JP6646558B2 - Delivery system - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a system for distributing content.

  In a PON (Passive Optical Network) system, there is a PON multicast system as a delivery system for efficiently delivering video (for example, Non-Patent Document 1 and Non-Patent Document 2). FIG. 11 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of a video distribution communication system 901 that distributes video content using a PON in an access section.

  In FIG. 11, a video distribution communication system 901 includes an upper interface 912 (hereinafter, referred to as “SNI”), which is an interface between an external distributor and a telecommunications carrier, and a lower interface (hereinafter, “SNI”), which is an interface on the user side. UNI 924). The delivery company performs content delivery using the delivery company server 911.

  In a relay section between the SNI 912 and the OLT (Optical Line Terminal: OLT) 920, data is transferred via a network including the communication device 914. As the communication device 914, for example, a transmission device, a switch, a router, or the like is used.

  In an access section from the OLT 920 to the ONU (Optical Network Unit: Optical Network Unit) 922a, 922b, 922c,..., The data is transmitted by an optical fiber 926 using a passive optical network (PON) connected via an optical splitter. Is transferred.

  In the access section (between the OLT and the ONU), for example, a content such as a video is broadcast using a broadcast logical link. Each of the ONUs 922a, 922b, 922c,... Includes a filter 923a, 923b, 923c,. The filters 923a, 923b, 923c,... Determine the operation of transmitting / discarding the broadcasted signal to the UNI 924.

  Under the UNI 924, the user views and listens to the broadcast signals received by the home devices 925a, 925b, 925c,... Such as gateways (GWs) and set-top boxes (STBs) provided by the distributors to the users. The selected video channel signal is transferred to an image receiving device (not shown) such as a television.

  As described above, in this example, the video distribution communication system 901 has the SNI 912 that is an interface with the external device of the distribution company and the UNI 924 that is the interface with the user device. Content such as video is broadcast-distributed using a part of the communication band between the SNI and the UNI. In a relay section from the SNI 912 to the OLT 920, a signal input from the SNI 912 is transferred to the OLT 920 by a communication device 914 such as a transmission device, a switch, or a router installed in the section. At this time, the broadcast type content such as a video input from the SNI 912 is set and registered in the communication device 914 so that data is always transferred to the communication device 914 and the OLT 920 under a specific control. Broadcast distribution in the section up to the OLT 920 can be realized.

  On the other hand, in the access section (between the OLT and the ONU), broadcast distribution is performed using, for example, a logical link for broadcast. In this method, among the signals input to the OLT 920, the signal transmitted by the broadcast logical link is received by all the ONUs 922a, 922b, 922c,. The ONUs 922a, 922b, 922c, ... have filters 923a, 923b, 923c, ... that determine the transmission / discard operation of these signals to the UNI 924. For example, as shown in FIG. 1 of Non-Patent Document 1, a viewing request from a home device 925a, 925b, 925c,... Under the ONU such as an STB (set-top box) is received by ONUs 922a, 922b, 922c,. For example, a method of controlling the operation of the filters 923a, 923b, 923c,... Using an OAM (Operation, Administration, and Maintenance) frame can be considered. Here, similarly, if the OLT 920 is set and registered in the ONUs 922a, 922b, 922c,... So that a predetermined signal is transmitted through a filter from the OLT 920, broadcast distribution is performed in the access section from the OLT 920 to the UNI 924. Will be possible.

  Under the UNI 924, an in-home device such as a gateway (GW) or STB provided from the distribution company to the user selects a signal of a video channel being viewed by the user from among the received broadcast signals, and selects a television or the like. To the image receiving device. Thereby, in a video distribution communication system using a PON in an access section, broadcast-type distribution of video content and the like is possible.

Masakazu Miyamoto, Shinya Kono, Kiyoshi Hayase, Akihiro Otaka, "A Proposal on Multicast Distribution Method in E-PON", IEICE General Conference 2010, B-6-124, March 2010 Masakazu Miyamoto and Hiroaki Sato, "Research on IP Multicast Distribution Control Method for Multi-branch E-PON Access with High-Speed Zapping Performance", IEICE Technical Report NS2011-254, March 2012

  In the communication system 901 for video distribution as shown in FIG. 11, a broadcast distribution setting of a predetermined signal to the communication device 914, the OLT 920, the ONUs 922a, 922b, 922c,. The broadcast distribution from the SNI 912 to the UNI 924 is realized by registering the operation setting. In registering these settings, an operator is provided through a communication carrier operation management interface (hereinafter, referred to as “operation management IF”) 928 and 929 that can be used only by the communication carrier that operates the video distribution communication system. It is conceivable to perform registration work or registration work from an operation system possessed by a communication carrier.

  On the other hand, a distribution service such as video content using the video distribution communication system 901 is considered to be provided by a plurality of distributors, and these distributors each provide a content type to be distributed and an area of a distribution destination. It is conceivable that requirements such as are various. Furthermore, requirements such as the content type and the distribution destination may fluctuate with time.

