JP7391331B2 - Computer programs, methods and server devices - Google Patents

Description

The technology disclosed in the present application relates to a computer program, method, and server device used for distributing video related to a game from a distributor's terminal device to each viewer's terminal device.

A service called Mirative (Non-Patent Document 1) is known as a service used to distribute videos related to games from a distributor's terminal device to each viewer's terminal device.

With this service, a broadcaster uses a terminal device to create a video containing an avatar animation generated based on behavioral data regarding the broadcaster's movements, and a video containing an avatar animation generated based on operation data regarding the broadcaster's operations. It is possible to distribute video related to the game to the terminal devices of multiple viewers. Note that the above Non-Patent Document 1 is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

"Mirrativ", [online], August 16, 2019, Mirrativ, Inc., [searched on May 7, 2020], Internet (https://apps.apple.com/jp/app/mirrativ -Mirative-Easy game distribution on smartphone/id1028944599)

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Recently, there is a need for a method to encourage users to use services related to video distribution, either as distributors or viewers.

Therefore, some embodiments disclosed in the present application provide a computer program, method, and server device that can induce a user to use a service related to video distribution, either as a distributor or as a viewer.

A computer program according to one aspect includes a first moving image that is executed by at least one processor and includes an animation of an avatar of the distributor generated based on behavioral data regarding the distributor's behavior, or the behavioral data. and a second video related to the game generated based on operation data regarding the distributor's operation using the received web page, to the terminal devices of a plurality of viewers via a communication line, Obtain at least one distribution status information regarding the distribution, extract a specific game object to be controlled from among a plurality of game objects used in the game, and based on the at least one distribution status information, The processor may be operated to calculate control parameters associated with the particular game object.

A computer program according to another aspect provides a first moving image that is executed by at least one processor and includes an animation of an avatar of the distributor generated based on behavioral data regarding the distributor's behavior or the behavior. data and a second video related to the game generated based on the operation data regarding the operation of the distributor using the received web page from the terminal device of the distributor via a communication line, A second video is extracted as a control target from among a plurality of game objects used in the game, and at least one video related to the distribution of the first video or the action data and the second video by the distributor is provided. Based on one piece of distribution status information, the processor can be operated to include a specific game object for which an associated control parameter has been calculated.

According to one aspect, a method is a method performed by at least one processor that executes computer-readable instructions, the processor generating behavioral data regarding the behavior of a broadcaster by executing the instructions. a first video containing an animation of the broadcaster's avatar or the action data generated based on the video, and a second video related to the game generated based on the operation data regarding the broadcaster's operation using the received web page. a step of distributing a video to terminal devices of a plurality of viewers via a communication line; a step of acquiring at least one distribution status information regarding the distribution; and a step of distributing a video to a plurality of game objects used in the game. , and a step of calculating a control parameter related to the specific game object based on the at least one distribution status information.

According to another aspect, the method includes: a method performed by at least one processor executing computer-readable instructions, wherein the processor executes the instructions to generate behavioral data regarding the behavior of a broadcaster. a first video containing an animation of the distributor's avatar or the action data generated based on the game, and a second video related to the game generated based on the operation data regarding the distributor's operation using the received web page. The method includes the step of receiving a video from the distributor's terminal device via a communication line, and the second video is selected as a control target from among a plurality of game objects used in the game. A specific game object that has been extracted and for which related control parameters have been calculated based on at least one distribution status information regarding distribution of the first video or the action data and the second video by the distributor. include".

The server device according to one embodiment includes “at least one processor, and the processor generates a first moving image including an animation of an avatar of the distributor generated based on behavior data regarding the distributor’s behavior or the behavior of the distributor.” data and a second video related to the game generated based on operation data regarding the distributor's operation using the received web page from the distributor's terminal device, and the received first video Alternatively, a server device that causes the at least one processor to function so as to distribute the operation data and the second moving image to terminal devices of a plurality of viewers via a communication line, The second video is extracted as a control target from a plurality of game objects used in the game, and includes at least one video related to the distribution of the first video or the action data and the second video by the distributor. "Includes a specific game object for which related control parameters have been calculated based on one piece of distribution status information."

A server device according to another aspect includes “at least one processor; Distribute the motion data and a second video related to the game generated based on the operation data regarding the distributor's operation using the received web page to the terminal devices of a plurality of viewers via a communication line. A web page including a computer program is transmitted via a communication line to the distributor's terminal device configured to At least one distribution status information related to distribution is acquired, a specific game object to be controlled is extracted from a plurality of game objects used in the game, and based on the at least one distribution status information, the ``operate to calculate control parameters related to a specific game object.''

A method according to yet another aspect is a method performed by at least one processor that executes computer-readable instructions, the processor performing an operation related to an operation of a broadcaster by executing the instructions. A first video including an animation of the distributor's avatar generated based on the data or the motion data, and a first video related to the game generated based on the operation data regarding the distributor's operation using the received web page. 2 of the video from the distributor's terminal device; and the received first video or the motion data, and the second video are transmitted to a plurality of viewers via a communication line. the second moving image is extracted as a control target from among a plurality of game objects used in the game, and the second moving image is extracted as a control target from among a plurality of game objects used in the game, and the second moving image is The game object includes a specific game object for which related control parameters have been calculated based on at least one distribution status information regarding the distribution of the first video or the operation data and the second video.

A method according to yet another aspect is a method performed by at least one processor that executes computer-readable instructions, the processor performing an operation related to an operation of a broadcaster by executing the instructions. A first video including an animation of the distributor's avatar generated based on the data or the motion data, and a first video related to the game generated based on the operation data regarding the distributor's operation using the received web page. A web page containing a computer program is sent to the terminal device of the distributor, which is configured to distribute the video of No. 2 to the terminal devices of multiple viewers via a communication line. The method includes the step of transmitting at least one distribution status information regarding the distribution to the terminal device of the distributor, and transmitting the information from among a plurality of game objects used in the game. , extracting a specific game object to be controlled, and calculating control parameters related to the specific game object based on the at least one distribution status information.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a video distribution system according to an embodiment. FIG. 2 is a block diagram schematically showing an example of the hardware configuration of the terminal device (server device) shown in FIG. FIG. 3 is a block diagram schematically showing an example of the functions of the terminal device shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 4 is a block diagram schematically showing an example of the functions of the server device shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 5A is a flow diagram showing an example of operations performed in the video distribution system shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 5B is a flow diagram showing an example of operations performed in the video distribution system shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of a first video displayed on a terminal device used in the video distribution system shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of a second video displayed on a terminal device used in the video distribution system shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of calculation information included in the information table.

Hereinafter, various embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Note that common components in the drawings are given the same reference numerals. Also, it should be noted that components depicted in one drawing may be omitted from another drawing for convenience of explanation. Furthermore, it should be noted that the attached drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale. Furthermore, the term application may also be referred to as software or a program, as long as it is a set of instructions to a computer that can be combined to achieve a certain result.

1. Configuration of video distribution system In the video distribution system 1 disclosed in the present application, to put it simply, a user who distributes (hereinafter referred to as a "distributor") uses his terminal device to broadcast a first video. The second video can be distributed to the terminal device of a user (hereinafter referred to as a "viewer") who views the video via a communication line. The first video is a video that includes an animation of the distributor's avatar that is generated based on motion data regarding the distributor's actions. Furthermore, the second video is a video related to the game that is generated based on operation data regarding the distributor's operations.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a video distribution system 1 according to an embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the video distribution system 1 includes a plurality of terminal devices 10 connected to a communication line (communication network) not shown, and one or more server devices 20 connected to the communication line. be able to. Each terminal device 10 can be connected to one or more server devices 20 via a communication line.

Note that although FIG. 1 shows, for example, terminal devices 10A to 10D as the plurality of terminal devices 10, one or more terminal devices 10 other than these may be used in the same manner. Similarly, FIG. 1 shows one or more server devices 20, such as a server system 20A (the server system 20A is composed of a plurality of servers as described later) and a server device 20B (web server device 20B). are shown, but one or more server devices 20 other than these may be used as well. Note that the communication line (not shown) can include, without limitation, a mobile phone network, a wireless LAN, a fixed telephone network, the Internet, an intranet, and/or Ethernet (registered trademark), and the like.

Furthermore, in one embodiment, the video distribution system 1 can also include one or more studio units 30 connected to a communication line. Each studio unit 30 may be connected to one or more server devices 20 or multiple terminal devices 10 via a communication line. Although FIG. 1 shows, for example, studio units 30A and 30B as one or more studio units 30, one or more studio units 30 other than these may be used in the same way.

1-1. Terminal device 10
As shown in FIG. 1, the plurality of terminal devices 10 include one or more distributor's terminal device 10 (here, terminal device 10A) and one or more viewer's terminal device 10 (here, Terminal device 10B to terminal device 10D). By having a common configuration, each terminal device 10 can be used as either a terminal device for distributing videos (distributor's terminal device 10) or a terminal device for viewing videos (viewer's terminal device 10). It is also possible. Similarly, a user who uses the video distribution system 1 can be a distributor in one situation and a viewer in another situation.

When each terminal device 10 operates as a terminal device for distributing videos (a distributor's terminal device), each terminal device 10 may be an installed video distribution application (middleware, or a combination of an application and middleware). (Good. The same applies hereafter.) can be executed. Thereby, each terminal device 10 can acquire motion data related to the distributor's motion and generate a first video including an animation of a virtual character (avatar) that is changed according to the acquired data. Furthermore, each terminal device 10 can transmit the first moving image to the server device 20 (server system 20A) via a communication line. Such a first video is distributed from the server device 20 (server system 20A) to the terminal device (viewer's terminal device) 10 for receiving the video via the communication line. Such a viewer's terminal device 10 can receive a video by executing an installed video viewing application (which may be middleware or a combination of an application and middleware; the same applies hereinafter). I can do it.

In addition, when each terminal device 10 operates as a distributor's terminal device, each terminal device 10 executes a browser function incorporated in an installed video distribution application and/or executes an installed web browser application. can do. Thereby, each terminal device 10 can receive a web page (HTML document) from the server device 20 (web server device 20B) and execute a game program included in this web page. By executing this game program, each terminal device 10 can generate a second moving image in which at least one game object is operated based on operation data regarding the distributor's operation.

Further, when each terminal device 10 operates as a distributor's terminal device, the second video generated as described above is transmitted to the server device via a communication line by executing the video distribution application described above. 20 (server system 20A). Such a second video is also transmitted via a communication line from the server device 20 (server system 20A) to a terminal device (viewer's terminal) for receiving the video that executes the installed video viewing application. device) 10.

Furthermore, when each terminal device 10 operates as a distributor's terminal device, by executing the video distribution application described above, each terminal device 10 can receive the first video and/or video distributed by the distributor's terminal device 10. Or gift information indicating that a gift will be given to this distributor from the terminal device 10 of the viewer who views the second video, and/or this distribution via the server device 20 (server system 20A) It is possible to receive comment information indicating that a comment is to be sent to a person. In addition, when each terminal device 10 operates as a distributor's terminal device, by executing the video distribution application described above, the first video and/or Comment information can also be distributed to the terminal device 10 of the viewer viewing the second video via the server device 20 (server system 20A).

On the other hand, when each terminal device 10 operates as a terminal device for viewing a video (viewer's terminal device), by executing the installed video viewing application, the terminal device 10 of the distributor The distributed first video and/or second video can be received via the server device 20 (server system 20A).

Furthermore, when each terminal device 10 operates as a viewer's terminal device, by executing a video viewing application, gift information indicating that a gift will be given to a distributor who distributes a video; /Or, comment information indicating that a comment is to be sent to this distributor is sent to the distributor's terminal device 10 (in FIG. 1, the distributor's terminal device 10A) via the server device (server system 20A). ) can be sent to.

Note that the video distribution application and the video viewing application described above may be installed and executed on each terminal device 10 as one integrated application or as separate applications.

