Video content distribution system and television receiver

Abstract

To enable a list display of metadata for selecting video content provided by a plurality of server systems.SOLUTION: The present invention relates to a distribution system for television that is composed of a plurality of server systems that distribute video content, an intermediate shared server that receives and converts metadata for selecting video content, and a receiving terminal that receives the video content and the converted metadata, and that allows easy selection of video content distributed via communication by presenting video content provided by a plurality of servers on the same screen in a mixed screen that is easy for a viewer to understand, such as by category.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a video content distribution system and a television receiver, and more particularly to a metadata-based television distribution system that is composed of multiple server systems that distribute video content, an intermediate shared server that receives and converts metadata for selecting video content, and a receiving terminal that receives the video content and the converted metadata, and that allows viewers to easily select video content distributed via communication by presenting video content provided by multiple servers on the same screen in an easy-to-understand mixed screen organized by content genre, region, or other category. [Background technology]

[0002] In recent years, advances in networks have led to the launch of a wide range of video distribution services. In particular, large-screen television receivers can now not only receive broadcasts as before, but also connect to networks and play distributed videos, allowing viewers to enjoy higher-quality, more realistic video. This has become possible thanks to faster networks and improved processing capabilities in television receivers, and it is expected that in the future, there will be even more opportunities to display and operate a variety of video content provided over networks on television receivers.

[0003] In this situation, viewers desire an easier way to select their preferred video content from the many types of video content available via communication. Video content distributors, or video content providers, are also making efforts to make it easier for viewers to select video content. In this environment, multiple video content providers are distributing a variety of video content to viewers, and the number of video content providers has increased significantly and is expected to continue to increase.

[0004] Providers of such video content typically use metadata to explain the content to viewers so that they can understand the content when they watch it. Metadata here refers to data that defines the title, summary, cast, etc. of the video content, and can also provide image information such as thumbnails to make it easier for viewers to understand.

[0005] The number of content providers offering video content over networks is increasing every year, allowing viewers to choose from a wider range of video content. However, as the number of video content providers increases, viewers are forced to select content from each video content provider, as each provider provides different metadata to viewers. In this situation, viewers select their preferred video content from the selected video content provider. However, if they cannot find the desired content, they are forced to go to another video content provider and select the desired video content again, a complex process. Furthermore, current television receivers require remote control operation to select programs, which is relatively simple compared to personal computers and smartphones, forcing viewers to perform more complicated operations. However, television receivers have more advanced screens than personal computers and smartphones, making it possible to present a large amount of information on the screen at once.

[0006] As such, viewers of video content want a way to select their preferred video content from a wide variety of video content providers with simpler operations using the large screen features of television receivers and remote controls. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0007] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2000-253367 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0008] The present invention relates to a television distribution system that is composed of multiple server systems that distribute video content, an intermediate shared server that receives and converts metadata for selecting video content, and a receiving terminal that receives the video content and the converted metadata, and that is capable of receiving the metadata and displaying a list of metadata for selecting video content provided by the multiple server systems.

[0009] In particular, the distribution system according to the present invention makes it possible to display a list of metadata sent from a server system that provides multiple video distribution contents on a television screen, thereby improving the convenience for viewers of video content to select their preferred video content with simpler operations.

[0010] The intermediate shared server method is a distribution system that can process metadata provided by different video distribution servers in a common manner. With this method, the intermediate shared server can convert metadata provided by multiple different distribution servers, and the television receiver can use the metadata in a uniform process to present a content selection screen to the viewer.

[0011] This example is an excellent distribution system that improves the convenience of viewer video content selection. However, there are the following issues when trying to display metadata provided by different distribution servers on the same screen at the same time.

[0012] 1) Although metadata is shared through processing by the intermediate shared server, the processing unit is limited to each distribution server, and metadata is closed to each operator that operates the distribution server. 2) When presenting content categorized by genre, region, etc. across different distribution servers, the processing unit is each distribution server, so viewers will need to make multiple selections, such as switching providers. 3) When presenting video content from content providers in a program guide or the like, the order of content providers is fixed, making it impossible to realize a flexible arrangement.

[0013] To address the above-mentioned problems, the present invention provides the following solutions.

[0014] 1) By introducing an identifier that transcends different distribution servers, it will be possible to present a wider range of video content in lists and by category. 2) By introducing program list information that transcends each distribution server, video content can be arranged freely without relying on each distribution server. 3) Video content can be presented in order of category based on the viewer's preferences, making it possible to select video content with simpler operations.

[0015] An example of a conventional video distribution system is shown in FIG.

[0016] The distribution system 1100 is composed of a distribution content unit 1101, an encoder 1102, a distribution unit 1103, and a program information unit 1104. The video content output from the distribution content unit 1101 is compressed by the encoder 1102 and input to the distribution unit 1103. The distribution unit 1103 outputs a video and audio stream to a stream distribution network 1400.

[0017] The output of the program information unit 1104 is output to the receiving unit 1501 of the intermediate shared server 1500. The program information unit 11104 generates metadata for program selection and outputs it to the intermediate shared server 1500.