  However, as described above, in a mode in which the communication carrier performs the work of registering the settings of the broadcast distribution setting and the filter operation, the communication carrier confirms requests from a plurality of distribution carriers each time, and the communication device . 914, OLT 920, ONUs 922a, 922b, 922c,... Require a process of registering predetermined settings, and there is a problem that responsiveness to realization of a distribution service is poor. Such a problem is not a problem limited to video distribution, but a problem common to general distribution of content data.

  In view of the above circumstances, an object of the present invention is to provide a technology that enables a distribution company to register settings according to the requirements of various distribution services by themselves without the work of a communication carrier. I have.

  One aspect of the present invention is a distribution system for distributing content data from a distribution company server to a home device, wherein an upper interface for inputting content data from the distribution company server, and content data from the upper interface , A relay section for transferring content data to an accommodation station apparatus via a network including a communication apparatus, an access section for transferring content data between the accommodation station apparatus and a user home apparatus, and content transmitted through the user home apparatus. A lower interface that outputs data to a home device of a desired user; and in a relay section between the upper interface and the accommodation station apparatus, a communication apparatus installed in the relay section, a predetermined accommodation station apparatus. An operation of distributing a predetermined signal to a subordinate communication device including In the access section between the home device and the home device, all the users subordinate to the home device are configured using a passive optical network in which the home device and a plurality of user home devices are connected via an optical splitter. Performing an operation of delivering a predetermined signal to the home device, the user home device is configured to perform a filter operation for controlling whether to transfer the predetermined signal to a lower interface for each user home device. And a distribution company interface for setting a distribution system in the distribution company, and the distribution operation interface can set distribution operations of the communication device, the accommodation station device, and the user home device. It is a distribution system.

  One aspect of the present invention is the distribution system, wherein the interface for the distribution company controls distribution in the communication device in the relay section, and distributes the distribution to a distribution interface of the communication device in the relay section. Information of an identifier for identifying a predetermined signal and information for specifying a subordinate communication device and an accommodation station device serving as a distribution destination are input, and the communication device of the relay section has a distribution control included in the communication device. In the unit, based on the input information, while performing a setting to perform a distribution operation for the predetermined signal among the signals input to the communication device from a higher-level device, through the distribution operator interface, the distribution setting Notify completion and failure status.

  One aspect of the present invention is the distribution system described above, wherein the interface for the distribution company sets a distribution in the accommodation station device, and distributes the distribution to the distribution company interface of the accommodation station device. The information of the identifier for identifying the signal of the, and information specifying the subordinate user home device that is the destination of the distribution is input, the accommodation station device, in the distribution control unit in the accommodation station device, the input, Based on the received information, a setting is made to perform a distribution operation on the predetermined signal among the signals input from the higher-level device to the accommodation device, and the predetermined setting is performed on the user home device serving as a distribution destination. Transmitting an ONU filter control signal including information of an identifier for identifying the signal of the terminal, receiving the ONU filter control signal from the accommodating station device at the destination user home device, Together it is set to the filter transferring said predetermined signal to the lower interface, through the distributor's interface, complete delivery settings, and notifies the failure status.

  One aspect of the present invention is the distribution system described above, wherein the interface for the distribution company sets a distribution in the user home device and distributes the distribution to the interface for the distribution company of the user home device. The information of the identifier for identifying the signal of the input, the user home device, in the filter in the user home device, set to transfer the predetermined signal to a lower interface, and, to the accommodation station device The OLT distribution control signal including the information of the identifier is transmitted to the accommodation station device, and the accommodation station device receives the OLT distribution control signal, and a distribution control unit included in the accommodation station device transmits the OLT distribution control signal from the host device to the accommodation station. Among the signals input to the device, while performing the setting to perform the distribution operation for the predetermined signal, through the interface for the distribution company, The completion of the signal set, to notify the failure of status.

  One aspect of the present invention is the distribution system described above, further comprising a network operator operation system for authentication, wherein the network operator operation system authenticates an operator using the interface for the distributor. The distribution operator has an API use permission list including information, and inputs the operator identifier when inputting to the interface for the distributor, and queries the network operator operation system for the operator identifier. , The network operator operation system refers to the received operator identifier and the API use permission list, performs inquiries regarding the authentication and use of the operator, and executes the communication device, the accommodation device, and , An authentication result is returned to the user home device, and the communication device, the accommodation device, The user home device checks the authentication result from the network operator operation system, and only when the authentication result is a predetermined authentication result, registers the distribution operation, the setting of the filter operation of the user home device, and checks I do.

  One aspect of the present invention is the above-described distribution system, wherein the API use permission list can set different authorization levels for a plurality of distribution companies, and the communication device, the accommodation station device, Upon inquiring from the user home device, an authentication result is returned after including the information of the approval level in the approval result, and the communication device, the accommodation station device, and the user home device receive from the operation system. In accordance with the authorization level information included in the authentication result to be performed, the distribution operation, the setting of the filter operation of the user home device are registered, and the confirmation is performed.

  According to the present invention, it is possible for a distribution company to register settings according to requirements of various distribution services by himself without going through the work of a communication company.

