JP2007334366A - Distribution system, server, audio equipment, distribution control method, and reproduction control method - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a distribution system capable of suitably controlling distribution of program contents etc. <P>SOLUTION: When a distribution mode is for fast forward distribution, a data server increases a transfer speed, for example, twice as large, encodes a program content shown in Fig.(a) to generate stream data shown in Fig.(b), and distributes them to audio equipment. Audio equipment in a fast forward state, meanwhile, thins out the stream data distributed at the increased transfer speed from the data server as shown in Fig.(c) and outputs a musical piece sound by fast forward reproduction as shown in Fig.(d). <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2008,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a distribution system, a server, an audio device, a distribution control method, and a reproduction control method.

2. Description of the Related Art In recent years, information distribution systems that distribute music data and the like have become widespread with the speeding up of networks and the development of data compression techniques. In such an information distribution system, generally, a user uses a personal computer (personal computer) to connect to the Internet and access a predetermined music distribution site or the like. Then, the personal computer downloads the desired music data from the access destination music distribution site according to the user's operation, and reproduces the music data that has been downloaded (see, for example, Patent Document 1).
JP 2002-74814 A (page 6-7, FIG. 1)

In music distribution sites, music distribution called “streaming” is also performed, in which music data is reproduced while being sequentially received without waiting for downloading of all music data. In such music distribution by streaming, program content composed of a plurality of music data is often distributed. In other words, if the music data has a small capacity (for one music, etc.), it is not necessary for the user to wait for playback even for download distribution, but if the program content has a large capacity (data for a plurality of music etc.) This will make the user wait quite a bit.
Therefore, in many cases, such program contents are distributed by streaming that can be reproduced while being received sequentially.

In such music distribution by streaming, a user generally listens to program contents (several music data, etc.) that are sequentially distributed as they are. For example, when distribution is started between a music distribution site and a personal computer, music data and the like are unilaterally streamed from the music distribution site, and reproduction of the music data and the like is sequentially performed on the received personal computer.
In other words, in streaming distribution, once distribution is started, the contents of the program are distributed in order as if they were an existing radio broadcast program and listened to the user.

However, the conventional information distribution system that performs such streaming distribution has the following problems.
For example, if you listen to unfavorable music (such as bad music) while listening to program content that is being streamed, the user will continue to listen as if they are listening to a radio broadcast program. Or it was necessary to reduce the volume.
In addition, after listening to the program content once, when receiving the same program content again, the user has to listen to the program content from the beginning, including the music that has already been listened to. .

  As described above, in the conventional information distribution system, since the program content (a plurality of music data and the like) is only unilaterally streamed, there is no degree of freedom and it is extremely difficult for the user to use.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and an object thereof is to provide a distribution system, a server, an audio device, a distribution control method, and a reproduction control method capable of appropriately controlling distribution of program content and the like. .

In order to achieve the above object, a distribution system according to the first aspect of the present invention provides:
A distribution system in which a server and an audio device are connected via a network,
The server
Distribution means for distributing stream data according to the content to be distributed to the audio device;
Request information receiving means for receiving fast-forward request information sent from the audio device;
In response to the fast-forward request information received by the request information receiving means, the delivery control means for controlling the delivery means and delivering stream data at a high transfer rate faster than a predetermined normal transfer rate; With
The audio equipment is
Receiving means for receiving stream data distributed from the server by the distributing means;
When the receiving means receives the stream data distributed at a high transfer rate, the reproducing means for reproducing the music sound according to the data obtained by thinning the received stream data according to a predetermined rule;
Corresponding to the instruction information for instructing fast-forwarding reproduction, it comprises request information transmitting means for generating fast-forwarding request information and transmitting it to the server.
It is characterized by that.

In order to achieve the above object, a distribution system according to the second aspect of the present invention provides:
A distribution system in which a server and an audio device are connected via a network,
The server
Storage means for storing content to be distributed;
Distribution means for distributing the stream data according to the content stored in the storage means to the audio device;
Request information receiving means for receiving fast-forward request information or normal reproduction request information sent from the audio device;
When the request information receiving means receives the fast-forwarding request information, the request information receiving means controls the distributing means to distribute the stream data at a high transfer rate that is higher than a predetermined normal transfer rate. Distribution control means for controlling the distribution means to distribute the stream data at a predetermined normal transfer speed when receiving the normal reproduction request information,
The audio equipment is
Receiving means for receiving stream data distributed from the server by the distributing means;
When the receiving means receives stream data distributed at a high transfer rate, it reproduces the music sound according to the data obtained by thinning the received stream data according to a predetermined rule, and the receiving means Reproduction means for reproducing music sound according to the received stream data when stream data distributed at a transfer rate of
Request information generating means for inputting instruction information for instructing fast-forward playback or instruction information for instructing normal playback, and generating corresponding fast-forward request information or normal playback request information;
Request information transmitting means for transmitting the request information generated by the request information generating means to the server,
It is characterized by that.

