JP2022065343A - Receiving device, viewing history management device, and program - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide a receiving device, a viewing history management device, and a program for reproducing a content corresponding to a viewing history across a plurality of distribution methods.SOLUTION: The receiving device comprises: a content information acquisition unit, a viewing history acquisition unit, a reproduction method determination unit, and a content presentation unit. The content information acquisition unit acquires content information including a plurality of distribution methods for a single content. The viewing history acquisition unit acquires a viewing history of the content. The reproduction method determination unit determines a determination method included in the content information acquired by the content information acquisition unit and a reproduction method based on the viewing history acquired by the viewing history acquisition unit. The content presentation unit represents a received content, by using the distribution method and the reproduction method determined by the reproduction method determination unit.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

The present invention relates to a receiving device, a viewing history management device, and a program.

As a method of distributing content to viewers, there is a technique using a plurality of methods. Here, the plurality of methods are broadcasting and communication. It is also possible to use live broadcasting (live streaming) or video on demand (VOD) properly as a plurality of methods. In the techniques described in Patent Document 1, Patent Document 2, and Patent Document 3, a plurality of methods (distribution methods) as described above are centrally managed for distribution of a single content, and the viewer's receiving device side. The content can be delivered in a way that suits the situation at that time. With such a conventional technique, it is easy for the viewer to use a plurality of methods properly.

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2016-149624 Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2016-149625 Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2016-149626

However, the prior art as described above does not manage the viewing history of the content. Therefore, in the prior art, there is a problem that the viewer cannot view the content according to the viewing history across a plurality of distribution methods.

The present invention has been made based on the above-mentioned problem recognition, and provides a receiving device, a viewing history management device, and a program for enabling playback of content according to a viewing history across a plurality of distribution methods. It is what we are trying to provide.

[1] In order to solve the above problems, the receiving device according to one aspect of the present invention acquires a content information acquisition unit that acquires content information including a plurality of distribution methods for one content, and a viewing history of the content. A playback method determination unit that determines a viewing history acquisition unit, a distribution method included in the content information acquired by the content information acquisition unit, and a reproduction method based on the viewing history acquired by the viewing history acquisition unit. It includes a content presentation unit that presents received content by using the distribution method and the reproduction method determined by the reproduction method determination unit.

[2] Further, one aspect of the present invention further includes, in the above-mentioned receiving device, a state management unit for registering a viewing history based on a situation in which the content presenting unit presents the content in the viewing history management device. The viewing history acquisition unit acquires the viewing history from the viewing history management device.

[3] Further, in one aspect of the present invention, in the above receiving device, the viewing history includes information about the end position of reproduction when the content is reproduced, and the reproduction method determining unit is the reproduction. As at least a part of the method, the start position at the time of new reproduction is determined based on the information of the end position included in the acquired viewing history.

[4] Further, in one aspect of the present invention, in the above-mentioned receiving device, the viewing history further includes information about a reproduction start position when the said content is reproduced, and the reproduction method determining unit determines the reproduction method. Based on the information on the start position and the end position of the reproduction included in the viewing history, the reproduction of the content at a position that has not been viewed yet is presented.

[5] Further, the viewing history management device according to one aspect of the present invention relates to a content ID for identifying the content, a distribution method when the content is viewed, and a playback end position when the content is viewed. A viewing history management database that stores the viewing history including at least the information of the above, and when a request for registration of the viewing history is received from the receiving device, the viewing history is written in the viewing history management database, and the viewing is performed from the receiving device. It is provided with an interface unit for transmitting the viewing history read from the viewing history management database to the receiving device when the request for acquisition of the history is received.

[6] Further, one aspect of the present invention includes a content information acquisition unit that acquires content information including a plurality of distribution methods for one content, a viewing history acquisition unit that acquires the viewing history of the content, and the content. The reproduction method determination unit that determines the distribution method included in the content information acquired by the information acquisition unit and the reproduction method based on the viewing history acquired by the viewing history acquisition unit, and the reproduction method determination unit that determines the reproduction method. It is a program for operating a computer as a receiving device including a content presenting unit that presents received contents by using the distribution method and the reproduction method.

[7] Further, in one aspect of the present invention, at least the content ID for identifying the content, the distribution method when the content is viewed, and the information about the end position of the reproduction when the content is viewed are at least. A viewing history management database that stores the viewing history including the viewing history, and when a request for registration of the viewing history is received from the receiving device, the viewing history is written in the viewing history management database, and a request for acquiring the viewing history from the receiving device. Is a program for operating a computer as a viewing history management device including an interface unit for transmitting the viewing history read from the viewing history management database to the receiving device.

According to the present invention, when a certain content is distributed by a plurality of distribution methods, the viewing history of the content can be centrally managed across the plurality of distribution methods. Further, when the distribution is performed by a certain distribution method, it becomes possible to perform the distribution according to the situation represented by the viewing history managed over a plurality of distribution methods. As an example, when distributing / reproducing content, it is possible to reproduce the reproduction position according to the viewing history.

It is a block diagram which shows the schematic functional structure of the system by 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the schematic functional structure of the distribution apparatus by 1st Embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows the schematic functional structure of the receiving apparatus by 1st Embodiment. It is a schematic diagram which shows the composition of the content acquisition request and the example of the data content which the reproduction method determination part of the receiving apparatus by 1st Embodiment transmits to a distribution apparatus. It is a schematic diagram which shows the structure of the data of the viewing history and the example of the data content which the state management part of the receiving apparatus by 1st Embodiment transmits to the viewing history management apparatus. It is a block diagram which shows the schematic functional structure of the viewing history management apparatus by 1st Embodiment. It is a schematic diagram which shows the structure of the viewing history management database by 1st Embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows the functional structure of the system by 2nd Embodiment. It is a sequence diagram (the 1) which shows the example (processing procedure 1) of the operation procedure of the system by 2nd Embodiment. It is a sequence diagram (No. 2) which shows the example (processing procedure 1) of the operation procedure of the system by 2nd Embodiment. It is a sequence diagram (3) which shows the example (processing procedure 1) of the operation procedure of the system by 2nd Embodiment. It is a schematic diagram which shows the structure and the example of the content information held by the content management part of the distribution apparatus by 2nd Embodiment. It is a schematic diagram (the 1) which shows the example of the viewing history managed by the viewing history management apparatus according to the 2nd Embodiment. FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram (No. 2) showing an example of a viewing history managed by a viewing history management device according to a second embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows the functional structure of the system by 3rd Embodiment. It is a sequence diagram (No. 1) which shows the example (processing procedure 2) of the operation procedure of the system by 3rd Embodiment. It is a sequence diagram (No. 2) which shows the example (processing procedure 2) of the operation procedure of the system by 3rd Embodiment. It is a sequence diagram (No. 3) which shows the example (processing procedure 2) of the operation procedure of the system by 3rd Embodiment. It is a sequence diagram (No. 4) which shows the example (processing procedure 2) of the operation procedure of the system by 3rd Embodiment. It is a schematic diagram which shows the structure and the example of the content information held by the content management part of the distribution apparatus by 3rd Embodiment. It is a schematic diagram (the 1) which shows the example of the viewing history managed by the viewing history management apparatus according to the 3rd Embodiment. FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram (No. 2) showing an example of a viewing history managed by a viewing history management device according to a third embodiment. FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram (No. 3) showing an example of a viewing history managed by a viewing history management device according to a third embodiment. FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram (No. 4) showing an example of a viewing history managed by a viewing history management device according to a third embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows the functional structure of the system by 4th Embodiment. It is a sequence diagram (the 1) which shows the example (processing procedure 3) of the operation procedure of the system by 4th Embodiment. It is a sequence diagram (No. 2) which shows the example (processing procedure 3) of the operation procedure of the system by 4th Embodiment. It is a sequence diagram (No. 3) which shows the example (processing procedure 3) of the operation procedure of the system by 4th Embodiment. It is a sequence diagram (No. 4) which shows the example (processing procedure 3) of the operation procedure of the system by 4th Embodiment. It is a sequence diagram (No. 5) which shows the example (processing procedure 3) of the operation procedure of the system by 4th Embodiment. It is a schematic diagram which shows the structure and the example of the content information held by the content management part of the distribution apparatus by 4th Embodiment. It is a schematic diagram (the 1) which shows the example of the viewing history managed by the viewing history management apparatus according to 4th Embodiment. FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram (No. 2) showing an example of a viewing history managed by a viewing history management device according to a fourth embodiment. FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram (No. 3) showing an example of a viewing history managed by a viewing history management device according to a fourth embodiment. FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram (No. 4) showing an example of a viewing history managed by a viewing history management device according to a fourth embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows the example of the internal structure of the receiving device, the viewing history management device, and the distribution device in each embodiment.

Next, a plurality of embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[First Embodiment]
FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a schematic functional configuration of a system according to the first embodiment. As shown in the figure, the system 10 includes a receiving device 1, a viewing history management device 2, a viewer device 3, a distribution device 7, and a communication network 9. The system 10 presents the content to the viewer (user) by using the viewing history managed by the viewing history management device 2. The content is distributed as a broadcast signal or is distributed via a communication network such as the Internet. The viewing history management device 2 uniformly manages the viewing history of the viewer for the same content distributed by the plurality of distribution methods.

Each of the receiving device 1, the viewing history management device 2, the viewer device 3, and the distribution device 7 can be realized by, for example, a computer and a program. In addition, each device has a storage means, if necessary. The storage means is, for example, a variable on the program or a memory allocated by executing the program. Further, if necessary, a non-volatile storage means such as a magnetic hard disk device or a solid state drive (SSD) may be used. Further, at least a part of the functions of each device may be realized not as a program but as a dedicated electronic circuit.

Each "device" shown in FIG. 1 represents a function constituting the system. A plurality of devices (for example, a receiving device 1 and a viewing history management device 2) shown here may be physically mounted together in one device (housing). In the embodiment described later (after the second embodiment), a case where one physical device (for example, a smartphone) has both the function of the receiving device 1 and the function of the viewing history management device 2 will be described.

The receiving device 1 receives the content and presents it to the viewer. The receiving device 1 has a function of receiving content delivered by a broadcast signal and receiving content delivered by communication (for example, wired or wireless communication using an Internet protocol). The receiving device 1 can communicate with the distribution device 7 and the viewing history management device 2. The receiving device 1 can transmit (register) the viewing history of the content to the viewing history management device 2 and receive (acquire) the past viewing history of the content from the viewing history management device 2. The receiving device 1 can determine the viewing start position of the content based on the past viewing history acquired from the viewing history management device 2.

The viewing history management device 2 receives the viewing history of the content from the receiving device 1 and manages the viewing history. The viewing history management device 2 holds the viewing history information in the internal database. Even when the content is distributed by a plurality of distribution methods for a specific content, the viewing history management device 2 manages the viewing history of the viewer in a unified manner across the plurality of distribution methods. The content is identified by the content ID. Whether or not the content delivered by a certain delivery method and the content delivered by another delivery method are the same content can be known based on the content ID. When the viewing history management device 2 receives a request from the receiving device 1 or the like, the viewing history management device 2 transmits the retained viewing history information to the requesting source.

The viewer device 3 is a device for giving an instruction to the receiving device 1. The viewer device 3 transmits an instruction signal to the receiving device 1 based on an operation such as a button operation by the viewer. The instruction signal may be, for example, an infrared signal or a radio wave signal. When the receiving device 1 is a so-called "television", the viewer device 3 may be, for example, a television remote controller. Further, the viewer device 3 may be a terminal device having a communication function such as a smartphone. For example, the viewer device 3 may be realized as an application program of a smartphone. In this case, the instruction signal may be transmitted from the smartphone to the television. Further, when both the function of the receiving device 1 and the function of the viewer device 3 are realized in the smartphone, the instruction signal from the viewer device 3 to the receiving device 1 may be an electric signal inside the smartphone. good.

The distribution device 7 is a device that distributes content. The distribution device 7 internally manages the content information and responds to the content information when requested. The distribution device 7 distributes the content by broadcasting, or distributes the content by communication using a communication network such as the Internet. In the case of distribution of content by communication, the distribution device 7 can perform distribution in the form of distribution by live streaming or in the form of video on demand (distribution based on a request from a viewer). The distribution device 7 may include broadcasting equipment, or may provide broadcasting equipment outside the distribution device 7. The distribution device 7 is operated by, for example, a content distribution company such as a broadcasting station.

The communication network 9 is a network that enables communication between the distribution device 7 and the reception device 1. The communication network 9 includes, for example, the Internet.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a schematic functional configuration of the distribution device according to the present embodiment. As shown in the figure, the distribution device 7 includes a content management unit 71, a distribution method determination unit 76, a communication distribution unit 77, and a broadcast distribution unit 78. The functions of each part are as described below.

The content management unit 71 manages the content to be distributed. The content management unit 71 holds information such as a content ID, a content name, a content length, a distribution method (broadcasting or communication), a URL, and a distribution start time as information (content information) for managing the content. As the content information, the content management unit 71 may further have information such as a distribution end time and a distributor in addition to the information of each of the above items. Specific examples of the content information will be described in the second, third, and fourth embodiments. The content management unit 71 manages using the above content ID as an identifier of the content that does not depend on the distribution method. As a result, the content management unit 71 can centrally manage a certain content across a plurality of distribution methods. When the content management unit 71 receives a request for content information from the receiving device 1, the content management unit 71 reads out the held content information and provides it to the receiving device 1. When the content management unit 71 receives a content acquisition request from the receiving device 1 via the distribution method determination unit 76, the content management unit 71 may distribute the content by the specified distribution method, such as the communication distribution unit 77 or the content management unit 71. An instruction is given to the broadcast distribution unit 78. As a result, the requested content is distributed from the communication distribution unit 77 and the broadcast distribution unit 78. However, in the case of distribution by broadcasting or live distribution by communication, the content management unit 71 distributes the content according to a predetermined distribution schedule without depending on individual requests from the receiving device 1. You may give instructions.

The distribution method determination unit 76 receives the content acquisition request from the receiving device 1. In this content acquisition request, the delivery method is specified. The distribution method determination unit 76 notifies the content management unit 71 of the content distribution method based on the received content acquisition request.

The communication distribution unit 77 distributes the content via a communication network such as the Internet.

The broadcast distribution unit 78 distributes the content by using the broadcast signal (radio wave or the like).

FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a schematic functional configuration of the receiving device according to the present embodiment. As shown in the figure, the receiving device 1 includes a reproduction method determination unit 11, a content information acquisition unit 12, a viewing history acquisition unit 13, a communication reception unit 14, a broadcast reception unit 15, a content presentation unit 16, and a state. It is configured to include a management unit 17. The functions of each part are as described below.

The reproduction method determination unit 11 determines the content reproduction method based on the content information acquired by the content information acquisition unit 12 and the viewing history acquired by the viewing history acquisition unit 13. Specifically, the reproduction method determination unit 11 determines a distribution method included in the content information acquired by the content information acquisition unit 12 and a reproduction method based on the viewing history acquired by the viewing history acquisition unit 13. The reproduction method determination unit 11 may present a candidate for a reproduction method to the viewer, if necessary. The candidate for the reproduction method here may be one or a plurality. The reproduction method determination unit 11 may determine the reproduction method based on the response (operation input or the like) from the viewer to the presentation of the candidate. The reproduction method determination unit 11 transmits a content acquisition request by the determined reproduction method to the distribution device 7. When requesting content acquisition, the reproduction method determination unit 11 specifies a content ID and a URL. The content ID and URL are included in the content information acquired by the content information acquisition unit 12. Further, the reproduction method determination unit 11 can specify a viewing start time (relative time in the content). The reproduction method determination unit 11 can specify the viewing start time so as to reproduce from the continuation of the portion that has already been viewed, based on the viewing history acquired by the viewing history acquisition unit 13. That is, the viewing history includes information (relative end time) about the end position of the reproduction when the content is reproduced. The sum of the viewing start time and the viewing time is information about the end position of the reproduction. The reproduction method determination unit 11 determines the start position (viewing start position) at the time of new reproduction based on the information of the end position included in the acquired viewing history as at least a part of the reproduction method.

Further, when the reproduction method determining unit 11 receives the content by communication, the reproduction method determining unit 11 instructs the communication receiving unit 14 to receive the content. Further, when the content is received by broadcasting, the reproduction method determining unit 11 instructs the broadcast receiving unit 15 to receive the content. Further, the reproduction method determining unit 11 instructs the content presenting unit 16 to present the content received by the communication receiving unit 14 or the broadcast receiving unit 15 to the viewer.

It should be noted that the content can be reproduced from an arbitrary reproduction position at the timing requested by the receiving device 1 side in the case of the video-on-demand distribution method. In the case of broadcasting, rebroadcasting, or live streaming distribution method, the receiving device 1 cannot receive and reproduce the content from an arbitrary timing or an arbitrary reproduction position. When the reproduction method determining unit 11 selects a distribution method, it makes a determination based on whether or not distribution at an arbitrary reproduction position is required at an arbitrary timing. When the distribution of an arbitrary reproduction position at an arbitrary timing is required, the reproduction method determining unit 11 determines the distribution method of the video-on-demand.

The content information acquisition unit 12 acquires the content information registered in the distribution device 7 from the distribution device 7 by communication. This content information is content information including a plurality of distribution methods for one content. That is, by referring to the content information, it is possible to grasp the distribution method of the content. The content information acquisition unit 12 specifies a content ID when acquiring content information about a specific content.

The viewing history acquisition unit 13 acquires the viewing history from the viewing history management device 2. The viewing history acquisition unit 13 can request the viewing history from the viewing history management device 2 when necessary. The viewing history acquisition unit 13 can acquire only the viewing history of necessary contents from the viewing history management device 2, for example, by designating the content ID.

The communication receiving unit 14 receives the content by communication according to the instruction from the reproduction method determining unit 11. The communication receiving unit 14 passes the received content to the content presenting unit 16.

The broadcast receiving unit 15 receives the broadcast content according to the instruction from the reproduction method determining unit 11. The broadcast receiving unit 15 passes the received content to the content presenting unit 16.

The content presenting unit 16 receives and decodes content from the communication receiving unit 14 and the broadcast receiving unit 15. The content presentation unit 16 presents the decoded content (video or audio) to the viewer. The content presentation unit 16 displays an image on a display device (not shown) or outputs audio from a speaker (not shown) or the like. That is, the content presenting unit 16 presents the content received by the communication receiving unit 14 or the broadcast receiving unit 15 by using the distribution method and the reproducing method determined by the reproduction method determining unit 11. The content presentation unit 16 passes information on the reproduction position (relative time in the content) to the state management unit 17.

The state management unit 17 acquires information from each unit in the receiving device 1 and manages the state of the receiving device 1. Specifically, the state management unit 17 acquires information such as the content ID and the reproduction method of the content being reproduced from the reproduction method determination unit 11. Further, the state management unit 17 acquires information on the reproduction position (relative time) of the content from the content presentation unit 16. The state management unit 17 generates a viewing history based on the acquired information and registers it in the viewing history management device 2. The viewing history may include information such as a content ID, a URL, a viewing start time (relative time), and a viewing time (viewing elapsed time from the viewing start time). That is, the state management unit 17 registers the viewing history based on the situation in which the content presenting unit 16 presents the content in the viewing history management device 2.

FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a configuration of a content acquisition request and its data content transmitted to the distribution device 7 by the reproduction method determination unit 11 of the receiving device 1. As shown in the figure, the content acquisition request includes data items such as a content ID, a URL (uniform resource location), and a viewing start time. The content acquisition request may include other data items. The content ID is identification information for uniquely identifying the type of content. The content ID is, for example, information that can identify a movie title, a drama title, a broadcast time, and the like. The URL is location information for the receiving device to receive the distribution of the content. In both the case of distribution by communication and the case of distribution by broadcasting, the location of the content can be represented by the URL. The viewing start time is a requested viewing start position (relative time) in the content. In this example, the viewing start time is expressed as a numerical value in minutes. When requesting the acquisition of content by broadcasting or when requesting the acquisition of live distribution (live broadcast) content by communication, the viewing start time data in the content acquisition request may be treated as invalid. ..

FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of viewing history data and the data content thereof transmitted by the state management unit 17 of the receiving device 1 to the viewing history management device 2. As shown in the figure, the viewing history includes data items such as a content ID, a URL, a viewing start time, and a viewing time. The viewing history may include other data items. The content ID is identification information for uniquely identifying the type of content. The URL is information indicating a destination location accessed by the receiving device 1 when presenting the content. The viewing start time is the time when the content is started to be viewed by the distribution method (relative time in the content). The viewing start time is represented by, for example, a numerical value in minutes. The viewing time is a viewing time that has continued from the above viewing start time. The viewing time is expressed, for example, as a numerical value in minutes. The viewing history can be repeatedly transmitted a plurality of times during one viewing. That is, the value of the above-mentioned viewing time gradually increases each time the viewing history is transmitted during one viewing.

The viewing history in the form shown in FIG. 5 includes information (relative end time) about the end position of the reproduction when the content is reproduced. That is, the sum of the viewing start time and the viewing time is information about the end position of the reproduction.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing a schematic functional configuration of the viewing history management device according to the present embodiment. As shown in the figure, the viewing history management device 2 includes an interface unit 21 and a viewing history management database 22.

The interface unit 21 executes the function of the interface to the external device. The interface unit 21 receives registration of viewing history from, for example, the receiving device 1. When the registration of the viewing history is accepted, the interface unit 21 stores the viewing history in the viewing history management database 22. Further, the interface unit 21 receives a request for acquisition of viewing history from, for example, the receiving device 1. When the request for acquisition of the viewing history is received, the interface unit 21 transmits the requested viewing history to the requesting device.

That is, when the interface unit 21 receives the request for registration of the viewing history from the receiving device 1, the interface unit 21 writes the viewing history in the viewing history management database 22. When the interface unit 21 receives the request for acquisition of the viewing history from the receiving device 1, the interface unit 21 transmits the viewing history read from the viewing history management database 22 to the receiving device 1.

The viewing history management database 22 accumulates and manages the viewing history sent from the receiving device 1. The viewing history management database 22 is appropriately read based on a request for reading (acquisition of viewing history) from the receiving device 1. The viewing history management database 22 stores a viewing history including at least a content ID for identifying the content, a distribution method when the content is viewed, and information about the end position of playback when the content is viewed. Is.

FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of the viewing history management database according to the present embodiment. As shown in the figure, the viewing history management database can be configured as tabular data, and is configured to include items such as registration date and time, content ID, URL, viewing start time (relative time), and viewing time. ..
Is. Among these items, each item of content ID, URL, viewing start time (relative time), and viewing time is the data as described with reference to FIG. That is, the viewing history management database retains and manages the viewing history (FIG. 5) transmitted from the receiving device 1 with the data of the registration date and time added.
This registration date and time represents the date and time when the viewing history of the line is registered. The registration date and time can be considered to be substantially equal to the date and time when the viewing history is generated on the receiving device 1 side.

The viewing history acquisition unit 13 of the receiving device 1 described above can also acquire, for example, the entire viewing history of the viewing history management database. Further, the viewing history acquisition unit 13 can also specify search conditions related to data items such as the content ID and the registration date and time, and acquire the viewing history extracted according to the conditions.

As described above, in the first embodiment, the receiving device 1 registers the viewing history in the viewing history management device 2 based on the situation when the content is received and played back. Further, the receiving device 1 can acquire the viewing history of the content from the viewing history management device 2 when trying to reproduce the content. As a result, the receiving device 1 obtains information about the past viewing situation. Therefore, the receiving device 1 can reproduce the content based on the situation. For example, the viewing history can include a position (relative time position in the content) at which the content has finished playing. The receiving device 1 can grasp the reproduction end position when the same content is reproduced in the past. Therefore, the receiving device 1 can be controlled to start reproduction from a position depending on the reproduction end position (for example, the past reproduction end position itself). At this time, the method of delivering the content at one time and the method of delivering the same content at another time may be different. For example, it may be delivered by broadcasting at one time and by video on demand (communication) at other times. That is, in the present embodiment, since the viewing history management device 2 holds the viewing history of the same content across a plurality of distribution methods, the receiving device 1 has the previous distribution method even if the distribution method is different between the previous time and the current time. The content can be played back depending on the viewing history.

[Modified example of the first embodiment]
The receiving device 1 described in the first embodiment acquires the viewing history from the viewing history management device as one of the information for determining the content reproduction method, and at the time of reproducing the content, the viewing history based on the situation is obtained. It was to be registered in the viewing history management device. As a modification, the receiving device 1 may only acquire the viewing history and do not register the viewing history. In that case, the receiving device 1 can determine the method of reproducing the content based on the acquired viewing history. Further, the receiving device 1 may only register the viewing history and do not acquire the viewing history. In that case, another receiving device 1 can determine the reproduction method depending on the viewing history registered by the receiving device 1. These modifications are also applicable in the second to fourth embodiments.

[Second Embodiment]
Next, the second embodiment will be described. The matters already described in the previous embodiment may be omitted below. Here, the matters peculiar to the present embodiment will be mainly described. In the second embodiment, one television has the function of the receiving device 1 described in the first embodiment and the function of the viewing history management device 2.

FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of the system according to the present embodiment. As shown in the figure, the system in the present embodiment includes a distribution device 7, a television 51, and a viewer device 3. The distribution device 7 is provided, for example, as a part of the equipment of a broadcasting station. Further, the television 51 is internally provided with the functions of the receiving device 1 and the viewing history management device 2. The viewer device 3 is, for example, a remote control device for a television. Alternatively, the viewer device 3 may be a mobile terminal such as a smartphone having a function of linking with a television (for example, a function of hybrid cast connect). The viewer device 3 can transmit an instruction to the television 51 based on the operation of the viewer or the like.

9, 10, and 11 are sequence diagrams showing an example of the operating procedure of the system according to the present embodiment. 9 to 11 show a series of sequences. Hereinafter, the operation of the system will be described with reference to this sequence diagram.

[Processing procedure 1: First viewing]
In step S101 of FIG. 9, the viewer device 3 sends an instruction to the receiving device 1 to start viewing the content whose content ID is "xxx001" based on the operation of the viewer. Specifically, as an example, when the viewer operates the remote control device of the television, the remote control device receives an instruction for receiving / playing the content ID "xxx001" from the displayed program guide. Send to 1. In this example, it is assumed that the viewing start date and time of the content is "2020/10/01 08: 00: 00".

Next, in step S102, the content information acquisition unit 12 of the receiving device 1 transmits a content information request to the distribution device 7 based on the instruction in step S101.

Next, in step S103, the content management unit 71 of the distribution device 7 transmits the content information to the reception device 1 based on the request from the reception device 1. This content information will be described later with reference to FIG.

Next, in step S104, the viewing history acquisition unit 13 of the receiving device 1 requests the viewing history management device 2 for the viewing history. In this example, at this point in time, the viewing history management device 2 does not have a viewing history for the content ID "xxx001".

Next, in step S105, the viewing history management device 2 responds to the request for viewing history in step S104. However, the viewing history in this reply is empty data.

Next, in step S106, the broadcast receiving unit 15 of the receiving device 1 starts receiving the broadcast corresponding to the content ID "xxx001". The reproduction method determination unit 11 of the receiving device 1 determines to receive the content by broadcasting based on the content information received in step S103. The URL for receiving the broadcast is also included in the content information.

Next, in step S107, the content presentation unit 16 of the receiving device 1 reproduces the content. That is, the content presenting unit 16 decodes the content and presents it to the viewer.

After starting the reproduction of the content, in step S108, step S109, step S110, ..., The state management unit 17 of the receiving device 1 registers the viewing history in the viewing history management device 2. While the content is being received and played back, the state management unit 17 grasps the state and repeatedly updates the viewing history. As a result, the viewing history of the content is registered in the viewing history management device 2. Further, in the viewing history management device 2, the playback time data in the viewing history is repeatedly updated. That is, the value of the recorded viewing time gradually increases as the processing of receiving and reproducing the content progresses.

In this example, it is assumed that the viewer device 3 requests the receiving device 1 to stop viewing the content 10 minutes after the start of viewing the content. That is, in step S121, the viewer device 3 transmits a stop request to the receiving device 1. As a specific example, the viewer operates the remote control device of the television to stop the reception and reproduction of the content being viewed.

Next, in step S122, upon receiving the instruction to stop viewing in step S121, the state management unit 17 of the receiving device 1 transmits the viewing history registration completion to the viewing history management device 2.

Next, in step S123, the viewing history management device 2 stops updating the viewing history management database related to the content ID based on the end of viewing history registration received in step S122. Further, the viewing history management device 2 returns a message of the completion of viewing history registration to the state management unit 17 of the receiving device 1. The date and time at this point is "2020/10/01 08:10: 00". That is, 10 minutes have passed since the viewing of the content was started.

The above-mentioned series of processes from steps S101 to S123 corresponds to the first content viewing in the operation example of the present embodiment.

[Processing procedure 1: Second viewing]
Next, moving to FIG. 10, the procedure for the second viewing of the content is performed. First, in step S131, the viewer operates the viewer device to restart the television 51 and instruct the viewer to view the content of the content ID "xxx001". The viewer device 3 transmits an instruction to start viewing the content ID "xxx001" to the receiving device 1. The receiving device 1 receives this instruction.

Next, in step S132, similarly to step S102, the content information acquisition unit 12 of the receiving device 1 transmits a content information request to the distribution device 7 based on the signal of the instruction from the viewer device 3. ..

Next, in step S133, the content management unit 71 of the distribution device 7 transmits the content information to the receiving device 1 in the same manner as in step S103.

Next, in step S134, as in step S104, the viewing history acquisition unit 13 of the receiving device 1 requests the viewing history management device 2 for the viewing history related to the content ID "xxx001". At this point, the viewing history management device 2 holds the viewing history information received in step S109, step S110, ... In step S108.

Next, in step S135, the viewing history management device 2 responds to the request for viewing history in step S134, as in step S105. At this point, the viewing history management device 2 transmits the viewing history based on the last updated information about the content ID "xxx001" to the receiving device 1.

Next, in step S136, the reproduction method determination unit 11 of the receiving device 1 determines the option of performing video-on-demand reproduction from the latest reproduction position remaining as the viewing history, and the URL at that time. Present to the viewer. Specifically, the reproduction method determination unit 11 displays information on the reproduction restart position and information on the distribution method (video on demand distribution) on the screen of the television 51, and waits for an instruction from the viewer device. At this time, the reproduction method determination unit 11 may simultaneously present to the viewer an option to distribute the content by video on demand from the beginning of the content instead of from the middle.

Next, in step S137, the viewer device 3 transmits to the receiving device 1 a signal indicating that the playback is approved from the continuous playback position on demand based on the viewer's operation. The reproduction method determination unit 11 of the receiving device 1 determines to reproduce from the continuation of the previous reproduction end position by on-demand distribution. In this example, it is assumed that the date and time when the instruction in step S137 is given is "2020/10/01 08:15: 00".

Next, in step S138, the receiving device 1 requests the distribution device 7 to distribute the on-demand content by communication. At this time, the receiving device 1 transmits a content acquisition request (see FIG. 4). The viewing start time (relative time) specified here is "10" (unit is minutes).

Next, in step S139, the distribution device 7 returns the on-demand content by communication to the receiving device 1.

Next, in step S140, the communication receiving unit 14 of the receiving device 1 starts receiving the on-demand content from the subsequent playback position. Further, the content presenting unit 16 of the receiving device 1 starts presenting the received content. In this example, the playback start date and time is assumed to be "2020/10/01 08:15: 00".

After starting the reproduction of the content by communication, in step S141, step S142, step S143, ..., The state management unit 17 of the receiving device 1 registers the viewing history in the viewing history management device 2. While the content is being received and played back, the state management unit 17 grasps the state and repeatedly updates the viewing history. As a result, the viewing history of the content is registered in the viewing history management device 2. As the content playback process progresses, the recorded viewing time value gradually increases.

Next, the process proceeds to FIG. 11, and in step S151, the content being played ends. The distribution device 7 notifies the receiving device 1 of the end of the communication on-demand content.

Next, in step S152, upon receiving the notification of the end of the content distribution in step S151, the state management unit 17 of the receiving device 1 transmits the viewing history registration completion to the viewing history management device 2.

Next, in step S153, the viewing history management device 2 stops updating the viewing history management database with respect to the content ID based on the end of viewing history registration received in step S152. Further, the viewing history management device 2 returns a message of the completion of viewing history registration to the state management unit 17 of the receiving device 1. The date and time when the process of step S153 is completed is assumed to be "2020/10/01 08:15: 00".

The above-mentioned series of processes from steps S131 to S153 corresponds to the second content viewing (delivery by communication from the middle of the content) in the operation example of the present embodiment.

FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration of content information held by the content management unit 71 of the distribution device 7 and an example thereof in the above processing procedure example. As shown in the figure, the content information includes each item of a content ID, a content name, a content length, a distribution method, a URL, and a distribution start date and time. As the structure of the content information, one content may have a plurality of distribution methods.

The meaning of each data item is as follows. The content ID is identification information that can uniquely identify the content. The content name is the name (title, etc.) of the content. The content length is the length when the content is played back. In the present embodiment, the content information holds the information of the content length as a numerical value in minutes. The delivery method is a delivery method of the content. The URL and the delivery start date and time may be different for each delivery method. The URL is information indicating the location of the content in the distribution method. The distribution start date and time is information indicating the distribution start date and time of the content by the distribution method. In the present embodiment, the distribution start date and time is expressed in the form of year, month, day, hour, minute, and second (YYYY / MM / DD hh: mm: ss). In the case of on-demand format distribution (VOD or the like), the distribution start date and time indicates that the viewer can request distribution after that date and time. In the case of distribution other than the on-demand format (broadcasting, live streaming, etc.), the distribution start date and time represents the date and time when distribution starts depending on the distribution method.

In the example shown in FIG. 12, the content ID is "xxx001". The content name of the content is "Continuous TV novel" OOOO "Episode 1". The content length is "15" (minutes). Further, as a distribution method, "broadcast", "broadcast (rebroadcast)", "live streaming", and "VOD" are registered. When the delivery method is "broadcast", the URL is "arib: // aaaaaa". This notation using "arib: //" corresponds to a specific broadcasting service. When the delivery method is "broadcast (rebroadcast)", the URL is "arib: // bbbb". When the delivery method is "live streaming", the URL is "https://cccccc". When the delivery method is "VOD", the URL is "https://dddddd". In addition, "2020/10/01 08:00:00" is registered as the distribution start date and time when the distribution method is other than "broadcast (rebroadcast)". When the distribution method is "broadcast (rebroadcast)", "2020/10/01 12:45:00" is registered as the distribution start date and time. As shown in the figure, the content information can centrally manage a plurality of distribution methods for a single content (single content ID).

FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the viewing history in the processing procedure shown in FIGS. 9 to 11 according to the present embodiment. Specifically, the viewing history shown here is the viewing history possessed by the viewing history management device 2 at the time when the first content reproduction is completed (when the processing in step S123 is completed) in the above processing procedure. .. As shown in the figure, the registration date and time of this viewing history is "2020/10/01 08: 10:00". The content ID is "xxx001". The URL is "arib: // aaaaaa". Further, at the time of the first viewing, since the content is viewed from the beginning, the viewing start time (relative time) is "0" (minutes). The viewing time at this point is "10" (minutes).

FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram showing an example of viewing history in the processing procedure shown in FIGS. 9 to 11 of the present embodiment. Specifically, the viewing history shown here is, in addition to the viewing history shown in FIG. 13, at the time when the second content reproduction is completed (at the time when the processing in step S153 is completed) in the above processing procedure. This is the viewing history of the viewing history management device 2. As shown in the figure, the registration date and time of this viewing history is "2020/10/01 08:20:00". The content ID is "xxx001". The URL is "https://dddddd". Further, at the time of this second viewing, since the viewing was performed from the position of the playback end at the time of the first viewing, the viewing start time (relative time) is "10" (minutes). .. Further, since the second viewing ends when the content remaining in the unlistened state ends, the viewing time in the second viewing is "5" (minutes).

As shown in FIGS. 13 and 14, in the processing procedure shown in FIGS. 9 to 11, the time between “08:00:00” and “08:10: 00” at “2020/10/01” is reached. In addition, the first viewing (viewing on the air) for 10 minutes was performed. In addition, the second viewing (viewing by on-demand by communication) for 5 minutes was performed between the time "08:15:00" and "08:20:00" on the same day. That is, a total of 15 minutes of content was viewed in total. The viewing history management device 2 holds the viewing history information in such a form.

As described above, in the second embodiment, one television is configured to include the function of the receiving device 1 and the function of the viewing history management device 2. That is, the configuration, operation, and effect described in the first embodiment can be realized by using one television. As an example, one television can be used to manage the viewing history of the same content straddling the distribution by broadcasting and the distribution by communication. In this case, when the content is viewed on one TV, for example, by broadcasting, the viewing is interrupted once, and then the same content is viewed by communication (on-demand), for example, the interrupted position is automatically performed. It is possible to resume viewing of the content from (playback position).

[Third Embodiment]
Next, the third embodiment will be described. The matters already explained up to the previous embodiment may be omitted below. Here, the matters peculiar to the present embodiment will be mainly described. In the third embodiment, each of the televisions 52 and 53 has the function of the receiving device 1 described in the first embodiment and the function of the viewing history management device 2. These televisions 52 and 53 are associated with each other in advance so that the viewing history of the television of the other party can be referred to each other. The television 52 may be referred to as a television (TV) A, and the television 53 may be referred to as a television (TV) B.

FIG. 15 is a block diagram showing a system configuration according to the present embodiment. As shown in the figure, the system in this embodiment includes a distribution device 7, televisions 52 and 53, and a viewer device 3. The distribution device 7 is provided, for example, as a part of the equipment of a broadcasting station. Further, each of the televisions 52 and 53 has an internal function of the receiving device 1 and the viewing history management device 2. The receiving device 1 in the television 52 is configured to be able to access not only the viewing history management device 2 in the television 52 but also the viewing history management device 2 in the television 53. Similarly, the receiving device 1 in the television 53 is configured to be able to access not only the viewing history management device 2 in the television 53 but also the viewing history management device 2 in the television 52. The viewer device 3 is, for example, a remote control device for a television. Alternatively, the viewer device 3 may be a mobile terminal such as a smartphone having a function of linking with a television (for example, a function of hybrid cast connect). The viewer device 3 can transmit an instruction to each of the televisions 52 and 53 based on the operation of the viewer or the like.

16, FIG. 17, FIG. 18, and FIG. 19 are sequence diagrams showing an example of the operating procedure of the system according to the present embodiment. 16 to 19 show a series of sequences. Hereinafter, the operation of the system will be described with reference to this sequence diagram.

[Processing procedure 2: First viewing]
In step S201 of FIG. 16, the viewer device 3 gives an instruction to start viewing (reception and playback) of the content whose content ID is "xxx002" based on the operation of the viewer on the television 52 (TV-). It is sent to the receiving device 1 of A). In this example, it is assumed that the viewing start date and time of the content is "2020/10/01 21:00:00".

Next, in step S202, the content information acquisition unit 12 of the TV-A receiving device 1 transmits a content information request to the distribution device 7 based on the instruction in step S201.

Next, in step S203, the content management unit 71 of the distribution device 7 transmits the content information to the reception device 1 of the TV-A based on the request from the reception device 1 of the TV-A. This content information will be described later with reference to FIG.

Next, in step S204, the viewing history acquisition unit 13 of the receiving device 1 of the TV-A requests the viewing history of the viewing history management device 2 of the own television (TV-A). In this example, at this point in time, the viewing history management device 2 of the TV-A does not have a viewing history for the content ID "xxx002".

Next, in step S205, the viewing history management device 2 of TV-A responds to the request for viewing history in step S204. However, the viewing history in this reply is empty data.

Next, in step S206, the viewing history acquisition unit 13 of the receiving device 1 of the TV-A requests the viewing history of the viewing history management device 2 of the other party's television (TV-B). In this example, at this point in time, the viewing history management device 2 of the TV-B does not have a viewing history for the content ID "xxx002".

Next, in step S207, the viewing history management device 2 of the TV-B responds to the request for viewing history in step S206. However, the viewing history in this reply is empty data.

Next, in step S208, the broadcast receiving unit 15 of the receiving device 1 of the TV-A starts receiving the broadcast corresponding to the content ID "xxx002". The reproduction method determination unit 11 of the reception device 1 of the TV-A has determined to receive the content by broadcasting based on the content information received in step S203. The URL for receiving the broadcast is also included in the content information.

Next, in step S209, the content presentation unit 16 of the TV-A receiving device 1 reproduces the content. That is, the content presenting unit 16 decodes the content and presents it to the viewer.

After starting the reproduction of the content on the receiving device 1 of the TV-A, in step S210, step S211, step S212, ..., The state management unit 17 of the receiving device 1 of the TV-A manages the viewing history of the TV-A. The viewing history is registered in the device 2. While the content is being received and played back, the state management unit 17 in the TV-A grasps the state and repeatedly updates the viewing history. As a result, the viewing history of the content is registered in the viewing history management device 2 of the TV-A. In the viewing history management device 2 of the TV-A, the playback time data in the viewing history is repeatedly updated. That is, the value of the recorded viewing time gradually increases as the processing of receiving and reproducing the content progresses.

In the assumption of this example, at "2020/10/01 22:00:00" 60 minutes after the start of viewing the content, the viewer moves from the TV-A room to the TV-B room. In addition, the viewing of the content on TV-A is temporarily stopped. Therefore, the system continues with the following steps:

Moving on to FIG. 17, in step S221, the viewer device 3 transmits an instruction for stopping the viewing of the content (for example, turning off the power of the TV-A) to the TV-A. As a result, the receiving device 1 of the TV-A stops receiving and playing the content.

Next, in step S222, in response to the stop of viewing in step S221, the state management unit 17 of the receiving device 1 of the TV-A completes the viewing history registration with respect to the viewing history management device 2 of the TV-A. Send.

Next, in step S223, the viewing history management device 2 of the TV-A stops updating the viewing history management database related to the content ID based on the end of the viewing history registration received in step S222. Further, the viewing history management device 2 of the TV-A returns a message of the completion of viewing history registration to the state management unit 17 of the receiving device 1 of the TV-A.

The above-mentioned series of processes from steps S201 to S223 corresponds to the first content viewing in the operation example of the present embodiment.

[Processing procedure 2: Second viewing]
Next, moving to FIG. 18, in step S231, the viewer device 3 starts viewing the content of the content ID “xxx002” with respect to the receiving device 1 of the television 53 (TV-B) as the second reproduction. To instruct.

Next, in step S232, the content information acquisition unit 12 of the TV-B receiving device 1 transmits a content information request to the distribution device 7 based on the instruction in step S231.

Next, in step S233, the content management unit 71 of the distribution device 7 transmits the content information to the reception device 1 of the TV-B based on the request from the reception device 1 of the TV-B. This content information will be described later with reference to FIG.

Next, in step S234, the viewing history acquisition unit 13 of the TV-B receiving device 1 requests the viewing history management device 2 of the own television (TV-B) for the viewing history. At this point, the viewing history management device 2 of the TV-B does not have a viewing history for the content ID "xxx002".

Next, in step S235, the viewing history management device 2 of the TV-B responds to the request for viewing history in step S234. However, the viewing history in this reply is empty data.

Next, in step S236, the viewing history acquisition unit 13 of the receiving device 1 of the TV-B requests the viewing history of the viewing history management device 2 of the other party's television (TV-A). In this example, at this point, the viewing history management device 2 of the TV-A holds the viewing history registered between steps S210 and S223 with respect to the content ID "xxx002".

Next, in step S237, the viewing history management device 2 of TV-A responds to the request for viewing history in step S236. The viewing history included in this response corresponds to the viewing history registered between steps S210 and S223 described above.

Next, in step S238, the reproduction method determination unit 11 of the reception device 1 of the TV-B is a continuation from the latest reproduction position remaining as the viewing history (in this example, the viewing history on the TV-A). The viewer is presented with an option for video-on-demand playback and a URL (https://gggggg) at that time. Specifically, the reproduction method determination unit 11 displays information on the reproduction restart position and information on the distribution method (video on demand distribution) on the screen of the television 53 (TV-B), and displays the information on the screen of the television 53 (TV-B) from the viewer device. Wait for instructions. At this time, the playback method determination unit 11 views the option of distributing the content by video on demand from the beginning of the content and the content being broadcast (URL is arib: // eeee). The options may be presented to the viewer at the same time.

Next, in step S239, the viewer device 3 transmits a signal indicating that it is approved to play from the continuous playback position on demand to the receiving device 1 of the TV-B based on the operation of the viewer. do. The reproduction method determination unit 11 of the reception device 1 of the TV-B determines to reproduce from the continuation of the previous reproduction end position (relative time is 60 minutes) by on-demand distribution. In this example, it is assumed that the date and time when the instruction in step S139 is given is "2020/10/01 22:10: 00".

Next, in step S240, the TV-B receiving device 1 requests the distribution device 7 to distribute the on-demand content by communication. At this time, the receiving device 1 transmits the content acquisition request. The viewing start time (relative time) specified here is "60" (unit is minutes).

Next, in step S241, the distribution device 7 returns the on-demand content by communication to the reception device 1 of the TV-B.

Next, in step S242, the communication receiving unit 14 of the receiving device 1 of the TV-B starts receiving the on-demand content from the continuous playback position. Further, the content presenting unit 16 of the receiving device 1 starts presenting the received content.

After starting the reproduction of the content on the TV-B receiving device 1, in step S243, step S244, step S245, ..., The state management unit 17 of the TV-B receiving device 1 manages the viewing history of the TV-B. The viewing history is registered in the device 2. While the receiving device 1 of the TV-B is receiving and playing the content, the state management unit 17 in the TV-B grasps the state and repeatedly updates the viewing history. As a result, the viewing history of the content is registered in the viewing history management device 2 of the TV-B. In the viewing history management device 2 of the TV-B, the playback time data in the viewing history is repeatedly updated. That is, as the processing of receiving and reproducing the content progresses, the value of the viewing time in the recorded viewing history gradually increases.

The content ends 60 minutes after the on-demand content starts playing in step S242.

Next, moving to FIG. 19, as the reproduced content ends in step S251, the distribution device 7 notifies the receiving device 1 of the TV-B of the end of the communication on-demand content.

Next, in step S252, upon receiving the notification of the end of the content distribution in step S251, the state management unit 17 of the receiving device 1 of the TV-B sends the viewing history to the viewing history management device 2 of the TV-B. Send the registration completion.

Next, in step S253, the viewing history management device 2 of the TV-B stops updating the viewing history management database with respect to the content ID based on the end of the viewing history registration received in step S252. Further, the viewing history management device 2 of the TV-B returns a message of the completion of viewing history registration to the state management unit 17 of the receiving device 1 of the TV-B. In this example, the date and time when the process of step S253 is completed is assumed to be "2020/10/01 23:10: 00".

The above-mentioned series of processes from steps S231 to S253 corresponds to the second content viewing (delivery of on-demand content by communication from the middle of the content) in the operation example of the present embodiment.

FIG. 20 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration of content information held by the content management unit 71 of the distribution device 7 and an example thereof in the above processing procedure example. The data items of the content information have already been described with reference to FIG.

FIG. 20 shows the content information of two types of contents as an example. The content ID of the first content is "xxx001". Since the content ID "xxx001" has been described with reference to FIG. 12, the description thereof will be omitted here. The content ID of the second content is "xxx002". The content of the content information of the content ID "xxx002" is as follows.

In FIG. 20, the content name corresponding to the content ID “xxx002” is “road show“ △△△ adventure ””. The content length is "120" (minutes). Further, as a distribution method, "broadcasting", "live streaming", and "VOD" are registered. When the delivery method is "broadcast", the URL is "arib: // eeee". When the delivery method is "live streaming", the URL is "https://fffff". When the delivery method is "VOD", the URL is "https://gggggg". Further, for all the distribution methods, "2020/10/01 21:00:00" is registered as the distribution start date and time. As described above, the content information can centrally manage a plurality of distribution methods for a single content (single content ID).

Next, an example of the viewing history in the processing procedure shown in FIGS. 16 to 19 of the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 21, 22, 23, and 24. It should be noted that the viewing history has each item of registration date / time, content ID, URL, viewing start time (relative time), and viewing time, as described above.

In FIG. 21, the viewing history of the viewing history data held by the viewing history management device 2 of the television 52 (TV-A) is registered by the first reproduction from the start of the processing procedure (before step S201). It is a schematic diagram which shows the contents before the start (before the step S210). As shown in the figure, the viewing history management device 2 of the TV-A does not have a viewing history for the content ID "xxx002" during the period.

FIG. 22 is a schematic diagram showing the contents of the viewing history data held by the viewing history management device 2 of the television 52 (TV-A) after the end of the first reproduction (after step S223). As shown in the figure, the viewing history management device 2 of the TV-A has one viewing history record for the content ID "xxx002" during the period. The registration date and time of the viewing history is "2020/10/01 22:00:00". This date and time represents the timing when the viewing history was last registered in the first reproduction. The content ID is "xxx002". The URL is "arib: // eeee". This URL indicates that the viewing was by broadcasting. The viewing start time (relative time) is "0" (minutes). This means that the content was viewed from the beginning by broadcasting. The viewing time is "60" (minutes). This indicates that the reproduction is completed 60 minutes after the start of viewing (stop request in step S221).

In FIG. 23, the viewing history of the viewing history data held by the viewing history management device 2 of the television 53 (TV-B) is registered by the second reproduction from the start of the processing procedure (before step S201). It is a schematic diagram which shows the contents before the start (before the step S243). As shown in the figure, the viewing history management device 2 of the TV-B does not have a viewing history for the content ID "xxx002" during the period.

FIG. 24 is a schematic diagram showing the contents of the viewing history data held by the viewing history management device 2 of the television 53 (TV-B) after the end of the second reproduction (after step S253). As shown in the figure, the viewing history management device 2 of the TV-B has one viewing history record for the content ID "xxx002" during the period. The registration date and time of the viewing history is "2020/10/01 23:10: 00". This date and time represents the timing when the viewing history was last registered in the second reproduction. The content ID is "xxx002". The URL is "https://gggggg". This URL is a URL for on-demand distribution. The viewing start time (relative time) is "60" (minutes). This indicates that the content delivered on demand was viewed from the middle (position 60 minutes after the beginning). The viewing time is "60" (minutes). This indicates that the reproduction is completed 60 minutes after the start of viewing (the end of the communication on-demand content in step S251).

As described above, in the third embodiment, a plurality of televisions are associated with each other. As a result, the receiving device 1 of a certain TV can acquire the viewing history from the viewing history management device 2 of the own TV and the viewing history management device 2 of the other TV. That is, the receiving device 1 of a certain TV depends not only on the viewing history managed by the viewing history management device 2 of the own TV but also on the viewing history managed by the viewing history management device 2 of another TV. It becomes possible to play the content. According to such a third embodiment, it is possible to automatically take over the position of resuming playback between a plurality of televisions. Further, at that time, the distribution method at the time of reproduction on the first television and the distribution method at the time of reproduction on the second television may be different. For example, after playing content by broadcasting on a TV installed in one space, video on demand (communication) on another TV installed in a different space depends on the previous viewing history. Content can be played (for example, in the form of inheriting the playback position).

[Modification 1 of the third embodiment]
In the third embodiment, TV-A and TV-B each have a viewing history management device 2. As a modification, the function of the viewing history management device 2 of the TV-A and the function of the viewing history management device 2 of the TV-B may be integrated into either TV. Further, the viewing history management device 2 may be provided as a third device that is neither TV-A nor TV-B.

[Modification 2 of the third embodiment]
In the example of the processing procedure of the third embodiment, the case where two televisions cooperate with each other has been described. The number of televisions is not limited to two, and as a modification, three or more televisions may be comprehensively associated with each other so that they can refer to and use each other's viewing history.

[Fourth Embodiment]
Next, the fourth embodiment will be described. The matters already explained up to the previous embodiment may be omitted below. Here, the matters peculiar to the present embodiment will be mainly described. In the fourth embodiment, each of the plurality of televisions has the function of the receiving device 1 described in the first embodiment. Further, apart from those televisions, a smartphone (portable terminal device) has a function of the receiving device 1 and a function of the viewing history management device 2.

FIG. 25 is a block diagram showing a system configuration according to the present embodiment. As shown in the figure, the system in the present embodiment includes a distribution device 7, televisions 54 and 55, a smartphone 56, and a viewer device 3. The distribution device 7 is provided, for example, as a part of the equipment of a broadcasting station. Further, each of the televisions 54 and 55 has a function of the receiving device 1 inside. The viewer device 3 is, for example, a remote control device for a television. The remote control device uses, for example, an infrared signal to transmit an instruction to the television. Alternatively, the viewer device 3 may be a mobile terminal such as a smartphone having a function of linking with a television (for example, a function of hybrid cast connect). The viewer device 3 can transmit an instruction to each of the televisions 54 and 55 based on the operation of the viewer and the like.

The smartphone 56 shown in FIG. 25 is a kind of personal small mobile terminal having communication and information processing functions. The smartphone 56 can display an image or the like on the screen. A touch panel is provided on the screen of the smartphone 56, and the user of the smartphone 56 sends an instruction to the smartphone 56 by inputting information to the smartphone 56 or pressing a button displayed on the screen. Can be done. The smartphone 56 has a function of the receiving device 1 and a function of the viewing history management device 2. Further, the smartphone 56 has the function of the viewer device 3C. The viewer device 3C has the same function as the viewer device 3 described above. The viewer device 3C can send an instruction by an electric signal to the receiving device 1 in the smartphone 56 based on the operation of the user (viewer) or the like. The viewer device 3C in the smartphone 56 may be provided with the function of the viewer device 3. In this case, the viewer device 3C in the smartphone 56 sends an instruction signal to the televisions 54 and 55. To be able to.

In the configuration shown in FIG. 25, the television 54, the television 55, and the smartphone 56 are previously associated with each other. The receiving device 1 of the television 54, the receiving device 1 of the television 55, and the receiving device 1 of the smartphone 56 can share and use the viewing history management device 2 in the smartphone 56. In other words, each of the receiving device 1 of the television 54, the receiving device 1 of the television 55, and the receiving device 1 of the smartphone 56 can register the viewing history in the viewing history management device 2 of the smartphone 56. Further, each of the receiving device 1 of the television 54, the receiving device 1 of the television 55, and the receiving device 1 of the smartphone 56 is configured so that the viewing history can be acquired from the viewing history management device 2 of the smartphone 56. Has been done.

In the following, the television 54 may be referred to as "TV-A", the television 55 may be referred to as "TV-B", and the smartphone 56 may be referred to as "smartphone C". In addition, "TV" is an abbreviation for television and has the same meaning as "television".

26, 27, 28, 29, and 30 are sequence diagrams showing an example of the operating procedure of the system according to the present embodiment. 26-30 show a series of sequences. Hereinafter, the operation of the system will be described with reference to this sequence diagram.

[Processing procedure 3: First viewing]
First, in step S301 of FIG. 26, the viewer device 3 gives an instruction on TV-A to start viewing (reception and playback) of the content whose content ID is "xxx003" based on the operation of the viewer. Send to receiver 1. In this example, it is assumed that the viewing start date and time of the content is "2020/10/03 18:00:00".

Next, in step S302, the content information acquisition unit 12 of the TV-A receiving device 1 transmits a content information request to the distribution device 7 based on the instruction in step S301.

Next, in step S303, the content management unit 71 of the distribution device 7 transmits the content information to the reception device 1 of the TV-A based on the request from the reception device 1 of the TV-A. This content information will be described later with reference to FIG. 31.

Next, in step S304, the viewing history acquisition unit 13 of the receiving device 1 of the TV-A requests the viewing history from the viewing history management device 2 in the smartphone C. In this example, at this point in time, the viewing history management device 2 of the smartphone C does not have a viewing history for the content ID "xxx003".

Next, in step S305, the viewing history management device 2 of the smartphone C responds to the request for viewing history in step S304. However, the viewing history in this reply is empty data.

Next, in step S306, the broadcast receiving unit 15 of the receiving device 1 of the TV-A starts receiving the broadcast corresponding to the content ID "xxx003". The reproduction method determination unit 11 of the reception device 1 of the TV-A has determined to receive the content by broadcasting based on the content information received in step S303. The URL for receiving the broadcast is also included in the content information.

Next, in step S307, the content presenting unit 16 of the TV-A receiving device 1 reproduces the content received by broadcasting. That is, the content presenting unit 16 decodes the content and presents it to the viewer.

After starting the reproduction of the content on the receiving device 1 of the TV-A, in steps S308, S309, S310, ..., The state management unit 17 of the receiving device 1 of the TV-A is the viewing history management device of the smartphone C. Register the viewing history in 2. While the content is being received and played back, the state management unit 17 in the TV-A grasps the state and repeatedly updates the viewing history. As a result, the viewing history of the content is registered in the viewing history management device 2 of the smartphone C. In the viewing history management device 2 of the smartphone C, the playback time data in the viewing history is repeatedly updated. That is, the value of the recorded viewing time gradually increases as the processing of receiving and reproducing the content progresses.

In the assumption of this example, at "2020/10/03 18:30", 30 minutes after the start of viewing the content, the viewer moves from the TV-A room to the TV-B room. In addition, the viewing of the content on TV-A is temporarily stopped. Therefore, the system continues with the following steps:

Next, moving to FIG. 27, in step S321, the viewer device 3 gives an instruction (for example, turning off the power of the TV-A) to the receiving device 1 of the TV-A to stop viewing the content. Send. As a result, the receiving device 1 of the TV-A stops receiving and playing the content.

Next, in step S322, in response to the request to stop viewing in step S321, the state management unit 17 of the receiving device 1 of the TV-A completes the viewing history registration with respect to the viewing history management device 2 of the smartphone C. To send.

Next, in step S323, the viewing history management device 2 of the smartphone C stops updating the viewing history management database related to the content ID based on the end of viewing history registration received in step S322. Further, the viewing history management device 2 of the smartphone C transmits a message of the completion of viewing history registration to the state management unit 17 of the receiving device 1 of the TV-A. In this example, the date and time at this point is assumed to be "2020/10/03 18:30".

The above-mentioned series of processes from steps S301 to S323 corresponds to the first content viewing in the operation example of the present embodiment.

[Processing procedure 3: Second viewing]
Next, moving to FIG. 28, in step S331, the viewer device 3 instructs the receiving device 1 of the TV-B to start viewing the content of the content ID "xxx003" as the second reproduction.

Next, in step S332, the content information acquisition unit 12 of the TV-B receiving device 1 transmits a content information request to the distribution device 7 based on the instruction in step S331.

Next, in step S333, the content management unit 71 of the distribution device 7 transmits the content information to the reception device 1 of the TV-B based on the request from the reception device 1 of the TV-B. This content information will be described later with reference to FIG. 31.

Next, in step S334, the viewing history acquisition unit 13 of the receiving device 1 of the TV-B requests the viewing history from the viewing history management device 2 in the smartphone C. At this point, the viewing history management device 2 of the smartphone C has a history of the content ID "xxx003" based on the result of the first viewing described above.

Next, in step S335, the viewing history management device 2 of the smartphone C responds to the request for viewing history in step S334. That is, the viewing history management device 2 transmits the information on the viewing history of the content ID "xxx003" on the TV-A to the viewing history acquisition unit 13 of the receiving device 1 of the TV-B. The viewing history acquisition unit 13 of the TV-B acquires the viewing history of the TV-A.

Next, in step S336, the reproduction method determination unit 11 of the TV-B receiving device 1 relates to the reproduction method based on the content information obtained in step S333 and the viewing history obtained in step S335. Present multiple options to the viewer. Specifically, the reproduction method determination unit 11 of the receiving device 1 of the TV-B transfers the content of the content ID "xxx003" from the middle (the first) by video-on-demand (URL is https: // jjjjj) by communication. Whether to watch from the beginning (URL is http: // jjjjj) on video on demand (URL is http: // jjjjj) or broadcast (URL is arib: // hhhh) Is displayed on the screen of TV-B. Further, the reproduction method determination unit 11 of the receiving device 1 waits for an instruction from the viewer device 3 corresponding to the display on this screen.

Next, in this example, in step S337, the viewer device 3 sends a signal for instructing the viewing of the content by broadcast reception (reception by the above arib: // hhhh) based on the operation of the viewer on the TV. -Send to the receiving device 1 of B. According to this instruction, the reproduction method determination unit 11 of the reception device 1 of the TV-B determines to receive and reproduce the content being broadcast. In this example, it is assumed that the date and time when the instruction in step S337 is given is "2020/10/03 18:40:00".

Next, in step S338, the broadcast receiving unit 15 of the receiving device 1 of the TV-B starts receiving the broadcast corresponding to the content ID "xxx003". As described above, the reproduction method determination unit 11 of the reception device 1 of the TV-B has determined to receive the content by broadcasting. The URL for receiving the broadcast is included in the content information acquired by the reproduction method determining unit 11 of the receiving device 1 of the TV-B in step S333.

Next, in step S339, the content presenting unit 16 of the TV-B receiving device 1 reproduces the content received by the broadcast receiving unit 15. That is, the content presenting unit 16 decodes the content and presents it to the viewer.

After starting the reproduction of the content on the TV-B receiving device 1, in step S340, step S341, step S342, ..., The state management unit 17 of the TV-B receiving device 1 is the viewing history management device of the smartphone C. Register the viewing history in 2. While the content is being received and played back, the state management unit 17 in the TV-B grasps the state and repeatedly updates the viewing history. As a result, the viewing history of the content is registered in the viewing history management device 2 of the smartphone C. In the viewing history management device 2 of the smartphone C, the playback time data in the viewing history is repeatedly updated. That is, the value of the recorded viewing time gradually increases as the processing of receiving and reproducing the content progresses.

In the assumption of this example, at "2020/10/03 21:00:00" 140 minutes after the start of viewing this second content (180 minutes after the start of the original broadcast content), Broadcasting of the content "xxx003" ends.

Next, in step S343, the state management unit 17 of the TV-B receiving device 1 transmits the viewing history registration end to the viewing history management device 2 of the smartphone C, triggered by the event of the end of the broadcast. do.

Next, in step S344, the viewing history management device 2 of the smartphone C stops updating the viewing history management database related to the content ID based on the end of viewing history registration received in step S343. Further, the viewing history management device 2 of the smartphone C transmits a message of the completion of viewing history registration to the state management unit 17 of the receiving device 1 of the TV-B.

The above-mentioned series of processes from steps S331 to S244 corresponds to the second content viewing in the operation example of the present embodiment. In this example, the content "xxx003" was not viewed for 10 minutes from the relative time of 30 minutes to 40 minutes. The viewer is concerned about the content content, decides to view the same content again, and activates the smartphone C for that purpose.

[Processing procedure 3: Third viewing]
Next, moving to FIG. 29, in step S351, the viewer device 3C of the smartphone C instructs the receiving device 1 of the smartphone C to start viewing the content of the content ID “xxx003”.

Next, in step S352, the content information acquisition unit 12 of the receiving device 1 of the smartphone C transmits a content information request to the distribution device 7 based on the instruction in step S351.

Next, in step S353, the content management unit 71 of the distribution device 7 transmits the content information to the receiving device 1 of the smartphone C based on the request from the receiving device 1 of the smartphone C. This content information will be described later with reference to FIG. 31.

Next, in step S354, the viewing history acquisition unit 13 of the receiving device 1 of the smartphone C requests the viewing history from the viewing history management device 2 in the smartphone C. At this point, the viewing history management device 2 of the smartphone C has accumulated a history of the content ID "xxx003" based on the results of the first and second viewings described above.

Next, in step S355, the viewing history management device 2 of the smartphone C responds to the request for viewing history in step S354. That is, the viewing history management device 2 transmits the viewing history on TV-A and the viewing history on TV-B for the content ID "xxx003" to the viewing history acquisition unit 13 of the receiving device 1 of the smartphone C. The viewing history acquisition unit 13 of the smartphone C acquires the viewing history of the content performed using TV-A and TV-B.

Next, in step S356, the reproduction method determination unit 11 of the receiving device 1 of the smartphone C describes the reproduction method based on the content information obtained in step S353 and the viewing history obtained in step S355. Present information to the viewer. Specifically, the reproduction method determination unit 11 of the receiving device 1 of the smartphone C transfers the content of the content ID "xxx003" by video-on-demand (URL is https: // jjjjj) from the middle (first). It is presented that the video can be viewed from a playback position (relative position, 30 minutes position) that is not included in the second viewing or the second viewing. The playback method determination unit 11 indicates that the video is transmitted by communication. The option of playing from the beginning on demand (URL is https: // jjjjj) may be presented at the same time. The playback method determination unit 11 of the receiving device 1 of the smartphone C corresponds to the display on this screen. Waiting for an instruction from the viewer device 3C. In the process of this step, the acquired viewing history includes a record with a viewing start time of 0 (minutes) and a viewing time of 30 (minutes) and a viewing start time of 40 (minutes). It also has a record with a viewing time of 140 (minutes) (see also FIG. 34). From this viewing history information, the playback method determining unit 11 has not watched for 10 minutes from the viewing start time 30 (minutes). Is easily required.

That is, here, the reproduction method determining unit 11 presents the reproduction of the content at the position which has not been viewed yet, based on the information of the start position and the end position of the reproduction included in the viewing history.

In this example, next, in step S357, the viewer device 3C is concerned from the point of the viewing start position 30 (minutes) by video on demand (URL is https: // jjjjj) based on the operation of the viewer. A signal for viewing the content is transmitted to the receiving device 1 of the smartphone C. According to this instruction, the reproduction method determination unit 11 of the reception device 1 of the smartphone C determines to receive and reproduce the content at the viewing start time “30” (minutes) on video on demand.

Next, in step S358, the receiving device 1 of the smartphone C requests the distribution device 7 to distribute the on-demand content by communication. At this time, the receiving device 1 transmits the content acquisition request. The viewing start time (relative time) specified here is "30" (unit is minutes).

Next, in step S359, the distribution device 7 returns the on-demand content by communication to the receiving device 1 of the smartphone C.

Next, in step S360, the communication receiving unit 14 of the receiving device 1 of the smartphone C starts receiving the on-demand content from the continuous playback position. Further, the content presenting unit 16 of the receiving device 1 of the smartphone C starts presenting the received content.

After starting the reproduction of the content by communication, in step S361, step S362, step S363, ..., The state management unit 17 of the receiving device 1 of the smartphone C registers the viewing history in the viewing history management device 2 of the smartphone C. While the content is being received and played back, the state management unit 17 of the smartphone C grasps the state and repeatedly updates the viewing history. As a result, the viewing history of the content is registered in the viewing history management device 2 of the smartphone C. As the content playback process progresses, the recorded viewing time value gradually increases.

When 10 minutes have passed from the start of the third viewing, the reproduction of the section that the viewer has not yet viewed ends. In this example, at that point, the viewer decides to stop the reproduction and operates the viewer device 3C.

Next, moving to FIG. 30, in step S371, the viewer device 3C transmits a stop request signal to the receiving device 1 of the smartphone C.

Next, in step S372, the distribution device 7 notifies the receiving device 1 of the smartphone C of the end of the on-demand content. As a result, the receiving device 1 of the smartphone C stops receiving and playing the content.

Next, in step S373, the state management unit 17 of the receiving device 1 of the smartphone C transmits the viewing history registration completion to the viewing history management device 2 of the smartphone C.

Next, in step S374, the viewing history management device 2 of the smartphone C stops updating the viewing history management database related to the content ID based on the end of viewing history registration received in step S373. Further, the viewing history management device 2 of the smartphone C returns a message of the completion of viewing history registration to the state management unit 17 of the receiving device 1 of the smartphone C.

The above-mentioned series of processes from steps S351 to S374 corresponds to the third content viewing in the operation example of the present embodiment.

FIG. 31 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration of content information held by the content management unit 71 of the distribution device 7 and an example thereof in the above processing procedure example. The data items of the content information have already been described with reference to FIG. As shown in the figure, the content information held by the content management unit 71 includes the content ID of "xxx003". The content of the content information is as follows.

In FIG. 31, the content name corresponding to the content ID “xxx003” is “baseball broadcast Tokyo vs Taipei”. The content length is "180" (minutes). Further, as a distribution method, "broadcasting", "live streaming", and "VOD" are registered. When the delivery method is "broadcast", the URL is "arib: // hhhh". When the delivery method is "live streaming", the URL is "https: // iiiiii". When the delivery method is "VOD", the URL is "https://jjjjj". Further, for all the distribution methods, "2020/10/03 18:00:00" is registered as the distribution start date and time. Also in this embodiment, the content information can centrally manage a plurality of distribution methods for a single content.

32, 33, 34, and 35 are schematic views showing the transition of the viewing history held by the viewing history management device 2 in the processing procedure described with reference to FIGS. 26 to 30. The data items included in the viewing history are as described above with reference to FIG. 7 and the like.

FIG. 32 is a schematic diagram showing the state of the viewing history management database 22 before the first viewing in the processing procedure is started (more specifically, before the viewing history is registered in step S308). be. As shown in the figure, at this stage, the viewing history management database 22 does not have a viewing history record for the content ID “xxx003”.

FIG. 33 is a schematic diagram showing the state of the viewing history management database 22 at the time when the first viewing in the processing procedure is completed (specifically, when the processing in step S323 is completed). As shown in the figure, at this stage, the viewing history management database 22 has one viewing history record for the content ID “xxx003”. Regarding the record, the registration date and time is "2020/10/03 18:30:00". The content ID is "xxx003". The URL is "arib: // hhhh". The viewing start time (relative time) is 0 (minutes). The viewing time is 30 (minutes). That is, this record indicates that the first viewing of the content was a viewing by broadcasting, and the viewing was for 30 minutes from the first position of the content.

FIG. 34 is a schematic diagram showing the state of the viewing history management database 22 at the time when the second viewing in the processing procedure is completed (specifically, when the processing in step S344 is completed). As shown in the figure, at this stage, the viewing history management database 22 has two viewing history records for the content ID “xxx003”. One of them is the record described in FIG. 33. Regarding the other one record, the registration date and time is "2020/10/03 21:00:00". The content ID is "xxx003". The URL is "arib: // hhhh". The viewing start time (relative time) is 40 (minutes). The viewing time is 140 (minutes). That is, this record indicates that the second viewing of the content was viewing by broadcasting, and the content was viewed for 140 minutes from the position of the relative time of 40 minutes. The registration date and time of this record, "21:00:00", is the time when the distribution of the content by broadcasting ends.

As described in the processing procedure, the receiving device 1 acquires and refers to the viewing history of FIG. 34, so that the content has not been viewed for 10 minutes from the relative time of 30 minutes to 40 minutes. I can grasp it.

FIG. 35 is a schematic diagram showing the state of the viewing history management database 22 at the time when the third viewing in the processing procedure is completed (specifically, when the processing in step S374 is completed). As shown in the figure, at this stage, the viewing history management database 22 has three viewing history records for the content ID “xxx003”. Two of them are the records described in FIGS. 33 and 34. Regarding the other one record, the registration date and time is "2020/10/03 21:10: 00". The content ID is "xxx003". The URL is "https://jjjjj". The viewing start time (relative time) is 30 (minutes). The viewing time is 10 (minutes). That is, this record indicates that the third viewing of the content was viewing by VOD, and the content was viewed for 10 minutes from the position of the relative time of 30 minutes. Further, from the viewing history, it can be seen that the third viewing was 10 minutes from 21:00, immediately after the end of the broadcast.

As described above, in the fourth embodiment, one smartphone has a viewing history management device 2, and not only the receiving device 1 of the smartphone but also the viewing history of the other two television receiving devices 1. I tried to manage it. As a result, the television receiving device 1 registers the viewing history or refers to the past viewing history and depends on the viewing history without the television having the function of the viewing history management device 2. It becomes possible to perform reproduction.

[Modification 1 of the fourth embodiment]
In the fourth embodiment, a system composed of one smartphone and two televisions has been described. As a modification, the number of televisions is not limited to two, and may be one or three or more.

[Modification 2 of the fourth embodiment]
The smartphone may not have the receiving device 1. However, even in that case, the smartphone is provided with the function of the viewing history management device 2.

FIG. 36 is a block diagram showing an example of the internal configuration of the receiving device, the viewing history management device, and the distribution device in each of the embodiments described above. The viewer device can also be realized by using the configuration shown in FIG. 36. As shown, each device can be implemented using a computer. The computer includes a central processing unit 901, a RAM 902, an input / output port 903, input / output devices 904 and 905, and a bus 906. The computer itself can be realized using existing technology. The central processing unit 901 executes an instruction included in a program read from RAM 902 or the like. The central processing unit 901 writes data to RAM 902, reads data from RAM 902, and performs arithmetic operations and logical operations according to each instruction. The RAM 902 stores data and programs. Each element contained in the RAM 902 has an address and can be accessed using the address. RAM is an abbreviation for "random access memory". The input / output port 903 is a port for the central processing unit 901 to exchange data with an external input / output device or the like. The input / output devices 904 and 905 are input / output devices. The input / output devices 904 and 905 exchange data with the central processing unit 901 via the input / output ports 903. Bus 906 is a common communication path used inside a computer. For example, the central processing unit 901 reads and writes data in the RAM 902 via the bus 906. Further, for example, the central processing unit 901 accesses the input / output port via the bus 906.

It should be noted that at least a part of the functions of the receiving device, the viewing history management device, the distribution device, and the viewer device in the above-described embodiment can be realized by the computer. In that case, a program for realizing this function may be recorded on a computer-readable recording medium, and the program recorded on the recording medium may be read by a computer system and executed. The term "computer system" as used herein includes hardware such as an OS and peripheral devices. The "computer-readable recording medium" is a portable medium such as a flexible disk, a magneto-optical disk, a ROM, a CD-ROM, a DVD-ROM, or a USB memory, or a storage device such as a hard disk built in a computer system. Say that. That is, the "computer-readable recording medium" may be a non-transitory computer-readable recording medium. Furthermore, a "computer-readable recording medium" is a device that temporarily and dynamically holds a program, such as a communication line when a program is transmitted via a network such as the Internet or a communication line such as a telephone line. In that case, it may include a program that holds a program for a certain period of time, such as a volatile memory inside a computer system that is a server or a client. Further, the above-mentioned program may be for realizing a part of the above-mentioned functions, and may be further realized for realizing the above-mentioned functions in combination with a program already recorded in the computer system.

Although the embodiments (including modifications) of the present invention have been described in detail with reference to the drawings, the specific configuration is not limited to this embodiment and does not deviate from the gist of the present invention. Design etc. are also included.

The present invention can be used, for example, as a system for a viewer to view content. However, the scope of use of the present invention is not limited to those exemplified here.

1 Receiver 2 Viewing history management device 3 Viewer device 7 Distribution device 9 Communication network 10 System 11 Playback method determination unit 12 Content information acquisition unit 13 Viewing history acquisition unit 14 Communication reception unit 15 Broadcast reception unit 16 Content presentation unit 17 Status management Section 21 Interface section 22 Viewing history management database 51, 52, 53, 54, 55 TV 56 Smartphone 71 Content management section 76 Distribution method determination section 77 Communication distribution section 78 Broadcast distribution section 901 Central processing device 902 RAM
903 I / O ports 904,905 I / O devices 906 buses

Claims (7)

A content information acquisition unit that acquires content information that includes multiple distribution methods for one content,
A viewing history acquisition unit that acquires the viewing history of the content, and
A reproduction method determination unit that determines a distribution method included in the content information acquired by the content information acquisition unit and a reproduction method based on the viewing history acquired by the viewing history acquisition unit.
A content presentation unit that presents received content using the distribution method and the reproduction method determined by the reproduction method determination unit, and a content presentation unit.
A receiver equipped with. A state management unit that registers a viewing history based on a situation in which the content presenting unit presents the content in the viewing history management device.
Further prepare
The viewing history acquisition unit acquires the viewing history from the viewing history management device.
The receiving device according to claim 1. The viewing history includes information about the end position of the reproduction when the content is reproduced.
As at least a part of the reproduction method, the reproduction method determining unit determines a start position at the time of new reproduction based on the information of the end position included in the acquired viewing history.
The receiving device according to claim 1 or 2. The viewing history further includes information about a playback start position when the content is played.
The reproduction method determining unit presents reproduction of the content at a position that has not yet been viewed, based on the information of the start position and the end position of the reproduction included in the viewing history.
The receiving device according to claim 3. A viewing history management database that stores a viewing history including at least a content ID for identifying the content, a distribution method when the content is viewed, and information about an end position of playback when the content is viewed, and a viewing history management database.
When the request for registration of the viewing history is received from the receiving device, the viewing history is written in the viewing history management database, and when the request for acquisition of the viewing history is received from the receiving device, the viewing history management database is used. An interface unit that transmits the read viewing history to the receiving device, and
A viewing history management device equipped with. A content information acquisition unit that acquires content information that includes multiple distribution methods for one content,
A viewing history acquisition unit that acquires the viewing history of the content, and
A reproduction method determination unit that determines a distribution method included in the content information acquired by the content information acquisition unit and a reproduction method based on the viewing history acquired by the viewing history acquisition unit.
A content presentation unit that presents received content using the distribution method and the reproduction method determined by the reproduction method determination unit, and a content presentation unit.
A program for operating a computer as a receiver, equipped with. A viewing history management database that stores a viewing history including at least a content ID for identifying the content, a distribution method when the content is viewed, and information about an end position of playback when the content is viewed, and a viewing history management database.
When the request for registration of the viewing history is received from the receiving device, the viewing history is written in the viewing history management database, and when the request for acquisition of the viewing history is received from the receiving device, the viewing history management database is used. An interface unit that transmits the read viewing history to the receiving device, and
A program for operating a computer as a viewing history management device.

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