JP7317088B2 - System, method and program for distributing live video - Google Patents

Description

Application of Patent Act Article 30, Paragraph 2 June 6, 2018 <Android version> https://play. google. com/store/apps/details? id=com. dena. pokota, <iOS version> https://itunes. apple. com/jp/app/id1175969205

The present invention relates to a system, method, and program for distributing live moving images.

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, in live video distribution services for distributing live video, various mechanisms have been introduced to promote distribution of live video by distributors. For example, Patent Document 1 below discloses that a distributor is set in a distribution standby state in response to a request from the distributor, and a user of the distributor is set in response to a request from a viewer for the distributor set in the distribution standby state. A system configured to initiate transmission of live video by a terminal is disclosed. In the system configured in this way, the distributor can start distributing the live video only when there are viewers by setting himself/herself in a distribution standby state. It can lower the psychological barriers to getting started and facilitate the delivery of live video.

JP 2019-022219 A

However, in the conventional live video distribution service, even if the live video continues to be distributed, the distributor acquires viewers who become his fans (for example, viewers who repeatedly watch his live video). It is not easy. In addition, a distributor who does not increase the number of fans even after continuing to distribute live videos may end the distribution of the live videos itself.

One object of the embodiments of the present invention is to support acquisition of fans by distributors of live video. Other objects of embodiments of the present invention will become apparent upon review of the specification as a whole.

A system according to one embodiment of the present invention is a system for distributing live video, comprising one or more computer processors, wherein the one or more computer processors, in response to execution of readable instructions, , a process of distributing a live video provided by a distributor to a plurality of viewers, and a process of giving a predetermined reward to the viewer during the distribution of the live video, wherein is given to the specific viewer based on at least the number of consecutive viewing days of the live video provided by the specific distributor during the distribution of the live video provided by the specific distributor. and providing the predetermined reward for.

A method according to an embodiment of the present invention is a method for distributing live video, executed by one or more computers, comprising the steps of distributing live video provided by a distributor to a plurality of viewers. and a step of giving a predetermined reward to the viewer during distribution of the live video, wherein the step of giving the predetermined reward comprises: during distribution of the live video provided by a specific distributor, Giving the specified reward to the specified viewer based at least on the number of consecutive viewing days of the live video provided by the specified distributor by the specified viewer.

A program according to one embodiment of the present invention is a program for distributing live video, and is provided by a distributor to the one or more computers in response to being executed on the one or more computers. A process of distributing a live video to a plurality of viewers, and a process of giving a predetermined reward to the viewer during the distribution of the live video, and the process of giving the predetermined reward , during the distribution of the live video provided by the specific distributor, based on at least the number of consecutive viewing days of the specific viewer of the live video provided by the specific distributor, for the specific viewer, the predetermined Including giving rewards.

Various embodiments of the present invention assist live video distributors in gaining fans.

1 is a configuration diagram schematically showing the configuration of a network including a video distribution server 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention; FIG. FIG. 2 is a block diagram schematically showing functions of a video distribution server 10; FIG. 4 is a diagram exemplifying information managed in a user information table 411; FIG. A diagram for explaining the rank. 4 is a diagram exemplifying information managed in a distribution management table 412; FIG. FIG. 11 is a view exemplifying information managed in a viewer-by-distributor management table 413; FIG. 4 is a view exemplifying a top screen 60; FIG. FIG. 7 is a view exemplifying a distributor screen 70; FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of a viewer screen 80; FIG. The figure which illustrates the item selection screen 200. FIG. FIG. 11 is a view exemplifying a box detailed information display screen 90; FIG. FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining changes in the number of consecutive viewing days and the number of combos when a viewer opens a super box and a hyper box; FIG. 10 is a view exemplifying display contents in a box-combo information display area 94; FIG. FIG. 10 is a view exemplifying display contents in a box-combo information display area 94; FIG. FIG. 10 is a view exemplifying display contents in a box-combo information display area 94; FIG. FIG. 10 is a view exemplifying display contents in a box-combo information display area 94; FIG. FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating processing executed by the server 10 when a user (viewer) starts viewing a live moving image. FIG. 11 is a view exemplifying a box opening screen 210; FIG. FIG. 4 is a flow diagram illustrating processing executed by the server 10 when updating ranks; FIG. FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining a rule for updating rank meter values; FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining the correspondence relationship between updated contents of ranks and necessary rank meter values; 4 is a diagram illustrating a rank meter object 100; FIG. FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating processing executed by the server 10 when giving diamonds;

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram schematically showing the configuration of a network including a video distribution server 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention. As illustrated, the moving picture distribution server 10 is communicably connected to a user terminal 30 via a communication network 20 such as the Internet. Although only one user terminal 30 is illustrated in FIG. 1 , the server 10 is communicably connected to a plurality of user terminals 30 . The moving image distribution server 10 provides users via the user terminals 30 with a live moving image distribution service for distributing and viewing live moving images. In this embodiment, the user operating the user terminal 30 can distribute live moving images as a distributor, and can also view live moving images provided by other users as a viewer. The moving picture distribution server 10 is an example of a device implementing part or all of the system of the present invention.

The moving image distribution server 10 is configured as a general computer, and as shown in FIG. ) 15, and these constituent elements are electrically connected via a bus or the like (not shown).

The computer processor 11 is configured as a CPU, GPU, or the like, reads various programs stored in the storage 15 or the like into the main memory 12, and executes various instructions included in the programs. The main memory 12 is composed of, for example, a DRAM.

The input/output I/F 13 includes various input/output devices for exchanging information with a user or the like. The input/output I/F 13 includes, for example, information input devices such as keyboards and pointing devices (for example, mice, touch panels, etc.), voice input devices such as microphones, and image input devices such as cameras. The input/output I/F 13 includes an image output device such as a display and an audio output device such as a speaker.

The communication I/F 14 is implemented as hardware such as a network adapter, various types of communication software, or a combination thereof, and is configured to enable wired or wireless communication via the communication network 20 or the like.

The storage 15 is composed of, for example, a magnetic disk, flash memory, or the like. The storage 15 stores various programs including an operating system, various data, and the like.

