JP2016174274A - Network system and content distribution method - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a method for economically and efficiently achieving content distribution with each of distribution forms such as unicast, multicast, and broadcast through a common distribution system.SOLUTION: The network system includes a content multiplex control section 10 for multiplexing content digital signals of different distribution forms transmitted from a plurality of distribution server devices 91, 92 and 93 and distributing a multiple digital signal after multiplexing to a sharing type distribution network 84; and filter built-in receivers 20, for which a distribution form of receiving content is set, for extracting a digital signal of content that coincides with the set distribution form out of the content contained in the multiplexed digital signal when receiving a multiplexed digital signal from the distribution network.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

  The present invention relates to a network system and a content distribution method for distributing content such as video.

  As a typical distribution form for distributing content such as digital video, unicast distribution that distributes individually according to the viewing request from each user, and multicast that distributes to the user group that requested viewing for the same content There is delivery.

  FIG. 1 shows a configuration diagram of a network system for unicast distribution. The distribution server 91 encodes (encodes) the content by a predetermined method and transmits a digital signal. The unicast delivery NW 81 is an IP-based network. On the user side, the receiver 94 receives a digital signal received via the network, and a user device such as a set top box (STB) 95 selects and decodes predetermined content. In this configuration, content corresponding to the viewing request from each user is distributed to the individual STB 95.

  FIG. 2 shows a configuration diagram of a network system for multicast distribution. The configuration apparatus is the same as in FIG. 1, but the content distribution form is different. The distribution server 92 and the router or switch in the multicast distribution NW 82 manage the viewing request user group for each content using a mechanism such as IGMP (Internet Group Management Protocol) / MLD (Multicast Listener Discovery). Deliver in groups.

  As an example of the implementation method, as shown in FIG. 2, the multicast distribution NW 82 distributes all contents to all users, and then the receiver 94 sends the contents to the subordinate STB 95 according to the relationship between the contents and the viewing request group. A method for controlling distribution or discarding can be considered (Non-Patent Document 1).

  In addition, the above is a general network system for IP-based networks, but it does not manage / control viewing requests / distribution in higher layers, and digital content can be handled in the same way as video distribution via radio waves. A broadcast-type network system that distributes to all users has also been proposed (Non-Patent Document 2).

  In this distribution form, as shown in FIG. 3, the distribution server 93 and user-side devices such as the STB 95 are connected by a broadcast distribution NW 83. In the broadcast distribution NW 83, all contents are not IP-based routing, for example, optical signals Distributed at the lower level of the level.

  As described above, although there are a plurality of distribution forms, it is assumed that the contents are appropriately applied according to the viewing user scale of each content, the service model of the distribution provider, and the like.

  Since there are various service models for content distribution, it is assumed that individual network systems such as those shown in FIGS. 1 to 3 are used in combination according to each distribution form described above. In such combined use of individual networks, it is conceivable to construct individual network systems assuming a necessary bandwidth according to each distribution form. In such a network system, it can be said that the capital investment is inefficient because the content distribution service in each distribution form may not be fully used and the transmission bandwidth of each network system may be greatly reduced.

  In addition, there may be a case where a distribution company develops a service in a plurality of distribution forms or a case where it is desired to change a distribution form depending on time. In that case, it is necessary for the distribution company to take a procedure for opening the corresponding network system every time the distribution form is changed, and there is a concern that the service development cannot be performed quickly and flexibly.

  As described above, when an individual network system is used in combination according to each distribution form, there is a possibility that the band use in each distribution form and the speed and flexibility of the service development of the distribution provider may become inefficient. .

Masakazu Miyamoto, Hiroaki Sato, “Study on IP multicast delivery control method for multi-branch E-PON access with high-speed zapping performance”, IEICE Technical Report NS 2011-254, March 2012 Yoshitaka Hamada, Naoyoshi Nakamura, Kimiyuki Koyamada, "Prototype of FTTH digital broadcasting batch delivery device using 10G Ethernet", IEICE Technical Report CS 2014-38, July 2014

  Therefore, an object of the present invention is to realize economically and efficiently content distribution by each distribution form such as unicast, multicast, and broadcast by a common distribution system.

The network system according to the present invention includes:
A content multiplexing control unit that multiplexes digital signals of different contents transmitted from a plurality of distribution server devices, and distributes multiplexed digital signals to a distribution network;
When the distribution form of the content to be received is set and the multiplexed digital signal is received from the distribution network, the digital signal of the content that matches the set distribution form from the contents included in the multiplexed digital signal A receiving device for extracting,
Is provided.