It is a block diagram showing the outline of the communication system for video distribution concerning a 1st embodiment of the present invention. 4 shows a communication system for video distribution according to a modification of the first embodiment of the present invention. It is a block diagram showing the outline of the communication system for video distribution concerning a 2nd embodiment of the present invention. 14 shows a communication system for video distribution according to a modification of the second embodiment of the present invention. It is a block diagram showing the outline of the communication system for video distribution concerning a 3rd embodiment of the present invention. 14 shows a communication system for video distribution according to a modification of the third embodiment of the present invention. It is a block diagram showing the outline of the communication system for video distribution concerning a 4th embodiment of the present invention. It is a block diagram showing the outline of the communication system for video distribution concerning a 5th embodiment of the present invention. It is a block diagram showing the outline of the communication system for video distribution concerning a 6th embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a specific example of an API use permission list. FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of a conventional video distribution communication system that performs video content distribution using a PON in an access section.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
<First embodiment>
FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an outline of a communication system for video distribution according to the first embodiment of the present invention. The video distribution communication system is a specific example of the distribution system in the present invention. In a video distribution communication system, video data is distributed as a specific example of content data. However, the content data need not be limited to video data, but may be any content data such as audio data. As shown in FIG. 1, a video distribution communication system 1 according to the present embodiment is a video distribution communication system that distributes content such as video, and is an upper layer that is an interface between an external distribution company and a communication company. It has an interface 12 (hereinafter referred to as “SNI”) and a lower interface (hereinafter referred to as “UNI”) 24 which is an interface on the user side.

  The distribution company server 11 is a distribution server for video content operated by the distribution company. Video content from the distribution company server 11 is input to the network including the communication device 14 via the SNI 12.

  In a relay section between the SNI 12 and the OLT (Optical Line Terminal: OLT) 20, data is transferred via a network including the communication device 14. As the communication device 14, for example, a transmission device, a switch, a router, or the like is used. The communication device 14 includes a distribution control unit 15, and performs setting for broadcasting distribution of a predetermined signal among the signals input from the SNI and the higher-level device to the subordinate communication device 14 and the OLT 20.

  In the access section from the OLT 20 to the ONUs (User Network Equipment ONUs: Optical Network Units) 22a, 22b, 22c,..., Data is transmitted through the optical fiber 26 using a PON (Passive Optical Network) connected via an optical splitter. Will be transferred. As the PON system used in the access section, for example, a system based on the IEEE standard such as GE-PON or 10G-EPON or a system based on the ITU-T standard such as G-PON or XG-PON can be considered.

  In the access section (between the OLT and the ONU), for example, a content such as a video is broadcast using a broadcast logical link. The OLT 20 includes a distribution control unit 21, and broadcasts a predetermined signal among the signals input from the upper communication device 14 to all the ONUs 22a, 22b, 22c,.

  Each of the ONUs 22a, 22b, 22c,... Includes a filter 23a, 23b, 23c,. The filters 23a, 23b, 23c,... Determine the transmission / discard operation of the signal broadcasted from the OLT 20 to the UNI 24 under the control of the OLT 20 or under the control of the ONUs 22a, 22b, 22c,.

  The UNI 24 serves as an interface for outputting the video contents sent from the ONUs 22a, 22b, 22c,... To the home devices 25a, 25b, 25c, 25d,. Under the UNI 24, the user views and listens to broadcast signals received by home devices 25a, 25b, 25c,... Such as gateways (GWs) and set-top boxes (STBs) provided by the distributor to the users. The selected video channel signal is transferred to an image receiving device (not shown) such as a television.

  The identifier of the signal to be set for the broadcast distribution setting and the filter operation setting includes the Ethernet (registered trademark) MAC address and VLAN-ID, and the IP address (for example, the multicast source address and destination group address (S , G)) and LLID (Logical Link ID). Further, not only a single identifier but also a combination of a plurality of identifiers can be considered. The unit of the content corresponding to these identifiers may be each video channel unit, a distributor or a content group including a plurality of channels. In addition, it may be made to correspond to an area where a certain content group is distributed.

  The communication carrier operation management interface (hereinafter, referred to as “operation management IF”) 28 is an interface for setting a relay section (between the SNI and the OLT). The operation management IF 29 is an interface for setting the OLT 20. These operation management IFs 28 and 29 can be used only by a communication carrier that operates the video distribution communication system.

  In the first embodiment of the present invention, a distributor interface (hereinafter, referred to as “API”) 30 for setting the communication device 14 and confirming the setting contents, and confirming the setting and the setting contents of the OLT 20 are performed. , And an API 32 for setting ONUs 22a, 22b, 22c,... And confirming the set contents. The input and output paths of these APIs 30, 31, and 32 may be those via a network for transferring main signals such as video contents (in-band), or closed networks such as the Internet and VPN (Virtual Private Network). It may be through a network different from the main signal network (out-band). For example, an API input / output signal is converted to a video signal from the distribution company server 11 that transmits video content or the like to the API 30, 31, or 32 via a relay section (between the SNI and OLT) or an access section (between the OLT and ONU). It is conceivable that transmission and reception are multiplexed on a time axis or the like.

