The live control unit distributes live video data received from the broadcaster's terminal to the user's terminal. Based on the broadcaster's settings, it also displays a banner during the live stream for users to purchase tickets for the next live event. This banner is linked, allowing users to purchase tickets for the next event with a single click.

[0042] <Ticket Control Department> The ticket control unit sells tickets to users to watch live streams. Tickets include single tickets for watching a single live stream and subscription tickets that allow access to multiple live streams. When a user purchases a ticket, the ticket control unit associates the user information with the ticket information and stores it in the database. When the live stream starts, the ticket control unit checks the user's ticket ownership status and implements access control so that only users who own tickets can view the live stream.

[0043] <Operation of the ticket control unit> The process flow of the present invention will be explained with reference to Figure 14.

[0044] <Ticket purchase request and ticket sales processing> The streamer can choose whether or not to display the banner for purchasing tickets for the next stream during the live broadcast (Figure 12).

[0045] A viewer submits a ticket purchase request to the ticket control unit. This request indicates the viewer's intention to purchase a ticket to watch the live stream. Upon receiving the ticket purchase request, the ticket control unit begins the ticket sales process. This process includes checking ticket availability, processing payment, and generating ticket information. Once the ticket sales process is complete, the ticket control unit sends a ticket purchase completion notification to the viewer. This notification allows the viewer to confirm that their ticket has been successfully purchased.

[0046] <Start of live stream and notification to ticket control unit> The streamer begins the live broadcast. At this point, viewers have already purchased tickets and are able to watch the live broadcast. The live broadcasting unit notifies viewers and the ticket control unit that the live broadcast has started. This notification allows the ticket control unit to begin any necessary processing during the live broadcast (such as displaying other live ticket sales information).

[0047] <Displaying information about ticket sales for the next live stream and purchasing tickets during the live broadcast> During a live stream, the ticket control unit displays a banner to viewers for purchasing tickets to the next live stream. The information displayed on the banner may include the date and time of the next live stream, the ticket price, and any special offers. If a viewer sees the information about the next live stream ticket sales from the same streamer and is interested, they send a request to the ticket control unit to purchase a ticket for the next live stream. The ticket control unit processes the ticket sales in response to other live ticket purchase requests from viewers. Once the ticket sales process for other live stream tickets is complete, the ticket control unit sends a ticket purchase completion notification to the viewer.

[0048] <End of live stream and aggregation / storage of sales data> The live streaming department notifies the ticketing department that the live stream has ended. Upon receiving the notification, the ticketing department compiles and saves the sales data related to the live stream. This process allows the streamer to evaluate their live performance and use the results to improve future live streams.

[0049] <Variation> The following describes some variations of the live streaming system according to this embodiment.

[0050] <Example 1> Modification 1 of the present invention is as follows: A live streaming system equipped with a preview function for unpurchased items. This system has an unpurchased item information acquisition function, an unpurchased item placement processing function, a purchase processing function, and a purchased item placement processing function. The unpurchased item information acquisition function acquires information on items that the user has not yet purchased. The unpurchased item placement processing function temporarily places the unpurchased items in the virtual live space, equipped to the user's avatar, based on the acquired unpurchased item information. The purchase processing function executes the purchase process if the user decides to purchase the unpurchased item. The purchased item placement processing function formally places the purchased item in the virtual live space after the purchase process. This function allows the user to check the appearance and effect of an item before purchasing it, supporting their purchase decision. Furthermore, by allowing users to temporarily try out items during the live stream, it is expected to encourage immediate purchases.

[0051] <Modification 2> A second modification of the present invention is as follows: a live streaming system with a restricted area. This system has a restricted area information management function, an entry status determination function, an entry permission / denial determination function, and a restricted area viewing control function. The restricted area information management function sets a restricted area within the virtual live space and manages its information. The entry status determination function determines whether a user avatar is attempting to enter the restricted area. The entry permission / denial determination function determines whether entry into the restricted area is permitted based on the user's privileges and item possession status. The restricted area viewing control function controls viewing of virtual live space information within the restricted area based on the entry permission / denial determination result. This function makes it possible to set areas that can only be entered by users with specific tickets or privileges, such as VIP seats or special areas.