  The content multiplexing control unit may allocate a transmission band of the distribution network for each distribution form, and multiplex digital signals having a plurality of transmission bands different for each distribution form.

The content multiplexing control unit further multiplexes digital signals of different contents transmitted from a plurality of distribution server devices,
In the receiving device, a distribution provider of the content to be received is set, and when the multiplexed digital signal is received from the distribution network, the set distribution form is selected from the contents included in the multiplexed digital signal. You may extract the digital signal of the content which corresponds and matches the set delivery provider.

  The content multiplexing control unit may allocate a transmission band of the distribution network for each distribution company and multiplex digital signals of a plurality of transmission bands different for each distribution company.

A plurality of the content multiplexing control unit and the receiving device;
The first content multiplexing control unit among the plurality of content multiplexing control units transmits a digital signal of content transmitted from the distribution server device to a first receiving device group included in the plurality of receiving devices,
The second content multiplexing control unit, which is different from the first content multiplexing control unit among the plurality of content multiplexing control units, is predetermined in the multiplexed digital signal transmitted from the first content multiplexing control unit. The digital signal of the content transmitted from the distribution server device is further multiplexed, and the multiplexed digital signal after multiplexing is sent to a second receiving device group different from the first receiving device group included in the plurality of receiving devices. You may send it.

A plurality of the receiving devices;
The first receiving device of the plurality of receiving devices has a region to be distributed, and when receiving the multiplex digital signal from the distribution network, from the content included in the multiplex digital signal, A digital signal of content defined in a set area may be extracted and distributed to receiving apparatuses in the set area excluding the first receiving apparatus among the plurality of receiving apparatuses.

A distribution control operation system that sets a different identifier for each distribution form and notifies the content multiplexing control unit and the receiving device;
The content multiplexing control unit attaches an identifier notified from the distribution control operation system, multiplexes digital signals of content,
The receiving apparatus may extract a digital signal of content that matches the set distribution form, using the identifier notified from the distribution control operation system.

The content distribution method according to the present invention includes:
A content multiplexing procedure for multiplexing digital signals of contents transmitted from a plurality of distribution server devices and having different distribution forms, and distributing the multiplexed digital signals to the distribution network;
When the distribution form of the content to be received is set and the multiplexed digital signal is received from the distribution network, the digital signal of the content that matches the set distribution form from the contents included in the multiplexed digital signal Receiving procedure to extract,
In order.

  These inventions can be combined as much as possible.

  According to the present invention, content distribution in each distribution form such as unicast, multicast, and broadcast can be realized economically and efficiently by a common distribution system.

The block diagram of the network system of a unicast delivery is shown. 1 is a configuration diagram of a network system for multicast distribution. 1 shows a configuration diagram of a network system for broadcast distribution. FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram of a network system according to Embodiment 1. FIG. 4 shows an exemplary configuration of a network system according to a second embodiment. 10 illustrates an example of a configuration of a network system according to a third embodiment. 10 illustrates an example of a configuration of a network system according to a fourth embodiment. 10 illustrates an example of a configuration of a network system according to a fifth embodiment. 10 illustrates an example of a configuration of a network system according to a sixth embodiment. 10 illustrates an example of a configuration of a network system according to an eighth embodiment. An example to the frame which provided distribution form ID and provider ID is shown. An example of the correspondence table which matched distribution form ID and the distribution form is shown. An example of the corresponding | compatible table which matched provider ID and provider is shown. 20 illustrates an example of a configuration of a network system according to a ninth embodiment. An example of a frame with an area ID is shown. An example of the correspondence table which matched area ID and a delivery area is shown. 18 illustrates an example of a configuration of a network system according to a tenth embodiment.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In addition, this invention is not limited to embodiment shown below. These embodiments are merely examples, and the present invention can be implemented in various modifications and improvements based on the knowledge of those skilled in the art. In the present specification and drawings, the same reference numerals denote the same components.

(Embodiment 1)
FIG. 4 shows an example of the configuration of the network system according to the present embodiment. The network system according to the present embodiment includes a plurality of distribution servers 91, 92, and 93 that function as distribution server devices, a content multiplexing control unit 10, a shared distribution network 84, and a filter built-in receiver 20 that functions as a reception device. And STB 95 functioning as a user apparatus.

  The filter built-in receiver 20 includes a digital signal receiver 21 and a filter 23. The distribution form of the content to be received is set in advance in the filter 23 of the filter built-in receiver 20.

