JP7401152B1 - Content consumption reward system, content consumption reward program - Google Patents

Abstract

[Problem] When a poster who creates and posts a work posts his or her own work on a posting website, the work is made more noticeable to viewers through the poster's actions. SOLUTION: A content consumption reward system 1 displays posts by posters with large charges at the top of a website W for posting content. Viewers who view content posted on website W can send comments to the poster. When the poster selects a favorite comment from among the comments, the content consumption reward system 1 awards a reward to the viewer who posted the comment. Furthermore, viewers can support their favorite posters by paying a fee. [Selection diagram] Figure 1

Description

The present invention relates to a content consumption reward system and a content consumption reward program.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION It is common practice for creators of content such as novels to post their content on platforms on the Internet, and for viewers to freely view the content.
For example, as shown in Non-Patent Document 1, an online service for freely posting and viewing novels is known.

However, with traditional platforms, once a creator posts content, it is up to the platform's system to decide where to publish that content. Even if a creator wishes to have their content posted in a location where it can be easily viewed, the creator cannot be involved.
Since posts by already well-known contributors are generally posted in easy-to-see positions, less well-known works tend to be buried.

Another possible reason for content not being viewed is that there is no incentive to view content created by less well-known creators.

Patent Document 1 describes a content sharing system that allows multiple users to share content by publishing posted content on a network, and an evaluation system that rewards evaluators who have made evaluations. A content sharing system including a content sharing server device having a reward giving unit is disclosed.

However, the invention described in Patent Document 1 does not allow the poster to actively participate in the publication ranking.

Patent No. 6128903

Hina Project Co., Ltd., “Let’s become a novelist”, [online], [searched on September 9, 2023], Internet <URL: https://syosetu.com/>

The problem we are trying to solve is that when a poster (creator) who creates and posts content such as a novel posts his or her work on a posting website, etc., the poster's position where the work is posted is This is something I cannot get involved in.

The main feature of the present invention is that the posting position on the website is determined according to the poster's billing amount, and furthermore, the poster's billing amount is used as a source to pay a reward to the viewer.

The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and employs, for example, the following means.
That is, a poster billing reception unit that accepts poster billing, which is billing by the poster;
a submission reception unit that accepts content submissions from the billing poster;
a content publishing unit that publishes content from the poster on a content publishing website and causes the content to be shared among users including the poster and viewers;
a posting position determining unit that determines a posting position of the content on the website based on at least the amount of the poster charge;
a reward granting unit that grants a reward to the viewer who viewed the published content; and
a remuneration amount determination unit that determines the amount of the remuneration based on at least the amount of the poster charge;
To provide a content consumption reward system, which is characterized by comprising:

The content consumption reward system of the present invention determines the posting ranking according to the amount charged by the poster, which increases exposure to viewers depending on the amount charged, and rewards readers using the amount charged by the poster as a source. This has the advantage that even if the work is written by an unknown poster, it can be easily read.

1 is a diagram (network configuration diagram) showing an outline of a content consumption reward system 1. FIG. It is a diagram showing a top page screen (ranking screen) on website W. It is a figure showing a search condition screen. It is a figure showing a search result screen. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a content display screen. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a content summary display screen. It is a figure showing a user page screen. It is a figure showing a point purchase screen. It is a figure showing an item purchase screen. It is a diagram showing a remuneration application screen (first half). It is a diagram showing a remuneration application screen (second half). FIG. 2 is a sequence diagram illustrating a posting reception/publication process. It is a sequence diagram which shows reward grant processing. It is a sequence diagram which shows remuneration addition processing. 1 is a hardware configuration diagram of a server 10. FIG. 2 is a hardware configuration diagram of a poster terminal 20. FIG.

Embodiments of the present invention will be described based on the drawings. In each of the following embodiments, the same or corresponding parts may be given the same reference numerals and the description thereof may be omitted as appropriate.
Further, the drawings used below are used to explain this embodiment, and may differ from the actual device configuration, user interface (UI), database, etc.

(Summary of embodiment)
An overview of this embodiment will be explained using FIG. 1.
FIG. 1 is a diagram (network diagram) showing an overview of a system (hereinafter referred to as "content consumption reward system 1") that performs processing by the content consumption reward program P1 of the present embodiment.
The server 10 including the content consumption reward program P1 provides a platform (website W) online for posters to post works (content) and for viewers to view the posts.
In this embodiment, a case where the content is a novel will be described as an example.

The server 10 gives points to the poster in exchange for the poster's bill (poster bill). The poster posts his or her own novel (content) to the website W using the points.
The server 10, which also functions as a web server, determines the publication ranking of novels according to the billing amount (points) of the poster, and displays posts by posters with large billing amounts at the top of the list on the website W.

Readers (viewers) who have read novels posted on website W can send comments to the poster.
The poster selects a predetermined number of comments that he or she likes from among the comments. The server 10 that receives the selection gives a reward (item (fruit)) to the reader who posted the comment.
Readers can exchange their earned rewards for things like gift certificates.

Readers can also purchase points through billing (viewer billing). Readers can use their purchased points to support authors of novels they like.
Specifically, when readers use points for a novel they want to support, that novel is more likely to be ranked higher and the total reward amount increases.
In this way, website W becomes a platform that connects authors (posters) and readers (viewers). The website W of this embodiment is a reward-based novel posting site for reading.

(Details of embodiment)
The content consumption reward system 1 according to the present embodiment will be described in detail below. The content consumption reward system 1 includes a computer equipped with a content consumption reward program P1.
That is, in the content consumption reward system 1, information processing by the content consumption reward program P1 is concretely realized using hardware resources.
The content consumption reward system 1 is configured as follows: 1. User interface, 2. Program processing, 3. data, and 4. The hardware configuration will be explained in order.

(Definition of terms)
Let's define some words here.
"Contents" are creative works such as literary works, music, images, and videos. It is about entertainment and education and is different from advertising.
A "creator" is a person who creates content.
A “poster” is a person who posts content to the content consumption reward system 1. Although it is common for the poster and the content creator to be the same, this is not a limitation. For example, there may be cases where the creator who creates the content is different from the poster who posts and manages the content, or there are cases where multiple people create the content and one of them is in charge of posting.
A “viewer” is a person who views content posted to the content consumption reward system 1. For example, readers of novels, viewers of music and videos, etc. Those who apply for compensation are included in the viewers.
Note that the viewer may become the poster of another work, or the poster may become the viewer of another work.
A "user" is a user of the content consumption reward system 1, and includes a "poster" and a "viewer."
The “administrator” is a person or organization that manages the content consumption reward system 1.
“Press” means an operation on a button icon, such as a click using a mouse or a tap using a touch panel.

In the following, when it is described as "○○" process, it means that the processor of the computer executes the process based on the "○○" program stored in the program storage unit. In this paragraph, the same word is used in place of "○○".
That is, the "○○" program is a program that causes a computer to function as a "○○" means by executing the "○○" process. Further, in this case, it means that the control unit including the processor also functions as a "○○" unit (or "○○" device).
In this case, the "○○" part means to execute the "○○" process based on the "○○" program.

For example, the content consumption reward program P1 is a program that causes a computer to function as a content consumption reward means by executing content consumption reward processing. Further, at this time, the control unit 12 of the computer including the processor 122 functions as a content consumption reward unit 130 (or a content consumption reward device).
The content consumption reward section 130 includes a post acceptance/publication section 132, a reward granting section 134, and a reward adding section 136, which will be described later.

In the content consumption reward system 1, each terminal (computer) such as the poster terminal 20 and the viewer terminal 30 is equipped with a processor, but when simply referred to as a processor, it refers to a processor that performs processing according to the content consumption reward program P1. In this case, it refers to the processor 122 of the server 10.

1. User Interface First, the interface (UI) that the content consumption reward system 1 of this embodiment displays on the poster terminal 20 and the viewer terminal 30 (hereinafter referred to as "terminal, etc.") will be explained using diagrams.
The user interface described below is a simplified version of what the processor 122 displays on a browser on a terminal or the like.

Further, only icons related to functions necessary for explanation are displayed, and other well-known icons are omitted. For example, a back button for returning to the previously displayed page is omitted.

