JP2009104638A - Information providing method, information providing device, information presenting method and information presenting device - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To achieve shared experience through a communication medium between users interested in the same media contents. <P>SOLUTION: A shared space providing server 25 operated on a network 1 introduces users utilizing the same media contents to each other, and arranges a mechanism for synchronous or asynchronous communication between the users, attachment of information to the contents, shared experience due to the occurrence of an event, based on an encounter of users having the common interesting object to achieve a new entertainment with which the users are actively concerned. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2009,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to an information providing system and information providing method, an information providing apparatus, an information processing method, and a computer program via a wide-area communication medium such as the Internet, and in particular, information closely related to each media content. The present invention relates to an information providing system and an information providing method for providing services, an information processing apparatus and an information processing method, and a computer program.

  More specifically, the present invention relates to an information providing system, an information providing method, an information processing apparatus, an information processing method, and a computer program for realizing a sharing experience via a communication medium among users who are interested in the same media content. In particular, the present invention relates to an information providing system and information providing method, an information providing method, an information processing method and an information processing method, and a computer program that realize a sharing experience suitably linked to the original media content.

  In recent years, technologies related to information transmission and information distribution such as communication and broadcasting have made remarkable progress, and demands have further increased.

  For example, in the field of information communication, the Internet deployed on a global scale is already widespread, and Internet-related technology development is also active. On the Internet, for example, WWW (World Wide Web), which is a wide area information search system that provides an information space with a hyperlink structure, has been released and widely spread, and has also deeply penetrated into daily life in general consumers. ing.

  On the WWW, innumerable documents, that is, information resources created in a hypertext format description language called HTML (Hyper Text Markup Language), are disclosed for free or free of charge. On the Internet, information resources such as these hypertexts are specified by identifiers in the form of URL (Uniform Resource Locator). The URL is a character string designated as a resource name, and is described in a format of “scheme name (protocol name): // host name (domain name): port number / path name (file name)” (well known).

  Resource access is usually performed according to an HTTP (Hyper Text Transfer Protocol) protocol between a WWW server that provides a WWW information resource and a WWW client that requests the provision of a WWW information resource.

  A WWW client is a computer that operates using a user agent called a “WWW browser” that takes out information resources from a WWW server. That is, in accordance with the URL keyed in the location box on the browser window screen, the hyperlink WWW information resource space on the Internet is searched, the resource, that is, the HTML document is searched from the corresponding server, and the data is downloaded. . Then, the acquired HTML document is analyzed, and the content is displayed on the browser window screen (that is, the homepage screen is assembled).

  HTML is a document with a hypertext structure. Characters, pictures, tables, etc. that make up a file are handled as card-like objects, and further, an association, that is, a link is formed between the objects, so that the documents can be referred to immediately. Has function. On the WWW browser screen, the display object related to the link information is displayed as a hot spot as an “anchor” and can be detected intuitively by the user. The actual state of link information scattered on the home page is a URL that specifies the resource of each link destination, and the user can specify the link destination simply by clicking a desired anchor on the browser screen. The WWW browser searches the WWW resource space on the Internet in response to the click of the anchor in the same manner as when the URL is input to the location box, and realizes movement to the designated link destination.

  Since WWW is attractive as an information source, companies, various organizations (regardless of profit and non-profit), or individuals compete to open a home page or set up a WWW site.

  For example, airlines, travel agencies, and the like make a database of reservation data related to services that require advance reservations such as airplanes and hotels, and centrally manage the data, and publish this database on the WWW. By accessing the reservation database through the WWW, the customer can perform all the procedures from confirmation of the reservation status to reservation without staying at home or office without actually visiting the store.

  In addition, it is not only used as a means for distributing information, but also through a wide area network such as the Internet, information can be shared among a large number of unspecified users remotely, creating a so-called virtual shared space. Can be realized. For example, services for exchanging various information related to real-world things and information in the virtual world, such as an online electronic bulletin board (BBS) and chat, already exist on the Internet. (The bulletin board is an asynchronous system and the chat is a synchronous system.)

  In order to use these information providing services, users usually search for bulletin boards related to their interests by their names and search services, and browse or write new information. Can be provided. That is, the user himself plays a leading role in the community. In addition, it is possible to provide a great opportunity for people who are interested in the same topic to meet each other, and further promote the use of the information exchange service.

  However, in the conventional information exchange service, in order to meet a person who has the same interest as the user, the user has to go actively searching for himself / herself. Also, there are many cases where themes that really interest you are not prepared as options.

  Specifically, in a conventional information exchange service, a user accesses a certain community site. From the themes presented there, select the ones you are interested in and start communication such as bulletin boards and chat. Services offered in such a community do not simply attract people with similar interests by just listening to music and watching movies. In the first place, content that is played back on a personal computer, a stereo, a DVD player, a game machine, a television, etc. is mainly viewed passively.

  In addition, after exchanging opinions and information of other people about media content such as music and movies on the network, if you want to listen or appreciate the media content, you must search for the media content again. In other words, the link between the information closely related to the media content and the original media content is not sufficient.

  For example, a network distribution method for transmitting identification information of content being used by a first terminal to a server and executing chat with the second terminal has been proposed (for example, see Patent Document 1). In addition, an information communication method or the like configured to display a map of the user's position (for example, see Patent Documents 2 and 3), and further, an event is issued in response to counting the number of users and reaching a predetermined value. Proposals have been made on network systems having a configuration that emits (see, for example, Patent Documents 4 and 5). However, none of these proposals disclose a configuration that allows information related to a reproduction position to be shared among a plurality of users.

JP-T-2001-521642 JP 2001-308903 A JP 2002-108194 A JP 2001-184288 A Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2001-160027

  An object of the present invention is to provide an excellent information providing system, information providing method, information processing apparatus, information processing method, and computer program capable of providing an information providing service closely related to each media content. It is in.

  A further object of the present invention is to provide an excellent information providing system and information providing method, information processing apparatus and information processing method capable of realizing a sharing experience via a communication medium among users who are interested in the same media content. And providing a computer program.

  A further object of the present invention is to provide an excellent information providing system, information providing method, information processing apparatus and information processing method, and computer program capable of realizing a sharing experience suitably linked to the original media content. There is to do.

The present invention has been made in consideration of the above problems, and a first aspect thereof is an information providing system or an information providing method for providing information to a user who views content,
Means or steps for searching for users viewing the same content;
Means or steps for providing a shared space for users viewing the same content to exchange information;
An information providing system or an information providing method.

  However, “system” here refers to a logical collection of a plurality of devices (or functional modules that realize specific functions), and each device or functional module is in a single housing. It does not matter whether or not.

  According to the information providing system or the information providing method according to the first aspect of the present invention, users who use the same media content are brought together and based on encounters between people who have a common interest. By providing mechanisms such as synchronous or asynchronous communication, information attachment to content, and sharing experience by event occurrence, new entertainment that enables users to be actively involved can be realized.

  Here, the content use user determining means or step determines whether or not the user is viewing the same content by referring to the combination of the used content identification information and the user terminal identification information sent from each user. You just have to do it. In addition, the content identification information here is generated using feature vectors consisting of power spectra obtained for each of a plurality of frequency components at a plurality of sampling points extracted at predetermined intervals from a predetermined position of the content. can do.

  The shared space providing means or step may provide information related to the content to each user using the same content. Accordingly, people who use or use the same content such as music and movies are attracted to each other in a virtual shared world. In addition, it is possible to realize both synchronous and asynchronous communication between the met people.

  In addition, the shared space providing means or step may provide each user with map display data describing the location of the user who is using the same content. Then, in response to a request from the user via a map display showing the location of the user, real-time communication between designated users may be executed. Therefore, the user can designate a communication partner such as a chat by using the position of a person in contact with the same content displayed on the Japan map or the world map as a clue.

  The shared space providing means or step counts the number of users who are using the same content, and issues a predetermined event to each user in response to the number of users reaching a predetermined value. Also good. Therefore, people who meet using the same content such as music and video can share a new experience at the same time.

  Further, the number of people until the predetermined value is reached may be notified to the user. In such a case, how many people are displayed until the necessary number of people is reached, and the user speaks to friends and gathers the people so that the number of people becomes a certain number, so that the use of the service is promoted.

  Further, the shared space providing means or step may receive additional information related to the content being reproduced from the user and store the additional information in association with the content and / or the reproduction position of the content. Then, the additional information may be provided to other users who use the same content. Accordingly, in asynchronous communication or the like, for example, by attaching a part ID indicating a specific part of the music content, the user can designate that part and cause the other party to reproduce the content. When sending a message that corresponds to a specific part of a song, movie, or game on a homepage, chat, or bulletin board instead of the entire work, tag the part you want to comment with an ID, and use a URL to display a page of specific information Can be used as shown.

The second aspect of the present invention is an information processing apparatus or information processing method for using a service linked to content viewing,
Content playback means or step for playing back content;
Content identification information extracting means or step for acquiring content identification information from the content being reproduced;
Terminal identification information holding means or step for holding the terminal identification information of the device itself;
An identification information notification means or step for notifying a message including content identification information and terminal identification information;
An information processing apparatus or an information processing method.

