JP2017011593A - Content reproduction device, content reproduction method, content transmitter and content transmission method - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To allow for appropriate reproduction of a reproduction limit section, when accumulating and reproducing a program content including a reproduction limit section such as an advertisement section.SOLUTION: A program content including a reproduction limit section is reproduced from an accumulation unit. When the reproduction limit of a reproduction limit section is not released, reproduction operation of a reproduction unit is limited so that the reproduction limit section is normally reproduced. For example, when reproducing a program content from the accumulation unit, reproduction operation of the reproduction unit is limited so that the reproduction limit section is normally reproduced, before time limit of the reproduction limit or when a predetermined number of reproduction times is not reached.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

  The present technology relates to a content reproduction device, a content reproduction method, a content transmission device, and a content transmission method, and more particularly to a content reproduction device that reproduces stored program content.

  Conventionally, program content including an advertisement (CM) section is transmitted by broadcast or communication (see, for example, Patent Document 1). Recently, on the receiving side, program content sent by broadcast or communication is stored in a storage unit, and is played back and viewed at an appropriate timing. At that time, the advertisement section may be skipped or fast-forwarded by the operation of the user (viewer).

JP 2008-199674 A

  An object of the present technology is to enable appropriate reproduction of a reproduction restriction section when program content including a reproduction restriction section such as an advertisement section is stored and reproduced.

The concept of this technology is
A playback unit for playing program content including a playback restriction section from the storage unit;
The content reproduction apparatus includes a control unit that restricts the reproduction operation of the reproduction unit so that the reproduction restriction section is normally reproduced when the reproduction restriction of the reproduction restriction section is not released.

  In the present technology, the program content including the playback restriction section is played from the storage unit by the playback unit. For example, in addition to the case where the content reproduction apparatus itself has, the storage unit may be configured by an external device connected via the Internet or a home network. For example, the playback restriction section includes an advertisement (CM) section, a warning section for giving a warning when viewing the program content, a program promotion section for promoting other programs, and a program main part. Also includes sections that the production side wishes to view in normal playback.

  For example, the information processing apparatus further includes a receiving unit that receives program content together with information indicating a playback restriction section or information for acquiring the information, and a storage control unit that stores the received program content in the storage unit. Also good. In this case, it becomes possible to accurately recognize the playback restriction section in the program content. Further, the receiving unit may further receive information for canceling the restriction of the reproduction restriction section or information for acquiring this information. For example, the information for releasing the restriction includes the number of times of CM playback for which the CM skip / fast forward is unnecessary and the time limit for limiting the CM skip / fast forward.

  When the playback restriction of the playback restriction section is not released by the control unit, the playback operation of the playback section is restricted so that the playback restriction section is normally played back. For example, when the playback unit plays back program content from the storage unit, the playback unit may limit the playback operation of the playback unit so that the playback limit section is normally played before the playback limit time limit. Good. In this case, for example, the control unit does not limit the reproduction operation of the reproduction unit when the reproduction restriction section has been normally reproduced a predetermined number of times even before the reproduction restriction time limit. , May be.

  Also, in this case, for example, the playback restriction section is an advertisement section, and when the advertisement section of the program content is normally played before the playback restriction deadline, the audience rating registration is performed by accessing an external advertisement audience rating measurement server. The communication unit may be further provided. In this case, the advertisement audience rating server can perform audience rating measurement with high accuracy.

  Also, in this case, for example, the playback restriction section is an advertisement period, and when the advertisement section of the program content is normally played before the deadline of the playback restriction, a consideration providing unit that gives the viewer consideration for viewing the advertisement section May be further provided. For example, the consideration providing unit may access an external point server and give points to the viewer. Thus, by giving consideration to the viewer, the viewer can be encouraged to view the advertisement section.

  Further, in this case, for example, the playback restriction section is an advertisement section, and when the playback unit plays the advertisement section of the program content, the normal playback of the advertisement period even after the playback restriction deadline or before the playback restriction deadline. When the number of times is equal to or greater than the predetermined number, a communication unit that accesses an external advertisement providing server and acquires a replacement advertisement may be further provided. By acquiring the replacement advertisement in this way, it is possible to increase the added value of the advertisement.

  In addition, for example, when the playback unit plays back program content from the storage unit, if the normal playback count of the playback limit section included in the program content is less than a predetermined number, the playback limit section is normally played back. As described above, the playback operation of the playback unit may be limited.

  In this case, for example, the playback restriction section is an advertisement section, and when the playback unit plays the advertisement section of the program content, when the number of normal playback of the advertisement section is equal to or greater than a predetermined number, the external advertisement providing server is accessed. And a communication unit for obtaining a replacement advertisement. By acquiring the replacement advertisement in this way, it is possible to increase the added value of the advertisement.

  Also, in this case, for example, the playback restriction section is an advertisement section, and when the playback section plays back the advertisement section of the program content, an external advertisement is provided when a certain period of time has elapsed since being stored in the storage section. The information processing apparatus may further include a communication unit that accesses the server and acquires a replacement advertisement. By acquiring the replacement advertisement in this way, it is possible to increase the added value of the advertisement.

  In this case, for example, the playback restriction section is an advertisement section, and when the program content advertisement section is normally played back, a communication unit that notifies an external server that the advertisement section is normally played back is further provided. It may be made like.

  As described above, in the present technology, when the reproduction restriction of the reproduction restriction section is not released, the reproduction operation of the reproduction unit is restricted so that the reproduction restriction section is normally reproduced. Therefore, it is possible to appropriately reproduce the reproduction restriction section.

  In the present technology, for example, when the playback unit is playing back the playback restriction section and there is a request for skip or fast forward by a viewer operation, when the playback restriction of the playback restriction section is not released. Further, a notification unit that notifies the viewer that the request cannot be satisfied may be further provided. In this case, the user can easily know that the request for skipping or fast-forwarding cannot be handled.

Other concepts of this technology are
A program content acquisition unit for acquiring program content including a playback restriction section;
The content transmission apparatus includes a transmission unit that transmits the program content together with information indicating the reproduction restriction section or information for acquiring the information.

  In the present technology, the program content including the reproduction restriction section is acquired by the program content acquisition unit. The program content is transmitted by the transmission unit together with information indicating the reproduction restriction section or information for acquiring this information. For example, the transmission unit may further transmit information for canceling the restriction of the reproduction restriction section or information for acquiring this information.

