Two-way communication system

Abstract

To provide a two-way communication service that can be selected from a new perspective as one objective.SOLUTION: A two-way communication system according to the present invention is a two-way communication system that performs two-way communication using audio and video between a plurality of terminals, and is capable of executing a selection process in which a first service or a second service is selected by a user. The first service limits the number of terminals that can be communication connected to n or less, and the second service limits the number of terminals that can be communication connected to n+1 or more.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 8

Description

【Technical Field】 , , , , , 【0006】 , , , 【0005】 , , , , 【0001】 The present invention relates to a two-way communication system that enables video and audio to be communicated with each other between terminals. 【Background Art】 【0002】 Currently, in various industries, two-way communication using terminals such as personal computers is actively carried out. In two-way communication, it is possible to realize a Web conference or the like by transmitting video and audio acquired by a terminal to other terminal devices. In a Web conference, it is possible to hold a meeting or a conference between remote locations by sharing video and audio. 【0003】 Patent Document 1 discloses that in a Web conference system using two-way communication, an event occurring in each room is detected and bandwidth control is performed within the range of the communication bandwidth assigned to each room. 【Prior Art Documents】 【Patent Documents】 【0004】 【Patent Document 1】 Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2014-112845 【Summary of the Invention】 【Problems to be Solved by the Invention】 【0005】 By the way, in various services using two-way communication, it is required to appropriately manage usage fees, communication quality, etc. In a Web conference system, there may be a limit on the usage time per access for paid and free versions. However, it is difficult to perform appropriate management in a service using two-way communication based only on the usage time. 【0006】 The present invention has been made in view of such a situation, and one of its objects is to provide a two-way communication service that can be selected from a new perspective. [Means for solving the problem] 【0007】 Therefore, the bidirectional communication system according to the present invention employs the following configuration. multiple Karaoke equipment A two-way communication system that enables two-way communication using voice and video between the two parties, Depending on the user, either the first service or The first service has different usage fees. Selection process where the second service is selected and , The system includes a code display process that executes a predetermined program on the user's mobile device, obtains a code for either the first service or the second service, and displays the obtained code. The first service process involves having the camera of the remote control device connected to the karaoke machine read the code of the first service, thereby enabling two-way communication via the first service. By having the camera of the remote control device connected to the karaoke machine read the code of the second service, two-way communication via the second service is enabled, and the second service process, which sets the usage status of the code of the second service to "used," is also made possible. The first service is a communication-enabled service. Karaoke equipment The number is limited to n or less, The second service is a communication-enabled service. Karaoke equipment The constraints are (n+1) or more. 【0012】 Also The bidirectional communication system according to the present invention is multiple Karaoke equipment A two-way communication system that enables two-way communication using voice and video between the two parties, The system allows the user to select either the first or second service. The first service is a communication-enabled service. Karaoke equipment The number is limited to n or less, The second service is a communication-enabled service. Karaoke equipment The restriction is (n+1) or more. the law of nature, In the first service, if there are karaoke machines requesting connections exceeding the limit, a switching notification process is performed to notify users already connected to the first service to switch to the second service. In response to user actions, a switching process is executed to switch from the first service to the second service. [Effects of the Invention] 【0014】 According to the bidirectional communication system of the present invention, it is possible to vary the number of terminals that can be communicatively connected according to the service selected by the user. According to the selected service, it is possible to vary the fee, the communication form to be used, etc., and it is possible to provide a service according to the communication quality or the operation cost of the system. 【Brief Description of the Drawings】 【0015】 [Figure 1] A diagram showing the network configuration in a karaoke store. [Figure 2] A diagram showing the configuration of the karaoke system according to this embodiment. [Figure 3] A diagram for explaining the communication configuration according to this embodiment [Figure 4] A flowchart showing the screen display process according to this embodiment [Figure 5] A flowchart showing the display process of the my code screen (free) according to this embodiment [Figure 6] A flowchart showing the display process of the my code screen (charged) according to this embodiment [Figure 7] A diagram showing various screens of the mobile terminal according to this embodiment [Figure 8] A diagram showing various screens of the mobile terminal according to this embodiment [Figure 9] A diagram showing various screens of the mobile terminal according to this embodiment <无限期 [Figure 10] A