  Distribution servers 91, 92, and 93 have different distribution forms. For example, the distribution server 91 is a unicast distribution server, the distribution server 92 is a multicast distribution server, and the distribution server 93 is a broadcast distribution server. Distribution servers 91, 92, and 93 encode content and transmit digital signals. The content is arbitrary, for example, digital video and audio. As an example of the output signals from the distribution servers 91, 92, and 93, an Ethernet frame (Ethernet is a registered trademark) can be considered.

The content distribution method according to the present embodiment includes a content multiplexing procedure and a reception procedure in order.
In the content multiplexing procedure, the content multiplexing control unit 10 multiplexes digital signals of contents transmitted from a plurality of distribution servers 91, 92, and 93 having different distribution forms, and the multiplexed digital signals are transmitted to the shared distribution network. 84.
In the reception procedure, when the receiver with built-in filter 20 receives the multiplexed digital signal from the shared distribution network 84, the digital signal of the content that matches the set distribution form is selected from the contents included in the multiplexed digital signal. Extract and output to STB 95.

  The content multiplexing control unit 10 multiplexes and outputs the digital signals output from the distribution servers 91, 92, and 93. A configuration of the content multiplexing control unit 10 may be an L2 switch, for example, a configuration in which digital signals output from each distribution server 91, 92, 93 in a GbE or 10GbE format are multiplexed and output in a 10GbE format. Can be considered. Further, as an example of a method for identifying the output from each of the distribution servers 91, 92, 93, VLAN-ID is conceivable, and methods such as port VLAN and tag VLAN are conceivable.

  As a configuration of the content multiplexing control unit 10, not only Ethernet-based L2 switches but also multiplexing methods in various frame formats such as OTN-based switches can be considered.

  The shared distribution NW 84 is a network having a function of distributing the multiplexed digital signal from the content multiplexing control unit 10 to all the filter built-in receivers 20. For the shared distribution network 84, the topology may include a ring, a star, a bus, and a combination thereof.

  Further, as a relay system for multiplexed digital signals at each node in the shared distribution network 84, 1R relay only for optical signal level correction (amplification) or 3R relay for reproducing a digital signal can be considered. As for the distribution method of signals to the links to a plurality of nodes in the subsequent stage, a distribution method at the optical signal level using an optical splitter or the like, or a distribution method at an electric signal level using an L2 switch or the like can be considered.

  The filter built-in receiver 20 receives the multiplexed digital signal via the shared distribution network 84 and extracts a desired signal. For example, the digital signal receiving unit 21 receives and reproduces the multiplexed digital signal, and the filter 23 extracts a digital signal in a predetermined distribution form.

  The operation of the filter 23 corresponds to the multiplexing method in the content multiplexing control unit 10, identifies a digital signal extracted by a predetermined VLAN-ID or OTN frame, transmits it to the STB 95 in the subsequent stage, and other signals are Discard. The STB 95 selects and decodes arbitrary content from digital signals in a predetermined distribution form from the receiver 20 with a built-in filter.

  In the case of FIG. 4, in the filter built-in receivers 20 of the users U1-1 to U1-3 receiving the unicast distribution type content distribution service, each digital signal receiving unit 21 receives multiplexed digital signals (contents A and B). , C, a, b, c, α, β, and γ), the filter 23 first identifies the contents A, B, and C that are unicast distribution, and further responds to the user request. After identifying and extracting the content, the content is transmitted to each STB 95 of the user who made the request. For example, when the user U1-1 requests the content A, the filter 23 of the filter built-in receiver 20 of the user U1-1 identifies the content A and transmits it to the STB 95. The same operation is performed for the multicast distribution type.

  Further, in the filter built-in receivers 20 of the users U3-1 to U3-3 receiving the broadcast distribution type content distribution service, each digital signal receiving unit 21 receives multiplexed digital signals (contents A, B, C, a, (b, c, α, β, and γ) are reproduced, the filter 23 identifies the contents α, β, and γ that are broadcast distributions, and transmits them all to the STB 95.

  With such a configuration, various delivery modes such as unicast, multicast, and broadcast shown in FIGS. 1 to 3 can be collectively realized by a common delivery system in a single network system. For this reason, the network system according to the present embodiment can economically and efficiently realize content distribution according to each distribution form.

  FIG. 4 shows an example in which each user contracts only for a single distribution form. However, when a plurality of distribution forms are contracted, the filter 23 identifies contents of a plurality of distribution forms. To be transmitted to the STB 95.