  As described above, in the present technology, the program content is transmitted together with information indicating the reproduction restriction section or information for acquiring this information. Therefore, on the receiving side, it is possible to correctly recognize the playback restriction section in the program content and to correctly restrict the playback operation of the playback unit with respect to the playback restriction section.

  According to the present technology, when program content including a reproduction restriction section such as an advertisement section is accumulated and reproduced, the reproduction restriction section can be appropriately reproduced. Note that the effects described in the present specification are merely examples and are not limited, and may have additional effects.

It is a block diagram which shows the structural example of the transmission / reception system as embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the data structure in the new descriptor contained in PMT of MPEG2-TS, or the new box of MP4. It is a block diagram which shows the structural example of a content reproduction apparatus. It is a figure which shows an example of the notification display to the effect that the request | requirement of specific operation, such as a skip and a fast-forward, is not received. It is a figure which shows an example of the table which has start time, end time, and the frequency | count of reproduction | regeneration about each CM area. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the reproduction | regeneration operation | movement of a content reproduction apparatus. It is a figure for demonstrating the reproduction | regeneration operation | movement after the jump in a content reproduction apparatus. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the reproduction | regeneration operation | movement of the content reproduction apparatus at the time of a jump. It is a figure for demonstrating the reproduction | regeneration operation | movement after the jump in a content reproduction apparatus. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the reproduction | regeneration operation | movement of the content reproduction apparatus at the time of a jump. It is a figure for demonstrating the reproduction | regeneration operation | movement after the jump in a content reproduction apparatus. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the reproduction | regeneration operation | movement of the content reproduction apparatus at the time of a jump. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the reproduction | regeneration operation | movement of a content reproduction apparatus. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the reproduction | regeneration operation | movement of the content reproduction apparatus at the time of a jump. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the reproduction | regeneration operation | movement of the content reproduction apparatus at the time of a jump. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the reproduction | regeneration operation | movement of the content reproduction apparatus at the time of a jump. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the reproduction | regeneration operation | movement of a content reproduction apparatus.

Hereinafter, modes for carrying out the invention (hereinafter referred to as “embodiments”) will be described. The description will be given in the following order.
1. Embodiment 2. FIG. Modified example

<1. Embodiment>
[Configuration example of transmission / reception system]
FIG. 1 shows a configuration example of the transmission / reception system 10. In the transmission / reception system 10, a broadcast transmission system 100 and a program providing server (distribution server) 200 are arranged on the transmission side, and a content reproduction device 300 is arranged on the reception side. The program providing server 200 is connected to the content reproduction device 300 through a communication network 400 such as the Internet.

  On the receiving side, the television receiver 510 or the portable terminal 520 is connected to the content reproduction device 300. The content reproduction device 300 and the television receiver 510 or the portable terminal 520 are connected by wire or wireless. In the illustrated example, the content reproduction apparatus 300 exists separately from the television receiver 510 and the portable terminal 520, but a configuration in which the television receiver 510 and the portable terminal 520 have the functions of the content reproduction apparatus 300 is also possible. Conceivable.

  The content reproduction device 300 is connected to various servers through the communication network 400. As various servers, there are a content usage control server 610, an advertisement audience rating measurement server 620, a point server 630, an advertisement providing server 640, a user information management server 650, a content usage history management server 660, and the like. In some cases, a plurality of these servers are configured as a single server.

  The broadcast transmission system 100 transmits program content including an advertisement section (hereinafter referred to as “CM section” as appropriate) as a playback restriction section to the receiving side by broadcasting. The program providing server 200 transmits the program content including the CM section to the receiving side through communication. The broadcast transmission system 100 and the program providing server 200 include a program content acquisition unit that acquires program content from, for example, a storage, and a transmission unit that transmits the program content. The broadcast transmission system 100 and the program providing server 200 transmit various information related to the program content together with the program content. In this case, various information is embedded in the program content.

Various information related to the program content includes, for example, the following information. Here, the information of (3) constitutes information indicating the CM section. Further, the information of (4) and (5) constitutes information for canceling the restriction on the CM section.
(1) ID that can identify program content
(2) ID that can identify CM
(3) Start time and end time in the contents of each CM (4) Time limit for which CM skip / fast forward is restricted (5) Number of CM playbacks for which CM skip / fast forward is not required (6) Each server (cloud server) ) URL

  FIG. 2 shows an example of a data structure in a new descriptor (descriptor) included in the MPEG2-TS PMT, or in a new MP4 box. The field “content_id” indicates an ID that can identify the program content. The field “restriction_expiration_date” indicates a time limit for restricting CM skip / fast-forward. Note that here, the date “date” at which the restriction is released is shown, but it is also possible to indicate the time from the recording until the restriction is released.

  The field “restriction_expiration_count” indicates the number of CM playbacks for which skip / fast forward is not required. The field of “pb_history_server_url” indicates the URL of the content usage history server. The field “ad_pgm_count” indicates the number of CMs (CM sections) in the program content.

  Each field of “ad_pgm_id”, “ad_pgm_start_time”, “ad_pgm_end_time”, and “ad_pgm_server_url” exists as many times as the number of CMs. A field of “ad_pgm_id” indicates an ID that can identify a CM. The field “ad_pgm_start_time” indicates the start time in the program content of the CM. The field “ad_pgm_end_time” indicates the end time in the program content of the CM. The field “ad_pgm_server_url” indicates the URL of the advertisement providing server.

  Note that the structure of the PMT is defined in the MPEG-2 Systems standard (ISO / IEC 13818-1) or the ARIB standard STD-B10 for Japanese broadcasting. The MP4 box structure is defined in ISO / IEC 14496-12.

  In addition, instead of providing a part of the above-described various information together with the program content to the content reproduction apparatus 300, it is also conceivable to provide the content reproduction apparatus 300 from a server (cloud server) connected to the communication network 400. Also, depending on the information, both may be provided to the content reproduction device 300. For example, the operation of performing dynamic control by overwriting the information in the program content with the information of the cloud server is also conceivable.

  For example, the information of (2) to (5) may be provided from the cloud server to the content reproduction device 300. In that case, the content reproduction device 300 sends the information (1) to the cloud server, for example, and acquires the information (2) to (5) of each CM section included in the program content. In this case, the information of (1) constitutes information for acquiring the information of (2)-(5).

  Here, an example of a method for embedding the above-described various information in the program content will be described. For example, in the MPEG2-TS format stream, a descriptor (descriptor) stored in an existing program map table (PMT) is used as an ARIB (Association of Radio Industries and Business) or NextTV-F (Next A new method defined in the provisions of the Generation Television & Broadcasting Promotion Forum and including a field group carrying the above information in the descriptor is conceivable.

