Content distribution system and program

Abstract

To provide a content distribution system which efficiently provides information pieces such as broadcast programs and advertisements.SOLUTION: A content distribution system comprises: an information management server; a content management server; store terminals configured in respective stores; set top boxes; displays as signages; cameras, one or more of which are connected to the store terminal and image the inside of respective stores, and loudspeakers, one or more of which are connected to the set top box and output voice to the inside of each store. The content distribution system determines whether or not a content A and a content B to be selected need correlation, determines the content A when the correlation is needed, extracts a feature from the content A, and extracts the content B based on the feature of the extracted content A. Moreover, when the determination results in that the correlation is not needed, the content A and the content B are determined by individual determination.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a content distribution system or the like installed in a store, facility, mobile vehicle, public space, or the like, and more specifically to a content distribution system or the like installed in a store or facility. [Background technology]

[0002] BACKGROUND ART Conventionally, so-called electronic signage displays have been installed in stores, facilities, moving vehicles, public spaces, and the like to distribute advertisements to consumers and the like.

[0003] For example, an advertising distribution system has been proposed that allows for flexible and easy updating of advertisements displayed on buses, and also allows for the display of unexpected advertisements with high priority or urgency at any time (Patent Document 1).

[0004] That is, Patent Document 1 discloses an advertising distribution system that displays advertisements on a display device mounted on a bus, characterized in that the advertising distribution system has an on-board device that has a storage means for storing a database containing advertising data and advertising display condition data that specifies the conditions for displaying the advertising data, a determination means for determining whether the current operating conditions match any of the advertising display condition data in the database, and a display control means for displaying advertising data corresponding to the advertising display condition data matched by the determination means in a predetermined manner, and a server that is connected to the on-board device via a wireless network and updates at least a portion of the database.

[0005] Furthermore, a distribution device that reduces the burden on distributors who organize advertisements for screening has also been proposed (Patent Document 2).

[0006] That is, Patent Document 2 discloses a distribution device comprising: an acquisition unit that acquires, from the facility, information regarding an advertising space, which is a time slot for displaying a second content at a facility together with a first content; a submission acceptance unit that presents the information regarding the advertising space acquired by the acquisition unit to a provider of the second content and accepts submission of the second content with provision conditions, which are conditions specified by the provider of the second content and are conditions under which the second content is provided at the facility; a request acceptance unit that accepts, from the facility, request conditions, which are conditions for acquiring the second content, along with a request for acquiring the second content; and a distribution unit that distributes information regarding the second content corresponding to the acquisition request to the facility when the provision conditions accepted by the submission acceptance unit match the request conditions for the second content accepted by the request acceptance unit.

[0007] Also, an advertisement providing system capable of providing attractive advertisements to users waiting in line has been proposed (Patent Document 3).

[0008] That is, Patent Document 3 discloses an advertising provision system that includes a display device that displays the waiting status of users waiting in line at a facility and provides advertisements to the users, the advertising provision system including an advertising database that stores multiple pieces of advertising information, an input unit that accepts input of attribute information for each user waiting in line, a determination unit that determines a main attribute of all users waiting in line by aggregating and analyzing the input attribute information, a selection unit that selects the advertising information to be provided based on the determined main attribute, a distribution unit that distributes the selected advertising information to the facility, and a display control unit that displays the distributed advertising information on the display device together with the waiting status of each user waiting in line, and the display control unit is equipped with a first switching unit that switches the ratio of the display area for status information indicating the waiting status of each user and the distributed advertising information depending on the number of users waiting. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0009] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2004-347952 [Patent Document 2] Patent No. 5986120 specification [Patent Document 3] Patent No. 6113320 specification Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0010] However, the provision of content such as conventional advertisements has an issue of low awareness-building power. In addition, there is room for further improvement in terms of responding to the daily activities of customers (consumers) who visit stores, etc., as well as their ever-changing needs and external circumstances in a detailed manner.

[0011] Furthermore, in spaces such as stores and facilities, there is a demand for new information provision technologies that do not simply involve advertising and promotion, but effectively combine advertising information with non-advertising information such as programs. [Means for solving the problem]

[0012] Therefore, a content distribution system according to one embodiment of the present invention is a content distribution system that distributes roll content that combines content A and content B, and is characterized by having a setting means that can set the selection and / or ratio of content A and content B by individually referring to one or more pieces of auxiliary information and / or external information for each of content A and content B in the roll content.

[0013] The content A is non-advertising content, and the content B is advertising content.

[0014] The ratio is characterized in that it is the playback time ratio of the content A and / or the content B within the roll content, or the appearance ratio of the content A and / or the content B within a predetermined time or period.

[0015] The attached information is characterized in that it is a tag individually assigned to the content A and the content B. [Effects of the Invention]

[0016] According to a content distribution system according to one embodiment of the present invention, it is possible to respond in a detailed manner to the daily activities of customers (consumers) visiting a store and external conditions that change from moment to moment, thereby achieving effects such as improving the visibility of information provided about programs, advertisements, etc. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0017] [Figure 1] 1 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a perspective external view of a store in which a content distribution system according to an embodiment of the present invention is installed; [Figure 2] 1 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a cross-sectional top view of a store in which a content distribution system according to an embodiment of the present invention is installed; [Figure 3] 1 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of the overall configuration of a content distribution system according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 4A] 1 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of the functional block configuration of an information management server, a content management server, a store terminal, and an STB in a content distribution system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4B] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram illustrating another example of the structure of the STB in the content distribution system according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5] 1 is a flowchart illustrating a processing flow in a content distribution system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6]1 is a flowchart illustrating a processing flow in a content distribution system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a display example of a display in the content distribution system according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a display example of a display in the content distribution system according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a display example of a display in the content distribution system according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a display example of a display in the content distribution system according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11] 1 is a flowchart illustrating a processing flow in a content distribution system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 12] 1 is a flowchart illustrating a processing flow in a content distribution system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a process of aggregating data collected in a content distribution system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a process of aggregating data collected in a content distribution system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 15] 1 is a flowchart illustrating a processing flow in a content distribution system according to an embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0018] A content distribution system according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings.

[0019] Fig. 1 shows a perspective view of a store in which a content distribution system according to one embodiment of the present invention is installed. The store 10 shown in Fig. 1 is, as an example, a convenience store that handles a wide variety of food and daily necessities. The type of store is not limited to convenience stores, and the system can be applied to a wide range of stores in the retail industry, such as supermarkets, drug stores, clothing stores, and home improvement stores. Furthermore, the content distribution system according to another embodiment of the present invention can be introduced not only into stores but also into facilities, moving vehicles, public spaces, etc. In order to facilitate understanding of the invention, the following describes the case where the content distribution system according to one embodiment of the present invention is introduced into a store.

[0020] In the center of Figure 1, gondola fixtures, steel fixtures, side fixtures, and refrigerated open cases are installed, and along the front wall in the figure, a magazine rack, a copy machine, and an automated teller machine (ATM) can be seen. Also, along the back wall in the figure, a refrigerated multi-tiered open showcase is installed from the left, and along the right side of the back wall in the figure, refrigerated and frozen showcases for displaying beverages, refrigerated foods, etc. are installed.

[0021] In addition, in Figure 1, the area surrounded by counters 11 and 12 is the cash register area. Four POS registers are installed on counter 11, which is in front of the cash register area. Behind the cash register area, starting from the left side of the figure, there are four coffee makers lined up side by side, and to the right of them there are four microwave ovens stacked in two layers, and further to the right of that there is a cigarette holder (cigarette storage).

[0022] 1, displays 13 to 15 are installed on the upper part of the wall behind the cashier counter area, and cameras 131, 141, and 151 are attached externally to the center of the top of the screen of each display. These cameras can be used to capture images of the inside of the store from the cashier counter side. Note that if such a camera function is built into each display or if the camera function is not used, the external cameras are omitted.

[0023] In one embodiment of the present invention, displays 13 to 15 are each large, 65 inches or larger, and employ LCD displays, organic EL displays, etc. In one embodiment, the size of each display is approximately 80 cm high and 143 cm wide (the total size of the three displays is approximately 80 cm high and 429 cm wide). It should be noted that the above example of the display size is merely one embodiment of the present invention. In other embodiments of the present invention, other display sizes (for example, about 40 inches) are selected. Also, although three displays are installed, the present invention is not limited to this, and any number of displays greater than one can be used.

[0024] In one embodiment of the present invention, the display is installed on the upper part of the wall behind the cash register counter area, or it may be installed so that the display is suspended from the ceiling along the cash register wall. Also, in one embodiment of the present invention, the display is configured so that its tilt angle can be adjusted by adjusting a movable connector (not shown). In one embodiment, the tilt angle of the display can be adjusted within a range of approximately 0 to 15 degrees.

[0025] Furthermore, although not necessarily essential for the invention, a camera and / or speaker may be installed on the ceiling of the store. The camera in this case is separate from the camera installed in the center above displays 13 to 15 in Fig. 1. Furthermore, in other embodiments of the present invention, the camera may be installed anywhere, such as on the ceiling, on the top edge of the display, on a wall in the cash register area, or on another wall.

[0026] FIG. 2 shows a cross-sectional top view of a store in which a content distribution system according to an embodiment of the invention is installed. In store 20 shown in FIG. 2, counters 21 and 22 form a cash register area. Counter 21 corresponds to counter 11, and counter 22 corresponds to counter 12. Four POS registers are installed on counter 21, which forms the front of the cash register area. In the figure, displays 23 to 25 are installed behind the cash register area, and cameras 231, 241, and 251 are externally attached to the top center of each display screen. Displays 23 to 25 correspond to displays 13 to 15, respectively, and cameras 131, 141, and 151 correspond to cameras 231, 241, and 251, respectively.

[0027] The store 20 shown in FIG. 2 has installations that are not shown in the store 10 in FIG. 1. These are cameras 261-264 and speakers 273-274. In one embodiment, the cameras 261-264 are installed on the ceiling or upper part of the wall of the store and can capture images of the inside of the store. In another embodiment, the speakers 273-274 are installed on the ceiling or upper part of the wall of the store and can play audio of content and background music. In another embodiment, the speakers 273-274 can also play original audio independent of the images or videos displayed on the display. In this case, content consisting of only audio is distributed.

[0028] FIG. 3 shows an example of the overall configuration of a content distribution system according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] As shown in FIG. 3, the content distribution system 30, in an exemplary configuration in one embodiment, is composed of an information management server 31, a content management server 32, store terminals 331a to 331c set up in each of stores 330a to 330c, set-top boxes (STBs) 332a to 332c, displays 333a to 333c as signage, one or more cameras 334a to 334c connected to the store terminals for capturing images inside each store, and one or more speakers 335a to 335c connected to the set-top boxes for outputting audio inside each store. It should be noted that some or all of the cameras 334a to 334c and / or speakers 335a to 335c may be built into other devices such as the displays 333a to 333c.

