Information processing device, information processing method, and information processing program

The integration of sound source separation and rights management within a DAW, using a blockchain system, addresses inefficiencies in music production by automating copyright tracking and distribution processes, enhancing productivity and accuracy.

JP7798107B2Active Publication Date: 2026-01-14SONY GROUP CORP
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Patent Information

Application Number
JP2023545035
Authority / Receiving Office
JP · JP
Patent Type
Patents
Current Assignee / Owner
Priority Date
2021-09-06
Filing Date
2022-03-08
Publication Date
2026-01-14
Estimated Expiration
2042-03-08

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Conventional music production processes are cumbersome and inefficient due to the manual handling of extracted audio and copyright information, hindering smooth music production and management.

Method used

An information processing device and method that integrates sound source separation and rights management within a DAW, utilizing a blockchain-based system to automate the assignment and tracking of copyright information, enabling efficient music production and distribution.

Benefits of technology

Facilitates seamless music production by automating sound source separation and rights processing, reducing manual effort and errors, and ensuring accurate, efficient management of copyright royalties.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

Smart Images

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Patent Text Reader

Abstract

An information processing device (100) according to the present disclosure comprises an acquisition unit (131) that acquires right information assigned to first content in advance, and an assignment unit (134) that assigns right information relating to second content on the basis of the right information acquired by the acquisition unit when the second content is created by incorporating the first content.
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Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an information processing device, an information processing method, and an information processing program related to music production. [Background technology]

[0002] In recent years, with the spread of the Internet and music composition tools such as DAWs (Digital Audio Workstations), an increasing number of creators are doing everything from composing to distributing their work themselves. For example, in the fields of dance music and hip-hop music, a lot of derivative content is being produced, in which existing songs are sampled to create new songs.

[0003] Regarding music sampling, a technique is known in which an existing piece of music is analyzed using a model trained by a neural network, and sound sources are separated for each part of the musical instruments that make up the piece of music, such as vocals and drums (for example, Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] International Publication No. 2018 / 047643 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] The conventional technology is useful for music production in that it allows a creator to extract only the sound sources of the instruments required for a piece of music that he or she intends to use for sampling.

[0006] However, creators often have to go through a tedious process when handling extracted audio. For example, creators must import the extracted audio into a DAW, manage the copyright information for each extracted audio, and manually enter copyright information related to the music they create. These tasks can hinder smooth music production.

[0007] Therefore, the present disclosure proposes an information processing device, an information processing method, and an information processing program that enable efficient music production and management. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] In order to solve the above problem, one form of information processing device according to the present disclosure includes an acquisition unit that acquires rights information that has been previously granted to a first content, and an granting unit that, when a second content is produced using part of the first content, grants rights information related to the second content based on the rights information acquired by the acquisition unit. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram (1) showing an overview of an information processing system according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram (2) showing an overview of the information processing system according to the embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an overview of a sound source separation process according to an embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is a diagram (1) showing a user interface according to an embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a user interface according to the embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a user interface according to the embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a user interface according to the embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 5 is a diagram (5) showing a user interface according to the embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a user interface according to the embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a user interface according to the embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a user interface according to the embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a user interface according to the embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a user interface according to the embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of an information processing device according to an embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of a creator storage unit according to the embodiment. [Figure 16] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a sound source storage unit according to the embodiment. [Figure 17] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the concept of music data according to the embodiment; [Figure 18] 1 is a flowchart (1) showing the procedure of information processing according to the embodiment. [Figure 19] 10 is a flowchart (2) showing the procedure of information processing according to the embodiment. [Figure 20] FIG. 2 is a sequence diagram showing a procedure of the information processing system according to the embodiment. [Figure 21] FIG. 2 is a hardware configuration diagram illustrating an example of a computer that realizes the functions of the information processing device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In the following embodiments, the same components are designated by the same reference numerals, and redundant description will be omitted.

[0011] The present disclosure will be described in the following order: 1. Embodiment 1-1. Example of information processing system according to an embodiment 1-2. Example of sound source separation processing according to the embodiment 1-3. Example of granting rights information according to the embodiment 1-4. Configuration of information processing device according to embodiment 1-5. Information processing procedure according to the embodiment 1-6. Modifications of the embodiment 1-6-1. Operation as an information processing system 1-6-2. Rights Information 1-6-3. Production system 2. Other embodiments 3. Effects of the information processing device according to the present disclosure 4. Hardware Configuration

[0012] (1. Embodiment) (1-1. Example of Information Processing System According to an Embodiment) Fig. 1 is a diagram showing an overview of an information processing system 1 according to an embodiment. Fig. 1 is a schematic block diagram showing elements (devices, etc.) that make up the information processing system 1 and processes executed in the information processing system 1. The information processing system 1 executes various information processes related to a DAW (Digital Audio Workstation) that an information processing device 100 provides to a creator 20.

[0013] 1, the information processing system 1 includes a creator terminal 10, a distribution intermediary 30, a music publisher 35, a copyright manager 40, an information management system 50, an information processing device 100, and a user terminal 200. These various devices are connected to each other via a network N (e.g., the Internet) not shown in the figure so as to be able to communicate with each other via wired or wireless means.

[0014] The creator terminal 10 is a terminal device used by a creator 20 who creates music on a DAW provided by the information processing device 100. For example, the creator terminal 10 is a PC (Personal Computer), a smartphone, a tablet terminal, or the like. The creator 20 is not limited to the composer of the music, but may also include any person who holds rights to the music, such as a lyricist or an arranger. In addition, in the description of this disclosure, the term DAW is used to refer to a program used for music creation, but the technology of this disclosure is not necessarily limited to this. In this disclosure, DAW broadly refers to software and applications used for music creation, etc. on various devices including smartphones and PCs, and is a concept that also includes software not commonly referred to as DAW.

[0015] In the embodiments, the content to be produced is referred to as a "music." However, the content is not limited to music and may be video content such as a movie. Furthermore, the content may not only be complete content such as a song, but also a portion of a sound source used in a song or a short sound used for sampling. Note that, in the embodiments, a sound source is sound data that constitutes a song and includes various information. For example, a sound source includes data such as the timbre, pitch, and speed (tempo) of the sound, and is recorded on a recording medium in various file formats that enable information processing. In a DAW, a sound source is generally represented in the form of a waveform. Musical material distributed on music distribution sites, video distribution sites, etc., is also a form of sound source. Furthermore, a sound source can be separated using existing technologies, such as those described in prior art. For example, a sound source containing multiple instruments can be separated into sound sources for each individual instrument.

[0016] The distribution intermediary 30 refers to a party (generally called a distributor) that mediates the distribution of music created on a DAW, as well as the server or terminal device used by that party. For example, the distribution intermediary could be a company that operates a music sales site or a video distribution site, or a company that supplies content to those sites.

[0017] The music publisher 35 represents a business entity that manages copyrights of the music created by the creator 20 and conducts promotion, etc., as well as a server or terminal device used by that entity.

[0018] The copyright administrator 40 refers to the organization in the country that manages copyrights registered by the music publisher 35, as well as the server or terminal device used by that organization. The copyright administrator 40 performs processes such as calculating copyright royalties when a song is used, collecting copyright royalties, and distributing the royalties to the music publisher 35.

[0019] The information management system 50 is a system that records various information related to music. For example, the information management system 50 is a distributed ledger system called a blockchain, in which data is shared by multiple nodes. For example, the information management system 50 is a consortium-type blockchain in which the information processing device 100, distribution intermediary 30, music publisher 35, and copyright manager 40 are each nodes. Each of the parties (generally referred to as "entities") that make up the information processing system 1 enjoys a messaging service that allows them to exchange messages and the like via a network.

[0020] The information processing device 100 is a device that executes information processing according to the present disclosure, and is, for example, a cloud server connected to the creator terminal 10 via the Internet. The information processing device 100 provides the creator 20 with a DAW that runs on the creator terminal 10. The information processing device 100 may also function as a so-called music label that manages music created by the creator 20.

[0021] The user terminal 200 is a terminal device used by the user 210, such as a PC, a smartphone, a tablet terminal, etc. In accordance with the operation of the user 210, the user terminal 200 accesses a music distribution site, a video distribution site, etc. where music is provided via the distribution intermediary 30, acquires the music from the site, and plays the acquired music.

[0022] 1, each element constituting the information processing system 1 conceptually represents a function in the information processing system 1, and may take various forms depending on the embodiment. For example, each element constituting the information processing system 1 may be one or more terminal devices. Furthermore, each element constituting the information processing system 1 may be a terminal device that is operated manually, or may be a program that runs on a terminal device.

[0023] In the example shown in FIG. 1 , the creator 20 runs a DAW provided by the information processing device 100 on the creator terminal 10 to create a piece of music. Conventionally, distributing the music created by the creator 20 required various cumbersome processes. For example, when creating a piece of music, the creator 20 accesses a material provider site that provides music materials and purchases the materials to use in the music. Alternatively, the creator 20 processes existing music by extracting portions of existing music or filtering the music by frequency to create the material. Such materials contain copyright information, and the creator 20 must submit a request to the material provider site or rights holder to disclose the time and portions used in the music. Furthermore, when the creator 20 extracts a portion of the material using a specified filter, the creator 20 must convert the material into a format that can be used in the DAW and confirm whether the extracted sound source can be used in the music under the terms of the license. Furthermore, if the creator 20 wants to change the speed (tempo) or pitch (key) of the material, the creator 20 must take the trouble of downloading the material from a material providing site or the like to the creator terminal 10 and editing it using a DAW.

[0024] Furthermore, if creator 20 wishes to distribute a song after creating it, he or she must apply for all of the materials used in the song for rights processing. At this time, creator 20 must record the parts of the song where the materials were used, the duration of use, and the rights holder information for each material. Because this work must be done manually by creator 20, it is time-consuming and prone to recording errors. In other words, conventional music production has many challenges in efficiently producing and managing music.

[0025] Therefore, the information processing system 1 and information processing device 100 according to the present disclosure solve the above problem by the information processing described below. Specifically, the information processing device 100 provides the creator 20 with a DAW that integrates functions such as the process of separating sound sources from materials and the rights processing of created music. This allows the creator 20 to efficiently create music and also to collectively handle the rights processing required for distribution and the distribution procedures for copyright royalties when their music is used. Furthermore, the DAW and database provided by the information processing device 100 allow other creators who provide existing music to appropriately collect copyright royalties according to the use of their music or materials.