Each terminal device 10 is any terminal device capable of performing such operations, including, but not limited to, a smartphone, a tablet, a mobile phone (feature phone), a personal computer, etc. I can do it.

1-2. Server device 20
FIG. 1 shows a server system 20A and a web server device 20B as examples of one or more server devices 20.

The server system 20A transmits the first video and/or the second video transmitted from each terminal device (terminal device of each distributor) 10 (for example, the terminal device 10A of the distributor in FIG. 1) to each terminal device. (Each viewer's terminal device) 10 (eg, the viewer's terminal devices 10B to 10D in FIG. 1). Furthermore, the server system 20A receives gift information transmitted by each terminal device (terminal device of each viewer) 10 indicating that a gift will be given to a certain distributor, and/or gift information indicating that a gift will be given to a certain distributor. Comment information indicating that a comment is to be sent to the distributor can be sent to the terminal device 10 of the distributor.

In order to perform such operations, the server system 20A, in one embodiment, includes a distribution server device 20a and a distribution server device 20a, which are connected to each other via a communication line (including a wireless line and/or a wired line not shown). It can include a first database (DB) server device 20b, a second DB server device 20c, and a gift/comment API server device 20d.

The distribution server device 20a transmits the first video and/or the second video transmitted from the terminal device 10 of each distributor (for example, the terminal device 10A of the distributor) to the terminal device 10 of each viewer (for example, It can be distributed to the viewers' terminal devices 10B to 10D). Further, the distribution server device 20a receives comment information regarding the first video and/or second video for each viewer's terminal device 10 from each distributor's terminal device 10 via the gift/comment API server device 20d. Then, the comment information can be distributed to each viewer's terminal device 10. Further, the distribution server device 20a receives gift information and/or comment information regarding the first video and/or second video transmitted from each viewer's terminal device 10, and receives the received gift information and/or comment information. Alternatively, comment information can be sent to the gift/comment API server device 20d.

The distribution server device 20a also manages (obtains) distribution status information regarding the distribution by the distributor for the first video transmitted by the terminal device 10 of each distributor, and transfers the distribution status information to the first DB server device. 20b. Furthermore, the distribution server device 20a manages (obtains) distribution status information regarding the distribution by the distributor for the second video transmitted by the terminal device 10 of each distributor, and transfers the distribution status information to the second DB server. It can be stored in the device 20c. Furthermore, the distribution server device 20a reads out the distribution status information inquired from the terminal device 10 of each distributor from the first DB server device 20b and/or the second DB server device 20c, and can be sent to.

The first DB server device 20b receives gift information and/or comment information regarding the first video received from the gift/comment API server device 20d (information transmitted from the terminal device 10 of each viewer and the terminal device of each distributor). 10) can be stored. Furthermore, the first DB server device 20b can store distribution status information regarding the first video received from the distribution server device 20a. Furthermore, the first DB server device 20b can read the distribution status information inquired by the distribution server device 20a, and can transmit the distribution status information to the distribution server device 20a.

The second DB server device 20c receives gift information and/or comment information regarding the second video received from the gift/comment API server device 20d (including information transmitted from the terminal device 10 of each viewer and the terminal device of each distributor). 10) can be stored. Further, the second DB server device 20c can store distribution status information regarding the second video received from the distribution server device 20a. Furthermore, the second DB server device 20c can read the distribution status information queried by the distribution server device 20a, and transmit the distribution status information to the distribution server device 20a.

The gift/comment API server device 20d receives an inquiry from the terminal device 10 of each distributor about gift information and/or comment information regarding the first video and/or second video received from the distribution server device 20a. At the same time (or automatically), gift information/comment information for the distributor can be transmitted to the terminal device 10 of the distributor. Furthermore, the gift/comment API server device 20d includes gift information and/or comment information (information transmitted from each viewer's terminal device 10 and information of each distributor) regarding the first video received from the distribution server device 20a. (including both those sent from the terminal device 10) can be stored in the first DB server device 20b. Furthermore, the gift/comment API server device 20d also provides gift information and/or comment information regarding the second video received from the distribution server device 20a (information transmitted from the terminal device 10 of each viewer, and information of each distributor). (including both those sent from the terminal device 10) can be stored in the second DB server device 20c.

The gift/comment API server device 20d also receives comment information regarding the first video and/or second video for each viewer's terminal device 10 from each distributor's terminal device 10, and transmits the comment information. It can be transmitted to the distribution server device 20a. Furthermore, the gift/comment API server device 20d can store comment information regarding the first video received from the terminal device 10 of each distributor in the first DB server device 20b. Furthermore, the gift/comment API server device 20d can store comment information regarding the second video received from the terminal device 10 of each distributor in the second DB server device 20c.

In the example shown in FIG. 1, for the purpose of distributing the load, the server system 20A includes a distribution server device 20a, a first DB server device 20b, a second DB server device 20c, and a gift/comment API server device 20d. A configuration having four server devices consisting of the following is shown. However, at least one of these four server devices may be integrated with at least one of the remaining server devices. Furthermore, the operations of the four server devices described above are merely examples, and for example, the operation of at least one server device may be replaced with the operation of another server device.

Next, the web server device 20B can transmit a web page (HTML, for example, a document created according to HTML5) in which the game program is incorporated to the terminal device 10 of each distributor who has accessed the web page. This game program can perform various operations related to video distribution, including operations exemplified below, on the terminal device 10 that received and decoded the game program.
・Operation of executing the game ・Operation of transmitting the game screen (second video) generated as the game is executed to the server system 20A (distribution server device 20a) ・Gift information sent to this distributor and/or an operation of acquiring comment information from the server system 20A (gift/comment API server device 20d)

1-3. studio unit 30
The studio unit 30 may be placed in a studio room, room, hall, etc. where a distributor (performer) distributes a video. The studio unit 30 can perform the same functions as the terminal device 10 and/or the server device 20 described above.

2. Hardware Configuration of Each Device Next, an example of the hardware configuration of each of the terminal device 10, server device 20, and studio unit 30 will be described.

2-1. Hardware Configuration of Terminal Device 10 An example of the hardware configuration of each terminal device 10 will be described with reference to FIG. 2. FIG. 2 is a block diagram schematically showing an example of the hardware configuration of the terminal device 10 (server device 20) shown in FIG. (attached in relation to the server device 20).

As shown in FIG. 2, each terminal device 10 mainly includes a central processing unit 11, a main storage device 12, an input/output interface device 13, an input device 14, an auxiliary storage device 15, and an output device 16. and can include. These devices are connected to each other by a data bus and/or a control bus.

The central processing unit 11 is referred to as a "CPU" and can perform calculations on instructions and data stored in the main storage device 12 and store the results of the calculations in the main storage device 12. Further, the central processing unit 11 can control the input device 14, the auxiliary storage device 15, the output device 16, etc. via the input/output interface device 13. The terminal device 10 may include one or more such central processing units 11.

The main storage device 12 is called a "memory" and stores instructions and data received from the input device 14, the auxiliary storage device 15, and the communication line 30 (server device 20, etc.) via the input/output interface device 13, and The calculation results of the central processing unit 11 can be stored. The main storage device 12 may include, but is not limited to, RAM (Random Access Memory), ROM (Read Only Memory), and/or flash memory.

The auxiliary storage device 15 is a storage device that has a larger capacity than the main storage device 12. Instructions and data (computer programs) constituting the aforementioned specific applications (video distribution application, video viewing application, etc.), web browser application, etc. can be stored. Further, the auxiliary storage device 15 can transmit these instructions and data (computer programs) to the main storage device 12 via the input/output interface device 13 by being controlled by the central processing unit 11 . The auxiliary storage device 15 can include, but is not limited to, a magnetic disk device and/or an optical disk device.

The input device 14 is a device that takes in data from the outside, and can include, but is not limited to, a touch panel, a button, a keyboard, a mouse, and/or a sensor. Sensors may include, but are not limited to, sensors including, but not limited to, one or more cameras and/or one or more microphones, as described below.

The output device 16 can include, but is not limited to, a display device, a touch panel, a printer device, and the like.

In such a hardware configuration, the central processing unit 11 sequentially loads instructions and data (computer programs) constituting a specific application stored in the auxiliary storage device 15 into the main storage device 12, and Can operate on instructions and data. Thereby, the central processing unit 11 controls the output device 16 via the input/output interface device 13, or also controls other devices (for example, the server device 20) via the input/output interface device 13 and the communication network 2. , other terminal devices 10, and/or studio units 30, etc.).

Thereby, the terminal device 10 can execute at least one operation among the operations exemplified below (including various operations described in detail later), for example, by executing the installed specific application. .
・Operations necessary for distributing the first video and/or second video ・Operations necessary for receiving gift information and/or comment information sent to the own terminal device 10 by another terminal device 10 Operations - Necessary operations to receive the first video and/or second video distributed by other terminal devices 10 - To send gift information and/or comment information to other terminal devices 10 the behavior required for

Note that the terminal device 10 can also include one or more microprocessors and/or graphics processing units (GPUs) instead of or together with the central processing unit 11.

2-2. Hardware Configuration of Server Apparatus 20 An example of the hardware configuration of each server apparatus 20 will be described with reference to FIG. 2 as well. The hardware configuration of each server device 20 (distribution server device 20a, first DB server device 20b, second DB server device 20c, gift/comment API server device 20d, and web server device 20B) includes, for example, each of the above-mentioned The same hardware configuration as the terminal device 10 can be used. Therefore, reference numerals for components included in each server device 20 are shown in parentheses in FIG. 2.

As shown in FIG. 2, each server device 20 mainly includes a central processing unit 21, a main storage device 22, an input/output interface device 23, an input device 24, an auxiliary storage device 25, and an output device 26. and can include. These devices are connected to each other by a data bus and/or a control bus.

The central processing unit 21, the main memory 22, the input/output interface device 23, the input device 24, the auxiliary storage 25, and the output device 26 are the central processing unit 11, the main memory included in each terminal device 10 described above, respectively. The device 12, the input/output interface device 13, the input device 14, the auxiliary storage device 15, and the output device 16 can be substantially the same.

In such a hardware configuration, the central processing unit 21 sequentially loads instructions and data (computer programs) constituting a specific application stored in the auxiliary storage device 25 into the main storage device 22, and Can operate on instructions and data. Thereby, the central processing unit 21 controls the output device 26 via the input/output interface device 23, or also controls other devices (for example, each terminal device) via the input/output interface device 23 and the communication network 2. 10 and/or studio unit 30, etc.).

Thereby, the server device 20 can execute at least one operation among the operations illustrated below (including various operations described in detail later), for example.
・Operations necessary to distribute the first video and/or second video transmitted by the terminal device 10 of each distributor to the terminal device 10 of each viewer. Necessary operations for transmitting gift information and/or comment information sent to the terminal device 10 of a distributor 10 to the terminal device 10 of the distributor ・Each viewing transmitted from the terminal device 10 of each distributor Necessary operations for transmitting the comment information sent to the terminal device 10 of the viewer to the terminal device 10 of each viewer - Distribution status regarding the distribution of the first video and/or the second video by each distributor Operations necessary for managing and storing information - Operations necessary for transmitting distribution status information regarding distribution of the first video and/or second video by each distributor to the terminal device 10 of each distributor

Note that the server device 20 can also include one or more microprocessors and/or graphics processing units (GPUs) instead of or together with the central processing unit 21.

2-3. Hardware configuration of studio unit 30 The studio unit 30 can be implemented by an information processing device such as a personal computer, and although not shown, like the terminal device 10 and server device 20 described above, mainly , a central processing unit, a main storage device, an input/output interface device, an input device, an auxiliary storage device, and an output device. These devices are connected to each other by a data bus and/or a control bus.

The studio unit 30 having such a hardware configuration can perform the same functions as the terminal device 10 and/or the server device 20 described above.

3. Functions of Each Device Next, an example of the functions each of the terminal device 10, server device 20, and studio unit 30 have will be described.