[0030] Furthermore, the information management server 31 or the content management server 32 can be connected to an external information server (not shown) as needed to obtain necessary information. For example, the information management server 31 or the content management server 32 can connect to an external weather information server to obtain current or past weather information or future weather forecast information, connect to an external news server to obtain current or past news information, connect to an external information database to obtain local event information from a local government or the like, or connect to an external crawler to obtain trending keywords on SNS.

[0031] In one embodiment of the present invention, the information management server 31 manages the store terminals of all stores and manages at least some of the content of all stores. In one embodiment, the information management server 31 can be part of the functions of a headquarters server, but is not limited to this. The content management server 32 can manage the displays 333a to 333c as signage via the store terminals 331a to 331c and / or STBs 332a to 332c.

[0032] Here, the content management server 32 can be an ASP (Application Service Provider) server. In one embodiment of the present invention, the content management function of the server 32 can be integrated into the information management server 31. In that case, the servers 31 and 32 in Fig. 1 are integrated into one management server 31 (the content management server 32 is not a required component).

[0033] In one embodiment, the store terminals 331a to 331c set up in each store 330a to 330c manage the STBs 332a to 332c and the signage displays 333a to 333c in each store, as well as manage the content provided in the store and the content information provision schedule, etc. Here, the significance of the store terminals 331a-331c and STBs 332a-332c in each store is that, as shown in Figure 3, the store terminals and STBs can be used together, or the store terminals with STB functions can be operated independently. Alternatively, a highly functional STB can be operated independently, and the store terminals can be omitted. Such combinations of store terminals and / or STB operations can be selected for each store.

[0034] Also, in FIG. 3, each of the stores 330a to 330c is connected to the Internet 39 via each of the store terminals 331a to 331c, but the present invention is not limited to this, and the store terminals and / or STBs may be connected to the Internet 39. In another embodiment, the Internet 39 may be an in-house LAN, in which case the content management server 32 is a management server operated in the in-house network.

[0035] 3, terminals 331a-331c and STBs 332a-332c in each store are shown connected to displays 333a-333c by wired cables such as HDMI (registered trademark; the same applies hereinafter) cables (note that each display only needs to be connected to at least one of a store terminal or an STB). In this case, content data to be displayed on the display is transmitted from the store terminal or STB via a wired cable such as an HDMI cable, but the present invention is not limited to this, and in other embodiments, content data can also be transferred from the store terminal to the display via a storage medium such as a USB memory. In this case, the wired cable such as an HDMI cable is omitted.

[0036] The information management server 31, the content management server 32, and the store terminals 331a to 331c are connected to each other so that they can communicate with each other via communication lines 33 to 34 and 35a to 35c. The communication lines may be wired connections or wireless connections that connect to the Internet 39 via base stations, access points, etc. (not shown).

[0037] Here, an access point is a wireless device that connects wireless terminals such as PCs and smartphones to each other or to other networks. It is typically a device that operates using the communication protocols of Layer 1 (physical layer) and Layer 2 (data link layer) of the OSI reference model.

[0038] At the time of filing this application, the store terminals are typically personal computers (PCs), and some STBs also have the same functions and processing capabilities as PCs.

[0039] In addition, the programs or software necessary for implementing the present invention are typically installed or stored on an HDD, SSD, etc. in the storage unit of a PC or STB, and when the programs or software are executed, all or part of them are read out as software modules into the memory in the storage unit as needed, and are calculated and executed by the CPU.

[0040] Alternatively, a browser-based PC or STB can be used, in which case programs are distributed to the terminal from another server or computer as needed and executed in the terminal's browser.

[0041] The hardware configuration of the information management server 31 and the content management server 32 can basically be a PC (for clarity, an example of a functional block will be described later with reference to FIG. 4A, etc.). Although the present invention is not limited to this, the hardware specifications of the information management server 11 and the content management server 32 can be improved as needed. For example, a configuration suitable for processing large amounts of data can be adopted by operating tens to tens of thousands of PCs in parallel.

[0042] (Freedom of data storage location) Furthermore, in the content delivery system according to one embodiment of the present invention, there is a degree of freedom in the location where collected data and processed data are saved and stored. For example, if the content delivery system according to one embodiment of the present invention employs a cloud configuration, data can be saved and stored and managed on the cloud side, or on a locally connected server. In addition, part of the data processing can also be performed at the location where the data is saved or accumulated, and the system is configured to distribute data processing taking into account the overall load on the system, etc.

[0043] 4A shows a functional block diagram of information management server 31, content management server 32, store terminals 331a-331c, and STBs 332a-332c in a content distribution system according to one embodiment of the present invention. Illustratively, the operations of these servers are realized by the individual operations of the hardware described below, and the cooperative operation of the software and this hardware. While the STBs 332a-332c are shown as having the same functions and processing capabilities as PCs, the present invention is not limited to this, and it is also possible to employ STBs with a simpler configuration that omits some functions. Below, a configuration example of the information management server 11 or the content management server 32 will be described as a representative example.

[0044] In FIG. 4A, server 400 as an entire hardware block is broadly composed of a CPU 401 for performing various comparison and calculation processes, a memory unit 402 such as RAM, ROM, flash memory, etc., an input unit 403 such as a keyboard or pointing device, an output unit 404 such as a display or speaker, a control unit 405 for controlling various signals, a communication (interface) unit 406 (whether wireless or wired), a clock unit 407 for measuring the time, etc., and a power supply unit 408. In the case of an STB that does not employ an input unit such as a keyboard or pointing device or an output unit such as a display, the input unit 403 and the output unit 404 can be omitted.

[0045] These modules are connected by a communication bus and / or power supply lines as needed, which are collectively shown as wiring 409 in FIG.

[0046] In addition, the programs or software executed on the server 400 necessary for implementing the present invention are typically installed or stored in a hard disk drive, SSD (Solid State Drive), flash memory, etc. that constitutes the storage unit 402, and when the programs or software are executed, all or part of them are read as software modules into the memory in the storage unit 402 as needed, and are calculated and executed by the CPU 401.

[0047] The calculations do not necessarily have to be performed by a central processing unit such as the CPU 401, but can also be performed by an auxiliary calculation device such as a digital signal processor (DSP) (not shown).

[0048] Fig. 4B shows a functional block diagram of an STB as a variation in a content distribution system according to one embodiment of the present invention. The STB shown in Fig. 4B has a unique function of being able to receive broadcast signals such as satellite broadcasts, cable television broadcasts, terrestrial television broadcasts (digital broadcasts), and IP broadcasts (for example, broadband VOD).

[0049] In Fig. 4B, 451 to 455, 457 to 458, and 459 correspond to 401 to 405, 407 to 408, and 409, respectively, in Fig. 4A. In the case of an STB that does not employ an input unit such as a keyboard or pointing device or an output unit such as a display, the input unit 453 and output unit 454 can be omitted. Fig. 4B is characterized by a processing unit related to communication functions such as receiving broadcast signals and a processing unit for processing received broadcast signals (456a to 456d).

[0050] The network connection unit 456a is a connection module for realizing network connections such as wired LAN, wireless LAN, Bluetooth, etc. The tuner 456b is a tuner for receiving broadcast waves (broadcast signals) such as satellite broadcasts and cable television broadcasts, and the decoder 456c is a decoder for converting the received broadcast waves (broadcast signals) into a format that can be viewed on a display. The descrambler 456d is a module for performing restriction removal processing or decryption processing of scrambled (limited reception or encrypted) broadcast signals.

[0051] Note that Figure 4B is written as a functional block diagram to help understand the configuration, but in reality, it is also possible to use an SOC (system on chip) that integrates the functions required for an STB, such as decoder function and descrambler function, into a single chip.

[0052] (Concept of the present invention) One of the features of the present invention is the configuration and provision method of information provision content. In one embodiment of the present invention, the content provided to customers includes at least two types. One is program content (hereinafter also referred to as "content A"), and the other is advertising content (hereinafter also referred to as "content B").

[0053] Content A is selected as content that viewers (customers) will want to view. Although the present invention is not limited to this, in one embodiment, the contents within a category are the same type of content. Viewers can increase the probability of viewing the content by experiencing viewing such content of the same type multiple times. Content B is typically advertising content, and is designed to increase the probability of viewing, as described below. In one embodiment of the present invention, content A is non-advertising content and content B is advertising content.

[0054] In one embodiment of the present invention, the contents of these two categories are alternately streamed for a relatively short period of time (if there are three or more categories of contents, they are rotated for a relatively short period of time, for example). In one embodiment of the present invention, alternating content from two categories can increase the probability that a customer will view content B (e.g., an advertisement) immediately after receiving attention from content A (e.g., a program). Furthermore, if multiple pieces of content A have a storyline, customers will want to view the story of content A to the end, which can increase the probability that they will end up viewing content A, including content B, to the end. In this case, although there is no particular restriction on the relationship between content A and content B, if there is a certain degree of relationship between the two, it is expected that the viewing probability will be further increased.

[0055] Generally, when content A is a program and content B is an advertisement, a similar broadcast format for the combination is conventional television broadcasting (in which commercials of about 15 to 30 seconds are aired between programs or in between program broadcasts), but in conventional television broadcasting, the length of content B is shorter than the length of content A. On the other hand, one embodiment of the present invention is characterized in that the playback time of content B during alternating playback is equal to or longer than the playback time of content A. Furthermore, it is also possible to control the two types of content that are alternately played back so that they are related to each other (the specific configuration will be described later).

[0056] Furthermore, in one embodiment of the present invention, when a combination of content A and content B is alternately played, the concepts of "length" (the length of a set of content from multiple categories) and "roll length" (the length of one set or one group formed by repeatedly playing a combination of content) are introduced to determine how many times this combination is played back to form one set. Although the present invention is not limited to this, in one embodiment, one length (for example, the length of a combination of content A and content B) is about 30 seconds, and one roll length (the length of one set or one group formed by repeatedly playing a set of content) is set to about 4 to 5 minutes. More specifically, by repeatedly playing a combination (30 seconds) of program content (15 seconds) and an advertisement (15 seconds) 8 to 10 times, the total playback time is 4 to 5 minutes, and these 4 to 5 minutes constitute one roll. In one embodiment of the present invention, one or more roles are also referred to as "role content."

[0057] (Hierarchical structure of content A and content B) In one embodiment of the present invention, content A and content B are not limited to being each a single piece of content, but may be composed of multiple pieces of content. For example, even when "content A" is described for the sake of explanation, the content may include two or more pieces of program content. Also, even when "content B" is described, the content may include two or more pieces of advertising content. For example, if the individual contents belonging to content category A are a1, a2, and a3, and the individual contents belonging to content category B are b1, b2, and b3, the combinations can be configured in a variety of ways, including a1·b1, a1·b1·b1, a1·b1·b2·b3, a1·a2·b1, a1·a2·a3·b3·b3, and so on.