[0018] Distribution system 1200 is composed of a distribution content unit 1201, an encoder 1202, a distribution unit 1203, and a program information unit 1204, and distribution system 1300 is composed of a distribution content unit 1301, an encoder 1302, a distribution unit 1303, and a program information unit 1304, and distribution systems 1200 and 1300 operate in the same manner as distribution system 1100.

[0019] The intermediate shared server 1500 is composed of a receiving unit 1501, a program information storage unit 1503, and a transmitting unit 1502. The receiving unit 1501 receives metadata output from the distribution systems 1100, 1200, and 1300, and stores it in the program information storage unit 1503. The metadata transmitted from each distribution system is integrated by the program information storage unit 1503, and then transmitted by the transmitting unit 1502 to the television receivers 1600 and 1700. In this embodiment, a configuration with three distribution systems and two television receivers is exemplified, but even if the number of distribution systems and television receivers increases, this can be accommodated by improving the receiving and transmitting capabilities of the intermediate shared server.

[0020] The television receiver 1600 is composed of a receiving unit 1603, a decoder 1602, a content display unit 1601, a program information processing unit 1604, a selection screen unit 1605, a control unit 1606, and a remote control 1607. The receiving unit 1603 receives a video and audio stream transmitted via the stream distribution network 1400 and outputs it to the decoder 1602. The decoder decompresses the compressed video and audio stream, restoring it to the original video content and outputting it to the content display unit 1601. Meanwhile, the program information processing unit 1604 receives metadata transmitted from the intermediate shared server 1500 and outputs the results of processing the metadata to the selection screen 1605. The selection screen unit creates a screen for program selection and outputs the results to the content display unit 1601. Here, the viewer uses the remote control 1607 to send commands to the control unit 1606 to execute predetermined processing.

[0021] The television receiver 1700 is made up of a receiving unit 1703, a decoder 1702, a content display unit 1701, a program information processing unit 1704, a selection screen unit 1705, a control unit 1706, and a remote control 1707. The television receiver 1700 operates in the same manner as the television receiver 1600.

[0022] FIG. 11 shows a conventional example of metadata.

[0023] Metadata is a symbol for defining data, and defines metadata symbols and associates them with specific data.

[0024] The format of the metadata will be explained using the channel information 2060 as an example.

[0025] Channel information 2060 has a service ID 2061, a service name 2062, and a service logo 2063 as elements. Here, the display format of the metadata is determined by defining each symbol and then determining the value. For example, if the service ID 2061 is defined as service_id, the service name as service_name, and the service logo as service_logo_url, the values ​​are determined as follows:

[0026] ·service_id:100. ·service_name:Channel A ·service_logo_url:http: / / www.aaa.co.jp / logo

[0027] Here, each value is shown as an example. More specifically, a JSON (JavaScript Object Notation) format or the like is used. JSON is defined in IETF STD 90 RFC8259.

[0028] The program guide displays content in a TV guide format to select video content for x-month-x-year and x-day. Here, program guide information 2050 for x-month-x-year and x-day includes program information list 2051, which can store a plurality of pieces of program information 2080 as a list. A program guide screen is constructed from the plurality of pieces of program information 2080 included in program information list 2051. Program ID 2081, which is an element of program information 2080, is used to identify the program information, the value of program name 2082 is displayed as the title of the program guide screen, program description 2083 is displayed as the program description in the program guide, and program thumbnail 2086 is displayed as a thumbnail on the program guide screen. In addition, program start time 2084 is displayed as the time on the program guide screen, and information such as the title is displayed in an area corresponding to program length 2085.

[0029] The program genre 2087 indicates the attributes of the video content, such as news, sports, and entertainment. The program guide screen can be configured with three types of programs: current programs that can be viewed now, future programs that will be available to view in the future, and past programs that have already been distributed, and the video information 2010 corresponding to each is applied. The video information of the current program is specified by the current program video ID 2088, the video information of the future program is specified by the future program video ID 2089, and the video information of the past program is specified by the past program video ID 2090.

[0030] Video information 2010 has a video ID 2016 for identification from external information, and furthermore, a content name 2017 indicates the title of the video content. Content description 2018 shows an overview of the video content, video thumbnail 2019 is used as a thumbnail for the video content, and video genre 2020 indicates whether the video content belongs to a certain genre, such as news, sports, or entertainment. Video URL 2021 indicates a URL (Uniform Resource Locator) for specifying a server that distributes video and audio streams, performer names 2022 indicate the actors appearing in the video content, and staff 2023 indicates the director or other person who produced the video content.

[0031] The above operation is the operation of a program guide for a specific channel at a specific date and time, and in reality, a specific channel will make up program guides for multiple dates and times, so channel information 2060 is introduced. Channel information 2060 is made up of a service ID 2061, a service name 2062, and a service logo 2063, and further stores a list 2064 of program guide information for x year x month x day. Service ID 2061 is a value to be displayed on the program guide screen as a channel, and service name displays the name of each channel. Service logo 2063 is information used as an auxiliary aid to help viewers easily identify channels.

[0032] Furthermore, since there are multiple channels, program guide information 2070 is introduced. The program guide information 2070 includes a list 2071 of channel information, and can describe information for multiple channels.

[0033] The above metadata makes it possible to present programs corresponding to multiple channels and multiple dates and times for each channel.

