JP2020126687A - Content distribution device, content distribution system, content distribution method, and program - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide a content distribution device that can distribute contents with the same attribute to a content display device without setting the attribute in advance.SOLUTION: A content distribution device (20) creates a group of contents to be transmitted to a content display device (10) that can continuously display contents with the same attribute. When newly adding a first content to the group, the content distribution device determines the attribute of the first content as the attribute of the group. When adding a second content to the group, if the attribute of the second content matches the attribute of the group, the content distribution device adds the second content to the group. The content distribution device transmits the contents included in the group to the content display device (10).SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

The present invention relates to a content distribution device or the like connectable to a content display device capable of continuously displaying contents having the same attribute.

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, there has been known a digital signage system that uses a display device to display and reproduce still image and moving image content. In a digital signage system, a large display device called an information display is used as a content display device for displaying/reproducing content. Many content display devices are installed in places where people gather, such as stores, shopping malls, public facilities, and public institutions.

In a digital signage system, content is distributed from a content distribution device to a content display device. Specifically, the content distribution device generates a list (group) of content files, and distributes the content files included in the list to the content display device via the network. The content display device continuously displays the content file (content).

The content display device can display contents having the same attribute, but does not support displaying contents having different attributes. For example, when content (image content) whose attribute is an image (still image) and content whose attribute is a moving image (video content) are mixed in the list, the content display device determines the attribute of those contents. It is difficult to deal with such problems. Therefore, the content distribution device generates a list (group) of content files having the same attribute, and distributes the content files included in the list to the content display device via the network.

A technique for managing files having the same attribute is described in Patent Document 1. In the technique described in Patent Document 1, if the attribute of the file to be registered in the folder does not match the attribute of the folder, a warning that the file cannot be registered in the folder is displayed.

JP 2001-197244 A

In the technique described in Patent Document 1, it is necessary to set the attribute of the folder in advance. On the other hand, in the digital signage system, the content displayed by the content display device is changed every installation location of the content display device or every time. Therefore, in the digital signage system, if the attributes of the list are set in advance, for example, a content display device for displaying image content is installed at the same installation location, and a content display device for displaying moving image content, Will have to be placed.

Further, in the digital signage system, preparing both the content display device for image content and the content display device for moving image content increases the number of content display devices and complicates management.

In order to solve such a problem, the present invention is to provide a content distribution device and the like that can distribute content having the same attribute to a content display device without setting the attribute in advance.

The content distribution device of the present invention is, in a content distribution device connectable to a content display device capable of continuously displaying contents having the same attribute, a generation means for generating a group of contents to be transmitted to the content display device, and the group. Attribute determining means for determining an attribute of the first content as an attribute of the group when newly adding the first content to the group; and a second content when adding the second content to the group. When the attribute of the content matches the attribute of the group, adding means for adding the second content to the group, and transmitting means for transmitting the content included in the group to the content display device are provided. It is characterized by having.

A content distribution system of the present invention comprises a content display device capable of continuously displaying contents having the same attribute, and a content distribution device connectable to the content display device, wherein the content distribution device is the content display device. Generating means for generating a group of contents to be transmitted; attribute determining means for determining an attribute of the first content as an attribute of the group when the first content is newly added to the group; An addition unit for adding the second content to the group, when the attribute of the second content matches the attribute of the group when adding the second content to the group; Transmitting content for transmitting the content to the content display device.

A program of the present invention is a program executed by a computer connectable to a content display device capable of continuously displaying contents having the same attribute, and generating a group of contents to be transmitted to the content display device, Determining the attribute of the first content as the attribute of the group when newly adding the first content to the group; and adding the second content to the group when adding the second content to the group. When the attribute of the content matches the attribute of the group, the step of adding the second content to the group and the step of transmitting the content included in the group to the content display device are executed. It is characterized by

As described above, in the present invention, the attribute of the newly added first content is determined as the attribute of the group. Therefore, when adding the second content to the group, if the attribute of the second content matches the attribute of the group, the second content is added to the group. Therefore, the content having the same attribute can be distributed to the content display device without presetting the attribute of the group.

It is a figure for demonstrating the whole structure in 1st Embodiment. It is a figure for demonstrating the whole structure in 1st Embodiment. It is a figure for explaining the composition of the content display device in a 1st embodiment. It is a figure for demonstrating the structure of the content delivery apparatus in 1st Embodiment. It is a figure for explaining the list of the content files in the first embodiment. 6 is an operation flow for explaining a content display process in the first embodiment. 6 is an operational flow for explaining a content distribution process in the first embodiment. 6 is an operation flow for explaining a content file addition process in the first embodiment. It is a figure for demonstrating the operation screen in 1st Embodiment. It is a figure for demonstrating the operation screen in 1st Embodiment. It is a figure for demonstrating the operation screen in 1st Embodiment. It is a figure for demonstrating the operation screen in 1st Embodiment. It is a figure for demonstrating the operation screen in 1st Embodiment. It is a figure for demonstrating the operation screen in 1st Embodiment. It is a figure for demonstrating the operation screen in 1st Embodiment. 9 is an operation flow for explaining a content file addition process in the second embodiment. It is a figure for demonstrating the operation screen in 2nd Embodiment. 9 is an operation flow for explaining a content file addition process in the third embodiment. 9 is an operation flow for explaining a content file addition process in the third embodiment. It is a figure for demonstrating the operation screen in 3rd Embodiment. It is an operation|movement flow for demonstrating the content file addition process in 4th Embodiment. It is a figure for demonstrating the operation screen in 4th Embodiment.

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the drawings. In the following description, a content distribution system including the content distribution device and the content display device of the present invention will be described as an example. The present embodiment is an example for explaining the present invention, and it goes without saying that the present invention is not limited to the contents of the embodiment.

[1. First Embodiment]
First, the first embodiment will be described. The first embodiment is an example of transmitting/delivering content to a predetermined content display device.