[0058] In one embodiment, the basis for setting the roll length is derived from the average time a customer spends in a convenience store. In other retail stores, the roll length may be adjusted based on the average time a customer spends in the store. Furthermore, if the average time spent in the same store varies depending on the season, weather, or time of day, the roll length and roll content configuration in one embodiment of the present invention can be flexibly adjusted.

[0059] One of the basic technical ideas of the present invention, although not limited to this, is to perform various controls to repeatedly play content belonging to two or more categories in short lengths in order to attract the attention of users (customers) who visit a store for various purposes, such as shopping.

[0060] Furthermore, if a store is part of a chain or franchise, uniformly adopting the installation of a display on the wall of the cash register counter according to one embodiment of the present invention will standardize the store experience for customers and increase customer awareness and attention to information content such as programs and advertisements.

[0061] These technological ideas are the basic concepts for realizing a content distribution system that can gain customer recognition as a medium that constantly transmits information of interest, whereas conventional signage is perceived as a medium that constantly displays advertisements.

[0062] Another feature of the present invention is that two or more types of content, such as content A and content B, can be configured so that their "selection" and "ratio" can be set at least individually. One example of the "ratio" here is the ratio of the playback time of content A and / or content B within a roll content. Another example is the appearance ratio of content A and / or content B within a specified time or period, or within a specified number of roll contents. In one embodiment of the present invention, the "selection" of content A or content B may refer to information attached to each content or utilize external information. Furthermore, the "selection" of content here also includes changing or replacing content.

[0063] (Dynamic composition of role content) Another feature of the present invention is that role content can be configured statically or dynamically, with high flexibility. This flexibility is based on an index of whether the content is static or dynamic (dynamic degree), which ranges from 0% to 100%. A dynamic degree of 0% is a completely static state. A dynamic degree of 100% is a completely dynamic state, which is the final form that this invention aims for. In one embodiment of the present invention, the composition of role content starts from a completely static state, and its flexibility is increased with the aim of creating completely dynamic role content.

[0064] (Statically configuring role content) In one embodiment of the present invention, when role content is configured to be completely static, attached information is preset individually for content A and / or content B. In one embodiment, this attached information is completely static tag information. In this case, tags as preset information include those shown in the table below.

[0065] [Table 1] In Table 1 above, an example of a "broadcast time slot" tag is "18:00~4:59," and such a tag is directly or indirectly assigned to content. An example of such content is content related to alcoholic beverages. For content to which such a broadcast time slot tag is directly or indirectly assigned, control can be exercised, such as limiting broadcast to the time slot specified in the tag, or, depending on the content, avoiding broadcast during that time slot. Furthermore, adjustments can be made, such as increasing or decreasing the frequency of broadcasts during that time slot.

[0066] Here, directly assigning a tag to content means directly linking the tag to a specific piece of content. Indirectly assigning a tag to content means indirectly linking the tag to a specific piece of content via another type of intermediate tag. For example, if a "broadcast time slot" tag such as "18:00-4:59" is linked to an intermediate tag representing the category "alcoholic beverages," it is indirectly linked to content to which the same intermediate tag "alcoholic beverages" has been assigned.

[0067] Similarly, in the following embodiment of the present invention, tag information can be directly or indirectly linked to content, but for convenience of explanation, the following description will focus on an example in which tag information is directly linked to content.

[0068] In Table 1 above, examples of "attribute information of target customers" tags include "men in their 30s to 50s" and "high school girls," and these tags are assigned to content. Content tagged with "attribute information of target customers" can be interpreted as content that is best suited for distribution to the target customers listed in the tag.

[0069] In Table 1 above, examples of "information about broadcast content" tags include "cosmetics" for content related to cosmetics, and "beer" and / or "alcoholic beverages" for content related to beer. Multiple such tags can be assigned to a single piece of content. Also, tags of the same type can be assigned hierarchically to a single piece of content (for example, tags such as "lager," "beer," and "alcoholic beverages" can be assigned to beer advertising content or program content).

[0070] In Table 1 above, the "store location information" tag includes, for example, tags such as "for residential area stores," "for roadside stores," and "for business district stores," and these tags are assigned to content. Content tagged with the "for residential area stores" tag can be interpreted as being desirably distributed to residential area stores.

[0071] In Table 1 above, the "Installation information of fixtures installed in stores" tag includes, for example, tags such as "Fixture type," "Fixture size," and "Installation location," and these tags are assigned to content. For example, this enables distribution control such as delivering tobacco advertising content to a store that has tobacco fixtures installed, or distribution control such as changing the display position or display area of ​​related advertising content on in-store signage depending on the fixture installation location.

[0072] (Dynamic composition of role content) In one embodiment of the present invention, when role content is dynamically configured, attached information is dynamically assigned to content A and / or content B, and external information is referenced to determine or change the configuration. In one embodiment, this dynamic assignment of attached information and reference to external information is dynamic, moving away from the completely static state of fixed tag information. In this case, the attached information and external information include dynamic combinations of the tags in the table above as well as external information such as that in the table below.

[0073] [Table 2] In Table 2 above, "date and time information" can be obtained, for example, from a timekeeping unit within the system (it may also be configured to obtain date and time information from an external system not shown). Also, in the above table, "temperature information" and "humidity information" can be obtained from devices or sensors inside or outside the system not shown.

[0074] In Table 2 above, "weather information," "news information," and "local government information" can be acquired from an external server (not shown).

[0075] In Table 2 above, the "attribute information of the subject acquired from the AI ​​camera" can be acquired from an external server (not shown). Here, object recognition is performed by the AI ​​camera to extract the attribute information of the subject. In one embodiment of the present invention, the AI ​​camera uses known technology to recognize objects such as installations in a store, the overall view and faces of people in the store, etc., as objects, and tracks the recognized objects. In one embodiment, people in the store include customers (visitors) who visit the store, and visitors recognized by the AI ​​camera can have their gender, age (or age group), etc. identified from the overall view and facial recognition status.

[0076] In one embodiment, the AI ​​camera can detect whether a recognized customer is wearing a mask and whether they are looking at a display installed in the store based on the direction of their face and eyes.

[0077] Furthermore, in one embodiment, the AI ​​camera can detect the following behaviors ((a) to (f)) of the recognized visitor. (a) A customer has arrived / a customer has left. (b) The customer removed the product from the shelf / returned the product to the shelf. (c) A customer places an item they picked up from the shelf in their shopping cart. (d) The customer looks at the product he has picked up. (e) The customer is checking out the items at the cash register. (f) A customer is looking at a display installed in a store.

[0078] In one embodiment, the AI ​​camera can sequentially recognize the number of customers currently in the store, the customer demographics, etc. based on one or more recognized customers and their attributes, etc.

[0079] In Table 2 above, the "viewing rate of distributed content that can be acquired by an AI camera" is obtained, for example, by the AI ​​camera detecting that a customer's gaze is directed toward a display installed in the store. In one embodiment of the present invention, a method for detecting whether a customer's line of sight is directed toward the display using an AI camera (e.g., camera 131, 141, 151) installed above the display is as follows: If the direction of the customer's face as seen by the AI ​​camera is represented and managed by R=Roll, P=Pitch, and Y=Yaw, |P|≦10°, and |Y|≦10° When the above expression is satisfied, it is determined that the customer's face is facing the display and the customer is viewing the content on the display.

[0080] In one embodiment of the present invention, a time element is further added, and if the direction of a customer's face as seen by an AI camera installed above the display continuously meets the above conditions for a certain period of time or more (for example, for one second or more, or three seconds or more), it may be determined that the customer is viewing content on the display.

[0081] Furthermore, in one embodiment of the present invention, the orientation of a customer's face as seen by an AI camera installed above the display may be weighted according to the length of time the above conditions are met. In this case, weighting may be performed in such a way that, for example, a customer watching content on the display for 10 seconds may be counted as more viewing points for the content than a customer watching content on the display for 3 seconds.

[0082] In one embodiment of the present invention, the content may be managed so that viewing by a larger number of different customers is more highly valued. For example, more viewing points may be added to the content if 10 different customers view the same content on the display for a total of 20 seconds than if two customers each view the same content on the display for 10 seconds.

[0083] In Table 2 above, "Sales per product" can be obtained by linking with the POS register shown in Figures 1 and 2. Alternatively, an AI camera can be used to recognize how customers pay for products at the register, and the attribute information (price, etc.) of each product can be referenced in a database to record sales for each product.

[0084] In this way, data acquired through the AI ​​camera is stored and accumulated in databases both inside and outside the system, and can be used for analytical processing, etc.

[0085] In Table 2 above, the "keywords used in SNS" can be obtained, for example, from an external SNS server, web crawler, or database (not shown) outside the system.

[0086] In Table 2 above, "Advertising ID, visitor attributes obtained via advertising ID" refers to, as an example, the advertising ID of the user application obtained via a beacon installed in the store.

[0087] Here, "advertising ID" refers to an anonymous and unique device ID used by applications installed on users' smartphones, tablet devices, etc. This advertising ID is generally used to measure the advertising exposure of users using the user device, count the number of such users, and perform statistical analysis.

[0088] Furthermore, a short-range wireless terminal such as a Wi-Fi beacon terminal or a Bluetooth transceiver terminal is employed as the beacon in one embodiment of the present invention, and an advertising ID held by the user terminal (or an application installed on the user terminal) is acquired via the beacon. In other embodiments of the present invention, instead of or in addition to this advertising ID, terminal identification information such as the MAC address of the user terminal can also be acquired. When configured to acquire a MAC address, the MAC address can be acquired not only from the user terminal (a smartphone or a tablet terminal), but also from a card that can access the network.

[0089] This advertising ID is then provided to the beacon via an app installed on the customer's smartphone or other device. The advertising ID obtained via the beacon is saved and accumulated in a database inside or outside the system and can be used for analysis and other purposes.

[0090] (Base and use of attribute information via advertising ID) In one embodiment of the present invention, an external database of a content distribution system according to one embodiment of the present invention stores purchase information and attribute information using an advertising ID as a key, and can be used as appropriate. For example, by referencing purchase information and attribute information acquired using this advertising ID as a key, content can be distributed to users who have transmitted this advertising ID.

[0091] (Targeted delivery to customers' devices, etc.) In another embodiment of the present invention, the system can be configured to acquire a terminal ID (MAC address, etc.) from a customer's terminal such as a smartphone instead of or in addition to the advertising ID. In this case, it is possible to not only deliver targeted information to specific customers via the store display, but also to deliver targeted information individually to each customer's terminal. Furthermore, even if device IDs (such as MAC addresses) are not obtained, similar individually targeted delivery is possible by time-stamping the advertising IDs obtained from beacons, content delivery logs, and recognition results from AI cameras.For example, by aggregating the advertising IDs (and acquisition date and time) obtained from user devices via beacons installed at in-store cash registers, the content delivery logs (delivery content and start date and time of delivery), and the location of customers recognized by AI cameras (including whether they were near the cash register) and the date and time of recognition, it can be inferred that customers recognized near the cash registers are also looking at advertisements delivered on store signage (the accuracy of this inference can be further improved by combining gaze recognition), making it possible to infer that customers with a specific advertising ID viewed a certain advertisement delivered on store signage at a certain time. This makes it possible to individually deliver advertisements related to the advertisement to user terminals having this advertisement ID at any timing (for example, after the customer leaves the store).