[0034] Furthermore, to construct a program list, program list information 2000, related program information 2020, and video group 2030 are introduced. The program list screen displays a list of video content without time information. When constructing the program list screen, program list information 2000 is used. Video group 2001 in program list information 2000 contains a video information list, and video information 2010 is arranged in order in the video information list. Since the video information represents multiple video contents, a wide variety of video contents can be represented by setting different values ​​to video information 2010, which is metadata. The video information 2010 arranged in the video information list displays the title, description, and thumbnail of the video content.

[0035] Furthermore, in the video group 2001, which is an element of the program list information 2000, it is possible to select and arrange any of the video information list 2031, series information list 2032, season information list 2033, and episode information list 2034 indicated in the video group 2030. They are displayed on the program list screen in this order. The video information list 2031 can store a plurality of pieces of video information 2010 in list form. The series information list 2032, the season information list 2033, and the episode information list 2034 can store a plurality of series information sequences, a plurality of season information sequences, and a plurality of episode information sequences, respectively.

[0036] The business information 2040 is made up of a business ID 2045, a business name 2041, a business logo 2042, terms of use 2043, and a privacy policy (abbreviated as PP) 2044. A plurality of distribution systems are configured, and an intermediate shared server identifies which distribution system the metadata is sent from, and transmits the information to the television receiver using the business information 2040.

[0037] The provider ID 2045 is an ID for uniquely identifying multiple distribution systems, the provider name 2041 is a name that represents the distribution system, and the provider logo 2042 is displayed to clearly indicate the distribution system to viewers. Also, since there are multiple distribution providers, multiple terms of use 2043 and privacy policies 2044 for viewers when providing the service can also be written in a list structure.

[0038] The related information 2020 referenced by the related information ID 2014 of the video information 2010 is made up of a related program ID 2021 and a video information list 2022. The related program information is introduced to define multiple video contents as a single group according to the content provider's intention. The internal video information list 2022 can store multiple pieces of video information 2010.

[0039] The video information 2010 further includes a series ID 2002, a season ID 2003, an episode ID 2004, and a service ID 2006. This allows the video information to be linked to a three-tiered structure of series, season, and episode, and to channel information 2060.

[0040] 13, the other metadata 13000 is made up of series information 13100, season information 13200, episode information 13300, and thumbnail information 13400. The series information 13100 includes a series ID, series name, series description, series thumbnail, series genre, and series list.

[0041] The season information 13200 includes a season ID, season name, season description, season thumbnail, season genre, and episode list. The episode information includes an episode ID, video ID, episode name, episode description, content length, program start time, program end time, episode thumbnail, episode genre, and video URL. The thumbnail information 13400 includes a thumbnail URL, integrated image width, integrated image height, number of vertical tiles, number of horizontal tiles, tile start number, and total number of tiles.

[0042] As described above, the conventional video distribution system can flexibly display metadata corresponding to video content from a plurality of distribution servers, and can provide viewers with extremely good operability.

[0043] On the other hand, as explained in Figure 11, the provider ID 2045 is an ID for uniquely identifying multiple distribution systems, so the system is structured so that there are no problems as long as the series ID, season ID, episode ID, video ID, service ID, etc. are kept unique within each provider ID.

[0044] Fig. 12 shows an example of a program list display when multiple distribution servers use metadata. In this example, multiple distribution server systems are operated by providers A, B, and C, respectively. Provider A distributes video content with episode information 4023-4025 using video group 4022 within the range of provider ID 4021. Provider B distributes video content with episode information 4123-4125 using video group 4122 within the range of provider ID 4121. Provider C distributes video content with episode information 4223-4225 using video group 4222 within the range of provider ID 4221.

[0045] Each of the businesses A, B, and C defines an identifier to manage their respective video content within their own scope.

[0046] In this example, we will take an episode ID as an example. Here, since operators A, B, and C cannot know each other's episode IDs, the television receiver processes the episode ID within the area corresponding to each operator ID. If episode IDs are used across operators, there is a possibility that the same episode ID may be used by chance, and the television receiver may not be able to process the episode correctly due to the same episode ID. Therefore, processing corresponding to each episode ID is performed separately for operators A, B, and C.

[0047] Screen 12000 is configured using metadata received from a conventional distribution system. Screen 12000 presents episode information of episode IDs assigned by each provider in display area 12020 for provider A, display area 12030 for provider B, and display area 12040 for provider C.

[0048] For example, if episode information with episode ID "1" is to be displayed at the position of episode 12021 on display screen 12000, and provider A sets the episode ID to "1," and provider B also sets the episode ID to "1," the receiver will not know which episode information to display, making consistent processing impossible. Therefore, with metadata in conventional distribution systems, the provider's episode information is identified in advance by the provider ID, and processing is divided for each provider, and display processing is performed on the receiver, thereby achieving consistent processing without inconsistencies.

[0049] 11, the program list screen as shown on display screen 12000 is realized by an arrangement of identifiers such as series ID, season ID, episode ID, and video ID of video group 2001 stored in program list information 2000. Since program list information 2000 has a one-to-one correspondence with provider IDs, video group 2001 is defined within the provider ID.