  FIG. 2 shows a video distribution communication system 1a according to a modification of the first embodiment of the present invention. In the example of FIG. 1, the settings of the APIs 30, 31, and 32 are performed on the distribution company server 11 side. On the other hand, in this example, as shown in FIG. 2, a distribution company operation system 35 is provided in which the distribution company manages equipment information, user information, and the like, separately from the distribution company server 11. Then, a network 36 different from a main signal network such as a closed network such as the Internet or a VPN is provided between the delivery company operation system 35 and the APIs 30 and 31, and the delivery company operation system 35 sends the APIs 30, 31 and 32. , Via the network 36. Also, it is conceivable that the distribution provider API 32 of the ONUs 22a, 22b, 22c,... Communicates with the home devices 25a, 25b, 25c,. As a method of the distributor API, an operation management protocol such as extended OAM, a Web-based method such as REST (Representational State Transfer) may be used, or an original protocol may be used.

<Second embodiment>
Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an outline of a communication system 101 for video distribution according to the second embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 3, the distribution company server 111, SNI 112, communication device 114, distribution control unit 115, OLT 120, ONUs 122a, 122b, 122c, ..., filters 123a, 123b, 123c, ..., UNI 124, home devices 125a, 125b, 125c, .., The optical fiber 126, the operation management IFs 128, 129 are the distribution company server 11, SNI 12, communication device 14, distribution control unit 15, OLT 20, ONUs 22a, 22b, 22c,..., Filters 23a, 23b in the first embodiment. , 23c, ..., UNI 24, in-home devices 25a, 25b, 25c, ..., optical fiber 26, and operation management IFs 28, 29.

  In the present embodiment, an example is shown in which the distribution company accesses the distribution company API 130 of the communication device 114 from the distribution company server 111 that transmits video content and the like, and sets the distribution control unit 115 of the communication device 114.

  The delivery company transmits and receives API input / output signals from a delivery company server 111 that transmits video content and the like, using a network that transfers signals such as video content. The API input / output signal is transferred on the same network after using a network interface different from the main signal of the video content or the like or multiplexed on the time axis or the wavelength axis using the same network interface.

  The API input / output signal includes information of an identifier for identifying a predetermined signal to be broadcast-distributed, and information for specifying the subordinate communication device 114 and the OLT 120 to be the destination of the broadcast distribution. The communication device 114 that has received the API input / output signal is a distribution control unit 115 included in the communication device 114. Based on the input information, a predetermined signal among the signals input to the communication device 114 from the higher-level device is output. Is set to perform a broadcast distribution operation to the subordinate communication device 114 and OLT 120 specified by the input information. At the same time, the communication device 114 that has received the API input / output signal notifies the distribution company server 111 of the status such as completion or failure of the distribution setting as an API output signal.

  FIG. 4 shows a communication system for video distribution 101a according to a modification of the second embodiment of the present invention. In the example of FIG. 3, an example is shown in which the distribution company accesses the API 130 from the distribution company server 111 that transmits video content and the like, and sets the distribution control unit 115 of the communication device 114. On the other hand, in the example illustrated in FIG. 4, the distributor accesses the API 130 from the distributor operation system (OpS) 135 that manages the facility information and the user information, and sets the distribution controller 115 of the communication device 114. An example is shown. The transmission and reception of the API input / output signals are performed from the distribution company operation system 135 using a network 136 such as the Internet or a VPN. This network 136 may be the same as the network that transfers the main signal such as video content, or may be a different network. The information included in the API input / output signal is the same as in the example shown in FIG.

<Third embodiment>
Next, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described. FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating an outline of a video distribution communication system 201 according to the third embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 5, the distribution company server 211, the SNI 212, the communication device 214, the OLT 220, the distribution control unit 221, the ONUs 222a, 222b, 222c,..., The filters 223a, 223b, 223c,. , The optical fiber 226, the operation management IFs 228, 229 are the distribution carrier server 11, the SNI 12, the communication device 14, the OLT 20, the distribution control unit 21, the ONUs 22a, 22b, 22c,..., The filters 23a, 23b in the first embodiment. , 23c, ..., UNI 24, in-home devices 25a, 25b, 25c, ..., optical fiber 26, and operation management IFs 28, 29.

  In this embodiment, the distribution company controls the broadcast distribution setting and the filter operation setting of the OLT 220 via the API 231 in the access section. In this example, an example is shown in which the distribution company accesses the API 231 of the OLT 220 from the distribution company server 211 that transmits video content and the like.

  The delivery company transmits and receives API input / output signals from the delivery company server 211 using a network that transfers signals such as video contents. The API input / output signal is transferred after using a network interface different from the main signal such as video content or multiplexing on the time axis or wavelength axis using the same network interface. The API input / output signal includes information of an identifier for identifying a predetermined signal to be broadcast-distributed, and information for specifying a subordinate ONU serving as a destination of the broadcast distribution.

  The OLT 220 that has received the API input / output signal is controlled by a distribution control unit 221 included in the OLT 220 in accordance with a predetermined signal among the signals input from the upper communication device 213 to the OLT 220 based on the input information. Of all ONUs 222a, 222b, 222c,... At the same time, the OLT 220 transmits an ONU filter control signal including information of an identifier for identifying a predetermined signal to the ONUs 222a, 222b, 222c,.