[0052] <Variation 3> A third modification of the present invention is as follows: a live streaming system with a portal function. This system has a portal installation instruction receiving function and a portal installation processing function. The portal installation instruction receiving function receives instructions to install portals that connect different virtual live spaces. The portal installation processing function installs a portal in the specified virtual live space based on the received installation instructions. This function makes it possible to connect multiple virtual live spaces and hold multi-stage events where users can move freely between them.

[0053] <Modification 4> A fourth modification of the present invention is as follows: a live streaming system having an item motion control function according to conditions. This system has an avatar information management function, an item information management function, an operation reception function, and an output control function. The avatar information management function manages the user's avatar information. The item information management function manages item display information and item motion information. The operation reception function accepts operations from the user. The output control function selects an appropriate output mode based on item conditions and controls the movement of items and avatars. This function makes it possible to provide a more dynamic and engaging live experience depending on the type and situation of the items.

[0054] <Modification 5> A fifth modification of the present invention is as follows: a live streaming system with a score-based avatar processing function. This system has an avatar information management function, a score calculation function, and a score-based avatar processing function. The avatar information management function manages the avatar information of each user. The score calculation function calculates a score using the attribute values ​​of the avatar. The score-based avatar processing function controls the display and movement of the avatar according to the calculated score. This function makes it possible to encourage continued user participation and consumption, and to provide a more dynamic and engaging live experience.

[0055] <Variation 6> A sixth modification of the present invention is as follows: a live streaming system having an avatar display control function according to data size. This system has an avatar model management function, an avatar display determination function, and an avatar acquisition / output function. The avatar model management function manages the first model information and second model information of each avatar. The avatar display determination function assigns the avatars to be displayed to the first model and the second model. The avatar acquisition / output function acquires appropriate model information based on the determination and outputs the avatar. This function makes it possible to appropriately display avatars that are important to users while keeping the system processing load down, even in large-scale live events with many users participating.

[0056] <Example 7> Modification 7 of the present invention is as follows: A live streaming system with a binocular stereoscopic content distribution function. This system has a 3D space management function, a performer character control function, a sub-character control function, a viewpoint control function, and a part management function. The 3D space management function manages the 3D space in which the performer character and sub-character are placed. The performer character control function controls the behavior of the performer character based on the performer's body movement information. The sub-character control function controls the behavior of the sub-character based on user input. The viewpoint control function controls the viewpoint according to user operation and generates an appropriate 3D image. The part management function manages a first part without a defined viewing position and a second part for a predetermined viewing position, and switches between them appropriately. This function makes it possible to provide an innovative live experience that is even more immersive than conventional 2D live streaming.

[0057] <Differentiation Example 8> Modification 8 of the present invention is as follows: A live streaming system with an adaptive data distribution function. This system has an avatar location and behavior information receiving function, a transmission rate determination function, and an adaptive data transmission function. The avatar location and behavior information receiving function sequentially receives location and behavior information of each user's avatar. The transmission rate determination function dynamically determines the data transmission rate to each user based on the distance between avatars. The adaptive data transmission function transmits information of other avatars to each user based on the determined transmission rate. This function makes it possible to maintain real-time interaction while minimizing communication delays and processing delays, even in large-scale live events with many users participating.

[0058] <Modification 9> Modification 9 of the present invention is as follows: A live streaming system with a virtual product sales function. This system has a product object management function, an exhibition object placement function, a product information display function, and a product sales processing function. The product object management function manages product objects to be sold in the virtual live space. The exhibition object placement function places exhibition objects related to product objects in the virtual live space. The product information display function displays information about product objects in response to user operations. The product sales processing function processes the sale of product objects based on user purchase operations. This function makes it possible to create a new revenue stream during live streaming and increase user engagement.

[0059] <Variation 10> The ticket control unit displays ticket sales information for other live events based on viewer behavior (e.g., viewing time, number of comments, number of items purchased). In this modified version, the likelihood of ticket purchase can be increased by displaying more frequent ticket sales information or more personalized information when viewer engagement is high. <Variation 11> The ticket control unit displays ticket sales information for other live events in a dynamic format that includes animations and interactive elements, rather than as a static banner. For example, displaying ticket sales information in a pop-up format or showing additional information when the viewer mouses over it can attract the viewer's attention and guide them towards purchasing tickets. <Variation 12> The ticket control unit displays ticket sales information in conjunction with the streamer's use of voice and gestures to promote tickets for other live events. For example, when a streamer says, "We have a new event planned for the next live show!", the system automatically displays ticket sales information for the next live show, maximizing the streamer's promotional effect and increasing ticket purchase rates.