[0026] The flow of information processing by the information processing system 1 will be described below with reference to FIG. 1. First, the creator 20 creates a piece of music on the creator terminal 10 using a DAW, which is a cloud application provided by the information processing device 100. During the music production process, the information processing device 100 executes sound source separation processing according to the present disclosure on the creator terminal 10 via the DAW. The information processing device 100 also assigns copyright information and the like to the music based on materials and the like used by the creator 20. These processes on the DAW will be described in detail with reference to FIG. 3 and subsequent figures.

[0027] Thereafter, the creator 20 registers the created music piece and the rights information relating to the music piece in the information processing device 100 (step S1). The information processing device 100 registers various information such as the music piece, the rights information relating to the music piece, and contract information with the creator 20 in the information management system 50 (step S2).

[0028] If the creator 20 uses existing music or materials distributed on a material distribution site in his or her production, permission from the rights holder of the original music (material) is required for such use. In this case, the information processing device 100 accesses the information management system 50 and acquires rights information registered by the rights holder of the original music. The information processing device 100 then references the rights information and presents the creator 20 with the conditions for using the existing music or materials (such as copyright royalties and permitted usage time). As described below, since the rights information is pre-recorded in the information processing device 100 or the information management system 50, the creator 20 can use the materials by requesting their use on the DAW. If the music created by the creator 20 has rights held by multiple parties, the information processing device 100 acquires rights information from all rights holders. For example, the information processing device 100 can contact the rights holders via messaging or other means on the DAW, execute contractual agreements for use in the music, and acquire rights information from multiple parties. This is because the metadata of the music created by the creator 20 includes identification information registered for each material and identification information of the copyright holder, and the information processing device 100 can identify the copyright holder.

[0029] The information management system 50 manages music information using a blockchain. The information management system 50 writes various procedures and information related to rights, such as conditions for third parties to use the music, usage agreements, and calculations of distributions, into a program (called a smart contract) executed on the blockchain. In other words, creators 20 can register the music they have created on an immutable blockchain, thereby reliably proving that the music is their own copyrighted work.

[0030] Furthermore, upon accepting the registration of a song, the information processing device 100 transmits information about the song to the distribution intermediary 30 (step S3). In other words, the information processing device 100, as a music label, entrusts the distribution intermediary 30 with the sound source and distribution processing of the song. The distribution intermediary 30 accesses the information management system 50 and obtains rights information to be considered when distributing the song (step S4). The distribution intermediary 30 also writes into the information management system 50 conditions such as distribution fees when the song is played on a music distribution site, etc. Thereafter, the distribution intermediary 30 provides the song to the user 210 via a music distribution site, a video distribution site, etc. (step S5).

[0031] The information processing device 100 may present the distribution conditions set by the distribution intermediary 30 to the creator 20 at the timing of step S4. For example, the information processing device 100 may present the creator 20 with the distribution fee per song on a specified site, the distribution fee or revenue per play, and the creator's share of the copyright royalties on the DAW. After confirming this information, the creator 20 may decide whether to entrust the distribution to the distribution intermediary 30. If the distribution intermediary 30 or the information processing device 100 decides to entrust the distribution, it writes this information to the information management system 50. By writing this contract information on the blockchain, the creator 20 can prevent the contract contents from being tampered with without permission. Furthermore, the creator 20 can simultaneously check the distribution conditions on the DAW where the song is registered and the distribution application is made. The information processing device 100 can support the creator 20's creative activities by providing the creator 20 with a DAW that can manage the entire process from song creation to distribution.

[0032] When the information processing device 100 accepts the registration of a song, it transmits copyright information related to the song to the music publisher 35 (step S6). In other words, the information processing device 100 transfers the copyright related to the song to the music publisher 35. The music publisher 35 then writes information related to the transferred copyright to the information management system 50 (step S7). For example, the music publisher 35 writes information such as the name of the copyright holder for the song and the share of any distributions received from the copyright administrator 40 to the information management system 50. The music publisher 35 also submits an application for copyright information to the copyright administrator 40, a designated organization that manages copyrights, in accordance with the laws and regulations of each country (step S8). Typically, when the music publisher 35 or the like submits copyright information to the copyright administrator 40, the information must be written by hand on procedural documents, which requires personnel costs, takes time to complete the application, and may result in omissions. On the other hand, the information processing according to the embodiment uses copyright information that has been automatically assigned to the music by the DAW in advance, thereby reducing the effort required for these processes and preventing incorrect information from being registered.

[0033] The copyright administrator 40 writes the copyright information obtained from the music publisher 35 into the information management system 50 (step S9). For example, the copyright administrator 40 writes the circumstances and conditions under which the music can be used, the amount of copyright to be paid to the copyright administrator 40 when the music is listened to or publicly transmitted, and so on. In this way, each member of the information processing system 1 manages and updates information on the blockchain, thereby building unalterable and traceable information about the music. The copyright administrator 40 also provides the user 210 with information such as the conditions under which the user 210 may use the music via a predetermined site or the like (step S10). In other words, the copyright administrator 40 grants permission to use the music to the music distribution site or the like accessed by the user 210.

[0034] After these processes, the user 210 can listen to the music created by the creator 20.

[0035] Next, a flow of processing of usage fees when a song created by a creator 20 is used will be described with reference to Fig. 2. Fig. 2 is a diagram (2) showing an overview of an information processing system 1 according to an embodiment.

[0036] 2, when user 210 uses a song, information indicating that the song has been used is transmitted from user terminal 200 to a song distribution site or the like. The song distribution site or the like reports the use of the song and pays copyright royalties to copyright manager 40 (step S20). Copyright manager 40 registers the usage report received from the song distribution site or the like and information related to the collected copyright royalties in information management system 50 (step S21).

[0037] Furthermore, the music distribution site etc. will provide the distribution intermediary 30 with a distribution report including the number of times and duration of distribution of the music, and will also pay the master recording usage fee (step S22). The distribution intermediary 30 will register the distribution report received from the music distribution site etc. and information relating to the collected master recording usage fee in the information management system 50 (step S23).

[0038] The information management system 50 redistributes the collected copyright royalties to the music publisher 35 based on the copyright information set for the song (step S24). The information management system 50 also reports to the music publisher 35 how the song has been used. This process may be performed by an administrator of the information management system 50 (for example, an administrator of the information processing device 100), or may be performed according to a program written in advance as a smart contract. For example, the information processing device 100 may write in a smart contract that it will perform a redistribution process for the music publisher 35 on a preset date when a copyright royalties or usage report is received, so that the above process is executed automatically.

[0039] The information management system 50 also reports to the information processing device 100 the copyright royalties and master royalties paid for the song, distribution information, etc. (step S25). The information management system 50 also pays master royalties related to the distributed master royalties to the creator 20 (step S26). The information management system 50 also pays copyright royalties related to the distributed copyright royalties to the creator 20 (step S27). These processes executed by the information management system 50 may be automatically executed based on a smart contract, as with step S24. Note that the master royalties and copyright royalties may be granted to the creator 20 or other copyright holders (such as copyright holders of materials used in the song) in the form of tokens that can be transmitted on a blockchain.

[0040] As described above, the information processing system 1 allows copyright information such as copyrights to be assigned to songs using the DAW functions provided by the information processing device 100. Furthermore, the information processing system 1 centrally manages rights related to songs using a blockchain such as the information management system 50, thereby enabling smooth registration of rights and distribution of usage fees.

[0041] The outline of the processing related to the information processing system 1 has been explained above using Figures 1 and 2. Next, the information processing related to the DAW provided by the information processing device 100 will be explained in detail using Figure 3 and subsequent figures.

[0042] (1-2. Example of sound source separation processing according to the embodiment) As described above, the DAW provided by the information processing device 100 has various functions that can be used when the creator 20 creates music. Sound source separation, which is an example of the functions, will be described below.

[0043] 3 is a diagram showing an overview of the sound source separation process according to the embodiment, in which a schematic block diagram shows the flow of processing when the information processing device 100 performs sound source separation.

[0044] When the creator 20 requests that sound source separation be performed on the DAW, the creator terminal 10 accesses the creator sound source storage unit 60 included in the information processing device 100 (step S31). The creator sound source storage unit 60 stores music data that the creator 20 is currently creating, sound sources that the creator 20 has created in the past, sound sources and materials that the creator 20 has purchased in the past, and the like.

[0045] The creator 20 selects a sound source for which sound source separation is to be performed from among the sound sources stored in the creator sound source storage unit 60. The information processing device 100 sends the selected sound source to the sound source separation system 70 (step S32).

[0046] The sound source separation system 70 has a function of separating a predetermined sound from an original sound source to be separated, in accordance with a request from the creator 20. For example, the sound source separation system 70 is a plug-in that functions on a DAW. The information processing device 100 performs sound source separation in the sound source separation system 70 in accordance with the request from the creator 20. For example, when the creator 20 requests that a guitar sound be separated from the sound source, the information processing device 100 generates a guitar sound source separated from the sound source. Then, the information processing device 100 sends the generated guitar sound source to the creator sound source storage unit 60 (step S33).

[0047] Here, the information processing device 100 sends the generated guitar sound source to the similar sound source search system 75 to search whether a sound source similar to the generated guitar sound source exists in a music distribution store or material sales store (hereinafter collectively referred to as "store") linked to the DAW (step S34).

[0048] The similar sound source search system 75 has a function of searching for a sound source similar to a target sound source by determining whether the target sound source is similar to any other sound source. For example, the similar sound source search system 75 is a plug-in that functions on a DAW. When searching, the similar sound source search system 75 acquires a sound source from the stored sound source storage unit 65 that stores sound sources held by the store (step S35). In the example of FIG. 3, the information processing device 100 uses the function of the similar sound source search system 75 to search for a sound source similar to the guitar sound source generated by the sound source separation system 70 in the stored sound source storage unit 65. Then, if a similar sound source is found, the information processing device 100 sends the search result to the creator terminal 10 (step S26). The creator 20 can arbitrarily select a sound source that they have separated themselves or a sound source found by the information processing device 100 and use it in creating a song.