diagram showing various screens of the mobile terminal according to this embodiment [Figure 11] A flowchart showing the bidirectional communication process according to this embodiment [Figure 12] A diagram showing the reading explanation screen according to this embodiment [Figure 13] A diagram showing the code reading screen according to this embodiment [Figure 14] A diagram showing the monitor screen during bidirectional communication according to this embodiment 【Mode for Carrying Out the Invention】 【0016】 Figure 1 shows an example of a network configuration in a karaoke establishment. Each room (karaoke room), from Room A to Room K, is equipped with karaoke machines 2a to 2k and monitors 41a to 41k. The karaoke machines 2a to 2k are connected to LAN 100 via LAN cables, forming a network. LAN 100 is connected to the internet via a router 120 and an optical modem 121, and can communicate with a server (not shown). In this network environment, the karaoke machines 2a to 2k can communicate with the server to download new song information, or the server can manage user information and usage history. 【0017】 Furthermore, in this embodiment, by establishing a communication connection with karaoke devices 2a to 2k in other stores or within the same store, it is possible to perform two-way communication between the connected karaoke devices 2a to 2k. In two-way communication, it is possible to enjoy conversation or singing together by sending and receiving audio and video between the connected karaoke devices 2a to 2k. 【0018】 Remote control device 1, which outputs song selection instructions and various control commands to karaoke machine 2, is managed at a counter by the administrator (also called an employee or staff member). Customers (users) who visit the karaoke establishment complete the necessary procedures at this counter to borrow remote control device 1 and then proceed to the room instructed by the administrator. Remote control device 1 is equipped with wireless LAN functionality and is connected to LAN 100 via one of the access points 110a to 110c installed in the establishment, enabling it to communicate with the corresponding karaoke machine 2. 【0019】 Furthermore, a management computer 6 operated by the administrator is located inside the counter. The management computer 6 is an information processing device that manages customers who visit the establishment, and is capable of managing the number of customers entering each room, their arrival time, length of stay, departure time, charges, etc. The management computer 6 is connected to the LAN 100 and can communicate via the internet, or with the karaoke machines 2a-2k installed in each room, or with the remote control device 1. 【0020】 Figure 2 shows the configuration of a karaoke playback system according to an embodiment of the present invention. The karaoke system in this embodiment consists of a karaoke device 2 and a remote control device 1. The karaoke device 2 and the remote control device 1 are connected by communication using a LAN 100 and an access point 110. In Figure 1, subscripts a to k are used to identify the karaoke devices 2a to 2k and monitors 41a to 41k installed in each room, but in Figure 2, the subscripts a to k are omitted. 【0021】 The karaoke machine 2 includes an audio control unit 25 as a means of playing songs. The karaoke machine 2 also includes an operation unit 21 as an input means, consisting of switches and the like, that receive various inputs from the user. The karaoke machine 2 also includes an operation processing unit 22 that interprets the input from the operation unit 21 and transmits it to the control unit 20. Furthermore, the karaoke machine 2 includes an HDD 26 (hard disk drive) as a storage means on the karaoke machine 2 side for storing various information. The karaoke machine 2 also includes a LAN communication unit 24 as a communication means on the karaoke machine 2 side for connecting to the LAN 100. 【0022】 Furthermore, the karaoke device 2 includes a video playback means for displaying images such as lyrics and background images on the monitor 41. The video playback means includes a video playback unit 29 that plays background images based on background image information, a video RAM 28 that temporarily stores the background images to be played, and a video control unit 30 that overlays and displays lyrics on the played background images. The video control unit 30 may also have a function to add video effects to the background images. 【0023】 Furthermore, in addition to the externally connected monitor 41, the karaoke device 2 is also capable of displaying various information on the touch panel monitor 31. The touch panel monitor 31 is composed of a display unit 31a that displays video information input from the video control unit 30 and a touch panel 31b that outputs the touch input position to the operation processing unit 22. 【0024】 The touch panel monitor 31 can function as an operating means similar to the touch panel monitor 11, which is an operating means for the remote control device 1. The user can use the touch panel monitor 31 to select songs and directly make reservations on the karaoke machine 2, thus functioning as an operating means equivalent to the remote control device 1. 【0025】 Furthermore, the karaoke device 2 includes a control unit 20, which is composed of a CPU and the like, and a memory 27 for temporarily storing information necessary for executing various programs, as control means for controlling each component. 【0026】 In this configuration, the karaoke device 2 performs various processes, but its main functions include song selection and song playback. The song selection process is the process of selecting and reserving a song based on the user's request and is performed in cooperation with the remote control device 1. The reservation information, including the song ID that identifies the song transmitted from the remote control device 1, is registered in the reservation table stored in memory 27. The song playback process is the process of playing the song information of a song based on the song ID of the reservation information registered in the reservation table, and the performance process and the lyrics playback process are executed synchronously. 