In order to achieve the above object, a server according to the third aspect of the present invention provides:
A server that distributes content to audio devices connected via a network,
Storage means for storing content to be distributed;
Distribution means for distributing the stream data according to the content stored in the storage means to the audio device;
Request information receiving means for receiving fast-forward request information or normal reproduction request information sent from the audio device;
When the request information receiving means receives the fast-forwarding request information, the request information receiving means controls the distributing means to distribute the stream data at a high transfer rate that is higher than a predetermined normal transfer rate. Distribution control means for controlling the distribution means to distribute stream data at a predetermined normal transfer rate when receiving the normal reproduction request information;
It is characterized by providing.

In order to achieve the above object, an audio device according to the fourth aspect of the present invention provides:
An audio device connected via a network to a server that distributes content,
Request information generating means for inputting instruction information for instructing fast-forward playback or instruction information for instructing normal playback, and generating corresponding fast-forward request information or normal playback request information;
Request information transmitting means for transmitting the request information generated by the request information generating means to the server;
In response to the request information transmitted by the request information transmitting means, stream data distributed from the server at a higher transfer rate that is faster than a predetermined normal transfer rate, or a predetermined normal transfer rate Receiving means for receiving stream data distributed in
When the receiving means receives stream data distributed at a high transfer rate, the music is reproduced according to data obtained by thinning out the received stream data according to a predetermined rule, and the receiving means normally Reproduction means for reproducing music sound according to the received stream data when stream data distributed at a transfer rate of
It is characterized by providing.

In order to achieve the above object, a delivery control method according to the fifth aspect of the present invention provides:
A distribution control method in a server for distributing content to audio devices connected via a network,
A distribution step of distributing stream data in accordance with the content to be distributed to an audio device;
A request information receiving step for receiving fast-forward request information or normal playback request information sent from an audio device;
When the fast-forward request information is received in the request information receiving step, the distribution step is controlled so that stream data is distributed at a high transfer rate faster than a predetermined normal transfer rate, and the request information is received. A distribution control step of controlling the distribution step to distribute the stream data at a predetermined normal transfer speed when the normal reproduction request information is received in the step;
It is characterized by providing.

In order to achieve the above object, a playback control method according to the sixth aspect of the present invention provides:
A playback control method in an audio device connected via a network to a server that distributes content,
A request information generating step for inputting instruction information for instructing fast-forward playback or instruction information for instructing normal playback and generating corresponding fast-forward request information or normal playback request information;
Request information transmission step for transmitting the request information generated in the request information generation step to a server;
In response to the request information transmitted in the request information transmission step, stream data distributed from the server at a higher transfer rate that is faster than a predetermined normal transfer rate, or a predetermined normal transfer rate Receiving step for receiving stream data distributed in
When stream data distributed at a high transfer rate is received in the reception step, the music sound is reproduced according to data obtained by thinning out the received stream data according to a predetermined rule. When receiving stream data distributed at a normal transfer rate, a playback step of playing back music sound according to the received stream data;
It is characterized by providing.

  As described above, according to the present invention, it is possible to appropriately control distribution of program content and the like.

  An information distribution system according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.

  FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of an information distribution system applied to the embodiment of the present invention. As shown in the figure, this system includes an audio device 1 and a data server 3. The audio device 1 and the data server 3 are connected via a network 9 such as the Internet.

  First, the audio device 1 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of the audio device 1. As shown in the figure, the audio device 1 includes a tuner unit 11, an MD recording / reproducing unit 12, a signal processing unit 13, a network adapter 14, a hard disk 15, a flash memory 16, a timing unit 17, and an operation unit 18. A display unit 19, a control unit 20, a source selection unit 21, an amplifier 22, and a speaker 23.

  The tuner unit 11 receives a broadcast program such as AM broadcast or FM broadcast via a predetermined antenna, and supplies the received program sound to the source selection unit 21.

The MD (minidisc) recording / reproducing unit 12 is controlled by the signal processing unit 13 and records music data on the MD (recording MD).
For example, the MD recording / reproducing unit 12 is a recording / reproducing unit conforming to the NetMD (registered trademark) standard, and the music data stored in the hard disk 15 is recorded (checked out) on the MD and recorded on the MD. Return the music data to the hard disk 15 (check in).
The MD recording / reproducing unit 12 reproduces an audio signal from the music data recorded on the MD, and supplies the reproduced audio signal to the source selection unit 21.

The signal processing unit 13 includes, for example, a DSP (Digital Signal Processor) and controls the recording / reproducing operation of the MD recording / reproducing unit 12 in accordance with an operation command supplied from the control unit 20.
Further, the signal processing unit 13 extracts and decrypts music data (for example, encrypted ATRAC3 data and PCM data) stored in the hard disk 15, and reproduces an audio signal. Then, the reproduced audio signal is supplied to the source selection unit 21.
Further, when the program content (for example, stream data composed of a plurality of pieces of music data) streamed from the data server 3 is supplied, the signal processing unit 13 performs decoding and the like, and the decoded audio signal is the source selection unit. 21.