  Also, for example, in an MP4 format file, a new box stored in an existing move box (moov box) or move box (moof box) is similarly defined, and the above information is added to the new box. A method of including a group of fields to be carried is conceivable.

  The content reproduction apparatus 300 receives program content transmitted from the broadcast transmission system 100 or the program providing server 200. As described above, this program content includes a CM section. In addition, as described above, various pieces of information are sent to the content reproduction apparatus 300 together with the program content from the broadcast transmission system 100 or the program providing server 200.

  The content reproduction device 300 transmits the program content received from the broadcast transmission system 100 or the program providing server 200 as it is to the television receiver 510 or the portable terminal 520 or stores it in the storage unit. Note that the data may be transmitted to the television receiver 510 or the portable terminal 520 and stored in the storage unit. The content reproduction device 300 reproduces the program content stored in the storage unit at an appropriate timing by a user operation and transmits the program content to the television receiver 510 or the portable terminal 520.

  Here, the storage unit may be included in the content reproduction device 300 itself, or may be configured of a server (for example, the program providing server 200) connected to the communication network 400 on the cloud. When the storage unit is configured by a server on the cloud, the content reproduction device 300 transmits the program content received from the broadcast transmission system 100 or the program providing server 200 to the server via the communication network 400 and stores it. However, the server storing the program content is arranged on the cloud, and the content reproduction apparatus 300 virtually executes the accumulation operation, and the reproduction of the program that has been virtually accumulated is reproduced on the server on the cloud A method of receiving and displaying from the communication network 400 is also conceivable. In this case, it is conceivable that the URL for the program on the server in which the program content is stored is included in a new descriptor included in the PMT of the MPEG2-TS or in a new box of MP4.

  Further, the content reproduction apparatus 300 stores various information received together with the program content from the broadcast transmission system 100 or the program providing server 200, and further stores various information acquired from the cloud server in the storage unit, and uses them appropriately. To do.

  FIG. 3 shows a configuration example of the content reproduction device 300. The content reproduction apparatus 300 includes a control unit 301, a storage unit 302, a digital tuner 303, a communication unit 304, a storage unit 305, an output unit 306, a user operation unit 307, and a display unit 308. .

  The control unit 301 includes a CPU, and controls the operation of each unit of the content reproduction device 300. The storage unit 302 includes a ROM that stores control software and data, and a RAM that constitutes a work area of the CPU. The user operation unit 307 is a part for the user to perform various operations. The display unit 308 displays the status of the content reproduction device 300, the display for the convenience of user operation, and the like. The user operation unit 307 and the display unit 308 constitute a user interface unit.

  The digital tuner 303 receives program content transmitted from the broadcast transmission system 100 by broadcast. The communication unit 304 communicates with a server (cloud server) connected to the communication network 400. The communication unit 304 receives program content distributed from the program providing server 200.

  The storage unit 305 is configured by, for example, an HDD (Hard Disk Drive). The storage unit 305 stores program content received by the digital tuner 303 and the communication unit 304 under the control of the control unit 301 based on a user operation. In addition, the storage unit 305 reproduces the stored program content at an appropriate timing under the control of the control unit 301 based on a user operation. In this sense, the storage unit 305 also constitutes a playback unit.

  Note that program content received by the digital tuner 303 or the communication unit 304 may be stored in a server on the cloud. In that case, the program content received by the digital tuner 303 or the communication unit 304 is sent to the server via the communication unit 304 and stored. However, as described above, this accumulation operation may be virtualized by preliminarily placing program content on a server on the cloud. In this case, the program content is reproduced from the server at an appropriate timing under the control of the control unit 301 based on the user operation.

  The output unit 306 controls the program content received by the digital tuner 303 and the communication unit 304 or the program content reproduced by the storage unit 305 (accumulating the program content in a server on the cloud) under the control of the control unit 301 based on a user operation. If so, the program content reproduced from the server is selectively sent to the television receiver 510 and the portable terminal 520.

  When the content playback device 300 plays back the program content and transmits it to the television receiver 510 or the mobile terminal 520, the CM section for which the playback restriction is not released is played back at normal speed (hereinafter referred to as “normal playback” as appropriate). "). For example, when a normal operation is being performed in this CM section, even if a user requests a specific operation such as skip or fast forward, the request is not accepted.

  In this case, for example, for the convenience of the user, the content reproduction device 300 notifies the user by image display or audio output that a request for a specific operation such as skip or fast forward is not accepted. FIG. 4 shows an example of a notification display displayed on the display unit 308.

  The content playback device 300 determines whether to cancel the playback restriction based on information on the number of normal playbacks (see the “restriction_expiration_count” field in FIG. 2) or the time limit (see the “restriction_expiration_date” field in FIG. 2). It is also conceivable to use both the deadline and the number of times.

  For example, for a CM section in which normal playback has been performed a predetermined number of times, a request for a specific operation such as skip or fast forward during normal playback of the CM section is accepted. In addition, for example, for a CM section that has already expired, a request for a specific operation such as skip or fast-forward during normal playback of the CM section is accepted. In addition, the deadline and the number of times are used together, and the request for the specific operation is accepted for the CM section in which the normal reproduction is performed a predetermined number of times even before the deadline. Here, as the information on the predetermined number of times and the time limit, a value transmitted together with the program content as described above, or a value determined in advance by broadcasting / distribution rules is used.

  When the reproduction restriction is canceled based on the information on the number of times of normal reproduction, the content reproduction apparatus 300 stores the value obtained by counting the number of reproductions of the CM section when the CM section is normally reproduced from the start time to the end time. As shown in FIG. 5, the method of managing the playback history of the CM section of the program content holds a table of the start time, end time, and number of playbacks for each CM section, and the number of times of the part played normally. Can be recorded. Here, in addition to the storage location of the table in the content reproduction device 300, it is also possible to store in the server on the home network or the content usage history management server 660 on the cloud.

  The flowchart in FIG. 6 shows an example of the reproduction operation of the content reproduction apparatus 300. In step ST1, the content reproduction device 300 starts processing. In step ST2, normal playback of the program content is started. Next, the content reproduction device 300 confirms the current reproduction position in step ST3.

  Next, in step ST4, it is determined whether or not the CM section is being reproduced. When determining that the CM section is being played back, the content playback apparatus 300 sets a CM section flag in step ST5.