[0049] In step S32, the creator 20 may search not only the sound sources stored in the creator sound source storage unit 60 but also the store to acquire the sound source for which sound source separation is to be performed. For example, the creator 20 can search for existing music pieces or materials by specifying the genre, tempo, BPM, key, etc. of the material in a search system on the DAW. In this case, the information processing device 100 may provide, in the DAW, a function for the creator 20 to preview the searched sound source, a function for changing the tempo or key of the sound source, etc. Furthermore, when the creator 20 acquires the sound source for which sound source separation is to be performed, the information processing device 100 may query the information management system 50 to inquire whether the music to be downloaded is truly registered, etc.

[0050] The processing flow for sound source separation has been described above using Fig. 3. Next, an example of a user interface when sound source separation is performed on a DAW will be described using Fig. 4 and subsequent figures.

[0051] 4 is a diagram (1) showing a user interface according to an embodiment, which shows a screen 300 on a DAW and various pieces of information included on the screen 300.

[0052] 4, screen 300 includes track display 301 indicating each track in music production, and waveform 302 indicating the sound source included in the track. Screen 300 also includes filter information 303 used to edit the sound source, pan information 304 indicating the positioning of each track, equalizer information 305 for adjusting the frequency of the sound source and music, etc. Note that screen 300 shows an example of a general screen of a DAW used for music production, for the purpose of explaining the embodiment, and the functions and information included in the DAW according to the embodiment are not limited to this.

[0053] Next, another example of displaying functions included in the DAW will be described with reference to Fig. 5. Fig. 5 is a diagram (2) showing a user interface according to an embodiment. Fig. 5 shows a screen 310 on the DAW and various pieces of information included on the screen 310.

[0054] As shown in FIG. 5, screen 310 includes filter information 311, which shows filter information 303 in a different display example, panning information 312, which shows panning information 304 in a different display example, and equalizer information 313, which shows equalizer information 305 in a different display example.

[0055] Next, a display example when the DAW performs sound source separation will be described with reference to Fig. 6. Fig. 6 is a diagram (3) showing a user interface according to the embodiment. Fig. 6 shows a screen 320 on the DAW and various information included on the screen 320.

[0056] When performing sound source separation, the creator 20 displays a window 321 on the DAW for displaying a list of sound sources included in the track being produced. The window 321 displays a list of sound sources included in each track. For example, the list display includes sound source information such as the name of the sound source, the playback time of the sound source, tempo (indicated in BPM (Beats Per Minute) or the like), the date and time when the track was added, and the sampling frequency, as well as tag information 322 automatically assigned by analysis of the sound source. Note that the window 321 may include not only the sound sources included in the track but also stored sound sources searched for by the creator 20.

[0057] The creator 20 selects the desired sound source and issues a command for sound source separation on the DAW by clicking a button 323. If the creator 20 wants to check the sound source or acquire a stored sound source, the creator 20 clicks a button 324 to download the sound source to the creator terminal 10, which is a local terminal.

[0058] When the button 323 is clicked in Fig. 6, the screen 320 transitions to a screen 330 shown in Fig. 7. Fig. 7 is a diagram (4) showing a user interface according to the embodiment. Fig. 7 shows the screen 330 on the DAW and various pieces of information included on the screen 330.

[0059] In the example shown in Fig. 7, it is assumed that the creator 20 has selected sound source 332 as the sound source for which sound source separation is to be performed. Furthermore, the creator 20 may select a portion of sound source 332 for which sound source separation is to actually be performed. In the example shown in Fig. 7, it is assumed that the creator 20 has selected waveform 333 as the portion for which sound source separation is to be performed.

[0060] Next, the creator 20 selects an instrument from item 334 to select the instrument from which the sound source is to be separated. For example, if the creator 20 desires to separate the bass, guitar, and drum sounds from the sound source included in waveform 333, he or she selects the corresponding button.

[0061] Here, the information processing device 100 presents the creator 20 with information necessary for performing sound source separation. The information necessary for performing sound source separation includes, for example, copyright royalties paid by the creator 20 to the copyright holder of the sound source, a usage fee preset for the material, etc. In the example of FIG. 7, the information necessary for performing sound source separation is represented by predetermined points linked to a store. For example, the information processing device 100 calculates the points necessary for processing based on the time of the waveform 333 and the number of instruments for which sound source separation is to be performed. Then, the information processing device 100 displays billing information 335 indicating the calculated points on the screen 330.

[0062] After checking the waveform 333 to be used for sound source separation, the items 334, and the billing information 335, the creator 20 clicks a button 336 if he or she wishes to perform sound source separation. This causes the information processing device 100 to perform sound source separation. If the creator 20 wants to check the contents of the sound source 332 and the waveform 333 before performing sound source separation, he or she can operate an operation panel 337 to play the sound source 332 and the waveform 333, for example.

[0063] When the button 336 is clicked in Fig. 7, the screen 330 transitions to a screen 340 shown in Fig. 8. Fig. 8 is a diagram (5) showing a user interface according to the embodiment. Fig. 8 shows the screen 340 on the DAW and various pieces of information included in the screen 340.

[0064] The screen 340 has a window 341. The window 341 displays a sound source 342 for which sound source separation is to be performed and a waveform 343 which is the portion where sound source separation is actually performed.

[0065] When the creator 20 requests sound source separation of the waveform 343, the information processing device 100 performs sound source separation. Specifically, the information processing device 100 inputs the waveform 343 into a sound source separation model that has previously learned the characteristics of each sound source that constitutes a piece of music, and generates a sound source separated from the waveform 343 in a format that can be used on a DAW. An example of the characteristics of each sound source that constitutes a piece of music is the timbre that characterizes each instrument, such as vocals, guitar, or bass. In other words, the information processing device 100 performs sound source separation using a model that has learned the characteristics of each instrument through machine learning, and that, when a certain sound source is input, outputs a new sound source from the input sound source that has only the characteristics of the individual instrument.

[0066] When sound source separation is performed on waveform 343, waveforms 344, 345, and 346 are displayed alongside waveform 343 on the DAW. For example, waveform 344 is a sound source obtained by extracting a bass sound from the sound source indicated by waveform 343. Waveform 345 is a sound source obtained by extracting a guitar sound from the sound source indicated by waveform 343. Waveform 346 is a sound source obtained by extracting a drum sound from the sound source indicated by waveform 343. In this way, the information processing device 100 generates sound sources separated for each instrument from the sound source desired by the creator 20 in a format that can be immediately used on the DAW. This allows the creator 20 to quickly and accurately obtain sound materials that he or she wants to use in creating his or her own music.

[0067] Furthermore, after performing sound source separation, the information processing device 100 searches for sound sources similar to the separated sound sources in the stored sound source storage unit 65. For example, the information processing device 100 uses a known similarity analysis function that determines the similarity between each song and sound source to determine the similarity between the separated sound sources and the sound sources (materials) stored in the stored sound source storage unit 65, and extracts sound sources with a relatively high similarity.

[0068] The information processing device 100 displays the search results in a window 347. The window 347 shows an example of the results when the creator 20 clicks the select button 348 and requests a search for materials by specifying a drum instrument. That is, the sound sources displayed in the search results shown in the window 347 are sound sources similar to the waveform 346, which is the separated drum sound source, and are sound sources stored in the stored sound source storage unit 65. When creating a piece of music, the creator 20 may use the sound source of the waveform 346, or may listen to the searched similar sound sources and acquire or purchase a sound source that he or she likes and use it.

[0069] The processing flow related to sound source separation has been described above using Figures 3 to 8. Note that the separated sound source is not necessarily a sound source for which the creator 20 is the copyright holder. Also, the creator 20 may create music using a similar sound source purchased from a store, rather than the sound source separated from the sound source. Therefore, the information processing device 100 provides a sound source separation function and a copyright management function in the DAW.

[0070] (1-3. Example of granting rights information according to the embodiment) As described above, the DAW provided by the information processing device 100 has a function for managing copyright information when the creator 20 creates music. In Fig. 9 and subsequent figures, the assignment of copyright information, which is an example of a function of the DAW, will be described.

[0071] 9 is a diagram (6) showing a user interface according to the embodiment. The example in FIG. 9 shows a screen 350 in which the creator 20 is in the middle of creating a piece of music on a DAW, and various pieces of information included on the screen 350.

[0072] 9, the left half of the screen 350 displays, in waveform form, each track of the music that the creator 20 is going to create, and the sound sources contained in the tracks. These waveforms include sound sources that the creator 20 has recorded or inputted himself, as well as parts of existing music and materials purchased from a store.

[0073] When the creator 20 adds a sound source to a track to use it in music production, the information processing device 100 acquires rights information for the sound source. For example, the information processing device 100 acquires copyright information attached to the sound source as the rights information. The information processing device 100 also acquires information regarding the license for using the sound source as the rights information. Specifically, the information processing device 100 acquires information such as whether or not the sound source is permitted to be used in another music production, the permitted usage time and location if used in another music production, and fees to be paid to the original copyright holder if used.

[0074] The information processing device 100 displays the acquired rights information in a window 351. As shown in Fig. 9, the window 351 includes information such as the name of the music used as the sound source, the copyright rate of the music (for example, a rate set by the rights holder depending on the type of use), the initial fee (the amount paid to the original copyright holder when using an existing music), the used portion (the portion in the music where the existing music is used), and the total time (the total time where the existing music is used in the music).

[0075] The creator 20 can refer to the information displayed in the window 351 and select which sound source to actually use in the song. The creator 20 can also see at a glance what kind of rights information is set for which sound source. This point will be explained using Fig. 10. Fig. 10 is a diagram (7) showing a user interface according to this embodiment.

[0076] 10 shows a state in which the creator 20 has selected a waveform 352 on a screen 350. At this time, the information processing device 100 may highlight the waveform 352 so that it stands out more than other waveforms. The information processing device 100 may also highlight the rights information 353 corresponding to the waveform 352 in the window 351 so that it stands out more. This allows the creator 20 to check the cost of using the waveform 352 in a song, the total time the waveform 352 will be used in the song, and so on. Note that, for example, if the creator 20 performs an operation in a subsequent process that allows the waveform 352 to be used for a longer period of time, the information processing device 100 may calculate the usage fee in real time and update the information displayed in the rights information 353.

[0077] In this way, when the creator 20 creates a piece of music that includes downloaded sound sources, the information processing device 100 executes a management function for sound source rights information in the background without impairing the operability of a normal DAW. This management function manages the music production, for example, by updating the original sound source information itself used to sample the music, as well as the range and location used in the music, the total usage time, etc. Therefore, even when using someone else's sound source for sampling, the creator 20 does not need to make notes on how long it was used, in what manner, etc., and can manage the sampled sound source without any particular consideration.