[0050] Therefore, as shown in Figure 12, display screen 12000, the order of content such as episodes is determined within area 12020 of operator A, area 12030 of operator B, and area 12030 of operator C, and it is difficult to create a free order that goes beyond operators A, B, and C. [Means for solving the problem]

[0051] As described above, in conventional video distribution systems, multiple distribution servers set identifiers such as series IDs, season IDs, episode IDs, and video IDs for each provider ID and distribute them, so a method was used to display series information, season information, episode information, video information, etc. that could be identified by each provider ID. Until now, the number of distribution servers was small, and it was not a major problem for viewers to select content on a per-distributor basis. However, as the number of distribution providers and distribution servers increases, content selection becomes extremely complicated, as viewers are forced to select content on a per-distributor basis without comprehensive selection across multiple providers.

[0052] However, in conventional distribution systems, such cross-distribution processing poses problems. For example, if content from the same category provided by multiple providers, such as a program genre like "news programs," is displayed on a television screen without depending on the provider, identifiers such as series ID, season ID, episode ID, and video ID may have the same value, which can lead to inconsistencies.

[0053] Furthermore, the same problem occurs when the location information of the television set is stored in the receiver, such as a postal code setting, and content related to the region is collected and displayed from multiple providers based on the location information. In this case, too, the identifiers provided by each provider, such as series ID, season ID, episode ID, video ID, and service ID, may be the same, making it impossible to uniquely determine the relationship between the region and the content.

[0054] In addition, the program list screen is constructed based on program list information, but the program list information is defined within the scope of a specific provider ID, and the arrangement of the series information, season information, episode information, video information, etc. of the video group within that information is specified, so it was difficult to construct a screen display with a free arrangement of content, such as a display by category or region that transcends providers.

[0055] The metadata and accompanying screen presentation and operation according to the present invention provide the following solutions:

[0056] 1) By adding a mechanism to ensure that identifiers such as series IDs, season IDs, episode IDs, and video IDs are unique (not the same number) between providers, it becomes possible to freely place content distributed by metadata with multiple distribution servers, i.e., different provider IDs. 2) By newly introducing global program listing information, content distributed from multiple distribution servers can be flexibly presented, going beyond the content order defined within the operator ID scope. 3) To provide a screen presentation method that makes it easier to select content by category or region, without making the viewer aware of which provider or distribution server the content being distributed is from. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0057] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 shows a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 shows an example of metadata based on the present invention. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram of the relationship between metadata according to the present invention. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 shows an example of program list information according to the present invention. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 shows an example of the operation of displaying a program list according to the present invention. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 shows an example of an ID format according to the present invention. [Figure 7]FIG. 7 shows an example of a display of local information according to the present invention. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 shows an example of a program guide display operation according to the present invention. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram of a container structure according to the present invention. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 shows a conventional embodiment. [Figure 11] Figure 11 shows an example of conventional metadata. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 shows an example of a conventional program list display. [Figure 13] Figure 13 shows examples of other metadata. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0058] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0059] (First embodiment) FIG. 1 shows a first embodiment according to the present invention. The distribution system, intermediate shared server, stream distribution network, and television receiver that make up the whole shown in Fig. 1 are indicated by the same numbers as the distribution system, intermediate shared server, stream distribution network, and television receiver shown in Fig. 10. Also, when each part is indicated by the same number as in Fig. 10, it operates in the same way as the conventional example.

[0060] In the present invention, a global information generation server 1800 is added to the conventional embodiment shown in Fig. 10, and the global information generation server 1800 is composed of an ID numbering device 1803, an ID registration device 1802, and a global list generation unit 1801. Other differences from the conventional example are as follows:

[0061] An ID generating device 1811 and an ID application device 1812 are added to the distribution system 1100, and the program information section 1813 operates differently from the conventional example.

[0062] An ID generating device 1821 and an ID application device 1822 are added to the distribution system 1200, and the program information section 1823 operates differently from the conventional example.

[0063] An ID generating device 1811 and an ID application device 1832 are added to the distribution system 1300, and the program information section 1833 operates differently from the conventional example.

[0064] The operation of the program information storage unit 1850 of the intermediate shared server 1500 is different from that of the conventional example. The global program information processing unit 1860 of the television receiver 1600 has been modified from the conventional program information processing unit.

[0065] The global program information processing unit 1870 of the television receiver 1700 has been modified from the conventional program information processing unit.

[0066] Distribution system 1100, distribution system 1200, and distribution system 1300 each transmit a signal requesting the issuance of their own business ID to global information generation server 1800 using their respective ID application devices 1812. Global information generation server 1800 receives the business ID issuance request signals transmitted from distribution system 1100, distribution system 1200, and distribution system 1300 using ID registration device 1802, and generates business IDs corresponding to distribution system 1100, distribution system 1200, and distribution system 1300. Here, ID registration device 1802 determines the business IDs so that the business IDs of distribution system 1100, distribution system 1200, and distribution system 1300 are always different numbers or symbols. Therefore, the business ID of distribution system 1100, the business ID of distribution system 1200, and the business ID of distribution system 1300 are all different numbers or symbols.