【0027】 The music playback process involves the sound control unit 25 playing the music information contained in the music information. The music information played by the sound control unit 25 is emitted from the speaker 42 along with the singing voice input from the singing microphones 43a and 43b. The lyrics playback process assists singing by displaying the lyrics on the monitor 41 based on the lyrics information contained in the music information. In addition to the lyrics displayed in this lyrics playback process, a background video display process may also be performed to superimpose a background video onto the displayed lyrics. 【0028】 Meanwhile, the remote control device 1 transmits various instructions to the karaoke device 2, such as reservation information, and receives various information from the karaoke device 2 or various servers connected to the internet. In this embodiment, the interface includes an operation unit 13 such as buttons and a touch panel monitor 11. The touch panel monitor 11 is configured to have a display unit 11a and a touch panel 11b, and displays various interfaces on the display unit 11a and is capable of receiving touch input from the user. 【0029】 Furthermore, the remote control device 1 is configured to include a database necessary for music search, various programs, a memory 10b for storing various information generated in conjunction with program execution, and control means on the remote control device 1 side for comprehensively controlling these components. The control means on the remote control device 1 side includes a control unit 10a composed of a CPU or the like, a video control unit 10c for forming the image to be displayed on the display unit 11a, a video RAM 10e for temporarily storing the video information to be displayed, and an operation processing unit 12 that interprets the input from the operation unit 13 and transmits it to the control unit 10a. In addition, the sound control unit 10d can output various sound signals to the speaker 14 based on the control of the control unit 10a, and can also receive sound signals input from the microphone 18. 【0030】 Furthermore, in this embodiment, the remote control device 1 has a camera 17 positioned above the touch panel monitor 11 on its housing, enabling it to take pictures or read images. The remote control device 1 is connected to the network configured by the LAN 100 by wirelessly connecting to the access point 110 via the wireless LAN communication unit 16. Each remote control device 1 is pre-associated with a specific karaoke machine 2. Various commands output from the remote control device 1 are received by the associated karaoke machine 2. The karaoke machine 2 can also be operated using a mobile device such as a smartphone owned by the user (customer). In that case, when the user visits the store, the user's mobile device is associated with the karaoke machine 2. 【0031】 Here, we will explain the mapping process for associating remote control device 1 with karaoke device 2. The mapping process can be performed in two ways: (1) by store employees in advance, or (2) by customers. 【0032】 In case (1), the remote control device 1 and the karaoke machine 2 are pre-associated by an employee, and at the store counter, the remote control device 1 that is associated with the karaoke machine 2 installed in the room the customer enters is lent out. 【0033】 In case (2), the remote control device 1 lent out at the counter is in a state where it is not yet associated with the karaoke machine 2 installed in the room the customer enters, and the association process is performed by the customer's operation in that room. 【0034】 In this embodiment of the karaoke system, a camera 17 and microphone 18 (or singing microphones 43a, 43b) provided on the remote control device 1 are used to perform two-way communication with another karaoke device 2 (or another information processing device), making it possible to enjoy conversations or singing with people in remote locations. 【0035】 Figure 3 is a diagram illustrating the communication configuration according to this embodiment. In this embodiment, each store A to C is connected to the internet by optical modems 121a to 121c. A management server 51, a first server 52a, and a second server 52b are provided on the internet and function as means for bidirectional communication between the karaoke machines 2 installed in each store A to C. 【0036】 In this embodiment, a free two-way communication service (corresponding to "Service 1") and a paid two-way communication service (corresponding to "Service 2") are provided. In this embodiment, the management server 51 manages the paid two-way communication service and information related to the paid two-way communication service. The free two-way communication service and the paid two-way communication service differ in the number of karaoke device terminals 2 that can be connected to (hereinafter referred to as "number of locations" or "number of rooms"). The free two-way communication service can connect to up to n locations (n=3 in this embodiment). If a user wants to connect to (n+1) or more locations, they must use the paid two-way communication service. 【0037】 The management server 51 manages information related to free and paid two-way communication services, such as codes (corresponding to "identification information") issued to mobile devices owned by users. Code management includes whether the code belongs to a free or paid two-way communication service, the code's expiration date, its validity, its usage history, and the number of connectable locations for the paid two-way communication service. 