  According to the information processing apparatus or the information processing method of the second aspect of the present invention, a content use notification message including a set of the content identification information acquired from the content being reproduced and the terminal identification information of the apparatus itself is externally provided. It is supposed to send. Therefore, on the server side that receives such a message from each user, the users who use the same media content are brought together, and based on the encounter between those who have a common interest, the users are synchronized or asynchronous. New entertainment that allows users to be actively involved can be realized by providing mechanisms such as communication, pasting information on content, and sharing experiences through event occurrence.

  Here, the content identification information extracting means or step uses a feature vector composed of a power spectrum obtained for each of a plurality of frequency components at a plurality of sampling points extracted at predetermined intervals from a predetermined position of the reproduced content. Thus, content identification information can be generated.

An information processing apparatus or information processing method according to the second aspect of the present invention includes:
Content-related information receiving means or step for receiving information related to content in response to the notification of the identification information;
Content-related information presenting means or step for presenting the received content-related information to the user;
May be further provided.

  Therefore, people who use or use the same content such as music and movies are attracted to each other in a virtual shared world, and both synchronous and asynchronous communication can be realized.

  The content related information receiving means or step receives map display data indicating the location of a user who is using the same content, and the content related information presenting means or step displays and outputs the map display data, and displays the map. Communication request means or a step for requesting real-time communication with the user selected via the screen may be further provided. In such a case, the user can designate a communication partner such as chat based on the position of a person in contact with the same content displayed on a map of Japan or a world map.

  The content-related information receiving means or step receives screen information related to a counting result of the number of users who are using the same content, and the content-related information presenting means or step is a counting result of the number of users who are using the same content. The screen information related to this may be displayed and output. The content related information receiving means or step counts the number of users using the same content, receives event information generated in response to the number of users reaching a predetermined value, and presents the content related information The means or step may display and output the event information.

  In such a case, people who meet using the same content such as music and video can share a new experience at the same time. Further, the number of people until the predetermined value is reached may be notified to the user. In such a case, how many people are displayed until the necessary number of people is reached, and the user speaks to friends and gathers the people so that the number of people becomes a certain number, so that the use of the service is promoted.

  The information processing apparatus or information processing method according to the second aspect of the present invention includes an additional information input means or step for inputting additional information for the content being played back, and an additional information notification for notifying the input additional information. The content related information receiving means or step may receive content related information reflecting additional information, and the content related information presenting means or step may display and output the content related information.

  In such a case, in asynchronous communication or the like, for example, by attaching a part ID indicating a specific part of the music content, the user can designate that part and cause the other party to reproduce the content. When sending a message that corresponds to a specific part of a song, movie, or game on a homepage, chat, or bulletin board instead of the entire work, tag the part you want to comment with an ID, and use a URL to display a page of specific information Can be used as shown.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a computer program written in a computer-readable format so as to execute a process for providing information to a user who views content on a computer system.
A content use user determination step for determining whether the user is viewing the same content;
A shared space providing step for providing a shared space for users who view the same content to exchange information;
A computer program characterized by comprising:

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a computer program written in a computer-readable format so that processing for using a service linked to content viewing is executed on a computer system.
A content playback step of playing back content;
A content identification information extraction step for obtaining content identification information from the content being reproduced;
An identification information notification step for notifying a message including the content identification information and the terminal identification information of the device itself;
A computer program characterized by comprising:

  The computer program according to each of the third and fourth aspects of the present invention defines a computer program written in a computer-readable format so as to realize predetermined processing on the computer system. In other words, by installing the computer program according to the third and fourth aspects of the present invention in the computer system, a cooperative action is exhibited on the computer system, and the first aspect of the present invention. The same effects as those of the information providing system or information providing method according to the present invention and the information processing apparatus or information processing method according to the second aspect of the present invention can be obtained.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to provide an excellent information providing system, information providing method, information processing apparatus, information processing method, and computer program capable of providing an information providing service closely related to each media content. Can do.

  Further, according to the present invention, an excellent information providing system, information providing method, information processing apparatus, and information processing method capable of realizing a sharing experience via a communication medium between users who are interested in the same media content As well as computer programs.

  Further, according to the present invention, an excellent information providing system and information providing method, information processing apparatus and information processing method, and computer program capable of realizing a sharing experience suitably linked to the original media content are provided. Can be provided.

  According to the present invention, by connecting a device to a network, it is possible not only to passively view content such as music and video played on each device, but also to be actively involved. In addition, it is possible to realize a sharing experience with people who are watching the same content at different locations at the same time.

  In addition, according to the present invention, without having to search and search for people with similar interests by themselves, it is possible to automatically enjoy the same content only by viewing the content that is the interest itself at that time. You can meet each other.

  The virtual shared space realized by the present invention is a valuable place where you can automatically meet people who can't easily meet each other and who haven't found out that they have the same interest even if they are nearby. Also, you can meet some people who can understand the goodness of other closed content for some people who are not major but geek.

  Further, in the shared space according to the present invention, only people who are viewing the same content at the same time can allow a plurality of people at distant locations to experience sharing through the content.

  Recommendations from people who are interested (that is, people who enjoyed the same content such as music and movies) encouraged encounters with content that exactly fits that person's hobby. Recommendations from people with similar hobbies are difficult with mechanical recommendation systems based on people's data that show similar purchase patterns, such as completely unexpected content, but content that you would like to try. It is possible to provide an opportunity for encounters that have been made, and users can draw out their own new interests.

  According to the present invention, various actions after encountering “communication”, “adding information to a specific part of content”, “event participation”, and “recommendation → purchase” can be performed according to the user's desire at that time. It is possible to provide a system that fits the natural favors of people, instead of visiting the site with a specific purpose such as communication as a communication site and purchase as a shopping site.

  Other objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from more detailed description based on embodiments of the present invention described later and the accompanying drawings.

It is the figure which showed typically the structure of the network computing system 1 provided for implementation of this invention. 2 is a diagram schematically illustrating a hardware configuration of a computer system 500 that operates as a server or a client on a network 1. FIG. A diagram schematically showing a mechanism in which users who use (or have used) the same music or video (that is, objects having the same identifier) are attracted in a virtual shared world on the network 1 is there. It is the figure which showed typically the functional structure of the client and server for implement | achieving the operation | movement that users are attracted | sucked in the virtual shared world on the network. It is the figure which showed typically the structure of the music reproduction database. It is the figure which showed typically the structure of the music data database. It is the figure which showed the process sequence performed in a client in the format of a flowchart in order to implement | achieve the operation | movement that users are attracted | sucked in the virtual shared world on the network. It is the figure which showed the process procedure performed in a server in the format of a flowchart in order to implement | achieve the operation | movement that users are attracted | sucked in the virtual shared world on the network 1. FIG. It is the figure which showed typically the structure for using a bulletin board, a chat, etc. between those interested in the same content. It is the figure which showed the structural example of the display screen on the client apparatus which is reproducing | regenerating a content. It is a figure for demonstrating the effect acquired when the users using the same music and image | video are attracted in the virtual shared world on the network. It is the figure which showed the example of a screen structure for drawing in users who are enjoying the same content to virtual shared spaces, such as a chat, and guiding it to communication. Clients and servers for realizing the operation of bringing users together in a virtual shared world by confirming the location of people in contact with the same content such as music and video on the display screen of Japan map and world map It is the figure which showed typically the function structure. It is the figure which showed the structure of the user information database typically. Executed on the client to realize the operation of bringing users together in a virtual shared world by confirming the location of people in contact with the same content such as music and video on the display screen of Japan map and world map It is the flowchart which showed the processing procedure. Executed on the server to realize the operation of bringing users together in a virtual shared world by confirming the location of people in contact with the same content such as music and video on the display screen of Japan map and world map It is the flowchart which showed the processing procedure. It is the figure which showed a mode that information, such as an applause and percussion, is added to the music content in reproduction | regeneration. It is the figure which showed typically the function structure of the client and server for implement | achieving the operation | movement which pastes various information with respect to contents, such as a music and an image | video which the user is viewing. It is the flowchart which showed the process sequence performed in a client in order to implement | achieve the operation | movement which pastes various information with respect to content, such as a music and an image | video which the user is viewing. It is the flowchart which showed the process sequence performed in a server in order to implement | achieve the operation | movement which pastes various information with respect to contents, such as a music and an image | video which the user is viewing. It is the figure which showed the example of a structure of the screen by which how many people are displayed until it reaches the fixed number of persons required in order to start an event. Schematic functional configuration of the client and server for realizing the action of generating an event when users watching the same media content at the same time reach a certain number or more and simultaneously experiencing the new experience. It is the figure shown in. In order to realize the action of generating an event when a certain number of users watching the same media content at the same time reach a certain number of people and having them experience a new experience at the same time, the processing procedure executed on the client is shown. It is a flowchart. Describes the processing procedure executed on the server in order to realize an operation in which an event is generated when a certain number of users watching the same media content at the same time reach a certain number of people and the people simultaneously experience a new experience. It is a flowchart. It is the figure which showed typically the function structure of the client and server for implement | achieving My Favorite function. It is the flowchart which showed the process sequence performed in a client in order to implement | achieve a My Favorite function between the users who are simultaneously viewing the same media content. It is the flowchart which showed the process sequence performed in a server in order to implement | achieve a My Favorite function between the users who are simultaneously viewing the same media content. It is the figure which showed typically the structure of the music introduction service using site | part ID. It is the figure which showed an example of the link reference information regarding a music introduction. It is the flowchart which showed the operation | movement procedure for receiving a music introduction service on a WWW client. It is the figure which showed the structural example of the link reference information which has as an argument the server which should go to a search when content is not in local storage.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

A. System Configuration FIG. 1 schematically shows the configuration of a network computing system 1 used for implementing the present invention. An infinite number of computer systems are connected to the network computing system 1. These computer systems are scattered all over the world. Some computers operate as "servers" that provide various resource services for a fee or free of charge, while others request resource services from servers. Running as a "client".