(Embodiment 2)
FIG. 5 shows an example of the configuration of the network system according to the present embodiment. The network system according to the present embodiment includes distribution servers 91-i, 91-ii, 92-i, 92-ii, 93-i, and 93-ii of a plurality of distribution companies. In the filter 23 of the filter-incorporated receiver 20, a distributor of the content to be received is set.

  The provider C1-i performs unicast distribution from the distribution server 91-i, the provider C1-ii performs unicast distribution from the distribution server 91-ii, and the provider C2-i performs multicast distribution from the distribution server 92-i. The business operator C2-ii distributes multicast from the distribution server 92-ii, the business operator C3-i distributes multicast from the distribution server 93-i, and the business operator C3-ii distributes multicast from the distribution server 93-ii.

  In the content multiplexing procedure, the content multiplexing control unit 10 further multiplexes digital signals of contents with different distribution providers. For example, the content multiplexing control unit 10 multiplexes and outputs digital signals from the distribution servers 91-i, 91-ii, 92-i, 92-ii, 93-i, and 93-ii of a plurality of distribution providers. . As a configuration of the content multiplexing control unit 10, for example, digital signals output in GbE or 10GbE format from each distribution server using an L2 switch are multiplexed and output in a 10GbE format. As a method for identifying output from each distribution server, it is conceivable to use VLAN-ID, and methods such as port VLAN and tag VLAN are conceivable.

  In the reception procedure, when the receiver with built-in filter 20 receives the multiplexed digital signal from the shared distribution network 84, the set distribution is matched with the set distribution form from the contents included in the multiplexed digital signal. A digital signal of content that matches the provider is extracted and output to the STB 95. For example, the operation of the filter 23 of the receiver with built-in filter 20 corresponds to the multiplexing method in the content multiplexing control unit 10, identifies a digital signal to be extracted with a predetermined VLAN-ID or OTN frame, and performs the subsequent STB95. And discard other signals.

  For example, a case where the user U1-i-1 contracts with the business operator C1-i and the user U1-i-1 receives the unicast distribution content A from the distribution server 91-i will be described. In this case, in the filter built-in receiver 20 of the user U1-i-1 receiving the unicast distribution type content distribution service, each digital signal receiving unit 21 receives the multiplexed digital signals (contents A, B, C, D, a , B, c, d, α, β, γ, and δ), the filter 23 identifies the unicast distribution contents A and B of the operator C1-i, and further the user U1-i- The content A corresponding to one request is identified and extracted, and transmitted to the STB 95 of the user U1-i-1. The same operation is performed for a user who has contracted with another business operator C1-ii and a multicast distribution type.

  Also, the users U3-i-1 and U3-i-2 have contracted with the business operator C3-i, and the users U3-i-1 and U3-i-2 have broadcast distribution content α from the distribution server 93-i. , Β will be described. In the filter built-in receivers 20 of the users U3-i-1 to U3-ii-2 who receive the broadcast distribution type content distribution service, each digital signal receiving unit 21 receives multiplexed digital signals (contents A, B, C, (Including D, a, b, c, d, α, β, γ, and δ), the filter 23 identifies the contents α and β that are broadcast distributions and transmits them all to the STB 95. The filter built-in receivers 20 of the users U3-ii-1 and U3-ii-2 who have contracted with the business operator C3-ii identify the contents γ and δ that are broadcast distributions, and transmit them all to the STB 95.

  With such a configuration, it is possible to collectively realize the content distribution of a plurality of distribution companies in various distribution modes shown in FIGS. 1 to 3 with a single network system.

  Note that FIG. 5 shows an example in which each user contracts only with a single distribution form and a distribution company. In this filter 23, a plurality of distribution forms and contents of distribution providers may be identified and transmitted to the STB 95.

(Embodiment 3)
FIG. 6 shows an example of the configuration of the network system according to the present embodiment. In the network system according to the present embodiment, the content multiplexing control unit 10 shown in FIG.

  The band allocation control unit 11 in the content multiplexing control unit 10 allocates the transmission band of the shared distribution network 84 for each distribution form and distribution company within the total band in the shared distribution network 84, and distributes the distribution form and distribution company. Multiple digital signals of different transmission bands are multiplexed for each. For example, the operator C2-i transmits the content b to the users U2-i-1 and U2-i-2, and the operator C3-ii transmits the contents γ and δ to the users U3-ii-1 and U3-ii-2. When transmitting to, the band allocation control unit 11 allocates bands to the distribution servers 92-i and 93-ii. At this time, in the case of distribution in the 10 GbE format in the shared distribution network 84, each distribution mode of 10 Gbps band and band allocation to the distribution provider are controlled.