The network adapter 14 includes, for example, a LAN (Local Area Network) card, a high-speed modem, and the like, and is controlled by the control unit 20 to transmit / receive necessary information to / from the data server 3 via the network 9.
For example, the network adapter 14 transmits distribution request information for requesting distribution of program content or the like to the data server 3. In addition, program content (stream data or the like) or music data (download data or the like) distributed from the data server 3 in response to the transmitted distribution request information is received.

The hard disk 15 is composed of a magnetic disk unit having a predetermined capacity, and stores music data (download data, etc.) distributed from the data server 3.
The hard disk 15 is controlled by the control unit 20 and supplies the stored music data to the signal processing unit 13 and the like.

The flash memory 16 includes an EEPROM (Electrically Erasable and Programmable ROM) or the like, and stores a user ID, a password, a device ID, and the like.
These user IDs, passwords, and the like are appropriately read by the control unit 20 and used for user authentication when the audio device 1 first accesses the data server 3 via the network 9.

The clocking unit 17 includes a clock circuit and the like, and clocks the current date (year / month / day), the current time (hour / minute / second), and the like.
The time measuring unit 17 also has a timer function, and instructs the control unit 20 to start a predetermined operation when the set date and time comes.

The operation unit 18 includes a plurality of key switches, analog switches, and the like disposed on the front surface of the audio device 1. The operation unit 18 inputs instruction information according to a user operation and supplies the instruction information to the control unit 20.
For example, the operation unit 18 has a request key for requesting the data server 3 to distribute program content, a fast-forward key for instructing fast-forward playback of the program content to be distributed, and normal playback from fast-forward playback. A playback key or the like for instructing the return to is included.
Note that the key for instructing the return from the fast-forward reproduction to the normal reproduction is not limited to the reproduction key and is arbitrary. For example, in the fast-forward playback state, it may be instructed to return to normal playback by pressing the fast-forward key again.

The display unit 19 includes a fluorescent display tube, a liquid crystal display unit, and the like.
For example, the display unit 19 displays information such as a list of program contents (program list) that can be distributed by the data server 3, and indicates a reproduction state (fast forward reproduction, normal reproduction, etc.) of the program content to be distributed. Display symbols, etc.

  The control unit 20 includes a one-chip microcomputer including a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a ROM (Read Only Memory), and a RAM (Random Access Memory), and controls the entire audio device 1.

For example, when the request key of the operation unit 18 is pressed by the user, the control unit 20 generates distribution request information for requesting distribution of the program content and transmits it to the data server 3. Then, in response to the distribution request information, when program content (for example, stream data composed of a plurality of music data) is streamed from the data server 3, the control unit 20 receives the received program content (stream data). Are sequentially supplied to the signal processing unit 13 to output music sound and the like from the speaker 23.
Further, when the user presses the fast-forward key of the operation unit 18 during normal reproduction of the program content to be distributed by streaming, the control unit 20 generates fast-forward request information for requesting distribution of the thinned stream data, Transmit to the data server 3. When the stream data thinned out from the data server 3 is distributed in response to the fast-forwarding request information, the control unit 20 sequentially supplies the received stream data to the signal processing unit 13 to fast-forward music. Sound or the like is output from the speaker 23.
Furthermore, when the user presses the playback key of the operation unit 18 during such fast-forward playback, the control unit 20 generates return request information for requesting normal continuous stream data distribution, and the data Send to server 3. When normal continuous stream data is distributed from the data server 3 in response to the return request information, the control unit 20 supplies the received stream data to the signal processing unit 13 to reproduce the normally reproduced music. Sound or the like is output from the speaker 23.

  In addition, when music data etc. are delivered by download delivery instead of such streaming delivery, the control part 20 received the music data etc. of 1 unit (for 1 music etc.), and stored in the hard disk 15 Later, the stored music data and the like are reproduced.

  The source selection unit 21 includes an input changeover switch and the like, and is controlled by the control unit 20 to select any one of the tuner unit 11, the MD recording / playback unit 12, and the signal processing unit 13 as an input source. The source selection unit 21 supplies an audio signal output from the selected input source to the amplifier 22.

  The amplifier 22 includes a predetermined amplifier circuit and the like, amplifies the audio signal supplied via the source selection unit 21 as appropriate, and supplies the amplified audio signal to the speaker 23.

  The speaker 23 is a stereo speaker or the like, and outputs sound (musical sound or the like) according to the sound signal amplified by the amplifier 22.

  Next, the data server 3 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of the data server 3. As illustrated, the data server 3 includes a database 30, a processing control unit 41, an encoding processing unit 42, and a communication control unit 43.