In this embodiment, the video distribution server 10 can be configured using a plurality of computers each having the hardware configuration described above. For example, the video distribution server 10 may be configured by one or more server devices.

The video distribution server 10 configured in this way can be configured to have functions as a web server and an application server. In this case, a web browser and other applications (for example, Various processes are executed in response to a request from a live video distribution service application), and screen data (for example, HTML data) and control data according to the results of the processes are transmitted to the user terminal 30 . A web page or other screen based on the received data may be displayed at the user terminal 30 .

The user terminal 30 is configured as a general computer, and as shown in FIG. 35, and these constituent elements are electrically connected via a bus or the like (not shown).

The computer processor 31 is configured as a CPU, GPU, or the like, reads various programs stored in the storage 35 or the like into the main memory 32, and executes various instructions included in the programs. The main memory 32 is composed of, for example, a DRAM.

The input/output I/F 33 includes various input/output devices for exchanging information with a user or the like. The input/output I/F 33 includes, for example, information input devices such as keyboards and pointing devices (for example, mouse, touch panel, etc.), voice input devices such as microphones, and image input devices such as cameras. The input/output I/F 33 includes an image output device such as a display and an audio output device such as a speaker.

The communication I/F 34 is implemented as hardware such as a network adapter, various types of communication software, or a combination thereof, and is configured to enable wired or wireless communication via the communication network 20 or the like.

The storage 35 is configured by, for example, a magnetic disk or flash memory. The storage 35 stores various programs including an operating system, various data, and the like. A program stored in the storage 35 can be downloaded from an application market or the like and installed.

In this embodiment, the user terminal 30 can be configured as a smart phone, tablet terminal, wearable device, personal computer, dedicated game terminal, or the like.

A user operating the user terminal 30 configured as described above communicates with the video distribution server 10 via a web browser or other application installed in the storage 35 or the like, thereby enabling the video distribution server 10 to You can use the live video distribution service provided.

Next, functions of the video distribution server 10 of this embodiment will be described. FIG. 2 is a block diagram schematically showing the functions of the video distribution server 10. As shown in FIG. As illustrated, the server 10 includes an information storage management unit 41 that stores and manages various information, a basic function control unit 43 that controls the basic functions of the live video distribution service, and a video distribution unit that controls distribution of the live video. and a control unit 45 . These functions are realized by the cooperative operation of hardware such as the computer processor 11 and the main memory 12, and various programs and data stored in the storage 15 and the like. It is implemented by the computer processor 11 executing instructions included in the loaded program. Also, part or all of the functions of the server 10 shown in FIG.

The information storage management unit 41 of the video distribution server 10 stores and manages various information in the storage 15 or the like. For example, as shown in FIG. 2, the information storage management unit 41 has a user information table 411 that manages information about users of the live video distribution service, a distribution management table 412 that manages information about distribution of individual live videos, and a viewer-by-distributor management table 413 for managing information about viewers for each distributor (information for each combination of distributor and viewer).

The basic function control unit 43 of the video distribution server 10 executes various processes related to control of the basic functions of the live video distribution service. For example, the basic function control unit 43 transmits screen data or control data of various screens related to the basic functions to the user terminal 30, and responds to operation input by the user via the screens displayed on the user terminal 30 to perform various operations. processing, and transmits screen data or control data according to the result of the processing to the user terminal 30 . Basic functions controlled by the basic function control unit 43 include, for example, login processing (user authentication), billing control, and user management (for example, updating the user information table 411).

The moving image distribution control unit 45 of the moving image distribution server 10 executes various processes related to controlling the distribution of live moving images. For example, the video distribution control unit 45 is configured to distribute a live video provided by a distributor to multiple viewers. For example, the video distribution control unit 45 receives a live video transmitted from a distributor's user terminal 30 (hereinafter sometimes referred to as "distributor terminal 30"), and distributes the live video to a plurality of viewers. to each user terminal 30 (hereinafter sometimes referred to as "viewer terminal 30"). A live video is composed of, for example, images input via the camera of the distributor terminal 30 and audio input via a microphone. Such live video distribution can be performed, for example, by a streaming method using a protocol such as HTTP Live Streaming (HLS).

In this embodiment, the video distribution control unit 45 is configured to give a predetermined reward to the viewer during distribution of the live video. For example, the video distribution control unit 45 is configured to give a predetermined reward to the viewer in accordance with execution of a predetermined action via the user terminal 30 by the distributor and/or the viewer.

In addition, during the distribution of the live video provided by the specific distributor, the video distribution control unit 45 determines the number of consecutive viewing days of the live video provided by the specific distributor (the number of consecutive views per day) by the specific viewer. ) to award a predetermined reward to the particular viewer. For example, the given reward increases in value for the viewer as the number of consecutive viewing days increases.

In this way, the video distribution server 10 in this embodiment rewards specific viewers based on the number of consecutive viewing days of live videos provided by specific distributors. To encourage a viewer to watch a specific distributor's live video on consecutive days, and as a result, to assist the live video distributor in gaining fans.

The number of consecutive viewing days in this embodiment is counted for days when live videos provided by a specific distributor are distributed, and days when live videos provided by a specific distributor are not distributed are not considered. In other words, as long as the viewing of the live video provided by a specific distributor continues on the day when the live video was distributed, there will be days when the live video itself is not distributed by the specific distributor. Even if it does, the count of the number of consecutive viewing days continues (not cleared).

In the present embodiment, the video distribution control unit 45 determines that the continuous viewing time (continuous viewing time) of a live video provided by a specific distributor by a specific viewer is a predetermined threshold (for example, 30 seconds, 3 minutes, or 7 minutes, etc.) may be configured to award a predetermined reward to certain viewers. Such a configuration facilitates continuous viewing of live video by viewers.

In addition, the video distribution control unit 45 controls the continuous viewing time of a specific viewer within a predetermined time (for example, 10 seconds, 20 seconds, or 60 seconds) after reaching a predetermined threshold value. It can be configured to give a predetermined reward to the specific viewer in response to an input operation by. In such a configuration, since a reward is given according to the viewer's input operation, the continuous viewing time is set to a predetermined threshold value without the viewer actually viewing (for example, leaving the viewer terminal 30 unattended). to prevent a predetermined reward from being granted.