In the following, for the sake of simplicity, "the processor 122 of the server 10 receives a request from a terminal and returns data to be displayed on the browser of the terminal" will be referred to as "the processor 122 displays the data on the browser of the terminal". It may be written as "(to cause)" or "(to cause) to be displayed by the processor 122."
Similarly, "the processor 122 of the server 10 causes the data storage section 14b of the storage section 14 to save data" may be written as "the processor saves (data)" or the like.

In the content consumption reward system 1, the server 10 displays a website W that serves as a platform for posters to post their works and for readers to view the posts. In this case, server 10 functions as a web server.
The website W has general pages that can be viewed without logging in and user pages that can be viewed by logging in.
First, we will explain general pages that can be viewed without logging in.

FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a top page screen (ranking screen) on website W.
On the ranking screen, the processor 122 displays contents (here, novels) in order from the top according to the billing amount of the poster or reader (viewer). Details of the ranking algorithm will be described later.

On the ranking screen of this embodiment, the processor displays a summary display field UI-11 for each novel subtitle.
The summary display field UI-11 is a link button (rounded square part in the figure), and when the user presses the link button, the processor 122 displays a content display screen (FIG. 5), which will be described later, and displays the novel. Display the main text.
Note that the processor 122 also displays the summary display field UI-11 on the following screens, but since the design and function may differ, they are distinguished by subscripts.

As shown in FIG. 2, in the summary display field UI-11a, the processor 122 displays the novel's ranking (ranking), thumbnail image, subtitle, novel title, author name, genre, and remaining time for remuneration (displayed with a clock mark in the figure). ), the number of reward earners (apple mark), the number of comments (speech bubble mark), the amount of content (in this case, the number of characters in the novel), and the status illustration (the tree illustration at the right end of the summary display column UI-11).

The ranking is a number displayed at the left end of the summary display field UI-11a.
The thumbnail image is an image prepared and uploaded in advance by the poster. In this embodiment, it is displayed in a square frame on the right side of the ranking.

The novel title is the title of the novel, and the subtitle is the subtitle (chapter layout, heading, etc.) within the novel.
For example, if the novel title is "I am a cat," the subtitles are "1", "2", etc. included in the novel.
In the summary display field UI-11a of this embodiment, the processor 122 displays the subtitle first (on the upper side, in the upper row), and displays the novel title next (on the lower side, in the lower row).

Genre indicates the genre of the novel (for example, "romance," "different world," "science fiction," etc.). The genre is determined by the poster.

The remaining time for reward generation (clock mark) indicates the remaining time until the reward is generated. A countdown of the remaining reward generation time starts based on the poster's post, and when the reward generation remaining time reaches 0, the reward is distributed according to the amount charged for the novel. Details will be described later.
In the following, the remaining time for remuneration generation is also referred to as the "expiration date."

The number of people who can earn rewards (apple mark) indicates the number of people who can earn rewards.
The number of comments (balloon mark) indicates the number of comments regarding the content of the subtitle.
The number of people who receive rewards and the number of comments can be indicators of the novel's popularity.

The content amount indicates the amount of content. If the content is a novel as in this embodiment, the number of characters, number of pages, etc. is indicated.

The status illustration (the tree illustration at the right end of the summary display column UI-11) is an illustration of the remaining time for reward generation.
The processor 122 displays an illustration of a living tree if the above-described remaining time to generate a reward is 0, and displays an illustration of a dead tree when the remaining time to generate a reward reaches 0.

FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a search condition screen.
The user can move to the search condition screen from the top page.
On the search condition screen, the processor 122 displays search condition buttons UI-12 (genre selection button UI-12a, tag selection button UI-12b, rating selection button UI-12c), and allows readers to search for novels they want to read. Display the condition setting screen.
In FIG. 3, a diagonal line in a button icon indicates that the icon is selected (for example, a "romance" button in genre selection).

Readers can search using multiple search conditions on the search condition screen.
For example, as shown in Figure 3, the first search condition is the novel genre, the second search condition is the tag assigned by the poster, and the third search condition is the rating (age) assigned by the poster or administrator. restrictions).

In this embodiment, readers can select novel genres such as "romance," "another world," "science fiction," "youth," "fantasy," "history," "horror," "children's literature," "comedy," You can choose ``Study,'' ``Mystery,'' or ``Essay.''

Readers can also select "all genres." In this case, the reader cannot select any other specific genre. Selection meaning "all" such as "all genres" is the same in the following tag selections, so the explanation will be omitted.

In this embodiment, the readers are "romance," "another world," "science fiction," "youth," "fantasy," "history," "horror," "children's literature," "comedy," "learning," " You can select the tags ``Mystery'' or ``Essay.''

In this embodiment, the reader can select "R-15" or "R-18" as the rating.

After setting the search conditions, when the reader presses the "Search with these conditions" button, the processor searches the website W (more precisely, the database) for novels that meet the search conditions, and displays the search results screen in the next section. to be displayed.

FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a search result screen.
On the prosecution results screen, the processor 122 displays a list of search results according to the reader's search conditions, that is, novels matching the search conditions in subtitle units.

As shown in FIG. 4, on the search result screen, the processor 122 displays search conditions (number of search results, selected genre name and tag name) in the search condition display field UI-13, and also displays novels that match the search conditions. and its summary are displayed as a list in the summary display column UI-11b.

The summary display field UI-11b is a link button (rounded square part in the figure) to the next content display screen.
Note that the reader can change the search conditions by pressing the search condition change button UI-14 at the top right of the screen.

FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a content display screen.
On the content display screen of this embodiment, the processor 122 displays the content of the novel and the reader's comments regarding the novel.

As shown in FIG. 5, on the content display screen, the processor 122 displays a novel title display section UI-15, a content display section UI-16, a comment input field UI-17, a comment display field UI-18, and a content link button UI. -19 is displayed.

In the novel title display section UI-15, the processor 122 displays the title of the novel being displayed. The novel title display section UI-15 is a link button, and when the user presses this button, the processor 122 displays a content summary display screen to be described later.

In the content display section UI-16, the processor 122 displays the content of the novel. That is, processor 122 displays the text of the text file uploaded by the poster.

The comment input field UI-17 is a text box for a viewer or the like to input a comment. The processor 122 acquires the content input in the comment input field UI-17 as comment data.
Note that the processor 122 displays the comment input field UI-17 on the content display screen only when the user is logged in. Login and user pages will be described later.

The comment display field UI-18 is a field in which the processor 122 displays comments entered in the comment input field.

The content link button UI-19 is a link from the currently displayed subpage to another subpage, such as the next page or previous page. In this embodiment, the content link button UI-19 is displayed on the right side and bottom of the content display section UI-16.

In the reward granting process to be described later, the poster selects a comment to be rewarded from among the comments displayed in the comment display field UI-18.
The screen for posters who select comments and give rewards will be omitted, but if the number of comments for the number of reward earners is selected and determined within the remaining reward generation time (validity period), the processor 122 will A reward (item (fruit)) is given to the person who posted the comment.
Note that in this embodiment, it is not possible to give two or more rewards (items (fruits)) to one comment.

In this embodiment, a novel as content is displayed in HTML format based on text data posted by a poster. That is, in this embodiment, the content novel is composed of text data. Since text data has a small amount of data, it has the advantage of less communication burden and shorter display time on the viewer's terminal. The short display time allows viewers to easily enjoy the content.

Being composed of text data is not limited to being composed only of text data. For example, in addition to the text data of the main text, it may also include image data for illustrations and the like.

Further, the manner in which the novel is displayed is not limited to this, and the processor 122 may display an image (PDF image or JPG image) on which text is written.

FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a content summary display screen.
On the content summary display screen of this embodiment, the processor 122 displays detailed information and a table of contents of the novel.

As shown in FIG. 6, on the content summary display screen of this embodiment, the processor 122 displays a bibliographic item display section UI-20 and a summary display field UI-11c.
The summary display field UI-11c is a link button (rounded square part in the figure) to the content display screen.

The bibliographic item display section UI-20 displays bibliographic items of the selected novel. In this embodiment, the bibliographic item display unit UI-20 displays the title, author, genre, tag, number of followers, and summary of the novel.

The processor 122 also displays a "Follow this novel" button at the top right of the screen. When the user presses the button, processor 122 tags the displayed novel and allows the user to read the novel from the following novel list display screen.

In addition to the subtitle, the summary display field UI-11c displays the remaining time for reward generation (clock mark), number of reward earners (apple mark), number of comments (speech bubble mark), content amount (in this case, the number of characters in a novel), and status illustrations. indicate.