【0038】 The first server 52a is used in the free two-way communication service. In the free two-way communication service, the karaoke machine 2 to be connected accesses the first server 52a, and the karaoke machine 2 that shares the same virtual room is determined. Subsequently, video and audio communication between the karaoke machines 2 assigned the same virtual room is conducted peer-to-peer, without going through the first server 52a. On the other hand, in the paid two-way communication service, the karaoke machine 2 to be connected accesses the second server 52b, and the karaoke machine 2 that shares the same virtual room is determined. Subsequently, video and audio communication between the karaoke machines 2 assigned the same virtual room is conducted via the second server 52b. 【0039】 Next, we will explain how to obtain the code used to perform the two-way communication service. Figure 4 is a flowchart showing the screen display process according to this embodiment, and Figures 7 to 9 show various screens displayed on the display unit 71 of the mobile terminal. In this embodiment, the user obtains the code to perform the two-way communication service using the mobile terminal owned by the user. 【0040】 In this embodiment, the user runs a predetermined program (app) on their mobile device or connects to a predetermined website using a browser, and the main screen shown in Figure 7(A) is displayed on the display unit 71 (S101). The user can manage their own information by obtaining an account in advance and logging in. The state in Figure 7(A) shows the state in which "Tataku Taro" has logged in. 【0041】 The main screen is equipped with a My Code (Free) button 71a, a My Code (Paid) button 71b, a Reservation List button 71c, and a Logout button 71d. Here, My Code refers to a code acquired by the user and is used when performing two-way communication services. When the My Code (Free) button 71a is pressed (S102: Yes), the My Code screen (Free) display process (S200) is executed. 【0042】 Figure 5 is a flowchart showing the processing of the My Code screen (free) according to this embodiment. When the My Code screen (free) display processing (S200) is started, the My Code (free) screen shown in Figure 7(B) is first displayed on the display unit 71 of the mobile terminal (S201). The My Code (free) screen is provided with a free code display area 711 and a back button 71e. If the back button 71e is operated (S207: Yes), the My Code screen (free) display processing (S200) is terminated and the main screen shown in Figure 7(A) is displayed (S101). 【0043】 The free code display area 711 displays a title input field 711a, a free code 711b, a URL display field 711c, an SNS selection button 711d, and a code change button 711e. Users can use the free two-way communication service by having the camera 17 of the remote control device 1 read the free code 711b. In this embodiment, a two-dimensional code is used for the free code 711b. Furthermore, when performing the two-way communication service, it is necessary to provide the other user sharing the virtual room with information for connecting to the same virtual room. 【0044】 The user can send the URL displayed in the URL display field 711c to the other user via email or social networking service (SNS) to convey the free code 711b. In this embodiment, the user can also easily convey the free code 711b to the other user by operating the SNS selection button 711d. The SNS selection button 711d is provided for each type of SNS. By operating the desired SNS selection button 711d, the user can launch the SNS application and send the URL to the other user to obtain the free code 711b. 【0045】 Furthermore, by entering the title you want to convey to the other user in the title input field 711a, it is possible to display the title when the other user receives the free code 711b. In this embodiment, the free code 711b has an expiration date. If the expiration date has passed, the user can obtain a new free code 711b by operating the code change button 711e. 【0046】 In the My Code (Free) screen display process shown in Figure 5, if the code change button 711e is operated (S202: Yes), the mobile terminal accesses the management server 51 and re-obtains the free code 711b (S203). Then, the My Code (Free) screen is displayed with the re-obtained free code 711b in the free code display area 711 (S201). On the other hand, if the SNS selection button is operated (S204: Yes), the mobile terminal launches the selected SNS app (S205) and sends a URL to the other user to obtain the free code 711b to the SNS app (S206). 【0047】 Figure 10(A) shows the screen of a user's mobile device after receiving a URL to obtain a free code 711b via an SNS app. The message received from Taro Patent, the user shown in Figure 7(B), is displayed in the recipient message display area 71o. The message replied to Taro Patent is displayed in the self message display area 71p. 【0048】 In Figure 10(A), the second message display field 71o from the top displays the URL that Taro Patent entered by operating the URL display field 711c or the SNS selection button 711d. When the URL displayed in the message display field 71o is touched, the browser is launched, accesses the URL, and the code display screen shown in Figure 10(B) is displayed. 【0049】 The code display screen shows the title 71q (the string entered in the title input field 711a in Figure 7(B)), the free code 71r, the URL display field 71s, the SNS selection button 71t, and the list of participating stores button 71u. When a user receives the free code 71r, they have the camera 17 of the remote control device 1 read the free code 71r, enabling two-way communication between the karaoke device 2 used by Taro Patent, who sent the code, and the karaoke device 2 used by the user who received the free code 71r. 【0050】 Furthermore, users who receive the free code 71r can also invite more users to participate in the two-way communication service by sharing the URL displayed in the URL display field 71s with others, or by operating the SNS selection button 711d. In this embodiment, users need to go to a karaoke establishment and specify the model of karaoke machine 2 that is capable of using the two-way communication service. For this reason, a note is written below the free code 71r stating, "Please tell the store that you want model A." 