  As shown in FIG. 1, the network computing system 1 includes the Internet 10 as a communication medium and LANs (Local Area Networks) 20A, 20B as other small-scale networks, telephones in each country or each region. A public telephone network 30 constructed and provided by the company is included. The Internet 10 and each small network 20A... Are interconnected via routers 21A. The servers on the Internet 10 and the small networks 20A, 20B,... Can be mutually accessed according to a predetermined communication protocol such as TCP / IP (Transmission Control Protocol / Internet Protocol). Further, the network such as the Internet 10 and the LANs 20A, 20B... And the public telephone network 30 are interconnected by a gateway system 40.

  Computer systems on the Internet 10 (including computers connected to the Internet via a LAN) have acquired IP addresses that can be identified on the Internet 10. On the Internet 10, there is a telecommunications carrier, that is, an Internet service provider (ISP) that provides a connection service to the Internet for general users who cannot make an IP connection using a dedicated line. The user dials up to an access point (AP) installed by the service provider to establish an IP connection to the Internet.

  A general user computer (PC) 100 IP-connected via an arbitrary service provider (ISP) can operate as a client on the Internet 10 by introducing a client application such as a WWW browser. .

  In this embodiment, it is assumed that each computer as a client is always connected to the network through a broadband communication network. However, even if it is a temporary connection form, this invention has the same effect.

  Also, on the LAN 20A, one or more WWW servers 25 that provide HTTP resource objects such as HTML contents, a mail server 26 that provides an email transmission / reception service for each user account, a database server, and a file server There are multiple types of servers. The servers 22, 23-1, 23-2, 25 and 26 on the LAN 20 </ b> A can be accessed via the router 21 </ b> A.

  Each server on the network operates an information providing service. For example, one of the servers 25 operates as a shared space providing site that realizes new entertainment that allows the user to be actively involved with media content such as music and movies. More specifically, each client on the network plays music such as CDs, music downloaded in a compressed data format such as MP3, or media such as DVDs and movies obtained by streaming distribution. On the other hand, the server provides a space for realizing a new sharing experience between users who use the same media content such as music and video.

  The contents of services performed by such a shared space providing server are as follows.

(1) Encounter:
Users who use (or have used) the same music or video (that is, objects having the same identifier) are attracted to each other in a virtual shared world. All the services described below are based on encounters between those who have this common interest.

(2) Communication:
Realize synchronous and asynchronous communication between people you meet in the shared world.

(3) Pasting information to an object:
A variety of information is pasted to the content such as music or video being viewed. It is also possible to specify the part to be pasted. The pasted information can be browsed later.

(4) Event:
When a certain number of users who are watching the same media content at the same time reach a certain number or more, an event is generated, and a mechanism is created for these people to simultaneously experience a new experience. Therefore, people who meet using the same content such as music and video can have a new experience at the same time.

(5) Advertising system:
Based on a community where users who are interested in the same content such as music and video meet, and at the same time, an advertisement linked to the content being reproduced is presented.

(6) Part ID (designation of content playback section):
In synchronous or asynchronous communication, a part ID for designating a specific part of content such as music is attached, and the part is designated on the receiver side to reproduce the content. In the case of viewing during synchronous communication, when the part ID is used (only this part of the song is heard), the sender designates the part ID. This works to promote content purchase. Further, when the partner browses the favorite library and tries to view it like My Favorite (described later), the receiving side designates the part (reproduction desired part). For example, when a comment corresponding to a specific part of content is transmitted on a homepage, chat, bulletin board, or the like, a part (reproduction section) to be commented is tagged with a part ID and used. The part ID may be pasted to the mail and sent.

  On the network 1 shown in FIG. 1, a host terminal called a server or a client is usually a specific server application or client application on a computer system such as a personal computer or a game machine or a set-top box (STB). It is constituted by operating. FIG. 2 schematically shows a hardware configuration example of this type of computer system 500. Hereinafter, each part will be described.

  A CPU (Central Processing Unit) 511 that is a main controller of the system 500 is configured to execute various applications under the control of an operating system (OS). As illustrated, the CPU 511 is interconnected with other devices (described later) by a bus 517.

  The memory 512 is a storage device used for storing program codes executed by the CPU 511 and temporarily storing work data being executed. It should be understood that the memory 512 shown in the figure includes both nonvolatile and volatile memory.

  The display controller 513 is a dedicated controller for actually processing the drawing command issued by the processor 511. The drawing data processed by the display controller 513 is once written in, for example, a frame buffer (not shown). Thereafter, the screen is output to the display device 521.

  The input device interface 514 is a device for connecting user input devices such as a keyboard 522 and a mouse 523 to the system 500.

  The network interface 515 can connect the system 500 to the network 1 according to a predetermined communication protocol such as Ethernet (registered trademark). On the network 1, software programs and data contents are distributed. For example, a server application that executes the shared space providing service according to the present embodiment and a client application that uses the shared space according to the present embodiment can be transmitted and received via the network 1. Similarly, MP3, ATRAC, or other types of music content can be transmitted / received via the network 1.

  The external device interface 516 is a device for connecting an external device such as a hard disk drive (HDD) 524 or a media drive 525 to the system 500.

  The HDD 524 is an external storage device in which a magnetic disk as a storage carrier is fixedly mounted (well-known), and is superior to other external storage devices in terms of storage capacity and data transfer speed. Placing the software program on the HDD 526 in an executable state is called “installation” of the program in the system. Normally, the HDD 524 stores operating system program codes, application programs, device drivers, and the like to be executed by the processor 511 in a nonvolatile manner. For example, a server application that executes the shared space providing service according to the present embodiment, a client application that uses the shared space according to the present embodiment, and the like are installed on the HDD 524. Further, music contents in the format such as MP3 or ATRAC and other media contents may be stored on the HDD 524.

  The media drive 525 is a device for loading portable media such as CD (Compact Disc), MO (Magneto-Optical Disc), DVD (Digital Versatile Disc), etc., and accessing the data recording surface. The portable media is mainly used for the purpose of backing up software programs, data files, and the like as computer-readable data, and for moving them (including sales, distribution, and distribution) between systems. For example, a server application that executes the shared space providing service according to the present embodiment or a client application that uses the shared space according to the present embodiment may be distributed and distributed using these portable media. it can. Similarly, MP3, ATRAC, or other types of music content can be distributed and distributed using this type of portable media.

B. Shared space providing service linked with media content As described above, at least one of the servers 25 operating on the network 1 has a user actively involved with media content such as music and movies. Operates a shared space providing site that realizes new entertainment. In other words, this shared space providing server is for a client that is playing a media such as a CD, music downloaded in a compressed data format such as MP3, or a media such as a DVD or a movie obtained by streaming distribution. , Provide a space to realize a new sharing experience among users who use the same media content. Details of each service performed by the shared space providing server will be described below.

B-1. encounter:
Users who use (or have used) the same music or video (that is, objects having the same identifier) are attracted to each other in a virtual shared world. Specifically, when media content such as music or video is played on a client device connected to the network 1, unique identification information that can be extracted from the content body being played is automatically Extract and notify server. Then, on the server side, based on the notification from each client, the clients playing back the same content at the same time can mutually confirm their existence.

  FIG. 3 schematically shows a mechanism in which users who use (or have used) the same music or video (that is, objects having the same identifier) are attracted in a virtual shared world on the network 1. It shows.

  The client can acquire content such as music and video through a recording medium such as a CD or DVD and play it back. In addition, content such as music and video distributed in a format such as an MP3 file or an MPEG2 file can be acquired from a server on the network and reproduced.

  Then, the client automatically extracts unique identification information (content ID such as music ID) that can be taken out from the content body that is being reproduced, and notifies the server of this together with the terminal ID of the client itself.

  Here, the content ID can be generated by using a feature vector composed of a power spectrum obtained for each of a plurality of frequency components at a plurality of sampling points extracted at predetermined intervals from a predetermined position of the content. . According to such an ID generation method, identification information can be obtained from the content body without changing the original music file, and the identification can be performed without depending on the file compression method (MP3, ATRAC, etc.). Since information can be obtained, it can be used for content search in a wide range as common identification information.