The processor 122 also displays a watering button UI-21 inside the summary display column UI-11c.
If the reader owns the item (water), the reader can make the tree grow by pressing the watering button UI-21. As a tree grows, the amount of items (fruit) it produces increases.
In other words, a tree has an expiry date from when it sows to when it dies, and once that expiry date has passed, the tree will produce items (fruit). Trees change the amount of items (fruit) they produce depending on the amount of items (water) they obtain within the expiration date.

For example, in this embodiment, the expiration date for a tree grown from a gold seed is one week. Only golden water is effective against trees growing from golden seeds.
The amount of items (fruit) produced within the expiration date changes depending on the amount of items (seeds) and the amount of items (water) used. The number of items (fruit) generated when five items (seeds) are used and one item (water) is used is six. The number of items (fruit) determines the number of readers who can receive rewards.

Note that in this embodiment, the status illustration is a live tree (see FIG. 6) if it is within the expiration date, and is an illustration of a dead tree (not shown) if it is after the expiration date.

Furthermore, in this embodiment, even if the expiration date has expired and the illustration of a dead tree is displayed once, if the poster uses an item (seed) for that post, the status illustration changes from a dead tree to a living tree again. You can now use the item (water). Also, when the expiration date has passed, items (fruit) will be generated for the novel.

Next, the user page will be explained.
For example, a poster who posts a work or a reader who applies for compensation creates his or her own user page.
Users such as posters and readers log in to the user page using a predetermined password.

FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a user page screen.
On the user page screen, the processor 122 displays point information held by the user (poster or reader) and menu selection buttons UI-22 for each operation.
The processor displays the points held by the user at the top of the screen. In the example of FIG. 7, the user has 20,000 points, of which 10,000 points are paid points and 10,000 points are free points. Note that the point display is the same on the following screens, so the explanation will be omitted.

In this embodiment, the menu selection buttons UI-22 displayed by the processor 122 are "edit profile", "novel being followed", "item management", "reward application", "change password", and "logout".

When the user presses the "edit profile" button, the processor 122 displays a profile editing screen for the user to edit his or her own profile (not shown).
Similarly, when the user presses the "Following novels" button, the following novels list display screen that displays a list of novels that the user is following is displayed, and when the user presses the "Change password" button, a screen for changing the login password is displayed. When the password change screen is displayed and the user presses the "logout" button, the processor 122 displays the logout screen (both not shown).

The item management screen that transitions from the "Item Management" button and the reward application screen that transitions from the "Reward Application" button will be described below.

The item management screen further includes three items: "item purchase screen", "owned item display screen", and "point purchase screen".
In this embodiment, when the user presses the "item management" button, an item purchase screen of the icon management screen is displayed (not shown). However, below, we will explain from the point purchase screen.

FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a point purchase screen of the item management screen.
Here, on the item management screen, the "item purchase | owned item | point purchase" section on the upper right side of the screen is a button containing links to the respective pages. For example, when the user presses the "Owned Items" button, the page transitions to an owned item display screen.
In FIG. 8, the currently displayed screen is shown in bold letters without underlining (the part that says "Purchase Points").

On the point purchase screen shown in FIG. 8, the processor 122 displays the points that the user can purchase and their cost.

As shown in FIG. 8, the processor 122 displays a purchase point selection button UI-23 on the point purchase screen. This example shows that 500 points can be purchased for 500 yen, 2,100 points can be purchased for 2,000 yen, and 5,500 points can be purchased for 5,000 yen.
The poster selects the number of points he or she wishes to purchase and presses the purchase point selection button UI-23.

When the poster presses the button, the processor 122 displays a confirmation screen and a payment screen (not shown), and the poster can purchase points according to the displayed content.
Note that the display and processing of the confirmation screen and the payment screen can be performed using a known method in an online shop or the like.

FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an item purchase screen of the item management screen.
On the item purchase screen, the processor 122 displays items that can be purchased by users such as posters and readers, and the number of points required for purchasing the items.

As shown in FIG. 9, the processor 122 displays an item selection button UI-24 on the item purchase screen. This example shows that apple seeds and apple water can be purchased for 100 points, silver seeds and silver water for 1,000 points, and gold seeds and gold water for 5,000 points.
The poster or reader selects the item he or she wishes to purchase and presses the item selection button UI-24.
When the poster or reader presses the button, processor 122 displays a confirmation screen (not shown), and the poster can purchase the item according to the displayed content.

FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the remuneration application screen (first half).
On the remuneration application screen, the processor 122 receives an application for remuneration from the reader, and also displays the history of remuneration and the like.

As shown in FIG. 10, the processor 122 displays an owned item (fruit) display field UI-25, a usage number selection window UI-26, a total point display field UI-27, and a reward determination button UI-28 on the reward application screen. .

The owned item (fruit) display column UI-25 displays the type and number of items (fruit) owned by the reader.
The usage number selection window UI-26 accepts input of the usage number of the item (fruit) by the reader. Readers can enter numbers directly or use the up and down icons on the right to increase or decrease the number.
The total point display field UI-27 displays the number of points for which a reward application can be made. In the example of FIG. 10, one apple, which costs 80 points each, is selected, so the total is 80 points.
The reward determination button UI-28 accepts input of the type of reward the reader would like to receive. In the example of FIG. 10, points can be exchanged for gift certificates or free points.
When the reader presses the remuneration determination button UI-28, the processor 122 displays a confirmation screen (not shown), and the poster can obtain remuneration according to the displayed content.

When the reader selects the number and type of items to be used and presses the reward determination button UI-28, the processor 122 displays a confirmation screen (not shown). The poster can receive the reward by checking the reward according to the displayed content.

FIG. 11 is a diagram showing the remuneration application screen (second half).
As shown in FIG. 11, the processor 122 displays a fruit conversion history display field UI-29 and a fruit acquisition history display field UI-30 on the reward application screen (second half).

The fruit conversion history display column UI-29 displays the date of conversion of the item (fruit) to a reward, the destination of the conversion of the item (fruit), the number of points changed due to the conversion, and the gift code.

For example, in FIG. 11, for the conversion date July 2, 2023, the user (viewer) has acquired 240 points out of the points he/she has by converting them into free points.
Furthermore, regarding the conversion date of July 6, 2023, a gift card equivalent to the 2,400 points held was acquired in the form of a gift code.

The fruit acquisition history display field UI-30 displays the acquisition date of the item (fruit) (displayed as "harvest date" in the figure), the type of the acquired item (fruit), and the title of the novel related to the acquisition of the item (fruit). The subtitle, whether the item (fruit) has been exchanged for points or gift cards, and the point conversion value (described as "P value" in the figure) of the obtained item (fruit) are displayed.

For example, in Figure 11, on the harvest day of June 30, 2023, the user (viewer) is selected as the poster for the comment he posted for the novel with the subtitle "Chapter 1" of the novel title "Novel 1", and the item Obtained "apple" among (fruits). The point value of that item (fruit) is 80 points.

With the above structure, readers (viewers) can search for novels that suit them and easily enjoy them. Additionally, if you like the novel you read, you can comment on it and support the novel by purchasing points.
Readers can receive rewards if their comments are selected by posters, allowing closer communication between readers and posters (creators).
The graphical user interface (GUI) allows readers to read the novel without stress.

2. Program processing <Content consumption reward processing>
Program processing performed in the content consumption reward system 1 of this embodiment will be described.

In this embodiment, the processor 122 performs content consumption reward processing based on the content consumption reward program P1.
The content consumption reward program P1 includes a posting acceptance publishing program P12, a reward granting program P14, a reward addition program P16, and a posting position update program P12a shown below, and the processor 122 executes the posting acceptance publishing process based on each of these programs. , remuneration grant processing, remuneration addition processing, and publication position update processing, respectively.
In addition, each of the programs P12, P14, P16, and P12a causes the computer to function as a posting acceptance/publishing means, a reward granting means, a reward adding means, and a posting position updating means by executing the various processes described above.

In the following, novels are posted in subtitle units, and rewards are determined and awarded in subtitle units. For example, it is an image of a serial novel where each episode is posted.
Further, in the following, a seed item, a water item, and a fruit item will be referred to as item (seed), item (water), and item (fruit), respectively.

