Method and device for providing artist gift message

Abstract

The present invention relates to a method for providing a gift message from an artist terminal to a fan terminal, the method using a message transmission / reception server. The method for providing a gift message comprises the steps, performed by the message transmission / reception server, of: transmitting, to the fan terminal, a gift message received from the artist terminal; displaying the gift message using a gift icon; and when the gift message is selected on the fan terminal, displaying content included in the gift message.

Description

Method and device for providing artist gift messages

[0001] The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for providing an artist gift message, and more specifically, to a method and apparatus for providing an artist gift message that generates and provides the artist's gift message in a message transmission and reception system between an artist and a plurality of fans following the artist.

[0002] With the rise of fandom-based platform services in recent years, real-time or non-real-time communication features between artists and fans have been gaining attention. Traditionally, features have been provided that allow fans to send messages to artists, as well as for artists to send announcements or replies to fans collectively. These features have contributed to strengthening the solidarity of the fandom and encouraging fan participation.

[0003] However, conventional messaging services have the following limitations. First, the format of messages delivered to fans is mostly limited to text or simple images, resulting in a lack of content diversity and emotional delivery. Second, the ability for artists to create and deliver customized messages to individual or group fans was limited, restricting the provision of special experiences to fans. Third, there was a lack of features to structure specific messages in a way that encourages fan participation, or to incorporate reward or event elements into the messages themselves.

[0004] Accordingly, there is a need for technology that enables artists to connect with fans more emotionally by generating and providing gift messages including voice, video, and text, and allows fans to form an emotional connection with the artist by receiving and viewing them.

[0005] The method and device for providing artist gift messages according to an embodiment of the present invention are intended to increase fandom activities of fans.

[0006] In addition, the method and device for providing artist gift messages according to an embodiment of the present invention are intended to increase event elements in the transmission and reception of messages between a plurality of fans and artists.

[0007] However, the technical problem that this embodiment aims to solve is not limited to the technical problem described above, and other technical problems may exist.

[0008] As a technical means for achieving the aforementioned technical problem, a method for providing a gift message according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises the steps of: a message transmitting / receiving server transmitting a gift message received from an artist terminal to a fan terminal; a step of displaying the gift message as a gift icon; and a step of displaying the content included in the gift message when the gift message is selected at the fan terminal.

[0009] In addition, the content according to the embodiment of the present invention includes at least one of an image, voice, video, or text message input by an artist.

[0010] Additionally, when a gift message according to an embodiment of the present invention is set as a secret gift message, the method includes the step of a message transmission / reception server providing a hint corresponding to the secret gift message to a fan terminal, and the step of displaying content only when the correct answer entered from the fan terminal matches the secret code.

[0011] In addition, the hint according to the embodiment of the present invention is a hint phrase directly entered by the artist, and the secret code is a text-based answer string set by the artist.

[0012] In addition, the step of displaying content according to an embodiment of the present invention further includes the step of a message transmitting and receiving server dynamically controlling whether to display gift messages or secret gift messages, the number of such messages, and the viewing time based on the fan's activity information.

[0013] In addition, the fan activity information according to an embodiment of the present invention includes at least one of the frequency of message reception at the fan terminal, artist content consumption history, number of times artist concerts were viewed, number of times artist albums were purchased, and number of times artist communities were accessed.

[0014] Additionally, a gift message providing device according to an embodiment of the present invention includes at least one memory and at least one processor that performs a message transmission and reception service by executing an application stored in the memory, and the processor includes the steps of transmitting a gift message received from an artist terminal to a fan terminal, displaying the gift message as a gift icon, and displaying the corresponding content when the gift message is selected at the fan terminal.

[0015] In addition, the processor of the computing device according to an embodiment of the present invention further performs the step of providing a hint corresponding to the secret gift message to a fan terminal when the gift message is set as a secret gift message, and displaying content only when the correct answer entered from the fan terminal matches the secret code.

[0016] In addition, the hint according to the embodiment of the present invention is a hint phrase directly entered by the artist, and the secret code is a text-based answer string set by the artist.

[0017] Additionally, the processor according to an embodiment of the present invention further performs the step of dynamically controlling whether to display or the number of gift messages or secret gift messages, and the viewing time, based on fan activity information, wherein the fan activity information includes at least one of the frequency of message reception at the fan terminal, artist content consumption history, number of artist concert viewings, number of artist album purchases, and number of artist community accesses.

[0018] The method and device for providing artist gift messages according to an embodiment of the present invention can increase fandom activities of fans.

[0019] In addition, the method and device for providing artist gift messages according to an embodiment of the present invention can increase event elements in the transmission and reception of messages between a plurality of fans and artists.

[0020] FIG. 1 is an exemplary diagram showing a communication connection of a message transmission and reception service providing device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0021] FIG. 2 is a configuration diagram of a message transmission and reception service relay server according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0022] FIG. 3 is a configuration diagram of a terminal according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0023] FIG. 4 is a conceptual diagram illustrating the functions of a processor according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0024] FIG. 5 is a flowchart of a method for providing a gift message according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0025] FIG. 6 is a flowchart of a method for providing a secret gift message according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0026] FIG. 7 is an example of a gift message display icon according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0027] FIG. 8 is an exemplary diagram of a secret gift message receiving interface according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] FIG. 9 is an example diagram of a secret gift message setting interface according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] FIG. 10 is an exemplary diagram of a secret gift message receiving interface according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] FIG. 11 is an example diagram of a secret code input interface according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] FIG. 12 is an example diagram of a secret gift message unlocking interface according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] FIG. 13 is a conceptual diagram illustrating the functions of a processor according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] FIG. 14 is a conceptual diagram of data processing for storing fan messages according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] FIG. 15 is a data flow diagram for storing artist messages according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] FIG. 16 is a data flow diagram for message inquiry of a fan terminal according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] FIG. 17 is a data flow diagram for message inquiry of a fan terminal according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0037] FIG. 18 is a data flow diagram for querying messages of an artist terminal according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] FIG. 19 is a flowchart of a fan message storage method according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] FIG. 20 is a flowchart of an artist message storage method according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0040] FIG. 21 is a flowchart of a message update method according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] FIG. 22 is a flowchart of a message update method according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] FIG. 23 is a flowchart of a message update method according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0043] Embodiments of the present invention are described below with reference to the attached drawings so that those skilled in the art can easily implement the invention. However, the present invention may be embodied in various different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein. Furthermore, in order to clearly explain the present invention in the drawings, parts unrelated to the explanation have been omitted, and similar parts throughout the specification are denoted by similar reference numerals.

[0044] Throughout the specification, when a part is described as being "connected" to another part, this includes not only cases where they are "directly connected," but also cases where they are "electrically connected" with other components interposed between them. Furthermore, when a part is described as "including" a certain component, this means that, unless specifically stated otherwise, it does not exclude other components but may include additional components.

[0045] In addition, the attached drawings are intended only to facilitate understanding of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, and the technical concept disclosed in this specification is not limited by the attached drawings; it should be understood that all modifications, equivalents, and substitutions included within the concept and technical scope of the present invention are included.

[0046] Terms including ordinal numbers, such as first, second, etc., may be used to describe various components, but said components are not limited by said terms. These terms are used solely for the purpose of distinguishing one component from another.

[0047] When it is stated that one component is "connected" or "connected" to another component, it should be understood that while it may be directly connected or connected to that other component, there may also be other components in between. On the other hand, when it is stated that one component is "directly connected" or "directly connected" to another component, it should be understood that there are no other components in between.

[0048] A singular expression includes a plural expression unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0049] In this application, terms such as “comprising” or “having” are intended to specify the existence of the features, numbers, steps, actions, components, parts, or combinations thereof described in the specification, and should be understood as not precluding the existence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, actions, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

[0050] Hereinafter, a message transmission and reception service providing device according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. 1.