In addition, the moving image distribution control unit 45 can be configured to present predetermined input information input by the viewer to the distributor and other viewers during the distribution of the live moving image. For example, the moving image distribution control unit 45 presents the live moving image to the viewer via the screen for the viewer displayed on each viewer terminal 30, and the predetermined The input information is configured to be displayed on the screen on each viewer terminal 30 and on the screen for the distributor displayed on the distributor terminal 30 (for example, displayed superimposed on the live video). Predetermined input information includes, but is not limited to, comments and/or items, for example.

In addition, the moving image distribution control unit 45 sets the continuous non-input time of predetermined input information by a specific viewer to a predetermined threshold value (for example, 30 seconds or 2 minutes) during the distribution of the live moving image provided by the distributor. During this period, it may be configured to suspend the counting of the continuous viewing time by the specific viewer. That is, the video distribution control unit 45 suspends counting of the continuous viewing time when the viewer does not input the predetermined input information continuously for a predetermined time, and then the viewer inputs the predetermined input information. At times, it can be configured to restart counting continuous viewing time. Such a configuration facilitates the input of predetermined input information by the viewer in addition to continuous viewing of the live video by the viewer.

In addition, the video distribution control unit 45, after giving a predetermined reward to the specific viewer in response to the continuous viewing time of the specific viewer reaching a predetermined threshold, Again, a predetermined reward may be awarded to the particular viewer in response to reaching a predetermined threshold. Such a configuration allows viewers to repeatedly earn predetermined rewards, thereby encouraging viewers to continue watching live videos more consistently.

In addition, the moving image distribution control unit 45 controls the continuous viewing of live moving images provided by a specific distributor on a daily basis by a specific viewer to continue (the update of the number of consecutive viewing days is maintained (not cleared)). It can be configured to give a predetermined reward so that the greater the number of times the reward is given, the higher the value for the viewer. In other words, the predetermined reward given to the viewer can be configured so that the value increases as the reward is repeatedly given in the period during which continuous viewing continues on a daily basis. Such a configuration encourages the viewer to earn predetermined rewards in addition to watching the live video of a particular broadcaster on consecutive days by the viewer.

In addition, the video distribution control unit 45 determines the number of days of continuous viewing by a specific viewer of a live video provided by a specific distributor, and the predetermined reward for the period during which the specific viewer continues to view the live video on a daily basis. It may be configured to award a predetermined reward to the particular viewer based on a combination of the number of awards given and the number of awards given. For example, the predetermined reward given to the viewer is given when the number of consecutive viewing days is N and the number of times the predetermined reward is given in the period up to the N consecutive viewing days is M. , configured to be of higher value than normal. Such a configuration improves the game playability of obtaining a predetermined reward.

In addition, the moving image distribution control unit 45 transmits information regarding the value of a predetermined reward to be granted in the future number of times of granting of a predetermined reward during a period in which a specific viewer continues to view continuously on a daily basis. It can be configured to be presented to an audience. For example, the moving image distribution control unit 45 presents information regarding the value of a predetermined reward to be given on the N+1 day of continuous viewing to the viewer at the point of time when the number of continuous viewing days is N. Configured. Such a configuration allows the viewer to be pre-informed about the value of future rewards, thus encouraging the viewer to continue watching on successive days.

In addition, the video distribution control unit 45 selectively provides the viewer with a first predetermined reward or a second predetermined reward that is more valuable to the viewer than the first predetermined reward. can be configured to Predetermined rewards in this embodiment include various virtual/electronic rewards, such as items (including coins, points, etc.). For example, a first predetermined reward is a first quantity of predetermined items and a second predetermined reward is a second quantity of said predetermined items that is greater than said first quantity. In this case, the probability of receiving the second predetermined reward can be configured to increase as the number of consecutive viewing days of a live video provided by a specific distributor by a specific viewer increases. For example, the second predetermined reward is not provided while the number of consecutive viewing days is less than the Nth day, and can be provided after the Nth consecutive viewing period. Such a configuration encourages continuous viewing of a particular streamer's live video through selective awarding of first or second predetermined rewards based on consecutive viewing days.

In the present embodiment, the first predetermined reward is not limited in the total number of times given to all viewers for each distributor, and the second predetermined reward is given to all viewers for each distributor. The total number of grants to viewers may be limited. For example, a second predetermined reward whose total number of grants is limited is held by each distributor at a predetermined timing (for example, granted to each distributor at the time of user registration for the live video distribution service), and then Each distributor's holding quantity of the second predetermined reward is configured to decrease as the second predetermined reward is awarded to the viewer. Such a configuration enhances the rarity of the second predetermined reward, which is of higher value to the viewer, thereby promoting early daily viewing of a particular streamer's live video. In addition, after the total number of times of giving the second predetermined reward of the popular distributor has reached the upper limit, the distributor whose total number of times of giving the second predetermined reward has not reached the upper limit (for example, (beginners) to watch live videos.

Next, a specific example of the video distribution server 10 of this embodiment having such functions will be described. FIG. 3 illustrates information managed in the user information table 411 in this example. The user information table 411 manages information about users of the live video distribution service. , "Distribution history information" that is information about the distribution history of live videos, "Viewing history information" that is information about the viewing history of live videos distributed by other users, and information about other users that this user is following "Follow user information", "Follower information" that is information about other users (followers) who follow this user, "Rank" that indicates the user's rank as a broadcaster, and judges rank up/down "Rank meter value", which is the parameter value for the live video distribution service, "Number of coins held" that indicates the number of virtual coins held in the live video distribution service, "Number of diamonds held" that indicates the number of virtual diamonds held, Super Box "Number of Super Boxes Owned", which is the number of . Superboxes and hyperboxes, which will be described later in detail, are a type of reward box that is opened by viewers during live video distribution. In this example, 10 super boxes and 3 hyper boxes are given to the user when registering a new account for the live video distribution service.

FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining the "rank" of the distributor in this example. As shown, in this example, there are six rank bands of 'S', 'A', 'B', 'C', 'D' and 'E'. Each of the five rank bands of B, C, and D is represented by three ranks (for example, “S+,” “S,” and “S-,” in which “+” is added to the alphabet indicating the rank band). , the rank of the alphabet alone, and the rank of the alphabet with "-" added). In addition, the "E" rank band is composed of one rank "E". That is, in this example, there are 16 ranks (3×5+1=16).

In addition, the rank band is highest on the "S" side and lowest on the "E" side. The ranks in the same rank band are highest on the "+" side and lowest on the "-" side. In this example, the user's rank is set to "D-" as an initial value.

FIG. 5 illustrates information managed in the distribution management table 412 in this example. The distribution management table 412 manages information related to distribution of individual live moving images, and as shown in the figure, associates a "distribution ID" that identifies an individual distribution with a "distributor user ID" that identifies the distributor of this distribution. "Account", "Delivery date and time", "Delivery time" indicating the duration of delivery, "Number of viewers (current value and maximum value)", "Number of comments" that is the number of comments entered by viewers, Viewers ``Likes'', which is the number of ``Likes'' input by viewers, ``Item points'', which are added according to the input of items by viewers, and ``Distribution points'', which are points given for this distribution Manage information such as

FIG. 6 exemplifies information managed in the viewer-by-distributor management table 413 in this example. The viewer-by-distributor management table 413 manages information about viewers for each distributor. "Last viewing date", which is the date when the corresponding viewer last viewed the corresponding broadcaster's live video, and the current number of consecutive viewing days of the corresponding broadcaster's live video by the viewer in association with the combination of "Number of consecutive viewing days", "Continuous viewing time", which is the continuous viewing time when the viewer is currently watching the broadcaster's live video, and the viewer's current viewing of the broadcaster's live video "Duration of comments not entered", which is the duration of time during which the viewer has not entered a comment, and the opening of the reward box on the day (current date) of the viewer during the delivery of the live video of the broadcaster. It manages information such as the “number of box openings on the day”, which is the number, and the “number of box combos”, which is the number of reward boxes opened during the period of continuous viewing on a daily basis.

In this example, reward boxes are rewards that can be earned by viewers during the delivery of live video, and there are three types of reward boxes: regular boxes, super boxes, and hyper boxes. The reward box contains a predetermined number of coins, specifically, the normal box contains coins ranging from 2 to 10 coins, and the super box contains coins ranging from 20 to 30 coins. The hyperbox contains coins ranging from 50 to 100 coins. The total number of superboxes and hyperboxes given to viewers is limited for each distributor, and the number of possessions of each is managed in the user information table 411 as described above.

FIG. 7 exemplifies the top screen 60 of the live video distribution service. As shown, the screen 60 includes a filter area 62 displaying "Follow", "Popular", and "All", a list display area 64 displaying a list of live videos currently being distributed, and "Distribution". and a distribution start button 66 displayed.

The filter area 62 is an area for setting filtering for live moving images being distributed displayed in the list display area 64 . Specifically, when "Follow" is selected in the filter area 62, the live videos listed in the list display area 64 are narrowed down to live videos of other users followed by the user. Similarly, when "popular" is selected in the filter area 62, the live videos listed in the list display area 64 are extracted according to predetermined extraction conditions for extracting popular videos (for example, , live videos with a viewer count (current value) greater than or equal to a threshold). Also, when "all" is selected in the filter area 62, all live videos being distributed without filtering are displayed as a list.

In the list display area 64, a plurality of individual display areas 641 each displaying information about an individual live video are arranged in two columns. The individual display area 641 displays, for example, a still image preset by the live video distributor, the distributor's account name, the number of viewers (current value), and the like. The list display area 64 is configured such that the displayed individual display area 641 is switched by a vertical flick operation/slide operation or the like.

The distribution start button 66 is an object for the user to start distribution of live moving images as a distributor. When the distribution start button 66 is selected by the user, the distribution of the live video is started. Specifically, the image input via the camera of the user terminal 30 and the Transmission to the server 10 of a moving image composed of the input voice is started. Also, a new record is created in the distribution management table 412 in accordance with the start of distribution of the live moving image.

FIG. 8 illustrates a distributor screen 70 displayed on the distributor terminal 30 in response to selection of the distribution start button 66 (that is, start of distribution of the live moving image). The screen 70 includes a moving image display area 71 corresponding to the entire screen, a basic information display area 72 located in the upper left corner of the screen, an action information display area 73 located in the lower left corner of the screen, and a circular area located in the center of the lower end of the screen. and a distribution stop button 76 .

The moving image display area 71 displays a live moving image to be distributed, that is, an image input via the camera of the distributor terminal 30 . Since the distributor usually takes a picture of the distributor himself/herself via the in-camera of the distributor terminal 30, the distributed live video includes the distributor himself/herself.

The basic information display area 72 displays the basic information of this distribution, specifically, the distributor information (profile image, etc.), the number of viewers of this distribution (current value), and the number of viewers for this distribution. Display the number of "likes" entered by

The action information display area 73 displays information about actions performed by the viewer. Specifically, in the area 73, a plurality of action objects 731 each corresponding to an individual action are arranged vertically. be done. The action information display area 73 is configured such that when the viewer performs a new action, the corresponding action object 731 is added to the lower side, and the existing action objects 731 move upward in turn. The action information display area 73 is configured such that the displayed action object 731 is switched by a vertical flick operation/slide operation or the like. Actions by the viewer displayed in the action information display area 73 include entering the room (starting viewing), inputting "Like", inputting comments, and inputting items.

The distribution stop button 76 is an object for the distributor to stop distribution of the live moving image. When the distribution stop button 76 is selected by the distributor, distribution of the live moving image (transmission of the live moving image from the distributor terminal 30 to the server 10) is stopped.

FIG. 9 exemplifies a viewer screen 80 displayed on the viewer terminal 30 . For example, when an arbitrary live video is selected by the viewer through the list display area 64 of the top screen 60, a viewer screen 80 for viewing the selected live video is displayed on the viewer terminal 30. . As illustrated, the screen 80 has a moving image display area 81, a basic information display area 82, and an action information display area 83, similar to the distributor screen 70 described above. The viewer screen 80 also has a comment input area 84, a "Like" button 85 displaying a heart mark, and an item input button 86 displaying a gift pattern at the bottom of the screen. The viewer screen 80 also has a box object 87 having the appearance of a box and a remaining time display area 88 displaying the remaining time until the reward box can be opened in a countdown format at the upper right corner of the screen.