[0092] (Enhancing content delivery via store displays) Furthermore, in one embodiment of the present invention, it is also possible to strengthen targeted advertising. For example, in a situation where advertisements are delivered to the user terminals of one or more customers before they visit a store and aggregation is performed to some extent by acquiring advertising IDs from the one or more user terminals, if a visit of a certain customer is detected via a beacon installed in the store, the advertising ID held by that user terminal can be obtained, and individual related advertisements, etc. can be delivered to that terminal based on the acquired advertising ID. In one embodiment of the present invention, in addition to or instead of the above embodiment, it is also possible to deliver relevant advertisements, etc., to the terminal via store signage while the customer is in the store. In this case, if an AI camera detects that the customer is looking at the store signage and then controls the delivery of relevant advertisements, etc., the appeal effect can be further improved.

[0093] (Dynamic tag generation, etc.) In one embodiment of the present invention, the attached information may be newly generated based on other attached information or external information. For example, new related attached information may be generated based on multiple pieces of attached information / external information, or items common to multiple pieces of attached information / external information may be extracted as new attached information.

[0094] In one embodiment of the present invention, the external information may be newly generated based on external information consisting of other specific information different from the specific information, such as information on visitor attributes derived based on specific event information and weather forecast information for the date when the specific event is held, or information on the number of visitors and visitor attributes for the current event derived based on specific event information and the number of visitors and visitor attributes for the previous event.

[0095] Fig. 5 shows a basic processing flow in a content distribution system according to one embodiment of the present invention. The processing flow shown in the figure provides an overview of the processing for generating content to be provided to customers via displays installed in stores, as well as the processing for controlling the playback of the content.

[0096] The processes may be collectively processed in part or in whole by the information management server 31 and / or the content management server 32, or may be performed in part or in whole by the store terminal and / or the STB. For example, content that is commonly used nationwide or in a wide area may be collectively processed by the information management server 31 and / or the content management server 32, while content that is used in a local area or unique to that store may be performed by the store terminal and / or the STB. Therefore, when content generated by the information management server 31 and / or the content management server 32 is played in each store, the content is downloaded via the store terminal or the STB. Furthermore, one piece of content information may be generated by the information management server 31 (and / or the content management server 32) and the store terminal (and / or the STB) working together. Such distributed processing is a common feature throughout the entire system flow, not limited to the flow shown in Figure 5. Therefore, the specific processing entities described for the sake of convenience are not limited to these.

[0097] Although not shown in FIG. 5, information such as the content configuration and number of plays for each store may be fed back to the information management server 31 (and / or the content management server 32) as needed.

[0098] 5, when processing starts in step S501, the process proceeds to step S502, where the roll length is determined. In one embodiment, this roll length is determined in advance as a fixed length, such as 5 minutes, in which case this step simply reads out that information. Alternatively, in another embodiment, the length is dynamically determined depending on the location, date, time, or time zone where the content that makes up the roll is played.

[0099] In another embodiment of the present invention, in step S502, when the next roll to be played is read from a predetermined schedule progression table (not shown), its length is acquired. In another embodiment of the present invention, this schedule progression table is dynamically determined for each store or according to the date, time, or time zone.

[0100] In step S503, a cycle within the roll is determined. As described above, in one embodiment of the present invention, short content A and content B can be repeatedly played, and the number of times they are to be repeated within the roll is determined. In this step, the cycle is determined. Also, the length within the roll is determined. Alternatively, in other embodiments of the present invention, the length may be determined first. In that case, step S503 is processing for determining the length within the roll (the cycle within the roll is then automatically determined).

[0101] Next, the process proceeds to step S504, where content A and content B within one duration are determined. If three or more categories are included, content for each category is determined. At this time, content A and content B are determined so that they fit within one duration, while the ratio of their respective lengths is also taken into consideration. The specific determination method has the following variations.

[0102] (1) Content A and content B that fit into the same length are selected automatically or manually from a combination table.

[0103] (2) Content A is first selected based on the situation in the store so that it fits within the time limit, and then content B is selected as needed so that it fits within the remaining time limit (it is also possible that content B is not newly selected, and the currently set content is used as is).

[0104] (3) Depending on the situation in the store, content B that fits within the time limit is first selected, and then content A that fits within the remaining time limit is selected (it is also possible that content A is not newly selected, and the currently set content is used as is).

[0105] (4) Content A is first selected based on the weather, temperature, and other conditions around the store, so that it fits within the time limit, and then content B is selected so that it fits within the remaining time limit (it is also possible that content B is not newly selected, and the currently set content is used as is).

[0106] (5) Content B is first selected based on the weather, temperature, and other conditions around the store, so that it fits within the time limit, and then content A is selected so that it fits within the remaining time limit (it is also possible that content A is not newly selected, and the currently set content is used as is).

[0107] (6) The tag information is referenced to select content A and / or content B. At this time, content A may be selected first, and then content B may be selected so that it fits within the remaining time, or content B may be selected first, and then content A may be selected so that it fits within the remaining time. Alternatively, content A and content B may be selected individually based on the tag information provided (in this case, the total length of the selected content is the duration).

[0108] (7) The external information is referenced to select content A and / or content B. At this time, content A may be selected first, and then content B may be selected so that it fits within the remaining time, or content B may be selected first, and then content A may be selected so that it fits within the remaining time. Alternatively, content A and content B may be selected individually with reference to external information (in this case, the total length of the selected content is the duration).

[0109] The table below shows examples of suitable combinations of the ratio between the length of content A and the length of content B within one scale, the duration of one scale, and the duration of one roll in one embodiment of the present invention. Note that in each column of the table below, "~" indicates a range from the lower limit to the upper limit. [Table 3] In Table 3 above, what can be said in common for Examples 1 to 5 is that the length of each roll is at least three times the length of one shaku. This means that two types of content are alternately repeated at least three times in one roll.

[0110] Furthermore, the meaning of "two types of content being repeated at least three times in an alternating manner in one roll" does not only mean that a fixed combination of one content A1 (playback time PA) selected from category A (content) and one content B1 (playback time PB) selected from category B (content) is repeated three times or more, but also includes an alternating combination of multiple contents A selected from category A and multiple contents B selected from category B repeated three times or more. For example, a repetition in one roll such as A1 (playback time 5 seconds) → B1 (2 seconds) → A2 (7 seconds) → B2 (3 seconds) → A3 (6 seconds) → B2 (6 seconds) is also included in "two types of content being repeated at least three times in an alternating manner in one roll."

[0111] In addition, the "degree" of the time length and the "approximately" of the ratio in Example 5 of Table 3 above are intended to include an error of about plus or minus 15%, respectively.

[0112] In Table 3 above, the roll length for Example 1 is set to cover a range that can cover expected customer behavior, including cases where a customer goes directly to the cash register and then leaves the store, such as purchasing a single cigarette (lower limit 60 seconds), normal shopping (4 to 5 minutes), and cases where a customer uses one or more of the following: a copy machine, multimedia terminal, ATM, or eat-in space (upper limit 900 seconds).

[0113] In addition, the roll length in Example 2 excludes use of the eat-in space in order to cover the range of expected customer behavior, and assumes cases where customers go directly to the cash register and leave the store, such as purchasing a single cigarette (lower limit 60 seconds), regular shopping (4 to 5 minutes), and cases where customers use one or more of the copy machine, communication port, or ATM (upper limit 600 seconds).

[0114] In addition, the roll length in Example 3 is within a range that can cover expected shopping behavior, such as a case where a customer purchases a single item of cigarettes and then goes straight to the cash register and leaves the store (lower limit 60 seconds), and a case where a customer spends some time microwaving their lunch box / waiting for coffee after an average stay time (4 to 5 minutes) (upper limit 420 seconds).

[0115] The roll length in Example 4 is assumed to be in the range of an average customer stay time (4 to 5 minutes).

[0116] The roll length in Example 5 is assumed to be the average value of the average stay time of customers (4 to 5 minutes).

[0117] In Table 3 above, the length of one segment in Example 1 is assumed to be the minimum length considered necessary to watch a program (15 seconds) plus a bumper ad (5-6 seconds) (lower limit: 20-21 seconds), and also to be a program (short movie) of approximately 180 seconds plus approximately 15 seconds of commercial time (upper limit: 200 seconds).

[0118] In addition, the length of one segment in Example 2 is assumed to be the minimum length considered necessary to watch a program (15 seconds) plus a bumper advertisement (5-6 seconds) (lower limit: 20-21 seconds), and also to be 15-60 seconds of program plus 30-75 seconds of commercials (upper limit: 90 seconds).

[0119] In addition, the length of one segment in Example 3 is assumed to be a 15-second program and advertisement (lower limit: 30 seconds), or a 15-60-second program plus 30-75 seconds of commercials (upper limit: 90 seconds).

[0120] In addition, the length of one segment in Example 4 is assumed to be a 15-second program and advertisement (lower limit: 30 seconds), or a 15-30-second program plus a 15-30-second commercial (upper limit: 60 seconds).

[0121] In addition, the length of one piece of content in the fifth embodiment is assumed to be 15 seconds for each program and advertisement (30 seconds).

[0122] Regarding the time ratio A:B in Table 3 above, the range of adjustments is assumed for each of Examples 1 to 5 depending on user reaction and viewability. Incidentally, the Japan Commercial Broadcasters Association sets the amount of commercials broadcast per program per week at about 18% (1:0.18).

[0123] (Dynamic content "selection" and "ratio" changes) In one embodiment of the present invention, the tag information and external information described above can be used to select content or change the time ratio A:B in Table 3 above. For example, it is effective to select content or change the ratio based on user attributes or visitor attributes acquired by an AI camera. It is also effective to select content or change the ratio based on past information on specific parameters by referring to external information. Furthermore, as described above, the user attributes or visitor attributes can also be acquired based on the advertisement ID acquired via a beacon or the like.

[0124] In step S505, the lengths that make up one roll, which have been determined in the previous step, are played back one by one. In one embodiment of the present invention, once playback of one length has finished, the process proceeds to step S506.

[0125] In step S506, it is determined whether to replace the content details in the next duration and / or whether to change the content ratio. In one embodiment of the present invention, this step can be omitted if once the content of the roll is determined, the content of the duration will not be changed until playback of that roll is completed; otherwise, a determination is made in this step. If the answer is Yes in this step, the process returns to step S504, and if the answer is No, the process proceeds to step S507. Note that if the answer is Yes in this step and the process returns to step S504, the dynamic change in the content "selection" and "ratio" in this step is one of the features of one embodiment of the present invention.