[0067] The ID registration device 1802 transfers the determined provider ID to the ID numbering device 1803. The ID numbering device 1803 sets the determined provider ID and identifier generation rules for generating other IDs, series IDs, season IDs, episode IDs, video IDs, and service IDs, and transmits the results to the distribution systems 1100, 1200, and 1300. The transmitted provider ID and identifier generation rules are received by the ID generation device 1811 of the distribution system 1100, the ID generation device 1821 of the distribution system 1200, and the ID generation device 1831 of the distribution system 1300.

[0068] The ID generation device 1811 of the distribution system 1100, the ID generation device 1821 of the distribution system 1200, and the ID generation device 1831 of the distribution system 1300 determine identifier values ​​such as a series ID, season ID, episode ID, video ID, and service ID based on the received provider ID and identifier generation rule, and transmit these values ​​to the program information unit 1813 of the distribution system 1100, the program information unit 1823 of the distribution system 1200, and the program information unit 1833 of the distribution system 1300. Each of the program information units 1813, 1823, and 1833 generates metadata using the received provider ID and each identifier, as in the conventional example. The generated metadata of the program information unit 1813 of the distribution system 1100, the program information unit 1823 of the distribution system 1200, and the program information unit 1833 of the distribution system 1300 is transmitted to the intermediate shared server, as in the conventional example. The identifier generation rule will be described in detail separately with reference to FIG. 6.

[0069] The receiving unit 1501 of the intermediate shared server 1500 receives each piece of metadata and stores it in the program information storage unit 1850. The metadata stored in the program information storage unit 1850 is temporarily transmitted to the global list information generation unit 1801 of the global information generation server 1800. The global list information generation unit 1801 generates global list information and transmits it to the program information storage unit 1850 of the intermediate shared server 1500.

[0070] The program information storage unit 1850 combines the newly generated global list information with the metadata transmitted from the distribution systems 110 , 1200 , and 1300 and transmits them to the television receivers 1600 and 1700 . Television receivers 1600 and 1700 receive the information at global program information processing units 1860 and 1870, respectively.

[0071] The global program information processing unit 1860 of the television receiver 1600 and the global program information processing unit 1870 of the television receiver 1700 realize a more flexible screen configuration based on the newly added global list information.

[0072] In this embodiment, three distribution systems and two television receivers are shown, but there is no limit to the number of distribution systems and television receivers, and they can be easily increased by improving the performance of the intermediate shared server 1500 and the global information generation server 1800.

[0073] Hereinafter, the details of the embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0074] An example of metadata according to the present invention is shown in Fig. 2. The difference from conventional metadata is the addition of global program listing information 2200. Global program listing information 2200 is made up of video groups 2210, area groups 2220, and program guide groups 2230. Furthermore, the video ID 2016, series ID 2011, season ID 2012, episode ID 2013, and service ID 2015 of video information 2010, which are shown in bold frames, were generated by ID generation devices 1811, 1821, and 1831 shown in Fig. 1.

[0075] As shown in FIG. 13, the other metadata 13000 is made up of series information 13100, season information 13200, episode information 13300, and thumbnail information 13400.

[0076] The other parts have the same functions as the conventional metadata shown in FIG.

[0077] FIG. 3 shows an explanatory diagram of the relationship between metadata based on the present invention.

[0078] The distribution system 1100 shown in Figure 1 corresponds to provider A, the distribution system 1200 corresponds to provider B, and the distribution system 1300 corresponds to provider C. Of the metadata provided by each distribution system, only the parts relevant to the present invention are extracted and described.

[0079] Information about business operator A is written in business operator information 3040, and a business operator ID 3045 determined by the global information generating server 1800 is stored.

[0080] The distribution system 1100 forms a program guide using channel information 3060, a program guide 3050 for x year x month x day, and program guide information 3070. In addition, video information 3010 stores a video ID 3016, a series ID 3011, a season ID 3012, an episode ID 3013, and a service ID 3015, forming a program list. In addition, program list information stores a video group 3030, which stores lists of video IDs, series IDs, season IDs, episode IDs, and service IDs, forming a program list.

[0081] As shown in FIG. 13, the other metadata 13100 is made up of series information 13100, season information 13200, episode information 13300, and thumbnail information 13400.

[0082] The distribution system 1200 forms a program guide using channel information 3160, a program guide 3150 for x year x month x day, and program guide information 3170. In addition, video information 3110 stores a video ID 3116, a series ID 3111, a season ID 3112, an episode ID 3113, and a service ID 3115, forming a program list. In addition, program list information stores a video group 3130, and stores lists of video IDs, series IDs, season IDs, episode IDs, and service IDs, forming a program list.

[0083] As shown in FIG. 13, the other metadata 13200 is made up of series information 13100, season information 13200, episode information 13300, and thumbnail information 13400.

[0084] The distribution system 1300 forms a program guide using channel information 3260, a program guide 3250 for x year x month x day, and program guide information 3270. Furthermore, video information 3210 stores a video ID 3216, a series ID 3211, a season ID 3212, an episode ID 3213, and a service ID 3215, forming a program list. Furthermore, program list information stores a video group 3230, which stores lists of video IDs, series IDs, season IDs, episode IDs, and service IDs, forming a program list.