【0051】 Additionally, a "List of Compatible Stores" button (71u) is provided to allow users to search for stores where Model A is available. When the "List of Compatible Stores" button (71u) is pressed, a list of stores where Model A is installed will be displayed. Users can then select their desired store from the list and make a reservation to use the two-way communication service. 【0052】 Next, we will explain the process for obtaining a paid code. When the My Code (Paid) button 71b is pressed on the main screen in Figure 7(A) (S103:Yes), the My Code (Paid) screen display process (S300) is executed. 【0053】 Figure 6 is a flowchart showing the processing of the My Code screen (paid) according to this embodiment. When the My Code screen (paid) display processing (S300) is started, the My Code issuance screen is first displayed on the display unit 71 of the mobile terminal (S301). 【0054】 Figure 8(A) shows the My Code Issuance screen. The My Code Issuance screen is provided with a paid code display area 712 and a back button 71e. When the back button 71e is pressed (S303: Yes), the My Code screen (paid) display process (S300) ends, and the main screen shown in Figure 7(A) is displayed (S101). The function of the back button 71e is the same for other screens such as Figure 7(B) and Figure 7(C). 【0055】 The paid code display area 712 displays a title input field 712a, a paid code display field 712b, and a code issuance button 712c. Figure 8(A) shows the state before obtaining a paid code, so the paid code is not displayed in the paid code display field 712b (it says "Not Purchased"). When the code issuance button 712c is operated (S302: Yes), the selection screen shown in Figure 7(B) is displayed (S304). The selection screen displays the number of locations / time selection button 71f, the confirmation / payment button 71g, and the back button 71e. 【0056】 In this embodiment, the number of locations is the number of rooms (terminals) in a karaoke establishment that shares virtual rooms using a two-way communication service, and there are two options: 10 rooms or less, and 30 rooms or less. The time is the duration of connection to the virtual room, and there are two options: within 3 hours, and within 24 hours (a total of four options) which are available on the location number / time selection button 71f. The user can select the desired number of locations and time by selecting one of the multiple location number / time selection buttons 71f displayed on the display unit 71. When the location number / time selection button 71f is selected, the confirmation / payment button 71g is operated, and the confirmation / payment process (S306) is executed. 【0057】 In the confirmation and payment process (S306), the mobile terminal communicates with the management server 51 to confirm the number of selected locations and time, and to make the payment for them (screen not shown). When the confirmation and payment process is completed (S307: Yes), the management server 51 sends a paid code to the mobile terminal. Upon receiving the paid code, the mobile terminal displays the My Code (Paid) screen shown in Figure 8(C). The My Code (Paid) screen includes a paid code display area 712 and a back button 71e. 【0058】 The paid code display area 712 is substantially the same as the free code display area 711 described in Figure 7(B), and displays a title input field 712a, a paid code 712e, a URL display field 712g, and an SNS selection button 712d. The paid code display area 712 also displays a code discard button 712f. Users can use the paid two-way communication service by having the camera 17 of the remote control device 1 read the paid code 712e. Users can also transmit the paid code 712e to other users sharing the virtual room by sending the URL displayed in the URL display field 712g via email or SNS. 【0059】 Furthermore, in this embodiment, by operating the SNS selection button 712d, it is possible to easily transmit the paid code 712e to the other user sharing the virtual room. The SNS selection button 712d is provided for each type of SNS. By operating the desired SNS selection button 712d, the user can launch the SNS application and send a URL to obtain the paid code 712e. In addition, by entering a title to be transmitted to the other user in the title input field 712a, the entered title can be displayed when the other user obtains the paid code 712e. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the paid code 712e has an expiration date. The purchased paid code can be discarded by operating the code discard button 712f. 【0060】 In the My Code screen (paid) display process shown in Figure 6, if the SNS selection button is operated (S310: Yes), the mobile terminal launches the selected SNS app (S311) and sends a URL to the SNS app to obtain the paid code 712e (S312). 【0061】 The screen display on the mobile device that obtained the paid code 712e via an SNS app, etc., is the same as in the case of the free code as explained in Figure 10, so the explanation is omitted here. On the other hand, if the code discard button 712f shown in Figure 8(C) is operated (S313:Yes), the paid code 712e is discarded. Specifically, when the code discard button 712f is operated, a command to discard the paid code is sent to the management server 51, and the management server 51 executes the discard process for the paid code 712e it manages. 【0062】 The paid code 712d obtained in Figure 8(C) can be viewed and managed by operating the reservation list button 71c on the main screen in Figure 7(A). If the purchase code list button 71c displayed in Figure 7(A) is operated during the screen display process in Figure 4 (S104:Yes), the purchase code list display process (S105) is executed. 