JP2008311795A - Content distribution system, distribution server, accepting station and computer program - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a content distribution system capable of simultaneously conducting the reproduction of a streaming data and the conservation of a conservation data because a streaming reproduction can be conducted in a quality mode corresponding to the receiving status of a content data, a distribution server, an accepting station and a computer program. <P>SOLUTION: The content data contains a streaming data for reproducing the content data while receiving the content data by the accepting station and the conservation data for conserving the data to the accepting station. The content distribution system has a distribution section distributing the streaming data and the conservation data and a quality-mode acquiring section acquiring the quality mode of the content data made to correspond to the quantity of data of the content data on the basis of the receiving status at a time when the accepting station receives the streaming data or the conservation data. The distribution section distributes the steaming data to the accepting station in the quality mode acquired by the quality-mode acquiring section when the streaming data is distributed at the accepting station. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2009,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a content distribution system, a distribution server, a receiving terminal, and a computer program.

  In recent years, content distribution services in which content data, for example, data such as movies, music, sports, and software are distributed via a network such as the Internet are used.

  A content distribution service generally includes a distribution server and a user terminal connected to a network. The distribution server stores a plurality of content data, and distributes the content data in response to access from the user terminal. On the other hand, the user terminal downloads content data from the distribution server by accessing the distribution server via the network. For example, a user can access a distribution server by operating a user terminal, and can download content data from the distribution server.

  As a technique for downloading data from a server to a terminal, for example, Patent Document 1 discloses a technique for efficiently distributing content data so that the reproduction of the content data is not interrupted.

JP 2006-109099 A

  By the way, the content data reproduction method in the user terminal is usually a saved data reproduction method in which all data of one content data is downloaded and all data is stored in the storage unit of the terminal and then reproduction is started. In addition, there is a streaming reproduction method in which downloaded data is temporarily stored and reproduction of the data is started immediately.

  The stored data reproduction method waits for completion of downloading of all data, and thus can be reproduced regardless of the transmission speed of content data. However, a storage unit having a sufficient capacity is required for the terminal. On the other hand, the streaming playback method generally does not store all data in the storage unit of the terminal, so that the content data can be viewed without reducing the remaining capacity of the storage unit of the terminal. However, since the streaming reproduction method reproduces the downloaded data immediately, there is a problem that the reproduction is interrupted because there is not enough data necessary for reproduction when the data transmission speed becomes slow due to the network line condition or the like. In other words, the streaming playback method requires a network having a bandwidth higher than the data transmission speed in order to prevent the playback from being interrupted. However, depending on the user, the content distribution service may be used not on the high-speed line but on the low-speed line, and it is preferable that a service similar to the high-speed line can be realized even on the low-speed line.

  In addition, when another device connected to the network occupies most of the bandwidth on the network, there is a problem in that the user terminal cannot be normally streamed due to this influence.

  As a method for preferentially transmitting content data, there is a QoS (Quality of Service) guarantee. In general, QoS gives priority to high-priority packets by assigning priorities to several types of data such as IP telephone, video, and normal transmission in the packet header. However, if the priority of the content for download is increased, transmission of the content for streaming playback is hindered, so that there is a problem that the real-time property of streaming playback is impaired.

  Furthermore, if data storage and immediate playback are performed simultaneously in one content, only the data portion where the storage has been completed can be played back, chapter moved, or the like. For this reason, the data portion that is not stored in the terminal cannot be played back or the chapter moved.

  In general, playback control of content data requires high processing capability in a playback device such as a terminal. Therefore, depending on the terminal device, it has been impossible to simultaneously download high-quality storage content data with a large data capacity and high-quality streaming playback.

  Therefore, the present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and an object of the present invention is to perform streaming playback in a quality mode according to the reception status of content data. And a new and improved content distribution system, distribution server, receiving terminal, and computer program capable of simultaneously storing stored data.

  In order to solve the above problems, according to an aspect of the present invention, in a content distribution system in a network in which a distribution server that distributes content data and a receiving terminal that receives the content data and reproduces the content data are connected. The data includes streaming data for the receiving terminal to reproduce while receiving the content data, and storage data for storing the data in the receiving terminal, and the distribution server includes a distribution unit that distributes the streaming data and the storage data. A receiving terminal that receives streaming data and stored data distributed from the distributing unit, a streaming control unit that reproduces streaming data received by the receiving unit, and data that stores the stored data received by the receiving unit Including a storage unit, distribution server or reception At the end, the reception status measurement unit that measures the reception status when the reception unit receives streaming data or stored data, and the content data quality corresponding to the data amount of the content data based on the measurement result of the reception status measurement unit A quality determining unit for determining a mode, and the distribution unit distributes the streaming data to the receiving terminal in the quality mode determined by the quality determining unit when distributing the streaming data to the receiving terminal. A system is provided.

  With this configuration, the quality of the streaming data to be distributed is determined according to the reception status of the receiving unit. Therefore, the receiving terminal connected to the low-speed line can reproduce the streaming data while storing the stored data.

  When the reception status measurement unit determines that reception of streaming data or stored data at the reception unit is slower than a predetermined rate, the quality determination unit selects a quality mode with a small amount of data, and the distribution unit selects data The streaming data of the quality mode with a small amount may be distributed.

  When the reception status measurement unit determines that reception of streaming data or stored data at the reception unit is faster than a predetermined rate, the quality determination unit selects a quality mode with a large amount of data, and the distribution unit selects data A large amount of quality mode streaming data may be distributed.

  The reception status may be such that the reception of streaming data or stored data at the receiving unit is slower than a predetermined rate when the processing capability when the distributing unit distributes the content data decreases. With this configuration, when the processing capacity of the distribution server is insufficient, the streaming data can be smoothly reproduced by changing the streaming data to the low quality side.

  In order to solve the above problem, according to another aspect of the present invention, a distribution server that receives content data and distributes the content data to the receiving terminal via a network connected to the receiving terminal that reproduces the content data The content data includes streaming data for the receiving terminal to play while receiving the content data and storage data for storing the data in the receiving terminal, and a distribution unit for distributing the streaming data and the storage data; A quality mode acquisition unit that acquires a quality mode of content data corresponding to the data amount of the content data based on a reception situation when the reception terminal receives streaming data or stored data, and the distribution unit includes the reception terminal Acquired by the quality mode acquisition unit when streaming data is distributed to Distribution server, characterized in that delivering streaming data to the receiving terminal is provided with quality mode.