[0085] As shown in FIG. 13, the other metadata 13300 is made up of series information 13100, season information 13200, episode information 13300, and thumbnail information 13400.

[0086] As described above, each piece of metadata is provided by each of the providers A, B, and C, but the global program listing information does not belong to any of the providers and is positioned neutrally.

[0087] The global program information 2200 includes a video group 2210 , a regional group 2220 , and a program guide group 2230 .

[0088] The video group 2010 is used to freely arrange video content across different operators. As with the conventional video group, a list of video IDs, a list of series IDs, a list of season IDs, and a list of episode IDs can be entered, and is used to display a list of programs.

[0089] What differs from conventional video groups is that it is possible to list a mixture of video IDs, series IDs, season IDs, and episode IDs from different providers. In this embodiment, a video ID 2011 from provider A, a video ID 2012 from provider B, a video ID 2013 from provider C, a series ID 2014 from provider A, a season ID 2015 from provider B, and an episode ID from provider C are listed, enabling flexible program listing display independent of provider.

[0090] By associating the service IDs of different operators with the area group 2220 by area, such as area X, area Y, and area Z, it becomes possible to display a list of programs for each area across operators. Here, it is composed of a list 2021 of service IDs for area X, a list 2022 of service IDs for area Y, and a list 2023 of service IDs for area Z, but by listing service IDs of different operators in the service ID list, it is possible to create a regional list of video content that is not tied to the operator for each area.

[0091] The program guide group 2230 defines the correspondence between the channels and providers listed in the program guide. In the conventional example, the program guide is arranged in order of service ID, but by introducing the program guide group 2230, it is possible to arrange the channel information of each provider in any order in the program guide. By entering the service ID 2031 corresponding to channel 1, the service ID 2032 corresponding to channel 2, and the service ID 2033 corresponding to channel 3 in the program guide group 2230, it is possible to change the service ID corresponding to each channel.

[0092] 4 shows an example of a program listing display according to the present invention. What differs from conventional program listing displays is that episode information is arranged regardless of the provider. Video group 4022 of provider A 4021 contains episode information 4023, 4024, . . . 4025, video group 4122 of provider B 4121 contains episode information 4123, 4124, . . . 4125, and video group 4222 of provider A 4221 contains episode information 4223, 4224, . . . 4225. However, according to video group 2210 of global program listing information 2210, episode information 4024 can be displayed at the position of episode 4302 on display screen 4025, episode 4124 at the position of episode 4301, episode information 4224 at the position of episode 4304, and episode information 4224 at the position of episode 4303.

[0093] In this embodiment, for convenience of explanation, the order of episodes is shown, but similar order changes are possible for series, seasons, video information, and the like.

[0094] In this way, in the program list display according to the present invention, the video groups 2210 in the global program list information 2210 can be used to arrange content from all providers, not just from providers A, B, and C.

[0095] In the example of display screen 4300, related content is arranged in the boxes for Category X, Category Y, and Category Z. This arrangement can be realized using information such as video genre included in the video information, regardless of the broadcaster. Also, by sorting and arranging each content by category in the list structure of video groups 2210 in global program list information 2210, it is possible to display them.

[0096] 5 shows an example of the operation of the program list display according to the present invention, which shows the relationship between the video group 2210 in the global program list information 2210 and the video groups provided by the providers A, B, and C.

[0097] Information about content corresponding to video information, series information, season information, and episode information is displayed on the television display screen 5200. The display is in the form of thumbnails or text information.

[0098] Video group 4022 of operator A 4021 contains episode information 4023, 4024, and 4025, video group 4122 of operator B 4121 contains episode information 4123, 4124, and 4125, and video group 4222 of operator C 4221 contains episode information 4223, 4224, and 4025. Video group 2210 of global program list information 2210 contains in advance an order of video ID, series ID, season ID, and episode ID. In this embodiment, the video IDs are arranged in the order of video ID 2011, 2012, 2013, series ID 2014, season ID 2015, episode ID 2016, series ID 2017, season ID 2018, and episode ID 2019, and the corresponding video information, series information, season information, and episode information is obtained from the video information, series information, season information, and episode information held by each of provider A 4021, provider C 4121, and provider C 4221. The obtained video information, series information, season information, and episode information is displayed on the screen in the order of the IDs listed in video groups 2210 of global program list information 2210.

[0099] In this embodiment, for convenience of explanation, a specific arrangement is described, but other arrangements can be similarly implemented.

[0100] Next, a display will be performed in the case where the display is divided by category.

[0101] Each ID of the video group 2210 in the global program list information 2210 is described with a genre name X, Y, or Z. When displayed on the display screen 5200, the videos are displayed in the order in which the IDs are arranged within the same genre. In this embodiment, video ID 2011 is genre Y, video ID 2012 is genre Z, and video ID 2013 is genre X, so the content of the video information indicated by video ID 2013 is displayed in the position of display screen episode 5201. Furthermore, since series ID 2014 and season 2015 are arranged in the same order, the content of the season information indicated by season ID 2015 is displayed in the position of season 5202.

[0102] In this way, video groups 2210 in global program listing information 2210 enable content display across multiple operators.