【0063】 Figure 9(A) shows the purchase code list screen (unused state), and Figure 9(B) shows the purchase code list screen (used state). Figure 9(A) is the screen before using a paid code, and the code-related information display field 71h and the back button 71m are displayed. The code-related information display field 71h displays related information 71i and the code display button 71k. The related information 71i displays the title entered in the title input field 712a in Figure 8(C), the usage status of the paid code (unused), and the expiration date of the paid code. 【0064】 When the code display button 71k is pressed, the toll code 712e displayed in the toll code display area of ​​Figure 8(C) is displayed on the display unit 71 (not shown). Also, when the back button 71m is pressed (S106: Yes), the user returns to the main screen of Figure 7(A) (S101). 【0065】 On the other hand, by using a paid code to receive a two-way communication service, that paid code is considered used. Figure 9(B) shows the screen after a paid code has been used, with the code-related information display area 71h and the back button 71m displayed. The code-related information display area 71h displays related information 71i and the delete button 71n. 【0066】 The related information 71i displays the title entered in the title input field 712a in Figure 8(C), the usage status (used), and the period during which the two-way communication service was used. When the delete button 71n is pressed, the code-related information display field 71h for the paid code for which the delete button 71n was pressed is removed from the purchase code list screen of the display unit 71. 【0067】 Thus, in this embodiment, it is possible to perform various management tasks on paid codes, such as checking their contents or displaying them, using the purchase code list screen. 【0068】 The acquisition and management of free and paid codes have been explained above. Users will use the acquired free and paid codes to receive the two-way communication service. Figure 11 is a flowchart showing the two-way communication process according to this embodiment. The user starts the two-way communication process in the karaoke machine 2 program by selecting a menu displayed on the remote control device 1. When the two-way communication process starts, the reading instruction screen shown in Figure 12 is displayed on the touch panel monitor 11 of the remote control device 1 (S401). The reading instruction screen displays how to read the code (2D code) acquired by the user. 【0069】 In this embodiment, the user displays the acquired code (free code or paid code) on a mobile device such as a smartphone. In addition to using the code displayed on the mobile device, a printed copy of the code can also be used. The camera 17 provided on the remote control device 1 reads the code displayed on the mobile device. Code reading is initiated by operating the read button 112. 【0070】 When the reading button 112 is operated on the reading instruction screen shown in Figure 12, the code reading screen shown in Figure 13 is displayed (S402). On this code reading screen, the video captured by the camera 17 is displayed on the touch panel monitor 11. The touch panel monitor 11 displays the code reading range 113, and the user adjusts the relative positions of the mobile device and the remote control device 1 so that the code displayed on the mobile device is displayed within this code reading range 113. 【0071】 When the code is displayed within the code reading range 113 and recognized by the remote control device 1, the remote control device 1 reads the code information contained in the code (S403). The remote control device 1, via the program of the karaoke device 2, checks with the management server 51 whether the read code information is valid or not (S404). The program of the karaoke device 2 receives information regarding the code information from the management server 51, and if it receives confirmation that the code information is valid (S405: Yes), it executes processing according to the information indicating whether the code is free or paid, which is included in the information regarding the code information from the management server 51 (S407). 【0072】 On the other hand, if the management server 51 receives a message indicating that the code information is invalid (S405: No), an error message is displayed on the touch panel monitor 11 of the remote control device 1 (S406), and the bidirectional communication process is terminated. 【0073】 If the karaoke machine 2 is using a free code (S407: free), the karaoke machine 2 establishes a communication connection with the first server 52a (S408). As mentioned above, the first server 52a, which performs processing related to the bidirectional communication service using the free code, performs the processing necessary to start bidirectional communication, such as assigning a virtual room, but does not perform video and audio communication between the karaoke machines 2. Therefore, video and audio communication is performed in a peer-to-peer format between the karaoke machines 2 without going through the first server 52a (S409). 【0074】 After communication begins, connecting to the virtual room (S410) initiates bidirectional communication between the karaoke machines 2 participating in the virtual room. Note that the bidirectional communication service using the free code is limited to 3 locations (n ​​terminals) for connection. Therefore, if a fourth karaoke machine 2 attempts to establish a bidirectional communication connection, the connection will be rejected. 【0075】 Figure 14 shows the display on monitor 41 when using the two-way communication service (free or paid). In the state shown in Figure 14, there are two locations (two karaoke machines 2 participating in the two-way communication service). Figure 14(A) shows the monitor 41 on the side where the karaoke machine 2 is performing music playback processing. 【0076】 Monitor 41 displays an image display area (other party) 411 showing video transmitted from the other party's karaoke system, and an image display area (self) 412 showing self-images captured by the camera 17 on the remote control device 1 or a camera installed in the room of the store. In addition, the monitor 41 on the side performing the music playback process displays the lyrics 413. Furthermore, the sound input from the other party's singing microphones 43a, 43b, or the microphone 18 on the remote control device 1 is emitted from the speaker 42. 