[0078] Next, a process for registering rights information for a song when the creator 20 has completed creating the song will be described. Fig. 11 is a diagram (8) showing a user interface according to the embodiment. The example in Fig. 11 shows a screen 360 in the middle of the creator 20 registering rights information for the song on the DAW, and various pieces of information included on the screen 360.

[0079] 11, when the creator 20 attempts to register rights information to a song, the information processing device 100 displays a window 361. The window 361 is a display unit for setting the rights information that the creator 20 attempts to register.

[0080] For example, the creator 20 inputs the name of a song in item 362. The creator 20 can also select whether or not the song can be transferred or entrusted to a predetermined field of use by checking a checkbox shown in item 363. For example, in the example of Fig. 11, the creator 20 can select whether the song can be transferred to a publisher, a distribution site, etc., an advertising agency, a karaoke company, or a game company.

[0081] In addition, creator 20 can select whether or not to permit secondary use of a song after it has been released (e.g., registered in a store) by checking the checkbox shown in item 364. Secondary use of a song means, for example, a third party using part of the song to create a new song.

[0082] The creator 20 can also set more detailed information regarding secondary use. For example, the creator 20 can arbitrarily set the usage time and copyright rate displayed in item 365. In the example of Fig. 11, the creator 20 has set that if the usage time in the case of secondary use is 10 seconds or less, the copyright rate will be 10% and the initial fee will be 1,000 yen.

[0083] When the creator 20 has finished setting the rights information, the creator 20 clicks a button 366. This allows the creator 20 to register the song together with the rights information. For example, the information processing device 100 registers the song in a store linked to a DAW.

[0084] When a new song is registered, the information processing device 100 may send a message to the copyright holder of the original sound source requesting a usage contract. After confirming the mode of use, the copyright holder transmits a usage contract approval to the information processing device 100. This process may be performed using a smart contract on the blockchain. In this case, if the copyright holder writes in advance into the smart contract that "usage is permitted as long as the terms of use are met," the creator 20 can automatically complete the licensing of the sound source and the new song registration with almost no waiting time.

[0085] Next, a modified example of setting rights information will be described with reference to Fig. 12. Fig. 12 is a diagram (9) showing a user interface according to the embodiment. Fig. 12 shows an example in which a music waveform 367 is displayed in the window 361 shown in Fig. 11.

[0086] The music waveform 367 shows the entire music piece created by the creator 20 in waveform. For example, when allowing secondary use of a music piece, the creator 20 can set permission settings and fees depending on the part of the music piece, such as allowing the intro but not the verse, and allowing the chorus. Specifically, the creator 20 references the music waveform 367 and sets the parts of the music piece that he or she will allow for secondary use and the fees involved. In the example of FIG. 11 , the creator 20 has set the copyright rate for the intro to 10% when it is used secondary, but not the verse. The creator 20 can also arbitrarily set the copyright rate for the intro to a low 10% and the copyright rate for the chorus to a high 30%. After completing the copyright information setting, the creator 20 clicks button 366, as in the example of FIG. 11 .

[0087] When button 366 is clicked in the examples of FIGS. 11 and 12, the information processing device 100 registers the song, references the rights information contained in the song, and executes various processes based on the referenced information. For example, the information processing device 100 sends information indicating how the existing song was used to the original copyright holder of the existing song used in the song. The information processing device 100 also grants rights information related to the song based on information set by creator 20 and the copyright information of the existing song. By writing the granted rights information to a blockchain such as the information management system 50 shown in FIG. 1, the information processing device 100 makes the rights information accessible to all parties and prevents tampering.

[0088] Next, the recommendation function in music production will be described with reference to Fig. 13. Fig. 13 is a diagram (10) showing a user interface according to an embodiment. The example of Fig. 13 shows a screen 370 in the middle of creator 20 creating music on a DAW, and various information included on the screen 370.

[0089] 9 and other figures, the creator 20 can check information about the sound source that he or she intends to use while creating music using a DAW. Here, the information processing device 100 may crawl the stored sound source storage unit 65 or a website based on the sound source that the creator 20 intends to use, and display recommended sound sources in a window 371.

[0090] For example, the information processing device 100 searches for sound sources similar to the song 001 that the creator 20 is trying to use. Then, the information processing device 100 extracts a sound source to be recommended to the creator 20 from the searched sound sources according to a predetermined criterion. For example, the information processing device 100 presents to the creator 20 a similar sound source with a lower usage fee. Alternatively, the information processing device 100 presents to the creator 20, among the similar sound sources, a sound source that is frequently used by other users, i.e., a popular sound source. Alternatively, the information processing device 100 presents to the creator 20, among the similar sound sources, a sound source that has the most similar beat to the song 001 (for example, the BPM or drum rhythm is the same). As shown in the list 372, the information processing device 100 displays, as information about the recommended sound source, the reason for the recommendation, the name of the song (sound source), the copyright rate and initial cost for use, etc. This allows the creator 20 to proactively use unknown sound sources, thereby broadening the scope of music production. Also, by selecting sound sources with low royalties, the creator 20 can produce music while keeping copyright royalties low.

[0091] The flow of processing related to the assignment of rights information has been described above using Figures 9 to 13. By realizing functions such as sound source separation and rights information assignment on a DAW, the information processing device 100 can simplify the complicated procedures that the creator 20 has traditionally had to go through, such as collecting sound materials and handling rights.

[0092] (1-4. Configuration of information processing device according to embodiment) Next, a description will be given of the configuration of the information processing device 100 according to the embodiment. Fig. 14 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of the information processing device 100 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0093] 14, the information processing device 100 includes a communication unit 110, a storage unit 120, and a control unit 130. The information processing device 100 may also include an input unit (e.g., a keyboard, a mouse, etc.) that accepts various operations from an administrator who manages the information processing device 100, and a display unit (e.g., a liquid crystal display, etc.) that displays various information.

[0094] The communication unit 110 is realized by, for example, a network interface controller, a network interface card (NIC), etc. The communication unit 110 is connected to a network N (such as the Internet) by wire or wirelessly, and transmits and receives information to and from external devices such as the creator terminal 10, and in a blockchain such as the information management system 50, via the network N.

[0095] The storage unit 120 is realized by, for example, a semiconductor memory element such as a RAM (Random Access Memory) or a flash memory, or a storage device such as a hard disk or an optical disk. The storage unit 120 has a creator storage unit 121 and a sound source storage unit 122. Each storage unit will be described below in order.

[0096] Fig. 15 is a diagram showing an example of a creator storage unit 121 according to an embodiment. As shown in Fig. 15, the creator storage unit 121 has items such as "creator ID," "registration information," "points," "audio source information," and "rights information." Note that in Figs. 15 and 16, information stored in the storage unit 120 is conceptually shown as "A01," but in reality, each piece of information described below is stored in the storage unit 120. The creator storage unit 121 corresponds to, for example, the creator audio source storage unit 60 shown in Fig. 3.

[0097] The "creator ID" is identification information for identifying the creator. The "registration information" is the creator's account name and information used when using the DAW.

[0098] "Points" is information about points required when a creator uses a service (for example, sound source separation in a DAW) provided by the information processing device 100. Note that, although the embodiment shows an example in which the creator consumes points as payment for the service, the payment may be currency, a token issued on a blockchain, or the like.

[0099] "Audio source information" is information about audio sources owned by a creator. For example, audio source information includes audio recorded by a creator on a DAW, existing music or sound materials purchased by a creator from a website, and music created by a creator on a DAW.

[0100] "Rights information" is information about rights registered by creators. For example, rights information is registered for each song, and includes various information such as the song name, the copyright holder of the song, the license for using the song, and the terms of use (such as usage fees depending on the duration and location of use).

[0101] Next, the sound source storage unit 122 will be described. Fig. 16 is a diagram showing an example of the sound source storage unit 122 according to the embodiment. As shown in Fig. 16, the sound source storage unit 122 has items such as "music ID," "rights information," "usage permission," and "usage information." The sound source storage unit 122 corresponds to, for example, the stored sound source storage unit 65 shown in Fig. 3.

[0102] The "music ID" is identification information that identifies a song stored in the sound source storage unit 122. The songs stored in the sound source storage unit 122 are, for example, songs that are distributed or sold from a store linked to a DAW.

[0103] "Rights information" is information related to the rights registered for a song. For example, rights information is registered for each song and is stored as metadata separate from the song data (e.g., music data such as a WAV file). For example, rights information includes information identifying the copyright holder of the song, the music distribution intermediary, the music publisher that manages the rights to the song, etc.

[0104] "Usage permission" is information regarding permission for secondary use of a song. For example, usage permission is registered for each song and includes various information such as the license for using the song and usage conditions (such as usage fees depending on usage time and location).

[0105] "Usage information" is historical information about the use of a song. For example, usage information may include the number of times and duration a song has been listened to by a user, the number of times a song has been downloaded, the number of times a song has been used in a new song and the duration of that use in the new song, and the number of times and duration a new song has been listened to and downloaded. Usage information may also include information such as copyright royalties paid for the secondary use of a song.

[0106] Here, information included in the music data according to the embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 17. Fig. 17 is a diagram showing the concept of the music data according to the embodiment.

[0107] As shown in FIG. 17 , music data 125, an example of a music data format according to the embodiment, includes music data 126 and metadata 127. The music data 126 is digital data (binary data) obtained by sampling music, such as a WAV file. The metadata 127 includes various information related to the music. For example, the metadata 127 includes the rights information, permission information, and usage information shown in FIGS. 15 and 16 . That is, the metadata 127 includes information such as the name of the music, author information, and information on new music created through secondary use. Information identifying each new music created through secondary use is registered as metadata. This allows the information processing device 100, when referencing certain music data, to identify new music created through secondary use of the music, as well as information such as the duration and location of use in the newly created music. The music data 125 shown in FIG. 17 is stored in the creator storage unit 121, the sound source storage unit 122, etc.

[0108] 15 and 16, the information processing device 100 stores information about each creator and information about the sound source. The information processing device 100 also registers the information shown in FIGS. 15 and 16 in the information management system 50 (blockchain). That is, the information shown in FIGS. 15 and 16 can be referenced and updated not only by the information processing device 100 but also by the distribution intermediary 30, music publisher 35, copyright manager 40, etc., using a distributed ledger system based on blockchain.