[0103] As described above, the distribution system according to the present invention makes it possible to freely display content-related information such as thumbnails and text on the screen, beyond the scope of the provider ID.

[0104] The above processing is carried out by the program information processing unit 5100 of the television receiver.

[0105] The following is an example of the execution of algorithm 5101 by program information processing unit 5100. Algorithm 5101 changes the order of IDs of video groups 2210 in global program list information 2210 according to viewing trends. Algorithm 5101 has the following processing procedure.

[0106] Step 1: When a viewer selects a program presented by metadata, obtain the selected video information. Step 2: Based on the genre information included in the video information, the number of times each genre is selected is counted. Step 3: Sort the genres by most viewed.

[0107] By carrying out the above processing in the global program information processing unit 5100 in the television receiver, programs are presented on the display screen 5200 in the order of the viewer's preferred genres.

[0108] By performing the above process, the genres can be rearranged in order of the viewer's preferences, allowing the viewer to reach their preferred content more quickly.

[0109] 6 shows an embodiment relating to the configuration of each identifier, series ID, season ID, episode ID, video ID, and service ID, written in the video group 2210 of the global program list information 2210. Two patterns will be explained.

[0110] First, the case of pattern 1 will be described.

[0111] The series ID 6041, season ID 6042, episode ID 6043, video ID 6044, and service ID 6044 are each formed by concatenating a provider ID and a sub-identifier. Here, the provider ID and sub-identifier are represented, for example, as text or numbers. As an example, if the provider ID 6021 is "11" and the sub-identifier 6031 is "222," the series ID 6041 is "11222" by concatenating the values ​​of the provider ID 6021 and the sub-identifier 6031. Similarly, the season ID 6042, episode ID 6043, video ID 6044, and service ID 6044 are also formed. Here, each sub-identifier is assigned a unique number for each provider ID (the same text and number will not be used).

[0112] By using the above method, it is guaranteed that series IDs, season IDs, episode IDs, video IDs, and service IDs are unique (not the same value) even between operators.

[0113] Next, the case of pattern 2 will be described.

[0114] In this pattern, each identifier includes a region identifier.

[0115] The series ID 6051, season ID 6052, episode ID 6045, video ID 6054, and service ID 6054 are each formed by concatenating a provider ID, a region identifier, and a sub-identifier. Here, the provider ID, region identifier, and sub-identifier are expressed, for example, as text or numbers. As an example, if the provider ID 6061 is "11," the region identifier 6071 is "55," and the sub-identifier 6081 is "222," the series ID 6051 is "1155222" by concatenating the values ​​of the provider ID 6061, region identifier 6071, and sub-identifier 6081. Similarly, the season ID 6052, episode ID 6053, video ID 6054, and service ID 6054 are also formed. Here, each sub-identifier is assigned a unique number for each provider ID (i.e., the same text and number will not be used). The region identifier is expressed as text or numbers that can identify the region.

[0116] As a specific example, it is possible to use a postal code or a TS-ID (Transport Stream ID) determined in terrestrial digital broadcasting.

[0117] By using the above method, it is guaranteed that series IDs, season IDs, episode IDs, video IDs, and service IDs are unique (not the same value) even between operators.

[0118] FIG. 7 shows an example of a display of area information according to the present invention.

[0119] This embodiment is based on the identifier configuration of pattern 2 shown in Fig. 6. That is, the series ID, season ID, episode ID, video ID, and service ID each contain a region identifier.

[0120] Provider A 7060, provider B 7070, and provider C 7080 each have a video group in which video IDs are listed.

[0121] The area group 7040 of the global program listing information 2210 has a correspondence table between area identifiers and areas. Correspondence table 7041 lists the correspondence between area identifier X and area A, correspondence table 7042 lists the correspondence between area identifier Y and area B, and correspondence table 7043 lists the correspondence between area identifier Z and area C. Here, the area identifiers match the area identifiers shown in Fig. 6. In this embodiment, video ID 7010, video ID 7020, and video ID 7030 are shown.

[0122] Here, video ID 7010 is composed of operator ID 7011, area identifier 7012, and sub-identifier 7013, video ID 7020 is composed of operator ID 7021, area identifier 7022, and sub-identifier 7023, and video ID 7030 is composed of operator ID 7031, area identifier 7032, and sub-identifier 7033.

[0123] On the other hand, the region-specific display screen 7100 displays region selection buttons 7110, 7120, and 7130.

[0124] When a viewer selects a region using region selection button 7110, contents 7111 to 7119 related to region selection button 7110 are presented on the screen. Region selection buttons 7120 and 7130 operate in the same way. This allows the viewer to easily select preferred content by displaying a list of contents related to the viewer's preferred region.

[0125] The area group 7040 of the global program list information 2210 indicates the correspondence between the area identifiers constituting the video ID and the area selection buttons 7110, 7120, and 7130 displayed on the area-specific display screen 7100.

[0126] When the region selection button 7110 is selected, the correspondence table 7041 is selected and a region identifier is determined. By selecting video information having a video ID that includes the determined region identifier as a component from the video group of each operator, the specified video information is acquired and the corresponding content is presented on the region-specific display screen 7100.