The comment input area 84 is an area for the viewer to input comments. When the viewer inputs a comment via the area 84 , the action objects 731 and 831 corresponding to the input comment are displayed on the distributor screen 70 of the distributor terminal 30 and the viewer screen 80 of each viewer terminal 30 . It is added to the action information display areas 73 and 83 respectively. The action object 731, 831 corresponding to the comment displays the comment itself (text) together with the account name of the viewer who entered the comment. Also, when a comment is input, the number of comments in the distribution management table 412 is updated (added by 1).

The like button 85 is an object for the viewer to input "like" to the distributor. When the button 85 is selected by the viewer, "Like" is input, and action objects 731 and 831 corresponding to "Like" are added to the action information display areas 73 and 83, respectively. Action objects 731 and 831 corresponding to "Like" display the account name of the viewer who entered "Like" and text indicating that "Like" was performed. Also, when "Like" is input, a predetermined visual effect (for example, an animation effect in which a heart-shaped object is displayed so as to flow from the bottom to the top of the screen) is displayed in the video display areas 71 and 81. added. Also, when "like" is input, the "number of likes" in the distribution management table 412 is updated (added by 1).

The item input button 86 is an object for the viewer to input an item. When the button 86 is selected by the viewer, an item selection screen 200 illustrated in FIG. 10 is superimposed on the viewer screen 80 and displayed. The screen 200, as shown, lists a plurality of individual display areas 202 each displaying information about an item. The individual display area 202 displays an image corresponding to an item and the number of coins required to input the item.

In this example, a plurality of items that can be input by the viewer are determined in advance, and the number of coins as the price (value) of each item is set in advance. The item selection screen 200 displays a list of a plurality of items that can be entered. When any item is selected by the viewer through the item selection screen 200, the selected item is input.

When an item is input, action objects 731 and 831 corresponding to the item input are added to the action information display areas 73 and 83 . Action objects 731 and 831 corresponding to item input display the name of the input item together with the account name of the viewer who input the item. Also, when an item is input, visual effects corresponding to the input item are added to the moving image display areas 71 and 81 . Also, when an item is entered, item points corresponding to the number of coins of the entered item (for example, the higher the number of coins, the higher the point) are given to this delivery. It will be added to the item points of the corresponding delivery. Also, when an item is input, the number of coins for the input item is subtracted from the number of coins possessed by the corresponding user (viewer who has input the item) in the user information table 411 .

FIG. 11 exemplifies a box detailed information display screen 90 that is superimposed on the viewer screen 80 and displayed according to the selection of the box object 87 . The screen 90 displays information about reward boxes that can be obtained by the viewer, and as shown, displays a box object 91 having the appearance of a box and the remaining time until the reward box can be opened in a countdown format. a remaining time display area 92, a box holding status display area 93 for displaying the number of super boxes and hyper boxes owned by the distributor, and a box combo information display area 94 for displaying information on box combos. In addition, below the remaining time display area 92, the remaining number of reward boxes that can be opened by the viewer on the day is displayed for the broadcaster. In this example, for one broadcaster, one viewer can open up to two reward boxes per day. Further, below the box combo information display area 94, an explanation regarding the specifications of the reward box is displayed.

In this example, a box combo is managed for each combination of broadcaster and viewer, and is defined as consecutive openings of reward boxes during continuous viewing of this broadcaster's live video on a daily basis. The number of times of opening is the number of combos.

Also, in this example, the type of reward box given to the viewer is set based on the combination of the number of consecutive viewing days and the number of combos. Specifically, if the number of consecutive viewing days is "2 days" and the number of combos is "4" (that is, if you watch for 2 consecutive days, open 2 reward boxes on the first day, and , If you open the second reward box of the day), a super box will be given, and if the number of consecutive viewing days is "4 days" and the number of combos is "8" (that is, 4 consecutive days After opening two reward boxes on the 1st to 3rd days, and opening the second reward box on the 4th day), a hyper box will be given. For combinations other than these two (the number of consecutive viewing days and the number of combos), a normal box is set.

FIG. 12 is for explaining changes in the number of consecutive viewing days and the number of combos (the number of times the box is opened) when the viewer opens the super box and hyper box (this can also be referred to as the procedure for opening the super box and hyper box). is a diagram. As shown, on the first day of continuous viewing, both of the reward boxes opened twice are normal boxes. On the second day of continuous viewing, the reward box opened the first time (3 combos) will be a normal box, while the reward box opened the second time (4 combos) will be a super box. . Also, on the third day of continuous viewing, both of the reward boxes opened twice are normal boxes. On the 4th day of continuous viewing, the reward box opened the first time (7 combos) will be a normal box, while the reward box opened the second time (8 combos) will be a hyper box. . Any reward box that is opened after this will be a normal box.

The box combo information display area 94 displays the correspondence between the number of combos and the types of reward boxes. FIG. 13 exemplifies display contents in the box combo information display area 94 . The box combo information display area 94, as shown, corresponds to a reward box that has already been opened or will be opened at this time, a first box object 942A having the appearance of a filled box, and a box object 942A that will be opened in the future. A second box object 942B corresponding to the scheduled reward box and having the appearance of an unfilled box is arranged horizontally side by side. Also, these first and second box objects 942A and 942B are arranged so that the number of combos increases from left to right, and the corresponding number of combos is displayed below each. Also, as shown in the figure, a currently opened object 941 having a pin shape is arranged above the first box object 942A corresponding to the reward box to be opened this time (next time). Also, the first and second box objects 942A, B have an appearance according to the type of the corresponding reward box. Specifically, the first and second box objects 942A corresponding to the super box , B have one star-shaped object added to the upper side of the box, and first and second box objects 942A, B corresponding to the hyperbox have two star-shaped objects added to the upper side of the box. there is

The box combo information display area 94 displays information for 4 combos at a time (that is, 4 first/second box objects 942A and 942B), and the display range is switched by left/right flick/slide operations. is configured as For example, in FIG. 13, the area within the solid line frame is the initial display range in the box-combo information display area 94, and the area within the dashed line frame is also displayed by switching the display range. Also, in this example, the range that can be displayed in the box combo information display area 94 includes information for 8 combos including the current opening in addition to the number of combos that have already been opened. In the example of FIG. 13, since the reward box has not yet been opened (the number of combos corresponding to the opening this time is 1), the box combo information display area 94 displays information on the number of combos ranging from 1 to 8. be done.