The database 30 includes, for example, a content management DB 31 and a user information management DB 32.
The content management DB 31 is a database that manages program content including a plurality of music data. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 4, the content management DB 31 stores information such as a program ID, a channel number, a program name, and a storage address.
The program ID is unique identification information for specifying the program content. The channel number is a channel number assigned to a program (program content).

  The user information management DB 32 is a database that manages information about users who can access the data server 3 and use services. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 5, the user information management DB 32 sets a user ID, a password, a user name, and the like for identifying a user, a genre of a song that the user likes to listen to, a song name, an artist, and the like. Stores preference information and the like for storing.

Returning to FIG. 3, the processing control unit 41 includes a predetermined computer unit and controls the entire data server 3.
For example, when receiving the distribution request information sent from the audio device 1 via the communication control unit 43, the processing control unit 41 searches the content management DB 31 and acquires the corresponding program content (such as a plurality of music data). . Then, the acquired program content is distributed toward the audio device 1 via the communication control unit 43.
At this time, when the program content is distributed to the audio device 1 by streaming distribution, the processing control unit 41 supplies the program content acquired from the content management DB 31 to the encoding processing unit 42 according to the distribution mode.
The delivery mode is information that defines a delivery operation corresponding to a playback state (fast forward playback, normal playback, etc.) in the audio device 1. Specifically, for example, “normal distribution” or “fast-forward distribution” is set in this distribution mode, and is stored and held in a memory or the like in the processing control unit 41.

  Then, the processing control unit 41 supplies normal program content to the encoding processing unit 42 in a state where “normal distribution” is set in the distribution mode, and “fast-forward distribution” is set in the distribution mode. In this state, the program content with the data thinned out is supplied to the encoding processing unit 42.

The encoding processing unit 42 includes an encoder circuit that encodes program content (a plurality of music data and the like) in a stream data format that can be reproduced by the audio device 1 in real time.
The encoding processing unit 42 sequentially encodes the program content supplied from the processing control unit 41 into stream data, and sends the encoded program content (a plurality of music data and the like) to the audio device 1 via the communication control unit 43. To deliver.
At this time, the encoding processing unit 42 distributes normal continuous stream data to the audio device 1 in a state where normal program content is supplied from the processing control unit 41 (distribution mode: “normal distribution”). Further, the thinned stream data is distributed to the audio device 1 in a state where the program content thinned out by the data is supplied from the processing control unit 41 (distribution mode: “fast forward distribution”).
Instead of sequentially encoding the program content by the encoding processing unit 42, the program content (a plurality of music data etc.) authored for distribution in advance may be stored in the content management DB 31.

  The communication control unit 43 includes a line control device, a gateway device, and the like, and transmits / receives necessary information between the data server 3 and the audio device 1 via the network 9.

The operation of the information distribution system according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to FIG.
FIG. 6 is a flowchart for explaining a distribution request process executed by the audio device 1 and a program distribution process executed by the data server 3.
In the audio device 1, for example, after a list of programs to be distributed (program contents) is displayed on the display unit 19 and an arbitrary program is selected by the user via the operation unit 18, the control unit It is assumed that the distribution request process is executed by 20. In the data server 3, the program distribution process is executed by the process control unit 41 in response to an access from the audio device 1 via the network 9.

First, the control unit 20 of the audio device 1 generates distribution request information for requesting distribution of the selected program content, and transmits it to the data server 3 (step S11).
For example, the control unit 20 generates distribution request information including a program ID and a ch number, and requests the data server 3 to distribute the corresponding program content.
Thereafter, the control unit 20 waits for execution of subsequent processing until distribution of program content from the data server 3 is started (step S12).

On the other hand, the process control unit 41 of the data server 3 waits for reception of the distribution request information sent from the audio device 1 (step S21). When the distribution request information is received, the program ID included in the received distribution request information is received. The target program content (a plurality of music data, etc.) is read from the content management DB 31 (step S22).
The process control unit 41 sets the initial value “normal distribution” to the distribution mode managed in its own memory (step S23).

Then, the processing control unit 41 refers to the distribution mode and determines whether or not the current distribution operation status is in the fast-forward state (step S24).
If the processing control unit 41 determines that it is not in the fast-forward state (the distribution mode is “normal distribution”), the process control unit 41 controls the encoding processing unit 42 to distribute normal continuous stream data to the audio device 1. (Step S25).
Specifically, the process control unit 41 supplies the program content (program contents are a to g...) As shown in FIG. Then, as illustrated in FIG. 7B, the encoding processing unit 42 generates continuous stream data (stream packets of a to d...) And distributes them to the audio device 1.