[0127] Through the above processing, content is presented for each region across multiple businesses.

[0128] FIG. 8 shows an example of the display operation of a program guide according to the present invention.

[0129] In a conventional program guide, channels are displayed in a fixed order, for example, in the order of service IDs. In this embodiment, the display order of channels is changed by the program guide group 8020 in the global program list information 2210.

[0130] The program guide 7100 displays time information vertically and channels horizontally, in a so-called TV guide display.

[0131] Information 8030 relating to the program guide is made up of x-year, x-month, x-day program information 8031, channel information 8032, program information 8033, and program information 8034. Information 8040 relating to the program guide is made up of x-year, x-month, x-day program information 8041, channel information 8042, program information 8043, and program information 8044.

[0132] The information 8050 relating to the program guide is made up of x-month-x-date program information 8051, channel information 8052, program information 8053, and program information 8054. The program guide screen 7100 is made up of the above information.

[0133] On the other hand, the program guide group 8020 of the global program list information 2210 has correspondence tables 8021 to 8023 between the service IDs of each operator and channels. In correspondence table 8021, a service ID 8032 is registered to correspond to channel A. In this case, a program guide used by program guide information 8030 having service ID 8032 is arranged on channel A 8110 of the program guide screen 7100. In correspondence table 8022, a service ID 8042 is registered to correspond to channel B. In this case, a program guide used by program guide information 8040 having service ID 8042 is arranged on channel B 8120 of the program guide screen 7100. In correspondence table 8023, a service ID 8052 is registered to correspond to channel B. In this case, a program guide used by program guide information 8050 having service ID 8052 is arranged on channel C 8130 of the program guide screen 7100.

[0134] As described above, the program guide group 8020 of the global program list information 2210 can change the correspondence between service IDs and channels, making it possible to configure a flexible program guide screen.

[0135] FIG. 9 shows an explanatory diagram of the container structure according to the present invention.

[0136] The container referred to here refers to a structure formed by folders and files when actually transmitting metadata. Under root 9000, provider information 9100 and provider information 9200 are arranged. Under provider information 9110, channel information 9110 and channel information 9120 are arranged. Under channel information 9111, program information 9122 and 9117 for x year x month x day are arranged. Under program information 9122 for x year x month x day are program guides 9113 and 9115, and under them are video information 9114 and 9116, respectively. Under program information 9117 for x year x month x day is program information 9118, and under that is video information 9119. By configuring such a hierarchical structure, a program guide is formed.

[0137] Below the program list 9130, video information 9131 and episode information 9132 are arranged. By constructing such a hierarchical structure, a program list display is formed.

[0138] In the present invention, the sub-identifiers that make up the series ID, season ID, episode ID, video ID, and service ID used in each piece of information that forms this hierarchical structure are assigned numbers that are unique (do not have the same number or symbol) within the self-proclaimed user information 9110 and below.

[0139] On the other hand, global program listing information 9300 is arranged directly under the root 9000, and directly under the global program listing information 9300, a video group 9400, a regional group 9500, and a program guide group 9600 are arranged.

[0140] The video group 9400, area group 9500, and program guide group 9600 are placed outside the scope of the business information 9110 and business information 9200, and beyond the business information 9100 and 9200, the series ID, season ID, episode ID, video ID, and service ID are arranged.

Claims

1. a generating device that distributes audio and video content output from a plurality of distribution servers to a television receiver via a network, generates metadata for program selection, transmits program information to an intermediate shared server, and generates identifiers to be used in the metadata, and arranges the content on a television screen based on the arrangement of the identifiers; The plurality of distribution servers are identified by their respective business identifiers, and the identifiers included in the metadata of each distribution server include the business identifiers as components; The placement information for placing the content is configured by a sequence of identifiers included in the metadata, and the placement of the content is determined in the sequence of the identifiers; A video content distribution system in which the business identifiers are set to be different numbers or symbols for each business.

2. 2. A video content distribution system according to claim 1, wherein the system generates placement information for placing the content based on an identifier included in the metadata, independently of the plurality of distribution servers, transmits the generated placement information to the television receiver, and places and displays the content on the television screen.

3. 2. A video content distribution system according to claim 1, wherein the identifier included in the metadata is composed of a provider identifier that identifies the plurality of distribution servers, a regional identifier that identifies the region, and a sub-identifier that identifies each element.

4. 2. A video content distribution system according to claim 1, wherein the video and audio content output from the plurality of distribution servers can be flexibly arranged in any location according to the content arrangement information, without depending on the server.

5. 2. A video content distribution system according to claim 1, wherein, based on the metadata transmitted from the plurality of distribution servers, arrangement information for determining the order in which channels appear in a program guide is generated independently of the plurality of distribution servers, and channels are arranged in the program guide, which displays programs using time information and channel information, based on the arrangement information.

6. 2. A television receiver in a distribution system according to claim 1, wherein the placement information for placing the content determines the order of the content included in the placement information by counting the number of times the content has been viewed for each category, at least one of genre and region.

7. 2. A television receiver in the distribution system according to claim 1, wherein the television receiver displays regional selection buttons that allow a viewer to select a region, and displays regional video content according to the selected button based on regional information that constitutes the identifier of the metadata.

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