  Next, in step ST6, the content reproduction device 300 determines whether skip or fast forward is requested. When determining that skip or fast-forward is requested, the content reproduction device 300 determines in step ST7 whether or not the number of reproductions of this CM section is less than a predetermined required number.

  When determining that the number is less than the predetermined required number of times, the content reproduction device 300 notifies the user (viewer) that the request cannot be satisfied in step ST8. As described above, this notification is performed by, for example, image display (see FIG. 4) or audio output. After the process of step ST8, the content reproduction device 300 moves to the process of step ST13.

  Further, when it is determined in step ST7 that the number is not less than the predetermined required number, that is, the predetermined number of required times or more, the content reproduction device 300 performs the requested skip or fast forward in step ST9. After the process of step ST9, the content reproduction device 300 moves to the process of step ST13.

  When determining in step ST4 that the CM section is not being played back, the content playback apparatus 300 determines in step ST10 whether the CM section flag is set. When determining that the CM section flag is set, the content reproduction apparatus 300 increments the number of reproductions of the CM section, that is, increments “+1” in step ST11. Next, in step ST12, the content apparatus 300 resets the CM section flag. After the process of step ST12, the content reproduction device 300 moves to the process of step ST13.

  When it is determined in step ST6 that neither skip nor fast-forward is requested, or when it is determined in step ST10 that the CM section flag is not set, the content reproduction device 300 immediately moves to the process in step ST13.

  In step ST13, the content reproduction device 300 determines whether or not stop of normal reproduction is requested. When determining that the stop of the normal reproduction is not requested, the content reproduction device 300 returns to the process of step ST3 and repeats the same process as described above. On the other hand, when determining that the stop of normal playback is requested, the content playback device 300 ends the playback processing in step ST15.

  In addition, as shown in FIG. 7, when playback is performed after jumping from a position A in the program content to a future position B (B0, B1, B2, B3) in time, the start time is in the range from the position A to the position B. If there is an inner CM section (X1, X2), if that CM section has not been reproduced a predetermined number of times, it is conceivable to perform reproduction from position B after normal reproduction thereof. Here, it is conceivable that the CM section reproduced here is only the CM section having the start time most recently going back from the position B. If the position B is within the range of the CM section, the position immediately after the CM section is reset to the position B.

Here, “jump from position A to position B” means starting normal reproduction after moving from position A to position B by a method other than normal reproduction. A case is mentioned.
(1) Normal playback is performed after reaching the position from position A by fast-forwarding.
(2) Normal playback is performed after the seek bar is moved from position A to position B.
(3) A chapter selection operation starting from position A to position B is performed, and normal playback is started.

  The flowchart of FIG. 8 shows an example of the playback operation of the content playback device 300 at the time of this jump. In step ST21, the content reproduction device 300 starts processing. In step ST22, the reproduction position is set to position B. Next, in step ST23, the content reproduction device 300 determines whether or not the start position of the CM section is included between the position A and the position B.

  When determining that the start position of the CM section is included, the content reproduction device 300 identifies the CM section X having the start position most recently going back from the position B in step ST24. Next, in step ST25, the content reproduction device 300 determines whether the number of reproductions of the CM section X is less than a predetermined necessary number.

  When determining that the number is less than the predetermined required number of times, the content reproduction device 300 determines whether or not the position B is within the range of the CM section X in step ST26. When determining that the position B is within the range of the CM section X, the content reproduction device 300 changes the position B to the end time of the CM section X in step ST27. After the process of step ST27, the content reproduction device 300 moves to the process of step ST28. If it is determined in step ST26 that the position B is not within the range of the CM section X, the content reproduction device 300 immediately moves to the process in step ST28.

  In step ST28, the content reproduction device 300 sets the reproduction position to the start position of the CM section X. Next, the content reproduction apparatus 300 starts normal reproduction in step ST29. Next, the content reproduction apparatus 300 determines whether or not the CM section X is being reproduced in step ST30.

  When determining that the CM section X is being played back, the content playback device 300 determines in step ST31 whether or not skip or fast-forward is requested. When determining that skip or fast-forward is requested, the content reproduction device 300 notifies the user that the request cannot be satisfied in step ST32.

  After the process of step ST32, the content reproduction device 300 returns to the process of step ST30 and repeats the same process as described above. When it is determined in step ST31 that neither skip nor fast forward is requested, the content reproduction device 300 immediately returns to the process of step ST30.

  When determining in step ST30 that the CM section X is not being played back, the content playback device 300 moves to the process in step ST33. In step ST33, the content reproduction device 300 increments the number of reproductions of the CM section X, that is, “+1”. Next, the content device 300 sets the reproduction position to the position B in step ST34.

  After the process of step ST34, the content reproduction device 300 moves to the process of step ST35. When it is determined in step ST23 that the start position of the CM section is not included, the content reproduction device 300 immediately moves to the process in step ST35. In step ST35, the content reproduction device 300 starts normal reproduction.

  After step ST35, the content reproduction device 300 ends the jump process in step ST36. Thereafter, the content playback apparatus 300 performs the playback operation shown in the flowchart of FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 9, when playback is performed after jumping from a position A in the program content to a past position C (C0, C1, C2) in time, a CM having a start time closest to the position C. It is also conceivable to reproduce from the position C after reproducing the section.

  FIG. 10 shows an example of the playback operation of the content playback apparatus 300 at the time of this jump. In step ST41, the content reproduction device 300 starts processing. In step ST42, the reproduction position is set to position C. Next, in step ST43, the content reproduction device 300 determines whether or not there is a CM section having a start position immediately after going back from the position C.

  When determining that there is a CM section, the content reproduction device 300 specifies a CM section Y having a start position most recently retroactive to the position C in step ST44. Next, in step ST45, the content reproduction device 300 determines whether or not the number of reproductions of the CM section Y is less than a predetermined necessary number.

  When determining that the number is less than the predetermined required number of times, the content reproduction apparatus 300 determines whether or not the position C is within the CM section Y in step ST46. When determining that the position C is within the range of the CM section Y, the content reproduction device 300 changes the position C to the end time of the CM section Y in step ST47. After the process at step ST47, the content reproduction device 300 moves to the process at step ST48. If it is determined in step ST46 that the position C is not within the range of the CM section Y, the content reproduction device 300 immediately moves to the process in step ST48.