3-1. Functions of the terminal device 10 An example of the functions of the terminal device 10 will be described with reference to FIG. 3. FIG. 3 is a block diagram schematically showing an example of the functions of the terminal device 10 shown in FIG. 1.

As shown in FIG. 3, the terminal device 10 mainly includes a first video generation section 100, a second video generation section 110, a gift/comment processing section 120, a distribution status information acquisition section 130, and an object. It can include an extraction section 140, a control parameter calculation section 150, a communication section 160, a display section 170, a storage section 180, and a user interface section 190.

(1) First video generation unit 100
The first video generation unit 100 can generate a first video including an animation of the distributor's avatar based on motion data regarding the distributor's actions. To achieve this, the first moving image generation section 100 can include, for example, an acquisition section 102 and a processing section 104.

The acquisition unit 102 includes one or more first sensors (not shown) that acquire data regarding the distributor's body, and one or more first sensors (not shown) that acquire data regarding speech and singing uttered by the distributor. and a second sensor (not shown).

In a preferred embodiment, the first sensor can include an RGB camera that images visible light and a near-infrared camera that images near-infrared rays. As such a camera, for example, one included in the True Depth camera of iPhone X (registered trademark) can be used. The second sensor can include a microphone that records audio.

First, regarding the first sensor, the acquisition unit 102 images the distributor's body using the first sensor placed close to the distributor's body (for example, the face or limbs). Thereby, the acquisition unit 102 can generate data (for example, an MPEG file) in which an image acquired by an RGB camera is recorded over a unit time in association with a time code (a code indicating the time of acquisition). Furthermore, the acquisition unit 102 records data (for example, TSV file) can be generated. Note that the TSV file is a file in which a plurality of pieces of data are recorded with data separated by tabs.

Regarding the near-infrared camera, specifically, a dot projector emits an infrared laser that forms a dot pattern onto the body of the broadcaster (performer), and the near-infrared camera emits the infrared rays that are projected onto the broadcaster's body and reflected. It captures the dots and generates an image of the infrared dots thus captured. The acquisition unit 102 can compare an image of a dot pattern emitted by a dot projector registered in advance with an image captured by a near-infrared camera. As a result, the acquisition unit 102 uses the positional deviation of each point (each feature point) (for example, each of 51 points/feature points) in both images to determine the depth (each point/feature point) of each point (each feature point). The distance between each feature point and the near-infrared camera can be calculated. The acquisition unit 102 can generate data recorded over a unit time by associating the numerical value indicating the depth calculated in this way with a time code as described above.

Next, regarding the second sensor, the acquisition unit 102 uses the second sensor placed close to the body of the distributor to acquire audio related to speech and singing uttered by the distributor. Thereby, the acquisition unit 102 can generate data (for example, an MPEG file) recorded over a unit time in association with the time code. In one embodiment, the acquisition unit 102 uses the first sensor to acquire data regarding the distributor's body, and at the same time uses the second sensor to acquire audio data regarding speech and singing uttered by the distributor. can be obtained. In this case, the acquisition unit 102 associates the image acquired by the RGB camera and the audio data related to speech and singing uttered by the broadcaster using the second sensor with the same time code for a unit time. It is possible to generate data (for example, an MPEG file) recorded over a period of time.

The acquisition unit 102 processes data related to the distributor's body (MPEG file, TSV file, etc.) and/or audio data related to speech and singing uttered by the distributor (MPEG file, etc.) generated in this way. 104.

Note that although the case where the first sensor includes an RGB camera and an infrared camera has been described here, the first sensor may also include, for example, any of the following (A) to (C). It is.
(A) A camera that detects infrared light emitted by an infrared laser and reflected on the performer's face. (B) Multiple RGB cameras that capture visible light. (C) A single camera that captures visible light.

In the case of (A) above, the acquisition unit 102 can calculate the depth of each feature point on the distributor's body using a method similar to that described above. In the case of (B) above, the acquisition unit 102 can calculate the depth of each feature point on the distributor's body using a plurality of images captured by a plurality of RGB cameras. In the case of (C) above, the acquisition unit 102 uses deep learning or the like to calculate the depth of each feature point on the distributor's body from an image captured by a single camera. I can do it. In the case of (C) above, the acquisition unit 102 calculates the depth of each feature point on the distributor's body by analysis processing (image processing, etc.) on the image captured by a single camera. You may.

The processing unit 104 can generate a video including an animation of a virtual character (the broadcaster's avatar) based on the data regarding the distributor's body from the acquisition unit 102. Regarding the virtual character video itself, the processing unit 104 uses various information (for example, geometry information, bone information, texture information, shader information, blend shape information, etc.) stored in a character storage unit (not shown) to A moving image of a virtual character can also be generated by causing a rendering unit (not shown) to perform rendering.

Further, the processing unit 104 uses the data regarding the distributor's body from the acquisition unit 102 (data regarding the depth of each feature point on the distributor's body) to create a video in which the avatar's expression etc. are changed (for example, A variety of well-known technologies are used to create a video in which the avatar's expression changes in synchronization with the streamer's mouth and eye movements, i.e., a video in which the avatar's expression changes by lip-syncing and following the streamer's gaze to the streamer's face. can be generated.

Note that any other well-known technique may be used to generate the first video including the animation of the broadcaster's avatar based on the behavioral data regarding the broadcaster's movements. Such well-known technology includes a technology called "Blend Shapes" described on the website identified by the URL below.
https://developer.apple.com/documentation/arkit/arfaceanchor/2928251-blendshapes
The contents described on this website are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

When using this technique, the processing unit 104 can adjust the parameters of each of one or more feature points corresponding to the distributor's movements among the multiple feature points of the distributor's upper body (face, etc.). can. Thereby, the processing unit 104 can generate a moving image of a virtual character that follows the actions of the distributor.

(2) Second video generation unit 110
The second video generation unit 110 can generate a second video related to the game based on the operation data regarding the distributor's operation using the web page received from the web server device 20B.

Specifically, the second video generation unit 110 executes a game program embedded in a web page received from the web server device 20B. As a result, the second video generation unit 110 generates the operation data indicating the distributor's operation inputted by the user interface unit 190 and at least one game object whose related control parameters were calculated by the control parameter calculation unit 150. A second video (game video) related to the game can be drawn based on .

(3) Gift/comment processing section 120
The gift/comment processing unit 120 can process gift information and/or comment information transmitted and received regarding video distribution and/or viewing. For example, the gift/comment processing unit 120 operates as the terminal device 10 of a certain distributor (hereinafter also referred to as "distributor A") (for example, the terminal device 10A of distributor A in FIG. 1). In this case, the gift information and/or comment information sent to this distributor A and the terminal device 10 of each viewer (in FIG. 1, the terminal devices 10B to 10D of the viewers) It is possible to process comment information distributed (sent) to. Furthermore, when the terminal device 10 operates as a viewer's terminal device 10, the gift/comment processing unit 120 can process gift information and/or comment information to be transmitted by the viewer.

Note that when a video distribution application and/or a video viewing application are installed on the terminal device 10 (the distributor's terminal device 10 and the viewer's terminal device 10), the gift/comment processing unit 120 performs processing on these applications. Gift information set in advance can be stored. Note that the gift information can include information such as the name, shape, color, and location of the avatar of various types of gifts, and information on the amount of money preset for each gift.

Specifically, for example, a certain viewer uses the user interface unit 190 of the viewer's terminal device 10 to purchase an arbitrary gift for distributor A (distributor A's terminal device 10), and then , the user can perform an operation to send the purchased gift to distributor A. Through this operation by the viewer regarding gift transmission (also referred to as gifting), the gift information to be gifted is transferred from the viewer's terminal device 10 to the server device 20 (distribution server device 20a) to the terminal device of the distributor A. 10. Thereby, the gift/comment processing unit 120 in the terminal device 10 of the distributor A can execute the process of reading the received gift information.

(4) Distribution status information acquisition unit 130
The distribution status information acquisition unit 130 distributes information from the terminal device 10 of each distributor (for example, the terminal device 10A of distributor A) to the terminal device 10 of each viewer via the server device 20 (distribution server device 20a). At least one distribution status information regarding the distribution of the first moving image and/or second moving image to be distributed can be received from the server device 20 (distribution server device 20a). The distribution status information can include distribution act information regarding the distribution act by the distributor and/or distributor status information regarding the distributor.

Here, the distribution act information may include the frequency of distribution by the distributor and the distribution time period in which the distribution is performed by the distributor, regarding the distribution of the first video and/or the second video. Delivery frequency means, for example, the number of delivery days within a predetermined number of days (e.g., the total number of days delivered within a period of one week), the total delivery time during a predetermined number of days (e.g., the number of delivery times delivered within a period of one week). total), in the case of consecutive days of distribution, the number of consecutive days of distribution (in the case of consecutive days of distribution, it may be distributed in different time zones every day, or in the same time zone [for example, 21:00 to 22:00]) ), etc.

The distributor status information includes information calculated based on gift information and/or comment information transmitted and received by the distributor's terminal device 10. Specifically, comment information is sent from the distributor's terminal device 10 to the viewer's terminal device 10 to the viewer who receives the distribution of the distributor's first video and/or second video. (first transmission information), and/or gift information and/or comment information (reception information) that the distributor's terminal device 10 receives from the viewer's terminal device 10 via the server device 20 (distribution server device 20a) The distributor status information may include information such as the number of times a gift has been received (received), the number of times a comment has been received (received), and the number of times a comment has been sent, which are calculated based on .

In addition, in the broadcaster status information, if the broadcaster becomes a viewer in another scene (for example, there is a broadcaster B who is different from the broadcaster A, and the broadcaster A is the first viewer of the broadcaster B's and/or the second video), from the terminal device 10 of the distributor A (in this case, the terminal device 10 of the distributor A becomes the terminal device 10 of the viewer). The number of times gifts have been provided (sent), the amount of money purchased for gifts, and comments, which are calculated based on the gift information and/or comment information (second transmission information) transmitted to the terminal device 10 of distributor B. Information such as the number of times the message was sent may also be included.

Furthermore, the distributor status information can include game progress information by the distributor regarding the second video. Game progress information includes game progress in role-playing games, etc., game-related titles (badges, levels, etc.) given to users according to game scores and game progress (achievement level), sports games, card games, etc. It can include information on battle results, etc.

Furthermore, the distributor status information can include various information other than the above-mentioned information regarding the distributor without any restriction.

Note that the distribution status information acquisition unit 130 may manage and store part or all of the distribution status information described above by itself without receiving it from the distribution server device 20a.

(5) Object extraction unit 140
The object extraction unit 140 extracts the distribution status acquired (or stored) by the distribution status information acquisition unit 130 from among a plurality of game objects used in the game generated based on operation data regarding operations of the distributor. At least one specific game object to be controlled based on the information can be extracted. The at least one specific game object to be controlled may include at least one game object obtained and/or manipulated by the distributor in the game. At least one game object "obtained" or "manipulated" by a broadcaster in a game may include items, equipment, points, rewards, coins, cards, characters, and/or avatars.

(6) Control parameter calculation unit 150
The control parameter calculation unit 150 can calculate control parameters related to the specific game object extracted by the object extraction unit 140 based on the distribution status information acquired by the distribution status information acquisition unit 130. Here, the specific calculation of the control parameters related to the specific game object will be described later. Note that the specific game object extracted by the object extraction unit 140 may include at least one game object that is acquired and/or operated by the distributor in the game, as described above.