  On the server side, a notification consisting of a set of a content ID and a terminal ID is received from each client that reproduces the content, and this is managed as content additional information such as chat and bulletin board, and the additional information is returned to the client. Further, on the client side, the received additional information is output on the screen or by voice, and presented to the user, thereby realizing an information providing service in cooperation with the original content.

  FIG. 4 schematically shows a functional configuration of the client and server for realizing an operation in which users are attracted to each other in a virtual shared world on the network 1.

  The client includes a content reproduction unit 51, a user interface 52, a content acquisition unit 53, a media reading unit 54, a content storage unit 55, a content ID extraction unit 56, a terminal ID holding unit 57, and a message generation unit. 58, a message transmission / reception unit 59, a message analysis unit 60, and a music data storage unit 61.

  The content reproduction unit 51 performs a reproduction operation of content such as a specified music piece or video according to a command from the user via the user interface 52.

  The content acquisition unit 53 acquires content to be played back by the content playback unit 51. More specifically, when the specified content is stored as a local file such as a hard disk device, the content acquisition unit 53 acquires the content therefrom. Alternatively, when the content is provided in the form of a portable medium such as a CD or a DVD, the content acquisition unit 53 acquires the content read by the media reading unit 54 loaded with this medium. If the local file does not exist, the content acquisition unit 53 acquires the content via the network 1 from a site that provides the content in a format such as MP3 or ATRAC.

  The content ID extraction unit 56 extracts unique identification information, that is, a content ID from the content main body without modifying the content. Here, the content ID can be generated by using a feature vector composed of a power spectrum obtained for each of a plurality of frequency components at a plurality of sampling points extracted at predetermined intervals from a predetermined position of the content. . According to such an ID generation method, identification information can be obtained from the content body without changing the original music file, and the identification can be performed without depending on the file compression method (MP3, ATRAC, etc.). Since information can be obtained, it can be used for content search in a wide range as common identification information.

  The terminal ID holding unit 57 holds a unique terminal ID for each client device.

  The message generation unit 58 generates a message for notifying content use including the content ID obtained by the content ID extraction unit 56 and the terminal ID held by the terminal ID holding unit 57.

  Then, the message transmission / reception unit 59 transmits a message for notifying the use of the content to a server that provides a shared space to users who use the same content.

  On the other hand, the server that provides the shared space includes a message transmission / reception unit 62, a message analysis unit 63, a database management unit 64, a music playback database 65, a music data database 66, and a message generation unit 67. .

  The message transmission / reception unit 62 receives a message for notifying content use from each client using the content via the network.

  The message analysis unit 63 analyzes the received message from the client and extracts the content ID and the terminal ID. When the content used by the client is music, the content ID is the music ID.

  The database management unit 64 updates the music reproduction database 65 and searches the music data database 66 based on the message analysis result. Here, the music reproduction database 65 records a combination of a music ID and a terminal ID as a record (see FIG. 5), and which client uses which content. The music data database 66 stores a combination of the music ID and music information data as a record (see FIG. 6) and stores information closely related to each content.

  The message generator 67 generates a message to the client based on the music information data obtained by searching the music data database 66. This message is transmitted to the corresponding client by the message transmitting / receiving unit 62.

  On the client side, when a message from the server is received, the message analysis unit 60 analyzes this and extracts information closely related to the content being reproduced, such as music information data. Then, the music information data is recorded in the music information data storage unit 61, and is displayed on the screen via the user interface 52 (or voice output), etc., and presented to the user.

  FIG. 7 shows a processing procedure executed in the client in the form of a flowchart in order to realize an operation in which users are attracted to each other in a virtual shared world on the network 1.

  A medium such as a CD is loaded into the medium reader 54, or in response to an instruction from the user via the user interface 52, reading of a content such as a music is started (step S1).

  The content reproduction unit 51 performs screen output or audio output of the read content, and executes content reproduction processing. At this time, the content ID extraction unit 56 cuts out from the predetermined position of the content being reproduced at a predetermined interval (step S2). Then, a content ID such as a music ID is generated by using a feature vector composed of a power spectrum obtained for each of a plurality of frequency components at a plurality of sampling points (step S3).

  Then, a message is generated based on the calculated content ID and the terminal ID assigned to the client device itself, and is transmitted to the shared space providing server (step S4).

  Thereafter, if the music data can be received from the shared space providing server (step S5), the music data is stored in the music data storage unit 61 (step S6), and screen output or audio is transmitted via the user interface 52. Output (step S7).

  For example, when the content is used in the form of CD playback, when the playback position moves to the next track (step S8), the process returns to step S1 and the same processing as described above is repeatedly executed.

  Further, FIG. 8 shows a processing procedure executed in a server providing a shared space in the form of a flowchart in order to realize an operation in which users are attracted to each other in a virtual shared world on the network 1. Yes.

  When a message including the terminal ID and the content ID is received from the client via the network 1 (step S11), the music reproduction database is updated (step S12) and the music data database 66 is searched (step S13). Then, the music data extracted from the database 66 is returned to the message transmission source client (step S14).

  All the services described below are realized based on the mechanism of meeting people having common interests as described above.

B-2. Based on the mechanism of meeting people with common interests realized by the communication sharing space providing server, using the bulletin board or chat between those who are interested in the same content such as music and movies, Asynchronous communication is possible. In the case of viewing during synchronous communication, when the part ID is used (only this part of the song is heard), the sender designates the part ID. In the case of asynchronous communication, when the other party browses the favorite library and tries to view it like My Favorite (described later), the receiving side designates that portion (reproduction desired portion). It is also possible to listen to a specific phrase in the music using an IP phone or the like. In this case, not voice-based communication but voice communication can be realized.

  FIG. 9 schematically shows a mechanism for using a bulletin board or a chat between those who are interested in the same content such as music and movies.

  The client can acquire content such as music and video through a recording medium such as a CD or DVD and play it back. In addition, content such as music and video distributed in a format such as an MP3 file or an MPEG2 file can be acquired from a server on the network and reproduced.

  Then, the client automatically extracts unique identification information (content ID such as music ID) that can be taken out from the content body that is being reproduced, and notifies the server of this together with the terminal ID of the client itself.

  Here, the content ID can be generated by using a feature vector composed of a power spectrum obtained for each of a plurality of frequency components at a plurality of sampling points extracted at predetermined intervals from a predetermined position of the content. . According to such an ID generation method, identification information can be obtained from the content body without changing the original music file, and the identification can be performed without depending on the file compression method (MP3, ATRAC, etc.). Since information can be obtained, it can be used for content search in a wide range as common identification information.

  On the server side, a notification consisting of a set of a content ID and a terminal ID is received from each client that reproduces the content, and this is managed as real-time information. In addition, the server manages a user information database including the terminal ID and address information of the corresponding user, maps the location of the simultaneous viewing user on the map, and stores the number of simultaneous viewing users (number gauge) to each client. provide feedback.

  Therefore, on the client side, the location of a person who is in contact with the same content such as music or video can be confirmed on the display screen of the Japan map or the world map. From the client user's point of view, people who are listening to the same song at the same time can be met. Meet people with common interests and values that you can't easily meet, don't even know when you are nearby. In other words, you can enjoy the joy of “I met a person who can talk about the goodness of this song!”.

  FIG. 10 shows a configuration example of a display screen on the client device that is reproducing the content. In the example shown in the figure, the distribution of people who are in contact with the same content such as music and video on the map of Japan is displayed along with attribute information (artist name, song name, performance time, etc.) regarding the currently playing content. . On this map display, the location of the person who is listening to the same song is marked. Clicking this mark activates functions such as chat and instant messaging. The number of simultaneous viewing users (number gauge) is also displayed. When the number of people gauge reaches a predetermined value (50 people in the illustrated example), an event is provided to each user who watches simultaneously (described later).

  At this time, communication in a virtual world such as chat or a bulletin board is prepared for a user who enjoys the same content in the real world. As a result of information being exchanged between users through synchronous or asynchronous communication, a purchase intention of a product may be aroused. In addition, they share excitement among the owners of common interests and values, and have event characteristics (see FIG. 11).

  When users enjoying the same content communicate synchronously, those who share a common interest (those who play content with the same ID, that is, listen to the same music at the same time in different places or the same People who are watching movies) are attracted in a virtual shared space. Specifically, the presence of a person with the same interest is displayed on the screen (see FIG. 10), and a chat request (n × n) can be set for a communication applicant.

  FIG. 12 shows an example of a screen configuration for drawing users who are enjoying the same content into a virtual shared space such as chat and guiding them to communication.

  In the example shown in the figure, the distribution of people who are in contact with the same content such as music and video on the map of Japan is displayed along with attribute information (artist name, song name, performance time, etc.) regarding the currently playing content. . On this map display, the location of the person who is listening to the same song is marked. This mark is displayed by distinguishing whether or not communication such as chat is desired. When the mark of a user who desires communication is clicked, a chat or other synchronous communication function is activated. In addition, messages between those who are already chatting are displayed dynamically (motion graphic). The messages of those who are already chatting are displayed dynamically (motion chart is skipped even if the presence of the person who is currently viewing the same content is not displayed on the map) It is assumed that conversations will look dynamic when they are in communication mode while watching music and movies directly.