  The quality mode acquisition unit acquires a quality mode with a small amount of data when it is determined that reception of streaming data or stored data at the receiving terminal is slower than a predetermined speed as a result of the measured reception status, and distributes the quality mode The unit may distribute streaming data in a quality mode with a small amount of data.

  The quality mode acquisition unit acquires a quality mode with a large amount of data when it is determined that the reception of streaming data or stored data at the receiving terminal is faster than a predetermined speed as a result of the measured reception status, and distributes the quality mode The unit may distribute quality mode streaming data having a large amount of data.

  You may provide the receiving condition measurement part which measures the said receiving condition.

  A quality determination unit that determines a quality mode based on the measurement result may be provided.

  When the reception status measurement result indicates that the reception of streaming data or stored data at the reception unit is slower than a predetermined rate, the quality determination unit selects a quality mode with a small amount of data, and the distribution unit determines that the data amount is It may be one that delivers streaming data of a low quality mode.

  When the measurement result of the reception status indicates that the reception of streaming data or stored data at the reception unit is faster than a predetermined rate, the quality determination unit selects a quality mode with a large amount of data, and the distribution unit determines that the data amount is Streaming data of many quality modes may be distributed.

  For content data of the same content, a recording unit that records a plurality of content data with different quality modes may be provided.

  A recording unit that records the content data; and a conversion processing unit that converts the content data recorded in the recording unit into content data with a small amount of data. The distribution unit has a data amount converted by the conversion processing unit. Content data with a small quality mode may be distributed.

  The distribution unit may distribute the streaming data with a real-time transport protocol (RTP) as a communication protocol.

  The distribution unit may distribute the stored data using HTTP (hypertext transfer protocol) as a communication protocol.

  When the distribution unit distributes the streaming data and the storage data to the receiving terminal at least partially overlapping, the distribution unit may distribute the streaming data with priority over the storage data. With this configuration, the user does not need to consider the storage process of stored data. Also, smooth streaming playback is possible regardless of the reception speed of the stored data.

  The streaming data may have a data structure corresponding to multi-bit rate distribution, and the distribution unit may distribute the streaming data by changing a distribution speed according to a reception state of the receiving terminal.

  The receiving terminal may be configured such that the stream control unit of the receiving terminal that reproduces the stream data and the data storage unit of the receiving terminal that stores the stored data are separately configured.

  In order to solve the above problems, according to another aspect of the present invention, a receiving terminal that receives content data from a distribution server via a network connected to a distribution server that distributes content data and reproduces the content data The content data includes streaming data for the receiving terminal to reproduce while receiving the content data, and storage data for storing the data in the receiving terminal, and includes the streaming data and the storage data distributed from the distribution server. A receiving unit, a streaming control unit that reproduces streaming data received by the receiving unit, and a data storage unit that stores stored data received by the receiving unit, and the receiving unit receives streaming data or stored data Content data determined based on the reception status of In the quality mode of the content data is made to correspond to the amount of data, the receiving unit receiving terminal is provided, characterized in that to receive the streaming data.

  You may provide the receiving condition measurement part which measures the said receiving condition.

  A quality determination unit that determines a quality mode based on the measurement result may be provided.

  When the reception status measurement result indicates that the reception of streaming data or stored data at the reception unit is slower than a predetermined rate, the quality determination unit selects a quality mode with a small amount of data, and the distribution server receives the data amount. It may be required to distribute streaming data of a low quality mode.

  When the measurement result of the reception status indicates that the reception of streaming data or stored data at the reception unit is faster than a predetermined speed, the quality determination unit selects a quality mode with a large amount of data, and the distribution server receives the data amount. A request may be made to deliver streaming data of many quality modes.

  According to the present invention, streaming playback can be performed in a quality mode according to the reception status of content data, so that playback of streaming data and storage of stored data can be performed simultaneously.

  Exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In addition, in this specification and drawing, about the component which has the substantially same function structure, duplication description is abbreviate | omitted by attaching | subjecting the same code | symbol.

(Configuration of the first embodiment)
First, a content distribution system 100 according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram showing a content distribution system 100 according to the present embodiment. The content distribution system 100 is a system for distributing content data, for example, data such as movies, music, sports, software, etc. via a network such as the Internet. The content distribution system 100 includes a distribution server 110 and a receiver 160 (an example of a user terminal and a receiving terminal) connected to a network 150. The content distribution system 100 realizes a content distribution service in which content data is distributed to the receiver 160 and the receiver 160 can download the content data.

  The content data playback method in the receiver 160 is normally stored data that starts playback after downloading all data of one content data and storing all data in the data storage unit 166 of the receiver 160. There are a reproduction method and a streaming reproduction method in which downloaded data is temporarily stored and reproduction of the data is started immediately.

  The network 150 is, for example, a wide range IP network in which computer networks are interconnected using Internet Protocol (IP) technology. The router 162 connects or relays (route controls) between different computer networks, for example.

  Next, the distribution server according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a distribution server according to the present embodiment.

  The distribution server 110 performs distribution of content data, authentication of the receiver 160, and the like. The distribution server 110 includes a CPU 112, a memory 114, an input / output IF 116, a display unit 118, a recording unit 120 that stores content data, a content data distribution unit 122 that distributes content data, and content from the receiver 160. A distribution request reception unit 124 that receives a data distribution request, a user authentication unit 126, a user information management unit 128, a charging processing unit 130, a quality mode acquisition unit 132, a reception status measurement unit 134, and a quality determination Part 136 and a network connection part 138.

  A CPU (Central Processing Unit) 112 functions as an arithmetic processing device and a control device according to a program, and can control processing of each component provided in the distribution server 110. The memory 114 includes a storage unit such as a RAM (Random Access Memory), a ROM (Read Only Memory), and a cache memory, for example. The memory 114 has a function of temporarily storing data related to the processing of the CPU 112, an operation program of the CPU 112, and the like.