[1.1 Overall configuration]
First, the overall configuration will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2. FIG. 1 is a diagram for explaining the outline of the content display device. The content display device 10 is configured by providing, for example, a large display. For example, it is a display device using a liquid crystal display as a display device. Such displays are called information displays, and are often installed in places where people gather, such as shops, shopping malls, public facilities, and public institutions.

The content display device 10 is provided with a USB (Universal Serial Bus) interface as an external IF (interface), for example. Various peripheral devices can be connected to the USB interface, and an external storage device is connected in this embodiment. As the external storage device, for example, a USB memory, an external HDD, an SSD, a memory card or the like can be used. In FIG. 1, the USB memory 15 is shown as attachable.

As the external IF, for example, in the case of an SD card, a card slot may be provided. That is, the interface corresponding to the connected peripheral device is provided. The IF in this embodiment is an interface to which at least an external storage device can be connected.

FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the entire content distribution system 1 including the content display device 10 and the content distribution device 20. The content display device 10 includes one or a plurality of devices. For example, in FIG. 2, as the plurality of content display devices 10, content display devices 10a, 10b, and 10c are connected to the content distribution device 20 via the network NW. A plurality of USB memories 15 are attached to the plurality of content display devices 10, respectively. For example, a USB memory 15a is connected to the content display device 10a, a USB memory 15b is connected to the content display device 10b, and a USB memory 15c is connected to the content display device 10c.

The content distribution device 20 is composed of a computer server. It is realized by executing a content distribution program (content distribution application) on this computer server. At this time, if the content distribution program is executable, for example, it may be realized by a tablet terminal, a smartphone, or the like.

[1.2 Functional configuration]
Next, the functional configuration of each device will be described with reference to the drawings.

[1.2.1 Content Display Device]
The functional configuration of the content display device 10 will be described with reference to FIG. As shown in FIG. 3, the content display device 10 includes a control unit 110, a display unit 120, a communication unit 130, a storage unit 140, a content display control unit 150, and a USB connection unit 160.

The control unit 110 is a functional unit for controlling the entire content display device 10. The control unit 110 realizes various functions by reading and executing various programs stored in the storage unit 140, and is configured by, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or the like.

The display unit 120 is a functional unit for displaying content. For example, it is composed of a liquid crystal display, an organic EL display, or the like. It goes without saying that it may be a projection device such as a projector or may be displayed on an external display device using HDMI (registered trademark).

The communication unit 130 is a functional unit for the content display device 10 to communicate with the content distribution device 20. For example, it is realized by a NIC (Network Interface Card) used in a wired/wireless LAN or a communication module connectable to a 3G/LTE line. Alternatively, short-distance wireless communication such as Bluetooth (registered trademark) or ZigBee may be used.

The storage unit 140 is a functional unit in which various programs necessary for the operation of the content display device 10 and various data are stored. The storage unit 140 is composed of, for example, a semiconductor memory, an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), or the like.

The content display control unit 150 is a functional unit that controls the display of content on the display unit 120. For example, it is a functional unit that performs control of sequentially displaying contents (for example, performs display control of displaying a slide show of image data that is a still image or continuously reproducing moving image data).

Specifically, the content display control unit 150 sequentially displays the content by executing a program called a media player. This accesses the USB memory 300 and determines whether or not a content file is stored in a specific folder (“AutoPlay folder”) of the USB memory 300.

Then, if the content file is stored in the “AutoPlay folder”, the content file is automatically read out and the content is displayed. At this time, the file numbers are read and displayed in order.

The folder may have a different name, or the folder does not have to be specified. For example, when a content file is stored in the USB memory 300, it may be automatically displayed.

The USB connection unit 160 is a functional unit for connecting to a USB device. For example, it is composed of a USB 2.0/3.0/3.1 interface. In the present embodiment, a USB device will be described as an example, but any interface that can be connected as an external device may be used. For example, bus standards such as RS-232C, IEEE 1394, Lightning, Thunderbolt, and SCSI may be used.

The USB memory 300 is connected as an external storage device via the USB connection unit 160. The USB memory mentioned here corresponds to the USB memory 15 shown in FIG. In the present embodiment, a USB memory is described as an example of the external storage device, but various storage devices such as an external HDD and SSD may be used. Further, it may be a recording medium such as an SD card or a CF card via a card reader.

A content file storage area 310 is secured in the USB memory 300, and content files are stored therein. Here, the content file in the present embodiment is content that can be displayed on the display unit 120. For example, it refers to image files (still image data) such as JPG, GIF, PNG, and moving image files (moving image data) such as WMV, MPG, and AVI. A text file such as PDF or HTML, a document file or the like may be available.

[1.2.2 Content distribution device]
Next, the functional configuration of the content distribution device 20 will be described with reference to FIG. The content distribution device 20 includes a control unit 210, a display unit 220, a communication unit 230, and a storage unit 240.

The control unit 210 is a functional unit for controlling the entire content distribution device 20. The control unit 210 realizes various functions by reading out and executing various programs stored in the storage unit 240, and is configured by, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or the like.

The display unit 220 is a functional unit for displaying various operation screen contents by the content distribution function. For example, it is composed of a liquid crystal display, an organic EL display, or the like. It goes without saying that it may be a projection device such as a projector or may be displayed on an external display device using HDMI (registered trademark).

The communication unit 230 is a functional unit for the content distribution device 20 to communicate with the content display device 10. For example, it is realized by a NIC used in a wired/wireless LAN or a communication module connectable to a 3G/LTE line. Alternatively, short-range wireless communication such as Bluetooth or ZigBee may be used.

The storage unit 240 is a functional unit in which various programs necessary for the operation of the content distribution device 20 and various data are stored. The storage unit 240 is composed of, for example, a semiconductor memory, an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), or the like.

A content file storage area 242 is secured in the storage unit 240 and stores a content distribution program 244.