[0109] 14, the explanation will be continued. The control unit 130 is realized by, for example, a central processing unit (CPU), a micro processing unit (MPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), or the like executing a program stored inside the information processing device 100 (for example, an information processing program according to the present disclosure) using a random access memory (RAM) or the like as a working area. The control unit 130 is a controller, and may be realized by, for example, an integrated circuit such as an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC) or a field programmable gate array (FPGA).

[0110] 14, control unit 130 has an acquisition unit 131, a generation unit 133, and an assignment unit 134, and realizes or executes the functions and actions of information processing described below. Note that the internal configuration of control unit 130 is not limited to the configuration shown in FIG. 14, and other configurations may be used as long as they perform the information processing described below.

[0111] The acquisition unit 131 acquires various information. For example, the acquisition unit 131 acquires a sound source uploaded by the creator 20 via a DAW, which is a cloud application provided to the creator terminal 10. For the sake of distinction, sound sources that can be used as material for music production and existing music may be referred to as "first content" below. Furthermore, new music produced by the creator 20 may be referred to as "second content." In other words, the acquisition unit 131 acquires the first content from the creator terminal 10. The acquisition unit 131 may also acquire the first content via a store or the like.

[0112] Furthermore, the acquisition unit 131 acquires rights information previously assigned to the first content. The rights information previously assigned to the first content is various information registered when the first content is generated, and corresponds to, for example, the rights information shown in FIG.

[0113] Specifically, the acquisition unit 131 acquires, as the rights information, information regarding the permission and usage conditions for secondary use set for the first content. Furthermore, the acquisition unit 131 may acquire, as the rights information, information regarding multiple rights holders who grant permission for the secondary use of the first content. For example, the acquisition unit 131 acquires information regarding the rights holders who hold the copyright for the first content. Furthermore, the acquisition unit 131 acquires the names of multiple copyright holders from whom permission must be obtained when making secondary use of the first content, the access addresses of the copyright holders, the access addresses of the organizations that manage the copyright, etc.

[0114] Furthermore, the acquisition unit 131 may acquire, as the rights information, information regarding permission and usage conditions for distribution of content created through secondary use of the first content. Specifically, when a new song is created through secondary use of the first content, the acquisition unit 131 acquires whether or not to permit distribution of the song, as well as the copyright royalties and copyright rate for distribution. The acquisition unit 131 also acquires usage conditions, such as whether or not to permit distribution based on the usage time and usage rate (such as the proportion of the second content) of the first content. For example, the acquisition unit 131 acquires usage conditions registered with the first content, such as permitting distribution if the usage time of the first content is within one minute or if the usage rate of the first content is 20% or less of the playback time of the second content.

[0115] Furthermore, the acquisition unit 131 may acquire a sound source other than the first content uploaded by the creator 20 while creating a music piece using a DAW, etc. For example, the acquisition unit 131 acquires a similar sound source that is a sound source similar to the first content from the sound source storage unit 122 or each site on the network N.

[0116] The receiving unit 132 receives a request to separate the first content acquired by the acquiring unit 131 into a plurality of sound sources from a user (creator 20 in this embodiment) who uses the DAW.

[0117] The receiving unit 132 may calculate a fee to be paid by the creator 20 for executing the process of separating the first content into multiple sound sources, and may present the calculated fee to the creator 20 before receiving a request to separate the first content into multiple sound sources from the creator 20. For example, the receiving unit 132 presents the creator 20 with points required for separation, as shown in FIG.

[0118] For example, the reception unit 132 may calculate the fee based on the playback time of the first content for which sound source separation is performed, the number of sound sources to be separated and newly generated, the popularity of the first content (such as usage history from other creators and the number of views of the first content), etc.

[0119] The receiving unit 132 may receive a request from the creator 20 to separate not all of the first content but a part of it. This allows the generating unit 133, which will be described later, to perform the process more quickly than when separating the sound source from the entire first content.

[0120] The generation unit 133 generates a sound source separated from the first content in a format usable on a DAW by inputting the first content into a model that has previously learned the characteristics of each sound source that constitutes a piece of music, based on the request received by the reception unit 132. The generation unit 133 corresponds to the sound source separation system 70 and the similar sound source search system 75 shown in FIG.

[0121] For example, the generation unit 133 inputs the first content into a model that has previously learned the characteristics of each instrument that makes up the music piece, thereby generating sound sources for each instrument separated from the first content in a format that can be used on a DAW.

[0122] Furthermore, after generating a sound source separated from the first content, the generating unit 133 may present to the creator 20 a similar sound source that is a sound source similar to the sound source.

[0123] For example, the generation unit 133 presents to the creator 20, as similar sound sources, instruments used in the sound source separated from the first content, or sound sources similar in tempo or rhythm to the sound source separated from the first content.

[0124] Specifically, the generation unit 133 presents to the creator 20, among the multiple similar sound sources, those that correspond to at least one of the following elements: a sound source having a playback time closer to that of the sound source separated from the first content, a sound source having a pitch closer to that of the sound source separated from the first content, and a sound source having a tone closer to that of the sound source separated from the first content. The creator 20 can find a desired similar sound source from the similar sound sources listed in the window 347 shown in Fig. 8.

[0125] Furthermore, the generation unit 133 may present to the creator 20, among the plurality of similar sound sources, those that correspond to either those that are more frequently used by other users or those that have been viewed more frequently by other users as newly created second content using similar sound sources. This allows the creator 20 to preferentially find materials that are popular with other creators or sound sources that are preferred by users who view them.

[0126] Furthermore, when the creator 20 uses a sound source separated from the first content or a similar sound source, the generation unit 133 may present to the creator 20 a similar sound source for which usage conditions that impose a lighter burden on the creator 20 are set. As described above, when the creator 20 creates a song using the first content or a separated sound source, a fee such as a copyright fee is incurred for the use. For this reason, the generation unit 133 may preferentially present to the creator 20, among the similar sound sources, a similar sound source for which a fee is set lower or a similar sound source for which usage conditions are more lenient (no restrictions on playback time, no restrictions on where the sound source can be used, etc.). This allows the creator 20 to create a song using the sound source of his or her choice while minimizing the usage fees paid.

[0127] When generating a separated sound source, the generation unit 133 generates the rights information of the sound source separated from the first content based on the rights information previously assigned to the first content. For example, if the first content includes usage conditions or secondary use permission information, the generation unit 133 inherits that information into the rights information of the sound source separated from the first content. This allows the rights holder of the first content to receive a share of the usage fee according to the use, even if a new song is created using part of the first content as material, and to track what new songs their sound source is being used in.

[0128] When a second content is produced by using a part of the first content, the granting unit 134 grants the rights information relating to the second content based on the rights information acquired by the acquiring unit 131.

[0129] For example, the granting unit 134 grants, as the rights information of the second content, information indicating that the creator 20 is permitted to use the first content to create the second content, which allows the creator 20 to prove that the created second content was created using the first content for which secondary use is permitted.

[0130] Furthermore, when the second content is created, the granting unit 134 may grant information indicating that consent has been obtained from multiple rights holders who grant permission for the secondary use of the first content. If the first content has multiple copyright holders, secondary use of the first content may require permission from a set number of copyright holders (e.g., all copyright holders). In this case, if information indicating consent has been obtained from multiple rights holders is set as the rights information for the first content, the granting unit 134 grants such information as the rights information for the second content. This allows the creator 20 to prove that the second content was created using the first content, the use of which has been permitted based on consent.

[0131] Furthermore, when the first content is provided with information regarding permission and terms of use for distribution of content created through secondary use, the granting unit 134 may grant, as rights information for the second content, information indicating that distribution of the second content is permitted. This allows the creator 20, when wishing to distribute the second content, to distribute the second content without having to obtain permission for distribution from the rights holder of the first content. Note that, based on the information set in the first content, the granting unit 134 may also grant, to the second content, information such as a usage fee to be distributed to the rights holder of the first content from which the second content was derived when the second content is distributed.

[0132] Furthermore, the granting unit 134 grants, as rights information relating to the second content, information on the right holder who holds the copyright for the second content and information on the right holder who holds the copyright for the first content. In this case, the copyright information for the second content is registered by the creator 20 who created the second content, as shown in FIG. 11 etc.

[0133] Furthermore, based on the rights information granted by the granting unit 134, the acquiring unit 131 may search for other existing songs or sound sources that can be used as materials to recommend to the creator 20.

[0134] For example, the acquisition unit 131 may refer to the rights information previously assigned to the first content, and acquire another first content to which more advantageous usage conditions are assigned compared to the usage conditions indicated in the rights information.

[0135] Specifically, the acquisition unit 131 refers to the rights information previously granted to the first content, which is information about the usage fee when a second content is produced using part of the first content, and acquires other first content that has a lower usage fee than the first usage fee, thereby enabling the creator 20 to find existing songs and sound sources that can be used for a lower fee.

[0136] Furthermore, the acquisition unit 131 may refer to history information on how the first content was used when music was produced in the past, and acquire other first content to which history information indicating a larger usage history is attached. That is, the acquisition unit 131 may acquire a popular first content that is used by many creators, and present it to the creator 20 as a recommendation.

[0137] Furthermore, when the acquisition unit 131 acquires the rights information previously granted to the first content during the production of the second content, the acquisition unit 131 may display a list of the rights information previously granted to the first content on a user interface that controls the production of the second content. For example, the acquisition unit 131 displays the window 351 shown in Fig. 9 on the DAW, and displays the acquired rights information so that the creator 20 can view it.

[0138] Specifically, the acquisition unit 131 displays on the user interface the usage fee that the creator of the second content will pay to the rights holder of the first content when the second content is produced using part of the first content. This allows the creator 20 to see at a glance what first content is included as material in the second content that he or she intends to produce, and how much usage fee will be incurred.

[0139] Furthermore, the acquisition unit 131 may display, as the usage fee, the time during which the first content is used in the second content, or the usage fee set individually for each component of the first content. For example, the acquisition unit 131 may acquire the copyright rate and initial cost set for each first content and display the acquired information, as in window 351 shown in Fig. 9. This allows the creator 20 to proceed with production while checking how much usage fee will be incurred for how long and which first content will be used.

[0140] Furthermore, the granting unit 134 may grant, as the rights information related to the second content, information indicating whether or not secondary use is permitted to create a new third content by partially using the second content. As described above, the license information related to the second content is set by the creator 20 and registered on the DAW. Such information is granted to the second content by the granting unit 134 and registered in the information management system 50 (blockchain). At this time, the creator 20 can set license conditions for secondary use of the second content for which the creator 20 is the rights holder. This allows the creator 20 to receive a share of the second content when the second content created by the creator 20 is used by a third party.