When a user purchases points or items (hereinafter referred to as "points, etc."), or when a processor grants points, etc. to a user, it means that a database (point item database D11, transaction history database D12, etc.) that manages the user's points, etc. ) means that the processor 122 increases the numerical value related to points, etc.
Similarly, when a user consumes an item, it means that the processor 122 reduces the number of points, etc. in a database that manages the user's points, etc.

<2-1. Submission reception publishing process＞
The processor 122 performs posting acceptance/publication processing based on the submission acceptance/disclosure program P12.
In the posting acceptance/publishing process, the processor 122 accepts posting of content (a novel in this embodiment) from a poster and publishes it on the website W.

FIG. 12 is a sequence diagram illustrating the posting acceptance/publication process.
In this embodiment, the processor 122 starts the posting acceptance publishing process when the user presses a payment processing button related to point purchase on the point purchase screen.

Upon receiving payment from the poster (step 1), the processor 122 grants points (paid points) to the poster (step 2).
That is, the processor accepts poster billing, which is billing by the poster (poster billing acceptance process).
Note that in this embodiment, the expiration date of paid points is six months.

The poster can purchase items (seeds) by consuming points. That is, the processor 122 subtracts the points held by the poster (step 3) and gives the poster the desired item (seed) (step 4).

Here, the item used for posting content is referred to as a "first item." Here, the item (seed) is the first item.
That is, the processor 122 grants the poster the first item used for posting the content based on the poster charge (first item provision processing).

Posters can consume items (seeds) to post novels. That is, the processor 122 reduces the number of items (seeds) held by the poster, and also receives and stores data related to the novel from the poster (step 5).
In other words, the processor 122 accepts content submissions from billing contributors (posting acceptance processing).
Conversely, users who have not paid, that is, have not purchased points, cannot post.
In other words, in accordance with the present embodiment, the processor 122 receives content posting from the poster in exchange for the first item owned by the poster (an aspect of posting reception processing).

Furthermore, when the poster consumes the item (seed) and posts the novel, the processor 122 causes the timer 128 to start counting down the remaining time for reward generation.
In this embodiment, the remaining time for reward generation differs depending on the type of seed. For example, if the poster uses the item "Golden Seed" to post, the remaining time to generate the reward is one week. (The tree that grows from the item "Golden Seed" has a shelf life of one week.)

Note that in this embodiment, the number of seeds required for posting a novel is at least five. However, this minimum number of seeds can be changed by the administrator.

The processor 122 determines the publication position on the website W for the novel related to the received submission, and publishes it on the website W (step 6).
That is, the processor 122 publishes the content from the poster on a content publication website, and causes the content to be shared among users including the poster and the viewer (content publication processing).

Also, at this time, the processor 122 determines the posting position of the posted novel on the website W according to the number of points related to the item (seed) used by the poster for posting.

That is, the processor 122 determines the posting position of the content on the website W based on at least the poster charge amount (posting position determination process).

Please note that this publication position will be reviewed periodically. This is because the number of points associated with the content changes depending on the use of the item (water) described later. In this embodiment, the posting position is changed every 24 hours based on the points associated with the content. Details will be described later in section (2-4. Posting position update process).

Readers can read novels and post comments on the novels on website W. In other words, the processor 122 accepts the posting of comments by viewers regarding the content by the poster (step 7 - comment posting reception processing).
Please note that only logged in readers can post comments.

When a comment is posted by a reader, processor 122 notifies the poster (step 8).
The notification is displayed on the poster's user screen (not shown). However, the present invention is not limited to this, and if the poster's e-mail address is registered in advance, the notification may be sent to that e-mail address.

Note that when the item (seed) is used and the expiration date has arrived, and the poster uses the item (seed) again for the novel, the processor 122 executes the same process from step 5 onwards. For example, in step 6, the processor 122 changes the status illustration from a dead tree to a live tree. However, since the novel has already been published, processes such as re-publishing it are not performed in this embodiment.

As described above, the posting acceptance/publication process of this embodiment includes the poster billing acceptance process, the first item granting process, the posting acceptance process, the content publishing process, the posting position determination process, and the comment posting acceptance process.
That is, the content consumption reward program P1 including the posting acceptance publicizing program P12 uses a computer as a poster billing accepting means, a first item granting means, a posting accepting means, a content publishing means, a posting position determining means, a comment posting accepting means, function as
Further, at this time, the control unit 12 including the processor 122 functions as a submission acceptance/disclosure unit 132 (which executes submission acceptance/disclosure processing), and the submission acceptance/disclosure unit 132 includes a poster billing acceptance unit 132a, a first item granting unit 132b, a posting reception section 132c, a content publishing section 132d, a posting position determining section 132e (including a posting position updating section 132f described below), and a comment posting reception section 132g.

Through the posting acceptance publishing process, only posts by posters who have posted content (novels) by purchasing points or the like are displayed on the website W. As a result, posts that look like spam are not displayed, which improves the credibility of the poster, and also allows readers to enjoy content such as novels with peace of mind.
Furthermore, by creating a system in which points are used to purchase items (seeds), contributors can enjoy the fun of growing seed items.

<2-2. Reward granting process＞
The processor 122 performs reward grant processing based on the reward grant program P14.
In the reward granting process, the processor 122 gives a reward to the viewer who viewed the published content. In this embodiment, the poster decides which readers (viewers) are to be rewarded.
Further, the processor 122 determines the amount of the remuneration (remuneration amount) based on at least the amount of poster charge (remuneration amount determination process).

FIG. 13 is a sequence diagram showing the reward granting process.
In this embodiment, the processor 122 starts the reward granting process when the remaining reward generation time for the novel (subtitle unit) becomes 0.

The processor 122 switches the status illustration from a living tree illustration to a dead tree illustration (step 11).

In this embodiment, the processor 122 determines the amount of reward based on the type and number of items (seeds) and items (water) used for the target novel.
Specifically, we calculate the sum of the points required to purchase the used item (seed) and the points required to purchase the used item (water), and 80% of that is the reward amount. Become.

In other words, the processor 122 determines the amount of remuneration (to be given to the viewer) based on at least the poster charge amount and the viewer charge amount (step 12, one aspect of the remuneration amount determination process).

For example, a poster posts a novel using the item "Gold Seed" (5,000 points each), and three readers respond to the novel with the item "Golden Water" (5,000 points each). ,000 points) are used one by one (3 in total).
In this case, the reward amount is 32,000 points, which is 80% of 5,000×5+5,000×3=40,000 points.

The processor 122 divides this reward amount equally by the number of reward earners to determine the reward amount per reader.

In this embodiment, the number of people who receive rewards is determined by the sum of items (seeds) and items (water) used for the target novel.
In the case of the above example, the number of used items (seeds) is 5 and the number of used items (water) is 3, so the number of people who receive rewards is 8.
Since the remuneration amount is 32,000 points, this is divided into eight equal parts and each person receives 4,000 points as a remuneration.

In this embodiment, the processor 122 provides the reward as an item (fruit) that can be exchanged for a gift card or the like.

In this embodiment, "gold fruit", "silver fruit", and "apple fruit" are worth 4,000 points, 800 points, and 80 points, respectively.
This is designed to be 80% of the number of points required to purchase items (seeds) and items (water).

For example, the number of points required to purchase the item "Golden Seed" or "Golden Water" is 5,000 points, and the number of points obtained from the item "Golden Fruit" is 4,000 points.

In the above example, the target novel uses 5 items of "Golden Seeds" (5,000 points each) and 3 items of "Golden Water" (5,000 points each). Therefore, the processor 122 distributes 8 items of "Golden Fruit" (4,000 points each) to the reader as a reward.

In addition, in the above example, if the number of used items (seeds) is 5 and the number of used items (water) is 3, the number of items (fruit) distributed as rewards is 8, which is the amount of reward obtained. The number of people.

Here, an item given as a reward to a viewer (reader) who views the content (novel) is referred to as a "second item." Here, the item (fruit) becomes the second item.
In this embodiment, the processor 122 provides a second item as a reward to the viewer who has viewed the published content and posted a comment (second item provision process).
The processor 122 also determines a reward based on the poster charge and the viewer charge and distributes the second item.

Returning to FIG. 13, the poster selects a comment to which a reward will be given before a predetermined period has elapsed after the remaining time for generating the reward becomes 0. In addition, the poster selects as many comments as the number of people who receive rewards.
The processor 122 then receives the comment selected by the poster (step 13).