  The input / output IF (interface) 116 includes, for example, an operation unit such as a mouse, a keyboard, a touch panel, a button, a switch, and a lever, and an input control unit that generates an input signal and outputs it to the CPU 112. For example, the administrator of the distribution server 110 can input data to the distribution server 110 or instruct a processing operation by operating the operation unit of the input / output IF 116.

  The display unit 118 includes, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD) device, a CRT display device, a display device that displays a video signal such as a lamp, and an audio output device that outputs an audio signal such as a speaker. For example, the administrator of the distribution server 110 can confirm the result of the operation performed at the input / output IF 116 via the display unit 118.

  The recording unit 120 includes, for example, an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), a flash memory, and the like, and is a storage unit for storing data for a long period of time. The recording unit 120 can record data such as a user information database, a charging database, terminal performance information, network line information, and a program. The recording unit 120 stores a plurality of content data. In the user information database, for example, authentication information such as a user ID and a password for determining whether the user is a person who can use the content distribution service is stored for each user. In the charging database, for example, charging information is stored for each user ID of each user. The billing information is updated by the content selection by the user and the billing process by the purchase decision, and information such as the title of the content that has been billed for each user, the delivery date and time, and the billing amount is recorded.

  The content data distribution unit 122 is an example of a distribution unit, and distributes content data recorded in the recording unit 120, for example, stored data, high-quality streaming reproduction data, and low-quality streaming reproduction data to the receiver 160. The content data distribution unit 122 may distribute the streaming data with a real-time transport protocol (RTP) as a communication protocol. The content data distribution unit 122 may distribute the stored data using HTTP (hypertext transfer protocol) as a communication protocol. As a result, it is possible to store stored data in which data is guaranteed, and to perform streaming reproduction with real-time performance and high efficiency.

  The distribution request receiving unit 124 receives the distribution request transmitted from the receiver 160. When the distribution request is received, the distribution request receiving unit 124 requests the content data distribution unit 122 to distribute the content data. At this time, the distribution request requests to distribute either the stored data or the streaming data, or both.

  The user authentication unit 126 confirms whether the user is a person who can use the content distribution service. The identity verification is determined, for example, based on whether or not the user ID and password transmitted from the receiver 160 match the user ID and password stored in the user information database.

  For example, the user information management unit 128 newly stores user information stored in the user information database and deletes or changes existing user information in response to a request from the receiver 160.

  The billing processing unit 130 performs billing processing on the user when the content is selected by the user and the purchase is determined by selecting the purchase method. Note that content having the same content can be managed so that both storage data can be stored and streaming data can be reproduced simply by performing a purchase process on one content.

  The quality mode acquisition unit 132 acquires the quality mode of the content data corresponding to the data amount of the content data based on the reception status when the receiver 160 receives the streaming data or the stored data. For example, the quality mode acquisition unit 132 acquires information about the quality mode determined by the quality determination unit 136, for example, the high quality mode and the low quality mode.

  The reception status measurement unit 134 measures the reception status when the receiver 160 receives streaming data or stored data. For example, the reception speed of streaming data or stored data at the receiver 160 is measured, and it is determined whether the measured reception speed is lower or higher than a preset speed. The determination result is transmitted to the quality determination unit 136.

  The quality determination unit 136 selects a quality mode based on a determination result that the reception status when the receiver 160 receives streaming data or stored data is low speed or high speed. For example, if the measured reception speed is slower than the preset speed, select a low quality mode with a small amount of data, and if the measured reception speed is faster than the preset speed Select a high quality mode with a large amount of data. The selected quality mode is transmitted to the quality mode acquisition unit 132.

  The network connection unit 138 includes, for example, a communication line, a communication circuit, a communication device, and the like. The network connection unit 138 can transmit and receive data between the distribution server 110 and the receiver 160 via a computer network.

  Next, the receiver according to the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a receiver according to the present embodiment.

  The receiver 160 makes a content data distribution request to the distribution server 110 according to the selection of content data by the user, and receives the content data. The receiver 160 includes a CPU 164, a memory 165, a data storage unit 166, an input / output IF 168, a decoder 170, a storage data request unit 172, a streaming data request unit 174, a playback control unit 176, and a network connection unit. 178.

  The CPU 164 functions as an arithmetic processing device and a control device according to a program, and can control processing of each component provided in the receiver 160. The CPU 164 performs download control for downloading content data, accumulation control for storing the downloaded content data in the data storage unit 166, and the like.

  The data storage unit 166 records the content data downloaded to the receiver 160 through a download control process and a storage control process in the CPU 164. The data storage unit 166 includes, for example, an HDD (hard disk drive), an optical disk drive, a flash memory, and the like, and is a storage unit for storing data over a long period of time.

  For example, the memory 165 includes a storage unit such as a random access memory (RAM), a read only memory (ROM), and a cache memory. The memory 165 has a function of temporarily storing data related to CPU processing, CPU operation programs, and the like.

  The input / output IF 168 includes, for example, an operation unit such as a mouse, a keyboard, a touch panel, a button, a switch, and a lever, and an input control unit that generates an input signal and outputs it to the CPU 164. For example, the user can input data into the receiver 160 or instruct the processing operation of the receiver 160 by operating the operation unit of the input / output IF 168.

  The decoder 170 decodes the received video data or audio data. The decoder 170 includes a video decoder that decodes video data, an audio decoder that decodes audio data, a caption decoder that decodes caption data, and the like.

  The storage data request unit 172 requests the distribution server 110 to distribute the storage data when the user selects storage of the storage data from the content data. The streaming data request unit 174 requests the distribution server 110 to distribute streaming data when reproduction of streaming data is selected from the content data by the user.

  The reproduction control unit 176 performs reproduction control for reproducing the storage data stored in the data storage unit 166 and reproduction control for the received streaming data. The playback control unit is an example of a streaming control unit.

  The network connection unit 178 includes, for example, a communication line, a communication circuit, a communication device, and the like. The network connection unit 178 can transmit and receive data between the distribution server 110 and the receiver 160 via a computer network.

  The display device 180 is a display device of a computer terminal, a television, or the like, for example. The display device 180 includes, for example, a display device that displays a video signal such as a liquid crystal display (LCD) device, a plasma display device, or a CRT display device, and an audio output device that outputs an audio signal such as a speaker.