[0060] The embodiments described above are merely illustrative to facilitate understanding of the present invention and are not intended to limit its interpretation. The present invention can be modified and improved without departing from its spirit, and it goes without saying that the present invention includes equivalents thereof. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0061] LHSY Live Streaming System LHS Live Streaming Server HT Streamer Terminal UT User Terminal

Claims

1. A live streaming server that is connected to both the broadcaster's terminal and the user's terminal in a manner that enables communication between them, A live control unit that displays at least a streamer icon and multiple user icons in a virtual space dedicated to the streamer and delivers a live broadcast by the streamer to the user terminal, A ticket control unit that sells tickets to the user for viewing the aforementioned live performance, An item control unit that sells to the user: standard items that can be displayed and used within the virtual space of all said distributors and are not associated with any particular said distributor; original items that can be displayed and used only within the virtual space dedicated to said distributor and have attributes associated with said distributor in addition to the standard items; and exclusive items that can be displayed and used only within the virtual space dedicated to said distributor and are associated with said distributor. Equipped with, Live streaming server.

2. A live streaming server according to claim 1, The aforementioned original item is the aforementioned standard item with a color associated with the distributor. Live streaming server.

3. A live streaming server according to claim 1, The item control unit associates the original item and the dedicated item, once purchased, as items owned by the user, and manages them so that they can be used in all of the streamer's live broadcasts. Live streaming server.

4. A live streaming server according to claim 1, The item control unit prompts the distributor to provide the design of the dedicated item. Live streaming server.

5. A live control step involves a live streaming server, which is connected to both the streamer's terminal and the user's terminal in a communication-enabled manner, displaying at least the streamer's icon and multiple user icons in a virtual space dedicated to the streamer, and then streaming the live broadcast by the streamer to the user's terminal. A ticket control step of selling tickets to the user for viewing the aforementioned live performance, An item control step for selling to the user: a standard item that can be displayed and used within the virtual space of all said distributors and is not associated with a specific said distributor; an original item that can be displayed and used only within the virtual space dedicated to said distributor and has attributes associated with said distributor in addition to the standard item; and a dedicated item that can be displayed and used only within the virtual space dedicated to said distributor and is associated with said distributor. A program to execute.

6. A live control means that is connected to the broadcaster terminal and the user terminal in a communicative manner, displays at least a broadcaster icon and multiple user icons in a virtual space dedicated to the broadcaster, and delivers a live broadcast by the broadcaster to the user terminal. A ticket control means for selling tickets to the user for viewing the aforementioned live performance, The system includes an item control means for selling to the user: standard items that can be displayed and used within the virtual space of all said broadcasters and are not associated with any particular said broadcaster; original items that can be displayed and used only within the virtual space dedicated to said broadcaster and have attributes associated with said broadcaster in addition to the standard items; and exclusive items that can be displayed and used only within the virtual space dedicated to said broadcaster and are associated with said broadcaster. Live streaming system.

7. A live streaming server that is connected to both the broadcaster's terminal and the user's terminal in a manner that enables communication between them, A live control unit that displays at least a streamer icon and multiple user icons in a virtual space dedicated to the streamer and delivers a live broadcast by the streamer to the user terminal, A ticket control unit that sells tickets to the user for viewing the aforementioned live performance, and which displays information for selling tickets to other live performances to the user during the live performance in response to the broadcaster's operation, Live streaming server.

8. A live streaming server that is connected to both the broadcaster's terminal and the user's terminal in a manner that allows communication between them, A live control step that displays at least a streamer icon and multiple user icons in a virtual space dedicated to the streamer and delivers a live broadcast by the streamer to the user terminal, A ticket control step for selling tickets to the user to view the live performance, comprising: a ticket control step for displaying information for selling tickets to other live performances to the user during the live performance in response to the broadcaster's operation; A program to execute.

9. A live control means that is connected to the broadcaster terminal and the user terminal in a communicative manner, displays at least a broadcaster icon and multiple user icons in a virtual space dedicated to the broadcaster, and delivers a live broadcast by the broadcaster to the user terminal. A ticket control means for selling tickets to the user to view the aforementioned live performance, wherein, in response to the broadcaster's operation, information for selling tickets to other live performances to the user is displayed during the live performance. Live streaming system.

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