Note that in this embodiment, if the poster does not select a comment within the period, the processor 122 randomly determines a reward target.
Additionally, comments containing negative words will not be selected. In other words, the processor 122 excludes comments that include negative words so that they cannot be selected.

Returning to FIG. 13, upon receiving the poster's comment selection, the processor 122 gives an item (fruit) to the reader who posted the selected comment (step 14).

In other words, in the second item granting process, the processor 122 receives the poster who posted the content after a certain period of time (remuneration generation remaining time) has passed since the processor 122 accepted the poster's post in exchange for the first item. By selecting , a second item (fruit) is given to the viewer who posted the comment.
In other words, in this embodiment, a viewer can earn a reward by viewing published content, posting a comment, and having the comment selected by the poster.

The reader can apply for a reward by consuming the acquired item (fruit) on the reward application screen (step 15).
Upon receiving the reward application, the processor 122 reduces the number of items (fruit) owned by the reader and grants the reader a reward (step 16). In this embodiment, the reward that the reader receives is a gift card or free points.
Note that in this embodiment, an item (fruit) worth 200 points or more is required for remuneration application.

Here, if the reader selects free points as a reward, the reader can transfer the free points to the poster (step 17). By transferring free points, contributors can support their favorite contributors.
In this embodiment, the number of free points that can be transferred is at least 10 points, and can be transferred in units of 10 points. Furthermore, in this embodiment, paid points cannot be transferred.

As described above, the reward granting process of this embodiment includes the reward amount determining process and the second item granting process.
That is, the content consumption reward program P1 including the reward grant program P14 causes the computer to function as a reward amount determining means and a second item granting means.
At this time, the control unit 12 including the processor 122 functions as a reward granting unit 134 (which executes reward granting processing), and the reward granting unit 134 includes a reward amount determining unit 134a and a second item granting unit 134b.

Through the reward granting process, a viewer who views content such as a novel can receive a reward, which provides an incentive for the viewer to view the content.
As viewers begin to actively view content, it becomes more likely for posters to have their created content seen.
Further, the processor 122 displays the amount of reward and the like using an illustration of a fruit, so that the viewer can enjoy waiting for the reward to be given as if it were harvesting fruit.
In addition, by transacting in-system currency in the form of items rather than directly handling money, it becomes easier to bond within the community. It is also thought that psychological barriers to exchanging money can be reduced.

<2-3. Reward addition process>
The processor 122 performs a reward addition process based on the reward addition program P16.
In the reward addition process, the processor 122 accepts the consumption of points by the reader and adds the reward for the content (novel) specified by the reader.

Here, the reward addition process can be said to be a part of the reward granting process. In other words, this is a process that can be executed when a novel is posted through the posting acceptance/publishing process, a reader views the novel, and reward grant processing is possible.

FIG. 14 is a sequence diagram showing the reward addition process.
In this embodiment, the processor 122 starts the remuneration addition process when the user presses the payment processing button related to the purchase of the item (water) on the item purchase screen.

Readers can purchase items (water) by consuming points.
That is, the processor 122 reduces the points held by the reader (step 21) and grants the reader an item (water) (step 22).
In other words, the processor 122 accepts viewer billing, which is billing by the viewer (browser billing acceptance process).

Readers can consume items (water) to increase the fruits of the novels they wish to support.
That is, the processor 122 reduces the number of items (water) held by the reader (step 23) and increases the number of novel items (fruit) that the reader selects as targets (step 24).
In this embodiment, each time one item (water) is consumed for a novel to be supported, the reward (item (fruit)) for the novel increases by one.

Here, the item used to increase the second item is referred to as a "third item." Here, the item (water) is the third item.
That is, the processor 122 provides the viewer with the third item used to increase the second item based on the viewer charge (third item granting process).

In the third item granting process, the processor 122 accepts the content selection by the viewer and selects the content before a certain period of time (remuneration generation remaining time) has elapsed after receiving the post from the poster in exchange for the first item. Increase the number of linked secondary items.

Returning to FIG. 14, when the item (water) is provided, the processor 122 notifies the poster of the target novel (step 25).

As described above, the reward addition process of this embodiment includes the viewer billing acceptance process and the third item granting process.
That is, the content consumption remuneration program P1 including the remuneration addition program P16 functions as a viewer billing receiving means and a third item granting means.
Further, at this time, the control unit 12 including the processor 122 functions as a reward addition unit 136 (which executes reward addition processing). The reward adding unit 136 includes a viewer billing accepting unit 136a and a third item giving unit 136b.

The reward addition process allows readers to support their favorite novels. In particular, by simulating the act of watering the tree that the author is planting and growing, readers can enjoy the pleasure of growing the novel together.

<2-4. Posting position update process＞
The processor 122 performs a publication position update process based on the publication position update program P12a.
In the posting position update process, the processor 122 updates (determines) the posting position of the content on the website W based on the poster charge amount and the viewer charge amount for the content.
The publication position update process is one aspect of the publication position determination process described above.

In this embodiment, the processor 122 aggregates the points earned for each subtitle of all posted novels at a predetermined timing (for example, at 17:00 every day), and determines the posting position (ranking) of each novel. Update.

The points earned are the sum of points according to the item (seed) used by the poster when posting the target novel, and points according to the item (water) used by the reader in the target novel. be.

For example, assume that a poster spends five Kin no Seeds (5,000 points) to post a novel (the part related to the subtitle). Suppose that one of the readers consumes one golden water (5,000 points) for the novel.
In this case, the points for this novel (the part related to the subtitle) are 25,000 points by the poster (5,000 points x 5) and 5,000 points by the reader, for a total of 30,000 points.

In this way, the processor 122 calculates the total of the points posted by the poster and the points posted by the reader, and displays the summaries (summary display column UI-○○○a) of the novels (the part related to the subtitle) in the order of the total points. ) is displayed in ranking.

As described above, the publication position determination process of this embodiment includes the publication position update process.
That is, the content consumption reward program P1 including the publication position update program P12a causes the computer to function as a publication position update means.
Further, at this time, the control section 12 including the processor 122 functions as a publication position updating section 132f.

Through the posting position update process, the processor 122 can appropriately display the ranking when the item (Wednesday) is used after posting.
Compared to the case where the ranking is determined only based on the usage amount of the item (seed), the processor 122 can display the ranking that also takes into account the popularity of the readers who are the readers of the posted novel.

With the above-described configuration, the content consumption reward system 1 intervenes between the poster and the reader (browser), and the content consumption reward system 1 smoothly processes the publication of posts and the granting of rewards. In other words, content consumption reward system 1 provides a platform where posters can have their posts viewed by more viewers, and viewers can access many works while receiving rewards. .
In particular, since posters are charged for posting and viewers are required to post comments in order to receive rewards, content consumption reward system 1 provides active support for both posters and viewers. Call to action. This has the advantage of forming and activating a community of posters and viewers.
It is very different from traditional platforms in that it provides the opportunity to form such a community, even if the poster is an anonymous author.

3. Data Data handled by the content consumption reward system 1 of this embodiment will be explained below using figures.
The content consumption reward system 1 of this embodiment includes a server database D10 in the storage unit 14 (data storage unit 14b) of the server 10.
The server database D10 includes a point item database D11, a transaction history database D12, and a posting database D13.
Each will be explained below.

Table 1 illustrates data included in the point item database D11.
The point item database D11 is a database that stores data (point data, item data) regarding points and items (points, etc.) owned by users.

Using the point item database D11, the processor 122 can display the points, etc. held by the user on the user's terminal, and the user can check the points, etc. held by the user by looking at it.

The point item database D11 includes, as data, a unique user ID, the number of points and the number of items owned by the user.
As shown in Table 1, the point item database D11 of this embodiment includes the number of paid points (abbreviated as "paid P" in Table 1), the number of free points (free P), and the number of held points (held P). remember.
Similarly, in this embodiment, the point item database D11 has the number of items of gold seeds (seeds a), silver seeds (seeds b), apple seeds (seeds c), gold water (water a), and silver seeds. It includes the number data of each of water (water b), apple water (water c), gold fruit (fruit a), silver fruit (fruit b), and apple fruit (fruit c).

Table 2 illustrates data included in the transaction history database D12.
The transaction history database D12 is a database that stores increases and decreases in user points and items.