【0077】 Figure 14(B) shows the monitor 41 on the side listening to the singing. The monitor 41 on the listening side also displays the image display area (other person) 411 and the image display area (self) 412. In this embodiment, the monitor 41 on the listening side does not display the lyrics 413. By not displaying the lyrics 413, it is possible to enjoy the singing in the image display area (other person) 411 without being obstructed by the display of the lyrics 413. Alternatively, from the perspective of enjoying karaoke together, the lyrics 413 may be displayed on the listening side's monitor 41. 【0078】 Thus, in this two-way communication service, it becomes possible to hear the video and audio of the connected party, and to enjoy conversations and karaoke together. Figure 14 illustrates the appearance of the monitor 41 in a two-way communication service between two locations. In the case of three or more locations, the corresponding number of image display fields (partners) 411 will be displayed. If a termination operation is performed using a user interface such as the remote control device 1 during two-way communication using a free code (S411: Yes), the two-way communication connection will be terminated (S417). 【0079】 On the other hand, in the case of two-way communication using a paid code (S407: paid), the program of the karaoke device 2 establishes a communication connection with the second server 52b (S412). In this embodiment, after connecting to the second server 52b, the paid code is considered used. The karaoke device 2 notifies the management server 51 that the paid code has been used and records the start date and time of use of the paid code. 【0080】 As mentioned above, the second server 52b, which performs processing related to the paid two-way communication service, performs processing necessary for initiating two-way communication, such as assigning virtual rooms, and also performs video and audio communication between the karaoke devices 2. Therefore, video and audio communication between the karaoke devices 2 is performed via the second server 52b (S413). 【0081】 After communication begins, connecting to the virtual room (S414) initiates bidirectional communication between the karaoke machines 2 participating in the virtual room. Note that in the bidirectional communication service using a paid code, a limit is set on the number of locations (terminals) corresponding to the purchased paid code. Therefore, if a karaoke machine 2 (n+1) attempts to establish a bidirectional communication connection, exceeding the set limit, the bidirectional communication connection for the (n+1)th karaoke machine 2 will be rejected. 【0082】 The behavior of the monitor 41 for the two-way communication service in the case of a paid code is the same as in Figures 14(A) and 14(B), so the explanation is omitted here. When two-way communication is using a paid code, the two-way communication connection is terminated (S417) when an termination operation is performed using the user interface of the remote control device 1 or the like (S415: Yes), or when the validity period of the paid code expires (the termination time arrives). When the two-way communication connection is terminated, the karaoke device 2 notifies the management server 51 that two-way communication using the paid code has ended. The management server 51 records the date and time when the paid code has been used up. 【0083】 Although the two-way communication system of this embodiment has been described above, the present invention can employ various modifications in addition to the embodiments described above. Various examples are explained below. 【0084】 [First variation] In the embodiment described above, when using a free code, the number of connectable locations (terminals) was limited to three. Therefore, if an attempt was made to establish a bidirectional communication connection exceeding the number of connectable locations, the karaoke machine 2 that was newly attempting to connect would be rejected. Alternatively, if an attempt was made to establish a bidirectional communication connection exceeding the number of connectable locations, the user could purchase a paid code, which would allow the karaoke machine 2 to establish a bidirectional communication connection without rejection. 【0085】 For example, if a connection is refused, a switching notification process will be displayed on the karaoke machine 2, the remote control device 1, or the mobile terminal that provided the free code, informing the user that the service will switch to a paid service using a paid code. The user will then purchase a paid code using their mobile terminal, karaoke machine 2, or remote control device 1, and by having the remote control device 1 read the purchased code, the switching process to switch to the paid two-way communication service will be executed. 【0086】 [Second variation] In the embodiment described above, the paid code was marked as used immediately after use began. However, the paid code may also be marked as used after a predetermined period of time (for example, 10 minutes) has elapsed since the paid code was used and two-way communication was utilized. With this configuration, for example, if two-way communication service cannot be fully received due to a network line malfunction, it becomes easier to take measures such as changing the karaoke machine 2 by moving to another room in the same store. 【0087】 [Third variation] In the embodiment described above, two forms of bidirectional communication services, a free code and a paid code, were employed, with the peer-to-peer bidirectional communication service using the first server 52a being provided free of charge. This peer-to-peer bidirectional communication service using the first server 52a may also be made a paid service. In that case, the fee for the peer-to-peer bidirectional communication service using the first server 52a may be set lower than the fee for the bidirectional communication service using the second server 52b. 【0088】 [Fourth variation] In the embodiment described above, a two-way communication service between karaoke devices 2 was explained. Not only karaoke devices 2, but various other terminals can be used as the terminal for the two-way communication service. These terminals can include personal computers, game consoles, smartphones, tablets, and other devices. 【0089】 [Fifth variation] In the above-described embodiment, the two-way communication connection was terminated when the validity period of the paid code expired (the expiration time arrived). Alternatively, notification of the expiration of the paid period may be sent a predetermined time before the expiration of the paid code's validity period, and an operation to extend the validity period may be accepted. 【0090】 [Sixth variation] In the embodiment described above, when the code discard button 712f was operated, a command to discard the paid code was sent to the management server 51, and the management server 51 executed the discard process for the paid code 712e that it was managing. Changes to the number of connection locations and time may be accepted before the purchased paid code is used. Specifically, a setting change button may be provided in the code-related information display field 71h shown in Figure 9(A), and changes to the number of connection locations and time of the purchased code may be accepted, and the difference may be billed or refunded. Alternatively, an extension of the validity period may be accepted. In this case, a fee for the extension will be charged. 【0091】 The two-way communication system of this embodiment has been described above. The two-way communication system of the above embodiment is configured to have at least various terminals such as a karaoke device 2 that perform two-way communication. Furthermore, the program that is executed on the various terminals such as the karaoke device 2 and realizes two-way communication also falls within the scope of the present invention. [Explanation of Symbols] 【0092】 1: Remote control device 71c: Purchase code list button 2(a~k): Karaoke machine 71d: Logout button 6: Management computer 71e: Back button 10a: Control unit 71f: Time selection button 10b: Memory 71g: Payment button 10c: Video control unit 71h: Code-related information display area 10d: Acoustic control unit 71i: Related information 10e: Video RAM 71k: Code display button 11: Touch panel monitor 71m: Back button 11a: Display unit 71n: Delete button 11b: Touch panel 71o: Message display field for the other party 12: Operation Processing Unit 71p: Self-Message Display Area 13: Control Panel 71q: Title 14: Speaker 71r: Free Code 16: Wireless LAN communication section 71s: URL display field 17: Camera 71t: SNS selection button 18: Microphone 71u: List of participating stores button 20: Control Unit 110(a~c): Access Point 21: Control panel 110c: Access point 22: Operation processing unit 112: Read button 24: LAN communication unit 113: Code reading range 25: Acoustic control unit 120(a~c): Router 26: HDD 121(a~c): Optical modem 27: Memory 413: Lyrics 28: Video RAM 711: Free code display area 29: Video playback section 711a: Title input field 30: Video control unit 711b: Free code 31: Touch panel monitor 711c: URL display field 31a: Display unit 711d: SNS selection button 31b: Touch panel 711e: Code change button 41(a~k): Monitor 712: Paid code display area 42: Speaker 712a: Title input field 43a, 43b: Microphone for singing 712b: Paid code display field 51: Management Server 712c: Code Issuance Button 52a: Server 1 712d: SNS selection button 52b: Second server 712e: Paid code 71: Display unit 712f: Code discard button 71a: My Code (Free) button 712g: URL display field 71b: My Code (Paid) button

Claims

[Claim 1] A two-way communication system that enables two-way communication of audio and video between multiple karaoke machines, A selection process in which the user chooses either the first service or the second service, which has a different usage fee than the first service. The system includes a code display process that executes a predetermined program on the user's mobile device, obtains a code for either the first service or the second service, and displays the obtained code. The first service process involves having the camera of a remote control device connected to the karaoke machine read the code of the first service, thereby enabling two-way communication via the first service. By having the camera of the remote control device connected to the karaoke machine read the code of the second service, two-way communication via the second service is enabled, and the second service processing, which sets the usage status of the code of the second service to "used," is also made possible. The first service is limited to n or fewer karaoke devices that can be connected to the network. The second service is limited to (n+1) or more karaoke devices that can be connected to the network. Two-way communication system. [Claim 2] A two-way communication system that enables two-way communication of audio and video between multiple karaoke machines, The system allows the user to select either the first or second service. The first service is limited to n or fewer karaoke devices that can be connected to the network. The second service has a limit of (n+1) or more karaoke devices that can be connected to the network. In the first service, if there are karaoke machines requesting connections exceeding the limit, a switching notification process is performed to notify users already connected to the first service to switch to the second service. In response to user actions, a switching process is performed to switch from the first service to the second service. A two-way communication system.

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