[0126] ("Selection" and "Ratio Variation" variations) In other words, in one embodiment of the present invention, when selecting (including replacing) content, content A and / or content B stored in a database inside or outside the system can be selected to have common elements in their attribute information and / or external information.

[0127] Furthermore, in one embodiment of the present invention, when selecting (including replacing) content and / or setting (including changing) the ratio, it is possible to present the selection and / or ratio setting for content A and / or content B based on the results of optimizing at least one piece of external information that is accumulated and managed over time as a parameter. Specifically, attribute information and / or external information accumulated in a database inside or outside the system is referenced, and content A and / or content B that matches the setting conditions is presented or set.

[0128] Furthermore, these selections and / or ratio settings can be automated, using the results of machine learning based on attribute information stored in databases inside and outside the system and / or external information.

[0129] The above variations are similarly applied to the "selection" and "ratio variation" described with reference to Figures 6 and 15, for example, to the extent that they do not cause technical contradictions.

[0130] In step S507, it is determined whether the roll has ended. If No, the process returns to step S505, but if Yes, the process ends.

[0131] Fig. 6 shows a processing flow in a content distribution system according to one embodiment of the present invention. Specifically, it shows a detailed processing flow of step S504 in Fig. 5. In step S504, content A and content B can be selected by various processes, but Fig. 6 illustrates examples of how content A and content B are processed when they are selected as being related to each other and when they are not.

[0132] When the process starts in step S601, the process proceeds to step S602, where it is determined whether or not a relationship is required between the selected content A and content B. If the answer is Yes in this step, the process proceeds to step S603, and if No, the process proceeds to step S606.

[0133] In step S603, content A is determined, and features are extracted from content A. Content A may be determined by extracting content from a group of pre-registered contents in a predetermined order, or by random extraction. Content A may also be determined based on external information (visitor attributes, season, event, weather, temperature, etc.). Features extracted from content A include, for example, the title of the content and the names of products and events that appear in the content. In addition, if there is additional information or attribute information such as tags linked to content A, this may be referenced. This is considered to be feature information of content A.

[0134] In step S604, content B is extracted based on the features (feature information) of content A extracted in the previous step. For example, content B is extracted by tracing the feature information of content B associated with the feature information of content A described above (in this case, an association table (not shown) is referenced).

[0135] Next, the process proceeds to step S605, where content B is determined following content A. At this time, not only the relevance of the contents A and B but also the ratio of their lengths and the length when they are combined may be taken into consideration.

[0136] In steps S603 to S605, content A is determined first and then content B is determined, but the present invention is not limited to this, and content B may be determined first and then content A may be determined.

[0137] In step S606, content A is first determined. Content A may be selected from a group of pre-registered contents in a predetermined order, or may be selected randomly. Content A may also be selected based on external information (visitor attributes, season, event, weather, temperature, etc.). Next, the process proceeds to step S607, where content B is determined. Content B may be selected from a group of pre-registered contents in a predetermined order, or may be selected randomly. Content B may also be selected based on external information (visitor attributes, season, event, weather, temperature, etc.).

[0138] In step S608, the process of this flow ends.

[0139] Figures 7 and 8 show examples of displays on a display in a content distribution system according to one embodiment of the present invention. In the explanation given below with reference to Figures 7 and 8, not only will a method of presenting information be explained, but also the information processing process leading up to such information display will be explained as necessary.

[0140] (Display pattern of content A) Figures 7(A) to (D) are examples of display patterns for content A. The specific content of content A is a ranking program. Figures 7(A) and (B) are examples of the opening screen for this program, and Figures 7(C) and (D) are examples of the content display for this program.

[0141] In Figure 7(A), title screens 711 to 713 are displayed on each display. That is, screens 711 to 713 correspond to the screens of displays 131, 141, and 151, respectively. Each screen displays the title "FamilyMart Anything Ranking." Known presentation techniques such as slide-in, fade, and wipe can be used to display title screens 711 to 713.

[0142] 7(B), the screens of displays 131, 141, and 151 are all considered to be a single integrated area 721, and the title is displayed using the entire area of ​​area 721 (a so-called "break-through" display). This "break-through" display is an impactful method of expression, and is effective not only for display in programs, but also for displaying advertisements, which is a typical example of content B.

[0143] FIG. 7(C) shows an example of a ranking program display. Among the screens 731-733 corresponding to displays 131, 141, and 151, the central screen 732 displays a specific title related to the ranking ("TOKYO Onigiri Rankings"), while the left and right screens 731 and 733 display the same ranking content, improving visibility and the likelihood of it being seen from the left and right sides of a large store. The products ranked on screens 731 and 733 are the types of onigiri that sold the most in stores in Tokyo or its 23 wards. As shown in FIG. 7(C), the top five onigiri are: 1st place: Sea Chicken Mayonnaise, 2nd place: Red Salmon, 3rd place: Super Barley Nozawana Dried Chirimen, 4th place: Hidaka Kelp, and 5th place: Matured Mackerel Onigiri. These ranked products can be displayed using known presentation techniques such as slide-in, fade-in, and wipe-in.

[0144] 7(D) shows another example of the display of a ranking program. Ranking information is displayed individually on screens 741 to 743, which correspond to the screens of displays 131, 141, and 151, respectively. That is, screen 741 displays the bento box rankings from 1st to 5th place, screen 742 displays the sweet bun rankings from 1st to 5th place, and screen 743 displays the frozen food rankings from 1st to 5th place. Note that known presentation techniques such as slide-in, fade, and wipe can be used to display these ranked products.

[0145] In FIG. 7(C), the central screen 732 is controlled to display a title related to the ranking, and the left and right screens 731 and 733 are controlled to display the same ranking content, but the present invention is not limited to this, and it is also possible to control the central screen 732 to display a title related to the ranking, and the left and right screens 731 and 733 to display different ranking content. Further examples of utilization of the frame (display) in the content distribution system according to one embodiment of the present invention will be illustrated below.

[0146] (Using frames: How to use displays 131, 141, and 151) In one embodiment of the present invention, various uses of the displays 131, 141, and 151 are envisaged (the above-mentioned cut-out display is one example). Typical examples are as follows.

[0147] (1) Video page 3 The same video or a different video on at least one screen is displayed on displays 131, 141, and 151. Linking the video display on three screens enables creative information transmission that has never been possible before.

[0148] (2) 2 video screens + 1 still image screen Of the displays 131, 141, and 151, one screen displays a still image, and the other two screens display moving images. By fixing some of the screens as still images, it is possible to reinforce / strengthen the moving image displays on the other screens.

[0149] (3) 3 still images The same still image is displayed on the displays 131, 141, and 151, or a different still image is displayed on at least one screen. This allows the message to be fixed constantly, improving the effect of attracting attention. This is effective for announcing campaigns and bargain information.

[0150] (4) Full Jack Video The video is displayed across the entire display area, piercing through displays 131, 141, and 151. This increases the impact on customers and enables creative information transmission, resulting in a highly appealing effect.

[0151] (5) Full Jack still images Displays 131, 141, and 151 are cut through and still images are displayed across the entire area, enabling impactful branding and strong message transmission.

[0152] (6) Video + video, video + still image, still image + still image division The display area of ​​the displays 131, 141, and 151 can be divided into two at any position within the entire area, and a split display of video + video, video + still image, or still image + still image can be performed. This allows for a variety of expressions that are not limited to the three screens described above, further expanding the range of expression. The same applies when a single large display is used, and the display can be divided into two or more parts for display. In other words, there is no particular restriction on the number of displays used and the number of divisions relative to the total display area.

[0153] The above frame utilization patterns (1) to (6) are merely examples of one embodiment of the present invention, and the present invention is not limited to these patterns. Furthermore, the above frame utilization patterns (1) to (6) are not restricted to the type of content category (content A or content B) and can be used for any category of content (the same applies below). Examples include double-name advertising of products from different industries using a large screen, brand collaboration within the same company (such as collaboration between different brands of beverages), and cross-selling. Furthermore, not only can moving images and still images be used, but audio via speakers can also be used.

[0154] (Examples of programs other than ranking programs, and examples of programs and advertising integration) FIG. 8 shows an example of a display in a content distribution system according to one embodiment of the present invention, illustrating an example of a program other than the ranking program shown in FIG. 7. In one embodiment, the program shown in FIG. 8 is a display on displays 131, 141, and 151 of user messages posted to SNSs and the like crawled by information management server 31 and / or content management server 32 (in other embodiments, information management server 31 and / or content management server 32 can acquire user messages crawled by an external crawler and display them on displays 131, 141, and 151). Although the present invention is not limited to this, when crawling, user comments and the like are extracted based on a specific hashtag (here, "#Famichiki"). Note that "Famichiki" is a registered trademark (the same applies hereinafter).

[0155] In Figure 8, display areas A to C correspond to displays 131, 141, and 151, and display area A displays user A's posted comments with accompanying photos, display area B displays user B's posted comments with accompanying photos, and display area C displays user C's posted comments with accompanying photos.

[0156] In FIG. 8, 811 to 814 are the username, comments, hashtags, and posted images of user A, 821 to 824 are the username, comments, hashtags, and posted images of user B, and 831 to 834 are the username, comments, hashtags, and posted images of user C.

[0157] As shown in Figure 8, the content displayed in display areas A to C is a program introducing the opinions of social media users about a product (Famichiki), and by using the store's product name ("#Famichiki") as the hashtag from which comments are extracted, it also serves as a lively advertisement for the product.

[0158] Although not shown, other embodiments include the following. That is, an advertisement is displayed cutting through the displays 131, 141, and 151, with a large product (e.g., beer) projected in the center, and multiple SNS comments related to the product randomly arranged around the product. The multiple comments may be displayed as if they are floating around the product. In this case, the advertisement (product) is the main focus of information transmission, and the program (comments about the product) is secondary.

[0159] In the content distribution system according to one embodiment of the present invention, it is also possible to transmit information by combining such programs with advertisements. Furthermore, in the content distribution system according to one embodiment of the present invention, in addition to the combination of SNS posted comments and products, there are other combinations such as the combination of a program introducing recipes for cooking or cocktails with products (such as cooking or alcoholic beverages), or the combination of a program introducing exercises or stretching with products (such as supplements).

[0160] As mentioned above, ranking programs and programs introducing comments from social media and the like have been given as examples of programs, but the present invention is not limited to these, and a wide range of content can be used as programs, such as news and disaster information programs, weather forecast programs, short drama and anime programs, special programs on local information, art wallpaper viewing programs, train operation information programs, and video posting and distribution programs by third parties.