The transaction history database D12 allows users and administrators to track transaction history of points and items.
For example, in the present embodiment, the processor 122 displays the fruit conversion history display field UI-29 and the fruit acquisition history display field UI-30 on the reward application screen using data from the transaction history database D12.

As shown in Table 2, the transaction history database D12 of this embodiment includes data such as a unique transaction ID, a variable date that is the date when the user acquired and consumed points, a user ID, and whether the points are paid points or free points. It includes the point type indicating the point type, the number of points increased or decreased, the type and number of items increased or decreased, the amount of the gift card redeemed for the fruit, and the gift code for using the gift.

This will be explained using Table 2 as an example. Here, the users in Table 2 are the same user.
The user purchased and acquired 20,000 paid points on September 1, 2023.
Next, the user spends 3,000 points on September 2nd to purchase three silver seeds (seed B), and on September 15th, spends 5,000 points to purchase three gold seeds (seed B). I have purchased one item a).

Additionally, the user earned 1,000 free points on September 20th. This is due to free points being transferred by the reader to the user as the poster.

The user purchased apple water (water c) on September 25th by consuming 2,000 points.
Note that since the users in Table 2 purchase both seeds and water, it can be seen that they are both posters who purchase seeds and readers who purchase water.

The user applied for a reward as a reader and converted three silver fruits (fruit b) into gift cards on September 30th. Since one silver fruit is worth 800 points, the 2,400 points for three silver fruits are exchanged for a gift card worth 2,400 yen.

Table 3 illustrates data included in the posting database D13.
The posting database D13 is a database that stores data related to a certain content (novel) in units of subtitles.

Using the submission database D13, the processor 122 manages novels in subtitle units. For example, points associated with the novel with that subtitle are memorized.

As shown in Table 3, the submission database D13 contains data such as a unique submission ID, a novel title, a subtitle, the type of item (species) associated with the novel with the subtitle (hereinafter referred to as a "novel unit"), and the submission. The number of items (seeds) used by readers to post the novel unit, the number of items (water) used by readers for the novel unit, the posters that the novel unit gained from the use of items (seeds) by the poster. Points (Poster P), Viewer points (Viewer P) that the novel unit obtained from the reader's use of the item (Wed), Acquired points (Acquired P) that are the sum of submitter points and viewer points, Acquired It includes the posting order determined by the points, the remaining time for reward generation, the number of people who earned the reward (number of fruits), the number of comments, the amount of content, and the code related to the status illustration.

Although omitted in Table 3, in addition to the above data, the submission database D13 also includes data such as "novel title", "posting date of the novel unit", "last update date of the novel unit", and "the novel unit is Includes the posted URL.

This will be explained using the posting ID "100001" in Table 3 as an example.
The type of item (seed) used by the poster in posting this novel unit is "golden seeds", and the number of items used is eight. As a result, the poster points are 5,000×8=40,000 points.
Furthermore, the number of items (water) used by the reader for this post is 2, and the viewer points resulting from this are 5,000×2=10,000 points.
Therefore, the points acquired by this post are 40,000+10,000=50,000 points.
The ranking is determined by the points obtained.

The number of reward earners (number of fruits) is 10, which is the sum of 8, which is the number of items (seeds) used, and 2, which is the number of items (water) used.

The number of reward earners, the number of fruits, the number of comments, and the amount of content are reflected by the processor 122 in the above-mentioned summary display column UI-11.

With the above configuration, the server database D10 stores a large amount of user data, data related to postings, data related to items, etc., so that the processor 122 can perform screen display that is more convenient for the user. can.
For example, the remuneration application screen (second half) in FIG. 11 is an example.

4. Hardware Configuration As shown in FIG. 1, the content consumption reward system 1 in this embodiment includes a server 10, a poster terminal 20, and a viewer terminal 30. Further, each of these devices is connected via a network N. The network N is, for example, the Internet.
The server 10 includes a content consumption reward program P1. Further, software (application software) for operating the content consumption reward system 1 according to the present embodiment is installed in the server 10, and various processes are executed by the functions of the software.
Each piece of hardware will be explained below.

<Server 10>
The server 10 is a computer for executing the content consumption reward program P1.
Although only one server 10 is shown in FIG. 1, the number is not limited to one and may be realized by a plurality of servers.
For example, the server that processes billing from posters and remuneration payments to viewers (readers) and the web server that displays the website may be separate servers.
Further, from the viewpoint of load distribution and availability, a plurality of servers may be used.

FIG. 15 is a hardware configuration diagram of the server 10.
As shown in FIG. 15, the server 10 includes a control section 12, a storage section 14, and a communication control section 16.
The control unit 12 also includes a processor 122, a ROM 124, a RAM 126, and a timer 128. The basic functions of each will be explained later.

The processor 122 also functions as a content consumption reward unit 130 in the server 10 (not shown). The content consumption reward unit 130 executes the content consumption reward program P1 to perform content consumption reward processing.

Further, one program may include another program. For example, in the present embodiment, the content consumption reward program P1 includes a posting acceptance public program P12, a reward granting program P14, a reward addition program P16, and the like.

As shown in FIG. 15, the storage unit 14 includes a program storage unit 14a and a data storage unit 14b, and includes programs and data necessary for various processes.
For example, in addition to the content consumption reward program P1 according to the present embodiment, the program storage unit 14a may contain a control program for controlling devices connected to the server 10, such as a communication control program for controlling the communication control unit 16. is stored.

The communication control unit 16 is a device for communicating between the server 10 and an external terminal or the like. The external terminal is, for example, a poster terminal 20, which will be described later. As shown in FIG. 1, the communication control unit 16 connects the server 10 to the network N.

In addition to the above, the server 10 may also include an input unit (for example, a keyboard) for inputting commands and data, an output unit (for example, a voice output device) for outputting information in some form, etc. (not shown). Further, it may include a device additionally required for the purpose of the present embodiment or a device for improving convenience for the purpose of the present embodiment.

<Poster terminal 20>
The poster terminal 20 is an information processing device for a poster to use the content consumption reward system 1. A poster uses the poster terminal 20 to post his or her own work.

In this embodiment, the poster terminal 20 is a desktop PC. However, the poster terminal 20 is not limited to this, and may be a portable terminal such as a smartphone or a tablet.

FIG. 16 is a hardware configuration diagram of the poster terminal 20. As shown in FIG.
As shown in FIG. 16, the poster terminal 20 includes a control section 22, a storage section 24, a communication control section 26, and an input/output section 28.
Like the control unit 12 of the server 10, the control unit 22 includes a processor (processor 222), a ROM, a RAM, and a timer. These basic functions will be described later. However, descriptions of functions of each part that overlap with those already explained will be omitted.

A browser for viewing the website W according to the present embodiment is stored (installed) in the program storage unit 24a of the poster terminal 20, and the processor 222 receives various operations on the browser by the poster. Executes various processes.

The various processes include output (screen display, audio output) based on information acquired from the server 10, reception of user input, and various communications.

The communication control unit 26 is a device for communicating between the poster terminal 20 and an external terminal or the like. The external terminal or the like is, for example, the server 10. As shown in FIG. 1, the communication control unit 26 connects the poster terminal 20 to the network N.

<Viewer terminal 30>
The viewer terminal 30 is an information processing device for a viewer (reader) to use the content consumption reward system 1.
A reader uses the viewer terminal 30 to read the posted novel. Further, the reader uses the viewer terminal 30 to apply for remuneration.

In this embodiment, the viewer terminal 30 is the reader's desktop PC. However, the viewer terminal 30 is not limited to this, and may be a portable terminal such as a smartphone or a tablet.
A browser for viewing the website W according to this embodiment is stored (installed) in the viewer terminal 30.
The viewer terminal 30 also includes a control section, a storage section, a communication control section, and an input/output section. Regarding the functions of each part, descriptions that overlap with those already explained will be omitted.

(Explanation regarding basic functions of a computer)
The control section (processor, ROM, RAM, time measurement section), storage section, communication control section, input section, and output section will be explained below.
Note that in any of the terminals of this embodiment, the connection mode (network topology) between functional units is not particularly limited. For example, it may be a bus type, a star type, a mesh type, or the like.

The processor processes information and controls various devices according to programs stored in a ROM, a storage unit, or the like. In this embodiment, the processor is a CPU (Central Processing Unit).