Also, FIG. 13 corresponds to the display contents at the start of viewing on the first day of continuous viewing when the viewer opens the super box and hyper box illustrated in FIG. A second box object 942B having the appearance of a super box is arranged at the position of "combo", and a second box object 942B having the appearance of a hyper box is arranged at the position of "8 combo". ing. The viewer can know the timing (the number of combos) at which the super box/hyper box can be acquired through the display contents of the box combo information display area 94 .

FIG. 14 exemplifies the display contents of the box-combo information display area 94 on the second day of continuous viewing when two reward boxes are opened on the first day of continuous viewing from the state of FIG. In this case, as shown, an opened object 943 is arranged above the first box object 942A corresponding to the opened reward boxes (1 combo and 2 combo). Further, since the current opening corresponds to the third combo, the current opening object 941 is arranged above the first box object 942A of the third combo, and the displayable range in the box combo information display area 94 is 10. Expands to combo. Also, since the reward box is opened according to the opening procedure illustrated in FIG. 12, the Super Box can be opened in the 4th combo, and the Hyper Box can be opened in the 8th combo, as in the state of FIG. Become.

Here, in this example, if the broadcaster does not possess Super Boxes/Hyper Boxes (the number of possessions is 0), viewers cannot open these types of reward boxes. It is also reflected in the display contents in FIG. 15 exemplifies the display contents of the box-combo information display area 94 when viewing starts on the first day of continuous viewing and when the distributor does not have a super box. In this case, as shown, the second box object 942B located at the "4 combo" position does not have the appearance of a superbox, but rather the appearance of a normal box. If the distributor does not have a hyperbox, a second box object 942B having the appearance of a normal box is arranged even at the position of "8 combo". Also, during live video distribution, if the distributor does not have a Super Box/Hyper Box due to another viewer opening the Super Box/Hyper Box, the box combo information display area 94 This is reflected in the display contents.

Also, in this example, the viewer did not open the reward box according to the opening procedure illustrated in FIG. date exists.) and the super box/hyper box cannot be opened by the viewer. FIG. 16 exemplifies the display contents of the box-combo information display area 94 at the start of viewing on the second day of continuous viewing when the number of reward boxes opened on the first day of continuous viewing is one. In this case, as shown in the figure, all the reward boxes after the second combo are normal boxes. In this way, the viewer can know the types of reward boxes that can be opened in the future through the box combo information display area 94 .

Here, the operation related to opening the reward box will be described. FIG. 17 is a flowchart illustrating processing executed by the server 10 in response to the user (viewer) starting to view the live moving image (that is, displaying the viewer screen 80). The processing illustrated in FIG. 17 is performed individually for each viewer.

When viewing of a live moving image is started, the server 10 first updates the number of consecutive viewing days and the last viewing date as shown (step S100). The number of consecutive viewing days and the last viewing date are managed in the viewer-by-distributor management table 413 as described above. Specifically, in updating the number of consecutive viewing days, the previous delivery date of the distributor (specified by referring to the delivery history information of the user information table 411) and the last viewing date before the update of the viewer match. In this case, it is determined that the continuous viewing on a daily basis continues and 1 is added to the number of continuous viewing days. In this case, it is determined that continuous viewing on a daily basis is not continuing, and the initial value of "1" is set for the number of continuous viewing days. be done. Specifically, in updating the last viewing date, the current date is set as the last viewing date.

Then, as long as the number of reward boxes opened on the day does not exceed the upper limit (2 in this example) (NO in step S110), the server 10 determines that the duration of no comment input by the viewer is two minutes or longer, or , waits until the continuous viewing time reaches 7 minutes or more (NO in step S120 and NO in step S130). During this standby, the reward box can be opened in the remaining time display area 88 of the viewer screen 80 (and the remaining time display area 92 of the detailed box information display screen 90) according to the lapse of continuous viewing time. The remaining time is counted down. Note that the duration of no comment input and the continuous viewing time are managed in the viewer-by-distributor management table 413 as described above.

Then, if the duration of no comment input reaches two minutes before the continuous viewing time reaches seven minutes (YES in step S120), the server 10 suspends counting of the continuous viewing time (that is, reward The countdown of the remaining time until the box can be opened is paused) (step S140). The pause continues while the viewer does not input any comments (NO in step S150). While the counting of the continuous viewing time is paused, the box detailed information display screen 90 displays a message prompting the user to enter a comment. Thereafter, when the viewer inputs a comment (YES in step S150), server 10 resumes counting the continuous viewing time (step S155), and returns to step S120.

Then, when the continuous viewing time reaches 7 minutes (YES in step S130), server 10 waits for the reward box to be opened until 20 seconds elapse (NO in step S170 and step S190). NO in).

FIG. 18 exemplifies a box opening screen 210 that is superimposed on the viewer screen 80 and displayed when the continuous viewing time reaches seven minutes. In the center of the screen 210, a box object 212 for opening a reward box and obtaining a reward is arranged. Also, as shown in the figure, a countdown display of the time limit (20 seconds) until the reward box is opened is displayed below the object 212 . The viewer can open the reward box by inputting an operation to select the box object 212 within the time limit. Thus, setting a time limit for opening the reward box encourages viewers to actually watch the live video compared to not setting such a time limit.