  Here, for the content whose distribution form is broadcast, for example, the amount of bandwidth obtained from the product of the number of channels and the bandwidth for each ch is allocated to the content whose distribution form is broadcast, while the content whose distribution form is unicast / multicast is allocated. For example, the control may be such that the bandwidth amount used at the same time is calculated with statistical probability, and the set bandwidth amount is allocated.

  When receiving the multiplexed digital signal, the filter built-in receiver 20 extracts a digital signal that has a desired distribution form and matches a desired distribution operator from the multiplexed digital signal. At this time, the filter 23 of the receiver with built-in filter 20 may be operated in the same manner as in the first and second embodiments. However, as with the band allocation control unit 11, a predetermined band allocation is assigned to the content of each distribution mode. It may have a function of setting.

(Embodiment 4)
FIG. 7 shows an example of the configuration of the network system according to the present embodiment. The network system according to this embodiment includes a plurality of content multiplexing control units 10-i and 10-ii, and the content multiplexing control units 10-i and 10-ii have a multistage connection configuration in the shared distribution network 84. Yes. For example, in a two-stage configuration, one content multiplexing control unit 10-i is installed for contents A, B, a, b, α, β for national distribution, and the other content multiplexing control unit 10-ii , Installed for content C, D, c, d, γ, δ for distribution in a specific area.

  Distribution servers 91-i, 92-i, and 93-i that distribute contents for nationwide distribution are connected to the content multiplexing control unit 10-i, and distribution servers 91-ii and 92-ii that distribute contents limited to a predetermined region. , 93-ii are connected to the content multiplexing control unit 10-ii. The content multiplexing control unit 10-i functions as a first receiving device, and the content multiplexing control unit 10-ii functions as a second receiving device. The user UA2 outside the predetermined area is the first receiving apparatus group, and the user UA1 in the predetermined area is the second receiving apparatus group.

  The content multiplex control unit 10-i distributes the contents A, B, a, b, α, and β for nationwide distribution to the filter built-in receiver 20 of the user UA2 outside the predetermined area via the shared distribution network 84. Delivered to the content multiplexing control unit 10-ii. The content multiplexing control unit 10-ii multiplexes the contents A, B, a, b, α, and β for national distribution and the contents C, D, c, d, γ, and δ for specific area distribution, The signal is distributed to the filter built-in receiver 20 of the user UA1 in a predetermined area.

  In this case, the filter 23 provided in the filter built-in receiver 20 of the user UA1 in a predetermined region is a multiplexed digital signal (contents A, B, C, D) obtained by multiplexing both outputs of the content multiplexing control units 10-i and 10-ii. , A, b, c, d, α, β, γ, and δ). On the other hand, the filter 23 provided in the filter built-in receiver 20 of the user UA2 outside the predetermined area is a multiplexed digital signal (contents A, B, a, b, α, β) output from the first content multiplexing control unit 10-i. Desired content is extracted on the basis of (including only).

  As described above, since the content multiplexing control units 10-i and 10-ii have a multi-stage configuration in the network system according to the present embodiment, specific contents C, D, c, d, γ, and δ are assigned. The distribution can be limited to only the user UA1 in the predetermined area.

(Embodiment 5)
FIG. 8 shows an example of the configuration of the network system according to the present embodiment. In the network system according to the present embodiment, the filter built-in receiver 20 has a multistage connection configuration in the shared distribution network 84. For example, in a two-stage configuration, one filter built-in receiver 20-i is installed as a user-side device as in the first to fourth embodiments, and the other filter built-in receiver 20-ii is shared distribution. It is installed in the network 84 to restrict distribution of content for specific area distribution.

  The filter built-in receiver 20-ii functions as a first receiving device, and the area for distribution is set to the user UA2 other than the predetermined area. The filter built-in receiver 20-i functions as a second receiving device and is connected to the STB 95.

  Distribution servers 91-i, 92-i, and 93-i distribute contents A, B, a, b, α, and β for nationwide distribution, and distribution servers 91-ii, 92-ii, and 93-ii are limited to regions. Contents C, D, c, d, γ, and δ are distributed. The content multiplexing control unit 10 multiplexes all contents (including contents A, B, C, D, a, b, c, d, α, β, γ, and δ) and distributes them to the shared distribution network 84. .