  In step ST48, the content reproduction device 300 sets the reproduction position to the start position of the CM section Y. Next, the content playback apparatus 300 starts normal playback in step ST49. Next, in step ST50, the content reproduction device 300 determines whether or not the CM section Y is being reproduced.

  When determining that the CM section Y is being played back, the content playback device 300 determines in step ST51 whether or not skip or fast-forward is requested. When determining that skip or fast-forward is requested, the content reproduction device 300 notifies the user that the request cannot be satisfied in step ST52.

  After the process of step ST52, the content reproduction device 300 returns to the process of step ST50 and repeats the same process as described above. If it is determined in step ST51 that neither skip nor fast forward is requested, content reproduction device 300 immediately returns to the process in step ST50.

  When determining in step ST50 that the CM section Y is not being reproduced, the content reproduction device 300 moves to the process in step ST53. In step ST53, the content reproduction apparatus 300 increments the number of reproductions of the CM section Y, that is, “+1”. Next, the content device 300 sets the reproduction position to the position C in step ST54.

  After the process of step ST54, the content reproduction device 300 moves to the process of step ST55. If it is determined in step ST43 that the start position of the CM section is not included, the content reproduction device 300 immediately moves to the process in step ST55. In step ST55, the content reproduction device 300 starts normal reproduction.

  After step ST55, the content reproduction device 300 ends the jump process in step ST56. Thereafter, the content playback apparatus 300 performs the playback operation shown in the flowchart of FIG.

It is also conceivable to limit the reproduction of the above-described CM section to the following cases (see FIG. 11).
(1) When the result d1 obtained by subtracting the end time of the CM section Y from the time of the position C is equal to or less than the predetermined value T1, and / or the time of the position C from the start time of the most recent CM section Z in the future direction from the position C The subtraction result d2 is equal to or greater than a predetermined value T2.
(2) When the result d1 obtained by subtracting the end time of the CM section Y from the time at the position C is equal to or less than the predetermined value T1, and / or the result d3 obtained by subtracting the time at the position C from the time at the position A is equal to or greater than the predetermined T3. If.
(3) When the ratio of d1 to d1 + d2 is less than or equal to a predetermined value.

This can be expressed as follows.
Case 1) IF (d1 <T1) THEN “Play CM section Y”
Case 2) IF (d2> T2) THEN "Play CM section Y"
Case 3) IF (d3> T3) THEN “Play CM section Y”
Case 4) IF ((d1 <T1) and (d2> T2)) THEN "Play CM section Y"
Case 5) IF ((d1 <T1) and (d3> T3)) THEN "Play CM section Y"
Case 6) IF (d1 / (d1 + d2) <P) THEN “Play CM section Y”

  The flowchart in FIG. 12 shows an example of the reproduction operation of the content reproduction apparatus 300 in the case where the above-described limitation is performed. In this case, a process of step ST60 is newly added between step ST44 and step ST45 with respect to the reproducing operation of the flowchart of FIG. In step ST60, the content reproduction device 300 determines whether or not the limitation requirement (any one of cases 1 to 6) is satisfied, and proceeds to the process of step ST45 only when the limitation requirement is satisfied. The rest of the playback operation in the flowchart of FIG. 12 is the same as the playback operation of the flowchart in FIG.

  When a program being broadcast or streaming is being displayed on a display device such as the television receiver 510, it is conceivable to count the number of playbacks for the displayed CM section. For example, for a program received and displayed by the television receiver 510, the number of times of playback is counted by the content usage history management server 660 on the cloud, and the content playback device 300 refers to the history when the same program is recorded and played back. It may be reflected in the reproduction of

  Further, it is conceivable that fast forward / rewind at a predetermined speed or higher is not limited including the CM section. In addition, it is conceivable that editing such as deletion is prohibited for a CM section in which the number of reproductions is less than a predetermined value. On the other hand, it is conceivable that the CM section in which the number of reproductions reaches a predetermined value is controlled not to be reproduced automatically or deleted automatically.

  The number of times that the playback restriction of the CM section is necessary may be set to a very large value or unlimited depending on the program content. However, it is necessary when the number of playbacks in the CM section by each user (viewer) is counted by a server on the cloud and the total number reaches a predetermined value, or when a small number of playbacks is set by re-broadcasting etc. It is conceivable that the number of times of reproduction is changed.

  In that case, the content playback device 300 accesses the content usage control server 610 that manages the required number of playbacks directly or via the content usage history management server 660, and based on the result, the playback restriction of the CM section of the program content is restricted. It may be possible to judge whether it is necessary. In this case, the content reproduction device 300 of each user (viewer) notifies the server that performs aggregation as described above on the cloud when normal reproduction of the CM section is performed.

  In addition, regarding the playback of the CM section, in addition to playing back the one recorded in the storage unit (in the content playback device 300 or in the cloud), the CM streamed or downloaded via the communication network 400 can be used. It is possible to play.

  When selecting what to reproduce, it is conceivable to refer to and use program content usage history and / or various information about the user. For example, it is conceivable to change the contents of the CM based on the number of playbacks in the CM section. Specifically, for example, the recorded CM is played if it has not been played, and the ID of the recorded CM is sent to the advertisement providing server 640 if it has been played, the URL of the replacement CM is received, and the CM is read from the URL. It is possible to acquire and play.

  Further, for example, replacement with the latest CM prepared by the sponsor based on the reproduction date and time can be considered. Specifically, for example, after a predetermined period from the recording date or after the deadline sent as broadcast / distribution metadata, the recorded CM ID is sent to the advertisement providing server 640, and the replacement CM URL is sent. It is conceivable that the CM is received and the CM is acquired from the URL and reproduced.

  Further, for example, user attribute information (age, gender, nationality, address, etc.), information reflecting preferences (program playback / viewing / reservation / storage history, etc.), and access history to CM information (in conjunction with CM) Based on detailed information broadcasted / distributed and browsing status of URL destination sites) and user feedback on CMs (like / dislike, required / unnecessary, purchased), replaced with CMs that are likely to match user needs It is conceivable to replace a CM that seems to be less effective.

  Specifically, for example, at the start of playback of program content, the program content ID or a list of CM IDs in the program content, user attribute information, information reflecting preferences, access history to CM information, CM-related users Feedback information is sent to the advertisement providing server 640, or the advertisement providing server 640 obtains it from the user information management server 650 that stores the information, and the content reproduction apparatus 300 advertises the URL list of the CM group selected based thereon. It is conceivable to reproduce a CM received from the providing server 640 and accessing the URL at the reproduction timing of the CM section.