  The display device 180 is connected to the receiver 160, receives data from the receiver 160, and reproduces video and audio related to the content. The display device 180 displays a GUI (Graphical User Interface) screen and an ECG (Electronic Content Guide) screen. Video signals, audio signals, and control signals are transmitted and received between the receiver 160 and the display device 180 through an interface such as HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface). Note that the receiver 160 and the display device 180 may be configured as separate components, or may be an integrated device in which the receiver 160 and the display device 180 are housed in one.

  Next, referring to FIG. 4, an example of the configuration of content data that the distribution server has is shown. FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration of content data according to the present embodiment.

  The distribution server 110 stores content data related to a plurality of contents. The content includes, for example, various genres such as movies, dramas, music, and sports. A plurality of contents are prepared for each genre, and content data of each content (for example, movie 1, movie 2,... Movie n) is recorded in the recording unit of the distribution server 110. The content data includes storage data and streaming data. The storage data is data for storing the content data in the receiver 160, and the streaming data is data for the receiver 160 to reproduce while receiving the content. It is.

(Operation of the first embodiment)
Next, content data transmission / reception operations of the content distribution system according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 5 is a data flowchart showing a content data transmission / reception operation of the content distribution system according to the present embodiment.

  The distribution server 110 transmits metadata regarding the content data, and the receiver 160 displays the content list on the display device 180 (step S102). The metadata is, for example, data relating to ECG, that is, data relating to contents such as a title list of downloadable content data, content titles, creation dates, performers, synopses, genres, and distribution periods.

  Next, the user selects content based on the content list displayed on the display device 180 (step S104). As for the selected content, purchase information is transmitted from the receiver 160 to the distribution server 110 as content desired by the user (step S106).

  After the distribution server 110 receives the purchase information from the receiver 160, the distribution server 110 transmits data related to the content data purchase method, and the receiver 160 displays the purchase method list on the display device 180 (step S108). ). Although the purchase method differs depending on the content distribution service, for example, there is a method using a credit card, bank transfer, electronic money or the like.

  Then, the user selects a purchase method based on the content data purchase method list displayed on the display device 180 (step S110). As for the selected purchase method, information regarding the purchase method is transmitted from the receiver 160 to the distribution server 110 as the purchase method desired by the user. Then, by determining the purchase method by the user, the distribution server 110 confirms the purchase of the content data by the user and performs purchase processing (step S112). When the purchase process is completed, the user can download the purchased content data and perform streaming playback.

  Next, a case will be described in which the user gives an instruction to download purchased content data based on the purchased list of content data displayed on the display device 180 (step S114). Here, the download instruction is to store the content data in the receiver 160.

  When the distribution request reception unit 124 of the distribution server 110 receives a download instruction from the receiver 160, the content data distribution unit 122 of the distribution server 110 stores stored data among the content data recorded in the recording unit 120 to the receiver 160. Distribute (step S116). The distribution (downloading) of the stored data is continued unless a failure occurs in the network 150 or the distribution server 110 and the data distribution is interrupted or a download stop instruction is requested by the user.

  Next, a case where the user gives a streaming reproduction instruction while downloading of the purchased content data is continuing (step S118) will be described. Here, the streaming reproduction is to reproduce the received data immediately while temporarily storing the content data in the receiver 160. At this time, the temporarily stored data may be deleted immediately after reproduction.

  When a streaming reproduction instruction is given by the user, a streaming reproduction request is transmitted to the distribution server 110 (step S120). When the distribution request receiving unit 124 receives a streaming reproduction instruction from the receiver 160, the content data distribution unit 122 distributes streaming data among the content data recorded in the recording unit 120 to the receiver 160 (step S122). Then, the streaming data received by the receiver 160 is reproduced, and content data such as a movie or a drama is displayed on the display device 180. At this time, the distribution of the stored data from the distribution server 110 to the receiver 160 is continued. In the content distribution system 100, content data can be stored and streamed simultaneously for the same content data, for example, movies and dramas with the same title.

  Next, a case where an instruction other than normal reproduction such as a fast-forward request or a chapter movement request is given while the streaming reproduction is continuing (step S124) will be described. Here, fast-forwarding means that the distribution server 110 distributes content data consisting only of frames at regular intervals by reducing the number of frames to be distributed from the streaming data at the time of normal reproduction, and is faster than normal reproduction. Content data can be viewed at a speed. Moreover, chapter movement is moving to the head position of arbitrary chapters when content data is divided into a plurality of chapters. In the streaming reproduction method, it is possible to reproduce only by temporarily storing only the data necessary for reproduction without downloading all the data, so that fast forward and chapter movement are possible.

  When the user gives an instruction other than normal reproduction such as a fast-forward request or a chapter movement request, for example, a fast-forward request or a chapter movement request is transmitted to the distribution server 110 (step S126). When the distribution request reception unit 124 receives a fast-forward or chapter movement instruction from the receiver 160, the content data distribution unit 122 distributes streaming data among the content data recorded in the recording unit 120 to the receiver 160 (step S128). ). At this time, if it is a fast-forward instruction, the content data distribution unit 122 distributes content data including only frames at a fixed interval that is smaller than normal reproduction data. If it is a chapter movement instruction, the content data distribution unit 122 first distributes data at the head position of an arbitrary chapter selected by the user, and subsequently transmits streaming data.

  When the last data of the streaming data is transmitted from the content data distribution unit 122 to the receiver 160, the streaming reproduction ends (step S130). At this time, if the download of the stored data has not been completed, the distribution of the stored data from the distribution server 110 to the receiver 160 is continued. Then, when the last data of the stored data is transmitted from the content data distribution unit 122 to the receiver 160, the download of the stored data ends (step S132).

  Next, the operation of the distribution server 110 when the distribution server 110 distributes content data will be described. FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing the content data distribution operation of the distribution server 110 according to the present embodiment.

  First, the distribution server 110 determines whether or not there is a metadata distribution request regarding the content list from the receiver 160 (step S202). When there is a content list metadata distribution request, the distribution server 110 transmits the metadata to the receiver 160 to display the content list on the display device 180 connected to the receiver 160 (step S204).

  Next, the distribution server 110 determines whether or not content purchase information by the user has been received (step S206). When the content purchase information is received, the distribution server 110 transmits information regarding the purchase method to the receiver 160, and the purchase method is selected by the user, thereby completing the purchase process. At this time, distribution of the storage data of the purchased content data may be started (step S208).