  In addition, when users who enjoy the same content communicate asynchronously, create a bulletin board for each target content (music or video) that is being viewed for messages that do not specify the target part of the comment, A message can be presented. In addition, a bulletin board related to the same content is automatically presented to the next person who accesses the same content, and comments can be added at any time.

  As for the message specifying the target part of the comment, it is possible to enjoy the result of pasting information on the object described later as asynchronous communication.

  In FIG. 13, by confirming the location of people who are in contact with the same content such as music and video on the display screen of Japan map or world map, the operation of bringing users together in a virtual shared world is realized. The functional structure of the client and server for this is shown typically.

  The client includes a content reproduction unit 51, a user interface 52, a content acquisition unit 53, a media reading unit 54, a content storage unit 55, a content ID extraction unit 56, a terminal ID holding unit 57, and a message generation unit. 58, a message transmission / reception unit 59, a map display data analysis unit 161, and a chat / data analysis unit 162.

  The content reproduction unit 51 performs a reproduction operation of content such as a specified music piece or video according to a command from the user via the user interface 52.

  The content acquisition unit 53 acquires content to be played back by the content playback unit 51. More specifically, when the specified content is stored as a local file such as a hard disk device, the content acquisition unit 53 acquires the content therefrom. Alternatively, when the content is provided in the form of a portable medium such as a CD or a DVD, the content acquisition unit 53 acquires the content read by the media reading unit 54 loaded with this medium. If the local file does not exist, the content acquisition unit 53 acquires the content via the network 1 from a site that provides the content in a format such as MP3 or ATRAC.

  The content ID extraction unit 56 extracts unique identification information, that is, a content ID from the content body without modifying the content (same as above). The terminal ID holding unit 57 holds a unique terminal ID for each client device.

  The message generation unit 58 generates a message for notifying content use including the content ID obtained by the content ID extraction unit 56 and the terminal ID held by the terminal ID holding unit 57. Then, the message transmission / reception unit 59 transmits this message to a server that provides a shared space to users who use the same content.

  On the other hand, the server that provides the shared space includes a message transmission / reception unit 62, a message analysis unit 63, a database management unit 64, a music reproduction database 65, a music data database 66, a message generation unit 67, and map display data. A generation unit 163, a map display data database 164, a chat processing unit 165, and a user information database 166 are provided.

  The message transmission / reception unit 62 receives a message from each client that uses the content via the network. The message analysis unit 63 analyzes a message received from the client.

  If the received message from the client is a notification of content use, the content ID and terminal ID are extracted, and the database management unit 64 updates the music playback database 65 based on the message analysis result, and the music data database. 66 searches are performed (same as above).

  On the client side, for example, in response to a user command via the user interface 52, a map display request message for requesting map information representing the location of the user enjoying the same content can be generated and transmitted.

  When the received message from the client is a map display request, the server searches the music reproduction database 65 to find the terminal ID enjoying the same content, and the user information database 166. To find out the location of each found user. As shown in FIG. 14, the user information database 166 manages user information by using a combination of the terminal ID and the address information of the corresponding user as a record. Then, map display data is extracted from the map display data database 164, and the location of the simultaneous viewing user is mapped on the map. The message generator 67 generates a message based on the map display data obtained in this way. This message is transmitted to the corresponding client by the message transmitting / receiving unit 62.

  On the client side, when a message from the server is received, the message analysis unit 60 analyzes it. If the message from the server is map display data, the map display data analysis unit 161 analyzes this to generate a map display screen (see FIG. 10), which is sent via the user interface 52. Display on the screen.

  As described above, on this map display, a mark is attached to the location of a person who is listening to the same song. This mark is displayed by distinguishing whether or not communication such as chat is desired. A chat request message can be generated and transmitted by clicking the mark of a user who desires communication.

  When the received message from the client is a chat request, the server refers to the music playback database 65, and the chat processing unit 165 plays back the same content as the chat request source client at the same time and wishes to chat. Find other clients that are active and activate the chat function between these clients.

  On the client side, when the message from the server is chat data, the chat data analysis unit 162 analyzes this and displays the conversation content on the screen using the map display screen (see FIG. 12). thing).

  FIG. 15 shows an operation of bringing together users in a virtual shared world by confirming the location of a person who is in contact with the same content such as music or video on the display screen of Japan map or world map. The processing procedure executed in the client is shown in the form of a flowchart.

  The client transmits a map display request message with the ID of the currently reproduced content to the server that provides the shared world to those who enjoy the content (step S21), and waits until it is received (step S22). ).

  When the map display data is received, it is displayed and output on the display screen (step S23) (see FIG. 12).

  The distribution of people in contact with the same content such as music and video is displayed on the map of Japan. On this map display, the location of the person who is listening to the same song is marked. This mark is displayed by distinguishing whether or not communication such as chat is desired.

  If the mark of the user who wishes to communicate is clicked with the mouse (step S24), the click position is detected (step S25), and a chat request message with the user corresponding to the click position is generated and transmitted to the server ( Step S26).

  As a result, the chat function is activated between users enjoying the same content (step S27). In addition, messages between those who are already chatting are displayed dynamically (motion graphic). The messages of those who are already chatting are displayed dynamically (motion chart is skipped even if the presence of the person who is currently viewing the same content is not displayed on the map) It is assumed that conversations will look dynamic when they are in communication mode while watching music and movies directly.

  FIG. 16 also shows the operation of bringing users together in a virtual shared world by confirming the location of people who are in contact with the same content such as music and video on the display screen of Japan map and world map. In order to do so, a processing procedure executed in the server is shown in a flowchart form.

  When a map display request message is received from the client (step S31), first, the music reproduction database 65 (see FIG. 5) is searched to obtain a user ID that enjoys the same music as the requesting client (step S31). S32).

  Next, the user information database 166 (see FIG. 14) is searched to confirm the location of each client enjoying the same music as the requesting client (step S33).

  Then, the location of the simultaneous viewing user is mapped on the map such as the Japan map or the world map, and map display data is generated (step S34). Then, this map display data is transmitted to the request source client (step S35).

  Here, when a chat request is received from a client (step S36), a chat function is activated between users enjoying the same content (step S37). In addition, messages between those who are already chatting are displayed dynamically (motion graphic).

  In addition, when chatting in real time, you may be able to let the other party listen to the recommended part, such as this part of this song is recommended (use of part ID, recommendation, viewing Use as an action).

  The selection of music and movies has a very high preference and is considered to reflect the person's interests and values. Therefore, new content recommended by people listening to the same content (songs, etc.) at the same time (or in the same context) is very likely to match the interest of the recommended person, and thus leads to product purchases. It seems to be easy.

B-3. Pasting Information to an Object In this embodiment, various types of information can be pasted to content such as music or video that the user is viewing. It is also possible to specify the part to be pasted. The pasted information can be browsed later.

  Information to be pasted can be divided into information that can be enjoyed synchronously and information that can be enjoyed asynchronously. The information to be pasted includes the following.

(1) How to enjoy in sync
Add one applause or percussion:
While enjoying the music, you can enjoy applause, percussion, etc. by tapping keys (buttons). The action (mark) is affixed to the struck playback position in the content. For those who are enjoying the same music at the same time, you can hear the sound of applause and percussion, and the mark is added at the same time.

2Addition of coco lover mark:
A favorite mark is pasted to particularly like this part of the music. Specifically, when a favorite piece is reached while music is flowing, a favorite mark is attached by pressing a key (button).

3 Add comments to that part:
For example, you can paste not only messages related to the entire song, but also comments about “that part of the song” (excellent anecdotes when creating lyrics for that part of the performance technique of that part).

(2) Asynchronous enjoyment For those who have played the same music later, the pasted information (applause mark, here favorite mark, comment group for the part, etc.) can be said to be asynchronous communication. In other words, it can be said that it exists as a bulletin board for music (video).

  FIG. 17 shows a configuration example of an operation screen for pasting various information to the music content being reproduced.

  In the example shown in the figure, information to be added to the content is converted into parts and can be selected from a tool palette and used.

  The strip-shaped display at the approximate center of the screen expresses the playback position of the music content on the time axis. When playing a song, when the user reaches a favorite part or wants to add other information such as a comment, the user can move the corresponding part from the tool palette by dragging and dropping. .

  For example, a clap mark is affixed to the corresponding playback position by hitting a key as if it were a session during playback of a song. Also, by taking out the heart mark from the tool palette and pasting it on the music content, it is possible to clearly indicate that the corresponding playback position is the user's favorite part. Also, by inserting a comment at a specific playback position of a music piece, it is possible to paste music information such as the wonder of the performance technique of the corresponding part and anecdotes related to the creation of lyrics of that part into the content.