Then, when box object 212 on box opening screen 210 is selected and the reward box is opened (YES in step S170), server 10 gives the viewer the number of coins corresponding to the type of box (step S180). Specifically, if the reward box is a normal box, coins in the range of 2-10 coins will be awarded, if the reward box is a super box, coins in the range of 20-30 coins will be awarded, and if the reward box is a If it is a hyperbox, it will award coins in the range of 50-100 coins. The specific number of coins to be awarded is set (for example, randomly) according to a predetermined rule so as to fall within these ranges. In the user information table 411, the number of coins owned by the corresponding user (viewer) is updated according to the grant of coins to the viewer. In addition, according to the opening of the reward box, the number of boxes opened on the day and the number of box combos in the viewer-by-distributor management table 413 are updated. Also, if the type of reward box is a super box/hyper box, the number of super boxes/hyper boxes possessed by the corresponding distributor is updated in the user information table 411 .

When coins are awarded to the viewer (step S180), or when the time limit of 20 seconds elapses without the reward box being opened (YES in step S190), the process returns to step S110. Then, if the number of reward boxes opened on the day exceeds the upper limit (YES in step S110), the process is terminated, and if the number does not exceed the upper limit (NO in step S110), the viewer comments again. It waits until the duration of non-input is two minutes or more, or the continuous viewing time is seven minutes or more. When the number of reward boxes opened on the day exceeds the upper limit, the box object 87 and/or the remaining time display area 88 of the viewer screen 80 will display that fact.

The operation related to opening the reward box has been described above. Next, the operation when the distributor ends the distribution will be described. As described above, when the distributor selects the distribution stop button 76 on the distributor screen 70, the distribution of the live moving image ends. When the distribution of the live moving image ends, the server 10 sets distribution points for the distribution. In this example, distribution points are calculated based on the number of viewers (maximum value), number of likes, number of comments, and item points. Distribution points are configured to increase as the number of viewers (maximum value), number of likes, number of comments, and item points increase. The calculated delivery points are registered in the delivery management table 412 .

Also, in this example, the current day's rank is determined (updated) based on the delivery points that the user earned the previous day. FIG. 19 is a flow diagram illustrating the processing performed by the server 10 when updating each user's rank. These processes are executed at midnight every day (for example, at 3:00 am every day).

The server 10 first updates the rank meter value of each user as shown (step S300). FIG. 20 is a diagram for explaining a rule for updating rank meter values. As shown, in this example, the rank meter value fluctuates based on the ranking of distribution points earned by the user on the previous day within the rank zone to which the user belongs. The distribution points earned by a specific user on the previous day are calculated by referring to the distributor user account, distribution date and time, and distribution points in the distribution management table 412 . Note that if the user performs multiple deliveries in one day, the delivery points earned by each of the multiple deliveries are summed up.

Specifically, as shown in FIG. 20, the update rule of the rank meter value is such that, first, when the order of distribution points in the rank band is included in the top 10%, the change in the rank meter value is "+2". (2 points increase). Similarly, if the ranking is included in the top 11% to 30% (20% remaining after excluding the top 10% from the top 30%), the change is "+1", and the ranking is in the middle 30% (top 31%). ~ 60%), the variation is "±0" (no increase or decrease), and the variation is "-1" (1 point decrease) when the ranking is included in the bottom 40%. Note that if there was no distribution on the previous day, the change in the rank meter value is "-1" regardless of the ranking within the rank band.

In step S300, each user's rank meter value is updated according to the update rule illustrated in FIG. In addition, if the user has a negative rank meter value and the change in the rank meter value this time is an increase (specifically, +2 or +1), the rank meter value will be cleared to 0 and then increased. You can let them do it. In other words, for example, if the current value of the rank meter value is "-1" and the current change is "+2", the rank meter value is cleared to 0 and then increased by 2, and the rank meter value after the change is It will be "+2" (instead of "+1"). In this way, even a user with a negative rank meter value (for example, a user with a low distribution frequency) can increase the rank meter value at once, thus promoting the distribution of live moving images.

After updating the rank meter value of each user, the server 10 then updates the rank based on the updated rank meter value (step S310). FIG. 21 is a diagram for explaining the correspondence relationship between the update contents of the rank and the necessary rank meter value. As shown in the figure, the rank meter value required to rank up across rank bands (in other words, to rank up from the highest rank in each rank band) is +4. That is, a user belonging to the highest rank (eg, A+) within each rank band is ranked up to the lowest rank (eg, S−) within the directly above rank band when the rank meter value reaches +4. In addition, when ranking up within the same rank band (in other words, when ranking up from the middle or lowest rank in each rank band), the necessary rank meter value is +2. In other words, users belonging to the middle or lowest rank (eg, B or B-) within each rank band become the immediately higher rank (eg, B+ or B ).

Similarly, as exemplified in FIG. 21, the rank meter value required to rank down within the same rank band (in other words, to rank down from the highest or middle rank in each rank band) is -2. In other words, a user belonging to the highest or middle rank (eg, B+ or B) within each rank band will be ranked immediately below within the same rank band (eg, B or B) when the rank meter value becomes -2. -). Also, the rank meter value required to rank down across rank bands is -6. In other words, a user belonging to the lowest rank (eg, A-) within each rank band is downgraded to the highest rank (eg, B+) in the immediately lower rank band when the rank meter value reaches -6. Thus, in this example, rank up/down across rank bands requires a larger absolute rank meter value than rank up/down within the same rank band. As a result, rapid rank up/down in a short period of time is suppressed.

In step S310, the rank is updated based on the rank meter value according to the correspondence illustrated in FIG. Note that the rank meter value of the user whose rank has been updated (the user whose rank has been increased/decreased) is cleared to zero.

FIG. 22 illustrates a rank meter object 100 displaying a user's rank meter value. The object 100 is arranged, for example, on a profile screen or the like that displays the user's basic information. As illustrated, the rank meter object 100 has a needle object 102 having a needle-like shape and a scale object 104 having a C-shaped alphabet opening downward. The user's current rank (“A rank” in the example of FIG. 22) is displayed below the needle object 102 . The needle object 102 is configured to swing (rotate) rightward when the rank meter value increases, and swing leftward when the rank meter value decreases. The needle object 102 in FIG. 22 is in an upright state (pointing in the direction of 12 o'clock), corresponding to a state with a rank meter value of zero. The needle object 102 tilts to the right as the rank meter value increases in the positive direction, and tilts to the left as the rank meter value decreases in the negative direction. A rank-up area 1041 corresponding to the rank meter value required for rank-up is set on the lower right side of the scale object 104, and the rank-up area 1041 corresponding to the rank meter value required for rank-down is set on the lower left side of the scale object 104. A rank down area 1042 corresponding to the value is set. Through the rank meter object 100, the user can grasp the current status of the rank meter value toward rank up/down.