The content file storage area 242 is an area in which one or a plurality of content files are stored for each list. Among the stored content files, the content file selected by the user is transmitted/delivered to the content display device 10.

The content distribution program 244 is read by the control unit 210 and executed to realize a content distribution function. The content distribution program 244 is not limited to the content distribution device 20, and can be executed by any information processing device such as a general computer or a tablet terminal.

[1.2.3 Content file]
Next, the content files stored in the content file storage area 242 for each list will be described with reference to FIG.

In the content file storage area 242, the name (list name) of the list of content files, the attributes of the list, and one or a plurality of content files included in the list are stored in association with each other. The attribute of the list indicates that one or more content files included in the list are “image content” or “moving image content”.

For example, in the content file storage area 242, a list name “photo1”, a list attribute “image content”, and a plurality of content files “01 tky.jpg” and “02 nara.jpg” are stored in association with each other. ing. Further, in the content file storage area 242, a list name “movie1”, a list attribute “moving image content”, and a content file “01 ykhhm.wmv” are stored in association with each other.

A plurality of content files “01 tky.jpg” and “02 nara.jpg” with a list name “photo1” or a content file “01 ykhm.wmv” with a list name “movie1” have the same attribute of the content distribution device 20. When a content (content file) is displayed on the content display device 10, it is distributed (see content distribution processing described later).

Further, the content file storage area 242 stores a list name “newlist”. The list name “newlist” indicates that the name of the list has not been decided yet. Further, in the content file storage area 242, the attribute of the list and the content file are not stored in association with the list name “newlist”. That is, it indicates that the list attribute is not set and the content file is not registered.

The attribute of the list name "newlist" is set based on the first content file (new content file). When the attribute of the first content file (new content file) is “image content”, the attribute of the list name “newlist” is also set to “image content”. On the other hand, when the attribute of the first content file is “video content”, the attribute of the list name “newlist” is also set to “video content”. The list names (“photo1”, “movie1”, and “newlist”) can be set to desired names at the time of creating the list or at a desired timing of the user after creation.

Here, in the present embodiment, a group including one or a plurality of content files is used as a list, but the list is not limited to this. For example, a folder may be used as long as it is a group including one or a plurality of content files.

[1.3 Process flow]
Next, the flow of processing in this embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings.

[1.3.1 Content Display Processing]
Content display processing executed when content is displayed on the content display device 10 will be described with reference to the operation flow of FIG. 6.

First, when the power supply is in the standby mode (power supply standby state) (step S102), it waits until an operation to turn on the power supply is detected (step S104-No). On the other hand, when the power supply is in the standby mode (power supply standby state) (step S102) and the operation to turn on the power supply is detected (step S104-Yes), the power supply state is changed to "ON". (Step S106).

Here, there are three states of the power supply of the content display device 10, that is, a “power standby state (standby mode)”, a “signal standby state”, and an “ON (power source ON) state”. First, the “power standby state” is a state before the power is turned on. In the “signal waiting state”, the power is ON, but when displaying based on an external signal such as HDMI mode or DVI mode, no signal is input from the outside or the USB memory 300 (external In this state, the storage device) is not connected. The “ON state” is a state in which the power is turned on, a signal is input, and content data is read from the USB memory 300 (external storage device).

Further, when the power state is ON, the content display device 10 has a plurality of display modes. This can be switched according to an external input, and for example, the mode can be switched according to an input of HDMI, DVI, D-SUB, composite, or the like. Further, the “USB mode” for reading content data from the USB memory 300 (external storage device) can be selected.

When the “USB mode” is selected, it is confirmed whether or not the “AutoPlay folder” exists in the USB memory 300 (external storage device). Then, when the “AutoPlay folder” exists, the content files included in the “AutoPlay folder” are continuously displayed.

Explaining in a specific flow, first, in a case other than the USB mode, the operation according to the selected mode is executed (step S108-No). In the present embodiment, description of the processing in other operation modes is omitted.

Here, when the USB mode is selected (step S108-Yes), it is determined whether or not the AutoPlay folder exists (step S110).

That is, when the USB memory 300 is connected to the USB connection unit 160 and an AutoPlay folder exists in the USB memory 300 (step S110-Yes), content display processing is executed (step S112).

The content display process is a process of sequentially displaying the content based on the content file stored in the “AutoPlay folder” by the media player stored in the content display device 10. For example, when the file numbers are stored as serial numbers (01, 02,...), the files can be displayed and played in the order of the file numbers.

The media player has a function of displaying image contents/document contents and reproducing moving image contents based on the stored contents.

Further, at this time, the content to be displayed may be switched and displayed every predetermined time, or may be displayed at every time set by the user. In addition, each file may be given an attribute and sequentially displayed.

Here, if it is not possible to switch to the other mode (step S114-No) and the power OFF operation is not performed (step S116-No), step S108 and the subsequent steps are executed, and the content is repeatedly displayed. .. When the power is turned off, the power standby state is entered in this embodiment.

On the other hand, when the mode is switched to the other mode (step S114-Yes), the operation is performed in the mode corresponding to the mode. In addition, if the mode is not switched to another mode (step S114-No) and the power OFF operation is performed (step S116-Yes), this processing ends and the power is turned off.

[1.3.2 Content Delivery Processing]
Content distribution processing executed by the content distribution apparatus 20 will be described with reference to FIG. 7.

First, the content distribution device 20 logs in to the content display device 10 (step S152). As an example, a telnet connection is used for command transmission, and an ftp connection is used for content file transmission. Hereinafter, when acquiring the state of the content display device 10, a command is transmitted and acquired via telnet, but it goes without saying that another protocol may be used. For example, SSH may be used instead of telnet, or sftp/scp may be used instead of ftp.

Then, the power supply state of the content display device 10 is acquired (step S154). This is a process that is confirmed because the content display device 10 does not perform a process of storing/updating a file when the content display device 10 is already accessing the USB memory 300.

When the acquired power supply state is not the “power supply standby state” (step S156-No) and the current input mode is the USB mode (step S158, step S160-Yes), the power supply is set to the power supply standby state (standby mode). Change (step S162). As a result, it is possible to expect an effect that the screen being rewritten is not displayed to the user and an effect that the file can be written safely.

It should be noted that in the present embodiment, this is realized by setting the "power supply standby state", but other methods are also conceivable. For example, the process of disconnecting the USB driver and hiding the screen may be executed.

On the other hand, when the current power supply state is the "power supply standby state" (step S156-Yes), the process of setting the power supply to the standby (power supply standby state) is not performed. When the acquired power state is not the "power standby state" (step S156-No) and the current input mode is other than the USB mode (step S158, step S160-No), the power is on standby (power standby state). ) Is not performed.

This is because the system does not access the USB memory 300 and thus does not enter the standby state in the power standby state. This is also for displaying the content as it is when the content is already displayed in another mode (for example, the externally input content is displayed in the HDMI mode).

Even in such a case, the power supply standby state may be set. For example, the power may be put in a standby state by giving priority to safety such as preventing the file system from being damaged.

Then, if there is no "AutoPlay folder" in the USB memory 300 (step S164-No), an "AutoPlay folder" is created (step S166). On the other hand, if the "AutoPlay folder" already exists in the USB memory 300 (step S164-Yes), the file in the "AutoPlay folder" is deleted (step S168).

In the present embodiment, the file in the “AutoPlay folder” has been described as being deleted once, but the current content file may be left as it is and an additional mode for additional writing may be provided. When the addition mode is selected, step S168 is not executed.

Alternatively, a process of uniformly creating a new folder (deleting the current folder) may be performed.

Then, the content file is transmitted (step S170). Here, when the transmission of the content file is completed, the reset process of the media player is executed (step S172).

Here, the reset process of the media player is executed, for example, by turning on/off the power of the content display device 10. Specifically, when the power of the content display device 10 is once turned off and then turned on again (reset operation), the media player is reset, and the content data stored in the “AutoPlay folder” is rewritten. Execute the processing to be displayed.

Note that the content distribution device 20 may perform the login process again because the login state performed in step S152 is canceled. For example, it is possible to determine that the reset process of the media player is completed when the login process is executed every predetermined time and the login is possible.

Then, after the logout process (step S174), by controlling the input mode to switch to the USB mode (step S176), the content data transmitted in step S170 is displayed/reproduced by the media player.

[1.3.3 Content file addition process]
The content file addition process executed by the content distribution device 20 will be described with reference to FIG.

First, the content distribution device 20 selects a list of content files stored in the content file storage area 242 of the storage unit 240 (step S202). At this time, the attributes of the list are acquired (step S204).

When the content file is not added to the list (No in step S206), the content distribution device 20 executes another process. Other processing includes changing the file name of the content file.

On the other hand, when a content file is newly added to the list (step S206-Yes), the content distribution device 20 acquires the attribute "image content" or "video content" of the new content file (step S208). ..

Here, the attribute of the list is "unset" (step S210-Yes). That is, in step S202, if the list name “newlist” is selected as the list from the content file storage area 242 of the storage unit 240, the attribute of the list stored in the content file storage area 242 is “unset”. is there. In this case, the content distribution apparatus 20 sets (determines) the attribute “image content” or “video content” of the new content file as the attribute of the list (step S212).

The content distribution device 20 adds a new content file to the list (step S214). In this case, the content file storage area 242 of the storage unit 240 stores the list attribute “image content” or “video content” and a new content file in association with the list name “newlist”. ..

On the other hand, the attribute of the list is not "unset" (step S210-No). That is, when the list name “photo1” or “movie1” is selected as the list from the content file storage area 242 of the storage unit 240 in step S202, the attributes of the list stored in the content file storage area 242 are: It is “image content” or “moving image content”. In this case, the content distribution apparatus 20 confirms whether the attribute “image content” or “video content” in the list matches the attribute of the new content file (step S216).

Here, when the attribute “image content” or “video content” in the list matches the attribute of the new content file (step S216-Yes), the content distribution apparatus 20 sets the new content file in the list. Add (step S214). In this case, in the content file storage area 242 of the storage unit 240, a new content file is associated with the list name “photo1” or “movie1” as a list and the attribute “image content” or “video content” of the list. Is memorized.

On the other hand, if the attribute "image content" or "video content" in the list does not match the attribute of the new content file (step S216-No), the content distribution device 20 adds the new content file to the list. Is rejected and a message to that effect is displayed on the display unit 220 (step S218).

[1.4 Operation example]
Next, a specific operation example (screen example) will be described with reference to the drawings.

[1.4.1 Operation example 1]
First, the operation when the content distribution device 20 executes the content file addition process will be described with reference to FIGS.

FIG. 9 is an example of a display screen W100 displayed on the display unit 220 in the content distribution device 20. The display screen W100 is displayed on the display unit 220 by performing step S202 of the content file addition process. That is, when the list name “newlist” is selected as the list, the display screen W100 is displayed on the display unit 220.

The display screen W100 includes an operation button area, an area R100, an area R102, and an area R104.

A plurality of operation buttons are displayed in the operation button area. For example, in the operation button area, a distribution button B100 for actually distributing the content file to the content display device 10, an add button B102 for adding the content file to the list, and a content file for deleting from the list. And a delete button B104 for displaying.

A list of content file lists is displayed in the region R100. Specifically, in the area R100, the list attribute and the list name are displayed side by side. By identifying and displaying the attributes of the list (for example, the list of moving image content and the list of still image content), the user can intuitively identify what content the list includes. .. For example, a list attribute “image content” and a list name “photo1” are displayed side by side. Further, the list attribute “moving image content” and the list name “movie1” are displayed side by side. Further, the list attribute “unset” and the list name “newlist” are displayed side by side. The list attribute “unset” is an identification display indicating that the list attribute is not determined.

In the region R102, the list name “newlist” of the list selected from the list of lists displayed in the region R100 is displayed. The selected list (list attribute “not set”, list name “newlist”) has only to be identified by the user. For example, the list selected from the list displayed in the region R100. May be displayed in an identifying manner (for example, reverse display).

A message indicating that “image content” or “video content” can be added to the selected list is displayed in the region R104.

FIG. 10 is an example of a display screen W110 displayed on the display unit 220 in the content distribution device 20. The display screen W110 is displayed on the display unit 220 by executing steps S202, S204, S206-Yes, S208, S210-Yes, S212, and S214 of the content file addition process. That is, when the new content file “01 pc.jpg” whose attribute is “image content” is added to the list (list name “newlist”), the display screen W110 is displayed on the display unit 220.

In the area R104, a content file (new content file) scheduled to be added to the list (list name “newlist”) is displayed. For example, the new content file is displayed when the add button B102 is operated. Alternatively, the new content file is displayed by dragging and dropping from another display screen.

The new content file displayed in the region R104 is displayed in a tile shape. As a new content file, for example, content C110, order C112, and file name C114 are displayed in region R104. The content C110 represents the content of the content file (for example, an image of a personal computer). The file name C114 represents the file name “pc.jpg” of the content C110. The order C112 represents the order “01” in the selected list (list name “newlist”). The order C112 enables the user to recognize that the content C110 is displayed and reproduced first. The display of the content files may be, for example, a list display that is not tiled.

When a new content file “01 pc.jpg” is displayed in the region R104, the list attribute “image content” is associated with the list name “newlist” as a list in the content file storage region 242 of the storage unit 240. And a new content file “01 pc.jpg” are stored. In this case, the attributes of the list displayed alongside the list name “newlist” in the region R100 are changed from the identification display “not set” indicating that the attributes of the list are not determined to “image content”. Further, the attributes of the list displayed in the region R102 are changed from the identification display “not set” indicating that the attributes of the list are not determined to “image content”.

FIG. 11 is an example of a display screen W120 displayed on the display unit 220 in the content distribution device 20. The display screen W120 is displayed on the display unit 220 by executing steps S202, S204, S206-Yes, S208, S210-No, S216-Yes, and S214 of the content file addition process. That is, when a new content file “02 sm.jpg” whose attribute is “image content” is added to the list (list name “newlist”), the display screen W120 is displayed on the display unit 220.

In the region R104, the content file “01 pc.jpg” included in the list (list name “newlist”) and the content file to be added to the list (new content file) are displayed. For example, the new content file is displayed when the add button B102 is operated. Alternatively, the new content file is displayed by dragging and dropping from another display screen.

The new content file displayed in the region R104 is displayed in a tile shape. As a new content file, for example, content C120, order C122, and file name C124 are displayed in region R104. The content C120 represents the content of the content file (for example, an image of a shopping cart). The file name C124 represents the file name “sm.jpg” of the content C120. The order C122 represents the order “02” in the selected list (list name “newlist”). The order C122 enables the user to recognize that the content C120 is displayed and reproduced second.

When a new content file “02 sm.jpg” is displayed in the area R104, the content file storage area 242 of the storage unit 240 is associated with the list name “newlist” as a list and is associated with the attribute “image content” of the list. And a new content file “02 sm.jpg” are stored.

FIG. 12 is an example of a display screen W130 displayed on the display unit 220 in the content distribution device 20. The display screen W130 is displayed on the display unit 220 by executing steps S202, S204, S206-Yes, S208, S210-No, S216-No, and S218 of the content file addition process. That is, when an attempt is made to add a new content file whose attribute is "video content" to the list (list name "newlist"), addition of the new content file to the list (list name "newlist") is rejected. In this case, the display screen W130 is displayed on the display unit 220.

The display screen W130 is displayed on the display screen W120. The display screen W130 includes a region R130 and a region R132.

In the region R130, a message indicating that it is an error to add a new content file whose attribute is “video content” to the list (list name “newlist”) is displayed.

In the region R132, a message indicating that “image content” and “moving image content” cannot be mixed in the list (list name “newlist”) is displayed. An operation button B130 for closing the display screen W130 is displayed in the region R132.

In a general digital signage system, the content displayed by the content display device is changed every installation location or time of the content display device. Therefore, in the digital signage system, if the attributes of the list are set in advance, for example, a content display device for displaying image content is installed at the same installation location, and a content display device for displaying moving image content, Will have to be placed. Therefore, in the digital signage system (content distribution system 1) according to the present embodiment, the attribute “image content” of the newly added content file “01 pc.jpg” is determined as the attribute of the list (list name “newlist”). ing. In this case, when the content file “02 sm.jpg” is added to the list (list name “newlist”), the attribute of the content file “02 sm.jpg” matches the attribute of the list (list name “newlist”). Therefore, the content file “02 sm.jpg” is added to the list (list name “newlist”). Therefore, it is possible to deliver the content having the same attribute to the content display device 10 without setting the attribute of the list (list name “newlist”) in advance.

[1.4.2 Operation example 2]
First, the operation when the content distribution device 20 executes the content distribution process will be described with reference to FIG.

FIG. 13 is an example of a display screen W140 displayed on the display unit 220 in the content distribution device 20. The display screen W140 is displayed on the display unit 220 by performing step S170 of the content distribution process. That is, the display screen W140 is displayed when the distribution button B100 is operated.

The display screen W140 is displayed on the display screen W120. The display screen W140 includes a region R140 and a region R142.

In the area R140, a message indicating that the list name “newlist” is selected as the list for distributing the content file to the content display device 10 is displayed.

A region R142 represents a place where the content display device 10 is installed. For example, as the place where the content display device 10 is installed, the entrance of the store or the shopping mall on the first floor is shown. An operation button B140 for delivering the content file to the content display device 10 and an operation button B142 for closing the display screen W140 without delivering the content file to the content display device 10 are displayed in the region R142. Has been done.

Here, the user selects the location where the content display device 10 is installed and operates the operation button B140, whereby the content files "01 pc.jpg" and "02" included in the list name "newlist" are selected. sm.jpg” is transmitted to the selected content display device 10. In this case, the content files “01 pc.jpg” and “02 sm.jpg” are stored in the external storage device (USB memory 300) connected to the content display device 10. Therefore, the user does not need to insert and remove the USB memory 300 to copy the content file, and can appropriately manage the content file.

[1.4.3 Operation example 3]
First, another operation when the content distribution device 20 executes the content file addition process will be described with reference to FIGS.

FIG. 14 is an example of a display screen W150 displayed on the display unit 220 in the content distribution device 20. The display screen W150 is displayed on the display unit 220 by executing steps S202, S204, S206-Yes, S208, S210-Yes, S212, and S214 of the content file addition process. That is, when the new content file “01 ykhm.wmv” whose attribute is “moving image content” is added to the list (list name “newlist”), the display screen W150 is displayed on the display unit 220.

In the region R104, a content file (new content file) scheduled to be added to the list (list name “newlist”) is displayed. For example, the new content file is displayed when the add button B102 is operated. Alternatively, the new content file is displayed by dragging and dropping from another display screen.

The new content file displayed in the region R104 is displayed in a tile shape. As a new content file, for example, content C150, order C152, and file name C154 are displayed in region R104. The content C150 represents the content of the content file (for example, a cityscape video). The file name C154 represents the file name “ykhm.wmv” of the content C150. The order C152 represents the order “01” in the selected list (list name “newlist”). The order C152 allows the user to recognize that the content C150 is displayed and reproduced first. The display of the content files may be, for example, a list display that is not tiled.

When a new content file “01 ykhm.wmv” is displayed in the area R104, the content file storage area 242 of the storage unit 240 is associated with the list name “newlist” as a list and is associated with the attribute “video content” of the list. And a new content file “01 ykhm.wmv” are stored. In this case, the attributes of the list displayed alongside the list name “newlist” in the region R100 are changed from the identification display “not set” indicating that the attributes of the list are not determined to “video content”. Further, the attribute of the list displayed in the region R102 is changed from the identification display “unset” indicating that the attribute of the list is not determined to “video content”.

FIG. 15 is an example of a display screen W160 displayed on the display unit 220 in the content distribution device 20. The display screen W160 is displayed on the display unit 220 by executing steps S202, S204, S206-Yes, S208, S210-No, S216-No, and S218 of the content file addition process. That is, when an attempt is made to add a new content file whose attribute is "image content" to the list (list name "newlist"), addition to the list of new content files (list name "newlist") is rejected. In this case, the display screen W160 is displayed on the display unit 220.

The display screen W160 is displayed on the display screen W150. The display screen W160 includes a region R160 and a region R162.

In the region R160, a message indicating that it is an error to add a new content file whose attribute is “image content” to the list (list name “newlist”) is displayed.

A message indicating that “image content” and “moving image content” cannot be mixed in the list (list name “newlist”) is displayed in the region R162. An operation button B160 for closing the display screen W160 is displayed in the region R162.

In the digital signage system (content distribution system 1) according to the present embodiment, the attribute “video content” of the newly added content file “01 ykhm.wmv” is determined as the attribute of the list (list name “newlist”). .. In this case, when the next content file is added to the list (list name "newlist"), the attributes of the content file do not match the attributes of the list (list name "newlist"), so the list (list name "newlist") The following content files are not added to ). Therefore, it is possible to deliver the content having the same attribute to the content display device 10 without setting the attribute of the list (list name “newlist”) in advance.

[2. Second Embodiment]
Next, the second embodiment will be described. The second embodiment has the same function and configuration as those of the first embodiment, but the processing of the content distribution device 20 is replaced with that of FIGS. 8 to 16. In the present embodiment, the processing will be mainly described. The same processes as those in FIG. 8 of the first embodiment are designated by the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[2.1 Content file addition processing]
The content file addition process executed by the content distribution device 20 will be described with reference to FIG.

First, steps S202, S204, S206-Yes, S208, S210-No, and S216 are executed. If the attribute “image content” or “video content” of the list does not match the attribute of the new content file (step S216-No), the content distribution device 20 creates a new list (step S216-No). S252), and a new content file is added to the list (step S254).

[2.2 Operation Example]
The operation when the content distribution device 20 executes the content file addition process will be described with reference to FIG.

FIG. 17 is an example of a display screen W200 displayed on the display unit 220 in the content distribution device 20. The display screen W200 is displayed on the display unit 220 by executing steps S202, S204, S206-Yes, S208, S210-No, S216-No, S252, and S254 of the content file addition process. That is, when trying to add a new content file whose attribute is "image content" to the list (list name "newlist"), a new list is created and the new content file is added to the list. Display screen W200, the display screen W200 is displayed on the display unit 220.

The display screen W200 includes operation button areas (delivery button B100, add button B102, delete button B104), an area R200, an area R202, and an area R204.

A list of content file lists is displayed in the region R200. For example, a list attribute “image content” and a list name “photo1” are displayed side by side. Further, the list attribute “moving image content” and the list name “movie1” are displayed side by side. Further, the list attribute “moving image content” and the list name “newlist” are displayed side by side. The list name "newlist2" is created when step S252 is executed. In this case, the list name “newlist2” and the list attribute “unset” are stored as a list in the content file storage area 242 of the storage unit 240 in association with each other, and the list attribute “unset” is stored in the area R200. And the list name "newlist2" are displayed side by side.

In the area R202, the list name "newlist2" of the list newly created in the list of the list displayed in the area R200 is displayed. The list name “newlist2” is displayed in the region R202 when step S252 is executed.

In the area R204, the content C210, the order C212, and the file name C214 are displayed. Further, in the area R204, a message indicating that a new list has been created is displayed because contents with different attributes have been added. When a message indicating that a new list has been created is displayed in the area R204, the content file storage area 242 of the storage unit 240 is associated with the list name “newlist2” as a list, and the attribute “image content” of the list is associated with the list. And a new content file “01 yasai.jpg” are stored. In this case, the attributes of the list displayed side by side with the list name “newlist2” in the region R200 are changed from “unset”, which is an identification display indicating that the attributes of the list are not determined, to “image content”. Further, the attribute of the list displayed in the region R202 is changed from the identification display “not set” indicating that the attribute of the list is not determined to “image content”.

In the digital signage system (content distribution system 1) according to the present embodiment, when the content file “yasai.jpg” is added to the list (list name “newlist”), the attribute of the content file “yasai.jpg” is the list ( If the attribute of the list name "newlist" does not match, a new list (list name "newlist2") is generated, and the content file "01 yasai.jpg" is added to the list (list name "newlist2"). Therefore, it is possible to deliver the content having the same attribute to the content display device 10 without setting the attribute of the list (list name “newlist2”) in advance.

[3. Third Embodiment]
Subsequently, a third embodiment will be described. The third embodiment has the same functions and configurations as those of the second embodiment, but the processing of the content distribution device 20 is replaced with that of FIGS. 16 to 18 and 19. In the present embodiment, the processing will be mainly described. The same processes as those in FIG. 16 of the second embodiment are designated by the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

The content file addition process executed by the content distribution device 20 will be described with reference to FIGS.

First, steps S202, S204, S206-Yes, S208, S210-No, and S216 are executed. Here, when the attribute “image content” or “video content” of the list (list name “newlist”) does not match the attribute of the new content file (step S216-No), the content distribution apparatus 20 determines that the new The user is inquired whether or not to convert the attribute "image content" or "moving image content" of the content file (step S302).

FIG. 20 is an example of a display screen W300 displayed on the display unit 220 in the content distribution device 20.

The display screen W300 is displayed on the display screen W150. The display screen W300 includes a region R300.

In the area R300, it is not possible to mix “image content” and “video content” in the list (list name “newlist”). Therefore, it is necessary to inquire the user whether to convert the attribute of the new content file. A message is displayed. An operation button B300 for converting the attribute of the new content file and an operation button B302 for closing the display screen W300 without converting the attribute of the new content file are displayed in the region R300.

Here, when the operation button B302 is operated, that is, when the instruction not to convert the attribute of the new content file is given (step S302-No), the content distribution apparatus 20 causes the content distribution device 20 to list the new content file (list). The addition to the name "newlist") is rejected, and a message indicating that is displayed on the display unit 220 (step S304).

On the other hand, when the operation button B300 is operated, that is, when the instruction to convert the attribute of the new content file is made (step S302-Yes), the content distribution apparatus 20 confirms the attribute of the new content file. (Step S306).

Here, when the attribute of the new content file is "video content" (step S306-No), the content distribution apparatus 20 generates "image content" from "video content" for the new content file, The "image content" is included in the list (list name "newlist") (step S308). The content distribution device 20 adds a new content file to the list (step S312).

On the other hand, when the attribute of the new content file is "image content" (step S306-Yes), the content distribution device 20 includes the new content file in the list (list name "newlist") so that the slide show is performed. Then, "video content" is generated from "image content" (step S310). The content distribution device 20 adds a new content file to the list (step S312).

In the digital signage system (content distribution system 1) according to the present embodiment, when a content file is added to the list (list name “newlist”), the attribute of the content file is the attribute of the list (list name “newlist”). If they do not match, the attribute of the new content file is converted into the attribute of the list (list name “newlist”), and the content file is added to the list (list name “newlist”). Therefore, it is possible to deliver the content having the same attribute to the content display device 10 without setting the attribute of the list (list name “newlist”) in advance.

[4. Fourth Embodiment]
Subsequently, a fourth embodiment will be described. The fourth embodiment has the same functions and configurations as those of the third embodiment, but the processing of the content distribution device 20 is replaced with that of FIG. 19 to FIG. Specifically, in the third embodiment, the attribute of the new content file is converted into the attribute of the list (list name “newlist”), but in the fourth embodiment, the list (list name “newlist”) is converted. Convert the attributes of to the attributes of the new content file. In the present embodiment, the processing will be mainly described.

The content file addition process executed by the content distribution device 20 will be described with reference to FIGS.

First, steps S202, S204, S206-Yes, S208, S210-No, and S216 are executed. Here, when the attribute “image content” or “video content” of the list (list name “newlist”) does not match the attribute of the new content file (step S216-No), the content distribution apparatus 20 determines that the list The user is inquired whether to convert the attribute "image content" or "moving image content" of (list name "newlist") (step S402).

FIG. 22 is an example of a display screen W400 displayed on the display unit 220 in the content distribution device 20.

The display screen W400 is displayed on the display screen W150. The display screen W400 includes a region R400.

In the area R400, the “image content” and the “video content” cannot be mixed in the list (list name “newlist”), so the user is asked whether to convert the attributes of the list (list name “newlist”). A message indicating that you want to contact is displayed. In the region R400, an operation button B400 for converting the attributes of the list (list name “newlist”) and an operation button B402 for closing the display screen W400 without converting the attributes of the list (list name “newlist”). Is displayed.

Here, when the operation button B402 is operated, that is, when an instruction not to convert the attributes of the list (list name "newlist") is made (step S402-No), the content distribution apparatus 20 determines that the new content file To the list (list name “newlist”) is rejected, and a message indicating that is displayed on the display unit 220 (step S404).