  FIG. 18 schematically shows a functional configuration of a client and a server for realizing an operation of pasting various pieces of information to contents such as music and video that the user is viewing.

  The client includes a content reproduction unit 51, a user interface 52, a content acquisition unit 53, a media reading unit 54, a content storage unit 55, a content ID extraction unit 56, a terminal ID holding unit 57, and a message generation unit. 58, a message transmission / reception unit 59, a message analysis unit 60, and a mark addition processing unit 261.

  The content reproduction unit 51 performs a reproduction operation of content such as a specified music piece or video according to a command from the user via the user interface 52.

  The content acquisition unit 53 acquires content to be played back by the content playback unit 51. More specifically, when the specified content is stored as a local file such as a hard disk device, the content acquisition unit 53 acquires the content therefrom. Alternatively, when the content is provided in the form of a portable medium such as a CD or a DVD, the content acquisition unit 53 acquires the content read by the media reading unit 54 loaded with this medium. If the local file does not exist, the content acquisition unit 53 acquires the content via the network 1 from a site that provides the content in a format such as MP3 or ATRAC.

  The content ID extraction unit 56 extracts unique identification information, that is, a content ID from the content main body without modifying the content. The terminal ID holding unit 57 holds a unique terminal ID for each client device.

  The message generation unit 58 generates a message for notifying content use including the content ID obtained by the content ID extraction unit 56 and the terminal ID held by the terminal ID holding unit 57. Then, the message transmission / reception unit 59 transmits a message for notifying the use of the content to a server that provides a shared space to users who use the same content.

  On the other hand, the server providing the shared space includes a message transmission / reception unit 62, a message analysis unit 63, a database management unit 64, a music reproduction database 65, a music data database 66, a message generation unit 67, and screen display data. A generating unit 262.

  The message transmission / reception unit 62 receives a message for notifying content use from each client using the content via the network.

  The message analysis unit 63 analyzes the received message from the client. For example, in the case of a content usage notification message, the content ID and the terminal ID are extracted. When the content used by the client is music, the content ID is the music ID. In the case of a pasting information message, a combination of the music ID and music information data is extracted from the message.

  The database management unit 64 updates the music reproduction database 65 and searches the music data database 66 based on the message analysis result. Here, the music reproduction database 65 records a combination of a music ID and a terminal ID as a record (see FIG. 5), and which client uses which content. The music data database 66 stores a combination of the music ID and music information data as a record (see FIG. 6) and stores information closely related to each content.

  The screen display data generation unit 262 refers to the music data database 66 and generates screen display data relating to the music content being played back on the client side.

  The message generator 67 generates a message to the client based on the music information data obtained by searching the music data database 66. These messages are transmitted to the corresponding client by the message transmitting / receiving unit 62.

  On the client side, when a message from the server is received, the message analysis unit 60 analyzes this and extracts screen display data related to the content being reproduced. Then, a screen for adding information to the music (see FIG. 17) is displayed via the user interface 52.

  The client user can instruct the addition of marks such as applause marks, favorites, and balloons via an operation screen for pasting information to the music content being played. The mark addition processing unit 261 performs a process for adding a mark to be pasted on the content based on a user input via the user interface 52. The message generation unit 58 generates a message using the added marks as music data, and the message transmission / reception unit 59 sends the message to the server.

  On the server side, when the music data message is received, the contents of the music data database 66 are updated, and the screen display data generation unit 262 updates the screen display data based on the updated contents of the database. The updated screen display data is converted into a message by the message generation unit 67 and sent to the client by the message transmission / reception unit 62.

  FIG. 19 shows a processing procedure executed in the client in the form of a flowchart in order to realize an operation of pasting various kinds of information to contents such as music and video that the user is viewing. .

  First, on the operation screen as shown in FIG. 17, a tab at the lower edge of the window frame is clicked and “Add Information” is selected.

  A medium such as a CD is loaded into the medium reading unit 54, or in response to an instruction from the user via the user interface 52, reading of a content such as a music is started (step S41).

  Along with the reading of the music content, the server is requested for screen display data to be used during music playback (step S42).

  If the screen display data can be successfully received from the server side (step S43), it is displayed on the screen via the user interface 52 (step S44).

  The user can perform mark addition processing on the reproduced content via this display screen (step S45). As already described, on the information pasting operation screen as shown in FIG. 17, the band-like display in the approximate center of the screen represents the playback position of the music content on the time axis, During playback, when a desired part is reached or other information such as a comment is to be added, the corresponding part is moved by drag-and-drop operation from the tool palette.

  For example, a clap mark is affixed to a corresponding playback position by hitting a key as if a session is being played while a music is being played. Also, by taking out the heart mark from the tool palette and pasting it on the music content, it is possible to clearly indicate that the corresponding playback position is the user's favorite part. Also, by placing a speech bubble at a specific playback position of a song and inserting a comment, it is possible to paste content information such as the wonderfulness of the performance technique of the corresponding part and anecdotes related to the creation of lyrics of that part.

  The mark added by the user toward the content on the operation screen as shown in FIG. 17 is sent to the server as music data (step S46). On the server side, the screen display data is updated based on the music data received from each client.

  Thereafter, the process returns to step S43, and each time new screen display data is received from the server, the same mark addition processing as described above is repeatedly executed.

  In addition, FIG. 20 shows a processing procedure executed in the server in the form of a flowchart in order to realize an operation of pasting various information to contents such as music and video that the user is viewing. ing.

  When the server receives a screen display request from the client (step S51), the server searches the music data database 66 (step S52) and generates screen display data (step S53). Then, this screen display data is transmitted to the requesting client (step S54).

  When the server receives the updated music data from the client (step S55), the server updates the contents in the music data database 66 (step S56).

  Further, along with the update of the music data, the screen display data is updated (step S57) and transmitted to the client (step S58).

B-4. In a shared world where people with common interests meet, realized by the event sharing space providing server, when a certain number of users watching the same media content at the same time reach a certain number of people, an event occurs, and those people Prepare a mechanism for new experiences at the same time. Therefore, people who meet using the same content such as music and video can have a new experience at the same time.

  As shown in FIG. 21, in the shared space, the number of people remaining is displayed until a certain number of people necessary for starting the event is reached. Users who have already logged in to the shared space gather the number of people so as to reach a certain number of people by speaking to friends, which leads to the promotion of service usage.

  Examples of new experiences include the premier and limited edition content of the original media content as shown below.

For one music, you can listen to a remix version of the same song.
2 Listen to songs in the same artist's concert order. Reproduce the music of a concert 20 years ago in the same order.
In the case of 3 movies, an uncut version will be screened.
4 You can see the movie of the movie making situation.
5 Comments on movies, related information, information presentation to actors.

  If there are 10 people listening to the same song at the same time, XX. There is also a mechanism that allows you to experience new experiences step by step, such as △△△ when you reach 50 people. For example, if 10 people are enjoying the same song at the same time, they will be able to provide only one phrase of the artist's pre-release new song or limited-edition version of the song. To do.

  Also, in the fan club, announce the date and time in advance, everyone will play the same song at the same time (ensure the number of people who enjoy the same song at the same time) and participate in the event to trigger the event You may be allowed to enjoy it actively.

  In addition, in the event development when a certain number of people are reached, the development reflecting the time (time zone) is also possible. For example, if it reaches 50 people at night, the music of the night version arrangement may be heard.

  FIG. 22 shows a client and server for realizing an operation in which an event is generated when a user who is simultaneously viewing the same media content reaches a certain number or more, and the people simultaneously experience a new experience. A functional configuration is schematically shown.

  The client includes a content reproduction unit 51, a user interface 52, a content acquisition unit 53, a media reading unit 54, a content storage unit 55, a content ID extraction unit 56, a terminal ID holding unit 57, and a message generation unit. 58, a message transmission / reception unit 59, a message analysis unit 60, and a music data storage unit 61.

  The content reproduction unit 51 performs a reproduction operation of content such as a specified music piece or video according to a command from the user via the user interface 52.

  The content acquisition unit 53 acquires content to be played back by the content playback unit 51. More specifically, when the specified content is stored as a local file such as a hard disk device, the content acquisition unit 53 acquires the content therefrom. Alternatively, when the content is provided in the form of a portable medium such as a CD or a DVD, the content acquisition unit 53 acquires the content read by the media reading unit 54 loaded with this medium. If the local file does not exist, the content acquisition unit 53 acquires the content via the network 1 from a site that provides the content in a format such as MP3 or ATRAC.

  The content ID extraction unit 56 extracts unique identification information, that is, a content ID from the content main body without modifying the content. The terminal ID holding unit 57 holds a unique terminal ID for each client device.

  The message generation unit 58 generates a message for notifying content use including the content ID obtained by the content ID extraction unit 56 and the terminal ID held by the terminal ID holding unit 57. The message generator 58 generates a screen display data request message for outputting an event screen from the user interface 52. Then, the message transmission / reception unit 59 transmits these messages to a server that provides a shared space to users who use the same content.