  The distribution server 110 determines whether or not there has been a request for reproducing streaming data of the content data while the stored data of the content data is being distributed. Alternatively, the distribution server 110 determines whether there is a fast-forward request or a chapter movement request in streaming playback (step S210). When there is a streaming data reproduction request, fast forward request, or chapter movement request, the distribution server 110 distributes appropriate streaming data to the receiver 160 (step S212).

  In addition, the distribution server 110 distributes the last stored data among the content data, and determines whether or not the download of the stored data has been completed (step S214). If the download of the stored data has not been completed, the state continues to wait for a streaming data reproduction request. Further, the distribution server 110 distributes the last data of the streaming data among the content data, and determines whether or not the reproduction of the streaming data is finished (step S216). If the reproduction of the streaming data has not been completed, the apparatus continues to wait for a streaming data fast-forward request, a chapter movement request, or the like. When the reproduction of the streaming data is completed, the content data distribution operation of the distribution server ends.

  Next, details of the streaming playback operation of the distribution server according to the present embodiment will be described. Streaming data is stored in the recording unit 120 of the distribution server 110. In this embodiment, for example, high quality (high image quality) streaming data with a large amount of data and low quality (low image quality) with a small amount of data are used. Two types of data are stored.

  A case where there is a streaming reproduction request in the distribution server 110 and the distribution server 110 is reproducing the streaming data (step S122 in FIG. 5) will be described. At this time, the reception status measurement unit provided in the distribution server 110 measures the reception status when the reception unit of the receiver 160 receives streaming data and stored data. Then, the reception status measurement unit determines whether the reception of the streaming data and the storage data in the reception unit is slower or faster than a preset speed.

  If the reception status when the receiving unit of the receiver 160 is receiving streaming data and stored data is lower than a preset rate, the quality determination unit provided in the distribution server 110 sets the low quality mode. select. Next, the quality determination unit transmits information indicating that the selected quality mode is low quality to the quality mode acquisition unit provided in the distribution server 110, and the quality mode acquisition unit acquires information on the quality mode. Next, the content data distribution unit acquires the low quality mode streaming data recorded in the recording unit based on the low quality mode information acquired by the quality mode acquisition unit, and receives the low quality mode streaming data in the receiver 160. Deliver to.

  On the other hand, if the reception status when the receiving unit of the receiver 160 is receiving streaming data and stored data is faster than a preset speed, the quality determination unit provided in the distribution server 110 has a high quality. Select a mode. Next, the quality determination unit transmits information indicating that the selected quality mode is high quality to the quality mode acquisition unit provided in the distribution server 110, and the quality mode acquisition unit acquires information on the quality mode. Next, the content data distribution unit acquires the high quality mode streaming data recorded in the recording unit based on the high quality mode information acquired by the quality mode acquisition unit, and receives the high quality mode streaming data in the receiver 160. Deliver to.

(About the content data list display screen)
Next, an example of a window displayed on the screen of the display device 180 connected to the receiver 160 according to the present embodiment will be described. 7-11 is explanatory drawing which shows the window displayed on the screen of the display apparatus 180 connected to the receiver 160 which concerns on this embodiment.

  FIG. 7 shows a list of content data titles displayed on a window. Content that can be distributed by the distribution server 110 and that can be received by the receiver 160 is displayed on the window. In the window shown in FIG. 7, three contents of title names “content A”, “content B”, and “content C” are displayed, and the three contents can be selected by the user.

  FIG. 8 shows a list of titles of content data that can be purchased on a window. In the window shown in FIG. 8, three contents of title names “content A”, “content B”, and “content C” are displayed, and the three contents can be selected by the user. In addition, for content A and content C, three downloadable content data are displayed: “Download + Streaming playback”, Streaming playback only “High”, “Low”. “Download + streaming playback” is a purchase mode that enables both downloading (saving) of stored data and playback of streaming data. “High” only for streaming playback is a purchase mode that enables high-quality and low-quality streaming playback in streaming playback. Only streaming playback “Low” is a purchase mode that enables low-quality streaming playback in streaming playback. Note that “Downloading” is displayed for the content B, and the current state (status) of the receiver 160 is displayed.

  FIG. 9 shows a list of purchase forms of content data that can be purchased on a window. Unlike FIG. 8, a plurality of pieces of content data are not displayed as a list, but one content, that is, a form in which “content A” can be purchased is displayed in FIG. The screen shown in FIG. 9 is a screen that is displayed when content A is selected after the content list display in FIG. 7, for example. As purchaseable forms, two downloadable contents data of “download + streaming reproduction” and “streaming reproduction” are displayed. “Download + streaming reproduction” is a purchase form in which both download (storage) of saved data and streaming data reproduction are possible, and “streaming reproduction only” is a purchase form in which only streaming reproduction is possible. In either case, the streaming data may be played back with both high image quality and low image quality.

  FIG. 10 shows a list displayed on the window indicating operations that can be selected by the receiver 160 when “download + streaming playback” is selected in FIG. In FIG. 10, for example, two operations of “play after downloading” and “play while downloading” can be selected. When “play after downloading” is selected, the distribution server 110 first distributes stored data among purchased content data. Then, after the stored data is completed, the content data stored in the receiver 160 is reproduced or the streaming data is reproduced. When “play while downloading” is selected, the distribution server 110 starts distributing stored data among the purchased content data, starts distributing streaming data, and the receiver 160 stores the stored data. Play streaming data.

  FIG. 11 shows a button displayed on the window for starting streaming playback of content A after “playback while downloading” is selected in FIG. For example, as shown in FIG. 11A, two buttons, “High” and “Low”, may be displayed so that high-quality or low-quality reproduction can be performed by the user's selection. For example, as shown in FIG. 11B, only one button for starting streaming playback may be displayed.

  After the display in FIG. 11, when “High” to be reproduced in FIG. 11A is selected by the user's selection or “Reproduce” in FIG. 11B is selected, the content of the receiver 160 is displayed. The distribution server 110 may determine the quality mode according to the data reception status. For example, when the reception status when the receiving unit of the receiver 160 is receiving streaming data and stored data is lower than a preset speed, the quality determining unit selects the low quality mode, and the distribution server 110 may deliver low quality streaming data.