  In the content multiplex control unit 20-ii, the area to be distributed is set to the user UA2 other than the predetermined area. Upon receiving the multiplexed digital signal from the shared distribution network 84, the content multiplexing control unit 20-ii receives the contents (contents A, B, C, D, a, b, c, d, α) included in the multiplexed digital signal. , Β, γ, and δ), a digital signal of content (including only content A, B, a, b, α, and β) defined in the region of the user UA2 is extracted, and a filter for the user UA2 is incorporated. Deliver to the receiver 20-i.

  The filter built-in receiver 20-i of the user UA1 in the predetermined area receives the multiplexed digital signal (contents A, B, C, D, a, b, c, d, α, β, γ, δ) by the digital signal receiving unit 21. Include) and the filter 23 extracts the desired content. On the other hand, the filter built-in receiver 20-i of the user UA2 outside the predetermined area receives the multiplexed digital signal (contents A, A, N) output from the first content multiplexing control unit 20-ii by the digital signal receiving unit 21. B, a, b, α, and β are included), and the filter 23 extracts the desired content.

  As described above, in the network system according to the present embodiment, since the filter built-in receivers 20-i and 20-ii have a multistage connection configuration, the user UA1 in a predetermined area receives all the contents, The reception of some contents can be restricted to the user UA2 outside the area.

(Embodiment 6)
FIG. 9 shows an example of the configuration of the network system according to the present embodiment. The network system according to the present embodiment includes a plurality of content multiplexing control units 10-i and 10-ii, a distribution control operation system 30, and the content multiplexing control units 10-i and 10-ii include the bandwidth allocation control unit 11. Is further provided.

  The distribution control operation system 30 remotely controls the operation of the band allocation control unit 11 in the content multiplexing control unit 10 and the filter 23 in the filter built-in receiver 20. Thereby, according to the request | requirement from a delivery provider, a delivery form, the use band for every delivery provider, and the delivery content to each user can be controlled.

  For example, when a new distribution form is added, the distribution control operation system 30 notifies the band assignment control unit 11 and the filter built-in receiver 20 of the distribution form ID corresponding to the new distribution form. The ID processing rule registration unit 12 of the bandwidth allocation control unit 11 registers the notified combination of the distribution form and distribution form ID in the distribution form ID and distribution form correspondence table of the distribution form ID assigning unit 13. The ID processing rule registration unit 22 of the filter built-in receiver 20 registers the notified distribution form and distribution form ID pair in the distribution form ID and distribution form correspondence table of the filter 23.

  For example, when a new distribution company is added, the distribution control operation system 30 notifies the band allocation control unit 11 and the filter built-in receiver 20 of the company ID corresponding to the new distribution company. The ID processing rule registration unit 12 of the bandwidth allocation control unit 11 registers the notified combination of the delivery provider and the provider ID in the correspondence table of the provider ID and the delivery provider of the provider ID assigning unit 14. The ID processing rule registration unit 22 of the filter built-in receiver 20 registers the notified combination of the distribution provider and the provider ID in the correspondence table between the provider ID of the filter 23 and the distribution provider.

  Although not shown in FIG. 9, a terminal that controls the distribution form, bandwidth used, and distribution contents for each user of the distribution control operation system 30 is installed in the distribution company, and the distribution company directly performs these controls. You may be able to do it.

  The communication path of the control signal from the distribution control operation system 30 to the band allocation control unit 11 in each content multiplex control unit 10 and the filter 23 in the filter built-in receiver 20 is shared distribution network 84. May be shared, or a control signal transmission network 85 may be separately constructed and used.

(Embodiment 7)
The shared distribution network 84 is shared with data communication other than content distribution, and is configured to share devices in the network with content communication and data communication other than content distribution. Examples of data communication other than content distribution include Internet communication, (virtual) closed network such as connection between distribution companies, and mobile backhaul communication.

  Examples of intra-network devices include 1R / 3R relay devices, L2 switches, and L3 switches (routers) in the relay section. The content multiplexing control unit 10 (including the bandwidth allocation control unit 11) and the built-in filter reception The functions of the device 20 and the internal filter 23 may be arranged in these devices.