[0051] FIG. 1 is an exemplary diagram showing a communication connection between a message transmission and reception service relay server (100) and a terminal (200) according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0052] Referring to FIG. 1, a message transmission and reception service relay server (100) is connected to a terminal (200) via a communication network. At this time, the message transmission and reception service relay server (100) refers to a device for providing message transmission and reception between users using a fan platform, social network service, etc., and may correspond to a fan platform server, social network service server, etc. The terminal (200) includes an artist terminal (200-1) used by celebrities, artists, etc., and a fan terminal (200-2) used by fans following celebrities, artists, etc. The terminal (200) may refer to a device that displays messages and notifications received from the message transmission and reception service relay server (100) to the user.

[0053] A message transmission and reception service relay server (100) can generate and provide messages and notification lists to users on fan platforms, social network services, etc. At this time, rather than simply providing messages and notifications to users, it can provide personalized messages and notification lists to users based on filtering information for each user.

[0054] Additionally, the message transmission and reception service relay server (100) can provide voice, photos, videos, text, etc., entered by the artist to one or more fan terminals in the form of a gift message. The gift message can be classified into a general gift message, the content of which can be viewed without entering a separate secret code, and a secret gift message, the content of which can be viewed only when a separate secret code set by the artist is entered. The specific configuration of the message transmission and reception service relay server (100) will be explained in detail with reference to FIGS. 2 and FIGS. 4, which will be described later.

[0055] The terminal (200) may refer to any type of handheld-based wireless communication device, such as a laptop, desktop, laptop, a wireless communication device with guaranteed portability and mobility, or a smartphone, tablet PC, etc., equipped with a web browser.

[0056] In addition, the communication network illustrated in FIG. 1 can be implemented as a wired network such as a Local Area Network (LAN), Wide Area Network (WAN), or Value Added Network (VAN), or as any type of wireless network such as a mobile radio communication network or a satellite communication network.

[0057] Hereinafter, the structure of a message transmission and reception service relay server according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. 2.

[0058] FIG. 2 is a structural diagram illustrating the structure of a message transmission and reception service relay server (100) according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0059] Referring to FIG. 2, the message transmission and reception service relay server (100) includes a communication module (110), memory (120), and a processor (140), and may further include a database (130). The communication module (110) performs information transmission and reception with terminals (200, 201). The communication module (110) may include a device including hardware and software necessary to transmit and receive signals, such as control signals or data signals, using a wired or wireless connection with another network device.

[0060] The memory (120) stores a message transmission and reception program. The name of the message transmission and reception program is set for convenience of explanation and does not limit the function of the program by the name itself. The memory (120) can store at least one of the following: information and data input to the communication module (110), information and data required for functions performed by the processor (140), and data generated by the execution of the processor (140).

[0061] The term "memory" (120) should be interpreted as a collective term for a non-volatile storage device that retains stored information even when power is not supplied, and a volatile storage device that requires power to retain stored information. Additionally, the memory (120) can perform the function of temporarily or permanently storing data processed by the processor (140). The memory (120) may include magnetic storage media or flash storage media in addition to a volatile storage device that requires power to retain stored information, but the scope of the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0062] The database (130) can store data related to artist information, user (fan) information, subscription information, artist messages, fan messages, and private messages converted and provided for each fan user. The database (130) may constitute a part of the memory (120), but is not necessarily located inside the message transmission and reception service relay server (100), and may be connected to the outside of the message transmission and reception service relay server (100) to perform data transmission and reception using a communication connection.

[0063] Additionally, the database (130) may be configured to store message data on an artist-by-artist and user (fan)-by-user basis. The detailed configuration of the database (130) will be described in detail with reference to FIG. 13, which will be described later.

[0064] The processor (140) is configured to execute a message transmission and reception program in memory (120). The processor (140) may include various types of devices for controlling and processing data. The processor (140) may refer to a data processing device embedded in hardware having a physically structured circuit to perform a function expressed by code or instructions included in a program. In one example, the processor (140) may be implemented in the form of a microprocessor, a central processing unit (CPU), a processor core, a multiprocessor, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), etc., but the scope of the invention is not limited thereto.

[0065] The processor (140) is configured to execute a message transmission and reception program to perform the following functions and procedures.

[0066] The processor (140) can provide fan messages input from a plurality of fan terminals (200-2) to an artist terminal (200-1). Additionally, the processor (140) can provide artist messages input from the artist terminal (200-1) to a plurality of fan terminals (200-2).

[0067] At this time, the processor (140) can generate a private message in which a specific keyword or string included in a message written by the artist is converted into a nickname set by each of one or more fan accounts and provide it to the fan terminal (200-2).

[0068] Additionally, the processor (140) can perform the function of receiving information regarding the gift message from the artist terminal (200-1) when the artist account composes a gift message, and transmitting the received gift message to one or more fan terminals (200-2).

[0069] In this case, the gift message may include at least one piece of content among images, voice, video, and text messages entered by the artist.

[0070] A pre-set gift message icon is displayed on the fan terminal (200-2) that receives the artist's gift message, and when the gift message icon is selected using the fan terminal (200-2), the content included in the gift message is activated and provided to the fan.

[0071] Additionally, if the gift message is set as a secret gift message, the artist account can use the artist terminal (200-1) to set a hint and a secret code for the secret gift message.

[0072] When a secret gift message is sent to the fan terminal (200-2), a pre-set secret gift message icon is displayed on the fan terminal (200-2). When a fan account selects the secret gift message icon using the fan terminal (200-2), a hint and secret code input field set by the artist account are displayed.

[0073] A fan account can enter a secret code using a fan terminal (200-2). The processor (140) can control the display of the content included in the secret gift message only when the secret code entered by the fan terminal (200-2) matches the secret code pre-set by the artist account.

[0074] In this case, the hint and secret code may be phrases and strings directly entered by the artist, and once a secret gift message is unlocked, the content can be viewed without entering an additional secret code.

[0075] Additionally, the processor (140) can set the fan's grade based on the fan's activity information, and can dynamically control the number of gift messages or secret gift messages displayed, the viewing time, etc., according to the fan's grade.

[0076] In this case, fan activity information may include various fan interaction data such as message reception frequency, artist content consumption history, number of concerts attended, number of album purchases, and community access frequency.

[0077] FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of a terminal (200).

[0078] Referring to FIG. 3, the terminal (200) includes a memory (220), an input / output module (230), and a processor (240), and may further include a communication module (210).

[0079] The communication module (210) can perform information transmission and reception with an external database or an external device. Here, the external device may be the message transmission and reception service relay server (100) described above. The memory (220) stores a message transmission and reception program. The name of the message transmission and reception program is set for convenience of explanation and does not limit the function of the program by the name itself.

[0080] The input / output module (230) can receive information, data, etc. transmitted from the outside to the terminal (200), or output information, data, etc. held by the terminal (200) to the outside. For example, the input / output module (230) may include a display, a touchpad, etc. The processor (240) executes a message transmission / reception program stored in the memory (220). Additional descriptions of the communication module (210), memory (220), and processor (240) will be replaced by the descriptions of the communication module (110 in FIG. 2), memory (120 in FIG. 2), and processor (140 in FIG. 2) described above with reference to FIG. 2.

[0081] Additionally, the processor (240) is configured to execute a message transmission and reception program to perform the following functions and procedures.

[0082] The processor (240) can transmit artist messages or fan messages generated at the terminal (200) to the message transmission and reception service relay server (100). Additionally, the processor (240) can receive and display artist messages, fan messages, private messages, gift messages, secret gift messages, feeds, alarms, interfaces, etc., stored and generated at the message transmission and reception service relay server (100).

[0083] The processor (240) supports the generation of a gift message including an image, voice, video, text message, etc., input by the artist.

[0084] When an artist sets a gift message as a secret message, the processor (240) receives a hint phrase and a correct answer string (secret code) corresponding to the message and is configured to be able to send them together with the message.

[0085] The processor (240) sends the generated gift message to the message transmission and reception service relay server (100) to request that it be delivered to a specific fan or fan group.

[0086] The processor (240) receives feedback data, such as whether a fan has viewed the message or entered the correct answer, provided by the message transmission and reception service relay server (100), so that the artist can check the status of interaction with their fans.

[0087] The processor (240) displays a gift message received from the message transmission / reception service relay server (100) in the form of a gift icon on the user interface, and controls the display of the content included in the message when the user selects the icon.

[0088] When the message is set as a secret gift message, the processor (240) provides the fan with a hint provided by the message transmission / reception service relay server (100), and transmits the correct answer string entered by the fan to the server to verify whether the answer matches. Only when the answer matches is the content displayed.

[0089] The processor (240) can collect user activity data and provide various activity information, such as message viewing frequency, content viewing history, community activity history, and concert ticket reservation history, locally or to a server. This information is used to control the conditions for displaying gift messages on the server.

[0090] The processor (240) receives policy information, such as viewing availability time and viewing limit, provided by the message transmission and reception service relay server (100), and can control the user interface to display gift message content only when the conditions are satisfied.

[0091] Hereinafter, the function and operation of the processor (140) according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to FIG. 4.

[0092] FIG. 4 is a conceptual diagram illustrating the functions of a message transmission and reception service relay server according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0093] Referring to FIG. 4, the processor (140) may include a gift message management module (141), a secret gift message management module (142), and a content viewing control module (143) to implement a gift message provision function. Each module performs the following functions.

[0094] The gift message management module (141) performs a series of functions, including processing a gift message received from the artist terminal (200-1) and delivering it to the fan terminal (200-2).

[0095] The gift message management module (141) receives data regarding a gift message written and sent by an artist, and identifies and stores the content included in the gift message (e.g., text, image, voice, video, etc.).

[0096] The gift message management module (141) transmits the received gift message to the fan terminal (200-2), and the fan terminal (200-2) configures the data so that the message is visually displayed in the form of a gift message icon.

[0097] The gift message management module (141) systematically stores the history of message transmission and reception by managing metadata such as the recipient of the message (specific fan or fan group), the time of receipt, and the content format.

[0098] The secret gift message management module (142) performs functions such as verifying conditions for viewing content and providing hints when the gift message is set as a secret message.

[0099] The secret gift message management module (142) receives and stores a hint phrase and a secret code (correct answer string) corresponding to the message when the artist sets the gift message as a secret message.

[0100] The secret gift message management module (142) transmits the received secret gift message to the fan terminal (200-2), and the fan terminal (200-2) configures the data so that the message is visually displayed in the form of a secret gift message icon.

[0101] When a secret gift message management module (142) selects (activates) a secret gift message on a fan terminal (200-2), it provides hint information set by the artist for the secret gift message.

[0102] The secret gift message management module (142) receives the correct answer string input from the fan terminal (200-2), determines whether it matches the stored secret code, and grants permission to view the content of the secret gift message only if the correct answer matches.

[0103] The secret gift message management module (142) can enhance security and log traceability by recording the secret code verification results and the number of input attempts.

[0104] The content viewing control module (143) performs the function of controlling whether and how the content is displayed when a gift message is selected on the fan terminal.

[0105] The content viewing control module (143) checks the conditions for viewing the content (e.g., whether the correct answer matches, whether the fan activity criteria are met, etc.) when a gift message or a secret gift message is selected on the fan terminal (200-2).

[0106] The content viewing control module (143) dynamically controls whether a gift message or a secret gift message can be viewed, the number of items displayed, and the viewing time based on the fan's activity information (e.g., frequency of message reception, content consumption history, number of concert viewings, etc.).

[0107] When content is displayed, the content viewing control module (143) applies an appropriate decoding and rendering method according to the type of content (text, image, video, etc.) and transmits it to the fan terminal.

[0108] The content viewing control module (143) ensures the scarcity and security of content provision by controlling that the content is not displayed when the set viewing conditions are not satisfied or when the time limit is exceeded.

[0109] In this way, the processor (140) can systematically and organically perform the overall flow of the present invention, from sending and receiving gift messages and processing secret messages to controlling content viewing, through modularized components. This modular separation can contribute to improving the maintainability and scalability of the system.

[0110] Hereinafter, a method for providing a gift message according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to FIG. 5.

[0111] FIG. 5 is a flowchart of a method for providing a gift message according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0112] Referring to FIG. 5, a method for providing a gift message according to an embodiment of the present invention includes an artist gift message setting step (S100), a gift message display step (S200), and a gift message content display step (S300).

[0113] In the artist gift message setting step (S100), the artist can use the artist terminal (200-1) to create a gift message containing content such as voice, video, image, text, etc., and send the created gift message to a fan account set as the recipient.

[0114] Accordingly, the artist terminal (200-1) transmits data regarding the generated gift message to the message transmission / reception service relay server (100). The message transmission / reception service relay server (100) receives and stores information regarding the gift message and can also store and manage metadata regarding the gift message (content type, transmission target, creation time, etc.).

[0115] In the gift message display step (S200), the message transmission / reception service relay server (100) transmits the stored gift message to the fan terminal (200-2) connected to the fan account that is the recipient. Then, the fan terminal (200-2) that receives the gift message controls the display of the gift message in the form of a gift message icon on the user interface that displays messages between the artist account and the fan account, so that the gift message is visually displayed in the form of a gift.

[0116] In the gift message display step (S200), the message transmission and reception service relay server (100) can transmit a gift message to a fan terminal (200-2) including status information of the gift message, and the fan terminal (200-2) can distinguish between gift messages that the fan has not yet checked and gift messages that the fan has checked, or adjust the number of icons or the sorting order.

[0117] In the gift message content display step (S300), when a fan user selects a gift message icon on a fan terminal (200-2), the fan terminal (200-2) transmits a request to look up the content of the selected gift message to a message transmission / reception service relay server (100).

[0118] The message transmission and reception service relay server (100) provides content for the gift message to the fan terminal (200-2) when the gift message corresponds to a general gift message rather than a secret gift message. The fan terminal (200-2) decodes the received content and displays it on a screen, or provides the content included in the gift message to the fan user in an appropriate manner for each content, such as audio and video playback.

[0119] Hereinafter, a method for providing a secret gift message according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to FIG. 6.

[0120] FIG. 6 is a flowchart of a method for providing a secret gift message according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0121] Referring to FIG. 6, a method for providing a secret gift message according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a secret gift message setting step (S110), a secret gift message display step (S210), a hint display step (S220), a secret code input step (S230), and a secret gift message content display step (S310).

[0122] In the secret gift message setting step (S110), the artist terminal (200-1) generates a gift message containing content such as text, images, voice, and video entered by the artist, and at the same time provides a user interface that can set the message as a secret gift message.

[0123] In the secret gift message setting step (S110), the artist terminal (200-1) can directly input a secret code (text string) to be used as a hint phrase and answer that the fan must solve to view the content when the artist sets it as a secret message, and this information is transmitted along with the message to the message transmission and reception service relay server (100).

[0124] The message transmission and reception service relay server (100) stores secret gift messages and related information received from the artist terminal (200-1) and performs data processing to transmit to the fan terminal (200-2).

[0125] In the secret gift message display step (S210), the message transmission / reception service relay server (100) transmits the secret gift message to the fan terminal (200-2) that is the recipient, and the fan terminal (200-2) displays the secret gift message using a secret gift message icon that is set to be distinguished from a regular message and a regular gift message.