  The distribution destination ONUs 222a, 222b, 222c,... Receive the ONU filter control signal from the OLT 220, and set the filters 223a, 223b, 223c,. After completing the above setting, the OLT 220 notifies the distribution company server 211 of the status such as completion or failure of the distribution setting.

  FIG. 6 shows a video distribution communication system 201a according to a modification of the third embodiment of the present invention. In the example of FIG. 5, an example is shown in which the distributor accesses the API 231 of the OLT 220 from the distributor server 211 that transmits video content and the like. On the other hand, the example shown in FIG. 6 shows an example in which the distributor accesses the API 231 of the OLT 220 from the distributor operation system 235 that manages equipment information, user information, and the like. The transmission and reception of the API input / output signal is performed via the Internet or the VPN network 236. This network 236 may be the same as the network that transfers the main signal such as video content from the distribution company operation system 235, or may be a different network. The information included in the API input / output signal is the same as in the example shown in FIG.

<Fourth embodiment>
Next, a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described. FIG. 7 is a block diagram illustrating an outline of a video distribution communication system 301 according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 7, the distribution company server 311, SNI 312, communication device 314, OLT 320, distribution control unit 321, ONU 322a, 322b, 322c,..., Filters 323a, 323b, 323c,. , The optical fiber 326, the operation management IFs 328, 329 are the distribution company server 11, SNI 12, communication device 14, OLT 20, distribution control unit 21, ONUs 22a, 22b, 22c,..., Filters 23a, 23b in the first embodiment. , 23c, ..., UNI 24, in-home devices 25a, 25b, 25c, ..., optical fiber 26, and operation management IFs 28, 29.

  In this embodiment, the distribution company controls the broadcast distribution settings and the filter operation settings of the ONUs 322a, 322b, 322c,... In the access section via the API 332. In this example, access is made to an API 332 of the ONUs 322a, 322b, 322c,... From home devices 325a, 325b, 325c,. Is shown.

  The API input / output signals input from the in-home devices 325a, 325b, 325c, ... to the ONUs 322a, 322b, 322c, ... include identifier information for identifying predetermined signals to be broadcast-distributed. The ONUs 322a, 322b, 322c,... Which have received the API input / output signal are predetermined in the filters 323a, 323b, 323c,. Is set to be always transferred to the UNI 324 for the signal of Further, the ONUs 322a, 322b, 322c,... Having received the API input / output signal transmit an OLT distribution control signal including information of an identifier for identifying a predetermined signal to the OLT 320. Based on information included in the OLT distribution control signal, the OLT 320 sets a broadcast distribution operation for a predetermined signal among signals input from the higher-level communication device 314 to the OLT 320 in a distribution control unit 321 included in the OLT 320. I do. After the above settings are completed, the ONUs 322a, 322b, 322c,... Notify the home devices 325a, 325b, 325c,.

<Fifth embodiment>
Next, a fifth embodiment of the present invention will be described. FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing an outline of a communication system 401 for video distribution according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 8, the distribution company server 411, SNI 412, communication device 414, distribution control unit 415, OLT 420, distribution control unit 421, ONUs 422a, 422b, 422c,..., Filters 423a, 423b, 423c,. , 425b, 425c,..., Optical fiber 426, operation management IFs 428, 429, APIs 430, 431, 432 are the distribution company server 11, SNI 12, communication device 14, distribution control unit 15, OLT 20, distribution in the first embodiment. Control unit 21, ONUs 22a, 22b, 22c, ..., filters 23a, 23b, 23c, ..., UNI 24, in-home devices 25a, 25b, 25c, ..., optical fiber 26, operation management IFs 28, 29, APIs 30, 31, 32 are doing.

  In the present embodiment, an example is shown in which, when an access is made to the APIs 430, 431, and 432 from the distribution company server 411, the distribution company is authenticated and the API is authorized.

  In the present embodiment, a network operator operation system (OpS) 440 is provided. The network operator operation system 440 is an operation system of an operator (a communication operator) that operates a video distribution communication system using a PON. The network operator operation system 440 stores a list of the operators who use the API, information on identifiers (entrepreneur identifiers) for identifying the operators, and information on whether or not each operator can use the API (API use permission list 441). Have. As the provider identifier, an identifier used by the distribution provider in system cooperation with another provider may be used, or a unique identifier may be used.

  The distribution company transmits and receives API input / output signals from a distribution company server 411 that transmits video contents and the like, using a network that transfers signals such as video contents. The API input / output signal includes a provider identifier in addition to information of an identifier for identifying a predetermined signal to be broadcast-distributed, information for specifying a subordinate serving as a destination of the broadcast distribution.

  When the communication device 414, the OLT 420, and the ONUs 422a, 422b, 422c,... Receive an API input from the distribution company server 411 via the APIs 430, 431, and 432, the network operator changes the business entity identifier included in the API input / output signal. It is sent to the operation system 440 to make an inquiry.

  The network operator operation system 440 refers to the received operator identifier with reference to the API use permission list 441, and performs the authentication of the operator and the authorization process related to the API use. When the authentication is completed, the network operator operation system 440 returns an authentication result including the authentication result and the authorization result to the communication device 414, the OLT 420, and the ONUs 422a, 422b, 422c,.