(7) Communication department 160
The communication unit 160 can communicate various information required for video distribution/viewing with the server system 20A and the web server device 20B. For example, when the terminal device 10 operates as the distributor's terminal device 10, the communication unit 160 accesses the web server device 20B and displays a web page (HTML) containing a game program necessary for executing the game, etc. documents) etc. Furthermore, when the terminal device 10 operates as the terminal device 10 of a distributor, the communication unit 160 can receive at least one piece of distribution status information from the distribution server device 20a. Furthermore, when the terminal device 10 operates as the distributor's terminal device 10, the communication unit 160 transmits the first video and/or the second video to the server system 20A, and transmits the first video and/or the second video to the viewer's terminal device 10. The gift information and/or comment information sent to this distributor can be received from the server system 20A (gift/comment API server device 20d). Furthermore, when the terminal device 10 operates as the distributor's terminal device 10, the communication unit 160 sends comment information etc. addressed to the viewer's terminal device 10 to the server system 20A (gift/comment API server device 20d). Can be sent.

Furthermore, when the terminal device 10 operates as the viewer's terminal device 10, the communication unit 160 transmits the first video and/or second video transmitted by the distributor's terminal device 10, and comment information. from the server system 20A (distribution server device 20a), and transmit gift information and/or comment information to the distributor (distributor's terminal device 10) to the server system 20A (distribution server device 20a). I can do it.

(8) Display section 170
The display unit 170 can display various information required for video distribution and/or viewing. Specifically, the display unit 170 can display the distributed first video and/or second video, and/or the received first video and/or second video, etc. . Furthermore, the display unit 170 can also display gift information/comment information, etc. transmitted and received between the distributor and the viewer.

(9) Storage unit 180
The storage unit 180 can store various information required for video distribution and/or viewing. Specifically, the storage unit 180 stores, for example, various information regarding the first video, various information regarding the second video, and information transmitted and received between the distributor's terminal device 10 and the viewer's terminal device 10. At least a portion of gift information, comment information, the above-mentioned distribution status information, etc. can be stored.

(10) User interface section 190
The user interface unit 190 can input various information required for distributing and/or viewing a video through operations by a user (distributor or viewer). For example, the user interface unit 180 can input operation data from the distributor indicating the details of the distributor's operation when executing the game, and output the input data to the second video generation unit 110.

3-2. Functions of Server Device 20 Next, an example of the functions of the server device 20 will be described with reference to FIG. 4. FIG. 4 is a block diagram schematically showing an example of the functions of the server device 20 shown in FIG. 1.

As shown in FIG. 4, the server device 20 can mainly include a communication section 200, a storage section 210, a gift/comment processing section 220, and a distribution status management section 230. These may be included in any one of the distribution server device 20a, first DB server device 20b, second DB server device 20c, and gift/comment API server device 20d that configure the server system 20A. , the distribution server device 20a, the first DB server device 20b, the second DB server device 20c, and the gift/comment API server device 20d.

The communication unit 200 can communicate various information required for video distribution and/or viewing with the distributor's terminal device 10 and/or the viewer's terminal device 10. For example, when operating as the server system 20A, the server device 20 receives the first video and/or the second video from the terminal device 10 of each distributor and distributes it to the terminal device 10 of each viewer. can do. In addition, when operating as the server system 20A, the server device 20 sends gift information from the terminal device 10 of each viewer to the terminal device 10 of a certain distributor regarding the first video and/or the second video. and/or comment information can be received and transmitted to the terminal device 10 of the distributor. Furthermore, when operating as the server system 20A, the server device 20 receives comment information addressed to each viewer's terminal device 10 from a certain distributor's terminal device 10, and sends this comment information to each viewer. can be transmitted to the terminal device 10 of. Furthermore, when the server device 20 operates as the server system 20A, the server device 20 transmits the distribution status information managed by the distribution status management unit 230 (also stored in the storage unit 210) to the terminal of the distributor who made the inquiry. The information can be transmitted to the device 10. Furthermore, when the server device 20 operates as the web server device 20B, it can transmit a web page in which a game program is installed to the terminal device 10 of each distributor that has accessed the server device 20.

The storage unit 210 is required for video distribution and/or viewing, and can store various distribution status information received from the communication unit 200, the gift/comment processing unit 220, and/or the distribution status management unit 230. .

The gift/comment processing unit 220 can process gift information and/or comment information sent from each viewer (terminal device 10 of each viewer) to each distributor (terminal device 10 of each distributor). can. The gift/comment processing unit 220 can also process comment information sent from each distributor (terminal device 10 of each distributor) to each viewer (terminal device 10 of each viewer).

The distribution status management unit 230 can manage at least one of the following distribution status information, for example, without being limited to this, regarding the distribution of each distributor (terminal device 10 of each distributor).
(a) Distribution act information regarding the distribution act by a distributor (e.g., distributor A) (e.g., including the following information)
・The distribution act information includes information regarding the distribution frequency of the distributor (for example, distributor A), information regarding the distribution time period in which the distributor distributes the first video and/or the second video, etc. included. Here, the distribution frequency refers to the number of days of distribution within a predetermined number of days (for example, the total number of days distributed within a period of one week), the total time of distribution during a predetermined number of days (for example, the total number of days distributed within a period of one week) total time), the number of days of consecutive distribution in the case of consecutive days of distribution (in the case of three consecutive days of distribution, the number of consecutive days of distribution is "3"), etc. In addition, in the case of continuous delivery, there are cases where it is delivered every day in different time zones, and cases where it is delivered every day in the same time zone (for example, from 9:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.) (these cases are referred to as scheduled delivery). (can also be done). Furthermore, the information regarding the distribution time zone includes, for example, in one day, in which time zone the distribution occurs in three time zones: 0:00 to 8:00, 8:00 to 16:00, and 16:00 to 24:00. It can contain information about people.
(b) Distributor status information regarding the distributor (e.g., Distributor A) (including, for example, the following information)
- The distributor status information may include information calculated based on gift information and/or comment information transmitted and received by the terminal device 10 of the distributor (for example, distributor A). Specifically, comment information is sent from the distributor's terminal device 10 to the viewer's terminal device 10 to the viewer who receives the distribution of the distributor's first video and/or second video. (first transmission information), and/or gift information and/or comment information (reception information) that the distributor's terminal device 10 receives from the viewer's terminal device 10 via the server device 20 (distribution server device 20a) , information such as the number of times gifts have been received (received), comments received (received), and comments sent (broadcaster status information) is calculated based on the broadcaster status information. may be included in
・Distributor status information includes information on cases where a certain distributor (for example, distributor A) becomes a viewer in another situation (there is a distributor B who is different from distributor A, and distributor A is a broadcaster). When the viewer becomes a viewer who views the first video and/or second video distributed by B), the terminal device 10 of the distributor A (in this case, the terminal device 10 of the distributor A is the viewer's terminal The number of times gifts have been provided (sent) and gifts calculated based on the gift information and/or comment information (second transmission information) transmitted from the device 10) to the terminal device 10 of distributor B. Information (distributor status information) such as the purchase price and the number of times comments have been sent may also be included.
- The distributor status information can include game progress information by the distributor regarding the second video. Game progress information includes game progress in role-playing games, etc., game-related titles (badges, levels, etc.) given to users according to game scores and game progress (achievement level), sports games, fighting games, etc. (This information is also the status information of the broadcaster).
・Distributor status information includes the number of co-stars with other distributors regarding the distribution of the first video and/or the second video, the first video currently being distributed and/or the first video distributed in the past, and the number of co-stars with other distributors. /Or the total number of viewers who watch (viewed) the second video, the number of viewers who are followed, "Likes" from viewers regarding the first video and/or the second video, etc. Information such as evaluation information (this information also includes status information of the distributor) may also be included.

The server system 20A is provided to perform the function of distributing the first video and/or the second video transmitted by the terminal device 10 of each distributor to each of the terminal devices 10 of a plurality of viewers. It is being In addition, on the distributor's terminal device 10 and the viewer's terminal device 10 that have installed a specific application (video distribution application, video viewing application, etc.), each user (regardless of whether the distributor or the viewer) An identification ID is given.

Furthermore, the server system 20A relays gift information and comment information exchanged between each distributor and each viewer.

Therefore, the server system 20A determines when and for how many hours the first video and/or the second video is distributed by any distributor's terminal device 10 to any viewer's terminal device 10. It is possible to recognize whether the content is delivered (delivered). Furthermore, the server system 20A also determines whether gift information and/or comment information is being sent and received between which distributor's terminal device 10 and which viewer's terminal device 10. can be recognized. In other words, the server system 20A manages the history (log) of such distribution, the history of transmission and reception of gift information and/or comment information, and the history of game progress (for example, save data), thereby managing the history (log) of such distribution, as described above. You can manage various listed information.

Note that when the server device 20 operates as the web server device 20B, the gift/comment processing section 220 and the distribution status management section 230 may be omitted.

3-3. Functions of Studio Unit 30 As described above, the studio unit 30 can perform the same functions as the terminal device 10 and/or the server device 20. Therefore, the studio unit 30 can have the functions of the terminal device 10 described with reference to FIG. 3 and/or the functions of the server device 20 described with reference to FIG. 4.

Note that when the studio unit 30 is used to perform the same function as the distributor's terminal device 10, the first video generation section 300 (not shown) in the studio unit 30 is the same as the first video generation section 300 (not shown) in the terminal device 10 described above. It may have the same functions as the moving image generation section 100 of No. 1, or may have additional functions.

4. Overall Operation of Video Distribution System 1 Next, the overall operation performed in the video distribution system 1 having the above-described configuration will be described with reference to FIGS. 5A to 7. 5A and 5B are flowcharts showing an example of a video performed in the video distribution system 1 shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of the first video displayed on the terminal device 10 used in the video distribution system 1 shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of a second video displayed on the terminal device 10 used in the video distribution system 1 shown in FIG. 1.

First, referring to FIG. 5A, in step (hereinafter referred to as "ST") 602, in accordance with the operation of the distributor (here, distributor A), the terminal device 10 (here, the terminal device 10A of distributor A) starts and runs the video distribution application.

Next, in ST604, the terminal device 10A of the distributor A generates a first video including the animation of the distributor A's avatar based on the motion data regarding the distributor A's actions. As a result, as illustrated in FIG. 6, the first moving image 410 including the animation of the avatar 400 of the distributor A is displayed on the display unit 170 of the terminal device 10A of the distributor A.

Furthermore, in ST604, the terminal device 10A of the distributor A transmits the generated first video 410 to the distribution server device 20a of the server system 20A. The distribution server device 20a requests the first video 410 distributed by the terminal device 10A of the distributor A from the terminal device 10 of each viewer who is running a video viewing application and accessing the distribution server device 20a. It is possible to receive a request signal to that effect. In response to this request signal, the distribution server device 20a can distribute the first moving image 410 received from the terminal device 10A of the distributor A to the terminal device 10 of each viewer. In this way, the first moving image 410 as illustrated in FIG. 6 is also displayed on the display unit 170 of each viewer's terminal device 10.

Next, in ST606, a viewer (here, viewer B) who is viewing the first video 410 being distributed by the terminal device 10A of distributor A sends a gift (here, as an example) to distributor A. Consider the case of gifting a gift G1). Viewer B operates the user interface section 190 of the terminal device 10B (here, viewer B's terminal device 10B) to select (purchase) gift G1 from among the plurality of preset gifts. , a command for gifting the gift G1 to the distributor A can be selected. As a result, the terminal device 10B of the viewer B transmits the gift information indicating that the gift G1 will be gifted to the distributor A (via the distribution server device 20a) to the gift/comment API server device of the server system 20A. 20d. This gift information includes, for example, recipient identification information that identifies the gift recipient (in this case, sender A), gift identification information that identifies the gift (gift G1 in this case), and gift sender (in this case, gift G1). , sender identification information identifying the viewer B).

Viewer B can also send comments to distributor A by operating the terminal device 10B. In this case, the terminal device 10B of the viewer B can transmit comment information to the gift/comment API server device 20d of the server system 20A (via the distribution server device 20a). The comment information includes recipient identification information that identifies the recipient of the comment (in this case, broadcaster A), comment content information regarding the content of the comment (for example, a comment that says "Do your best"), and the sender of the comment (in this case, , sender identification information identifying viewer B).

Next, in ST608, the gift/comment API server device 20d of the server system 20A transfers the gift information and/or comment information received from the terminal device 10B of the viewer B via the distribution server device 20a to the terminal device of the distributor A. It is transmitted to the device 10A without delay (or every unit time). Thereby, the gift and comment corresponding to the received gift information and/or comment information are displayed on the display unit 170 of the terminal device 10A of the distributor A. Note that the gift/comment API server device 20d of the server system 20A stores the received gift information and/or comment information in the first DB server device 20b.

Next, in ST610, consider a case where distributor A transmits a comment to all viewers or a specific viewer who are viewing the first video 410. Distributor A can comment on all or a specific viewer by operating the user interface section 190 of the terminal device 10A of distributor A. That is, the terminal device 10A of the distributor A can transmit comment information to the gift/comment API server device 20d of the server system 20A. The comment information in this case can also include the aforementioned recipient identification information, comment content information, and sender identification information.

Next, in ST612, the gift/comment API server device 20d of the server system 20A transmits the comment information received from the terminal device 10A of the distributor A to the distribution server device 20a, and the distribution server device 20a transmits this comment information to each It is distributed to the viewer's terminal device 10. The gift/comment API server device 20d also stores the received comment information in the first DB server device 20b.

Next, in ST614, the distribution server device 20a of the server system 20A manages distribution status information regarding the first moving image 410 regarding a series of processes from ST604 to ST612. The distribution server device 20a can recognize all the distribution of the first video 410 and the transmission and reception of gift information and/or comment information between the terminal device 10A of the distributor A and the terminal device 10 of each viewer. As a result, the distribution server device 20a (the distribution status management unit 230 of the distribution server device 20a) can determine when, for how many hours, and to which (how many) viewers' terminal devices 10 the first video 410 is being distributed (or the distribution status management unit 230 thereof). ), the number of gifts received by distributor A, the number of comments received by distributor A, the number of times distributor A sent comments, and various distribution status information (distribution act information and distribution status information). Can be managed (acquired). Note that the distribution server device 20a stores distribution status information regarding the first video 410 in the first DB server device 20b. In addition, although an example of the distribution status information regarding distributor A has been described above, each user (both as a distributor and as a viewer) who uses the video distribution system 1 is required to have individual identification information (e.g., ID, and this identification ID can serve as the above-mentioned recipient identification information and sender identification information.In other words, by being given an individual identification ID, a user can sometimes become a broadcaster, and sometimes be a viewer. ), it is possible to manage the distribution status information for each distributor and store the distribution status information for each distributor in the first DB server device 20b. This point also applies to the distribution status information regarding the second moving image.

ST602 to ST614 described above are a series of operations in which the first video 410 is distributed from the terminal device 10A of distributor A, but ST614 does not necessarily need to be executed after ST612, and ST604 Each time the operation from ST612 to ST612 is executed, distribution status information related to the operation may be managed (obtained) and the distribution status information may be stored in the first DB server device 20b.

Next, in ST616, when the distributor A taps the "Game" icon 420 (see FIG. 6) displayed on the display unit 170 of the distributor A's terminal device 10A, the distributor A's terminal device 10A , executes the browser function installed in the video distribution application. As a result, in ST618, the terminal device 10A of the distributor A executes the video distribution application (that is, distributes the first video 410 to the terminal device 10 of each viewer), and the web server device 10A 20B can be accessed. Therefore, the terminal device 10A of the distributor A can receive the HTML5 document in which the game program is embedded from the web server device 20B.

Next, refer to FIG. 5B. In ST620, the terminal device 10A of the distributor A can generate a video (second video) related to the game by executing the game program incorporated in the received HTML5 document. FIG. 7 shows an example of the second moving image 500 generated by the terminal device 10A of the distributor A in this manner.

Next, in ST622, the terminal device 10A of the distributor A inquires about the distribution status information to the distribution server device 20a of the server system 20A. At least one piece of distribution status information regarding distributor A stored in the 2DB server device 20c is read. Thereby, the terminal device 10A of the distributor A can receive the at least one distribution status information from the distribution server device 20a. Note that the transmission of the distribution status information from the distribution server device 20a to the terminal device 10A of the distributor A does not necessarily have to be based on the above-mentioned inquiry from the terminal device 10A of the distributor A; for example, the transmission of the distribution status information from the distribution server device 20a This may be automatically performed on the terminal device 10A of the distributor A at predetermined time intervals.

In ST622, the distribution server device 20a reads out at least part of the distribution status information regarding the first video 410 stored in the first DB server device 20b in response to the inquiry from the terminal device 10A of the distributor A. Alternatively, at least a part of the distribution status information regarding the second video 500 stored in the second DB server device 20c may be read out, or both of these may be read out. Note that the distribution status information regarding the second moving image 500 stored in the second DB server device 20c is stored in ST636, which will be described later. In other words, the distribution status information regarding the second video 500 does not exist when the user (either as a distributor or as a viewer) uses the video distribution system 1 for the first time, but when the user If you use System 1 many times, it will gradually increase. This also applies to the distribution status information regarding the first moving image 410.

Next, in ST624, the terminal device 10A of the distributor A, which has received the distribution status information of the distributor A from the distribution server device 20a, selects a plurality of A control parameter related to a specific game object to be controlled is calculated from among the game objects. Here, the specific game object to be controlled may include at least one game object that the distributor A acquires and/or operates in the game. At least one game object that streamer A "obtains" or "operates" in the game includes items, equipment, points, rewards, coins, cards, characters, and/or avatars (including streamer A's avatar). obtain. Note that details of the calculation of control parameters related to the specific game object will be described later in a specific example of the second video 500.

As a result, in ST626, the terminal device 10A of the distributor A generates the second video (game) 500 in which the control parameters related to the specific game object are calculated (at this time, the terminal device 10A of the distributor A (a second moving image 500 is displayed on the display unit 170 of), and distributing the generated second moving image 500 to each viewer's terminal device 10 via the server system 20A (distribution server device 20a). I can do it. Note that the details of the game screen on which the control parameters related to the specific game object are calculated will be described later in a specific example of the second moving image.

By the way, when transmitting the second video 500 generated in ST626 to the distribution server device 20a of the server system 20A, the terminal device 10A of the distributor A stops transmitting the first video 410 to the distribution server device 20a. Alternatively, the first video 410 may be transmitted together with the second video 500. The distribution server device 20a distributes the second video 500 received from the terminal device 10A of the distributor A to the terminal device 10 of each viewer who is receiving the first video 410 by running a video viewing application. (Note that if the distribution server device 20a receives not only the second video 500 but also the first video 410 from the terminal device 10A of the distributor A, the distribution server device 20a receives only the second video 500, or Both the second video 500 and the first video 410 may be transmitted to each viewer's terminal device 10). In this way, the display unit 170 of each viewer's terminal device 10 is also displayed (for example, in a state where the first moving image 410 is hidden by covering it over the first moving image 410 as illustrated in FIG. 6). A second video 500 may be displayed.

Note that in FIG. 5B, ST622 to ST626 are provided between ST620 and ST628 for convenience, but the present invention is not limited to this, and the terminal device 10A of the distributor A executes the game and the second While the video 500 is being distributed to the viewer's terminal device 10, the processing may be executed at predetermined time intervals, for example, regardless of the order of processing.

Next, in ST628, a viewer (here, viewer C) who is viewing the second video (game) 500 being distributed by distributor A's terminal device 10A sends a gift ( Here, as an example, we will consider a case where a gift G2) is given (gifted). Viewer C operates the user interface section 190 of the terminal device 10C (here, viewer C's terminal device 10C) to select (purchase) gift G2 from among the plurality of preset gifts. , a command for gifting the gift G2 to the distributor A can be selected. As a result, the terminal device C of the viewer C sends the gift information indicating that the gift G2 is to be gifted to the distributor A (via the distribution server device 20a) to the gift/comment API server device of the server system 20A. 20d. This gift information includes, for example, recipient identification information that identifies the gift recipient (in this case, sender A), gift identification information that identifies the gift (in this case, gift G2), and gift sender (in this case, gift G2). , sender identification information identifying the viewer C).

Viewer C can also send comments to distributor A by operating the terminal device 10C. In this case, the terminal device 10C of the viewer C can transmit comment information to the gift/comment API server device 20d of the server system 20A (via the distribution server device 20a). The comment information includes recipient identification information that identifies the recipient of the comment (in this case, broadcaster A), comment content information regarding the content of the comment (for example, a comment such as "I'm rooting for you"), and the sender of the comment ( In this case, the sender identification information identifying the viewer C) may be included.

Next, in ST630, the gift/comment API server device 20d of the server system 20A transfers the gift information and/or comment information received from the terminal device 10C of the viewer C via the distribution server device 20a to the terminal device of the distributor A. It is transmitted to the device 10A without delay (or every unit time). Thereby, the gift and comment corresponding to the received gift information and/or comment information are displayed on the display unit 170 of the terminal device 10A of the distributor A. Note that the gift/comment API server device 20d of the server system 20A stores the received gift information and/or comment information in the second DB server device 20c.

Next, in ST632, consider a case where distributor A transmits a comment to all viewers or a specific viewer who are viewing the second video (game) 500. Distributor A can comment on all or a specific viewer by operating the user interface section 190 of the terminal device 10A of distributor A. That is, the terminal device 10A of the distributor A can transmit comment information to the gift/comment API server device 20d of the server system 20A. The comment information in this case can also include the aforementioned recipient identification information, comment content information, and sender identification information.

Next, in ST634, the gift/comment API server device 20d of the server system 20A transmits the comment information received from the terminal device 10A of the distributor A to the distribution server device 20a, and the distribution server device 20a transmits this comment information to each It is distributed to the viewer's terminal device 10. The gift/comment API server device 20d also stores the received comment information in the second DB server device 20c.

Next, in ST636, distribution server device 20a of server system 20A manages distribution status information regarding second moving image 500 regarding a series of processes from ST626 to ST634. The distribution server device 20a can recognize all the distribution of the second video 500 and the transmission and reception of gift information and/or comment information between the terminal device 10A of the distributor A and the terminal device 10 of each viewer. As a result, the distribution server device 20a (the distribution status management unit 230 of the distribution server device 20a) determines when, for how many hours, and to which (how many) viewers' terminal devices 10 the second video 500 is being distributed (or the distribution status management unit 230 thereof). ), the number of gifts received by distributor A, the number of comments received by distributor A, the number of times distributor A sent comments, game progress information by distributor A, game setting information by distributor A It is possible to manage (obtain) various distribution status information (distribution act information and distribution status information) such as . Note that the distribution server device 20a stores distribution status information regarding the second video 500 in the second DB server device 20c. In addition, although an example of the distribution status information regarding distributor A has been described above, each user (both as a distributor and as a viewer) who uses the video distribution system 1 is required to have individual identification information (e.g., ID, and this identification ID can serve as the above-mentioned recipient identification information and sender identification information.In other words, by being given an individual identification ID, a user can sometimes become a broadcaster, and sometimes be a viewer. ) is given, so it is possible to manage the distribution status information for each distributor and store the distribution status information for each distributor in the second DB server device 20c.

Next, in ST638, if the terminal device 10A of the distributor A wants to continue the game, it can repeat the processes from ST622 onwards. On the other hand, if the terminal device 10A of the distributor A does not continue the game, the process ends.

5. Specific Example of Second Moving Image 500 Next, a specific example of the second moving image 500 will be described with reference to FIGS. 7 and 8. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of calculation information included in the information table. In FIG. 7, as an example, a second video 500 regarding a fighting game (a type of action game) being played by a certain distributor (here, distributor A) is displayed on the terminal of distributor A in ST626 described above. It is shown how it is displayed on the device 10A and also displayed on the terminal device 10 of each viewer.

In this game, a distributor A operates an avatar (or character) 501 of the distributor A to compete against an enemy character 502, as shown in FIG. The avatar 501 of the distributor A basically aims to defeat the enemy character 502 by performing various attacks such as punches and kicks. Note that the enemy character may be one that is preset in the game program, or if this game is a fighting game between multiple distributors, the enemy character may be one that is set in advance in the game program, or if the game is a fighting game between multiple distributors, the enemy character may be one that is set in advance in the game program. It may be an avatar of the broadcaster X).

The terminal device 10A of the distributor A can control at least one game object used in this game based on the distribution status information received from the distribution server device 20a of the server system 20A in ST622 described above. Specifically, the terminal device 10A of distributor A can first extract a game object to be controlled (a "specific game object") from among a plurality of game objects used in this game. . Furthermore, the terminal device 10A of the distributor A can calculate control parameters related to the extracted specific game object based on the received distribution status information.

The distribution status information that the terminal device 10A of the distributor A receives in ST622 described above may include at least one of the following examples. Note that the examples given below include the latest information, the cumulative total of all information going back a predetermined period (for example, one week or one month), or the best information. It's okay.
(a) Distribution act information regarding the distribution act by distributor A (for example, including the following information)
- The distribution act information includes information regarding the distribution frequency of the distributor A, information regarding the distribution time zone in which the distribution is performed by the distributor A, and the like regarding the distribution of the first video 410 and/or the second video 500. Here, the distribution frequency refers to the number of days of distribution within a predetermined number of days (for example, the total number of days distributed within a period of one week), the total time of distribution during a predetermined number of days (for example, the total number of days distributed within a period of one week) total time), the number of days of consecutive distribution in the case of consecutive days of distribution (in the case of three consecutive days of distribution, the number of consecutive days of distribution is "3"), etc. In addition, in the case of continuous delivery, there are cases where it is delivered every day in different time zones, and cases where it is delivered every day in the same time zone (for example, from 9:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.) (these cases are referred to as scheduled delivery). (can also be done). Furthermore, the information regarding the distribution time zone includes, for example, in one day, in which time zone the distribution occurs in three time zones: 0:00 to 8:00, 8:00 to 16:00, and 16:00 to 24:00. It can contain information about people.
(b) Distributor status information regarding the distributor (e.g., Distributor A) (including, for example, the following information)
- The distributor status information may include information calculated based on gift information and/or comment information transmitted and received by the distributor A's terminal device 10A. Specifically, for a viewer who receives distribution of the first video 410 and/or second video 500 of distributor A, transmission is made from the terminal device 10 of distributor A to the terminal device 10 of the viewer. comment information (first transmission information), and/or gift information and/or comments that the terminal device 10 of the distributor A receives from the terminal device 10 of the viewer via the server device 20 (distribution server device 20a) information (reception information), such as the number of times gifts were received (received), comments received (received), and comments sent (sender status information). , may be included in the distributor status information.
・Distributor status information includes the case where distributor A becomes a viewer in another scene (there is a distributor B who is different from distributor A, and distributor A is the first video distributed by distributor B). 410 and/or the second video 500), from the distributor A's terminal device 10A (in this case, the distributor A's terminal device 10A is the viewer's terminal device 10). The number of times gifts have been provided (sent), the amount of money purchased for gifts, and comments, which are calculated based on the gift information and/or comment information (second transmission information) transmitted to the terminal device 10 of distributor B. Information such as the number of times the message has been sent (distributor status information) may also be included.
- The distributor status information can include game progress information by distributor A regarding the second video 500. Game progress information includes game progress in role-playing games, etc., game scores and titles (badges, levels, etc.) given to users according to game progress (achievement level), sports games, fighting games, etc. This includes event and tournament performance information, etc. (this information is also the status information of the broadcaster).
- Distributor status information includes the number of co-stars with other distributors regarding the distribution of the first video 410 and/or the second video 500, the number of times the first video 410 and/or the second video 500 is currently being distributed, and/or the first video that was distributed in the past. The total number of viewers who watch (viewed) the video 410 and/or the second video 500, the number of viewers who are being followed, and the number of comments from viewers regarding the first video 410 and/or the second video 500. Information such as evaluation information such as "Like!" (this information is also status information of the distributor) may also be included.

Furthermore, in order for the terminal device 10A of the distributor A to extract a specific game object to be controlled from among a plurality of game objects, in one embodiment, the web server device 20B and/or the server system 20A ( The information table 1000 (see FIG. 8) received from the distribution server device 20a) or the like can be used. This information table is associated with each game and shows how to calculate which control parameters of each specific game object are based on which distribution status information (mainly, but not limited to, increase or decrease). It is possible to include calculation information indicating whether to perform the calculation. The terminal device 10A of the distributor A searches the information table using the currently running game as a search key, identifies at least one specific game object, and then determines which control parameters related to the specific game object. It is possible to identify how the calculation is performed. Note that the terminal device 10A of the distributor A identifies at least one specific game object related to the currently running game, identifies in advance distribution status information that is a prerequisite for calculating the specific game object, and calculates the distribution status information. The distribution server device 20a may be inquired to receive only the distribution status information from the distribution server device 20a.

Referring to FIG. 8, for example, in fighting game A (for example, see FIG. 7), a distributor's avatar (in FIG. 7, distributor A's avatar 501) and an ally character are extracted as specific game objects. Ru. The control parameters related to the distributor's avatar are "attack power" and "defense power", and the control parameters related to the ally characters are "number of appearances", respectively, set in the information table. Regarding the distribution status information of distributor A, if the number of consecutive days of distribution is "3" to "6", the "attack power" of the distributor's avatar will be "double", and if the number of consecutive days of distribution is "7 or more" In this case, the "attack power" is calculated so that the "attack power" of the broadcaster's avatar is "5 times".

Further, referring to FIG. 8, regarding the distribution status information of distributor A, the received gift (here, it may be related to the distribution of the first video 410 or the distribution of the second video 500). (or may be related to the distribution of both the first video 410 and the second video 500), when the total number reaches 100 or more, one ally character is added (provided). Note that regarding the distribution status information of the distributor A, the cumulative value of the received gifts may be used instead of (or together with the cumulative total number of gifts) the aforementioned cumulative total number of received gifts. "Value" in this case means points, purchase amount, etc. that are associated with each gift in advance. Therefore, the "total value of received gifts" means the cumulative total of points and purchase amounts associated with each received gift.

Furthermore, referring to FIG. 8, regarding the distribution status information of distributor A, received comments (here, comments may be related to the distribution of the first video 410 or comments regarding the distribution of the second video 500). or may be related to the distribution of both the first video 410 and the second video 500), when the total number of videos reaches 500 or more, one ally character is added (granted). . Regarding the distribution status information of distributor A, instead of the above-mentioned cumulative total number of received comments (or together with the cumulative total number of comments), the cumulative number of specific keywords included in the received comments, the cumulative number of characters in the received comments etc. may be used. In this case, by registering a specific keyword in the server system 20A or the terminal device 10A of the distributor A in advance, the server system 20A or the terminal device 10A of the distributor A can manage the specific keyword. can.

Regarding the distribution status information of distributor A, instead of the total number of received comments (or together with the total number of comments), for example, certain text information can be used to indicate whether it is "positive," "neutral," or "negative." The cumulative total number of comments that are classified as "positive" among the received comments may be used as the distribution status information using a computer program that has undergone machine learning and can be classified into one of the following. In this case, the machine-learned program is installed on the server system 20A or the distributor A's terminal device 10A. Further, regarding the distribution status information of distributor A, the number of characters in the received or distributed comment body may be used as the distribution status information. In this case, the large number of characters in the comment body may mean that there are viewers who are enthusiastic about distributor A or the second video distributed by distributor A.

By the way, in FIG. 7, the above two conditions regarding gifts and comments (for example, the total number of received gifts is 100 or more, and the total number of received comments is 500 or more) are met, and 2 Two ally characters 503 and 504 are displayed. The ally character means a character who becomes an ally of the broadcaster's avatar and fights (fights) against the enemy character 502.

Note that the above-mentioned "attack power" becomes "2 times" or "5 times" when the energy gauge 520 of the enemy character increases when the broadcaster's avatar 501 attacks the enemy character 502 in FIG. This means that the amount is 2 times or 5 times lower than normal. Also, as shown in FIG. 8, the fact that the "defense power" becomes "2 times" or "5 times" means that when the broadcaster's avatar 501 is attacked by the enemy character 502 in FIG. This means that the energy gauge 510 of the broadcaster's avatar 501 decreases by only 1/2 or 1/5 times compared to normal times.

By the way, as shown in FIG. 8, the above-mentioned specific game objects are not limited to the distributor's avatar, etc., but can be various objects such as equipment, points, rewards, coins, cards, etc. depending on the type of game. You can target things. Further, for example, the distribution status information that is used as the basis for calculations such as "number of consecutive days of distribution" and "total total number of received gifts" shown in FIG. 8 may be only related to the first video 410, It may be only about the second moving image 500, or it may be the sum (summation) of both the first moving image 410 and the second moving image 500.

In addition, calculating control parameters related to a specific game object based on at least one distribution status information means that at least one of the following events that is more advantageous to the distributor occurs: It can be interpreted as meaning to do.
- Decrease the difficulty of the game.
- Allow the distributor to obtain more game objects (characters, points, rewards, etc.).
- Force the streamer to acquire more valuable game objects (rare items, higher points, rewards, etc.).
In particular, the more frequently a streamer broadcasts and/or the more frequently gifts and comments are exchanged about the streamer, the more likely this will occur and the more advantageously the streamer will be able to play the game. You can proceed. In addition, if a distributor broadcasts in all time zones (for example, 0:00 to 8:00, 8:00 to 16:00, and 16:00 to 24:00) in one day (such as (This case can also be referred to as specified time distribution), the frequency of distribution by the distributor increases, but even in such a case, the above-mentioned phenomenon occurs, and the distributor is able to play the game more advantageously. can proceed.

As shown in FIG. 7, when distributing the second video (game) 500, comment information (described in ST628 to ST634) performed between the terminal device 10A of the distributor A and the terminal device 10 of each viewer. ) is displayed in the comment area 530 on the display section 170 of the terminal device 10A of the distributor A and the terminal device 10 of each viewer.

6. Modifications In the various embodiments described above, a case has been described in which the terminal device 10A of the distributor A distributes the second video 500 related to a fighting game. However, the terminal device 10A of the distributor A can distribute the second video 500 regarding any game. Any game is limited to, for example, an action game, a simulation game, a role-playing game, a card game, a puzzle game, a shooting game, a quiz game, a training game, a board game, a gacha game, and/or a sports game. It can be included without

Further, in the embodiment described above with reference to FIGS. 7 and 8, the specific game objects are, for example, the distributor's avatar and the ally character, but are not limited to this, and for example, the enemy character 502 may be used. In this case, if the control parameter of the enemy character 502 is "attack power", the attack power may be calculated to be 1/2 or 1/4.

Further, regarding the calculation of the control parameters, what is shown in FIG. 8 is just an example, and the settings may be made in more detail (fine).

Furthermore, in the various embodiments described above, the distributor's terminal device 10 sends an HTML (particularly HTML5) document in which a game program is embedded to a web server device in order to generate a video related to the game (second video 500). The case of receiving from 20B has been explained. However, instead of receiving an HTML document in which a game program is embedded from the web server device 20B, the distributor's terminal device 10 executes an installed video distribution application and receives an HTML document (not shown) from a data server device (or server It is also possible to generate the second moving image 500 including a screen related to the game by receiving necessary information from some server device (not shown) included in the system 20A.

In the various embodiments described above, the distributor's terminal device 10 may be a smartphone or the like used by general users, or may be a dedicated terminal device installed in a studio or the like. In this case, at least one of the distribution server device 20a, the first DB server device 20b, the second DB server device 20c, and the gift/comment API server device 20d (and the web server device 20B) included in the server system 20A. Two server devices may be installed together with a dedicated terminal device in a studio or the like.