[0161] (Content B display pattern) 9 shows an example of the display of content B (advertisement), which is a display example of a cross-industry double-name advertisement. In FIG. 9, a screen area 901 is provided with a video or still image advertisement display area 902 for snacks (fried chicken) provided by the store, and video or still image advertisement display areas 903 and 904 for beer drinks from another beverage company. Furthermore, in the center of the screen area 901, a discount offer message 905 is displayed for purchasing these products together.

[0162] In a content distribution system according to one embodiment of the present invention, it is possible to send advertisements under the names of two different businesses (different companies). In particular, if the advertisement display area is video, video advertisements for different businesses will be displayed simultaneously. Furthermore, if the combination of products under the name of two businesses is compatible, the appeal to customers can be further enhanced.

[0163] FIG. 10 shows another display example of content B (advertisement), which presents an advertisement linked to the outside temperature in the area where the store is located or in the vicinity of the store. Here, the outside temperature is based on information acquired by a content distribution system (server or store terminal) according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10(A) shows an example of an offer advertisement offering a fixed discount on a specified drink when the outside temperature (external information) is above a specified temperature. In FIG. 10(A), a screen area 1011 is provided with an outside temperature information display area 1012 and an offer advertisement (temperature discount coupon) 1013 offering a fixed discount on the specified drink. Any still image or video can be played in part or all of the other areas of the screen area 1011 (it is also possible not to play any video).

[0164] 10(B) shows an example of an advertisement offer to offer a fixed discount on a specific detergent when the outside temperature (external information) is above a specified temperature. In FIG. 10(B), a screen area 1021 is provided with an outside temperature information display area 1022 and an advertisement offer (midsummer day discount offer) 1023 to offer a fixed discount on a specific detergent. Any still image or video can be played in part or all of the other areas of the screen area 1021 (it is also possible not to play any video).

[0165] In relation to the embodiment described with reference to Fig. 10, the content distribution system according to one embodiment of the present invention can also play or display linked advertisements based on external information other than the outside temperature. For example, the following is one example.

[0166] (1) Event-linked / targeted advertising Advertisements for products suitable for celebratory events such as Coming of Age Day, Mother's Day, Father's Day, Christmas, etc. (for example, beverages such as beer, or foods such as sausages and ham) are played or displayed in time with the event. Linking such events with advertisements enables consistent branding and also promotes purchases by reminding customers of the timing of their purchases.

[0167] (2) Day-of-the-week and date-linked ads For example, a specific advertisement can be played or displayed only on Fridays of the weekend. By presenting advertisements linked to such calendar utilities, purchases can be promoted based on the day of the week or date.

[0168] (3) Time-based message advertising For example, targeting customers who work late into the night, a specific advertisement can be played or displayed only during the night. Alternatively, targeting customers who work until the regular time, a message advertisement such as "Today's a reward" can be displayed in the morning, a message advertisement such as "6 hours left" can be displayed in the afternoon, and a message advertisement such as "Thank you for your hard work" can be displayed after the regular time. By displaying advertisements in this way, it is possible to increase the customer's desire to purchase as a reward for themselves, or to send them a trial opportunity to try purchasing something just for today.

[0169] (4) Seasonal x Area-specific Scene Advertising For example, in the summer, advertisements for beverages and other items can be displayed alongside footage of a fireworks festival. In this case, it is also possible to link packages by area (and / or by the time of the event). This type of advertisement presentation allows for consistent branding and increases the attention-grabbing effect by appealing to the season and area.

[0170] Figure 11 shows the operational processing flow of an AI camera in a content distribution system according to one embodiment of the present invention. The AI ​​camera here refers to a camera module with AI recognition functionality. Furthermore, in one embodiment of the present invention, the AI ​​camera is one of the elements constituting the content distribution system according to the present invention, but the present invention is not limited to this, and the AI ​​camera may be an external system separate from the content distribution system according to the present invention (in this case, information acquired from the AI ​​camera is treated as external information).

[0171] Furthermore, even if an AI camera is one of the elements constituting a content distribution system according to one embodiment of the present invention, an external database can be used to store and manage the recognition and extraction results. In this case, the information actually acquired from the AI ​​camera is internal information, and when information acquired from the AI ​​camera and stored and managed in the external database is used as statistical information, for example, it may be treated as the use of external information. In other words, there are various ways to handle information obtained from an AI camera in a content distribution system according to one embodiment of the present invention, and even when this information is described as "external information," please note that there is no intention to exclude it from the essential elements that make up the content distribution system according to the present invention.

[0172] When AI camera processing is started in step S1101 of Figure 11, the process proceeds to step S1102, where it is determined whether to end the AI ​​camera processing operation.If the answer is Yes, the process proceeds to step S1109, where the processing of this flow ends, but if the answer is No, the process proceeds to step S1103 (which is the main processing of this flow).

[0173] In step S1103, in one embodiment, it is determined whether the AI ​​camera has caught (recognized) a person. If the answer is Yes, the process proceeds to step S1104, but if the answer is No, the process returns to step S1103 (so-called wait for an interrupt). Here, in this step, a person is treated as the type of subject, but the present invention is not limited to this, and specific items (specific products, product shelves, shopping carts, etc.) can also be recognized (by recognizing such a variety of items, it can be recognized that a customer has taken a product from a product shelf and placed the taken product in a shopping cart). In the following, in order to facilitate understanding of the invention, the object of recognition will be limited to a person.

[0174] In step S1104, the features of the recognized person are extracted. In one embodiment of the present invention, a known recognition technology can be used to determine and extract the person's gender, age group, etc. with a high accuracy rate.

[0175] In step S1105, it is determined whether the recognized person is a new customer. If the answer is Yes in this step, the process proceeds to step S1106, and if the answer is No, the process proceeds to step S1107. As an example, the following criteria (C1) to (C3) are used as criteria for determining whether or not a customer is a new customer in step S1105. (C1) Whether the customer was a first-time customer that day. (C2) Even if it is not the first time that day, whether the customer has re-entered the store after paying and leaving. (C3) Whether the customer is a completely new customer or whether a certain period of time has passed since the last time they left the store (for example, 12 hours, 3 days, or 1 week).

[0176] In step S1106, an identification ID is assigned to the recognized person, and information such as the person's characteristics (gender, age group, etc.), store information (store ID, etc.) that the person visited, and the date and time the person was recognized is sent to a content management server (CMS). In one embodiment of the present invention, the identification ID assigned to a recognized person is not used to identify the person and does not need to be permanent. Therefore, it may be a temporary ID that is retained for a certain period of time. Also, this identification ID may be omitted.

[0177] In one embodiment, the information sent to the CMS in step S1106 is stored and managed by the CMS (in other embodiments, it can also be managed by an external server), and can be processed as statistical information at any time.

[0178] In step S1107, it is determined whether the recognized person has performed a characteristic behavior (for example, the behaviors (a) to (f) described above). If the answer is Yes, the process proceeds to step S1108; if the answer is No, the process returns to step S1102.

[0179] In step S1108, the person ID, characteristic behavior, store information, and date and time information for the person who performed the characteristic behavior are sent to the CMS. In one embodiment, this information sent to the CMS is saved and managed by the CMS (in other embodiments, it can be managed by an external server), and can be processed as statistical information at any time.

[0180] Figure 12 shows the flow of adjustment processing such as replacing and inserting roll content in a content distribution system according to one embodiment of the present invention. This flow does not contradict the content replacement and ratio change processing shown in Figures 5 and 6, but shows a variation of the processing flow.

[0181] The feature of this flow is that it can make adjustments based on various external information (real-time information) and past external information (statistical information). For example, adjustments can be made based on statistical visitor attributes, adjustments based on current visitor attributes, adjustments based on current viewership ratings and past content distribution logs, or adjustments based on product sales.

[0182] Therefore, this flow can be operated as a variation of the flows shown in Figures 5 and 6, and can also be used when making subsequent modifications or adjustments to role content constructed based on the flows shown in Figures 5 and 6.

[0183] When processing starts in step S1201, the process proceeds to step S1202, where an instruction to adjust the roll content to be distributed is given. In one embodiment, this adjustment instruction is given individually at any timing by a user, such as an administrator of the content distribution system according to one embodiment of the present invention. Specifically, if you want to distribute certain content only to stores that have attributes that match specified location conditions, you specify the necessary conditions (adjustment or specification based on the store's location conditions). Alternatively, if you want to distribute certain content only to stores that have many customers with attributes that match specified conditions, you specify the necessary conditions (adjustment or specification based on customer attributes). The content extracted by the specification in this way is controlled so that it is distributed in accordance with the conditions at the specified store (and at the specified date and time as necessary) (described later).

[0184] In step S1203, processing is performed in the CMS, typically an extraction process such as screening of content that meets the conditions specified in the previous step.

[0185] In step S1204, it is determined whether the content extracted in the previous step can be inserted into the role content. Insertion refers to inserting new content into already constructed role content or replacing content in already constructed role content. In one embodiment, the determination of whether insertion is possible may be made automatically based on the length of the roll content, or may be made by accepting input of whether insertion is possible from the user. When accepting input of whether insertion is possible from the user, the decision of whether insertion is possible is made by a human being, but the presence of a means for accepting input of that decision means that a specific technical means is provided. If the answer is Yes in step S1204, the process proceeds to step S1205, and if the answer is No, the process returns to step S1202.

[0186] In step S1205, processing is performed to insert the content extracted in step S1203 into the roll content. In one embodiment of the present invention, the processing in this step can be performed for each store or each region. The roll content into which the new content has been inserted in this step can be distributed simultaneously to all stores at an appropriate timing, or can be distributed for each store or each region. Then, the process proceeds to step S1206.

[0187] In step S1206, it is determined whether there are any other adjustment instructions, and if Yes, the process returns to step S1202, and if No, the process proceeds to step S1207, where the flow ends. In one embodiment, it is also possible to configure the process to distribute roll content that has been inserted up to that point after reaching step S1207.

[0188] In other words, if step S1206 returns to S1202 after determining No, this means that adjustment is performed from a different perspective than the previous insertion, meaning that multi-dimensional combination adjustment is possible. Examples of such combined adjustments are shown in the table below. [Table 4] In the table above, items marked with (real-time measurement) indicate information that can be obtained in real time from sensor devices or information that can be obtained in real time from external servers, etc. Items that are not marked with (real-time measurement) may be information based on static tag information or currently compiled statistical information, etc.

[0189] Fig. 13 shows an example of the process of aggregating data collected in a content distribution system according to one embodiment of the present invention. In this figure, the number of visits to a certain store on a certain day is aggregated in one embodiment. This aggregated data can be aggregated by day, by week, or by month, as shown in the figure. It is also possible to aggregate data for each store, aggregate data for two or more stores, or aggregate data for each region. In one embodiment of the present invention, the aggregated data can be collected by counting the number of customers recognized by an AI camera installed in the store. In another embodiment of the present invention, the aggregated data can be collected based on advertising IDs obtained via beacons.