  On the other hand, the server providing the shared space includes a message transmission / reception unit 62, a message analysis unit 63, a database management unit 64, a music reproduction database 65, a music data database 66, a message generation unit 67, and special content. An accumulation unit 361 and a screen display data generation unit 362 are provided.

  The message transmission / reception unit 62 receives a message for notifying the use of content and a request message for event screen display data from each client using the content via the network. The message analysis unit 63 analyzes the received message from the client.

  The database management unit 64 updates the music reproduction database 65 and searches the music data database 66 based on the message analysis result. Here, the music reproduction database 65 records a combination of a music ID and a terminal ID as a record (see FIG. 5), and which client uses which content. The music data database 66 stores a combination of the music ID and music information data as a record (see FIG. 6) and stores information closely related to each content.

  The screen display data generation unit 67 searches the music playback database 65 in response to the event screen display data request, and totals the number of users who are enjoying the same content at the same time, and generates event screen display data. . The message generator 67 generates a message for transmitting the screen display data to the client.

  The message generation unit 67 generates a message for transmitting the music information data obtained by searching the music data database 66 to the client.

  These messages are transmitted to the corresponding client by the message transmitting / receiving unit 62.

  On the client side, when a message from the server is received, the message analysis unit 60 analyzes this and extracts event screen display data. Alternatively, information closely related to the content being reproduced such as music information data is extracted. Then, the music information data is recorded in the music information data storage unit 61, and is displayed on the screen via the user interface 52 (or voice output), etc., and presented to the user.

  In FIG. 23, an event is generated when a user watching the same media content at the same time reaches a certain number or more, and this is executed in the client in order to realize an operation in which those people have a new experience at the same time. The processing procedure is shown in the form of a flowchart.

  First, on the operation screen as shown in FIG. 21, a tab at the lower edge of the window frame is clicked to select “Event”.

  Then, the client transmits a screen display data request message to the server (step S61).

  Thereafter, if the screen display data can be successfully received from the server (step S62), this is displayed on the screen (step S63).

  FIG. 24 shows an event that occurs when a user who is simultaneously viewing the same media content reaches a certain number or more, and that the people simultaneously experience a new experience. The processing procedure to be executed is shown in the form of a flowchart.

  When an event screen display data request message is received from any of the clients (step S71), the music reproduction database 65 is searched to count the number of clients enjoying the same content as the client at the same time (step S72). .

  Then, based on the database search result, event screen display data as shown in FIG. 21 is generated (step S73) and transmitted to the requesting client (step S74).

  At this time, if the number of clients enjoying the same content at the same time has reached a predetermined number (step S75), the special content relating to the currently reproduced content is extracted from the special content storage unit 361, and the same content is retrieved. The message is distributed to all clients enjoying at the same time (step S76).

B-5. My favorite
My Favorite is a library of music you like. Particularly favorite parts are marked, and it is possible to create a link specifying the part. You can also "recommend" my favorite song to the chat partner.

  FIG. 25 schematically shows a functional configuration of the client and the server for realizing the My Favorite function.

  The client includes a content reproduction unit 51, a user interface 52, a content acquisition unit 53, a media reading unit 54, a content storage unit 55, a content ID extraction unit 56, a terminal ID holding unit 57, and a message generation unit. 58, a message transmission / reception unit 59, a message analysis unit 60, and a personal data creation processing unit 461.

  The content reproduction unit 51 performs a reproduction operation of content such as a specified music piece or video according to a command from the user via the user interface 52.

  The content acquisition unit 53 acquires content to be played back by the content playback unit 51. More specifically, when the specified content is stored as a local file such as a hard disk device, the content acquisition unit 53 acquires the content therefrom. Alternatively, when the content is provided in the form of a portable medium such as a CD or a DVD, the content acquisition unit 53 acquires the content read by the media reading unit 54 loaded with this medium. If the local file does not exist, the content acquisition unit 53 acquires the content via the network 1 from a site that provides the content in a format such as MP3 or ATRAC.

  The content ID extraction unit 56 extracts unique identification information, that is, a content ID from the content main body without modifying the content. The terminal ID holding unit 57 holds a unique terminal ID for each client device.

  The message generation unit 58 generates a message for notifying content use including the content ID obtained by the content ID extraction unit 56 and the terminal ID held by the terminal ID holding unit 57. Then, the message transmission / reception unit 59 transmits a message for notifying the use of the content to a server that provides a shared space to users who use the same content.

  On the other hand, the server that provides the shared space includes a message transmission / reception unit 62, a message analysis unit 63, a database management unit 64, a music reproduction database 65, a bulletin board database 463, a message generation unit 67, and a screen display data generation unit. 462.

  The message analysis unit 63 analyzes the received message from the client. For example, in the case of a content usage notification message, the content ID and the terminal ID are extracted. When the content used by the client is music, the content ID is the music ID. In the case of a personal data message, personal data is extracted from the message.

  The database management unit 64 updates the music reproduction database 65 and searches the bulletin board database 463 based on the message analysis result. Here, the music reproduction database 65 records a combination of a music ID and a terminal ID as a record (see FIG. 5), and which client uses which content. The bulletin board database 463 stores a combination of the terminal ID and the content / file storage position as a record (see FIG. 6) and stores information closely related to each content.

  The screen display data generation unit 462 refers to the bulletin board database 463 and generates screen display data for the bulletin board based on the personal data sent from the client.

  The message generator 67 generates a message to the client based on the created bulletin board screen display data. These messages are transmitted to the corresponding client by the message transmitting / receiving unit 62.

  On the client side, when a message from the server is received, the message analysis unit 60 analyzes this and extracts screen display data related to the content being reproduced. Then, a screen for adding information to the music is displayed via the user interface 52.

  FIG. 26 shows a processing procedure executed in the client in the form of a flowchart in order to realize the My Favorite function between users who are simultaneously viewing the same media content.

  First, on the operation screen as shown in FIG. 21, the tab at the lower edge of the window frame is clicked and “My Favorite” is selected.

  Then, the client transmits a screen display data request message to the server (step S81).

  Thereafter, if the screen display data can be successfully received from the server (step S82), this is displayed on the screen (step S83).

  The user of the client device can create personal data on the My Favorite screen (step S84). Then, the created personal data is transmitted to the server (step S85).

  Thereafter, the process returns to step S82, and if screen display data updated based on the personal data created on the client side is received, it is displayed on the screen.

  In addition, FIG. 27 shows a processing procedure executed in the server in the form of a flowchart in order to realize the My Favorite function among users who are simultaneously viewing the same media content.

  When the server receives a screen display request from the client (step S91), the server searches the bulletin board database 66 (step S92) and generates screen display data (step S93). Then, this screen display data is transmitted to the requesting client (step S94).

  When the server receives the updated personal data from the client (step S95), the server updates the contents in the personal database 66 (step S96).

  Further, along with the update of the bulletin board database, the screen display data is updated (step S97) and transmitted to the client (step S98).

B-6. Advertisement system Based on a community where users who are interested in the same content such as music and video meet, and at the same time, an advertisement linked with the content being reproduced is presented. In the example of the communication screen shown in FIG. 12, the image information of the advertisement A and the advertisement B linked to the content is arranged on the right side.

  Advertisements linked to the music or movie being played are presented. However, the advertisement content to be displayed is determined in relation to the music or video currently being played back, not linked to the already purchased product. Therefore, it can be said that the number of times of reproduction is greater than the number of purchases (that is, the number of times of advertisement exposure is large), and information presented during viewing (including before and after) is more interesting. For example, a past album of the artist currently being played or a work of the same director as the movie being played is presented as an advertisement.

  Further, according to the past viewing history and purchase history of the client user himself / herself, an advertisement is presented by a recommendation system based on the viewing / purchase history of others in this community.

B-6. Part ID (designation of content playback section)
In synchronous or asynchronous communication, a part ID for designating a specific part of content such as music is attached, and the part is designated on the receiver side to reproduce the content.

  When viewing during synchronous communication, if the part ID is used (only this part of the song is heard), the sender designates that part. For example, a specific phrase in a song can be auditioned using an IP phone or the like. In this case, not voice-based communication but voice communication can be realized. The action of promoting the purchase of contents works by specifying the playback section in such synchronous communication.

  In the case of asynchronous communication, like My Favorite (described later), when the other party browses the favorite library and tries to view it, the receiving side designates that portion (reproduction desired portion). For example, when a comment corresponding to a specific part of content is transmitted on a homepage, chat, bulletin board, or the like, a part (reproduction section) to be commented is tagged with a part ID and used. The part ID may be pasted to the mail and sent.

  In this service, when information is to be pasted on a content being played such as music or a movie, the part ID is recognized by marking the place to be pasted. For example, it is possible to mark a part to be commented at the time of music playback and attach a comment to the part later.

  FIG. 28 schematically shows a mechanism of a music introduction service that specifies a part ID, that is, a content playback section. As shown in the figure, a collaborative operation among three parties: a WWW site that introduces music, a WWW client that accesses the music introduction homepage, and a content site that provides (sells) the introduced music content As a result, it is possible to realize a music introduction service that is closely linked to the original media content.