Furthermore, in the various embodiments described above, the terminal device 10 of the distributor generates a first moving image including an animation including an avatar of the distributor based on motion data regarding the distributor's actions and audio data regarding the distributor's voice. 410 is generated and the first moving image 410 is transmitted to the server device 20 (server system 20A). However, the distributor's terminal device 10 transmits motion data regarding the distributor's motions and audio data regarding the distributor's voice to the server device 20, and the server device 20 generates the first video based on the motion data and audio data. 410 may be generated and the first moving image 410 may be distributed to the terminal device 10 of each viewer. Thereby, the amount of information transmitted from the distributor's terminal device 10 to the server system 20A can be reduced.

Alternatively, the terminal device 10 of the distributor transmits the operational data regarding the distributor's operation and the audio data regarding the distributor's voice to a separately provided server device, and this separate server device transmits the operational data regarding the distributor's operation and the audio data regarding the distributor's voice, and this separate server device Even if the first video 410 is generated and returned to the distributor's terminal device 10, and the distributor's terminal device 10 transmits the received first video 410 to the server device 20 (server system 20A). good. Thereby, the amount of information transmitted from the distributor's terminal device 10 to the separately provided server device 20 can be reduced.

Furthermore, the distributor's terminal device 10 transmits operational data regarding the distributor's actions and audio data regarding the distributor's voice to each viewer via the server device 20 (server system 20A) or a separately provided server device. The terminal device 10 of each viewer may generate (render) and display the first moving image 410 based on the received motion data and audio data (note that this method (sometimes referred to as "client rendering"). Thereby, the amount of information transmitted from the server device 20 (server system 20A) or a separately provided server device to each viewer's terminal device 10 can be reduced.

Furthermore, in any of the above cases, generating the first video 410 based on the motion data and audio data transmitted by the distributor's terminal device 10 is performed by the server device 20, the separate server device, and each viewer. The processing may be shared among at least two of the user's terminal devices 10. In either case, the device responsible for generating the video can receive and store information (images, etc.) regarding the avatar to be operated, for example, from the server device 20 or the like.

In the various embodiments described above, the operations of each terminal device 10 described above can be similarly executed by the studio unit 30 having the same configuration as this terminal device 10. In this case, the studio unit 30A illustrated in FIG. 1 can have the same functions as the terminal device 10 for distributing moving images. Similarly, the studio unit 30B illustrated in FIG. 1 can have the same functions as the terminal device 10 for viewing videos. Furthermore, the operations of each of the server devices 20 described above can also be executed in the same way by a studio unit 30 having the same configuration as this server device 20.

Generally, when a game program is installed on the terminal device 10, or when the game program is incorporated into a video distribution application installed on the terminal device 10, in order to run a new game, the terminal device The device 10 needs to install a new game program or video distribution application. In this case, from the perspective of the game program producer, there is a problem in that the number of man-hours required to produce the game program increases because it is necessary to prepare a game program compatible with each of the plurality of OSs. On the other hand, from the user's point of view, in order to obtain a new game, it is necessary to download a new game program and/or update an existing game program, which increases communication load, communication cost, time and effort. There is a problem that it takes.

On the other hand, in the technology disclosed in the present application, the distributor's terminal device 10 does not execute the game program installed on the terminal device 10 in order to execute the game, but rather uses a video distribution application. It is possible to call a browser function built into the , use this browser function to receive a web page (an HTML document, especially an HTML5 document) from the web server device 20B, and execute a game program built into this web page. . Thereby, the distributor's terminal device 10 can easily execute a new game. Therefore, when providing a new game, the game program producer only needs to incorporate the new game program into the web page (HTML document, especially HTML5 document) transmitted by the web server device 20B. The number of man-hours required for production can be reduced. Furthermore, since the user does not need to download a new game program in order to receive a new game, the communication load, communication cost, time, and effort can be reduced.

In the various embodiments described above, the distributor's terminal device 10 executes the video distribution application, communicates with the server system 20A, and distributes the first video 410 while the distributor's terminal device 10 executes the video distribution application. By executing the browser function built in, the program included in the web page received from the web server device 20B is executed, and the second video 500 is sent to each viewer's terminal device 10 via the server system 20A. can be delivered. However, such a configuration is only an example.

For example, the distributor's terminal device 10 can also distribute the second video 500 without distributing the first video 410. Specifically, in the first example, the distributor's terminal device 10 executes the video distribution application and executes the browser function built into the video distribution application. The program included in the web page received from the web server device 20B is executed to distribute the second video 410 to each viewer's terminal device 10 via the server system 20A. It is also possible to distribute 500. In this configuration, the distributor A does not distribute the first video 410 based on his/her own performance (stops distribution of the first video 410), but instead distributes the first video 410 that shows the state of the game that the distributor A is playing. Only the video 500 of No. 2 can be distributed.

In the second example, the distributor's terminal device 10 executes the installed game application and accesses the server system 20A that also functions as a game server device, thereby displaying the screen of the game being executed. It is also possible to distribute to each viewer's terminal device 10 via this server system 20A. In these first and second examples, the terminal device 10A of the distributor A uses the distribution status information received from the server system 20A to generate the second video 500, as in the various embodiments described above. It is possible to generate

Furthermore, in the third example, in the first example or the second example, the distributor's terminal device 10 generates the distributor's operation data without generating the game screen (second video 500). can be transmitted to the server system 20A or the web server device 20B. In this case, the server system 20A or the web server device 20B generates a game screen (second video 500) using the operation data, and the server system 20A displays the generated second video 500 to each viewer. can be distributed to the terminal devices 10 of. In this third example, when the web server device 20B generates the second video 500, the web server device 20B can use the distribution status information received from the server system 20A (distribution server device 20a). . When the server system 20A generates the second video 500, the server system 20A can use distribution status information that it manages and stores.

The various embodiments described above may be used in combination with each other as long as no contradiction or disadvantage arises.

7. Effects of Various Embodiments As described above, according to one embodiment and various embodiments including modified examples, control related to a specific game object is performed based on at least one distribution status information regarding the distribution of each distributor. A second moving image can be generated by calculating the parameters. As a result, the distributor is motivated to use the service of the video distribution system 1 as a distributor for the purpose of advancing his/her own game more advantageously. Further, the distributor does not necessarily limit himself to using the video distribution system 1 as a distributor, but may also use the video distribution system 1 as a viewer.

As described above, the technology disclosed in the present application can provide a computer program, method, and server device that can induce users to use services related to video distribution, either as a distributor or as a viewer. .

8. Regarding various aspects , a computer program according to a first aspect includes a computer program that is executed by at least one processor and includes a first animation of an avatar of the broadcaster generated based on behavioral data regarding the behavior of the broadcaster. or the operation data, and a second video related to the game generated based on the operation data regarding the distributor's operation using the received web page, to the terminal devices of a plurality of viewers via a communication line. , obtain at least one distribution status information related to the distribution, extract a specific game object to be controlled from among a plurality of game objects used in the game, and perform the at least one distribution. ``operating the processor to calculate control parameters associated with the particular game object based on the context information.''

The computer program according to the second aspect is characterized in that in the first aspect, "the at least one distribution status information includes distribution act information regarding the distribution act of the distributor and/or distributor status information regarding the distributor. include".

In the computer program according to the third aspect, in the second aspect, "the distribution act information includes the frequency of distribution by the distributor and/or the distribution time period in which the distribution is performed by the distributor".

In the computer program according to the fourth aspect, in the third aspect, "the distribution frequency is the number of days of distribution by the distributor within a predetermined number of days, and/or the total time of distribution by the distributor during the predetermined number of days. ”.

In the computer program according to the fifth aspect, in the third aspect, "the distribution frequency is the number of consecutive days of daily distribution by the distributor".

In the computer program according to the sixth aspect, in the fifth aspect, "the distribution frequency is the number of consecutive days of distribution in the same time zone by the distributor".

In the computer program according to the seventh aspect, in the third aspect, "a plurality of delivery time slots are set in advance within the same day."

In the computer program according to the eighth aspect, in the second aspect, "the distributor status information is transmitted from the distributor's terminal device to the viewer's terminal device via the communication line during the distribution act. The status of the distributor calculated based on the first transmission information to be transmitted and/or the reception information that the terminal device of the distributor receives from the terminal device of the viewer via the communication line during the distribution act. Contains information.”

In the computer program according to the ninth aspect, in the second aspect, "the distributor status information indicates that the distributor's terminal device, in relation to the other distributor's terminal device, When used as a terminal device of the viewer who receives the first video to be distributed or the action data and the second video, from the terminal device of the distributor to the terminal device of the other distributor. and the status information of the distributor calculated based on the second transmission information transmitted to the distributor.

In the computer program according to the tenth aspect, in the second aspect, "the distributor status information includes progress information of the game by the distributor."

A computer program according to an eleventh aspect is that in any one of the first to tenth aspects, "the at least one distribution status information is related to the distributed second moving image."

A computer program according to a twelfth aspect is a computer program according to any one of the first to eleventh aspects, in which “the specific game object is the game object acquired by the distributor or operated by the distributor in the game. be".

A computer program according to a thirteenth aspect is that in the twelfth aspect, "the specific game object includes items, equipment, points, rewards, coins, cards, characters, and/or avatars."

A computer program according to a fourteenth aspect is that in any one of the first to thirteenth aspects, "the processor includes a central processing unit (CPU), a microprocessor, and/or a graphics processing unit (GPU)." .

A computer program according to a fifteenth aspect is that in any one of the first to fourteenth aspects, "the communication line includes the Internet."

The computer program according to the sixteenth aspect is characterized in that the computer program is executed by at least one processor to generate a first moving image containing an animation of the avatar of the broadcaster, which is generated based on behavioral data regarding the broadcaster's movements; receiving operation data and a second video related to the game generated based on operation data regarding the distributor's operations using the received web page from the distributor's terminal device via a communication line; A second moving image is extracted as a control target from among a plurality of game objects used in the game, and the second moving image is related to distribution of the first moving image or the action data and the second moving image by the distributor. ``operating the processor to include a particular game object for which associated control parameters have been calculated based on at least one distribution status information.''

A computer program according to a seventeenth aspect is that in the sixteenth aspect, "the processor includes a central processing unit (CPU), a microprocessor, and/or a graphics processing unit (GPU)."

A computer program according to an eighteenth aspect is that in the sixteenth or seventeenth aspect, "the communication line includes the Internet."

A method according to a nineteenth aspect is a method performed by at least one processor that executes computer-readable instructions, wherein the processor performs an operation related to the distributor's operation by executing the instructions. A first video including an animation of the distributor's avatar generated based on the data or the motion data, and a first video related to the game generated based on the operation data regarding the distributor's operation using the received web page. a step of distributing the video of No. 2 to terminal devices of a plurality of viewers via a communication line, a step of obtaining at least one distribution status information regarding the distribution, and a plurality of game objects used in the game. The method includes the steps of: extracting a specific game object to be controlled from among the above, and calculating a control parameter related to the specific game object based on the at least one distribution status information.

The method according to the 20th aspect is that in the 19th aspect, "the processor includes a central processing unit (CPU), a microprocessor, and/or a graphics processing unit (GPU)."

A method according to a twenty-first aspect is that in the nineteenth or twentieth aspect, "the communication line includes the Internet."

The method according to the twenty-second aspect is "a method performed by at least one processor that executes computer-readable instructions, wherein the processor performs an operation related to the distributor's operation by executing the instructions. A first video including an animation of the distributor's avatar generated based on the data or the motion data, and a first video related to the game generated based on the operation data regarding the distributor's operation using the received web page. 2 from the distributor's terminal device via a communication line, and the second video is a target of control from among a plurality of game objects used in the game. a specific game object for which a related control parameter has been calculated based on at least one distribution status information regarding the distribution of the first video or the motion data and the second video by the distributor; including".