  In the above description, the case where the reproduction restriction is released based on the information on the number of times of normal reproduction has been described. However, even when the reproduction restriction is released based on the information on the time limit, the content reproduction apparatus 300 performs almost the same reproduction operation. To do. The reproduction operations shown in the flowcharts of FIGS. 13, 14, 15, and 16 show the reproduction operations of the content reproduction device 300 when the reproduction restriction is canceled based on the time limit information, respectively. This corresponds to the reproduction operation shown in the flowcharts of FIGS. However, it is conceivable that the processing of ST11 in FIG. 13, ST33 in FIG. 14, and ST53 in FIG.

  In the flowchart of FIG. 13, the process of step ST7 in the flowchart of FIG. 6 is changed to the process of step ST7A, and the other steps are the same as the flowchart of FIG. In step ST7A, the content reproduction device 300 determines whether the current time is before the reproduction restriction time limit. When determining that it is before the reproduction limit time limit, the content reproduction device 300 proceeds to the process of step ST8. On the other hand, when determining that it is not before the time limit for reproduction restriction, the content reproduction device 300 moves to the process of step ST9.

  In the flowchart of FIG. 14, the process of step ST25 in the flowchart of FIG. 8 is changed to the process of step ST25A, and the other steps are the same as the flowchart of FIG. In step ST25A, the content reproduction device 300 determines whether the current time is before the reproduction restriction time limit. When determining that it is before the reproduction limit time limit, the content reproduction apparatus 300 proceeds to the process of step ST26. On the other hand, when determining that it is not before the time limit for reproduction restriction, the content reproduction device 300 moves to the process of step ST35.

  In the flowcharts of FIGS. 15 and 16, the process of step ST45 in the flowcharts of FIGS. 10 and 12 is changed to the process of step ST45A, and the other steps are the same as the flowcharts of FIGS. The same. In step ST45A, content reproduction device 300 determines whether the current time is before the time limit for reproduction restriction. When determining that it is before the reproduction time limit, the content reproduction device 300 moves to the process of step ST46. On the other hand, when determining that it is not before the time limit for playback restriction, the content playback device 300 moves to the process of step ST55.

  By the way, in free digital broadcasting / distribution based on advertising revenue, real-time audience rating data, which is the basis of the advertising business model, is meaningless when time-shifted viewing becomes common with the spread of digital recording and playback devices. No longer. When a CM (CM section) is normally played (played at normal speed) before a predetermined time limit (for example, the time limit for skipping / fast-forwarding CM), the advertisement audience rating measurement server 620 that measures the audience rating is accessed. Thus, it is conceivable to add the audience rating as in the case of real-time viewing.

  Here, the advertisement viewing rate measurement server 620 is a server for measuring data that is the basis for calculating the advertisement fee, recognizes the CM stored in the storage unit, and plays the CM that has been set in advance for playback. If the rate measurement condition is satisfied, the advertisement audience rating is added. In this case, it is possible to collect not the estimated audience rating by the sample but the audience rating (CM audience rating) data in the actual number actually viewed.

  For the user (viewer), when viewing is performed by playing the program content stored in the storage unit within the CM skip / fast-forward limit period, the point server 630 receives the CM as a privilege for viewing the CM. It is conceivable to access and give points to the point card associated with the user.

  Here, the point server 630 is a server for returning the consideration (points) for viewing the CM of the user to the viewer. The point server 630 recognizes the CM accumulated in the accumulation unit, and the reproduction of the CM is set in advance. If the conditions are met, points are awarded to the point card associated with the user. Users can use this point to pay for paid broadcast viewing, paying for program playback (recorded or downloaded programs) with billing, paying for VOD (video on demand) services via the Internet, etc. Things will be possible.

  Further, even when the CM skip / fast forward restriction period has not elapsed, if the CM is normally played only a predetermined number of times, for example, once, the CM skip / fast forward restriction is applied during the second and subsequent playbacks. It is also possible not to perform the above.

  In addition, when a predetermined time limit (for example, a time limit for which CM skip / fast forward is restricted) has passed, the CM stored in the storage unit is considered to have a reduced advertising value, and the advertisement on the cloud It is conceivable to replace the CM obtained from the (CM) providing server 640. As the replacement CM, a CM based on the viewing tendency of the past program content of the user (viewer) and a regional CM based on information such as the program viewing area are selected.

  Here, the advertisement (CM) providing server 640 is a server for providing a CM to the user (viewer), and if the predetermined condition is satisfied, the old CM stored in the storage unit, commercial Instead of commercials that have become low in value, commercials with high commercial value are offered. In this case, regarding the CM viewing supplied from the advertisement (CM) providing server 640, it is conceivable to reduce the consideration (points) for the CM viewing of the user.

  The flowchart in FIG. 17 shows an example of the playback operation of the content playback device 300. In step ST61, the content reproduction device 300 starts processing. In step ST62, the head of the CM section X is detected in the normal reproduction state of the program content, and then the process proceeds to step ST63.

  In step ST63, the content reproduction device 300 determines whether or not the current time is before the reproduction restriction time limit. When it is before the time limit for reproduction restriction, the content reproduction apparatus 300 determines in step ST64 whether or not the number of reproductions of the CM section X is less than a predetermined necessary number. When determining that the number is less than the required number of times, the content reproduction device 300 turns on the skip / fast-forward prohibiting mode in step ST65.

  After the process of step ST65, content reproduction device 300 moves to the process of step ST66. When it is determined in step ST63 that it is after the reproduction limit time limit, or when it is determined in step ST64 that the number of reproductions of the CM section X is equal to or greater than the required number, the content reproduction apparatus 300 immediately moves to the process of step ST66. .

  In step ST66, the content reproduction device 300 determines whether or not an advertisement replacement condition is satisfied. For example, it is determined that the advertisement replacement condition is satisfied when the current time is after the playback limit time limit, or when the number of playback times in the CM section X is equal to or greater than the required number, even if the current time is within the playback limit time limit. When determining that the advertisement replacement condition is satisfied, the content reproduction device 300 acquires a replacement CM from the advertisement (CM) providing server 640 and performs normal reproduction in step ST67.

  After the process of step ST67, the content reproduction device 300 moves to the process of step ST68. When it is determined in step ST66 that the advertisement replacement condition is not satisfied, the content reproduction device 300 immediately moves to the process in step ST68.