  The communication device 414, the OLT 420, and the ONUs 422a, 422b, 422c,... Confirm the authentication result from the network operator operation system 440, and when the operator is successfully authenticated and the API use is approved. , Registration and confirmation of the setting of the broadcast distribution operation and the operation of the ONU filters 423a, 423b, 423c,...

  In this example, the network operator operation system 440 has information necessary for the authentication of the operator in advance, and the operation of performing authentication and authorization only by the network operator operation system 440 has been described. Information is stored in a third party system, and the network operator operation system 440 receives the inquiry from the communication device 414, the OLT 420, and the ONUs 422a, 422b, 422c,. It may be a method of distributing to the system of the third party organization and receiving the result of authentication performed by the system of the third party organization.

  Further, in this example, an example is shown in which the distribution company server 411 accesses the APIs 430, API431, and API432 of the communication devices 414, the OLT 420, and the ONUs 422a, 422b, 422c,. However, in the case of accessing the communication device in the relay section from the distribution company operation system or server, the case of accessing the OLT from the distribution company operation system, and the case of accessing the ONU from the home device, authentication and authorization are similarly performed. May be performed.

<Sixth embodiment>
Next, a sixth embodiment of the present invention will be described. FIG. 9 is a block diagram showing an outline of a communication system 501 for video distribution according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 9, distribution company servers 511a and 511b, SNI 512, communication device 514, distribution control unit 515, OLT 520, distribution control unit 521, ONUs 522a, 522b, 522c,..., Filters 523a, 523b, 523c,. , Optical fiber 526, operation management IFs 528, 529, APIs 530, 531, 532 are the distributor server 11, SNI 12, communication device 14, distribution control unit 15, OLT 20 in the first embodiment. , The distribution control unit 21, the ONUs 22a, 22b, 22c,..., The filters 23a, 23b, 23c,..., The UNI 24, the in-home devices 25a, 25b, 25c,. It corresponds to.

  In the present embodiment, it is assumed that a plurality of distributors access the APIs 530, 531, and 532, and different levels of authorization are given to the respective distributors.

  As shown in FIG. 9, in the present embodiment, two distribution company servers 511a and 511b are provided. The distribution business server 511a is a server of the business A, and the distribution business server 511b is a server of the business B. The distribution company servers 511a and 511b access the communication device 514, the OLT 520, and the APIs 530, API531, and API532 of the ONUs 522a, 522b, and 522c, respectively, via a network that transfers video contents and the like.

  As in the fifth embodiment, in this embodiment, a network operator operation system 540 is provided. The network operator operation system 540 has an API use permission list 541. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a specific example of the API use permission list 541. As shown in FIG. 10, different authorization levels are set for the provider A and the provider B in the API use permission list 541. In FIG. 10, the authorization level “1” is set for the operator A, and the authorization level “2” is set for the operator B.

  When the communication device 514, the OLT 520, and the ONUs 522a, 522b, 522c,... Receive an API input from the distribution company server 511a or 511b, the communication device 514 sends a business company identifier included in the API input / output signal to the network business operation system 540 for inquiry. I do.

  The network operator operation system 540 refers to the received operator identifier with reference to the API use permission list 541, and performs a process of authenticating the operator and performing authorization related to API use according to the authorization level. The network operator operation system 540 returns an authentication result including an authentication result and an authorization result to the communication device 514, the OLT 520, and the ONUs 522a, 522b, 522c,.

  The communication device 514, the OLT 520, and the ONUs 522a, 522b, 522c,... Confirm the authentication result from the network operator operation system 540, and the operator is successfully authenticated and the API use is authorized. , Registration and confirmation of the setting of the broadcast distribution operation and the operation of the ONU filters 523a, 523b, 523c,...

  In the present embodiment, API usage conditions and restrictions on broadcast distribution settings differ depending on the authorization level. As the setting according to the authorization level, for example, regarding the API use condition, the period during which the API can be used, the number of times the API can be used within a predetermined period, the network type for transmitting and receiving the API input / output signal, and the API access are permitted. The types of the devices of the distribution service provider and the communication service provider, the area of the building where these devices are installed, and the like are listed. The broadcast distribution setting includes, as shown in FIG. 10, a band, the number of video channels to be distributed, the number of communication devices at the distribution destination, the number of OLTs, the number of ONUs, and the like. Further, it is conceivable to add a restriction on the protocol of a signal to be broadcast-distributed, for example, while the authorization level “1” corresponds to both the IPv6 protocol and the IPv4 protocol, but the authorization level “2” is only the IPv4 protocol.

  FIG. 9 shows an example in which the OLT API is accessed via a network for transferring video contents and the like from the distribution company servers 511a and 511b. In the case of accessing, the OLT from the distribution company's OpS, and the access to the ONU from the home device, authentication and authorization corresponding to the authorization level may be performed in the same manner.

<Still another embodiment>
In the above-described embodiment, a case has been described in which the distribution company performs the operation setting and confirmation for the broadcast distribution for performing the constant distribution to the predetermined distribution destination via the API. The operation setting and confirmation may be similarly performed for unicast distribution or multicast distribution in which distribution is triggered by a viewing request from a subordinate device in the communication system for communication.