[0190] FIG. 14 shows another example of the aggregation process of data collected in a content distribution system according to one embodiment of the present invention. In this figure, in one embodiment, the number of customers visiting a certain store on a certain day by gender and generation is aggregated. This aggregate data can be aggregated by day, by week, or by month, as shown in the figure. It is also possible to aggregate data for each store, aggregate data for two or more stores, or aggregate data for each region. In one embodiment of the present invention, the aggregation shown in the figure can be realized by processing the aggregate data for each attribute of customers recognized by an AI camera installed in the store. In another embodiment of the present invention, such aggregate data can also be aggregated based on advertising IDs obtained via beacons.

[0191] (Variations in the aggregation process) Referring to Figures 13 and 14, an example of the aggregation process of collected data has been shown, but the present invention is not limited to this, and various aggregation processes and content distribution controls are possible, for example, as shown in the following (T1) to (T8).

[0192] (T1) If you want to target women in their 30s with content, the AI ​​camera will use its recognition to tally up the gender and age of customers within the camera's field of view for the previous 15 minutes, and determine which customer demographic is actually most prevalent. Such aggregated data may also be aggregated based on advertising IDs obtained via beacons. In this case, if the highest proportion of users is women in their 30s, inserting the target content multiple times within the standard role content can improve the visibility of the content among the target demographic.

[0193] (T2) By comparing the distribution log of the content distribution system with the log of the viewability measured by the AI ​​camera up to the past (n-1) days, the viewability rate by time for each content is calculated. In this case, content with a relatively low visibility rate on the nth day is deleted from the default role content and replaced with content with an overall high visibility rate, thereby improving visibility to customers.

[0194] (T3) Obtain event information (external information) for the coming week in the city, town, or village where a store is located, and tally the number of sports-related events included in that information. In this case, by inserting advertising content related to the sports-related event into the standard roll content from one week before the sports-related event until the day of the event, it is possible to increase the number of attendees attending the sports-related event and also increase store sales.

[0195] (T4) The number of customers at a given time, which can be measured in real time via AI cameras or beacons, or the number of people paying at the register at a given time, which can be collected in real time from POS data, is tallied. In this case, by controlling the in-store environment, such as increasing the volume of the content being delivered when the number of people counted at a specified time exceeds a specified threshold, or decreasing the volume of the content being delivered when the number of people counted at a specified time falls below a specified threshold, it is possible to improve the content recognition rate for customers and provide a more comfortable store environment.

[0196] (T5) Add the conditions "Available in stores: Available" and "Product name: 00" to the target content. Sales of specific products by time period for each store up to the past (n-1) days are compiled from POS data, and the best and worst selling time periods are also compiled. In this case, by inserting advertising content related to the product into the default roll content during the time slot when the product sells the most or the least on the nth day, it is possible to increase sales of the product.

[0197] (T6) Adjust and optimize the length of the roll content (the time it takes for content B to complete one cycle) depending on the number of customers in each time period. For example, if the average time spent in a store per person between 12:00 and 13:00 over the past three months was three minutes, adjustments and optimizations can be made by replacing the standard five-minute role content with a three-minute role content.

[0198] (T7) When the content, period, number of stores, and budget are specified, the store(s) and distribution time slot that maximizes the sum of the visibility rates of the target attributes during that period are calculated and tabulated. In this case, an algorithm can be provided that presents delivery conditions that will increase viewability and ad recall rates based on the aggregated data.

[0199] (T8) When content, period, target number of views (impressions), and budget are specified, the store(s) and distribution time slot that maximizes the number of views during that period are calculated and tabulated. In this case, it becomes possible to automatically select a combination of distribution stores that will effectively achieve a target number of views of a certain content.

[0200] In the examples of (T1) to (T8), the processing accuracy and efficiency can be further improved by applying known AI technology (machine learning technology).

[0201] Figure 15 shows the flow of adjustment processing such as replacing and inserting roll content in a content distribution system according to one embodiment of the present invention. This flow does not contradict the content replacement and ratio change processing shown in Figures 5, 6 and 12, but shows a variation of the processing flow.

[0202] The feature of this flow is that when giving instructions to adjust role content to be distributed, it is possible to specify only the adjustment items (the presentation of distribution conditions is automated). In addition, if the presented distribution conditions cannot be adopted as is, it is possible to modify the distribution conditions. Similar to the processing flow described with reference to FIG. 12, adjustments can be made based on various external information (real-time information) and past external information (statistical information).

[0203] When processing starts in step S1501, the process proceeds to step S1502, where an instruction to adjust the role content to be distributed is given. In one embodiment, this adjustment instruction is given individually at any timing by a user, such as an administrator of the content distribution system according to one embodiment of the present invention. Furthermore, the instruction content allows for a high degree of flexibility, such as specifying only a general combination of items such as time of day and visitor attributes, or specifying only a portion of the time period.

[0204] In step S15021, the information management server or the content management server calculates the distribution conditions based on the instruction items specified in the previous step (some of which may be numerically specified), and presents them to the user. Here, well-known optimization processing and machine learning processing can also be provided.

[0205] In step S15022, an input is received from the user as to whether the distribution conditions presented in the previous step are accepted or rejected. If the answer is Yes in this step, proceed to step S1503, and if the answer is No, proceed to step S15023. In step S15023, modifications to the distribution conditions are accepted (the conditions presented in step S15021 are modified here).

[0206] In step S1503, processing is performed in the CMS, typically an extraction process such as screening of content based on distribution conditions.

[0207] In step S1504, it is determined whether the content extracted in the previous step can be inserted into the role content. Insertion refers to inserting new content into already constructed role content or replacing content in already constructed role content. In one embodiment, the determination of whether insertion is possible may be made automatically based on the length of the roll content, or may be made by accepting input of whether insertion is possible from the user. When accepting input of whether insertion is possible from the user, the decision of whether insertion is possible is made by a human being, but the presence of a means for accepting input of that decision means that a specific technical means is provided. If the answer is Yes in step S1504, the process proceeds to step S1505. If the answer is No in this step, the process returns to step S1502. Alternatively, if the answer is No in this step, the process may return to step S15021 (indicated by the dashed arrow in FIG. 15) and control may be exercised to present alternative delivery conditions.

[0208] In step S1505, processing is performed to insert the content extracted in step S1503 into the roll content. In one embodiment of the present invention, the processing in this step can be performed for each store or each region. The roll content into which the new content has been inserted in this step can be distributed simultaneously to all stores at an appropriate timing, or can be distributed for each store or each region. Then, the process proceeds to step S1506.

[0209] In step S1506, it is determined whether or not there are any other adjustment instructions. If Yes, the process returns to step S1502, and if No, the process proceeds to step S1507, where the flow ends.

[0210] (Scenes where the present invention is applied) The following are examples of scenarios in which the content distribution system according to one embodiment of the present invention may be implemented. Those skilled in the art will readily understand that these scenarios can be realized by modifying or combining the above-described embodiments.

[0211] [Regarding the distribution of content A] (G1) Information on the rainy season front is matched with weather forecast information (external information) and distributed. (G2) Control the display so that it does not appear in areas where the rainy season front has passed. (G3) A ranking of popular phrases used by female students will be distributed to stores that have been determined by AI cameras to have a large number of young female students or middle-aged men (customer demographics). (G4) Select and deliver content based on statistical data on various visitor attributes (dynamic level is close to 0%). (G5) Displays a real-time ranking of items selling well in this store today. (G6) Display sweets rankings (display monthly / weekly / daily rankings by area such as nationwide / region / store as Content A). (G7) We will distribute sweets rankings during times when the number of female customers is high. (G8) Deliver programs containing keywords that match social media trending words (contextual targeting). (G9) If "baseball" is a trending word, deliver sports news (game updates). (G10) By using an AI camera to recognize the age group of customers, programs aimed at that age group can be streamed. (G11) When there are multiple pairs of parents and elementary school students in the store, we will deliver a ranking of children's toys. (G12) If it is estimated that many of the visitors are born in the 1980s, music videos from the 1990s will be streamed. (G13) Deliver the most suitable program (content A such as local content) based on the store's location (urban / rural). (G14) When it is estimated that there are many elderly customers among the store's customers, a program to prevent bank transfer fraud will be broadcast. (G15) Distribute programs with different creative content (two or more types of content A) and increase the distribution rate of the program with the higher city viewability (can be implemented by store or region). (G16) Obtains nearby crime prevention information from local government servers, etc., and distributes information on suspicious individuals, etc. (G17) When the temperature / humidity is high, show ghost stories or videos of cool scenery. (G18) Broadcast programs that are appropriate for the store location (for example, broadcasting rural landscapes in an urban store).

[0212] [Regarding the combination of content A and content B] (H1) After broadcasting a program aimed at female students, broadcast advertisements for products aimed at female students. (H2) After the broadcast of a children's program, advertisements for children's products are broadcast. (H3) After broadcasting an information program about the rainy season front, an advertisement for deodorant will be broadcast. (H4) After broadcasting a program aimed at parents, advertisements for products aimed at children are delivered (reverse targeting). (H5) Cross-test program and advertisement combinations to accumulate combinations that produce good results (cross-tabulation of viewability rates). (H6) If the viewability rate does not decrease (or increases) for a combination of a certain program and an advertisement, the advertisement ratio is increased. Alternatively, if the viewability rate decreases, the advertisement is replaced with content with a higher viewability rate and distributed. (H7) After the broadcast of a real-time sales ranking program, advertisements for the top-ranked products in the ranking are broadcast. (H8) After broadcasting a local content program, advertisements for local beauty salons are broadcast. (H9) After the weather forecast (program) is broadcast, advertisements are distributed according to the temperature change from the previous day (for example, if the temperature is relatively rising, an advertisement for beer is distributed, and if the temperature is relatively falling, an advertisement for hot drinks is distributed).

[0213] [More dynamic streaming scenes] (J1) Based on dynamic information (including real-time data from AI cameras and weather, past data, manual information, etc.), a combination of preset (tagged) program content and advertising content is delivered. (J2) Dynamically update and develop content according to viewability (such as by giving a series of content a story or changing the advertising ratio). (J3) When a customer visits a store, an AI camera recognizes the customer's attributes and determines the program to be delivered, and then determines the advertisement to be delivered based on temperature information obtained from an external source. (J4) Utilize not only dynamic information but also static information and manual information.

[0214] Various embodiments of the content distribution system and the like according to the present invention have been described above based on specific examples. However, embodiments of the present invention can also be embodied as a method or program for implementing a system or device, as well as a storage medium on which a program is recorded (for example, an optical disk, a magneto-optical disk, a CD-ROM, a CD-R, a CD-RW, a magnetic tape, a hard disk, or a memory card).

[0215] Furthermore, the implementation form of the program is not limited to application programs such as object code compiled by a compiler or program code executed by an interpreter, but may also be in the form of a program module incorporated into an operating system.