  In step ST68, the content reproduction device 300 determines whether or not the end of the CM section X or the replacement CM is detected. When determining that it has been detected, in step ST69, the content reproduction device 300 increments the number of reproductions of this CM section, that is, “+1”. Next, in step ST70, the content reproduction device 300 turns off the skip / fast forward prohibit mode.

  Next, in step ST71, the content reproduction device 300 determines whether or not the CM section X is an audience rating measurement target. When determining that the target is audience rating measurement, the content reproduction device 300 accesses the advertisement audience rating measurement server 620 and registers the audience rating in step ST72.

  After the process at step ST72, the content reproduction device 300 moves to the process at step ST73. When determining in step ST71 that it is not the target of audience rating measurement, the content reproduction device 300 immediately moves to the process of step ST73.

  In step ST73, the content reproduction device 300 determines whether the CM section X is a point object. When determining that the content is to be pointed, the content reproduction apparatus 300 accesses the point server 630 and performs consideration (points) for viewing the CM section X in step ST74.

  After the process in step ST74, content reproduction device 300 ends the process in step ST75. When determining in step ST73 that the content is not the target of points, the content reproduction device 300 immediately ends the process in step ST75.

  Note that the content reproduction apparatus 300 analyzes the viewing history and recording history of the user (viewer) in the same manner as presenting a list of program content stored (recorded) in the storage unit, and obtains recommended program content. It may be possible to select and present from program content provided by VOD (video on demand). In this case, as a fee required for viewing the VOD program, for example, the points given by viewing the CM as described above can be used. Of course, normal credit card billing and billing with electronic money are also possible.

  Free broadcasts are broadcasts that can be viewed free of charge, but when providing high-value-added content, it may be possible to charge for the recording. For example, as described above, payment using points given in CM viewing, credit card billing, and billing using electronic money are also conceivable.

  In addition, a business model may be considered in which charging is not performed at the time of recording, but charging is performed at the time of playing a recorded program. A method of charging for each reproduction, a method of charging for subsequent reproduction when the number of reproductions exceeds a certain number, a method of charging for reproduction after exceeding a certain period instead of the number of reproductions, and the like. If the user (viewer) selects CM viewing, a business model that allows free playback is also conceivable.

  As described above, in the transmission / reception system 10 shown in FIG. 1, the content playback device 300 restricts the CM section to be normally played back when the CM section playback restriction (skip / fast forward prohibition) is not released. . In this case, even if a skip / fast-forward request is made by a user operation during normal playback of this CM section, the request is not accepted. Therefore, when reproducing the stored program content, it is possible to appropriately reproduce the CM section included therein.

  In the transmission / reception system 10 shown in FIG. 1, the broadcast transmission system 100 or the program providing server (distribution server) 200 transmits information indicating a CM section included in the program content or information for acquiring this information together with the program content. Therefore, the receiving side can accurately recognize the CM section in the program content and correctly restrict the reproduction operation for the CM section.

<2. Modification>
In the above-described embodiment, an example is shown in which the playback restriction section included in the program content is a CM (advertisement) section. However, in the present technology, the playback restriction section is not limited to the CM section, and similarly includes a section that requires playback restriction. For example, the playback restriction section includes a warning section for warning when viewing program content, a program promotion section for promoting other programs, and a normal playback on the production side even within the main part of the program. You can also consider the section you want to watch.

Moreover, this technique can also take the following structures.
(1) a playback unit that plays back program content including a playback restriction section from the storage unit;
A content playback apparatus comprising a control unit that limits the playback operation of the playback unit so that the playback limit section is normally played back when the playback limit of the playback limit section is not released.
(2) a receiving unit that receives the program content together with information indicating the reproduction restriction section or information for acquiring the information;
The content reproduction device according to (1), further including a storage control unit that stores the received program content in the storage unit.
(3) The content reproduction device according to (2), wherein the reception unit further receives information for releasing restriction of the reproduction restriction section or information for acquiring the information.
(4) The control unit
When the reproduction unit reproduces the program content from the storage unit, the reproduction operation of the reproduction unit is restricted so that the reproduction restriction section is normally reproduced before the reproduction restriction time limit. ) The content reproduction apparatus according to any one of the above.
(5) The control unit
Even before the playback limit time limit, the playback operation of the playback unit is not limited when the playback limit section has already been played normally for a predetermined number of times. Content playback according to (4) apparatus.
(6) The playback restriction section is an advertisement section,
(4) or (5), further comprising: a communication unit that accesses an external advertisement audience rating measurement server and registers audience ratings when the advertisement section of the program content is normally reproduced before the reproduction restriction time limit. The content reproduction apparatus described in 1.
(7) The playback restriction section is an advertising period,
Any one of the above (4) to (6), further comprising a consideration providing unit that gives a viewer a consideration for viewing the advertisement section when the advertisement section of the program content is normally reproduced before the reproduction restriction time limit. A content playback apparatus according to claim 1.
(8)
The content reproduction device according to (7), wherein an external point server is accessed to give points to the viewer.
(9) The playback restriction section is an advertisement section,
When the playback unit plays back the advertising section of the program content, when the normal playback count of the advertising period is equal to or greater than a predetermined number even after the playback limit or before the playback limit, The content reproduction device according to any one of (4) to (8), further including a communication unit that accesses an external advertisement providing server to acquire a replacement advertisement.
(10) The control unit
When the playback unit plays back the program content from the storage unit, the playback limit section is normally played back when the normal playback count of the playback limit section included in the program content is less than a predetermined number. The content playback device according to any one of (1) to (3), wherein the playback operation of the playback unit is limited to the above.
(11) The playback restriction section is an advertisement section,
When the reproduction unit reproduces the advertisement section of the program content, when the normal reproduction number of the advertisement section is equal to or greater than a predetermined number, a communication unit that accesses an external advertisement providing server and acquires a replacement advertisement is provided. The content playback device according to (10), further provided.
(12) The playback restriction section is an advertisement section,
When the reproduction unit reproduces the advertisement section of the program content, communication for accessing a external advertisement providing server and acquiring a replacement advertisement when a certain period has elapsed since accumulation in the accumulation unit The content reproduction apparatus according to (10) or (11).
(13) The playback restriction section is an advertisement section,
The content according to any one of (10) to (12), further including a communication unit that notifies an external server that the advertisement section has been normally played when the advertisement section of the program content is normally played. Playback device.
(14) The control unit
When there is a request for skipping or fast-forwarding by a viewer operation while the playback unit is normally playing back the playback restriction section, when the playback restriction of the playback restriction section is not released,
The content reproduction device according to any one of (1) to (13), wherein the reproduction unit controls the normal reproduction of the reproduction restriction section to be continued.
(15) The control unit
It is determined whether or not the playback restriction of the playback restriction section is released based on information on the number of playbacks of the playback restriction section in which skip or fast forward is unnecessary, or information on a time limit on which skip or fast forward is restricted. 14) The content reproduction device according to 14).
(16) When the playback unit is playing back the playback restriction section and there is a request for skip or fast forward by a viewer operation, if the playback restriction of the playback restriction section has not been released, the request The content reproduction device according to any one of (1) to (15), further including a notification unit that notifies the viewer that the video cannot be supported.
(17) A reproduction step of reproducing program content including the reproduction restriction section from the storage unit by the reproduction unit;
A content reproduction method comprising a control step of restricting the reproduction operation of the reproduction step so that the reproduction restriction section is normally reproduced when the reproduction restriction of the reproduction restriction section is not released.
(18) a program content acquisition unit that acquires program content including a playback restriction section;
A content transmission apparatus comprising: a transmission unit that transmits the program content together with information indicating the reproduction restriction section or information for acquiring the information.
(19) The transmission unit
The content transmission device according to (18), further transmitting information for releasing the restriction of the reproduction restriction section or information for acquiring the information.
(20) a program content acquisition step of acquiring program content including a playback restriction section;
A content transmission method comprising: a transmission step of transmitting the program content together with information indicating the reproduction restriction section or information for acquiring the information by a transmission unit.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 ... Transmission / reception system 100 ... Broadcast transmission system 200 ... Program provision server 300 ... Content reproduction apparatus 301 ... Control part 302 ... Memory | storage part 303 ... Digital tuner 304 ... Communication 305 ... Accumulation unit 306 ... Output unit 307 ... User operation unit 308 ... Display unit 400 ... Communication network 510 ... Television receiver 520 ... Mobile terminal 610 ... Content Usage control server 620 ... advertisement audience rating measurement server 630 ... point server 640 ... advertisement (CM) providing server 650 ... user information management server 660 ... content usage history management server