  In addition, in the access section, in recent years, a configuration using an optical fiber as a broadband line has become widespread, and in particular, a PON (Passive Optical Network) configuration in which a part of the optical fiber can be shared by a plurality of users is widely deployed. Yes. In the PON configuration, a device called an OLT (Optical Line Terminal) installed in a housing building and an ONU (Optical Network Unit) installed in a user's house are connected at 1: N via an optical splitter. Functions such as the above-described content multiplexing control unit 10 (including the band allocation control unit 11) ”, the filter built-in receiver 20, and the internal filter 23 may be arranged in the OLT, or the filter built-in receiver 20, The function of the internal filter 23 may be arranged in the ONU.

(Embodiment 8)
A specific implementation example of the operations of the content multiplexing control unit 10 and the filter 23 in the above configuration will be described. In the first embodiment and the second embodiment, it is necessary to identify a plurality of distribution forms (unicast, multicast, broadcast) and a plurality of distribution providers and perform logically different networking with the same apparatus and network. is there. FIG. 10 shows an implementation example using an Ethernet (registered trademark) VLAN tag (VID).

  FIG. 10 shows an example of the configuration of the network system according to the present embodiment. In the network system according to the present embodiment, the content multiplex control unit 10 includes an ID processing rule registration unit 12, a distribution form ID adding unit 13, and a provider ID adding unit 14, and the filter built-in receiver 20 includes an ID processing rule. A registration unit 22 and a filter 23 are provided.

  The content multiplex control unit 10 includes functional units (a distribution mode ID assigning unit 13 and a provider ID assigning unit 14) that assign a distribution form ID and a business ID according to a predetermined processing rule to the input frame. . The distribution form ID assigning unit 13 assigns a distribution form ID to the input frame. The provider ID assigning unit 14 assigns a provider ID to the input frame.

  FIG. 11 shows an example of a frame to which an ID is assigned. In this example, the VID mechanism defined by IEEE 802.1Q is utilized. For example, among 12-bit VIDs, 2 bits are associated with a distribution form ID to correspond to a distribution form such as unicast / multicast / broadcast. In addition, another 7-bit area is associated with the provider ID to correspond to a maximum of 128 distribution providers.

  The filter 23 of the filter built-in receiver 20 discards / transfers the received frame according to a predetermined processing rule for each ID.

  The registration of the processing rule can be realized by cooperation with the distribution control operation system 30. The distribution control operation system 30 has a correspondence table of distribution form ID / provider ID and distribution form / provider as shown in FIGS. These tables are updated at a timing such as when a service provider contracts for the network system from a distribution company.

  Furthermore, these tables hold information on the processing rules (discard / forward) for each ID in each filter built-in receiver 20 in the network. The distribution control operation system 30 distributes the table information to the content multiplexing control unit 10 and the filter built-in receiver 20 via the control signal transmission NW 85 shown in FIG. Register.

  The ID processing rule registration unit 12 registers the processing rules received from the distribution control operation system 30 in the distribution form ID assigning unit 13 and the provider ID assigning unit 14. The ID processing rule registration unit 22 registers the processing rule received from the distribution control operation system 30 in the filter 23.

  Although the case of VID has been described above, the way of assigning the bit area is not limited to the above, and an identifier such as an IP address may be used in addition to the VID.

(Embodiment 9)
In the fourth embodiment and the fifth embodiment, it is necessary to perform networking corresponding to various distribution areas in addition to the identification of a plurality of distribution forms / operators by the same apparatus and network. FIG. 14 shows an implementation example using an Ethernet (registered trademark) VLAN tag (VID).

  In the network system according to the present embodiment shown in FIG. 14, the content multiplexing control unit 10 includes an ID processing rule registration unit 12, a distribution form ID grant unit 13, a provider ID grant unit 14, and an area ID grant unit 15, and has a built-in filter. The receiver 20 includes an ID processing rule registration unit 22 and a filter 23.

  FIG. 15 shows an example of a frame to which an ID is assigned. In this example, a double tag mechanism defined by IEEE 802.1ad is used. For example, the C-tag is associated with the distribution form ID and the provider ID as in FIG. 11, and the information about the area is further associated with the S-tag. For example, 10 bits are associated with the area ID, and the distribution areas are associated with prefecture units or finer units.

  In the distribution control operation system 30, in addition to the distribution form ID / provider ID and distribution form / provider correspondence table as shown in FIGS. 12 and 13, an area ID and distribution area correspondence table as shown in FIG. I have it. This table is updated at a timing such as when the service provider contracts for the network system from the distribution company. Processing rule registration using the content multiplexing control unit 10, the filter built-in receiver 20, and the distribution control operation system 30 is the same as in the eighth embodiment.