[0141] As shown in FIG. 11 and other figures, the granting unit 134 grants usage conditions including the time during which the second content is used in the third content or usage fees that are set individually for each component of the second content.

[0142] Furthermore, the granting unit 134 may distribute the second content to which information indicating whether or not secondary use of the second content is permitted and usage conditions is granted, in response to a request from the author of the second content (the creator 20 or a person entrusted with copyright by the creator 20). Specifically, the granting unit 134 can distribute the second content by entrusting the distribution of the second content to the distribution intermediary 30. For example, the granting unit 134 can register in the information management system 50 that the author wishes the second content to be distributed, thereby causing the distribution intermediary 30, which has received the information, to start distribution.

[0143] In this way, the granting unit 134 registers the rights information related to the second content in ledger data of a blockchain formed between at least one of the distributor of the second content (distribution intermediary 30), the administrator of the rights information granted to the second content (music publisher 35), and the person who collects royalties when the second content is used (copyright administrator 40). Because the structure of a blockchain makes it difficult to tamper with data, the granting unit 134 can safely store the rights information related to the second content, etc.

[0144] (1-5. Information Processing Procedure According to the Embodiment) Next, the procedure of information processing according to the embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 18 to Fig. 20. First, the flow of sound source separation processing according to the embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to Fig. 18. Fig. 18 is a flowchart (1) showing the procedure of information processing according to the embodiment.

[0145] 18, the information processing device 100 determines whether or not a request for sound source separation has been received from the creator 20 (step S101). If the request has not been received (step S101; No), the information processing device 100 waits until a request is received.

[0146] On the other hand, if a request has been received (step S101; Yes), the information processing device 100 outputs the sound source separation result (step S102).

[0147] Next, the information processing device 100 searches for a similar sound source that is similar to the separated sound source (step S103), and then the information processing device 100 displays the separation result and the search result on the user interface of the DAW (step S104).

[0148] Next, a flow of granting rights information according to an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to Fig. 19. Fig. 19 is a flowchart (2) showing the procedure of information processing according to the embodiment.

[0149] 19, the information processing device 100 acquires the rights information assigned to the material of a new musical piece (step S201). Thereafter, the information processing device 100 determines whether or not a request for music registration has been received from the creator 20 who created the new musical piece (step S202). If no request has been received (step S202; No), the information processing device 100 waits until a request is received.

[0150] On the other hand, if a request is accepted (step S202; Yes), the information processing device 100 assigns the copyright information related to the material and the copyright information related to the music set by the creator 20 to the music (step S203). Note that if a music piece is created based on multiple materials, the information processing device 100 may assign the copyright information of all the materials to the new music piece.

[0151] Thereafter, the information processing device 100 executes distribution and rights processing for the new song (step S204). For example, the information processing device 100 executes processing such as transmitting the sound source to the distribution intermediary 30 and transferring the copyright to the music publisher 35.

[0152] Thereafter, the information processing device 100 determines whether the song has been used by a third party (step S205). If the song has not been used by a third party (step S205; No), the information processing device 100 waits until the song is used by a third party.

[0153] On the other hand, if the song has been used by a third party (step S205; Yes), the information processing device 100 executes distribution processing of copyright royalties and the like based on the use and the rights information set for the song (step S206).

[0154] Next, the flow of rights processing by the information processing system 1 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 20. Fig. 20 is a sequence diagram showing the procedure of the information processing system 1 according to the embodiment. Fig. 20 shows an example in which when a new song is produced, there are two rights holders (a first rights holder 91 and a second rights holder 92) for the sound source that serves as the material for the song.

[0155] 20, the information processing device 100 (i.e., the DAW) searches the store 90 for materials desired by the creator 20 in accordance with an operation by the creator 20 (step S301). The store 90 transmits the search results to the information processing device 100 (step S302). The information processing device 100 displays the search results on the DAW and acquires sound sources from the store 90 in response to a purchase request from the creator 20.

[0156] Next, the information processing device 100 accesses the information management system 50 and refers to the metadata of the acquired sound source (step S303). For example, the information processing device 100 inquires about information such as whether secondary use of the sound source is permitted and what the usage conditions are. Furthermore, the information processing device 100 refers to the metadata and acquires information about the right holder, such as the copyright holder, registered in the sound source (step S304).

[0157] When a song is created using the sound source acquired in step S302, the information processing device 100 accesses the first rights holder 91, who is the rights holder of the sound source, and sends information about the song usage contract (step S305). This process is executed by the DAW, for example, when the creator 20 clicks on the button 366 shown in Fig. 11.

[0158] The information processing device 100 transmits information to the first rights holder 91, such as the fact that the sound source has been used in a new song, the duration of use, the manner of use, and the parts used. If the first rights holder 91 determines that the use complies with the terms of use, it transmits a song use agreement to the information processing device 100 (step S306). Note that the first rights holder 91 may be configured in advance to automatically return information regarding the agreement when the information processing device 100 determines that the use complies with the terms of use, without manually transmitting information regarding the agreement.

[0159] As in step S307, the information processing device 100 sends information about the music usage contract to the second rights holder 92 (step S307). The second rights holder 92 refers to the music usage contract and sends a message to the information processing device 100 indicating that it has agreed to the music usage (step S308). If there are more rights holders related to the sound source, the information processing device 100 repeats the processes of steps S307 and S308 as many times as the number of rights holders.

[0160] When agreement is obtained from all rights holders, the information processing device 100 registers the fact that the contract has been agreed to in the information management system 50 (step S309). When the information is approved on the blockchain, the information management system 50 transmits this fact to the information processing device 100 (step S310). This information is written, for example, into the metadata of the sound source acquired in step S302 and into the metadata of the new song to be subsequently registered.

[0161] Next, the information processing device 100 registers the newly produced music, to which the rights holder, terms of use, etc. have been assigned, in the information management system 50 (step S311). If the information is approved on the blockchain, the information management system 50 transmits a notice to that effect to the information processing device 100 (step S312).

[0162] Thereafter, in response to a request from the creator 20, the information processing device 100 entrusts the distribution of the music to the distribution intermediary 30 (step S313). Note that, in parallel with step S313, the information processing device 100 may also perform processing such as transferring rights to the music publisher 35. The distribution intermediary 30 transmits to the information processing device 100 a message indicating that the distribution contract has been agreed upon (step S314).

[0163] Thereafter, the information processing device 100 registers information regarding the distribution contract agreement, including rights information of the distribution intermediary 30, etc., who has obtained the right to distribute the music, in the information management system 50 (step S315). If the information is approved on the blockchain, the information management system 50 transmits a notice to that effect to the information processing device 100 (step S316).

[0164] Thereafter, when the information processing device 100 receives an inquiry about the song from the creator 20 or the like (for example, an inquiry about the usage status, distribution status, or remuneration status), the information processing device 100 refers to song information corresponding to the inquiry in the information management system 50 (step S317). When the information processing device 100 obtains information corresponding to the inquiry from the information management system 50, it displays the information on the DAW (step S318).

[0165] As described above, according to the information processing system 1, the creator 20 can view information about his / her own music on the DAW at any time even after signing a music distribution contract, etc. This allows the creator 20 to check integrated information on the DAW regarding rights information and remuneration information, which tend to be scattered when distributing music, and also allows the creator 20 to easily update contract and management information.

[0166] (1-6. Modifications of the embodiment) (1-6-1. Operation as an information processing system) In the above embodiment, an example has been shown in which the information processing according to the present disclosure is executed by the information processing device 100. However, the information processing according to the present disclosure may be executed by the creator terminal 10, which is a local terminal, or the distribution intermediary 30, etc. in cooperation with each other. In other words, the information processing according to the present disclosure is not limited to the example exemplified in the embodiment, and may be executed on an information processing system 1 including various devices.

[0167] (1-6-2. Rights Information) In the above embodiment, an example was shown in which the rights information includes information on copyrights for music, permission for secondary use of music, usage conditions, etc., recorded as metadata. However, the rights information is not limited to this.

[0168] For example, the rights information may include information on not only the song's lyricist and composer, but also the arranger, copyright assignee, performer, and neighboring rights holder. The rights information may also include the share of each right holder's rights and the amount of compensation, consensus information (agreement information) indicating the agreement between the rights holders regarding their shares, contract details and messages when an agreement is reached, contact information for each right holder, etc. The metadata for a song may also include the rights information for all of the sound sources incorporated as material into the song.

[0169] The rights information may also include a digital signature indicating that the creator 20, a distribution intermediary, etc., have agreed to a distribution contract or rights assignment. The rights information may also include the distribution amount, such as how much money will be distributed per distribution, the percentage of the remuneration distributed to each rights holder, and each copyright holder's share of the copyright royalties.

[0170] In the above embodiment, an example was shown in which licensing of a sound source to be used in a new song was automatically executed using a smart contract. In this case, the information processing device 100 does not necessarily obtain licenses from all copyright holders, but may proceed with automatic contracts according to individual conditions set in each piece of rights information, such as "use of the sound source is permitted only if a certain percentage of all copyright holders grant permission." In this way, the information processing device 100 can flexibly and quickly execute licensing, etc., thereby streamlining song production and subsequent distribution processes.

[0171] (1-6-3. Production system) In the above embodiment, an example has been shown in which music is produced by the creator terminal 10 operated by the creator 20. However, music may also be produced simultaneously by multiple terminal devices operated by multiple creators.

[0172] As described above, the information processing device 100 provides a DAW as a cloud application, allowing files that multiple creators are working on to be shared in the cloud. This allows multiple creators to create music while simultaneously working on a single work file.

[0173] Furthermore, the information processing device 100 acquires copyright information for materials included in files being created in real time and displays it on the DAW, allowing multiple creators to proceed with production while constantly checking what materials are included in the materials being created, how much money will be incurred, and so on.

[0174] (2. Other Embodiments) The processing according to each of the above-described embodiments may be implemented in various different forms other than the above-described embodiments.

[0175] For example, among the processes described in the above embodiments, all or part of the processes described as being performed automatically can be performed manually, or all or part of the processes described as being performed manually can be performed automatically using a known method. Furthermore, the information including the processing procedures, specific names, various data, and parameters shown in the above documents and drawings can be changed as desired unless otherwise specified. For example, the various information shown in each drawing is not limited to the information shown in the drawings.