[0126] In this case, the secret gift message icon can be distinguished from the gift message icon by adding a lock icon or by using blurring effects. Additionally, the content itself is not displayed on the secret gift message icon, and the user must go through subsequent procedures to view the content.

[0127] In the hint display step (S220), when the user of the fan terminal (200-2) selects the secret gift message icon, the message transmission / reception service relay server (100) provides a hint phrase corresponding to the secret gift message to the fan terminal (200-2).

[0128] The fan terminal (200-2) displays an interface that allows the fan to input a hint phrase and a secret code, thereby enabling the fan to check the hint and deduce the secret code set by the artist.

[0129] In the secret code input step (S230), the fan inputs a string that is determined to be the correct answer based on the hint into the secret code input field displayed on the fan terminal, and the secret code entered using the fan terminal (200-2) is transmitted to the message transmission and reception service relay server (100).

[0130] The message transmission and reception service relay server (100) compares whether the secret code entered using the fan terminal (200-2) matches the secret code set by the artist, and if they match, grants the fan terminal (200-2) permission to view the content, and if they do not match, blocks the content or grants an opportunity to re-enter. In addition, the message transmission and reception service relay server (100) may manage the number of correct answer attempts, input history, etc., as logs.

[0131] In the secret gift message content display step (S310), when the message transmission / reception service relay server (100) confirms that the secret code match, it transmits the content for the corresponding secret gift message to the fan terminal (200-2). The fan terminal (200-2) outputs or plays the content on the UI in a form that matches the received content type (text, image, voice, etc.).

[0132] In the secret gift message content display step (S310), the message transmission and reception service relay server (100) may additionally apply content viewing policies, such as the number of times the content is viewed and the time the content is viewed, according to the fan's activity information.

[0133] Hereinafter, a gift message and secret gift message providing interface will be described with reference to FIGS. 7 to 12.

[0134] Figure 7 is an example of a gift message icon.

[0135] As illustrated in FIG. 7, when a gift message is received, a preset gift message icon is displayed. If the user selects the gift message icon, the content included in the gift message may be displayed instead of the gift message icon.

[0136] Figure 8 is an example of a gift message setting interface.

[0137] As illustrated in FIG. 8, the artist can input and transmit messages and content to be transmitted to the fan terminal (200-2) using the artist terminal. When the artist inputs messages and content to be transmitted to the fan terminal (200-2), the messages and content are not transmitted immediately, and the checkbox to send as a gift message is activated.

[0138] If you check the "Send as gift message" checkbox and then send the message, the message and its contents may be sent as a gift message.

[0139] Additionally, if you check the Send Gift Message checkbox, the Set Secret Code checkbox is additionally activated.

[0140] When the secret code setting checkbox is checked, a secret code setting window is activated, allowing hints and secret codes to be set as shown in FIG. 9.

[0141] When an artist uses an artist terminal (200-1) to input a hint and a secret code into a secret code setting window and saves it, a secret code for the corresponding message and content is set.

[0142] The secret code can be modified until the corresponding message and content are transmitted.

[0143] When the message and content are transmitted after setting a secret code, the message is set as a secret gift message and provided to the fan terminal (200-2).

[0144] When a fan terminal (200-2) receives a secret gift message, a secret gift message icon is displayed as in FIG. 10, and when the secret gift message icon is selected, a hint set as in FIG. 11 is displayed, and a secret code input window is activated to enter a secret code.

[0145] If you enter the secret code and select Confirm, the content of the secret gift message is activated based on whether the entered secret code matches the set secret code. At this time, the number of times the content can be viewed and the viewing time may be limited based on the fan's activity information.

[0146] When the secret code entered by the fan matches the secret code set by the artist, the content and message for the secret gift message are activated as shown in Fig. 12. Additionally, when the secret gift message is unlocked, a preset special effect or video may be played.

[0147] If the secret code entered by the fan does not match the secret code set by the artist, the message "Incorrect secret code" is displayed, and the number of secret code entries and the time limit may be restricted based on the fan's activity information.

[0148] Hereinafter, the operation of a processor (140) and a database (130) for generating a private message and transmitting and receiving messages according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 13 to 23.

[0149] FIG. 13 is a conceptual diagram illustrating the functions of a message transmission and reception service relay server according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0150] Referring to FIG. 13, the processor (140) may be configured to perform the functions of a control unit (1410) and a message queue unit (not shown) described later. Additionally, the database (130) may be composed of a database per DM (Direct Message) (1310), an individual database (1320), and a sub-database (1330).

[0151] The control unit (1410) performs the function of a controller to store artist messages and fan messages generated from the artist terminal (200-1) and fan terminal (200-2) in the database (130), or to read messages from the database (130) for private chat updates. The message queue unit (142) performs the function of publishing messages to publish artist messages or fan messages stored in the database (130) to recipients.

[0152] The DM-specific database (1310) can store messages by private chat unit or by artist unit. In this case, a private chat unit may refer to a unit of a chat room where messages are sent and received between a fan user and an artist. The individual database (1320) can be constructed to store messages by user unit, with a database corresponding to each user. Accordingly, the first individual database (1321) to the Nth individual database (1321) are formed to correspond to the number of users.

[0153] Additionally, the individual database (1320) may be formed to include an artist sending database (1322) for storing the artist's sending messages and an artist receiving database (1323) for storing messages received by the artist.

[0154] The sub-database (133) may be formed to include a subscription information storage unit (1331) that stores information about fan users following the artist, and a message body storage unit (1332) that stores the content of artist messages and fan messages.

[0155] Below, the interaction between the processor (140) and the database (130) that occurs when providing a message transmission and reception service between an artist and a fan is described in detail.

[0156] The processor (140) can receive a fan message generated from a first fan terminal among a plurality of fan terminals (200-2). The processor (140) controls the storage of the fan message in a first individual database corresponding to the first fan terminal among a plurality of individual databases (1320). Additionally, when the fan message is stored in the first individual database, the processor (140) can generate a message feed for the fan message and provide it to the artist terminal (200-1).

[0157] Additionally, the processor (140) can receive an artist message from the artist terminal (200-1). When the processor (140) receives an artist message, it can control the storage of the artist message and artist information in the DM-specific database (1310). When the artist message is stored in the DM-specific database (1310), the processor (140) generates a message feed provided to a plurality of fan terminals and transmits the message feed to the first fan terminal.

[0158] When a first fan terminal requests a private chat update, the processor (140) receives a request for a private chat message update from the first fan terminal. Then, the processor (140) generates a private message corresponding to the first fan terminal based on the fan account information and artist message corresponding to the first fan terminal. The processor (140) transmits the fan message stored in the first database and the generated private message to the first fan terminal. At this time, the private message may refer to a message in which a specific word or keyword of the message is converted according to the recipient. Additionally, the message feed may include notifications, posts, etc., to inform the recipient of the receipt of the message.

[0159] Additionally, when the processor (140) receives an artist message, it can store the artist message in the DM-specific database (1310) and at the same time convert the artist message into a private message and store it in the individual database (1320).

[0160] Specifically, the processor (140) generates multiple private messages corresponding to each of the multiple fan terminals based on fan account information and artist messages corresponding to each of the multiple fan terminals. Then, the processor (140) stores the multiple private messages in corresponding individual databases based on the fan account information. When the private messages are stored in the individual databases, the processor (140) controls the deletion of artist messages stored in the DM-specific database (1310). Additionally, after the private messages are stored in the individual databases, the processor receives private messages from the individual database (1320), rather than the DM-specific database (1310), and transmits them to the fan terminals.

[0161] That is, when an artist composes a message, the message transmission and reception service relay server (100) generates a private message corresponding to each subscriber fan and stores the private message in an individual database assigned to each user. Therefore, when a user requests to view or update a message, the message is retrieved from the individual database, thereby enabling the message transmission and reception service to be provided quickly to multiple users.