Also, in this example, diamonds, which are rewards for users as distributors, are given based on the previous day's distribution time and rank (rank on the previous day). FIG. 23 is a flow diagram illustrating processing executed by the server 10 when giving diamonds to each distributor. These processes are executed at midnight every day, for example, at a time (for example, midnight every day) before the process executed when updating the rank of each user illustrated in FIG. 19 .

The server 10 first calculates the previous day's delivery time for each user, as shown in the figure (step S400). Specifically, the delivery time of the previous day for a specific user is calculated by referring to the delivery user account of the delivery management table 412 and the delivery date and time. If the user has multiple deliveries in one day, the delivery times for each of the multiple deliveries are summed.

Subsequently, the server 10 gives each user a number of diamonds based on the calculated distribution time and the reference number of diamonds (step S410). Specifically, the number of diamonds obtained by multiplying the calculated distribution time by the reference number of diamonds is given to each user. The reference number of diamonds is preset for each rank such that the higher the rank, the greater the number of reference diamonds, and the reference number of diamonds corresponding to the previous day's rank of each user is applied. When diamonds are given to the user, the number of diamonds held in the user information table 411 is updated. In this example, diamonds can be exchanged for coins or real currency.

In the above example, the type of reward box given to the viewer is set based on the combination of the number of consecutive viewing days and the number of combos. is set. In yet another example of the present embodiment, the management of box combos is not performed, and the type of reward box given to viewers is limited to only the number of consecutive viewing days (or in addition to this, parameters other than the number of combos). set based on

The video distribution server 10 of the present embodiment described above rewards a specific viewer (for example, a reward box ( Since a predetermined number of coins)) are provided, viewers are encouraged to watch live videos of a specific distributor on consecutive days, and as a result, the distributor of live videos is assisted in gaining fans.

The processes and procedures described herein, other than those explicitly described, may be implemented in software, hardware, or any combination thereof. For example, the processes and procedures described herein are implemented by implementing logic corresponding to the processes and procedures in media such as integrated circuits, volatile memory, non-volatile memory, magnetic disks, and the like. Moreover, the processes and procedures described in this specification can be implemented as computer programs corresponding to the processes and procedures, and can be executed by various computers.

Although the processes and procedures described herein are described as being performed by a single device, software, component or module, such processes or procedures may be performed by multiple devices, software, components or modules. and/or by multiple modules. Also, the software and hardware elements described herein can be implemented by aggregating them into fewer components or by decomposing them into more components.

In this specification, even if the components of the invention are described as either singular or plural, or are described without being limited to either singular or plural, when the context requires otherwise , the component may be singular or plural.

10 video distribution server 11 computer processor 15 storage (storage device)
20 communication network 30 user terminal 41 information storage management section 43 basic function control section 45 video distribution control section 60 top screen 70 screen for distributor 80 screen for viewer 90 box detailed information display screen 94 box combo information display area 100 rank meter object 200 Item selection screen 210 Box opening screen

Claims (6)

A system for delivering live video, comprising one or more computer processors, comprising:
The one or more computer processors, in response to executing readable instructions,
The process of distributing the live video provided by the distributor to multiple viewers;
A process of giving a predetermined reward to the viewer during the distribution of the live video;
a process of presenting predetermined input information input by the viewer to the distributor and other viewers during distribution of the live video provided by the distributor; and
The process of giving the predetermined reward includes:
During the distribution of the live video provided by the specific distributor, according to the continuous viewing time of the specific viewer of the live video provided by the specific distributor reaching a first threshold , the specific Giving the predetermined reward to the viewer of , and
suspending counting of the continuous viewing time by the specific viewer while the continuous non-input time of the predetermined input information by the specific viewer is equal to or greater than a second threshold;
system. In the process of giving the predetermined reward, the predetermined reward is given such that the greater the number of consecutive viewing days of the specific viewer of the live video provided by the specific distributor, the higher the value for the viewer. including to
The system of Claim 1. The process of providing the predetermined reward includes the specific viewing within a predetermined time after the continuous viewing time of the specific viewer of the live video provided by the specific distributor reaches the first threshold. Including giving the predetermined reward to the specific viewer in response to the input operation by the person,
3. The system of claim 1 or 2. In the process of giving the predetermined reward, after giving the predetermined reward to the specific viewer in response to the continuous viewing time of the specific viewer reaching the first threshold, Giving the predetermined reward to the specific viewer again in response to the continuous viewing time by the specific viewer reaching the first threshold again,
4. The system of any one of claims 1-3 . A method for delivering live video, executed by one or more computers, comprising:
distributing a live video provided by a distributor to a plurality of viewers;
giving a predetermined reward to the viewer during the delivery of the live video;
presenting predetermined input information entered by viewers to the distributor and other viewers during distribution of the live video provided by the distributor;
The step of providing the predetermined reward includes:
During the distribution of the live video provided by the specific distributor, according to the continuous viewing time of the specific viewer of the live video provided by the specific distributor reaching a first threshold , the specific Giving the predetermined reward to the viewer of , and
suspending counting of the continuous viewing time by the specific viewer while the continuous non-input time of the predetermined input information by the specific viewer is equal to or greater than a second threshold;
Method. A program for delivering live video,
to the one or more computers, in response to being executed on the one or more computers,
The process of distributing the live video provided by the distributor to multiple viewers;
A process of giving a predetermined reward to the viewer during the distribution of the live video;
a process of presenting predetermined input information input by the viewer to the distributor and other viewers during the distribution of the live video provided by the distributor;
The process of giving the predetermined reward includes:
During the distribution of the live video provided by the specific distributor, according to the continuous viewing time of the specific viewer of the live video provided by the specific distributor reaching a first threshold , the specific Giving the predetermined reward to the viewer of , and
suspending counting of the continuous viewing time by the specific viewer while the continuous non-input time of the predetermined input information by the specific viewer is equal to or greater than a second threshold;
program.

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