Conversely, when it is determined in step S24 described above that the current distribution operation status is the fast-forward state (the distribution mode is “fast-forward distribution”), the processing control unit 41 controls the encoding processing unit 42. Then, the stream data thinned out according to a predetermined rule is distributed toward the audio device 1 (step S26).
Specifically, the processing control unit 41 thins out the program contents (program contents are a to g...) In FIG. 7A, and the program contents (program contents are a, c as shown in FIG. 7C). , E, g,...) Are generated and supplied to the encoding processing unit 42. Then, the encoding processing unit 42 generates the thinned stream data (stream packets of a, c, e, g,...) As shown in FIG. .
A method for generating the thinned stream data is arbitrary. For example, the encoding process unit 42 may generate stream data thinned out according to a predetermined rule in a state where normal program content is supplied.

  Returning to FIG. 6, the control unit 20 of the audio device 1 waiting for the start of distribution reproduces music data (program content) distributed from the data server 3 when the streaming distribution is started (step S13). ). That is, the control unit 20 supplies the stream data sequentially received via the network adapter 14 to the signal processing unit 13 and causes the speaker 23 to output the music sound decoded (reproduced) by the signal processing unit 13.

At this time, as shown in FIG. 7B, when continuous stream data is delivered from the data server 3, the control unit 20 sequentially supplies the received stream data to the signal processing unit 13 for normal reproduction. Is output from the speaker 23 (sounds a to d...).
Further, as shown in FIG. 7D, when the thinned stream data is distributed from the data server 3, the control unit 20 sequentially supplies the received stream data to the signal processing unit 13, and fast-forwards it. The music sound (sound of a, c, e, g,...) By reproduction is output from the speaker 23.

Returning to FIG. 6, the control unit 20 determines whether or not the fast-forward key of the operation unit 18 has been operated and a fast-forward instruction has been issued (step S <b> 14). When determining that there is no fast-forward instruction, the control unit 20 advances the processing to step S16 described later.
Conversely, if it is determined that there is a fast-forward instruction, the control unit 20 generates fast-forward request information for requesting distribution of the thinned stream data and transmits it to the data server 3 (step S15).
Note that the fast-forwarding request information is transmitted to the data server 3 only when the audio device 1 is in a normal playback state at that time, after transmitting the fast-forwarding request information to the data server 3, the audio device 1 The fast forward playback state is set. Then, the control unit 20 displays a symbol or the like indicating the fast-forward playback state on the display unit 19.

Further, the control unit 20 determines whether or not the reproduction key of the operation unit 18 is operated and an instruction to return to normal reproduction is given (step S16). When determining that there is no return instruction, the control unit 20 advances the processing to step S18 described later.
On the contrary, if it is determined that there is a return instruction, the control unit 20 generates return request information for requesting continuous stream data distribution, and transmits it to the data server 3 (step S17).
Note that the return request information is transmitted to the data server 3 only when the audio device 1 is in the fast-forward playback state at that time, after transmitting the return request information to the data server 3, the audio device 1 The normal playback state is set. Then, the control unit 20 displays a symbol or the like indicating the normal reproduction state on the display unit 19.

The control unit 20 determines whether or not the distribution of the program content has ended (step S18).
When determining that the distribution has not ended, the control unit 20 returns the process to step S13, and repeatedly executes the processes of steps S13 to S18 described above.
Conversely, if it is determined that the distribution has ended, the control unit 20 ends the distribution request process.

On the other hand, the processing control unit 41 of the data server 3 determines whether or not the fast-forward request information sent from the audio device 1 has been received (step S27). “Delivery” is set (step S28).
Further, the processing control unit 41 determines whether or not the return request information sent from the audio device 1 has been received (step S29), and sets “normal distribution” in the distribution mode only when the return request information is received. (Step S30).

The process control unit 41 determines whether or not the distribution of the program content (such as a plurality of music data) has been completed (step S31).
If the process control unit 41 determines that the distribution has not been completed, the process control unit 41 returns the process to step S24 and repeatedly executes the processes of steps S24 to S31 described above.
Conversely, if it is determined that the distribution has been completed, the process control unit 41 ends the program distribution process.

  As described above, the distribution mode of the data server 3 depends on the request information (fast-forward request information or return request information) sent from the audio device 1 by the distribution request process and the program distribution process described with reference to FIG. The data server 3 distributes stream data (normal continuous stream data or thinned stream data) according to the distribution mode. The audio device 1 outputs (reproduces) the music sound for normal reproduction or fast-forward reproduction according to the distributed stream data.

For this reason, the user who is listening to the music sound on the audio device 1 can listen to the fast-forwarding music sound by operating the fast-forward key of the operation unit 18 in a scene where fast-forward playback is desired, and normal playback is also possible. In a scene where it is desired to return to, normal music sound can be heard by operating the playback key of the operation unit 18.
As a result, it is possible to appropriately control distribution of program content and the like.