[0162] Additionally, the processor (140) stores artist messages and artist information in a DM-specific database (1310), and when a preset reference time elapses, deletes the artist messages stored in the DM-specific database (1310), receives private messages from the individual database (1320), and transmits the private messages to the fan terminal.

[0163] At this time, the database (1310) for each DM can be formed based on NoSQL (Not Only SQL), and the individual database (1320) can be formed based on SQL (Structured query language).

[0164] Accordingly, the DM-specific database (1310) has a non-relational database structure and can store unstructured data. Additionally, the individual database (1320) has a relational database structure and can store user-specific message data by creating a DB (Database) table for each user and applying a user-specific DB table filter.

[0165] As the individual database (1320) is configured using SQL, the write speed is slower and the read speed is faster compared to the DM-specific database (1310). On the other hand, the DM-specific database (1310) has a faster write speed and a slower read speed compared to the individual database (1320).

[0166] The message transmission and reception service relay server (100) can increase the speed of providing message transmission and reception services to multiple users by providing private messages stored using an individual database (1320). Additionally, while private messages are being stored in the individual database (1320), the operation during the time messages are being stored in the individual database can be supplemented by providing private messages using a DM-specific database (1310).

[0167] Hereinafter, the specific data processing process between the processor (140) and the database (130) will be explained in detail with reference to FIGS. 14 to 18 described later.

[0168] FIG. 14 is a data flow diagram for storing fan messages according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0169] Referring to FIG. 14, when a fan user composes and transmits a fan message to an artist, fan message data is transmitted from the fan terminal (200-2) to the control unit (1410) of the message transmission and reception service relay server (100). The fan message data may include at least one of the message content, information about the artist to whom the message is received, and the fan's artist subscription information.

[0170] The control unit (1410) transmits the received fan message data to the message body storage unit (1332) and requests that the fan message data be stored in the message body storage unit (1332). The message body storage unit (1332) stores the fan message data, and when the storage of the fan message data is completed, it generates a fan message ID corresponding to the fan message and responds the fan message ID to the control unit (1410).

[0171] The control unit (1410) that receives the fan message ID requests the storage of fan message data in the individual database (1320). At this time, the individual database (1320) refers to a database allocated per user. Accordingly, when a fan message is received at the first fan terminal, the storage of fan message data is requested in the first individual database (1321) allocated to the first fan terminal. Additionally, the fan message data stored in the individual database (1320) may include the fan message ID and subscription information.

[0172] When fan message data is stored in an individual database (1320), the individual database (1320) sends a response to the control unit (1410) indicating that the fan message data storage is complete.

[0173] The control unit (1410), having received a response from the individual database (1320) confirming the completion of saving fan message data, requests the subscription information storage unit (1331) to look up the fan's subscription information. Specifically, a message queue unit (not shown) included in the control unit (1410) requests the subscription information storage unit (1331) to look up the subscription information based on the fan's subscriber ID information.

[0174] The subscription information storage unit (1331) that receives a request to look up subscription information responds to the control unit (1410) with a Direct Message (DM) ID corresponding to the subscriber ID information. At this time, the DM ID may correspond to the ID of a private chat room or artist information.

[0175] The control unit (1410), having received a DM ID from the subscription information storage unit (1331), requests the storage of fan message data in the artist reception database (1323) of the artist receiving the fan message based on the DM ID. At this time, the fan message data stored in the artist reception database (1323) may include fan message ID and DM ID information.

[0176] When the storage of fan message data in the artist receiving database (1323) is complete, the artist receiving database (1323) responds to a request to publish a fan message to the control unit (1410).

[0177] A control unit (1410) that receives a request to publish a fan message from an artist receiving database (1323) generates a fan feed for an artist to be sent to the artist receiving the fan message, and transmits the fan feed for an artist to the terminal (200) of the artist receiving the fan message.

[0178] Accordingly, when a fan sends a message to an artist, the fan's message is stored in the artist's receiving database. Additionally, if the artist wishes to view fan messages by checking the artist's fan feed, the private chat relay server (100) can read the fan messages based on the fan message data stored in the artist's receiving database and provide them to the artist's terminal.

[0179] Hereinafter, the data processing sequence for storing artist messages is described with reference to FIG. 15.

[0180] FIG. 15 is a data flow diagram for storing artist messages according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0181] Referring to FIG. 15, when an artist user composes and transmits an artist message to a fan user, artist message data is transmitted from the artist terminal (200-1) to the control unit (1410) of the message transmission / reception service relay server (100). The artist message data may include at least one of message content, message recipient information, and DM ID.

[0182] The control unit (1410) transmits the received artist message data to the message body storage unit (1332) and requests that the fan message data be stored in the message body storage unit (1332). The message body storage unit (1332) stores the artist message data, and when the storage of the artist message data is completed, it generates an artist message ID corresponding to the artist message and responds the artist message ID to the control unit (1410).

[0183] The control unit (1410) that receives the artist message ID requests the storage of artist message data in the artist sending database (1322). At this time, the artist sending database (1322) is an individual database assigned to the artist, and refers to a database where messages written by the artist for sending are stored. Additionally, the artist sending database (1322) may be configured by integrating with the artist receiving database (1323) or configured separately. Furthermore, the artist message data stored in the artist receiving database (1322) may include data regarding one or more of the artist message ID and DM ID.

[0184] When artist message data is stored in the artist receiving database (1322), the artist receiving database (1322) sends a response indicating that the artist message data storage is complete to the control unit (1410).

[0185] The control unit (1410), having received a response from the artist receiving database (1322) indicating completion of saving artist message data, requests the saving of artist message data in the DM-specific database (1310). At this time, the artist message data saved in the DM-specific database (1320) includes data regarding one or more of the artist message ID and DM ID.

[0186] When the artist message data is saved in the DM-specific database (1310), the DM-specific database (1310) sends a response to the control unit (1410) indicating that the artist message data has been saved.

[0187] The control unit (1410), having received a response from the DM-specific database (1310) indicating completion of saving artist message data, requests the subscription information storage unit (1331) to retrieve subscriber list information corresponding to the DM ID. Specifically, a message queue unit (not shown) included in the control unit (1410) requests the subscription information storage unit (1331) for a list of subscriber IDs subscribing to the artist based on the DM ID.

[0188] When the control unit (1410) receives a list of subscriber IDs from the subscription information storage unit (1331), the control unit generates a private message for each subscriber based on the artist message data and the list of subscriber IDs. Additionally, the control unit (1410) requests the storage of the private message corresponding to each subscriber's individual database (1321).

[0189] At this time, requesting storage of a private message in an individual database (1321) may mean that the control unit (1410) stores the content of the private message in the message body storage unit (1332) and requests storage of data for one or more of the private message ID, DM ID, and subscriber ID received in response from the message body storage unit (1332).

[0190] Accordingly, when an artist sends a message to a fan, a private message for each fan is stored in the fan's individual database (1321). Additionally, if a fan wishes to view a message, the private chat relay server (100) can read the private message data stored in the individual database (1321) and provide it to the fan terminal.

[0191] Hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 16, the data processing process for the case where a fan user requests a lookup of a private chat before the private message is stored in an individual database will be described in detail.

[0192] FIG. 16 is a data flow diagram when querying a message of a fan according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0193] Referring to FIG. 16, when a fan requests to view a private chat or artist message, the control unit (1410) receives a request to view the private chat from the fan terminal (200-2). At this time, the request to view the private chat includes the fan's subscriber ID information.

[0194] When the control unit (1410) receives a private chat lookup request from the fan terminal (200-2), the control unit (1410) requests a message lookup corresponding to the subscriber ID from the individual database (1320) corresponding to the fan terminal (200-2) or the fan account (200-2).