However, the processor is not limited to a CPU. Various processors such as a CPU, a digital signal unit (DSP), a graphics processing unit (GPU), or a general purpose computing on GPU (GPGPU) may be used alone or in combination.
For example, a processor that integrates a CPU and a GPU is called an APU (Accelerated Processing Unit), and such a processor may also be used.

The ROM is a read-only memory in which various programs and data for a processor to perform various controls and calculations are stored in advance.

RAM is random access memory used by processors as working memory. In this RAM, various areas can be secured for performing various processes of this embodiment.

The timekeeping unit performs timekeeping processing related to acquisition of time information and the like. If the computer includes a communication control unit, time information may be acquired from the outside using NTP (Network Time Protocol).

The storage unit is a device for storing information such as programs and data. The storage unit is also referred to as storage. It does not matter whether the storage unit is built-in or external.

The storage unit includes a storage medium on which data can be read and written, and a drive that reads and writes data on the storage medium.
Examples of storage media include built-in and external types, such as HD (hard disk), CD-ROM, and flash memory.
Examples of the drive include an HDD (hard disk drive) and an SSD (solid state drive).

The storage section includes a program storage section and a data storage section as functional sections.
The program storage unit stores control programs for controlling various devices, such as a communication control program for controlling communication.

The communication control unit is a device for communicating between terminals and the like. The communication control unit connects the terminal including the communication control unit to the network N.

The communication method of the communication control unit is a known method, and a wired method or a wireless method is applied depending on the device.
For example, if the terminal is a desktop PC, both wired and wireless communication methods are possible, and if the terminal is a smartphone, wireless communication methods are possible.

If it is a wired communication method, for example, the communication method specified by IEEE 802.3 (e.g., bus type or star type wired LAN) can be suitably used. ) may be used.

For wireless communication, for example, communication methods defined by IEEE802.11 (e.g. Wi-Fi) can be suitably used; A communication method defined by optical communication such as IEEE 802.16 (eg, WiMAX), or infrared communication may be used.

The input unit and the output unit are devices that respectively perform input and output to the terminal. The input section and the output section may be collectively referred to as an input/output section.
The input unit is a device that receives input from the user. Examples of such an input unit include a keyboard, a mouse as a pointing device, a track pad, a tablet, or a touch panel.

When the terminal is a tablet, a smartphone, etc., and the input section is a touch panel, the input section is arranged on the surface of the display section, such as a touch screen, that displays images and the like. In this case, the input unit specifies the user's touch position corresponding to the various operation icons displayed on the display unit, and receives input from the user.

The output unit is, for example, a device for outputting images, audio, forms, and the like.
Examples of the output unit include a display device such as a touch screen or a display (liquid crystal display or organic EL display), an audio output device such as a speaker, and a form output device such as a printer.

With the above configuration, the server 10 provides a platform for posters and readers in the form of website W, and also executes various processes related to novel posting management, comment posting management, and awarding of points, etc. Supporting smooth communication between authors and readers. This allows posters to post novels using their personal computers, smartphones, and other terminals, and readers to easily enjoy novels using their own smartphones and other terminals.

(Modified example)
The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, but includes various modifications to the above-described embodiments without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

In the search condition screen (Fig. 3) of the embodiment described above, the reader could select a tag that overlaps with the genre name (such as "romance" or "another world") as the content tag. Not limited.
For example, the tag options may be tags related to the image of the novel, such as "bright,""fun,""refreshing,""scary,""cry-inducing," and "moving."

In addition, the search conditions may be other than the above-mentioned three (genre, tag, and rating), and there may be two or more types of tags. For example, tags different from the above may include age-specific tags such as "for teenagers" and "for people in their 20s."

Furthermore, the search condition screen may be one that allows searching using keywords. For example, it may be possible to search novel titles, author names, etc. using keywords. At this time, the keyword search may be one that allows partial search in addition to exact match search.
In addition, the search using the search condition screen may be performed by combining keywords and tags.
By arranging the search condition screen as described above (search using different types of tags, keyword search, etc.), convenience for viewers is improved.

Setting the search condition screen as described above has the advantage of improving search convenience for the reader and making it easier for the reader to find the novel he/she desires.

In the embodiments described above, illustrations of trees and items of seeds, water, and fruit are used, but the present invention is not limited to this.
For example, the growth of an organism may be expressed instead of the growth of a tree. For example, instead of illustrations of trees, illustrations of characters such as real (such as dogs and cats) or imaginary (such as dragons and monsters) creatures may be used, and instead of items such as seeds, water, and fruits. It can also be eggs, food, and presents (from the character).
Also, instead of the growth of a tree, some inorganic object or concept, such as the development of a city, may be expressed. As an example, an illustration of a city may be used instead of an illustration of a tree, and an undeveloped city, investment, and return may be used instead of items such as seeds, water, and fruit.
However, a tree that bears fruit is more preferable in terms of the image of growing a tree together, bearing fruit, and sharing multiple fruits with everyone.

In the publication position update process of the embodiment described above, the processor 122 calculates the points that have been acquired (points corresponding to the item (seed) used by the poster when posting the target novel, and points used by the reader for the target novel. Although the ranking is determined based on the sum of points for each item (Wed), the calculation formula is not limited to this.
For example, points by the poster (points according to the item (species) the poster used when posting the target novel) or points by the reader (points according to the item (water) the reader used in the target novel) ) may be weighted.
For example, by giving more weight to the points given by readers (for example, by multiplying the points given by readers by 1.2), it is possible to display a ranking that better reflects the popularity of readers.

In the embodiment described above, if the poster does not select a comment within the period, the processor 122 randomly determines the reward target, but the present invention is not limited to this.
For example, if the poster does not select a comment within the period, the oldest comment may be eligible for remuneration.
Further, suitable comments may be automatically selected using artificial intelligence.

In the embodiments described above, the viewer can earn a reward by viewing the published content, posting a comment, and having the comment selected by the poster, but is not limited to this. .
For example, rewards may be given to some or all of the viewers who viewed the content, or to some or all of the viewers who viewed the content and posted comments.
In this case, although the amount of remuneration per person is smaller, many viewers can receive remuneration, so the community can become more active.

In the embodiment described above, the reward is an item on the website W that can be exchanged for a gift certificate or the like, but the reward is not limited to this.
Direct rewards such as gift certificates may be used instead of using items. In this case, the advantage is that the reward can be more clearly defined.
Further, the reward may be various data such as audio, image, video, etc., such as image data of a unique illustration. In addition, currency used within the community, points for ranking, etc. may also be used. In other words, various rights such as the right to download data and the right to be displayed high in rankings can be rewards.