  Although the case of VID has been described above, the method of allocating the bit area is not limited to the above, and an identifier such as an IP address may be used in addition to VID, or a combination thereof may be used. .

(Embodiment 10)
In the third embodiment and the sixth embodiment, it is necessary to perform bandwidth allocation according to various distribution forms / providers / distribution areas. Therefore, as illustrated in FIG. 17, the content multiplexing control unit 10 includes a bandwidth allocation control unit 11. The bandwidth allocation control unit 11 controls bandwidth allocation for each ID. Thereby, the content multiplexing control unit 10 can perform a bandwidth allocation operation according to the VID of each frame.

  The content multiplexing control unit 10, the filter built-in receiver 20, and the distribution control operation system may be realized by operating a computer. In this case, each configuration may be realized by a CPU (Central Processing Unit) included in each device executing a computer program stored in a storage unit (not shown). The computer program may be stored in a storage medium.

  The present invention can be applied to the information communication industry.

10, 10-i, 10-ii: Content multiplexing control unit 11: Bandwidth allocation control unit 12: ID processing rule registration unit 13: Distribution form ID assigning unit 14: Provider ID assigning units 20, 20-i, 20-ii : Filter built-in receiver 21: Digital signal receiver 22: ID processing rule registration unit 23: Filter 30: Distribution control operation system 81: Unicast distribution network 82: Multicast distribution network 83: Broadcast distribution network 84: Shared distribution network 85 : Control signal transmission networks 91, 92, 93, 91-i, 91-ii, 92-i, 92-ii, 93-i, 93-ii: Distribution server 94: Receiver 95: Set top box

Claims (8)

A content multiplexing control unit that multiplexes digital signals of different contents transmitted from a plurality of distribution server devices, and distributes multiplexed digital signals to a distribution network;
When the distribution form of the content to be received is set and the multiplexed digital signal is received from the distribution network, the digital signal of the content that matches the set distribution form from the contents included in the multiplexed digital signal A receiving device for extracting,
A network system comprising: The content multiplexing control unit allocates a transmission band of the distribution network for each distribution form, and multiplexes digital signals of a plurality of transmission bands different for each distribution form,
The network system according to claim 1. The content multiplexing control unit further multiplexes digital signals of different contents transmitted from a plurality of distribution server devices,
In the receiving device, a distribution provider of the content to be received is set, and when the multiplexed digital signal is received from the distribution network, the set distribution form is selected from the contents included in the multiplexed digital signal. Extract the digital signal of the content that matches and matches the configured distributor,
The network system according to claim 1 or 2. The content multiplexing control unit allocates a transmission band of the distribution network for each distribution company, and multiplexes digital signals of a plurality of transmission bands different for each distribution company,
The network system according to claim 3. A plurality of the content multiplexing control unit and the receiving device;
The first content multiplexing control unit among the plurality of content multiplexing control units transmits a digital signal of content transmitted from the distribution server device to a first receiving device group included in the plurality of receiving devices,
The second content multiplexing control unit, which is different from the first content multiplexing control unit among the plurality of content multiplexing control units, is predetermined in the multiplexed digital signal transmitted from the first content multiplexing control unit. The digital signal of the content transmitted from the distribution server device is further multiplexed, and the multiplexed digital signal after multiplexing is sent to a second receiving device group different from the first receiving device group included in the plurality of receiving devices. Send,
The network system according to claim 1. A plurality of the receiving devices;
The first receiving device of the plurality of receiving devices has a region to be distributed, and when receiving the multiplex digital signal from the distribution network, from the content included in the multiplex digital signal, Extracting a digital signal of content defined in a set region, and distributing the digital signal to a receiver in the set region excluding the first receiving device among the plurality of receiving devices;
The network system according to any one of claims 1 to 5. A distribution control operation system that sets a different identifier for each distribution form and notifies the content multiplexing control unit and the receiving device;
The content multiplexing control unit attaches an identifier notified from the distribution control operation system, multiplexes digital signals of content,
The receiving device extracts a digital signal of content that matches a set distribution form, using the identifier notified from the distribution control operation system.
The network system according to claim 1. A content multiplexing procedure for multiplexing digital signals of contents transmitted from a plurality of distribution server devices and having different distribution forms, and distributing the multiplexed digital signals to the distribution network;
When the distribution form of the content to be received is set and the multiplexed digital signal is received from the distribution network, the digital signal of the content that matches the set distribution form from the contents included in the multiplexed digital signal Receiving procedure to extract,
A content distribution method having the following.

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