(Second Embodiment)
Next, a content distribution system 200 according to the second embodiment of the present invention will be described. FIG. 12 is a configuration diagram showing a content distribution system 200 according to the present embodiment.

  In the content distribution system 200 according to the present embodiment, the network 150, the receiver 160, and the router 162 have the same configuration as the content distribution system 100 according to the first embodiment, and thus detailed description thereof is omitted.

  The distribution server 210 includes a billing / authentication server 240, a DL distribution server 242, and a VoD distribution server 244, whereas the distribution server 110 of the first embodiment includes one server computer. Although not shown, billing / authentication server 240, DL distribution server 242 and VoD distribution server 244 each have a CPU, a memory, a recording unit, an input / output IF, a network connection unit, and a display unit. And a computer device having a server function.

  The billing / authentication server 240 includes the user authentication unit, the user information management unit, the billing processing unit, and the recording unit in which user information data and billing data are recorded as described in the first embodiment. Accounting processing can be performed. If it is confirmed that the receiver 160 is a person who can use the content distribution service, the charging / authentication server 240 notifies the DL distribution server 242 and the VoD distribution server 244 that the receiver 160 satisfies the usage authority.

  The DL distribution server 242 distributes stored data to the receiver 160. The DL distribution server 242 includes the content data distribution unit described in the first embodiment, a distribution request reception unit, and a recording unit in which stored data among content data is recorded. When there is a storage data distribution request from the receiver 160 and the authority to use the receiver 160 is confirmed, the DL distribution server 242 distributes the storage data to the receiver 160.

  The VoD distribution server 244 distributes stored data to the receiver 160. The VoD distribution server 244 includes the content data distribution unit described in the first embodiment, a distribution request reception unit, and a recording unit in which streaming data among the content data is recorded. When there is a streaming data reproduction request, fast-forward request, chapter movement request, or the like from the receiver 160 and the authority to use the receiver 160 is confirmed, the VoD distribution server 244 distributes the streaming data to the receiver 160.

  Next, content data transmission / reception operations of the content distribution system according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 13 is a data flowchart showing the content data transmission / reception operation of the content distribution system according to the present embodiment.

  The DL distribution server 242 transmits metadata regarding the content data, and the receiver 160 displays the content list on the display device 180 (step S302).

  Next, the user selects content based on the content list displayed on the display device 180 (step S304). As for the selected content, purchase information is transmitted from the receiver 160 to the DL distribution server 242 as content desired by the user (step S306).

  After the DL distribution server 242 receives the purchase information from the receiver 160, the DL distribution server 242 transmits data relating to the content data purchase method to the receiver 160, and the receiver 160 sends the purchase method list to the display device 180. Is displayed (step S308).

  Then, the user selects a purchase method based on the content data purchase method list displayed on the display device 180 (step S310). As for the selected purchase method, information regarding the purchase method is transmitted from the receiver 160 to the DL distribution server 242 as the purchase method desired by the user. Then, by determining the purchase method by the user, the DL distribution server 242 determines the purchase of the content data by the user and performs the purchase process (step S312). The information on the purchase method confirmation by the user is also transmitted to the charging / authentication server 240, and the charging / authentication server 240 performs a purchase process. When the user authority is confirmed, the information is transmitted from the accounting / authentication server 240 to the DL distribution server 242 (step S316). When the purchase process is completed, the user can download the purchased content data and perform streaming playback.

  Next, a case where the user gives an instruction to download purchased content data based on the purchased content data list displayed on the display device 180 (step S318) will be described. Here, the download instruction means that content data is distributed from the DL distribution server 242 to the receiver 160 and stored in the receiver 160.

  When the distribution request reception unit of the DL distribution server 242 receives the download instruction from the receiver 160, the content data distribution unit of the DL distribution server 242 distributes the stored data among the content data recorded in the recording unit to the receiver 160. (Step S320). The distribution (downloading) of the stored data is continued unless a failure occurs in the network 150, the distribution server 210, etc., and the data distribution is interrupted or a download stop instruction is requested by the user.

  Next, a case where the user gives a streaming playback instruction while downloading of the purchased content data is continuing (step S322) will be described. Here, the streaming reproduction is to immediately reproduce the data received from the VoD distribution server 244 while temporarily storing the content data in the receiver 160. At this time, the temporarily stored data may be deleted immediately after reproduction.

  When a streaming reproduction instruction is given by the user, a streaming reproduction request is transmitted to the VoD distribution server 244 (step S324). At this time, the VoD distribution server 244 confirms to the billing / authentication server 240 whether or not the receiver 160 has user authority (step S326). Then, the result of confirmation is transmitted from billing / authentication server 240 to VoD distribution server 244 (step S328).

  When the VoD distribution server 244 confirms the user authority of the receiver 160 and the distribution request reception unit receives the streaming playback instruction from the receiver 160, the content data distribution unit includes the content data recorded in the recording unit. The streaming data is distributed to the receiver 160 (step S330). Then, the streaming data received by the receiver 160 is reproduced, and content data such as a movie or a drama is displayed on the display device 180. At this time, the delivery of the stored data from the DL delivery server 242 to the receiver 160 is continued. In the content distribution system 200, content data can be stored and streamed simultaneously for the same content data, for example, movies and dramas with the same title.

  Next, a case where an instruction other than normal reproduction such as a fast-forward request or a chapter movement request is given while streaming reproduction is continuing will be described (step S332).

  When an instruction other than normal reproduction such as a fast-forward request or a chapter movement request is given by the user, for example, a fast-forward request or a chapter movement request is transmitted to the VoD distribution server 244 (step S334). When the distribution request receiving unit receives a fast-forward or chapter movement instruction from the receiver 160, the content data distribution unit distributes streaming data among the content data recorded in the recording unit to the receiver 160 (step S336). At this time, if it is a fast-forward instruction, the content data distribution unit of the VoD distribution server 244 distributes content data consisting of only frames with a fixed interval smaller than normal reproduction data. If it is a chapter movement instruction, the content data distribution unit of the VoD distribution server 244 first distributes data at the head position of an arbitrary chapter selected by the user, and subsequently transmits streaming data.

  When the last data of the streaming data is transmitted from the content data distribution unit of the VoD distribution server 244 to the receiver 160, the streaming reproduction ends (step S338). At this time, if the download of the stored data has not ended, the stored data is continuously distributed from the DL distribution server 242 to the receiver 160. Then, when the last data of the stored data is transmitted from the content data distribution unit of the DL distribution server 242 to the receiver 160, the download of the stored data ends (step S340). The download end notification is sent from the DL distribution server 242 to the billing / authentication server 240 (step S342).

  As described above, according to the present invention, it is possible to perform streaming playback of content according to line quality while maintaining the quality of the content to be downloaded. Since storage of saved data and streaming reproduction are performed by separate content data transmission, for example, the last scene can be confirmed in advance while saving data is saved, and reproduction of the entire content can be finished. Further, since the video of the streaming data often has a relatively low quality, the present invention can be applied to a receiving terminal in which it is difficult to store the stored data and simultaneously operate the high quality video.

  As mentioned above, although preferred embodiment of this invention was described referring an accompanying drawing, it cannot be overemphasized that this invention is not limited to this example. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications can be made within the scope of the claims, and these are naturally within the technical scope of the present invention. Understood.

  For example, in the above embodiment, the storage data and streaming data of content data are stored in the recording unit 120 of the distribution server 110, and the streaming data includes high quality data and low quality data according to the data amount. The present invention is not limited to such examples. For example, the content data may include only high-quality data with a large amount of data, and a conversion processing unit that converts high-quality content data into content data with a small amount of data may be provided. The conversion processing unit may convert content data with a large amount of data into content data with a small amount of data in accordance with a quality request or reception status on the receiver side, and deliver the converted content data to the receiver. Thereby, it becomes possible to deal with a finer transmission band without occupying a large capacity in the recording unit of the distribution server.

  Further, for example, in the above embodiment, the distribution server 110 is provided with the reception status measurement unit 134 and the quality determination unit 136, but the present invention is not limited to such an example. For example, at least one of the reception status measurement unit and the quality determination unit may be provided in the reception terminal.

  Further, for example, in the above-described embodiment, the case where the receiver 160 downloads the stored data and reproduces the streaming data using the same device has been described, but the present invention is not limited to such an example. For example, the storage data may be downloaded by a recording device such as a stationary recorder, and the streaming data may be reproduced by a portable display device such as a mobile monitor. By providing a device that plays back low-quality streaming video and a device that stores high-quality video separately, you can store high-quality video on a stationary device while checking the content on the mobile device. .

  Further, the streaming data may have a data structure corresponding to multi-bit rate distribution, and the distribution server may distribute the streaming data by changing the distribution speed according to the reception status of the receiving terminal. By preparing a multi-bit rate file in advance, the transmission speed can be dynamically changed in accordance with the available transmission band.

  The stored data may be media recording data. The media recording data is content data according to a media-specific format such as a Blu-ray disc or a copyright management method (DRM), for example. By using the stored data as data for media recording, the user can receive not only recording of the purchased content on the media but also a streaming playback service in real time.

It is a lineblock diagram showing the contents distribution system concerning a 1st embodiment of the present invention. It is a block diagram which shows the delivery server which concerns on the same embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows the receiver which concerns on the same embodiment. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structure of the content data which concern on the same embodiment. It is a data flowchart which shows the transmission / reception operation | movement of the content data of the content delivery system which concerns on the embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the content data delivery operation | movement of the delivery server which concerns on the same embodiment. It is explanatory drawing which shows the window displayed on the screen of the display apparatus connected to the receiver which concerns on the same embodiment. It is explanatory drawing which shows the window displayed on the screen of the display apparatus connected to the receiver which concerns on the same embodiment. It is explanatory drawing which shows the window displayed on the screen of the display apparatus connected to the receiver which concerns on the same embodiment. It is explanatory drawing which shows the window displayed on the screen of the display apparatus connected to the receiver which concerns on the same embodiment. It is explanatory drawing which shows the window displayed on the screen of the display apparatus connected to the receiver which concerns on the same embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows the content delivery system which concerns on the same embodiment. It is a data flowchart which shows the transmission / reception operation | movement of the content data of the content delivery system which concerns on the embodiment.

Explanation of symbols

100, 200 Content distribution system 110 Distribution server 112 CPU
114 Memory 116 Input / output IF
DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 118 Display part 120 Recording part 122 Content data delivery part 124 Delivery request reception part 126 User authentication part 128 User information management part 130 Charge processing part 132 Quality mode acquisition part 134 Reception condition measurement part 136 Quality determination part 138 Network connection part 160 Receiver 162 router 164 CPU
165 Memory 166 Data storage unit 168 Input / output IF
170 Decoder 172 Stored data request unit 174 Streaming data request unit 176 Playback control unit 178 Network connection unit 180 Display device 240 Billing / authentication server 242 DL distribution server 244 VoD distribution server

Claims (25)

In a content distribution system in a network in which a distribution server that distributes content data and a receiving terminal that receives the content data and reproduces the content data are connected,
The content data includes streaming data for the reception terminal to reproduce while receiving the content data, and storage data for storing data in the reception terminal,
The distribution server includes a distribution unit that distributes the streaming data and the stored data.
The receiving terminal is
A receiving unit that receives the streaming data and the stored data distributed from the distribution unit;
A streaming control unit for reproducing the streaming data received by the receiving unit;
A data storage unit for storing the storage data received by the reception unit;
With
The distribution server or the receiving terminal is
A reception status measurement unit that measures a reception status when the reception unit receives the streaming data or the stored data;
A quality determination unit that determines a quality mode of the content data corresponding to a data amount of the content data based on a measurement result of the reception status measurement unit;
With
The distribution unit, when distributing the streaming data to the receiving terminal, distributes the streaming data to the receiving terminal in the quality mode determined by the quality determination unit.   When the reception status measurement unit determines that the reception of the streaming data or the stored data in the reception unit is slower than a predetermined rate, the quality determination unit selects a quality mode with a small amount of data, The content distribution system according to claim 1, wherein the distribution unit distributes the streaming data in a quality mode with a small amount of data.   When the reception status measurement unit determines that reception of the streaming data or the stored data at the reception unit is faster than a predetermined speed, the quality determination unit selects a quality mode with a large amount of data, The content distribution system according to claim 1, wherein the distribution unit distributes the streaming data in a quality mode with a large amount of data.   The reception status is characterized in that the reception of the streaming data or the stored data in the reception unit is slower than a predetermined rate when the processing capacity when the distribution unit distributes the content data is reduced. The content distribution system according to claim 1. In a distribution server that distributes the content data to the receiving terminal via a network connected to the receiving terminal that receives the content data and reproduces the content data,
The content data includes streaming data for the reception terminal to reproduce while receiving the content data, and storage data for storing data in the reception terminal,
A delivery unit for delivering the streaming data and the stored data;
A quality mode acquisition unit that acquires a quality mode of the content data corresponding to the data amount of the content data based on a reception situation when the receiving terminal receives the streaming data or the stored data;
With
The distribution server distributes the streaming data to the receiving terminal in the quality mode acquired by the quality mode acquisition unit when distributing the streaming data to the receiving terminal. When the quality mode acquisition unit determines that reception of the streaming data or the stored data at the receiving terminal is slower than a predetermined speed as a result of the measured reception status, the quality mode with a small amount of data Get
The distribution server according to claim 5, wherein the distribution unit distributes the streaming data in a quality mode with a small amount of data. The quality mode acquisition unit, when it is determined that reception of the streaming data or the stored data at the receiving terminal is faster than a predetermined speed as a result of the measured reception status, the quality mode with a large amount of data Get
The distribution server according to claim 5, wherein the distribution unit distributes the streaming data in a quality mode with a large amount of data.   The distribution server according to claim 5, further comprising a reception status measurement unit that measures the reception status.   The distribution server according to claim 5, further comprising a quality determination unit that determines the quality mode based on the measurement result.   When the measurement result of the reception status indicates that the reception of the streaming data or the stored data at the reception unit is slower than a predetermined speed, the quality determination unit selects a quality mode with a small amount of data, and the distribution The distribution server according to claim 9, wherein the distribution unit distributes the streaming data in a quality mode with a small amount of data.   When the measurement result of the reception status indicates that the reception of the streaming data or the stored data at the reception unit is faster than a predetermined speed, the quality determination unit selects a quality mode with a large amount of data, and the distribution The distribution server according to claim 9, wherein the distribution unit distributes the streaming data in a quality mode with a large amount of data.   The distribution server according to claim 5, further comprising a recording unit that records the plurality of content data having different quality modes with respect to the content data having the same content. A recording unit for recording the content data;
A conversion processing unit that converts the content data recorded in the recording unit into the content data with a small amount of data;
With
The distribution server according to claim 5, wherein the distribution unit distributes the content data in a quality mode with a small amount of the data converted by the conversion processing unit.   The distribution server according to claim 5, wherein the distribution unit distributes the streaming data with a real-time transport protocol (RTP) as a communication protocol.   The distribution server according to claim 5, wherein the distribution unit distributes the stored data using a hypertext transfer protocol (HTTP) for a communication protocol. When the delivery unit delivers the streaming data and the stored data to the receiving terminal at least partially overlapping,
The distribution server according to claim 5, wherein the distribution unit distributes the streaming data with priority over the stored data.   The streaming data has a data structure corresponding to multi-bit rate distribution, and the distribution unit distributes the streaming data by changing a distribution speed according to the reception status of the receiving terminal. The distribution server according to claim 5.   6. The receiving terminal according to claim 5, wherein a stream control unit of the receiving terminal that reproduces the stream data and a data storage unit of the receiving terminal that stores the stored data are configured separately. The delivery server described in. In a receiving terminal that receives the content data from the distribution server via a network connected to a distribution server that distributes content data and reproduces the content data,
The content data includes streaming data for the reception terminal to reproduce while receiving the content data, and storage data for storing data in the reception terminal,
A receiving unit for receiving the streaming data and the stored data distributed from the distribution server;
A streaming control unit for reproducing the streaming data received by the receiving unit;
A data storage unit for storing the storage data received by the reception unit;
With
In the quality mode of the content data corresponding to the data amount of the content data, which is determined based on a reception situation when the receiving unit receives the streaming data or the stored data, the receiving unit is configured to transmit the streaming data. A receiving terminal.   The reception terminal according to claim 19, further comprising a reception status measurement unit that measures the reception status.   The receiving terminal according to claim 19, further comprising a quality determination unit that determines the quality mode based on the measurement result.   When the measurement result of the reception status indicates that the reception of the streaming data or the stored data at the reception unit is slower than a predetermined speed, the quality determination unit selects a quality mode with a small amount of data, and the distribution The receiving terminal according to claim 21, wherein the receiving terminal requests the server to deliver the streaming data in a quality mode with a small amount of data.   When the measurement result of the reception status indicates that the reception of the streaming data or the stored data at the reception unit is faster than a predetermined speed, the quality determination unit selects a quality mode with a large amount of data, and the distribution The receiving terminal according to claim 21, wherein the receiving terminal requests the server to deliver the streaming data in the quality mode with the large amount of data. In a computer program in a distribution server that distributes the content data to the receiving terminal via a network connected to the receiving terminal that receives the content data and reproduces the content data.
The content data includes streaming data for the reception terminal to reproduce while receiving the content data, and storage data for storing data in the reception terminal,
Means for delivering the streaming data and the stored data;
After the reception status when the receiving terminal receives the streaming data or the stored data is measured, the quality mode of the content data corresponding to the data amount of the content data determined based on the measurement result is acquired. Means to
Means for delivering the streaming data to the receiving terminal in the acquired quality mode when delivering the streaming data to the receiving terminal;
And a computer program that functions as a distribution server. In a computer program in a receiving terminal that receives the content data from the distribution server via a network connected to a distribution server that distributes content data and reproduces the content data,
The content data includes streaming data for the reception terminal to reproduce while receiving the content data, and storage data for storing data in the reception terminal,
Means for receiving the streaming data and the stored data distributed from the distribution server;
Means for reproducing the received streaming data;
Means for storing the received stored data;
The reception status when the streaming data or the stored data is received is measured, and the content data quality mode corresponding to the data amount of the content data is determined based on the measurement result, and then the determined data is determined. Means for receiving the streaming data in a quality mode;
And a computer program for causing a computer to function as a receiving terminal.

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