Claims (20)

A playback unit for playing program content including a playback restriction section from the storage unit;
A content playback apparatus comprising a control unit that limits the playback operation of the playback unit so that the playback limit section is normally played back when the playback limit of the playback limit section is not released. A receiving unit for receiving the program content together with information indicating the reproduction restriction section or information for acquiring the information;
The content reproduction apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a storage control unit that stores the received program content in the storage unit. The content reproduction apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the reception unit further receives information for releasing restriction of the reproduction restriction section or information for acquiring the information. The control unit
The content according to claim 1, wherein when the reproduction unit reproduces the program content from the storage unit, the reproduction operation of the reproduction unit is limited so that the reproduction restriction section is normally reproduced before a reproduction restriction time limit. Playback device. The control unit
5. The content playback apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the playback operation of the playback unit is not limited when the playback limit section has already been played normally for a predetermined number of times even before the playback limit time limit. . The playback restriction section is an advertising section,
The content reproduction according to claim 4, further comprising a communication unit that accesses an external advertisement audience rating measurement server and registers an audience rating when the advertisement section of the program content is normally reproduced before the reproduction restriction time limit. apparatus. The playback restriction section is the advertising period,
The content reproduction apparatus according to claim 4, further comprising: a consideration providing unit that provides a viewer with consideration for viewing the advertisement section when the advertisement section of the program content is normally reproduced before the reproduction restriction time limit. The consideration granting unit
The content reproduction device according to claim 7, wherein an external point server is accessed to give points to the viewer. The playback restriction section is an advertising section,
When the playback unit plays back the advertising section of the program content, when the normal playback count of the advertising period is equal to or greater than a predetermined number even after the playback limit or before the playback limit, The content reproduction apparatus according to claim 4, further comprising a communication unit that accesses an external advertisement providing server to acquire a replacement advertisement. The control unit
When the playback unit plays back the program content from the storage unit, the playback limit section is normally played back when the normal playback count of the playback limit section included in the program content is less than a predetermined number. The content reproduction apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the reproduction operation of the reproduction unit is limited to the above. The playback restriction section is an advertising section,
When the reproduction unit reproduces the advertisement section of the program content, when the normal reproduction number of the advertisement section is equal to or greater than a predetermined number, a communication unit that accesses an external advertisement providing server and acquires a replacement advertisement is provided. The content playback apparatus according to claim 10, further comprising: The playback restriction section is an advertising section,
When the reproduction unit reproduces the advertisement section of the program content, communication for accessing a external advertisement providing server and acquiring a replacement advertisement when a certain period has elapsed since accumulation in the accumulation unit The content reproduction apparatus according to claim 10, further comprising a unit. The playback restriction section is an advertising section,
The content playback apparatus according to claim 10, further comprising a communication unit that notifies an external server that the advertisement section is normally played when the advertisement section of the program content is normally played. The control unit
When there is a request for skipping or fast-forwarding by a viewer operation while the playback unit is normally playing back the playback restriction section, when the playback restriction of the playback restriction section is not released,
The content reproduction apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the reproduction unit controls to continue normal reproduction in the reproduction restriction section. The control unit
The determination as to whether or not the playback restriction of the playback restriction section has been canceled is made based on the number of playback times of the playback restriction section where skip or fast forward is unnecessary, or information on a time limit during which skip or fast forward is restricted. 14. The content reproduction apparatus according to 14. When the playback unit is playing back the playback restriction section and there is a request for skip or fast forward by a viewer operation, if the playback restriction of the playback restriction section is not released, the request cannot be satisfied. The content reproduction apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a notification unit that notifies the viewer of the fact. A reproduction step of reproducing program content including a reproduction restriction section from the accumulation unit by the reproduction unit;
A content reproduction method comprising a control step of restricting the reproduction operation of the reproduction step so that the reproduction restriction section is normally reproduced when the reproduction restriction of the reproduction restriction section is not released. A program content acquisition unit for acquiring program content including a playback restriction section;
A content transmission apparatus comprising: a transmission unit that transmits the program content together with information indicating the reproduction restriction section or information for acquiring the information. The transmitter is
The content transmission device according to claim 18, further transmitting information for releasing the restriction of the reproduction restriction section or information for acquiring the information. A program content acquisition step of acquiring program content including a playback restriction section;
A content transmission method comprising: a transmission step of transmitting the program content together with information indicating the reproduction restriction section or information for acquiring the information by a transmission unit.

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