The method according to the twenty-third aspect is the method according to the twenty-second aspect, wherein "the processor includes a central processing unit (CPU), a microprocessor, and/or a graphics processing unit (GPU)."

A method according to a twenty-fourth aspect is that in the twenty-second or twenty-third aspect, "the communication line includes the Internet."

The server device according to the twenty-fifth aspect is characterized in that the server device “includes at least one processor, and the processor generates a first video including an animation of the distributor's avatar generated based on behavioral data regarding the distributor's actions; Receive the operation data and a second video related to the game generated based on the operation data regarding the distributor's operation using the received web page from the distributor's terminal device, and A server device that causes the at least one processor to function so as to distribute the moving image or the operation data and the second moving image to terminal devices of a plurality of viewers via a communication line, The second video is extracted as a control target from among a plurality of game objects used in the game, and the second video is distributed by the distributor with the first video or the action data and the second video. "including a specific game object for which associated control parameters have been calculated based on at least one distribution status information regarding the specific game object".

In the server device according to the twenty-sixth aspect, in the twenty-fifth aspect, "the processor includes a central processing unit (CPU), a microprocessor, and/or a graphics processing unit (GPU)".

In the server device according to the twenty-seventh aspect, in the twenty-fifth or twenty-sixth aspect, "the communication line includes the Internet".

The server device according to the twenty-eighth aspect is characterized in that the server device includes “at least one processor, and the processor generates a first moving image including an animation of the distributor's avatar generated based on behavior data regarding the distributor's actions; The operation data and a second video related to the game generated based on the operation data regarding the distributor's operation using the received web page are directed to the terminal devices of a plurality of viewers via a communication line. A web page including a computer program is transmitted via a communication line to the distributor's terminal device configured to distribute, and the computer program transmits the distributor's terminal device to the distributor's terminal device. Obtain at least one distribution status information regarding the distribution, extract a specific game object to be controlled from among a plurality of game objects used in the game, and based on the at least one distribution status information, "calculating control parameters related to the specific game object".

In the server device according to the twenty-ninth aspect, in the twenty-eighth aspect, "the processor includes a central processing unit (CPU), a microprocessor, and/or a graphics processing unit (GPU)".

In the server device according to the 30th aspect, in the 28th or 29th aspect, "the communication line includes the Internet".

A method according to a thirty-first aspect is a method performed by at least one processor that executes computer-readable instructions, wherein the processor performs an operation related to the distributor's operation by executing the instructions. A first video including an animation of the distributor's avatar generated based on the data or the motion data, and a first video related to the game generated based on the operation data regarding the distributor's operation using the received web page. 2 of the video from the distributor's terminal device; and the received first video or the motion data, and the second video are transmitted to a plurality of viewers via a communication line. the second moving image is extracted as a control target from among a plurality of game objects used in the game, and the second moving image is extracted as a control target from among a plurality of game objects used in the game, and the second moving image is The game object includes a specific game object for which related control parameters have been calculated based on at least one distribution status information regarding the distribution of the first video or the operation data and the second video.

In the method according to the thirty-second aspect, in the thirty-first aspect, "the processor includes a central processing unit (CPU), a microprocessor, and/or a graphics processing unit (GPU)."

In the method according to the 33rd aspect, in the 31st or 32nd aspect, "the communication line includes the Internet."

The method according to the thirty-fourth aspect is “a method performed by at least one processor that executes computer-readable instructions, wherein the processor performs an operation related to the distributor's operation by executing the instructions. A first video including an animation of the distributor's avatar generated based on the data or the motion data, and a first video related to the game generated based on the operation data regarding the distributor's operation using the received web page. A web page containing a computer program is sent to the terminal device of the distributor, which is configured to distribute the video of No. 2 to the terminal devices of multiple viewers via a communication line. The method includes the step of transmitting at least one distribution status information regarding the distribution to the terminal device of the distributor, and transmitting the information from among a plurality of game objects used in the game. , extracting a specific game object to be controlled, and calculating control parameters related to the specific game object based on the at least one distribution status information.

In the method according to the thirty-fifth aspect, in the thirty-fourth aspect, "the processor includes a central processing unit (CPU), a microprocessor, and/or a graphics processing unit (GPU)."

In the method according to the 36th aspect, in the 34th or 35th aspect, "the communication line includes the Internet."

1 Video distribution system 1
10 Terminal device 10A Distributor's terminal device 10B, 10C, 10D Viewer's terminal device 20 Server device 20A Server system 20a Distribution server device 20b First database (DB) server device 20c Second database (DB) server device 20d Gift/ Comment API server device 20B Web server device 30 Studio unit

Claims (28)

being executed by at least one processor;
A first video including an animation of the distributor's avatar generated based on the behavior data regarding the distributor's behavior or the behavior data based on the operation data regarding the distributor's operation using the received web page. Distributing the generated second video related to the game to multiple viewers' terminal devices via a communication line,
obtaining at least one distribution status information stored regarding the first video or motion data distributed in the past by the distributor ;
Extracting a specific game object to be controlled from among a plurality of game objects used in the game,
calculating control parameters related to the specific game object based on the at least one distribution status information;
A computer program that causes said processor to function. The computer program product according to claim 1, wherein the at least one distribution status information includes distribution act information regarding the distribution act of the distributor and/or distributor status information regarding the distributor. 3. The computer program according to claim 2, wherein the distribution action information includes a frequency of distribution by the distributor and/or a distribution time period in which the distribution is performed by the distributor. 4. The computer program product according to claim 3, wherein the distribution frequency is the number of days of distribution by the distributor over a predetermined number of days, and/or the total time of distribution by the distributor during the predetermined number of days. 4. The computer program according to claim 3, wherein the distribution frequency is the number of consecutive days of daily distribution by the distributor. 6. The computer program according to claim 5, wherein the distribution frequency is the number of consecutive days of distribution in the same time slot by the distributor. 4. The computer program product according to claim 3, wherein a plurality of said distribution time slots are set in advance within the same day. The distributor status information may include first transmission information transmitted from the distributor's terminal device to the viewer's terminal device via the communication line when performing the distribution act, and/or first transmission information transmitted from the distributor's terminal device to the viewer's terminal device during the distribution operation. 3. The computer program according to claim 2, wherein the computer program includes status information of the broadcaster calculated based on reception information that the viewer's terminal device receives from the viewer's terminal device via the communication line. The distributor status information is such that the distributor's terminal device, in relation to the other distributor's terminal device, identifies the first video or the operation data and the second video distributed by the other distributor. When the other distributor distributes the first video or the motion data, the other distributor's terminal device receives the first video or the motion data. The computer program according to claim 2, comprising status information of the distributor calculated based on second transmission information transmitted to the terminal device of the distributor. The computer program according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the specific game object is the game object acquired by the distributor or operated by the distributor in the game. 11. The computer program according to claim 10, wherein the specific game objects include items, equipment, points, rewards, coins, cards, characters, and/or avatars. 12. A computer program product according to any preceding claim, wherein the processor comprises a central processing unit (CPU), a microprocessor and/or a graphics processing unit (GPU). The computer program product according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the communication line includes the Internet. A communication system including a distributor's terminal device and a plurality of viewer's terminal devices,
The distributor's terminal device is
A first video including an animation of the distributor 's avatar generated based on the behavior data regarding the distributor's actions, or based on the operation data regarding the distributor's operations using the received web page. a second video related to the game generated through the communication line to the terminal devices of the plurality of viewers ;
obtaining at least one distribution status information stored regarding the first video or motion data distributed in the past by the distributor;
Extracting a specific game object to be controlled from among a plurality of game objects used in the game,
calculating control parameters related to the specific game object based on the at least one distribution status information;
It is configured as follows,
A communication system, wherein terminal devices of the plurality of viewers are configured to receive the first video or the action data, and the second video. The communication system according to claim 14 , wherein the communication line includes the Internet. A method performed by at least one processor executing computer readable instructions, the method comprising:
By the processor executing the instructions,
A first video including an animation of the distributor's avatar generated based on the behavior data regarding the distributor's behavior or the behavior data based on the operation data regarding the distributor's operation using the received web page. a step of distributing the generated second video related to the game to terminal devices of a plurality of viewers via a communication line;
acquiring at least one distribution status information stored regarding the first video or motion data distributed in the past by the distributor ;
extracting a specific game object to be controlled from among a plurality of game objects used in the game;
calculating control parameters related to the specific game object based on the at least one distribution status information;
method including. 17. The method of claim 16 , wherein the processor includes a central processing unit (CPU), a microprocessor, and/or a graphics processing unit (GPU). 18. A method according to claim 16 or 17 , wherein the communication line includes the Internet. A method performed by a communication system including a broadcaster's terminal device and a plurality of viewer's terminal devices, the method comprising:
The distributor's terminal device is
A first video including an animation of the distributor 's avatar generated based on the behavior data regarding the distributor's actions, or based on the operation data regarding the distributor's operations using the received web page. a step of distributing a second video related to the game generated via a communication line to the terminal devices of the plurality of viewers ;
acquiring at least one distribution status information stored regarding the first video or motion data distributed in the past by the distributor;
extracting a specific game object to be controlled from among a plurality of game objects used in the game;
calculating control parameters related to the specific game object based on the at least one distribution status information;
a step in which the terminal devices of the plurality of viewers receive the first video or the motion data and the second video;
including methods. 20. The method of claim 19 , wherein the communication line includes the Internet. comprising at least one processor;
The processor is
A first video including an animation of the distributor's avatar generated based on the behavior data regarding the distributor's behavior or the behavior data based on the operation data regarding the distributor's operation using the received web page. A web page containing a computer program is sent to the distributor's terminal device, which is configured to distribute the generated second video related to the game to the terminal devices of a plurality of viewers via a communication line. The page is sent via a communication line,
The computer program
The terminal device of the distributor,
acquiring at least one distribution status information stored regarding past distribution of the first video or the motion data;
Extracting a specific game object to be controlled from among a plurality of game objects used in the game,
calculating control parameters related to the specific game object based on the at least one distribution status information;
A server device that functions as follows. 22. The server device according to claim 21 , wherein the processor includes a central processing unit (CPU), a microprocessor, and/or a graphics processing unit (GPU). The server device according to claim 21 or 22 , wherein the communication line includes the Internet. A method executed by a communication system including a distributor's terminal device and a server device, the method comprising:
The distributor's terminal device is
A first video including an animation of the distributor 's avatar generated based on the behavior data regarding the distributor's actions, or based on the operation data regarding the distributor's operations using the received web page. a step of distributing a second video related to the game generated by the process to the server device ;
acquiring at least one distribution status information stored regarding the first video or motion data distributed in the past by the distributor;
extracting a specific game object to be controlled from among a plurality of game objects used in the game;
calculating control parameters related to the specific game object based on the at least one distribution status information;
The server device includes:
receiving the first moving image or the motion data and the second moving image;
a step of distributing the received first video or the motion data and the second video to terminal devices of a plurality of viewers via a communication line;
including methods. 25. The method of claim 24 , wherein the communication line includes the Internet. A method performed by at least one processor executing computer readable instructions, the method comprising:
By the processor executing the instructions,
A first video including an animation of the distributor's avatar generated based on the behavior data regarding the distributor's behavior or the behavior data based on the operation data regarding the distributor's operation using the received web page. A web page containing a computer program is sent to the distributor's terminal device, which is configured to distribute the generated second video related to the game to the terminal devices of a plurality of viewers via a communication line. transmitting the page via a communication line;
A method that includes
The computer program
The terminal device of the distributor,
acquiring at least one distribution status information stored regarding past distribution of the first video or the motion data;
Extracting a specific game object to be controlled from among a plurality of game objects used in the game,
calculating control parameters related to the specific game object based on the at least one distribution status information;
How to make it work. 27. The method of claim 26 , wherein the processor includes a central processing unit (CPU), a microprocessor, and/or a graphics processing unit (GPU). 28. A method according to claim 26 or 27 , wherein the communication line includes the Internet.