On the other hand, when the operation button B400 is operated, that is, when an instruction to convert the attributes of the list (list name “newlist”) is issued (step S402 —Yes), the content distribution apparatus 20 causes the content distribution apparatus 20 to perform the list (list name “list name” The attribute of "newlist") is confirmed (step S406).

Here, when the attribute of the list (list name “newlist”) is “moving image content” (No in step S406), the content distribution apparatus 20 selects the content files included in the list (list name “newlist”). , "Image content" is generated from the "moving image content" (step S408). The content distribution device 20 adds a new content file to the list (step S412).

On the other hand, when the attribute of the list (list name “newlist”) is “image content” (Yes in step S406), the content distribution apparatus 20 sets the content files included in the list (list name “newlist”) to "Movie content" is generated from "image content" so as to be a slide show (step S410). The content distribution device 20 adds a new content file to the list (step S412).

In the digital signage system (content distribution system 1) according to the present embodiment, when a content file is added to the list (list name “newlist”), the attribute of the content file is the attribute of the list (list name “newlist”). If they do not match, the attribute of the list (list name “newlist”) is converted to the attribute of the content file, and the content file is added to the list (list name “newlist”). Therefore, it is possible to deliver the content having the same attribute to the content display device 10 without setting the attribute of the list (list name “newlist”) in advance.

[5. Modification]
The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications can be made. That is, the technical scope of the present invention also includes embodiments obtained by combining technical means that are appropriately changed without departing from the scope of the present invention.

Further, it goes without saying that the above-described embodiments may be appropriately combined and executed in a range without contradiction other than the description.

In addition, the program that operates in each device in the embodiment is a program that controls a CPU or the like (a program that causes a computer to function) so as to realize the functions of the above-described embodiments. Then, the information handled by these devices is temporarily stored in a temporary storage device (for example, RAM) at the time of the processing, then stored in various ROM or HDD storage devices, and read and corrected by the CPU as necessary. -Writing is performed.

Here, as a recording medium for storing the program, a semiconductor medium (for example, a ROM or a non-volatile memory card), an optical recording medium/a magneto-optical recording medium (for example, a DVD (Digital Versatile Disc), an MO (Magneto Optical) Disc), MD (Mini Disc), CD (Compact Disc), BD and the like), magnetic recording medium (for example, magnetic tape, flexible disk and the like), and the like. Further, by executing the loaded program, not only the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized, but also by processing in cooperation with the operating system or other application programs based on the instructions of the program, The function of the invention may be realized in some cases.

Further, in the case of distribution in the market, the program can be stored in a portable recording medium for distribution, or can be transferred to a server computer connected via a network such as the Internet. In this case, it goes without saying that the storage device of the server computer is also included in the present invention.

Further, a part or all of each device in the above-described embodiments may be typically realized as an LSI (Large Scale Integration) which is an integrated circuit. Each functional block of each device may be individually made into a chip, or a part or all of them may be integrated into a chip. Further, the method of circuit integration is not limited to LSI, and may be realized by a dedicated circuit or a general-purpose processor. Further, in the case where a technology for forming an integrated circuit that replaces the LSI appears due to the progress of semiconductor technology, it goes without saying that an integrated circuit according to the technology can be used.

1 Content distribution system 10, 10a, 10b, 10c Content display device 15, 15a, 15b, 15c USB memory 20 Content distribution device 110 Control unit 120 Display unit 130 Communication unit 140 Storage unit 150 Content Display control unit 160... USB connection unit 210... Control unit 220... Display unit 230... Communication unit 240... Storage unit 242... Content file storage area 244... Content distribution program 300... USB memory 310... Content file storage area B100, B102, B104 , B130, B140, B142... Operation buttons B160, B300, B302, B400, B402... Operation buttons C110, C120, C150, C210... Contents C112, C122, C152, C212... Sequence C114, C124, C154, C214... File name R100 , R102, R104, R130, R132, R140, R142... Regions R160, R162, R200, R202, R204, R300, R400... Regions W100, W110, W120, W130, W140... Display screens W150, W160, W200, W300, W400. … Display screen

Claims (8)

In a content distribution device equipped with a control unit connectable to a content display device capable of continuously displaying contents of the same attribute,
The control unit is
Add content to the content list for distribution to the content display device,
When the attribute of the content list is not set, the attribute of the content list is set based on the attribute of the content first added to the content list,
A content distribution apparatus, which distributes the content included in the content list to the content display apparatus. The control unit displays a reception screen for accepting addition of the content,
The reception screen is
A first display area for displaying the attributes of the content list and the content list name;
A second display area for displaying a content list name of a content list selected from the content lists displayed in the first display area;
A third display area for displaying content to be added to the selected content list,
The content distribution apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: The content distribution device according to claim 2, wherein the second display area includes an identification display indicating an attribute of the selected content list. When the content to be added to the content list first is displayed in the third display area, the control unit changes the identification display of the second display area to the identification display indicating the attribute of the content to be added first. The content distribution device according to claim 3, wherein the content distribution device is changed. The control unit is
When an attribute of the content list is set when the content is added to the content list,
When the attribute of the content list and the attribute of the content match, the content is added to the content list,
The content distribution device according to claim 1, wherein a new content list is created when an attribute of the content list does not match an attribute of the content. A content display system including a content display device and a content distribution device,
The content distribution device,
Add content to the content list for distribution to the content display device,
When the attribute of the content list is not set, the attribute of the content list is set based on the attribute of the content first added to the content list,
Distributing the contents included in the contents list to the contents display device,
The content display device,
Receiving content from the content distribution device,
Sequentially display the received contents,
A content display system characterized by the above. A content distribution method in a content distribution device connectable to a content display device capable of continuously displaying contents having the same attribute,
Adding content to a content list for distribution to the content display device;
If the attribute of the content list is not set, setting the attribute of the content list based on the attribute of the content first added to the content list,
Delivering the content included in the content list to the content display device;
A content distribution method comprising: A program for causing a computer to execute each step of the content distribution method according to claim 7.

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