[0195] The individual database (1320) may respond with a list of stored message IDs in response to a message lookup request. At this time, the message that the individual database (1320) responds to the control unit (1410) may include one or more of a fan message ID and a private message ID. However, before the private message is stored in the individual database (1320), the message ID that the individual database (1320) responds to the control unit (1410) includes only a fan message ID.

[0196] Additionally, the control unit (1410) requests the subscription information storage unit (1331) to look up a DM ID corresponding to the fan's subscriber ID. Upon receiving the request to look up a DM ID, the subscription information storage unit (1331) responds to the control unit (1410) with the DM ID stored corresponding to the subscriber ID.

[0197] The control unit (1410) that receives the DM ID requests the DM-specific database (1310) to look up the message corresponding to the DM ID. The DM-specific database (1310) that receives the message lookup request responds to the control unit (1410) with the artist message ID stored corresponding to the DM ID.

[0198] Accordingly, the control unit (1410) receives a fan message ID from an individual database (1320) and receives an artist message ID from a DM-specific database (1310). Then, based on the received fan message ID and artist message ID, the control unit (1410) requests message body information corresponding to the fan message ID and artist message ID from the message body storage unit (1332). Accordingly, the message body storage unit (1332) responds with message information corresponding to the received fan message ID and artist message ID.

[0199] The control unit (1410) can transmit the received fan message and artist message to the fan terminal (200-2). Additionally, the control unit (1410) can convert the artist message into a private message based on the fan's subscription information and transmit it to the fan terminal (200-2).

[0200] Hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 17, the data processing process for the case where a fan user requests to view a private chat after a private message has been stored in an individual database will be explained in detail.

[0201] FIG. 17 is a data flow diagram when querying a message of a fan according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0202] Referring to FIG. 17, when the storage of private messages in individual databases (1320) is completed, the control unit (1410) requests the deletion of completed artist messages in the DM-specific database (1310). A completed artist message refers to an artist message or artist message ID that has been converted into a private message.

[0203] By deleting the artist message ID stored in the DM-specific database (1310), it is possible to prevent duplicate sending of artist messages and private messages to fan terminals.

[0204] After the deletion of the artist message ID from the DM-specific database (1310) is completed, when a fan terminal (200) requests to look up a private chat or artist message, the control unit (1410) receives a request to look up a private chat from the fan terminal (200-2). At this time, the request to look up a private chat includes the fan's subscriber ID information.

[0205] When the control unit (1410) receives a private chat lookup request from the fan terminal (200-2), the control unit (1410) requests a message lookup corresponding to the subscriber ID from the individual database (1320) corresponding to the fan terminal (200-2) or the fan account (200-2).

[0206] The individual database (1320) can respond with a list of stored message IDs in response to a message lookup request. At this time, the message that the individual database (1320) responds to the control unit (1410) may include both fan message IDs and private message IDs.

[0207] Accordingly, the control unit (1410) receives a fan message ID and a private message ID from an individual database (1320). Then, based on the received fan message ID and private message ID, the control unit (1410) requests message body information corresponding to the fan message ID and private message ID from the message body storage unit (1332). Accordingly, the message body storage unit (1332) responds with message information corresponding to the received fan message ID and private message ID.

[0208] The control unit (1410) can transmit the received fan message and private message to the fan terminal (200-2). Therefore, the message transmission and reception service relay server (100) performs only the operation of reading messages from the individual database (1320) corresponding to the fan terminal (200-2), even if multiple fan terminals (200-2) request a lookup of the private chat. Accordingly, a fast processing speed can be maintained even if multiple users request a lookup of messages.

[0209] Hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 18, the data processing process for when an artist requests a lookup of a private chat will be described in detail.

[0210] FIG. 18 is a data flow diagram when an artist views a message according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0211] Referring to FIG. 18, when an artist requests to view a private chat, the control unit (1410) receives a request to view the private chat from the artist terminal (200-1). At this time, the request to view the private chat includes DM ID information.

[0212] When the control unit (1410) receives a request to look up a private chat from the artist terminal (200-2), the control unit (1410) requests the artist sending database (1322) to look up a message corresponding to the DM ID. Accordingly, the artist sending database (1322) responds with a list of artist message IDs stored corresponding to the artist's DM ID.

[0213] Additionally, the control unit (1410) requests the artist receiving database (1323) to look up messages corresponding to the DM ID. Accordingly, the artist receiving database (1323) responds with a list of stored fan message IDs corresponding to the artist's DM ID.

[0214] Accordingly, the control unit (1410) receives an artist message ID list from the artist sending database (1322) and a fan message ID list from the artist receiving database (1323). Based on the received artist message ID list and fan message ID list, the control unit (1410) requests a message information lookup from the message body storage unit (1332).

[0215] Accordingly, the message body storage unit (1332) responds to the control unit (1410) with message information corresponding to the artist message ID list and the fan message ID list. Upon receiving the artist message and fan message information, the control unit (1410) updates the message content to the artist terminal (200).

[0216] Hereinafter, a method for providing a message transmission and reception service will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 19 to 23.

[0217] FIG. 19 is a flowchart of a fan message storage method according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0218] Referring to FIG. 19, a fan message storage method sent by a fan user to an artist in a message transmission and reception service according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a fan message reception step (S110), a fan message storage step (S120), and a message feed provision step (S130).

[0219] Specifically, in the fan message reception step (S1100), when a fan user composes and transmits a fan message to be sent to an artist, fan message data is transmitted from the fan terminal (200-2) to the control unit (1410) of the message transmission / reception service relay server (100). The fan message data may include at least one of the message content, information about the artist to whom the message is to be received, and the fan's artist subscription information.

[0220] In the fan message storage step (S1200), the control unit (1410) stores the received fan message data in an individual database (1320). Specifically, the control unit (1410) transmits the received fan message data to the message body storage unit (1332) and requests that the fan message data be stored in the message body storage unit (1332). Then, the message body storage unit (1332) stores the fan message data, and when the storage of the fan message data is completed, it generates a fan message ID corresponding to the fan message and responds the fan message ID to the control unit (1410).

[0221] The control unit (1410) that receives the fan message ID requests the storage of fan message data in the individual database (1320). At this time, the individual database (1320) refers to a database allocated per user. Accordingly, when a fan message is received at the first fan terminal, the storage of fan message data is requested in the first individual database (1321) allocated to the first fan terminal. Additionally, the fan message data stored in the individual database (1320) may include the fan message ID and subscription information.

[0222] In the message feed provision step (S1300), the control unit (1410) generates a message feed to be sent to the artist who is the recipient of the fan message and sends it to the artist terminal (200). Specifically, if fan message data is stored in the individual database (1320), the individual database (1320) sends a response to the control unit (1410) indicating that the fan message data storage is complete.

[0223] The control unit (1410), having received a response from the individual database (1320) confirming the completion of saving fan message data, requests the subscription information storage unit (1331) to look up the fan's subscription information. Specifically, a message queue unit (not shown) included in the control unit (1410) requests the subscription information storage unit (1331) to look up the subscription information based on the fan's subscriber ID information.

[0224] The subscription information storage unit (1331) that receives a request to look up subscription information responds to the control unit (1410) with a Direct Message (DM) ID corresponding to the subscriber ID information. At this time, the DM ID may correspond to the ID of a private chat room or artist information.

[0225] The control unit (1410), having received a DM ID from the subscription information storage unit (1331), requests the storage of fan message data in the artist reception database (1323) of the artist receiving the fan message based on the DM ID. At this time, the fan message data stored in the artist reception database (1323) may include fan message ID and DM ID information.

[0226] When the storage of fan message data in the artist receiving database (1323) is complete, the artist receiving database (1323) responds to a request to publish a fan message to the control unit (1410).

[0227] A control unit (1410) that receives a request to publish a fan message from an artist receiving database (1323) generates a fan feed for an artist to be sent to the artist receiving the fan message, and transmits the fan feed for an artist to the terminal (200) of the artist receiving the fan message.

[0228] Accordingly, when a fan sends a message to an artist, the fan's message is stored in the artist's receiving database. Additionally, if the artist wishes to view fan messages by checking the artist's fan feed, the private chat relay server (100) can read the fan messages based on the fan message data stored in the artist's receiving database and provide them to the artist's terminal.

[0229] Hereinafter, a method for saving artist messages will be explained with reference to FIG. 20.

[0230] FIG. 20 is a flowchart of an artist message storage method according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0231] Referring to FIG. 20, the artist message storage method includes an artist message receiving step (S2100), an artist message storage step in an individual database (S2200), an artist message storage step in a DM-specific database (S2300), a private message creation step (S2400), and a private message storage step (S2500).

[0232] In the artist message reception step (S2100), when an artist user composes and transmits an artist message to a fan user, artist message data is transmitted from the artist terminal (200-1) to the control unit (1410) of the message transmission / reception service relay server (100). The artist message data may include at least one of message content, message recipient information, and DM ID.

[0233] In the step of storing artist messages in individual databases (S2200), the control unit (1410) stores the received artist message data in the artist sending database (1322) among the artist's individual databases (1320).

[0234] Specifically, the control unit (1410) transmits the received artist message data to the message body storage unit (1332) and requests that the fan message data be stored in the message body storage unit (1332). The message body storage unit (1332) stores the artist message data, and when the storage of the artist message data is completed, it generates an artist message ID corresponding to the artist message and responds the artist message ID to the control unit (1410).

[0235] The control unit (1410) that receives the artist message ID requests the storage of artist message data in the artist sending database (1322). At this time, the artist sending database (1322) is an individual database assigned to the artist, and refers to a database where messages written by the artist for sending are stored. Additionally, the artist sending database (1322) may be configured by integrating with the artist receiving database (1323) or configured separately. Furthermore, the artist message data stored in the artist receiving database (1322) may include data regarding one or more of the artist message ID and DM ID.

[0236] When artist message data is stored in the artist receiving database (1322), the artist receiving database (1322) sends a response indicating that the artist message data storage is complete to the control unit (1410).

[0237] In the step of storing artist messages in the DM-specific database (S2300), the control unit (1410) stores the received artist messages in the DM-specific database (1310).

[0238] Specifically, the control unit (1410) requests the storage of artist message data in the DM-specific database (1310). The DM-specific database (1310) stores artist messages or message IDs for each DM ID. At this time, the artist message data stored in the DM-specific database (1320) includes data regarding one or more of the artist message ID and DM ID.

[0239] In the private message generation step (S2400), the control unit (1410) generates a private message to be sent to a fan user who subscribes to the artist based on the received artist message.

[0240] Specifically, the control unit (1410), having received a response from the DM-specific database (1310) indicating completion of saving artist message data, requests the subscription information storage unit (1331) to retrieve subscriber list information corresponding to the DM ID. Specifically, a message queue unit (not shown) included in the control unit (1410) requests the subscription information storage unit (1331) for a list of subscriber IDs subscribing to the artist based on the DM ID.

[0241] When the control unit (1410) receives a list of subscriber IDs from the subscription information storage unit (1331), the control unit generates a private message for each subscriber based on the artist message data and the list of subscriber IDs.

[0242] In the private message storage step (S2500), the control unit (1410) stores the generated private message in the corresponding individual database (1320).

[0243] Specifically, private messages are generated for each fan user who subscribes to the artist. Additionally, an individual database (1321) is assigned to each fan user. Accordingly, the control unit (1410) stores the generated private messages in each fan user's individual database (1321).

[0244] At this time, requesting storage of a private message in an individual database (1321) may mean that the control unit (1410) stores the content of the private message in the message body storage unit (1332) and requests storage of data for one or more of the private message ID, DM ID, and subscriber ID received in response from the message body storage unit (1332).

[0245] Accordingly, when an artist sends a message to a fan, a private message for each fan is stored in the fan's individual database (1321). Additionally, if a fan wishes to view a message, the private chat relay server (100) can read the private message data stored in the individual database (1321) and provide it to the fan terminal.

[0246] Hereinafter, a method for updating private chat for fan users will be described with reference to FIGS. 21 and FIGS. 22.

[0247] FIG. 21 is a flowchart of a private chat update method for a fan terminal according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0248] Referring to FIG. 21, the method for updating a private chat in response to a fan's private chat update and inquiry request includes a step of receiving a private chat update request (S3100), a step of confirming the storage of a private message (S3200), a step of querying an individual database (S3400), a step of querying a database per DM (S3320), and a private chat update step (S3500).

[0249] In the step of receiving a private chat update request (S3100), if a fan requests to view a private chat or artist message, the control unit (1410) receives a private chat view request from the fan terminal (200-2). At this time, the private chat view request includes the fan's subscriber ID information.

[0250] In the private message storage confirmation step (S3200), it is checked whether the private message is being stored in the individual database (1321) or whether storage is complete.

[0251] While private messages are being stored in individual databases (1321), the artist messages are read from the DM-specific database instead of the individual database to update the private chat.

[0252] Specifically, if the private message is not stored in the individual database (1321), the individual database lookup step (S3310), the DM-specific database lookup step (S3320), and the private message creation step (S3330) are performed.

[0253] In the individual database lookup step (S3310), the control unit (1410) requests a message lookup corresponding to the subscriber ID from the individual database (1320) corresponding to the fan terminal (200-2) or fan account (200-2).

[0254] The individual database (1320) may respond with a list of stored message IDs in response to a message lookup request. At this time, the message that the individual database (1320) responds to the control unit (1410) may include one or more of a fan message ID and a private message ID. However, before the private message is stored in the individual database (1320), the message ID that the individual database (1320) responds to the control unit (1410) includes only a fan message ID. Therefore, in the individual database lookup step (S3310), fan message data written by a fan can be received.

[0255] In the DM-specific database lookup step (S3320), the control unit (1410) requests the subscription information storage unit (1331) to look up the DM ID corresponding to the fan's subscriber ID. Upon receiving the DM ID lookup request, the subscription information storage unit (1331) responds to the control unit (1410) with the DM ID stored corresponding to the subscriber ID.

[0256] The control unit (1410) that receives the DM ID requests the DM-specific database (1310) to look up the message corresponding to the DM ID. The DM-specific database (1310) that receives the message lookup request responds to the control unit (1410) with the artist message ID stored corresponding to the DM ID.

[0257] Accordingly, the control unit (1410) receives a fan message ID from an individual database (1320) and receives an artist message ID from a DM-specific database (1310). Then, based on the received fan message ID and artist message ID, the control unit (1410) requests message body information corresponding to the fan message ID and artist message ID from the message body storage unit (1332). Accordingly, the message body storage unit (1332) responds with message information corresponding to the received fan message ID and artist message ID.

[0258] The control unit (1410) can transmit the received fan message and artist message to the fan terminal (200-2).

[0259] Additionally, in the private message generation step (S3330), the control unit (1410) can convert the artist message into a private message based on the fan's subscription information and transmit it to the fan terminal (200-2).

[0260] If the private message is saved in the individual database (1320) in the private message saving confirmation step (S3200), only the individual database lookup step (S3400) is performed to update the fan's private chat.

[0261] In the individual database lookup step (S3400), the control unit (1410) requests the deletion of completed artist messages from the DM-specific database (1310). A completed artist message refers to an artist message converted into a private message or an artist message ID.

[0262] By deleting the artist message ID stored in the DM-specific database (1310), it is possible to prevent duplicate sending of artist messages and private messages to fan terminals.

[0263] After the deletion of the artist message ID from the DM-specific database (1310) is completed, if a fan terminal (200) requests a lookup of a private chat or artist message, in the individual database lookup step (S3400), the control unit (1410) requests a lookup of the message corresponding to the subscriber ID from the individual database (1320) corresponding to the fan terminal (200-2) or fan account.

[0264] The individual database (1320) can respond with a list of stored message IDs in response to a message lookup request. At this time, the message that the individual database (1320) responds to the control unit (1410) may include both fan message IDs and private message IDs.

[0265] Accordingly, the control unit (1410) receives a fan message ID and a private message ID from an individual database (1320). Then, based on the received fan message ID and private message ID, the control unit (1410) requests message body information corresponding to the fan message ID and private message ID from the message body storage unit (1332). Accordingly, the message body storage unit (1332) responds with message information corresponding to the received fan message ID and private message ID.

[0266] In the private chat update step (S3500), the control unit (1410) transmits the received fan message and private message to the fan terminal (200-2) to update the private chat of the fan terminal (200-2).

[0267] Accordingly, the message transmission and reception service relay server (100) performs only the operation of reading messages from the individual database (1320) corresponding to the fan terminal (200-2), even if multiple fan terminals (200-2) request a lookup of private chats. As a result, a fast processing speed can be maintained even if multiple users request a lookup of messages.

[0268] Additionally, the private chat update method of a fan terminal according to an embodiment of the present invention may be applied by changing the private chat storage confirmation step (S3200) to a reference time elapsed confirmation step (S3210).

[0269] In the step of checking for the elapsed reference time (S3210), the control unit (1410) determines that the private message is being stored in the individual database (1321) before the preset reference time has elapsed. Accordingly, if the control unit (1410) receives an artist message and requests an update of the private chat from the fan terminal (200) before the preset reference time has elapsed, it performs the individual database lookup step (S3310), the DM-specific database lookup step (S3320), and the private message creation step (S3330).

[0270] That is, the control unit (1410) retrieves artist message information stored in the DM-specific database (1310) after receiving an artist message and before a preset reference time has elapsed, and generates a private message based on the artist message and provides it to the fan terminal (200).

[0271] Additionally, in the step of checking for the elapsed reference time (S3210), the control unit (1410) determines that the private message has been saved to the individual database (1321) when the preset reference time has elapsed. Accordingly, the control unit (1410) receives the artist message, and after the preset time has elapsed, if the fan terminal (200) requests an update of the private chat, it performs the message reception step (S3400) in the individual database.

[0272] That is, the control unit (1410) provides fan messages and private messages stored in the individual database (1320) to the fan terminal (200) after a preset reference time has elapsed since receiving the artist message.

[0273] Hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 23, a method for updating a private chat when an artist requests a private chat inquiry will be described in detail.

[0274] FIG. 23 is a flowchart of a private chat update method of an artist terminal according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0275] Referring to FIG. 23, the private chat update method of an artist terminal (200) includes a private chat update request reception step (S4100), an artist sending database lookup step (S4200), an artist receiving database (S4300), and a private chat update step (S4400).

[0276] In the private chat update request reception step (S4100), when an artist requests to view a private chat, the control unit (1410) receives a private chat view request from the artist terminal (200-1). At this time, the private chat view request includes DM ID information.

[0277] In the artist sending database lookup step (S4200), the control unit (1410) requests the artist sending database (1322) to look up messages corresponding to the DM ID. Accordingly, the artist sending database (1322) responds with a list of artist message IDs stored corresponding to the artist's DM ID.

[0278] In the artist receiving database lookup step (S4300), the control unit (1410) requests the artist receiving database (1323) to look up messages corresponding to the DM ID. Accordingly, the artist receiving database (1323) responds with a list of stored fan message IDs corresponding to the artist's DM ID.

[0279] Accordingly, the control unit (1410) receives an artist message ID list from the artist sending database (1322) and a fan message ID list from the artist receiving database (1323). Based on the received artist message ID list and fan message ID list, the control unit (1410) requests a message information lookup from the message body storage unit (1332).

[0280] Accordingly, the message body storage unit (1332) responds to the control unit (1410) with message information corresponding to the artist message ID list and the fan message ID list. Then, in the private chat update step (S4400), the control unit (1410), having received the artist message and fan message information, updates the message content to the artist terminal (200).

[0281] The foregoing description of the present invention is for illustrative purposes only, and those skilled in the art will understand that other specific forms can be easily modified without altering the technical spirit or essential features of the present invention. Therefore, the embodiments described above should be understood as illustrative in all respects and not restrictive. For example, each component described as a single unit may be implemented in a distributed manner, and components described as distributed may likewise be implemented in a combined form.

[0282] The scope of the present invention is defined by the claims set forth below rather than by the detailed description above, and all modifications or variations derived from the meaning and scope of the claims and equivalent concepts thereof should be interpreted as being included within the scope of the present invention.

[0283] The mode for carrying out the invention is the same as the best mode for carrying out the invention described above.

[0284] The present invention has industrial applicability as it is applicable to the entertainment industry and messenger-related industries.

Claims

A method for providing a gift message from an artist terminal to a fan terminal using a message sending and receiving server, The above message transmission and reception server transmits a gift message received from the artist terminal to the fan terminal, The step of displaying the above gift message as a gift icon, and When the gift message is selected at the fan terminal, a step of displaying the content included in the gift message A method for providing a gift message, including In paragraph 1, A method for providing a gift message, characterized in that the above content includes at least one of an image, voice, video, or text message entered by an artist. In paragraph 1 or 2, If the above gift message is set as a secret gift message, the step of the message sending / receiving server providing a hint corresponding to the secret gift message to the fan terminal, and A step of displaying the content only when the correct answer entered from the fan terminal matches the secret code A method for providing a gift message, including In paragraph 3, A method for providing a gift message, characterized in that the above hint is a hint phrase directly entered by the artist. In paragraph 4, A method for providing a gift message, characterized in that the above secret code is a text-based answer string set by an artist. In paragraph 5, The step of displaying the content included in the gift message is, The above message sending and receiving server dynamically controls whether to display or the number of the gift message or secret gift message, and the viewing time, based on the fan's activity information. A method of providing a gift message that further includes In paragraph 6, A method for providing a gift message, wherein the above-mentioned fan activity information includes at least one of the frequency of message reception at the fan terminal, artist content consumption history, number of times artist concerts were viewed, number of times artist albums were purchased, and number of times artist communities were accessed. As a device for providing a gift message from an artist terminal to a fan terminal, At least one memory, and It includes at least one processor that performs a message transmission and reception service by executing at least one application stored in the memory, and The instructions of the above processor are, A step of transmitting a gift message received from the artist terminal to a fan terminal, The step of displaying the above gift message as a gift icon, and When the gift message is selected at the fan terminal, a step of displaying the content included in the gift message A computing device including In paragraph 8, A computing device characterized in that the above content includes at least one of an image, voice, video, or text message input by an artist. In Article 8 or 9, The instructions of the above processor are, If the above gift message is set as a secret gift message, the step of providing a hint corresponding to the secret gift message to the fan terminal, and A step of displaying the content only when the correct answer entered from the fan terminal matches the secret code A computing device that further includes In Paragraph 10, A computing device characterized in that the above hint is a hint phrase directly entered by an artist. In Paragraph 11, A computing device characterized by the above secret code being a text-based answer string set by an artist. In Paragraph 12, The instructions of the above processor are, A step of dynamically controlling whether to display or the number of the gift message or secret gift message, and the viewing time, based on the fan's activity information. A computing device that further includes In Paragraph 13, A computing device comprising at least one of the following: the frequency of message reception at the fan terminal, the history of artist content consumption, the number of times artist concerts were viewed, the number of times artist albums were purchased, and the number of times artist communities were accessed.

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