In other words, the invention including this embodiment has the following features. The following corresponds to the scope of claims as of the filing of this application. However, due to amendments to the scope of claims after filing, the description of the scope of claims may differ from the amended scope of claims.
(1) The first invention includes a poster billing reception unit that accepts poster billing that is billing by the poster;
a submission reception unit that accepts content submissions from the billing poster;
a content publishing unit that publishes content from the poster on a content publishing website and causes the content to be shared among users including the poster and viewers;
a posting position determining unit that determines a posting position of the content on the website based on at least the amount of the poster charge;
a reward granting unit that grants a reward to the viewer who viewed the published content; and
a remuneration amount determination unit that determines the amount of the remuneration based on at least the amount of the poster charge;
To provide a content consumption reward system, which is characterized by comprising:
(2) The second invention further includes a viewer billing reception unit that accepts viewer billing that is billing by the viewer,
The remuneration amount determining unit is a remuneration amount determining unit that determines the remuneration amount based on at least the amount of the poster charge and the amount of the viewer charge. Provides a content consumption reward system.
In this case, since the viewer can increase the amount of remuneration, the viewer can support the poster he/she likes. This facilitates communication between posters and viewers.
(3) The third invention is characterized in that the posting position determination unit updates the posting position of the content on the website based on the amount of the poster charge and the amount of the viewer charge. , provides a content consumption reward system according to the second invention.
In this case, since the amount charged by the viewer is related to the publication position (ranking) on the website (website W), the ranking can reflect the popularity of the viewer. Viewers can earn rewards by viewing not only content for which the poster charges a large amount, but also content that is highly popular.
(4) The fourth invention further includes a first item granting unit that grants the poster a first item to be used for posting content based on the poster charge,
The posting reception unit is a posting reception unit that receives content posting from the poster in exchange for the first item owned by the poster.
A content consumption reward system according to the second invention is provided.
In this case, by using a medium called an item, the poster can enjoy billing and posting. For example, by simulating the action of planting seeds using the first item (item (seed)), the poster can enjoy the fun of growing seeds and, by extension, growing content.
(5) The fifth invention further includes a comment posting reception unit that receives comments from the viewer regarding the content of the poster,
The reward granting unit is a second item granting unit that grants a second item as a reward to the viewer who has viewed the published content and posted a comment;
The second item providing unit posts the comment according to the selection of the poster who posted the content after a certain period of time has passed since receiving the post from the poster in exchange for the first item. There is provided a content consumption reward system according to the fourth invention, characterized in that the second item is given to the viewer.
In this case, the poster can see the comments from the viewers, allowing communication between the poster and the viewers. In addition, since the viewer will ultimately receive a reward in the form of a second item (item (fruit)), the viewer can enjoy growing the work together with the poster and other viewers. Furthermore, since rewards are only given after an active action such as posting a comment, there is an advantage of closer communication between posters and viewers.
(6) The sixth invention further includes a third item granting unit that grants the viewer a third item to be used for increasing the second item based on the viewer charge,
The third item providing unit receives the content selection by the viewer and selects the second item linked to the content before a certain period of time has elapsed since receiving the post from the poster in exchange for the first item. There is provided a content consumption reward system according to the fifth invention, characterized in that the number of content consumption rewards is increased.
In this case, the viewer can be actively involved in developing the work by increasing the amount of remuneration, which has the advantage of closer communication between the poster and the viewer.
(7) A seventh invention is the content consumption according to the first invention or the second invention, wherein the content is a reading material including at least a novel, and the reading material is composed of text data. Provide a reward system.
In this case, since the amount of text data is small, the communication burden is small, and as a result, there is an advantage that the time required for display on the viewer terminal 20 is short. Because it takes a short time to display, it has the advantage of being easier to enjoy than other content such as videos.
(8) The eighth invention includes a poster billing receiving means for accepting poster billing, which is billing by the poster, using the computer;
first item granting means for granting a first item to be used for posting content to the poster based on the poster charge;
a posting reception means for receiving content posting from the poster in exchange for the first item held by the poster;
Content publishing means for publishing content from the poster on a content publishing website and allowing the content to be shared among users including the poster and viewers;
a viewer billing reception means for accepting viewer billing, which is billing by the viewer;
Posting position determining means for determining a posting position of the content on the website based on the poster charge amount and the viewer charge amount;
comment posting reception means for accepting comments posted by the viewer on the content of the poster;
a second item granting means for granting a second item as a reward to the viewer who has viewed the published content and posted a comment;
a third item granting unit that grants the viewer a third item to be used for increasing the second item based on the viewer charge; and
functioning as a remuneration amount determining means that determines the amount of remuneration based on the amount of the poster charge and the amount of the viewer charge;
The second item providing means posts the comment according to the selection of the poster who posted the content after a certain period of time has passed since receiving the post from the poster in exchange for the first item. Grant a second item to the viewer,
The third item providing means receives the content selection by the viewer and selects the second item linked to the content before a certain period of time has elapsed since receiving the post from the poster in exchange for the first item. To provide a content consumption reward program characterized by increasing the number of content consumption rewards.

It can be applied not only to novels but also as a platform for posting and viewing various types of educational and entertainment content (written content, audio content, image content, video content, etc.).

1 Content consumption reward system 10 Server 12 Control unit 122 Processor 124 ROM
126 RAM
128 Timing section 130 Content consumption reward section 132 Posting reception publishing section 132a Poster billing reception section 132b First item giving section 132c Posting reception section 132d Content publishing section 132e Posting position determining section 132f Posting position updating section 132g Comment posting receiving section 134 Reward Giving unit 134a Reward amount determining unit 134b Second item giving unit 136 Reward adding unit 136a Viewer charge accepting unit 136b Third item giving unit 14 Storage unit 14a Program storage unit 14b Data storage unit 16 Communication control unit 18 Input/output unit 20 Posting User terminal 22 Control unit 222 Processor 24 Storage unit 26 Communication control unit 28 Input/output unit 30 Viewer terminal UI-11 Summary display field UI-12 Search condition button UI-13 Search condition display field UI-14 Search condition change button UI- 15 Novel title display section UI-16 Content display section UI-17 Comment input field UI-18 Comment display field UI-19 Content link button UI-20 Bibliography display section UI-21 Watering button UI-22 Menu selection button UI-23 Purchase point selection button UI-24 Item selection button UI-25 Owned item (fruit) display field UI-26 Usage number selection window UI-27 Total point display field UI-28 Reward determination button UI-29 Fruit conversion history display field UI- 30 Fruit acquisition history display field P1 Content consumption reward program P12 Submission acceptance public program P12a Posting position update program P14 Reward granting program P16 Reward addition program D10 Server database D11 Point item database D12 Transaction history database D13 Posting database

Claims (8)

a poster billing reception unit that accepts poster billing, which is billing by the poster;
a submission reception unit that accepts content submissions from the billing poster;
a content publishing unit that publishes content from the poster on a content publishing website and causes the content to be shared among users including the poster and viewers;
a posting position determining unit that determines a posting position of the content on the website based on at least the amount of the poster charge;
a reward granting unit that grants a reward to the viewer who viewed the published content; and
a remuneration amount determination unit that determines the amount of the remuneration based on at least the amount of the poster charge;
A content consumption reward system comprising: Furthermore, it is equipped with a viewer billing reception unit that accepts viewer billing that is billed by the viewer.
The remuneration amount determining unit is a remuneration amount determining unit that determines the remuneration amount based on at least the amount of the poster charge and the amount of the viewer charge,
The content consumption reward system according to claim 1. The publication position determination unit updates the publication position of the content on the website based on the poster charge amount and the viewer charge amount.
The content consumption reward system according to claim 2. further comprising a first item granting unit that grants the poster a first item to be used for posting content based on the poster charge;
The posting reception unit is a posting reception unit that receives content posting from the poster in exchange for the first item owned by the poster.
The content consumption reward system according to claim 2. Further, it includes a comment posting reception unit that receives comments posted by the viewer regarding the content of the poster,
The reward granting unit is a second item granting unit that grants a second item as a reward to the viewer who has viewed the published content and posted a comment;
The second item providing unit posts the comment according to the selection of the poster who posted the content after a certain period of time has passed since receiving the post from the poster in exchange for the first item. characterized by giving a second item to the viewer,
The content consumption reward system according to claim 4. Furthermore, a third item granting unit is provided that grants the viewer a third item to be used for increasing the second item based on the viewer charge,
The third item providing unit receives the content selection by the viewer and selects the second item linked to the content before a certain period of time has elapsed since receiving the post from the poster in exchange for the first item. characterized by increasing the number of
The content consumption reward system according to claim 5. The content is a reading material including at least a novel, and the reading material is composed of text data.
The content consumption reward system according to claim 1 or claim 2. computer,
a poster billing reception means for accepting poster billing, which is billing by the poster;
first item granting means for granting a first item to be used for posting content to the poster based on the poster charge;
a posting reception means for receiving content posting from the poster in exchange for the first item held by the poster;
Content publishing means for publishing content from the poster on a content publishing website and allowing the content to be shared among users including the poster and viewers;
a viewer billing reception means for accepting viewer billing, which is billing by the viewer;
Posting position determining means for determining a posting position of the content on the website based on the poster charge amount and the viewer charge amount;
comment posting reception means for accepting comments posted by the viewer on the content of the poster;
a second item granting means for granting a second item as a reward to the viewer who has viewed the published content and posted a comment;
a third item granting unit that grants the viewer a third item to be used for increasing the second item based on the viewer charge; and
remuneration amount determining means for determining the amount of remuneration based on the amount of the poster charge and the amount of the viewer charge;
function as
The second item providing means posts the comment according to the selection of the poster who posted the content after a certain period of time has passed since receiving the post from the poster in exchange for the first item. Grant a second item to the viewer,
The third item providing means receives the selection of content by the viewer and selects the second item linked to the content before a certain period of time has elapsed after receiving the post from the poster in exchange for the first item. A content consumption reward program characterized by increasing the number of content consumption rewards.

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