In the distribution request process and the program distribution process of FIG. 6 described above, the stream data thinned out from the data server 3 is distributed in order to realize fast-forward playback of the program content in the audio device 1. That is, the case where only the data server 3 performs distribution control to enable fast-forward playback in the audio device 1 has been described. However, the audio device 1 may also perform playback control to enable fast-forward playback. .
The operation of the information distribution system that enables fast-forward playback by performing distribution control on the data server 3 side and also performing playback control on the audio device 1 side will be described below with reference to FIG.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart for explaining another distribution request process executed by the audio device 1 and another program distribution process executed by the data server 3.
In the distribution request processing, for example, after a list of programs to be distributed (program contents) is displayed on the display unit 19 and an arbitrary program is selected by the user via the operation unit 18, the control unit 20 Shall be executed. The program distribution process is also executed by the process control unit 41 in response to an access from the audio device 1 via the network 9.
It is assumed that the control unit 20 stores and holds a playback mode that defines the playback state (fast forward playback, normal playback, etc.) of the audio device 1 in its own RAM or the like.

First, the control unit 20 of the audio device 1 generates distribution request information for requesting distribution of the selected program content, and transmits it to the data server 3 (step S41).
The control unit 20 sets the initial value “normal reproduction” to the reproduction mode managed by its own RAM (step S42).
Thereafter, the control unit 20 waits for execution of subsequent processing until distribution of program content from the data server 3 is started (step S43).

On the other hand, the processing control unit 41 of the data server 3 waits for reception of the distribution request information sent from the audio device 1 (step S61). When the distribution request information is received, the content management DB 31 according to the received distribution request information. The target program content (a plurality of music data, etc.) is read out from (step S62).
The process control unit 41 sets the initial value “normal distribution” to the distribution mode managed in its own memory (step S63).

Then, the process control unit 41 refers to the distribution mode and determines whether or not the current distribution operation is in the fast-forward state (step S64).
If the processing control unit 41 determines that the fast-forward state is not set (the distribution mode is “normal distribution”), the process control unit 41 controls the encoding processing unit 42 to transmit the stream data to the audio device at a predetermined normal transfer rate. 1 is distributed (step S65).

Conversely, if it is determined in step S64 described above that the fast-forward state is set (the delivery mode is “fast-forward delivery”), the processing control unit 41 controls the encoding processing unit 42 to control the high-speed that is defined in advance. The stream data is distributed toward the audio device 1 at a transfer speed (for example, a transfer speed that is twice the normal transfer speed) (step S66).
Specifically, the processing control unit 41 supplies program content (program content is a to i...) As shown in FIG. 9A to the encoding processing unit 42. Then, as illustrated in FIG. 9B, the encoding processing unit 42 generates, for example, stream data (a to i...) Whose transfer speed is doubled and distributes the data to the audio device 1.

Returning to FIG. 8, the control unit 20 of the audio device 1 waiting for the start of distribution refers to its own reproduction mode when streaming distribution is started, and whether or not the current reproduction operation is in the fast-forward state. Is determined (step S44).
When determining that the fast-forward state is not set (the playback mode is “normal playback”), the control unit 20 normally plays back the stream data distributed from the data server 3 at the normal transfer speed (step S45).

On the other hand, when it is determined that the fast-forward state is set (the playback mode is “fast-forward playback”), the control unit 20 thins out and reproduces the stream data distributed from the data server 3 at an increased transfer speed (step S46). ).
Specifically, the control unit 20 thins out the stream data (stream packets of a to i...) Shown in FIG. 9B sequentially received via the network adapter 14 in accordance with a predetermined rule, and then performs FIG. Stream data (stream packets of a, c, e, g, i,...) as shown in c) is generated. Then, the thinned stream data is sequentially supplied to the signal processing unit 13, and the music sound (sound of a, c, e, g, i,...) By fast-forward playback is output from the speaker 23.

Returning to FIG. 8, the control unit 20 determines whether or not the fast-forward key of the operation unit 18 is operated and a fast-forward instruction is given (step S47). When determining that there is no fast-forward instruction, the control unit 20 advances the processing to step S49 described later.
Conversely, if it is determined that a fast-forward instruction has been issued, the control unit 20 generates fast-forward request information and transmits it to the data server 3, and sets “fast-forward playback” in the playback mode (step S48).
The fast-forward request information is transmitted to the data server 3 only when the normal playback state (the playback mode is “normal playback”) at that time. Then, after “fast forward playback” is set in the playback mode, the control unit 20 displays a symbol or the like indicating the fast forward playback state on the display unit 19.

Further, the control unit 20 determines whether or not the reproduction key of the operation unit 18 is operated and an instruction to return to normal reproduction is given (step S49). When determining that there is no return instruction, the control unit 20 advances the processing to step S51 described later.
Conversely, if it is determined that there is a return instruction, the control unit 20 generates return request information and transmits it to the data server 3, and sets “normal playback” as the playback mode (step S50).
The return request information is transmitted to the data server 3 only when the fast-forward playback state (playback mode is “fast-forward playback”) at that time. Then, after “normal playback” is set as the playback mode, the control unit 20 displays a symbol or the like indicating the normal playback state on the display unit 19.

The control unit 20 determines whether or not the distribution of the program content has ended (step S51).
When determining that the distribution has not ended, the control unit 20 returns the process to step S44 and repeatedly executes the processes of steps S44 to S51 described above.
Conversely, if it is determined that the distribution has ended, the control unit 20 ends the distribution request process.

On the other hand, the process control unit 41 of the data server 3 determines whether or not the fast-forward request information sent from the audio device 1 has been received (step S67). “Delivery” is set (step S68).
Further, the process control unit 41 determines whether or not the return request information sent from the audio device 1 has been received (step S69), and sets “normal distribution” in the distribution mode only when the return request information is received. (Step S70).

The process control unit 41 determines whether or not the distribution of the program content (such as a plurality of music data) has been completed (step S71).
If the process control unit 41 determines that the distribution has not been completed, the process control unit 41 returns the process to step S64 and repeatedly executes the processes of steps S64 to S71 described above.
Conversely, if it is determined that the distribution has been completed, the process control unit 41 ends the program distribution process.

  Thus, the distribution mode of the data server 3 is switched according to the request information (fast-forward request or return request) sent from the audio device 1 by the distribution request process and the program distribution process described with reference to FIG. Stream data (stream data at a normal transfer rate or stream data at a high transfer rate) corresponding to the distribution mode is distributed from the data server 3. Then, the audio device 1 normally reproduces the music sound according to its playback mode, or skips the music sound and skips it forward.

For this reason, the user who is listening to the music sound on the audio device 1 can listen to the fast-forwarding music sound by operating the fast-forward key of the operation unit 18 in a scene where fast-forward playback is desired, and normal playback is also possible. In a scene where it is desired to return to, normal music sound can be heard by operating the playback key of the operation unit 18.
As a result, it is possible to appropriately control distribution of program content and the like.

  In the above-described embodiment, a case has been described in which thinned stream data or stream data with an increased transfer rate is distributed from the data server 3 in order to play back fast-forwarding music sound on the audio device 1. However, if the music sound is not reproduced during fast forward reproduction, the distribution from the data server 3 may be omitted during that time.

For example, referring to FIG. 6 described above, the process control unit 41 of the data server 3 distributes the thinned stream data in step S26 when it is determined in step S24 that the fast-forward state is set. Instead, the program content is skipped at a corresponding speed (speed corresponding to the thinned stream data).
Then, after receiving the return request information in step S29 and setting “normal distribution” in the distribution mode in step S30, the process control unit 41 determines in step S24 that it is not in the fast-forward state, and in step S25, Normal continuous stream data is transmitted from the position skipped to the audio device 1.

On the other hand, in step S13, the control unit 20 of the audio device 1 displays, for example, a reproduction time display (displayed on the display unit 19) even if the reproduction is stopped while the stream data is not distributed from the data server 3 in the fast-forward reproduction state. The time is set to a speed synchronized with the fast-forward playback, for example, to notify the user that the fast-forward playback operation is in progress.
Then, after receiving a return instruction in step S16 and transmitting return request information to the data server 3 in step S17, the controller 20 resumes the position after fast-forwarding when the distribution of the stream data is resumed in step S13. The reproduction of the music data and the like from is started and, for example, the reproduction time display is returned to the addition at the original speed.

Also in this case, the user who is listening to the music sound on the audio device 1 can instruct fast-forwarding by operating the fast-forward key of the operation unit 18 in a scene where fast-forwarding playback is desired. By operating the playback key of the operation unit 18 in a scene to be returned, normal music sound can be heard.
As a result, it is possible to appropriately control distribution of program content and the like.

  In the above-described embodiment, the case where the data server 3 distributes program content composed of a plurality of music data has been described, but the content to be distributed is not limited to music data and is arbitrary. For example, the data server 3 may distribute content composed of video data.

  As described above, according to the present invention, it is possible to appropriately control distribution of program content and the like.

It is a schematic diagram which shows an example of a structure of the information delivery system which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows an example of a structure of an audio equipment. It is a block diagram which shows an example of a structure of a data server. It is a schematic diagram which shows an example of the specific content of content management DB. It is a schematic diagram which shows an example of the specific content of user information management DB. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the delivery request | requirement process and program delivery process which concern on embodiment of this invention. It is a schematic diagram for demonstrating a mode that program content is delivered and reproduced, (a), (b) is a figure at the time of normal reproduction, (c), (d) is a figure at the time of fast-forward reproduction. It is. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the delivery request | requirement process and program delivery process which concern on other embodiment of this invention. (A)-(d) is a schematic diagram for demonstrating a mode until a program content is fast-forward reproduced | regenerated.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Audio equipment 11 Tuner unit 12 MD recording / reproducing unit 13 Signal processing part 14 Network adapter 15 Hard disk 16 Flash memory 17 Timekeeping unit 18 Operation part 19 Display part 20 Control part 21 Source selection part 22 Amplifier 23 Speaker 3 Data server 30 Database 31 Content Management DB
32 User information management DB
41 Processing Control Unit 42 Encoding Processing Unit 43 Communication Control Unit

Claims (6)

A distribution system in which a server and an audio device are connected via a network,
The server
Distribution means for distributing stream data according to the content to be distributed to the audio device;
Request information receiving means for receiving fast-forward request information sent from the audio device;
In response to the fast-forward request information received by the request information receiving means, the delivery means controls the delivery means to deliver stream data at a high transfer rate faster than a predetermined normal transfer rate; With
The audio equipment is
Receiving means for receiving stream data distributed from the server by the distributing means;
When the receiving means receives the stream data distributed at a high transfer rate, the reproducing means for reproducing the music sound according to the data obtained by thinning out the received stream data according to a predetermined rule;
Corresponding to the instruction information for instructing fast-forwarding reproduction, request information transmitting means for generating fast-forwarding request information and transmitting it to the server,
A distribution system characterized by that. A distribution system in which a server and an audio device are connected via a network,
The server
Storage means for storing content to be distributed;
Distribution means for distributing the stream data according to the content stored in the storage means to the audio device;
Request information receiving means for receiving fast-forward request information or normal reproduction request information sent from the audio device;
When the request information receiving means receives the fast-forwarding request information, the request information receiving means controls the distributing means to distribute the stream data at a high transfer rate that is higher than a predetermined normal transfer rate. Distribution control means for controlling the distribution means to distribute the stream data at a predetermined normal transfer speed when receiving the normal reproduction request information,
The audio equipment is
Receiving means for receiving stream data distributed from the server by the distributing means;
When the receiving means receives stream data distributed at a high transfer rate, it reproduces the music sound according to the data obtained by thinning the received stream data according to a predetermined rule, and the receiving means Reproduction means for reproducing music sound according to the received stream data when stream data distributed at a transfer rate of
Request information generating means for inputting instruction information for instructing fast-forward playback or instruction information for instructing normal playback, and generating corresponding fast-forward request information or normal playback request information;
Request information transmitting means for transmitting the request information generated by the request information generating means to the server,
A distribution system characterized by that. A server that distributes content to audio devices connected via a network,
Storage means for storing content to be distributed;
Distribution means for distributing the stream data according to the content stored in the storage means to the audio device;
Request information receiving means for receiving fast-forward request information or normal reproduction request information sent from the audio device;
When the request information receiving means receives the fast-forwarding request information, the request information receiving means controls the distributing means to distribute the stream data at a high transfer rate that is higher than a predetermined normal transfer rate. Distribution control means for controlling the distribution means to distribute stream data at a predetermined normal transfer rate when receiving the normal reproduction request information;
A server comprising: An audio device connected via a network to a server that distributes content,
Request information generating means for inputting instruction information for instructing fast-forward playback or instruction information for instructing normal playback, and generating corresponding fast-forward request information or normal playback request information;
Request information transmitting means for transmitting the request information generated by the request information generating means to the server;
In response to the request information transmitted by the request information transmitting means, stream data distributed from the server at a higher transfer rate that is faster than a predetermined normal transfer rate, or a predetermined normal transfer rate Receiving means for receiving stream data distributed in
When the receiving means receives stream data distributed at a high transfer rate, the music is reproduced according to data obtained by thinning out the received stream data according to a predetermined rule, and the receiving means normally Reproduction means for reproducing music sound according to the received stream data when stream data distributed at a transfer rate of
An audio device comprising: A distribution control method in a server for distributing content to audio devices connected via a network,
A distribution step of distributing stream data in accordance with the content to be distributed to an audio device;
A request information receiving step for receiving fast-forward request information or normal playback request information sent from an audio device;
When the fast-forward request information is received in the request information receiving step, the distribution step is controlled so that stream data is distributed at a high transfer rate faster than a predetermined normal transfer rate, and the request information is received. A distribution control step of controlling the distribution step to distribute the stream data at a predetermined normal transfer speed when the normal reproduction request information is received in the step;
A delivery control method comprising: A playback control method in an audio device connected via a network to a server that distributes content,
A request information generating step for inputting instruction information for instructing fast-forward playback or instruction information for instructing normal playback and generating corresponding fast-forward request information or normal playback request information;
Request information transmission step for transmitting the request information generated in the request information generation step to a server;
In response to the request information transmitted in the request information transmission step, stream data distributed from the server at a higher transfer rate that is faster than a predetermined normal transfer rate, or a predetermined normal transfer rate Receiving step for receiving stream data distributed in
When stream data distributed at a high transfer rate is received in the reception step, the music sound is reproduced according to data obtained by thinning out the received stream data according to a predetermined rule. When receiving stream data distributed at a normal transfer rate, a playback step of playing back music sound according to the received stream data;
A reproduction control method comprising:

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