[0216] Furthermore, it is not necessary for all processing of the program to be performed solely by the CPU on the control board, but it can also be configured so that some or all of the program is performed by another processing unit (such as a DSP) implemented on an expansion board or expansion unit added to the board as needed.

[0217] All of the features described in this specification (including the claims, abstract, and drawings) and / or all steps of any disclosed method or process may be combined in any combination, except combinations in which these features are mutually exclusive.

[0218] Furthermore, each feature described in this specification (including the claims, abstract, and drawings) may be replaced by alternative features serving the same, equivalent, or similar purpose, unless expressly denied. Thus, unless expressly denied, each disclosed feature is only one example of a generic series of identical or equivalent features.

[0219] Furthermore, the present invention is not limited to the specific configuration of any of the above-described embodiments, but extends to any novel feature or combination thereof described in this specification (including the claims, abstract, and drawings), or any novel method or process step or combination thereof described. [Explanation of symbols]

[0220] 30 Content Delivery System 31 Information management server (headquarters server) 32 Content Management Server 330a~330c Store 331a~331c Store PC 332a~332c set-top boxes 333a~333c Display (digital signage) 33-34, 35a-35c Communication lines 39 Public lines (Internet, dedicated lines, company LAN, etc.)

Claims

1. A content distribution system that distributes roll content that combines content A and content B, a setting unit that can set the selection and / or ratio of the content A and the content B by individually referring to one or more pieces of auxiliary information and / or external information for each of the content A and the content B in the roll content; the setting means, when selecting the content A and the content B in the role content, selects the content A and the content B that have a common element in the auxiliary information and / or the external information stored in a database within the system, the attached information is a tag individually assigned to the content A and the content B, The tag contains the following information: (1) Distribution time (2) Attribute information of target customers (3) Gender, age, family structure, and family role (4) Occupation (5) Visitor attributes based on statistical data (6) Tag information related to the content of the distribution (7) When the roll content is distributed in a store, location information of the store (8) Installation information of fixtures to be installed in a store when the roll content is distributed in the store. At least one of The system, wherein the external information includes sales data acquired in conjunction with a POS register.

2. A content distribution system that distributes roll content that combines content A and content B, a setting unit that can set the selection and / or ratio of the content A and the content B by individually referring to one or more pieces of auxiliary information and / or external information for each of the content A and the content B in the roll content; the setting means, when setting the selection and / or ratio of the content A and the content B in the role content, presents the content A and / or the content B based on a result of optimizing at least one or more pieces of information among the external information that are accumulated and managed over time as parameters, the attached information is a tag individually assigned to the content A and the content B, The tag contains the following information: (1) Distribution time (2) Attribute information of target customers (3) Gender, age, family structure, and family role (4) Occupation (5) Visitor attributes based on statistical data (6) Tag information related to the content of the distribution (7) When the roll content is distributed in a store, location information of the store (8) Installation information of fixtures to be installed in a store when the roll content is distributed in the store. At least one of The system, wherein the external information includes sales data acquired in conjunction with a POS register.

3. A content distribution system that distributes roll content that combines content A and content B, a setting unit that can set the selection and / or ratio of the content A and the content B by individually referring to one or more pieces of auxiliary information and / or external information for each of the content A and the content B in the roll content; the setting means, when setting the selection and / or ratio of the content A and the content B in the role content, refers to the auxiliary information and / or the external information stored in a database within the system and presents or sets the content A and / or the content B that meets the setting conditions, the attached information is a tag individually assigned to the content A and the content B, The tag contains the following information: (1) Distribution time (2) Attribute information of target customers (3) Gender, age, family structure, and family role (4) Occupation (5) Visitor attributes based on statistical data (6) Tag information related to the content of the distribution (7) When the roll content is distributed in a store, location information of the store (8) Installation information of fixtures to be installed in a store when the roll content is distributed in the store. At least one of The system, wherein the external information includes sales data acquired in conjunction with a POS register.

4. A content distribution system that distributes roll content that combines content A and content B, a setting unit that can set the selection and / or ratio of the content A and the content B by individually referring to one or more pieces of auxiliary information and / or external information for each of the content A and the content B in the roll content; the setting means, when setting the selection and / or ratio of the content A and the content B in the role content, presents or sets the content A and / or the content B by reflecting the results of machine learning based on the auxiliary information and / or the external information accumulated in a database within the system, the attached information is a tag individually assigned to the content A and the content B, The tag contains the following information: (1) Distribution time (2) Attribute information of target customers (3) Gender, age, family structure, and family role (4) Occupation (5) Visitor attributes based on statistical data (6) Tag information related to the content of the distribution (7) When the roll content is distributed in a store, location information of the store (8) Installation information of fixtures to be installed in a store when the roll content is distributed in the store. At least one of The system, wherein the external information includes sales data acquired in conjunction with a POS register.

5. A content distribution system that distributes roll content that combines content A and content B, a setting unit that can set the selection and / or ratio of the content A and the content B by individually referring to one or more pieces of auxiliary information and / or external information for each of the content A and the content B in the roll content; The external information includes the following information: (1) Date, time, temperature, and humidity information (2) Weather forecast, news, and local government information (3) Attribute information of the subject or related information of the subject obtained from the AI ​​camera as possible (4) Audience ratings for the content A and / or the content B that can be obtained from an AI camera (5) When the roll content is distributed in a store, the sales of each product in the store (6) Keywords used on social media (7) Advertising ID and related information of the advertising ID acquired from the user terminal via a beacon and A system characterized by delivering content A and / or content B to the user terminal having the advertising ID when the external information is an advertising ID and related information of the advertising ID obtained from the user terminal via a beacon.

6. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the content A is non-advertising content and the content B is advertising content.

7. A system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the ratio is the playback time ratio of the content A and / or the content B within the roll content, or the appearance ratio of the content A and / or the content B within a specified time or period.

8. 6. The system according to claim 1, wherein, of the external information, information that changes over time is accumulated and managed over time.

9. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the auxiliary information is newly generated based on the external information.

10. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the external information is newly generated based on external information consisting of other specific information different from the specific information, for external information consisting of specific information.

11. A program executed on a content distribution system that distributes roll content that combines content A and content B, The system includes a setting means, and when the program is executed on the system, a step of causing the setting means to individually refer to one or more pieces of auxiliary information and / or external information for each of the content A and the content B in the roll content and set the selection and / or ratio of the content A and the content B; a step of causing the setting means to select the content A and the content B in the role content, the setting means selecting the content A and the content B that have a common element in the auxiliary information and / or the external information stored in a database within the system; The method is characterized by: the attached information is a tag individually assigned to the content A and the content B, The tag contains the following information: (1) Distribution time (2) Attribute information of target customers (3) Gender, age, family structure, and family role (4) Occupation (5) Visitor attributes based on statistical data (6) Tag information related to the content of the distribution (7) When the roll content is distributed in a store, location information of the store (8) Installation information of fixtures to be installed in a store when the roll content is distributed in the store. At least one of The program, wherein the external information includes sales data acquired in conjunction with a POS register.

12. A program executed on a content distribution system that distributes roll content that combines content A and content B, The system includes a setting means, and when the program is executed on the system, a step of causing the setting means to individually refer to one or more pieces of auxiliary information and / or external information for each of the content A and the content B in the roll content and set the selection and / or ratio of the content A and the content B; a step of causing the setting means to present the content A and / or the content B based on a result of optimizing at least one piece of information among the external information that is accumulated and managed over time as a parameter when setting the selection and / or ratio of the content A and the content B in the role content; The method is characterized by: the attached information is a tag individually assigned to the content A and the content B, The tag contains the following information: (1) Distribution time (2) Attribute information of target customers (3) Gender, age, family structure, and family role (4) Occupation (5) Visitor attributes based on statistical data (6) Tag information related to the content of the distribution (7) When the roll content is distributed in a store, location information of the store (8) Installation information of fixtures to be installed in a store when the roll content is distributed in the store. At least one of The program, wherein the external information includes sales data acquired in conjunction with a POS register.

13. A program executed on a content distribution system that distributes roll content that combines content A and content B, The system includes a setting means, and when the program is executed on the system, a step of causing the setting means to individually refer to one or more pieces of auxiliary information and / or external information for each of the content A and the content B in the roll content and set the selection and / or ratio of the content A and the content B; a step of causing the setting means to present or set the content A and / or the content B that meets the conditions for the setting by referring to the auxiliary information and / or the external information stored in a database within the system when setting the selection and / or ratio of the content A and the content B in the role content; The method is characterized by: the attached information is a tag individually assigned to the content A and the content B, The tag contains the following information: (1) Distribution time (2) Attribute information of target customers (3) Gender, age, family structure, and family role (4) Occupation (5) Visitor attributes based on statistical data (6) Tag information related to the content of the distribution (7) When the roll content is distributed in a store, location information of the store (8) Installation information of fixtures to be installed in a store when the roll content is distributed in the store. At least one of The program, wherein the external information includes sales data acquired in conjunction with a POS register.

14. A program executed on a content distribution system that distributes roll content that combines content A and content B, The system includes a setting means, and when the program is executed on the system, a step of causing the setting means to individually refer to one or more pieces of auxiliary information and / or external information for each of the content A and the content B in the roll content and set the selection and / or ratio of the content A and the content B; a step of having the setting means present or set the content A and / or the content B by reflecting the results of machine learning based on the auxiliary information and / or the external information stored in a database within the system when setting the selection and / or ratio of the content A and the content B in the role content; The method is characterized by: the attached information is a tag individually assigned to the content A and the content B, The tag contains the following information: (1) Distribution time (2) Attribute information of target customers (3) Gender, age, family structure, and family role (4) Occupation (5) Visitor attributes based on statistical data (6) Tag information related to the content of the distribution (7) When the roll content is distributed in a store, location information of the store (8) Installation information of fixtures to be installed in a store when the roll content is distributed in the store. At least one of The program, wherein the external information includes sales data acquired in conjunction with a POS register.

15. A program executed on a content distribution system that distributes roll content that combines content A and content B, The system includes a setting means, and when the program is executed on the system, The setting means executes a step of individually referring to one or more pieces of auxiliary information and / or external information for each of the content A and the content B in the roll content and setting the selection and / or ratio of the content A and the content B, The external information includes the following information: (1) Date, time, temperature, and humidity information (2) Weather forecast, news, and local government information (3) Attribute information of the subject or related information of the subject obtained from the AI ​​camera as possible (4) Audience ratings for the content A and / or the content B that can be obtained from an AI camera (5) When the roll content is distributed in a store, the sales of each product in the store (6) Keywords used on social media (7) Advertising ID and related information of the advertising ID acquired from the user terminal via a beacon and When the external information is an advertisement ID and information related to the advertisement ID acquired from a user terminal via a beacon, the content A and / or the content B is delivered to the user terminal having the advertisement ID. A program characterized by:

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