  For example, in the third embodiment illustrated in FIG. 5, when the distributor performs the setting registration via the API 231 of the OLT 220, in the above description, the OLT 220 transmits to all the ONUs 222a, 222b, 222c,. The settings for operating broadcast distribution are set.

  On the other hand, in this embodiment, the API input / output signal includes information of an identifier for identifying a predetermined signal to be unicast-distributed or multicast-distributed, and ONUs 222a, 222b, 222c,... Are specified. The OLT 220 that has received the API input / output signal causes the distribution control unit 221 included in the OLT 220 to perform a unicast distribution operation or a multicast distribution operation on the destination ONUs 222a, 222b, 222c,... Based on the input information. Make settings. In this state, when the user views a video signal which is an image receiving device such as a television, a home device such as a gateway (GW) or an STB recognizes the viewing request and the video corresponding to the ONUs 222a, 222b, 222c,. The fact that the viewing request has been made is transmitted together with the signal identifier. The ONUs 222a, 222b, 222c,... Receiving this information transmit an OLT distribution control signal including information of a predetermined identifier to the OLT 220. At this time, if the distribution operation is a video signal that is multicast distribution, the filters 223a, 223b, 223c,... In the ONUs 222a, 222b, 222c,. Let it be set. The OLT 220 sends a signal corresponding to an identifier for which a viewing request has been made among predetermined signals to the ONUs 222a, 222b, 222c,... Under the control of the distribution control unit 221 included in the OLT 220 based on information included in the OLT distribution control signal. To deliver. At this time, if the setting of the distribution operation is unicast distribution, distribution is performed by a unicast logical link addressed to the corresponding ONU 222a, 222b, 222c,... In the PON section, and all ONUs 222a, 222b are distributed in the case of multicast distribution. , 222c,... Are distributed via a broadcast logical link.

  As described above, according to the embodiment of the present invention, in a video distribution communication system using a PON in an access section, a broadcaster can set a broadcast distribution setting and a filter operation to a communication device, an OLT, and an ONU. Is provided with a distributor interface (API) that allows direct registration of the distribution service, so that the distribution provider can register settings according to the requirements of various distribution services without the intervention of the carrier. Delivery service can be realized quickly.

All or some of the functions of the video distribution communication systems 1, 101, 201, 301, 401, and 501 in the above-described embodiments may be realized by a computer. In that case, a program for realizing this function may be recorded on a computer-readable recording medium, and the program recorded on this recording medium may be read and executed by a computer system. Here, the “computer system” includes an OS and hardware such as peripheral devices. The “computer-readable recording medium” refers to a portable medium such as a flexible disk, a magneto-optical disk, a ROM, and a CD-ROM, and a storage device such as a hard disk built in a computer system. Further, a "computer-readable recording medium" refers to a communication line for transmitting a program via a network such as the Internet or a communication line such as a telephone line, and dynamically holds the program for a short time. Such a program may include a program that holds a program for a certain period of time, such as a volatile memory in a computer system serving as a server or a client in that case. The program may be for realizing a part of the functions described above, or may be a program that can realize the functions described above in combination with a program already recorded in a computer system. It may be realized using a programmable logic device such as an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array).
As described above, the embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail with reference to the drawings. However, the specific configuration is not limited to the embodiments and includes a design and the like within a range not departing from the gist of the present invention.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Communication system for image distribution, 11 ... Distribution company server, 12 ... SNI, 14 ... Communication device, 15 ... Distribution control unit, 20 ... OLT, 21 ... Distribution control unit, 22a-22c ... ONU, 23a-23c ... Filters, 25a to 25c: home devices, 30, 31, 32: API

Claims (6)

A delivery system for delivering content data from a delivery company server to a home device,
An upper interface for inputting content data from the distribution company server;
A relay section for transferring the content data from the higher-level interface to an accommodation device via a network including a communication device;
An access section for transferring content data between the accommodation station device and the user home device;
A lower interface that outputs the content data passed through the user home device to a home device of a desired user,
In a relay section between the upper interface and the accommodation device, an operation of distributing a predetermined signal to a communication device under the control including the predetermined accommodation device by a communication device installed in the relay section. Do
In an access section between the accommodating station device and the user home device, the accommodating station device and a plurality of user home devices are configured using a passive optical network connected via an optical splitter. Perform an operation of delivering a predetermined signal to all user home devices under the
The user home device is configured to perform a filter operation for controlling whether to transfer the predetermined signal to a lower interface for each user home device,
The communication device of the relay section comprises a distributor interface for setting of a distribution system in the distributor,
The interface for the distribution company, information of an identifier for identifying a predetermined signal to be distributed, and input information for specifying a communication device and an accommodating station device under the distribution destination,
The communication device in the relay section, in a distribution control unit included in the communication device, performs a distribution operation on the predetermined signal among signals input to the communication device from a higher-level device based on the input information. A distribution system that configures settings to be performed . Communication device before Symbol relay section through before Symbol distributor for the interface, the completion of the delivery settings, and notifies the failure of the status,
The distribution system according to claim 1. A delivery system for delivering content data from a delivery company server to a home device,
An upper interface for inputting content data from the distribution company server;
A relay section for transferring the content data from the higher-level interface to an accommodation device via a network including a communication device;
An access section for transferring content data between the accommodation station device and the user home device;
A lower interface for outputting the content data passed through the user home device to a home device of a desired user,
In a relay section between the higher-level interface and the accommodated station device, an operation of distributing a predetermined signal to a subordinate communication device including the specified accommodated station device by a communication device installed in the relay section. Do
In an access section between the accommodating station device and the user home device, the accommodating station device and a plurality of user home devices are configured using a passive optical network connected via an optical splitter. Perform an operation of delivering a predetermined signal to all user home devices under the
The user home device is configured to perform a filter operation for controlling whether to transfer the predetermined signal to a lower interface for each user home device,
The accommodation station device includes a distributor interface for setting the distribution system in the distributor,
The distributor interface inputs the identifier information for identifying a predetermined signal to be distributed, the information for identifying the user home apparatus under which the delivery destination,
The accommodating station apparatus, in a distribution control unit included in the accommodating station apparatus, performs a distribution operation on the predetermined signal among the signals input to the accommodating station apparatus from a higher-level apparatus based on the input information. While performing the setting to transmit, to the user home device serving as the destination of the distribution, transmitting an ONU filter control signal including information of an identifier for identifying the predetermined signal,
In the user home apparatus destination, receives the ONU filter control signal from the receiving station, Ru is configured to forward the predetermined signal in the filter in the user home apparatus in the lower interface
Delivery system. A delivery system for delivering content data from a delivery company server to a home device,
An upper interface for inputting content data from the distribution company server;
A relay section for transferring the content data from the higher-level interface to an accommodation device via a network including a communication device;
An access section for transferring content data between the accommodation station device and the user home device;
A lower interface that outputs the content data passed through the user home device to a home device of a desired user,
In a relay section between the higher-level interface and the accommodated station device, an operation of distributing a predetermined signal to a subordinate communication device including the specified accommodated station device by a communication device installed in the relay section. Do
In an access section between the accommodating station device and the user home device, the accommodating station device and a plurality of user home devices are configured using a passive optical network connected via an optical splitter. Perform an operation of delivering a predetermined signal to all user home devices under the
The user home device is configured to perform a filter operation for controlling whether to transfer the predetermined signal to a lower interface for each user home device,
The user home device includes a distributor interface for setting a distribution system in the distributor,
The distributor interface inputs the information identifier for identifying a predetermined signal to be distributed,
The user home device causes a filter in the user home device to set the predetermined signal to be transferred to a lower interface, and transmits an OLT distribution control signal including the identifier information to the accommodation station device. And
The accommodating station apparatus receives the OLT distribution control signal, and in a distribution control unit included in the accommodating station apparatus, distributes the predetermined signal among the signals input to the accommodating station apparatus from a higher-level apparatus. Ru to perform the set to operate
Delivery system. A delivery system for delivering content data from a delivery company server to a home device,
An upper interface for inputting content data from the distribution company server;
A relay section for transferring the content data from the higher-level interface to an accommodation device via a network including a communication device;
An access section for transferring content data between the accommodation station device and the user home device;
A lower interface for outputting the content data passed through the user home device to a home device of a desired user;
With a network operator operation system for authentication ,
In a relay section between the upper interface and the accommodation device, an operation of distributing a predetermined signal to a communication device under the control including the predetermined accommodation device by a communication device installed in the relay section. Do
In an access section between the accommodating station device and the user home device, the accommodating station device and a plurality of user home devices are configured using a passive optical network connected via an optical splitter. Perform an operation of delivering a predetermined signal to all user home devices under the
The user home device is configured to perform a filter operation for controlling whether to transfer the predetermined signal to a lower interface for each user home device,
At least one of the communication device of the relay section, the accommodating station device, and the user home device includes a distributor interface for setting a distribution system in a distributor,
The network operators operating system is the authentication information of businesses who use the interface for the distribution operators have the permission list for including interest,
The distributor interface inputs a provider identifier at the time of the setting ,
The communication device of the relay section provided with the interface for the distribution company, the accommodation station device, and the user's home device, refer to the network operator operation system by transmitting the business identifier to the network operator operation system,
The network operators operating system, referring to query the business identifier was received before the cut for the allowed list, performs a process of authorization for the use and authentication of business, the relay section that was before sending the article trader identifier The communication device, the accommodating station device, and, to the user home device, return an authentication result,
The communication device that has received the authentication result, the accommodating station device, and the user home device confirm the authentication result from the network operator operation system, and only when the predetermined authentication result, the setting is performed. Do
Delivery system. Before cut for permission list can be set to different authorization levels for a plurality of distribution enterprisers, the communication device of the repeater section, the receiving station apparatus, and, upon inquiry from the user home apparatus, Authorization Reply the authentication result including the level information,
The communication device that has received the authentication result, the accommodation device, and the user home device perform the setting according to the authorization level information included in the authentication result received from the network operator operation system,
The distribution system according to claim 5 .

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