[0176] Furthermore, the components of each device shown in the figure are conceptual functional components and do not necessarily have to be physically configured as shown in the figure. In other words, the specific form of distribution and integration of each device is not limited to that shown in the figure, and all or part of them can be functionally or physically distributed and integrated in any unit depending on various loads, usage conditions, etc.

[0177] Furthermore, the above-described embodiments and modifications can be combined as appropriate within the scope of not causing any contradiction in the processing content.

[0178] Furthermore, the effects described in this specification are merely examples and are not limiting, and other effects may also be present.

[0179] (3. Effects of the information processing device according to the present disclosure) As described above, the information processing device (information processing device 100 in the embodiment) according to the present disclosure has an acquisition unit (acquisition unit 131 in the embodiment), a reception unit (reception unit 132 in the embodiment), a generation unit (generation unit 133 in the embodiment), and an assignment unit (assignment unit 134 in the embodiment).

[0180] The acquisition unit acquires a first content. The reception unit receives a request from a user of the DAW (creator 20 in this embodiment) to separate the first content acquired by the acquisition unit into multiple sound sources. The generation unit generates sound sources separated from the first content in a format usable on the DAW by inputting the first content into a model that has previously learned the characteristics of each sound source that constitutes a piece of music, based on the request received by the reception unit.

[0181] In this way, the information processing device can separate sound sources in a format that meets the creator's requirements, even for existing music, and generate them in a format that can be used by a DAW, thereby improving the efficiency of music production in today's world, where sampling materials and the like are widely used.

[0182] In addition, the generation unit inputs the first content into a model that has previously learned the characteristics of each instrument that makes up the music piece, and generates sound sources for each instrument separated from the first content in a format that can be used on a DAW.

[0183] In this way, the information processing device can separate the sound source for each instrument, and therefore can appropriately provide the sound source that the creator desires when creating music.

[0184] Furthermore, after generating the sound source separated from the first content, the generating unit presents a similar sound source, which is a sound source similar to the generated sound source, to the user.

[0185] In this way, the information processing device can provide the creator with a sound source similar to the sound source that the creator wanted by presenting not only the separated sound source but also similar sound sources, thereby supporting the creator in creating music.

[0186] The generation unit also presents to the user, as similar sound sources, musical instruments used in the sound source separated from the first content, and sound sources similar in tempo or rhythm to the sound source separated from the first content.

[0187] In this way, the information processing device can efficiently search for the sound source that the creator desires by determining the similarity based on the instrument (that is, the tone color), tempo, and the like.

[0188] In addition, the generation unit presents to the user, among the multiple similar sound sources, those that correspond to at least one of the following elements: those having playback times closer to the sound source separated from the first content, those having pitch closer to the sound source separated from the first content, and those having tone closer to the sound source separated from the first content.

[0189] In this way, the information processing device can increase the creator's options by presenting a list of searched similar sound sources to the creator, thereby encouraging more active music creation.

[0190] In addition, the generation unit presents to the user, among the multiple similar sound sources, those that correspond to either those that are more frequently used by other users, or those whose newly created second content using the similar sound source is more frequently viewed by other users.

[0191] In this way, the information processing device can provide creators with information including what kind of sound sources are popular with many users by presenting similar sound sources according to the popularity of the sound source.

[0192] The acquisition unit acquires usage conditions previously assigned to the first content. When a user uses a sound source separated from the first content or a similar sound source, the generation unit presents the user with a similar sound source having usage conditions that impose a lighter burden on the user.

[0193] In this way, the information processing device can present similar sound sources according to the conditions (licenses, copyright royalties, etc.) under which the creator uses the first content in a song, thereby providing sound sources that are less of a burden to the creator and encouraging the creator to create music.

[0194] The reception unit also calculates a fee to be paid by the user for executing the process of separating the first content into multiple sound sources, presents the calculated fee to the user, and then receives a request from the user to separate the first content into multiple sound sources.

[0195] In this way, the information processing device can promote monetization in music production using DAWs by accepting sound source separation after offering compensation such as points.

[0196] The acquisition unit acquires rights information previously assigned to the first content, and the generation unit generates rights information for the sound source separated from the first content based on the rights information previously assigned to the first content.

[0197] In this way, the information processing device can prevent the first content from being used unfairly or the rights holder of the first content from not receiving fair compensation by allowing the separated sound source to inherit the rights information that was granted to the first content.

[0198] The receiving unit receives a request from a user to separate a portion of the first content. The generating unit inputs the portion of the first content into a model to generate a sound source separated from the portion.

[0199] In this way, the information processing device can quickly perform the separation process by separating only a portion of the sound sources.

[0200] The acquisition unit also acquires rights information previously assigned to the first content. When a second content (in the embodiment, a new song created by creator 20) is created using a part of the first content, the assignment unit assigns rights information related to the second content based on the rights information acquired by the acquisition unit.

[0201] In this way, the information processing device assigns appropriate rights information to the second content, which is created using, for example, a sampling material, based on the rights information of the first content. This allows the information processing device to efficiently manage music without requiring the creator to go through the trouble of complex rights processing and to prevent errors in rights setting due to manual input, etc.

[0202] The acquisition unit acquires information regarding the permission and usage conditions for secondary use set for the first content as rights information previously granted to the first content. The granting unit grants information indicating that permission to use the first content to create the second content is granted as rights information for the second content.

[0203] In this way, by transferring the secondary use permission information of the first content to the second content, the information processing device can easily set the rights information of the second content while distributing appropriate compensation to the rights holder of the first content.

[0204] The acquisition unit acquires, as rights information previously granted to the first content, information on multiple right holders who grant permission for the secondary use of the first content. When the second content is produced, the granting unit grants, to the second content, information indicating that consent has been obtained from the multiple right holders who grant permission for the secondary use of the first content.

[0205] In this way, the information processing device can prove that the second content has been produced through legitimate procedures by adding the agreement information of a plurality of right holders as the right information.

[0206] The acquisition unit acquires, as rights information previously granted to the first content, information regarding the permission and usage conditions for distribution of content created by secondary use of the first content. The granting unit grants, as rights information related to the second content, information indicating that distribution of the second content is permitted.

[0207] In this way, by inheriting information regarding the distribution of the first content, the information processing device can efficiently perform processes such as distributing profits made when the second content is distributed to the rights holder of the first content.

[0208] The acquiring unit acquires information on a right holder who holds the copyright for the first content as rights information previously assigned to the first content. The assigning unit assigns information on a right holder who holds the copyright for the first content as rights information related to the second content, along with information on a right holder who holds the copyright for the second content.

[0209] In this way, by including copyright holder information for the first content in the second content, the information processing device can efficiently perform processes such as notifying the rights holder that the first content has been used in the production of another piece of music and distributing copyright royalties.

[0210] Furthermore, the acquisition unit refers to the rights information previously assigned to the first content, and acquires another first content to which a more advantageous usage condition is assigned compared to the usage condition indicated in the rights information.

[0211] In this way, the information processing device can recommend materials that can be used under more advantageous conditions to creators who wish to use the first content, thereby encouraging creators to create music.

[0212] The acquisition unit also refers to information on the usage fee when a second content is produced using part of the first content as rights information previously granted to the first content, and acquires other first content that has been granted a usage fee lower than the usage fee.

[0213] In this way, the information processing device can encourage creators to create music by recommending materials with lower usage fees.

[0214] The acquisition unit also refers to history information on how the first content was used when the second content was produced in the past, and acquires other first content to which history information indicating a larger usage history has been added.

[0215] In this way, the information processing device can recommend materials based on the history of their use, in other words, their popularity, thereby promoting the creation of music that is expected to be accepted by a larger number of users.

[0216] In addition, when the acquisition unit acquires the rights information previously granted to the first content during the production of the second content, the acquisition unit displays a list of the rights information previously granted to the first content on a user interface that controls the production of the second content.

[0217] In this way, the information processing device can provide the creator with real-time information about what materials are being used to create a piece of music, for example, by displaying the rights information on the DAW window.

[0218] Furthermore, the acquisition unit displays on the user interface the usage fee to be paid by the creator of the second content to the right holder of the first content when the second content is produced using a part of the first content.

[0219] In this way, the information processing device can make creators aware in advance of the costs involved in producing a piece of music by displaying in real time the costs that will be required if the piece of music is produced.

[0220] Furthermore, the acquisition unit displays, as the usage fee, the time during which the first content is used in the second content, or the usage fee set individually for each component of the first content.

[0221] In this way, the information processing device can inform creators of the costs associated with music production in real time by displaying on the DAW how much usage fee will be incurred for each amount of material used.

[0222] The granting unit also grants, as the rights information related to the second content, information indicating whether or not secondary use is permitted for creating a third content, which is a new content, by using a part of the second content.

[0223] In this way, by assigning rights information to the second content, the information processing device can easily set rights information, which conventionally required a creator to do a lot of work.

[0224] The granting unit also grants usage conditions including the time during which the second content is used in the third content or usage fees that are set individually for each component of the second content.

[0225] In this way, by setting conditions for the use of the second content, the information processing device can distribute an appropriate usage fee to the right holder of the second content when the second content is used, thereby providing an incentive for creators to create music.

[0226] The acquisition unit also acquires a distribution request for the second content from the copyright holder of the second content. In response to the distribution request acquired by the acquisition unit, the granting unit distributes the second content to which information indicating whether secondary use of the second content is permitted and the usage conditions have been granted.

[0227] In this way, by receiving a distribution request via a DAW or the like, the information processing device can easily perform distribution settings that previously required the creator's time and effort.

[0228] In addition, the granting unit registers the rights information related to the second content in ledger data of a blockchain that is composed of at least one of the distributor of the second content, the administrator of the rights information granted to the second content, and the person who collects usage fees when the second content is used.

[0229] In this way, by using blockchain to register rights information, information processing devices can prevent data tampering and improve the convenience of various entities accessing and updating rights information.

[0230] (4. Hardware Configuration) An information device such as the information processing device 100 according to each embodiment described above is realized by, for example, a computer 1000 configured as shown in FIG. 21. The information processing device 100 according to the embodiment will be described below as an example. FIG. 21 is a hardware configuration diagram showing an example of the computer 1000 that realizes the functions of the information processing device 100. The computer 1000 has a CPU 1100, a RAM 1200, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 1300, an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) 1400, a communication interface 1500, and an input / output interface 1600. The components of the computer 1000 are connected by a bus 1050.

[0231] The CPU 1100 operates and controls each unit based on programs stored in the ROM 1300 or the HDD 1400. For example, the CPU 1100 loads the programs stored in the ROM 1300 or the HDD 1400 into the RAM 1200 and executes processing corresponding to the various programs.

[0232] The ROM 1300 stores boot programs such as a Basic Input Output System (BIOS) executed by the CPU 1100 when the computer 1000 is started, and programs that depend on the hardware of the computer 1000 .

[0233] HDD 1400 is a computer-readable recording medium that non-temporarily records programs executed by CPU 1100 and data used by such programs. Specifically, HDD 1400 is a recording medium that records an information processing program according to the present disclosure, which is an example of program data 1450.

[0234] The communication interface 1500 is an interface for connecting the computer 1000 to an external network 1550 (e.g., the Internet). For example, the CPU 1100 receives data from other devices and transmits data generated by the CPU 1100 to other devices via the communication interface 1500.

[0235] The input / output interface 1600 is an interface for connecting the input / output device 1650 and the computer 1000. For example, the CPU 1100 receives data from an input device such as a keyboard or a mouse via the input / output interface 1600. The CPU 1100 also transmits data to an output device such as a display, a speaker, or a printer via the input / output interface 1600. The input / output interface 1600 may also function as a media interface for reading programs and the like recorded on a predetermined recording medium. Examples of media include optical recording media such as a DVD (Digital Versatile Disc) or a PD (Phase Change Rewritable Disk), magneto-optical recording media such as an MO (Magneto-Optical disk), tape media, magnetic recording media, and semiconductor memories.

[0236] For example, when the computer 1000 functions as the information processing device 100 according to the embodiment, the CPU 1100 of the computer 1000 executes an information processing program loaded onto the RAM 1200, thereby realizing functions of the control unit 130 and the like. The information processing program according to the present disclosure and data in the storage unit 120 are stored in the HDD 1400. The CPU 1100 reads and executes program data 1450 from the HDD 1400, but as another example, the CPU 1100 may obtain these programs from another device via an external network 1550.

[0237] The present technology can also be configured as follows. (1) an acquisition unit that acquires rights information previously assigned to the first content; an assigning unit that assigns rights information related to the second content based on the rights information acquired by the acquiring unit when the second content is produced by partially using the first content; An information processing device comprising: (2) The acquisition unit acquiring information regarding a license and terms of use for secondary use set for the first content as rights information previously granted to the first content; The granting unit providing, as rights information relating to the second content, information indicating that the second content is licensed to be produced using the first content; The information processing device according to (1) above. (3) The acquisition unit acquiring information on a plurality of right holders who grant permission for secondary use of the first content as right information previously granted to the first content; The granting unit When the second content is produced, information indicating that consent has been obtained from multiple right holders who permit the secondary use of the first content is added. The information processing device according to (2) above. (4) The acquisition unit acquiring, as rights information previously granted to the first content, information regarding a license and terms of use for distribution of content produced by secondary use of the first content; The granting unit adding information indicating that distribution of the second content is permitted as rights information related to the second content; The information processing device according to any one of (1) to (3). (5) The acquisition unit acquiring information about a right holder who holds a copyright related to the first content as rights information previously granted to the first content; The granting unit As the rights information relating to the second content, information on the right holder who holds the copyright to the second content and information on the right holder who holds the copyright to the first content are provided. The information processing device according to any one of (1) to (4). (6) The acquisition unit referencing rights information previously assigned to the first content, and acquiring another first content to which more advantageous usage conditions are assigned compared to the usage conditions indicated in the rights information; The information processing device according to any one of (1) to (5). (7) The acquisition unit referencing information on a usage fee when a second content is produced using a part of the first content as rights information previously granted to the first content, and acquiring the other first content to which a usage fee lower than the usage fee is granted; The information processing device according to (6) above. (8) The acquisition unit referring to history information on the use of the first content when the second content was produced in the past, and acquiring other first content to which history information indicating a larger usage history is attached; The information processing device according to any one of (1) to (7). (9) The acquisition unit When the rights information previously granted to the first content is acquired during the production of the second content, a list of the rights information previously granted to the first content is displayed on a user interface that controls the production of the second content. The information processing device according to any one of (1) to (8). (10) The acquisition unit displaying on the user interface a usage fee to be paid by the creator of the second content to the right holder of the first content when the second content is produced by using a part of the first content; The information processing device according to (9) above. (11) The acquisition unit As the usage fee, the time during which the first content is used in the second content or a usage fee set individually for each component of the first content is displayed. The information processing device according to (10) above. (12) The granting unit As the rights information relating to the second content, information indicating whether or not secondary use is permitted to create a third content that is a new content by partially using the second content is added. The information processing device according to any one of (1) to (11) above. (13) The granting unit The third content imposes usage conditions including a usage fee that is set individually for the time the second content is used or for each component of the second content. The information processing device according to (12) above. (14) The acquisition unit receiving a request for distribution of the second content from a copyright holder of the second content; The granting unit In response to the distribution request acquired by the acquisition unit, the second content is distributed along with information indicating whether or not secondary use of the second content is permitted and the second content to which the usage conditions have been assigned. The information processing device according to (13) above. (15) The granting unit Registering the rights information related to the second content in ledger data of a blockchain formed between at least one of a distributor of the second content, an administrator of rights information granted to the second content, and a collector of usage fees when the second content is used; The information processing device according to any one of (1) to (14). (16) The computer Acquire rights information previously assigned to the first content; When a second content is produced by partially using the first content, rights information relating to the second content is granted based on rights information previously granted to the first content. Information processing methods. (17) Computer, an acquisition unit that acquires rights information previously assigned to the first content; an assigning unit that assigns rights information related to the second content based on the rights information acquired by the acquiring unit when the second content is produced by partially using the first content; An information processing program that functions as a [Explanation of symbols]

[0238] 1. Information Processing Systems 10 Creator Devices 20 Creators 30 Distribution Intermediaries 35 Music Publishers 40 Copyright Administrator 50 Information Management System 100 Information processing device 110 Communications Department 120 Storage section 121 Creator Memory 122 Sound source storage section 130 Control Unit 131 Acquisition Department 132 Reception Department 133 Generation part 134 Granting Department 200 user terminals

Claims

1. an acquisition unit that acquires rights information previously assigned to the first content; an assigning unit that assigns rights information related to the second content based on the rights information acquired by the acquiring unit when the second content is produced by partially using the first content; Equipped with The acquisition unit referencing rights information previously assigned to the first content, and acquiring another first content to which more advantageous usage conditions are assigned compared to the usage conditions indicated in the rights information; Information processing device.

2. The acquisition unit acquiring information regarding a license and usage conditions for secondary use set for the first content as right information previously granted to the first content; The granting unit providing, as rights information relating to the second content, information indicating that the second content is permitted to be produced by using the first content; The information processing device according to claim 1 .

3. The acquisition unit acquiring, as rights information previously granted to the first content, information on a plurality of rights holders who permit secondary use of the first content; The granting unit When the second content is produced, information indicating that consent has been obtained from a plurality of right holders who permit the secondary use of the first content is added. The information processing device according to claim 2 .

4. The acquisition unit acquiring, as rights information previously granted to the first content, information regarding a license and usage conditions for distribution of content produced by secondary use of the first content; The granting unit providing information indicating that distribution of the second content is permitted as rights information related to the second content; The information processing device according to claim 1 .

5. The acquisition unit acquiring information about a right holder who holds a copyright related to the first content as right information previously granted to the first content; The granting unit As the rights information relating to the second content, information on a right holder who holds the copyright to the second content and information on a right holder who holds the copyright to the first content are provided. The information processing device according to claim 1 .

6. The acquisition unit referring to information on a usage fee when a second content is produced by partially using the first content as rights information previously granted to the first content, and acquiring the other first content to which a usage fee lower than the usage fee is granted; The information processing device according to claim 1 .

7. An acquisition unit that acquires rights information previously granted to a first content; an assigning unit that assigns rights information related to the second content based on the rights information acquired by the acquiring unit when the second content is produced by partially using the first content; Equipped with The acquisition unit referring to history information on the use of the first content when the second content was produced in the past, and acquiring other first content to which history information indicating a larger number of usage histories has been assigned; Information processing device.

8. The acquisition unit When the rights information previously granted to the first content is acquired during the production of the second content, a list of the rights information previously granted to the first content is displayed on a user interface that controls the production of the second content. The information processing device according to claim 1 .

9. The acquisition unit displaying on the user interface a usage fee to be paid by a creator of a second content to a right holder of the first content when the second content is produced by using a part of the first content; The information processing device according to claim 8 .

10. The acquisition unit As the usage fee, the time during which the first content is used in the second content or a usage fee set individually for each component of the first content is displayed. The information processing device according to claim 9 .

11. The granting unit As the rights information relating to the second content, information indicating whether or not secondary use of the second content to create a new third content by partially using the second content is permitted is assigned. The information processing device according to claim 1 .

12. The granting unit imparting usage conditions including a usage fee set individually for the time during which the second content is used in the third content or for each component of the second content; The information processing device according to claim 11.

13. The acquisition unit receiving a request for distribution of the second content from a copyright holder of the second content; The granting unit In response to the distribution request acquired by the acquisition unit, the second content is distributed along with information indicating whether or not secondary use of the second content is permitted and the second content to which the usage conditions have been assigned. The information processing device according to claim 12.

14. The granting unit Registering the rights information related to the second content in ledger data of a blockchain formed between at least one of a distributor of the second content, an administrator of rights information granted to the second content, and a collector of usage fees when the second content is used; The information processing device according to claim 1 .

15. The computer Acquire rights information previously assigned to the first content; When a second content is produced by partially using the first content, rights information relating to the second content is assigned based on rights information previously assigned to the first content. An information processing method, comprising: referencing rights information previously assigned to the first content, and acquiring another first content to which more advantageous usage conditions are assigned compared to the usage conditions indicated in the rights information; Information processing methods.

16. Computer, an acquisition unit that acquires rights information previously assigned to the first content; an assigning unit that assigns rights information related to the second content based on the rights information acquired by the acquiring unit when the second content is produced by partially using the first content; An information processing program for causing the device to function as The acquisition unit referencing rights information previously assigned to the first content, and acquiring another first content to which more advantageous usage conditions are assigned compared to the usage conditions indicated in the rights information; Information processing program.

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