  A WWW client accesses a WWW site where music is introduced according to a predetermined URL, and assembles a home page on the WWW browser screen. On this home page, the link reference information including the content identifier for accessing the corresponding content and the designation of the section corresponding to the comment in the music is embedded in the comment information introducing the music.

  FIG. 29 shows an example of this link reference information. In the example shown in the figure, a reference to a medium is described in a text format as in a normal HTTP link. Here, the numerical data after mid is a content unique identifier and is preferably used in common on the network. The numerical values indicated by “from” and “duration” are designations of playback sections in the content, and represent locations corresponding to the introductory comment “This phrase has a good baseline”.

  As an example of a method for generating a content unique identifier, an identifier is obtained using a feature vector consisting of a power spectrum obtained for each of a plurality of frequency components at a plurality of sampling points extracted at predetermined intervals from a predetermined position of a music The method of calculating is mentioned. According to this method, the identification information can be obtained from the content body without changing the original music file, and the identification information can be obtained without depending on the file compression method. It can be used for searching content in a wide range as information (described above).

  The user of the WWW client can start search processing for the corresponding music content by selecting (for example, clicking with a mouse) link reference information of interest on the browser screen. First, the WWW client generates identification information from each content on its own local storage (HDD), and whether there is content having the same identification information as the unique identifier mid included in the link reference information. Search for it. If the content exists, the reproduction process for the designated reproduction section is performed.

  If the content cannot be found in the local storage, the content site (remote storage) is further accessed. Then, identification information is generated from each content on the remote storage (HDD), and it is searched whether there is content having the same identification information as the unique identifier mid included in the link reference information. When the desired content can be found, the content is downloaded through a predetermined purchase procedure.

  FIG. 30 shows an operation procedure for receiving the music introduction service on the WWW client in the form of a flowchart. This operation is actually realized in such a form that the CPU executes a predetermined program code.

  It is assumed that the user clicks on the link reference information anchor displayed on the browser screen (step S101). Here, the link reference information corresponds to an introduction or comment on a certain music piece.

 In such a case, first, the unique identification information is generated from the content stored in the local storage, and it is determined whether there is any that matches the identification information included in the link reference information (step S102). .

  If the corresponding content can be found on the local storage, it is read from the local storage (step S103). Then, it is determined whether or not the content playback section is specified in the link information (step S104). If a playback section is designated, the section is searched from the content (step S105), and the content is played back (step S106).

  On the other hand, if the content does not exist in the local storage, the server that provides the content on the network searches for the content using the content unique identifier included in the link reference information as a key (step S107). In such a case, the server generates unique identification information from the content stored in its own storage, and determines whether there is a match with the identification information included in the link reference information.

  If the corresponding content can be found in the remote storage on the server, the client acquires it from the remote storage (step S103). Then, it is determined whether or not the content playback section is specified in the link information (step S104). If a playback section is designated, the section is searched from the content (step S105), and the content is played back (step S106).

  By such processing, the contents are automatically reproduced by the link reference information on the text among those who own the same media such as music contents. Therefore, by introducing such a mechanism on the wide area network, for example, efficient and attractive communication between people who love the same music can be realized.

  On the other hand, a link open at a site that does not yet have content leads to playback of an icon sample version that promotes the sale of the content. Therefore, such a mechanism can be used when recommending a favorite song to others by e-mail or the like (step S108).

  In addition, it may be set in advance for each browser to which server to search when content is not in the local storage. Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 31, a server to be searched when there is no content may be included in the link (for example, in the form of an argument).

  Note that it is also possible for the communicating parties to directly introduce a certain piece of music by utilizing so-called P2P technology, and for example, either Napster or Gnutera system can be applied.

As described above, according to the present invention, it is possible to realize an information providing service that gives a user a sharing experience suitably linked to media content. Such an information providing service can be developed into, for example, the following services or businesses.
(1) Pasting comments on the national assembly video and real-time chat between viewers (2) Comments and applause on sports broadcasts. Even if you are away, you can support with virtual sharing experience.
(3) During E-learning, it is used for communication via the same teaching materials and objects.

  The present invention has been described in detail above with reference to specific embodiments. However, it is obvious that those skilled in the art can make modifications and substitutions of the embodiment without departing from the gist of the present invention. That is, the present invention has been disclosed in the form of exemplification, and the contents described in the present specification should not be interpreted in a limited manner. In order to determine the gist of the present invention, the description of the scope of claims should be considered.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Network computing system 10 ... Internet 20 ... Small network (LAN)
DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 21 ... Router 25 ... WWW server 26 ... Mail server 30 ... Public telephone network 40 ... Gateway system 51 ... Content reproduction part, 52 ... User interface 53 ... Content acquisition part, 54 ... Media reading part 55 ... Content storage part, 56 ... Content ID extraction unit 57 ... Terminal ID holding unit, 58 ... Message generation unit 59 ... Message transmission / reception unit, 60 ... Message analysis unit 61 ... Music data storage unit 62 ... Message reception unit, 63 ... Message analysis unit 64 ... Database management , 65 ... Music reproduction database 66 ... Music data database, 67 ... Message generation unit 100 ... User computer (client)

Claims (14)

Receiving a first message including content identification information for identifying content from a client;
A search step of searching for content related information corresponding to the content identification information included in the first message with reference to a content related information database in which a combination of content identification information and content related information is recorded;
A first message transmission step of converting the screen display data for displaying the content related information at the content reproduction position into a message and transmitting the message to the client based on the content related information obtained by the search in the search step;
A second message receiving step of receiving, from the client side, a second message containing content-related information added to the content playback position in accordance with a user process;
A database update step of updating the contents of the content related information database based on the content related information included in the second message;
An information providing method characterized by comprising: A second message transmission step of updating the screen display data in accordance with the update of the content-related information database in the database update step into a message and transmitting the message to the client;
The information providing method according to claim 1. The screen display data includes an area in which content-related information to be added to the content is converted into an icon part,
Corresponding content-related information is added to the content playback position in response to an operation on the icon part by the user during content playback, and an icon component corresponding to the location corresponding to the content playback position in the screen display data is displayed. Is displayed,
The information providing method according to claim 1. Processing performed by the user during content playback is added as content related information to the corresponding playback position of the content,
During the content reproduction, when the process performed by the user arrives at the reproduction position added as the content related information, the process performed by the user is reproduced.
The information providing method according to claim 1. Receiving a second message including the content related information added to the playback position where the user has performed processing for adding content related information during content playback;
The information providing method according to claim 1. When a plurality of pieces of content related information are recorded in the content related information database for the content, in the second message transmission step, the pieces of content related information are arranged and displayed in order based on the corresponding reproduction positions. Generate screen display data and send it to the client,
The information providing method according to claim 1. A third message receiving step of receiving a third message including content identification information from a second client different from the client;
A second search step of searching for content related information corresponding to content identification information included in the third message with reference to the content related information database;
Based on the content-related information obtained by searching in the second search step, screen display data for displaying content-related information during playback of content on the second client side is generated, and the screen display A third message sending step for converting the data into a message and sending it to the second client;
The information providing method according to claim 2. The screen display data represents the playback position of the content on the time axis.
The information providing method according to claim 1. The display of the corresponding mark of the screen display data is changed according to the elapsed time after the content related information is added,
The information providing method according to claim 1. In the search step, based on the content identification information, search for the corresponding content together with the corresponding content related information,
A streaming delivery step of streaming the content obtained by searching in the search step to the client;
The information providing method according to claim 1. First message receiving means for receiving a first message including content identification information for identifying content from a client;
Search means for searching for content related information corresponding to the content identification information included in the first message with reference to a content related information database in which a combination of content identification information and content related information is recorded;
First message transmitting means for converting the screen display data for displaying the content related information at the playback position of the content into a message and transmitting the message to the client based on the content related information obtained by the search by the search means;
Second message receiving means for receiving, from the client side, a second message containing content-related information added to the content playback position in accordance with user processing;
Database update means for updating the contents of the content related information database based on the content related information included in the second message;
An information providing apparatus comprising: The search means searches the corresponding content together with the corresponding content related information based on the content identification information,
A streaming delivery means for streaming delivery of the content obtained by the search means to the client;
The information providing apparatus according to claim 11. A first message transmission step of transmitting a first message including content identification information for identifying content to a server;
A message receiving step of receiving, from the server, a message including screen display data for displaying content-related information at a playback position of the content in response to transmitting the first message;
A display step for displaying the screen display data based on the received second message;
A content-related information adding step of adding content-related information to the content playback position according to the user's processing;
A second message transmission step of transmitting a third message including the added content-related information to the server;
An information presentation method characterized by comprising: First message transmission means for transmitting a first message including content identification information for identifying content to a server;
Message receiving means for receiving, from the server, a message including screen display data for displaying content-related information at a playback position of the content in response to transmitting the first message;
Display means for displaying the screen display data based on the received second message;
Content-related information adding means for adding content-related information to the playback position of the content in accordance with user processing;
Second message transmitting means for transmitting a third message including the added content-related information to the server;
An information presentation method characterized by comprising: