JP7459207B2 - System, method, and program for delivering live video - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a system, method, and program for delivering live video.

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, in live video distribution services for distributing live video, items are input (inserted) by viewers. For example, the system disclosed in Patent Document 1 listed below is configured to display a special item when a combination of items specified by item display requests from each of a plurality of users satisfies a predetermined condition. Inputting such items not only activates communication between viewers, but also enlivens the live video itself.

Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2015-114961

However, although the above-described conventional system can stimulate communication between viewers, it cannot be said to promote strengthening of the connection between viewers and distributors. Therefore, by inputting items during live video distribution, we will activate communication between viewers and strengthen the connection between the viewer and the broadcaster (increase the viewer's engagement with the broadcaster). .) It is desirable to realize a system like this.

One of the objects of the embodiments of the present invention is to strengthen the connection between the live video distributor and the viewers while activating communication between the viewers of the live video. Other objects of embodiments of the present invention will become apparent upon reference to the entire specification.

A system according to one embodiment of the present invention is a system for distributing live video, comprising one or more computer processors, and the one or more computer processors execute the following processes in response to execution of readable instructions: distributing a live video provided by a distributor to each of a plurality of viewers; accepting an item input by each of the plurality of viewers during distribution of the live video provided by the distributor; determining whether the current item input satisfies a predetermined combo condition in response to the item input by each of the plurality of viewers, and generating a combo if it is determined that the predetermined combo condition is satisfied; and granting a first value to the distributor in response to the occurrence of a combo.

A method according to an embodiment of the present invention is a method for distributing live video, which is executed by one or more computers, and the method is a method for distributing live video provided by a distributor to each of a plurality of viewers. a step of receiving an input of an item by each of the plurality of viewers during the distribution of a live video provided by the distributor, and a step of receiving an input of an item by each of the plurality of viewers; determining whether the input of the item satisfies a predetermined combo condition, and generating a combo when it is determined that the input of the item satisfies the predetermined combo condition; and a step of providing the distributor with the following information.

A program according to one embodiment of the present invention is a program for distributing live video, which, when executed on one or more computers, causes the one or more computers to execute the following processes: distributing the live video provided by a distributor to each of a plurality of viewers; accepting item input by each of the plurality of viewers while the live video provided by the distributor is being distributed; determining whether the current item input by each of the plurality of viewers satisfies a predetermined combo condition in response to the item input by each of the plurality of viewers, and generating a combo if it is determined that the predetermined combo condition is satisfied; and granting a first value to the distributor in response to the generation of a combo.

Various embodiments of the present invention stimulate communication between viewers of live video while strengthening the connection between the broadcaster of the live video and the viewers.

1 is a configuration diagram schematically showing the configuration of a network including a video distribution server 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention. 1 is a block diagram schematically showing the functions of a video distribution server 10. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating information managed in a user information table 411. FIG. Diagram for explaining ranks. 4 is a diagram illustrating information managed in a distribution information table 412. FIG. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a top screen 60; The figure which illustrates the screen 70 for distributors. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of a viewer screen 80. A diagram illustrating an item selection screen 90. FIG. 3 is a flow diagram illustrating a process related to input of an item by a viewer, which is executed by the server 10. FIG. A diagram for explaining combo conditions. FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of a viewer screen 80 on which an item object IO is displayed. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an item object IO. FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of a fever time instruction screen 110 that is displayed superimposed on a distributor screen 70. FIG. 3 is a flow diagram illustrating a process executed by the server 10 when updating a rank. FIG. 3 is a diagram for explaining a rule for updating a rank meter value. FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining the correspondence between rank update contents and required rank meter values. A diagram illustrating a rank meter object 100. FIG. 3 is a flow diagram illustrating a process executed by the server 10 when giving diamonds.

The following describes an embodiment of the present invention 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 an embodiment of the present invention. As illustrated, the video 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 video distribution server 10 provides a live video distribution service for distributing and viewing live video to the user via the user terminal 30. In this embodiment, the user who operates the user terminal 30 can distribute live videos as a distributor, and can also view live videos provided by other users as a viewer. The video distribution server 10 is an example of a device that implements part or all of the system of the present invention.

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

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

The input/output I/F 13 includes various input/output devices for exchanging information with users and the like. The input/output I/F 13 includes, for example, an information input device such as a keyboard and a pointing device (for example, a mouse, a touch panel, etc.), an audio input device such as a microphone, and an image input device such as a camera. Further, 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 communication software, or a combination thereof, and is configured to realize wired or wireless communication via the communication network 20 or the like.

Storage 15 is composed of, for example, a magnetic disk, a flash memory, etc. Storage 15 stores various programs including an operating system, various data, etc.

In this embodiment, the video distribution server 10 may be configured using a plurality of computers, each of which has 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 the functions of a web server and an application server, and in this case, the video distribution server 10 configured as described above can be configured to have the functions of a web server and an application server. In response to requests from a live video distribution service application), various processes are executed, and screen data (for example, HTML data), control data, etc. 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 on the user terminal 30.

The user terminal 30 is configured as a general computer, and as shown in FIG. 1, includes a computer processor 31, a main memory 32, an input/output I/F 33, a communication I/F 34, and a storage device 35, and these components are electrically connected via a bus (not shown) or the like.

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

The input/output I/F 33 includes various input/output devices for exchanging information with users and the like. The input/output I/F 33 includes, for example, an information input device such as a keyboard and a pointing device (for example, a mouse, a touch panel, etc.), an audio input device such as a microphone, and an image input device such as a camera. Further, 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 communication software, or a combination thereof, and is configured to realize wired or wireless communication via the communication network 20 or the like.

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

In this embodiment, the user terminal 30 may be configured as a smartphone, a tablet terminal, a wearable device, a personal computer, a game-dedicated terminal, or the like.

A user who operates the user terminal 30 configured in this manner can communicate with the video distribution server 10 via a web browser or other application installed in the storage 35 or the like. You can use the live video distribution service provided.

Next, the functions possessed by the video distribution server 10 of this embodiment will be explained. FIG. 2 is a block diagram schematically showing the functions that the video distribution server 10 has. As shown in the figure, the server 10 includes an information storage management unit 41 that stores and manages various information, a basic function control unit 43 that controls basic functions of the live video distribution service, and a video distribution management unit 43 that controls the distribution of live video. It has a control section 45. These functions are realized by the cooperative operation of hardware such as the computer processor 11 and main memory 12, as well as various programs and data stored in the storage 15 and the like. This is realized by the computer processor 11 executing instructions included in the loaded program. Further, some or all of the functions of the server 10 shown in FIG. 2 may be realized by the server 10 and the user terminal 30 working together, or may be realized by the user terminal 30.

The information storage management unit 41 of the video distribution server 10 stores and manages various information in the storage 15 and the like. For example, as shown in FIG. 2, the information storage management unit 41 stores a user information table 411 that manages information regarding users of the live video distribution service, and a distribution information table 412 that manages information regarding distribution of individual live videos. configured to have.

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

The video distribution control unit 45 of the video distribution server 10 executes various processes related to controlling the distribution of live video. For example, the video distribution control unit 45 is configured to distribute each live video of a plurality of distributors to each of a plurality of 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 transmits the live video to a plurality of viewers. The information is configured to be transmitted to each user terminal 30 (hereinafter sometimes referred to as "viewer terminal 30"). The live video is composed of, for example, an image input via the camera of the distributor terminal 30 and audio input via the microphone. Such live video distribution may 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 accept input of items from each of multiple viewers to the distributor of the live video during distribution of the live video. For example, the video distribution control unit 45 is configured to present the live video to the viewers via a predetermined screen displayed on each viewer terminal 30, and to display an item input by one viewer via the predetermined screen on the predetermined screen of each viewer terminal 30 (for example, superimposed on the live video). The items input by the viewer may include various virtual and electronic items. Such items are, for example, given to the viewer at various times, with or without payment.

In this embodiment, the video distribution control unit 45 is configured to determine whether the current item input satisfies a predetermined combo condition in response to an item input by a viewer, and to generate a combo if it is determined that the predetermined combo condition is satisfied. The predetermined combo condition is typically configured as a condition required between the current item input and a previous item input prior to the current item input (for example, the previous (immediately preceding) item input, or an item input in the previous combo, etc.).

Further, the video distribution control unit 45 is configured to provide a first value to the distributor depending on the occurrence of a combo. The first value may be configured as various virtual and electronic items, points, and various parameter values that may provide benefits to the distributor. The quantity held (total value) of the first value is managed, for example, in the user information table 411 or the distribution information table 412.

In this way, the video distribution server 10 in this embodiment generates a combo when it is determined that the input of an item by each of a plurality of viewers of a live video satisfies a predetermined combo condition. It can activate communication between parties, and furthermore, it provides primary value to the broadcaster in response to the occurrence of such combos, which strengthens the connection between the broadcaster and the viewers of the live video concerned. be able to.

In addition, the video distribution control unit 45 determines that the input of the current item is a chainable period during which the combo can be chained to the previous combo (for example, a period from the occurrence of the previous combo until a predetermined time elapses). , and if it is determined that a predetermined combo condition is satisfied, the combo to be generated this time is chained to the previous combo, and the greater the number of chained combos, the more the first value is distributed. may be configured to be granted to a person. The number of combo chains is sometimes simply called the "combo number." Further, the video distribution control unit 45 may be configured to clear the combo chain (clear the number of combo chains) in response to the end of the chain-enabled period. Once the combo chain is cleared, a new combo chain can be started, for example, from the next occurrence of the combo. Such a configuration promotes a chain of combos, and as a result, communication between viewers is further activated.

In this embodiment, the predetermined combo conditions for generating (and chaining) a combo may include various conditions required for (aspects of) the current item input. For example, the predetermined combo condition is a condition that the relationship between the value of the item input this time and the value of the item input last time or the value of the item input in the previous combo is a predetermined relationship (for example, , a condition that the value of the item input this time (price in real or virtual currency, etc.) is higher than the value of the item input last time, etc.). For example, such a configuration may be divided into viewers who own high-value items (e.g., advanced users) and viewers who do not own high-value items but only low-value items (e.g., beginners). Since it requires collaboration among viewers, it promotes activation of communication among diverse viewers.

Further, the predetermined combo condition may include a condition that the number of inputs of the same item (item of the same type) in a chain of combos is equal to or less than a threshold value. For example, if the number of inputs of the same item is limited to one or less, and item A has been input in previous combos, the current input of item A does not satisfy the predetermined combo condition. Such a configuration facilitates input of multiple types of items in a chained series of combos.

Further, the predetermined combo condition may include a condition that the number of inputs of an item by the same viewer in a combo chain is less than or equal to a threshold value. For example, if the number of inputs of an item by the same viewer is limited to one time or less, and if the item was input by viewer A in the previous combo, the input of the item by viewer A this time is The predetermined combo conditions are not met. Such an arrangement encourages large numbers of viewers to participate in combo chains (item inputs).

Further, the video distribution control unit 45 may be configured to provide the distributor with a second value in an amount based at least on the viewing status of a plurality of viewers during distribution of the live video. For example, the video distribution control unit 45 determines the amount of second value to be given to the distributor based on the number of viewers and input status of items, comments, likes, etc. by each of the plurality of viewers. configured to set. The second value may be configured as various virtual and electronic items, points, and various parameter values that may provide benefits to the distributor. The quantity held (total value) of the second value is managed, for example, in the user information table 411 or the distribution information table 412.

Further, the video distribution control unit 45 is configured to increase the quantity of the second value set based on at least the viewing status, with the necessary condition that the quantity of the first value held is equal to or greater than the threshold value. may be configured to initiate a predetermined mode. For example, when the viewing situation is the same, the quantity of the second value set is greater when the mode is in the predetermined mode than when it is not in the predetermined mode. In this case, the first value can be said to be a parameter value, etc. that is accumulated to start a predetermined mode. Such a configuration allows for the provision of benefits to the distributor via predetermined modes.

Further, the video distribution control unit 45 may be configured to start a predetermined mode in response to an instruction from a distributor after the quantity of the first value held exceeds a threshold value. Such a configuration allows the broadcaster to decide when to initiate a given mode. As a result, strategy is required for starting a predetermined mode, which can provide entertainment to the broadcaster and stimulate communication between the broadcaster and the viewers.

Further, the video distribution control unit 45 may be configured to enable input of items for the predetermined mode in response to the start of the predetermined mode. Such a configuration may increase the scarcity value of items for a predetermined mode and encourage entry of items in a predetermined mode.

Next, a specific example of the video distribution server 10 of this embodiment having such a function will be described. FIG. 3 illustrates information managed in the user information table 411 in this example. The user information table 411 manages information regarding users of the live video distribution service, and as shown in the figure, the user's basic information such as account name, age, gender, etc. is associated with a "user account" that identifies an individual user. ``Basic information'' which is information about live videos, ``Distribution history information'' which is information about the distribution history of live videos, ``Viewing history information'' which is information about the viewing history of live videos distributed by other users, "Following user information" which is information about other users who are following the user (followers), "Follower information" which is information about other users (followers) who are following the user, "Rank" which shows the user's rank as a broadcaster, and rank increase. / "Rank meter value" which is a parameter value for determining down, "Number of coins held" which indicates the number of virtual coins held in the live video distribution service, "Diamond holdings" which also indicates the number of virtual diamonds held information such as "number" and "fever gauge value" (first value) indicating the value of the fever gauge for starting fever time (predetermined mode) during live video distribution.

FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining the "rank" of the distributor in this example. As shown in the figure, in this example, there are six rank bands: "S", "A", "B", "C", "D", and "E"; Each of the five rank bands of "B", "C", and "D" has three ranks (for example, "+" is added to the alphabet indicating the rank band, such as "S+", "S", and "S-"). , a rank with only the alphabet, and a rank with a ``-'' added to the alphabet). Moreover, the rank band of "E" is made up of one rank "E". That is, in this example, there are 16 ranks (3×5+1=16).

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

FIG. 5 illustrates information managed in the distribution information table 412 in this example. The distribution information table 412 manages information related to the distribution of individual live videos, and as shown in the figure, a "distributor user" that identifies the distributor of this distribution is associated with a "distribution ID" that identifies an individual distribution. "Account", "Distribution date and time", "Distribution time" indicating the duration of the distribution, "Number of viewers (current value and maximum value)", "Number of comments" which is the number of comments entered by viewers, Viewers ``Number of Likes'' which is the number of ``Likes'' input by the viewer, ``Item Points'' added according to the input of the item by the viewer, and information about the combo that can occur in response to the input of the item. "Combo information", "Fever time flag" that indicates whether the current time is fever time, "Fever score" that is added according to comments, likes, and item input during fever time, for this distribution Information such as "basic points", which are the basic points given to the server, and "distribution points" (second value), which are the points obtained by adding the fever score to the basic points, is managed. The combo information includes the number of combos, combo history (history of item input in each chained combo (history of viewer and item combinations)), and the like.

FIG. 6 illustrates a top screen 60 of the live video distribution service. As shown in the figure, the screen 60 includes a filter area 62 displaying "Follow," "Popular," and "All," a list display area 64 displaying a list of live videos being distributed, and a display displaying "Distribution." and a delivery start button 66.

The filter area 62 is an area for setting filtering for the live video being distributed that is displayed in the list display area 64. Specifically, when "Follow" is selected in the filter area 62, the live videos displayed as a list in the list display area 64 are narrowed down to live videos of users that the user is following. Similarly, when "Popular" is selected in the filter area 62, the live videos displayed as a list in the list display area 64 are live videos extracted according to predetermined extraction conditions for extracting popular videos (e.g. , live videos for which the number of viewers (current value) is greater than or equal to a threshold value). Furthermore, when "all" is selected in the filter area 62, all live videos being distributed without filtering are displayed in a list.

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

The distribution start button 66 is an object for a user to start distribution of a live video as a distributor. When the distribution start button 66 is selected by the user, distribution of live video is started, and specifically, an image input through the camera of the user terminal 30 and an image input through the microphone of the user terminal 30 are also transmitted. Transmission of the moving image composed of the input audio to the server 10 is started. Additionally, a new record is created in the distribution information table 412 in response to the start of live video distribution.

FIG. 7 illustrates a distributor screen 70 that is displayed on the distributor terminal 30 in response to selection of the distribution start button 66 (that is, the start of live video distribution). The screen 70 includes a video display area 71 corresponding to the entire screen, a basic information display area 72 located at the upper left corner of the screen, a fever gauge 73 located below the area 72, and a lower side of the fever gauge 73. It has an item information display area 74 located at , an action information display area 75 located below the area 74 , and a circular delivery stop button 76 located at the center of the bottom edge of the screen.

The video display area 71 displays the live video being distributed, that is, the image input via the camera of the distributor terminal 30. The distributor usually shoots himself/herself via the internal camera of the distributor terminal 30, so the live video being distributed includes the distributor himself/herself.

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

The fever gauge 73 displays the value of the distributor's fever gauge in gauge format. As mentioned above, the fever gauge value is managed in the user information table 411, and as will be described in more detail below, it increases in response to the occurrence of combos and chains based on the viewer's item input.

The item information display area 74, which will be described in more detail below, displays information about the input of an item in response to the viewer's input of that item.

The action information display area 75 displays information regarding actions performed by the viewer, and specifically, in the area 75, a plurality of action objects AO, each corresponding to an individual action, are arranged vertically. be done. The action information display area 75 is configured such that when a new action is performed by a viewer, a corresponding action object AO is added to the bottom, and existing action objects AO are sequentially moved upward. The action information display area 75 is configured so that the displayed action object AO can be changed by flicking/sliding in the vertical direction. Actions by the viewer displayed in the action information display area 75 include entering a room (starting viewing), inputting "like", inputting a comment, and inputting an item.

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

FIG. 8 illustrates a viewer screen 80 displayed on the viewer terminal 30. For example, when an arbitrary live video is selected by a viewer via 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 shown in the figure, similar to the distributor screen 70 described above, the screen 80 includes a video display area 81, a basic information display area 82, a fever gauge 83, an item information display area 84, and an action information display area. 85. The viewer screen 80 also has a comment input area 86, a "like" button 87 with a heart mark displayed, and an item input button 88 with a present symbol displayed at the lower end of the screen.

The comment input area 86 is an area for the viewer to input comments. When the viewer inputs a comment via the area 86, the action object AO corresponding to the input comment is displayed as an action 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 information display areas 75 and 85. In the action object AO corresponding to the comment, the account name of the viewer who entered the comment and the comment itself (text) are displayed. Furthermore, when a comment is input, the number of comments in the distribution information table 412 is updated (added by 1).

The like button 87 is an object for the viewer to input "like" to the distributor. When the button 87 is selected by the viewer, "like" is input, and the action object AO corresponding to "like" is added to the action information display areas 75 and 85. In the action object AO corresponding to "Like", text indicating that "Like" has been performed is displayed together with the account name of the viewer who inputted "Like". In addition, when "like" is input, a predetermined visual effect (for example, an animation effect in which a heart-shaped object is displayed flowing from the bottom of the screen to the top) is displayed in the video display areas 71 and 81. will be added. Furthermore, when a "like" is input, the "number of likes" in the distribution information table 412 is updated (added by 1).

The item input button 88 is an object that allows the viewer to input an item. When the button 88 is selected by the viewer, an item selection screen 90, as shown in FIG. 9, is displayed superimposed on the viewer screen 80. As shown in the figure, the screen 90 displays a list of multiple individual display areas 92, each of which displays information about an item. The individual display areas 92 display an image corresponding to the 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 predetermined, and each item has a number of coins set in advance as its price (value). The item selection screen 90 displays a list of a plurality of inputtable items. When any item is selected by the viewer via the item selection screen 90, the selected item is input.

Here, processing related to item input will be described in detail. FIG. 10 is a flow diagram illustrating a process related to input of an item by a viewer, which is executed by the server 10 in this example. As shown in the figure, the server 10 waits for input of an item (NO in step S115) while the live video is being distributed (NO in step S100), and satisfies the combo clear condition for clearing the combo while waiting. Then (YES in step S105), the previous combos are cleared (step S110). I will discuss clearing the combo later.

When an item is input by any viewer while waiting for input of an item (YES in step S115), the server 10 displays the corresponding action object (step S120). Specifically, in the action information display areas 75 and 85 of the distributor screen 70 and the viewer screen 80, an action object AO corresponding to the input of an item is added. In the action object AO corresponding to the item input, the account name of the viewer who input the item and the name of the input item are displayed.

Then, the server 10 updates the item points for this distribution (step S123). Specifically, item points according to the number of coins of the input item (e.g., the more coins, the more points) are granted to this distribution, and are added to the item points of the corresponding distribution in the distribution information table 412.

Next, the server 10 updates the number of coins held by the viewer who input the item (step S125). Specifically, the number of coins of the input item is subtracted from the number of coins held by the corresponding user (the viewer who input the item) in the user information table 411.

Then, the server 10 determines whether the input of the item satisfies the combo condition (step S130). The combo condition in this example is made up of the following five requirements. In other words, if all of the following five conditions are satisfied, the combo condition is satisfied.

(1) The elapsed time from the previous combo (or input of the previous item if there is no previous combo) must be within 30 seconds. (2) The number of coins of the item input this time must be within 30 seconds. If the previous combo does not exist, the number of coins must be greater than or equal to the item input in the previous item input). No item has been entered yet (the number of times the item has been entered by the same viewer in a combo chain is 1 or less)
(4) The item input this time has not been input in the previous combo (in the chain) (the number of inputs of the same item in the chain of combos is 1 or less)
(5) Fever gauge is not full

FIG. 11 is a diagram for explaining the combo conditions in this example. In FIG. 11, from top to bottom, the number of combos is added or not added depending on the input of the item. In addition, in the following explanation, it is assumed that the interval between inputting successive items is within 30 seconds (satisfying condition (1)), and that the fever gauge is not full (satisfying condition (5)). . As shown in the figure, it is assumed that the viewer 01 first inputs item A(1) (the number of coins is in parentheses; the same applies hereinafter). The number of combos at this point is 0.

Next, when viewer 02 inputs item B (1), the number of coins "1" of item B input this time is greater than or equal to the number of coins "1" of item A input last time (condition (2) ), and a combo chain does not yet exist (conditions (3) and (4) are satisfied), so the combo condition is satisfied. As a result, the combo number is incremented by 1 from "0" to become "1".

Subsequently, when the viewer 03 inputs item B(1), item B input this time does not satisfy condition (4) and does not satisfy the combo condition because it has already been input in the previous combo. As a result, the combo number remains at "1".

Then, when viewer 04 inputs item C (3), the number of coins of item C input this time "3" is greater than or equal to the number of coins of item B input in the previous combo "1" (condition ( 2) is satisfied), the viewer 04 who inputted the item this time has not inputted an item in the previous combo (satisfies condition (3)), and the item C input this time is Since no input has been made in the previous combo (condition (4) is satisfied), the combo condition is satisfied. As a result, the number of combos is increased by 1 from "1" to become "2".

Next, when viewer 05 inputs item D (1), the number of coins of item D input this time "1" is less than the number of coins "3" of item C input in the previous combo, Condition (2) is not satisfied and the combo condition is not satisfied. As a result, the number of combos remains at "2".

Then, when viewer 06 inputs item E (3), the number of coins "3" of item E input this time is greater than or equal to the number "3" of coins of item C input in the previous combo (condition ( (2) is satisfied.), the viewer 06 who inputted the item this time has not inputted an item in the previous combo (satisfying condition (3)), and the item E input this time is Since no input has been made in the previous combo (condition (4) is satisfied), the combo condition is satisfied. As a result, the number of combos is increased by 1 from "2" to become "3".

Next, when viewer 02 inputs item F (5), viewer 02 who inputs the current item has already input the item in the previous combo (input item B in the first combo) ), condition (3) is not satisfied and the combo condition is not satisfied. As a result, the number of combos remains at "3".

Then, when viewer 05 inputs item F(5), the number of coins "5" of item F input this time is greater than or equal to "3" coins of item E input in the previous combo (condition ( 2) is satisfied.), viewer 05 who inputted the item this time has not inputted an item in the previous combo (satisfies condition (3)), and the item F input this time is Since no input has been made in the previous combo (condition (4) is satisfied), the combo condition is satisfied. As a result, the number of combos is increased by 1 from "3" to become "4".

Returning to the flowchart of FIG. 10, if the current item input is not determined to satisfy the combo condition (NO in step S130), the server 10 displays the normal item object (step S135), while displaying the current item object (step S135). If it is determined that the input of the item satisfies the combo condition (YES in step S130), a combo item object is displayed (step S140). FIG. 12 illustrates the viewer screen 80 on which the item object IO is displayed in the item information display area 84. Note that the item object IO is similarly displayed in the item information display area 74 of the distributor screen 70. The item object IO disappears after a predetermined period of time has passed after being displayed in the item information display areas 74 and 84. Note that a predetermined visual effect corresponding to the input item may be added to the video display areas 71 and 81 as the item object IO is displayed or disappears.

In this example, the normal item object when the item input does not satisfy the combo condition and the combo item object when the item input satisfies the combo condition have different appearances. FIG. 13(A) illustrates a normal item object IO1, and FIG. 13(B) illustrates a combo item object IO2. As shown, the regular item object IO1 has a rectangular outline with rounded corners, and has a circular viewer image display area IO11 on the left side that displays the profile image of the viewer who inputs the item. Further, the normal item object IO1 displays the viewer's account name and the name and image of the input item. On the other hand, as shown in the figure, the combo item object IO2 has a normal (non-rounded) rectangular outline, and on the left side is a trapezoidal viewer image that displays the profile image of the viewer who input the item. It has a display area IO21. In addition, the combo item object IO2 displays the viewer's account name, the name and image of the input item, and the number of combos ("5 combo" in the example in FIG. 13(B)). ).

Returning to the flow diagram of FIG. 10, if the input of an item does not satisfy the combo condition, the server 10 displays the normal item object, then returns to step S100 and waits for the input of an item again.

On the other hand, if the item input satisfies the combo condition, the server 10 updates the combo information and fever gauge value after displaying the combo item object (step S145). Specifically, in the distribution information table 412, the combo information (number of combos and combo history) and fever gauge value of the corresponding distribution are updated. In updating the combo information, the number of combos is incremented by 1, and information regarding the current item input (viewer and item combination) is added to the combo history. Furthermore, when updating the fever gauge value, an additional value that is set based on the number of coins of the item input this time and the number of combos after the update is added to the fever gauge value. The additional value becomes larger as the number of coins and the number of combos increases. When the fever gauge value is updated, the displays of the fever gauges 73 and 83 on the distributor screen 70 and the viewer screen 80 are also updated.

If the updated fever gauge is not full (the fever gauge value has not reached the maximum value) (NO in step S150), the server 10 returns to step S100 and inputs the item again. wait.

As described above, if the combo clearing condition is met during the waiting period for the input of an item (YES in step S105), the combo is cleared (step S110). Here, the combo clearing will be explained. In this example, the combo clearing condition is that any of the following conditions is met.

(1) The time since the last combo reaches 30 seconds. (2) The fever gauge becomes full.

When any of these conditions are met, the combo is cleared, and specifically, the combo information (combo count and combo history) of the corresponding distribution is cleared (initialized) in the distribution information table 412. In other words, the possible chain period in this example can be said to be "within 30 seconds from the previous combo."

On the other hand, as a result of repeated occurrence and chain of combos, when the fever gauge becomes full (the fever gauge value reaches the maximum value) (YES in step S150), the server 10 transmits the fever on the distributor terminal 30. A time instruction screen is displayed (step S155), and the process returns to step S100 to wait for item input again.

FIG. 14 illustrates a fever time instruction screen 110 displayed on the distributor terminal 30. As shown in the figure, the screen 110 is displayed overlapping the broadcaster screen 70, and includes a circular fever time button 112 displaying "FEVER START" and a hold button 114 displaying "I'll do it later". has. When the distributor selects the fever time button 112, fever time starts.

When Fever Time starts, a predetermined visual effect (for example, an animation effect in which the character string "FEVER" is displayed in a dancing manner) is displayed in the video display area 71 of the broadcaster screen 70 and the viewer screen 80. , 81. Furthermore, during fever time, fever scores are added according to comments, likes, and item inputs by each viewer. The fever score is managed in the distribution information table 412, as described above. In addition, in fever time, the number of comments, the number of likes, and the item points are also continuously updated according to the input of comments, likes, and items by each viewer. In other words, fever time can be said to be a mode in which a fever score is added in addition to the number of comments, the number of likes, and item points. Note that during fever time, instead of or in addition to the normal items that can be input via the item selection screen 90, it may be possible to input items for fever time.

In this example, the fever time ends when the elapsed time from the start reaches a predetermined time (for example, 60 seconds). When the fever time ends, the fever gauge value and combo are cleared (initialized). After that, when the fever gauge becomes full again, the fever time instruction screen 110 is displayed again, and it becomes possible to start fever time. Note that each time the fever gauge becomes full, the difficulty level of filling the next fever gauge may be increased (for example, the maximum value of the fever gauge value may be increased). Further, for each distributor, a limit may be set on the number of times the fever gauge is filled up in a unit period (for example, one day) (that is, the number of fever times may be limited).

In this example, when the distributor selects the hold button 114 on the fever time instruction screen 110, the start of fever time is put on hold. During the hold period, it is possible for the viewer to input items, but since the fever gauge is full (because the above-mentioned condition (5) is not satisfied), the combo condition is not satisfied (a combo does not occur). During the suspension period, the distributor can instruct the start of fever time at a desired timing (for example, the timing when a powerful viewer starts viewing).

As described above, when the distributor selects the distribution stop button 76 on the distributor screen 70, the distribution of the live video ends. When the distribution of the live video ends, the server 10 sets distribution points for the distribution. In this example, basic points are calculated based on the number of viewers (maximum value), number of likes, number of comments, and item points, and the fever score in fever time is added to the basic points to obtain distribution points. becomes. The basic points are configured to increase as the number of viewers (maximum value), number of likes, number of comments, and item points increase. The calculated basic points and distribution points are registered in the distribution information table 412.

Note that even if the live video distribution ends, the fever gauge value managed in the user information table 411 is maintained. That is, in this example, the fever gauge value (fever gauge state) is carried over to the next distribution. Note that the fever gauge value (state of the fever gauge) may be cleared (initialized) at a predetermined timing (for example, late at night every day, etc.).

Furthermore, in this example, the rank for the current day is determined (updated) based on the distribution points that the user acquired on the previous day. FIG. 15 is a flow diagram illustrating the process executed by the server 10 when updating the rank of each user. These processes are executed every day late at night (for example, at 3 a.m. every day).

First, the server 10 updates the rank meter value of each user (step S300). FIG. 16 is a diagram for explaining the rank meter value update rule. As shown in the figure, in this example, the rank meter value changes based on the ranking of distribution points earned by the user on the previous day within the rank band to which the user belongs. The distribution points that a specific user acquired on the previous day are calculated by referring to the distributor user account, distribution date and time, and distribution points in the distribution information table 412. Note that if the user performs multiple distributions in one day, the distribution points earned from each of the multiple distributions are added up.

Specifically, the update rule for the rank meter value is as shown in FIG. 16. First, if the distribution point ranking within the rank band is in the top 10%, the change in the rank meter value is "+2". (2 points increase). Similarly, if the relevant ranking is included in the top 11-30% (the remaining 20% after removing the top 10% from the top 30%), the change is "+1"; -60%), the change is "±0" (no increase or decrease), and when the rank is in the bottom 40%, the change is "-1" (1 point decrease). Note that if the previous day's distribution was not performed, the change in the rank meter value will be "-1" regardless of the rank within the rank band.

In step S300, each user's rank meter value is updated according to the update rules illustrated in FIG. 16. In addition, if you are a user whose rank meter value is negative and the current change in rank meter value is an increase (specifically, +2 or +1), the rank meter value will be cleared to 0 and then increased. You may also let them do so. In other words, for example, if a user's current 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 becomes "+2" (instead of "+1"). In this way, even if a user has a negative rank meter value (for example, a user whose distribution frequency is low), the rank meter value can be increased at once, thereby promoting the distribution of live videos.

After updating each user's rank meter value, the server 10 then updates the rank based on the updated rank meter value (step S310). FIG. 17 is a diagram for explaining the correspondence between rank update contents and necessary rank meter values. 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 within each rank band) is +4. That is, a user belonging to the highest rank (for example, A+) in each rank band is ranked up to the lowest rank (for example, S-) in the rank band immediately above when the rank meter value reaches +4. Further, the required rank meter value is +2 when increasing the rank within the same rank band (in other words, when increasing the rank from the middle or lowest rank within each rank band). In other words, a user who belongs to the middle or lowest rank (for example, B or B-) within each rank band will be automatically assigned to the rank immediately above the same rank band (for example, B+ or B-) when the rank meter value reaches +2. ) to rank up.

Similarly, as illustrated in FIG. 17, the required rank meter value is -2. In other words, a user who belongs to the highest or middle rank within each rank band (for example, B+ or -). In addition, the required rank meter value when moving down the rank across rank bands is -6. That is, when a user belonging to the lowest rank (for example, A-) in each rank band has a rank meter value of -6, the user is ranked down to the highest rank (for example, B+) in the rank band immediately below. In this way, in this example, the absolute value of the required rank meter value is larger for rank up/down across rank bands, compared to rank up/down within the same rank band. As a result, a rapid increase/decrease in rank 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 shown in FIG. 17. The rank meter value of the user whose rank has been updated (the user whose rank has been upgraded/downgraded) is cleared to 0.

FIG. 18 illustrates a rank meter object 100 that displays a user's rank meter value. The object 100 is placed, for example, on a profile screen that displays basic information about the user. As illustrated, the rank meter object 100 includes a needle object 102 having a needle-shaped shape and a scale object 104 having an alphabetical C-shape that opens downward. The user's current rank (“A rank” in the example of FIG. 18) is displayed below the needle object 102. The needle object 102 is configured to swing (rotate) to the right when the rank meter value increases, and swing to the left when the rank meter value decreases. The needle object 102 in FIG. 18 is in an upright state (pointing in the 12 o'clock direction), which corresponds to a state in which the rank meter value is 0. Further, 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 at the lower right side of the scale object 104, and a rank up area 1041 corresponding to the rank meter value required for rank up is also set at the lower left side of the scale object 104. A rank down area 1042 corresponding to the value is set. Via the rank meter object 100, the user can grasp the current status of rank meter values for rank up/down.

Further, in this example, diamonds are given as a reward to the user as a distributor based on the previous day's distribution time and rank (rank on the previous day). FIG. 19 is a flow diagram illustrating the process executed by the server 10 when giving diamonds to each distributor. These processes are executed at midnight every day, and are executed at a time before the process (for example, at midnight every day) when updating the ranks of each user illustrated in FIG. 15, for example.

The server 10 first calculates the distribution time of each user on the previous day, as shown in the figure (step S400). Specifically, the distribution time of the previous day for a specific user is calculated by referring to the distributor user account and the distribution date and time in the distribution information table 412. If a user performs multiple distributions in one day, the distribution time of each of the multiple distributions is added up.

Subsequently, the server 10 gives each user a number of diamonds based on the calculated delivery time and the standard number of diamonds (step S410). Specifically, each user is given a number of diamonds equal to the calculated distribution time multiplied by the standard number of diamonds. The standard number of diamonds is set in advance for each rank so that it increases as the rank increases, and the standard number of diamonds corresponding to the rank of each user on the previous day is applied. When diamonds are given to a 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 fever gauge value is added in response to the occurrence of a combo or a chain reaction, and when the fever gauge is full, fever time can begin, and the fever score during that fever time is added to the distribution points, but this design is merely an example, and other designs may be applied in other examples of this embodiment. For example, in this other example, distribution points may be added directly in response to the occurrence of a combo or a chain reaction. Furthermore, in yet another example of this embodiment, the value/benefit granted to the distributor in response to the occurrence of a combo is not limited to the fever gauge value and distribution points, and may be, for example, coins, diamonds, etc.

The video distribution server 10 of the present embodiment described above generates a combo when it is determined that the input of items by each of multiple viewers of a live video meets a predetermined combo condition, thereby stimulating communication between viewers of the live video, and furthermore, a first value (e.g., a fever gauge value) is granted to the broadcaster in response to the occurrence of such a combo, thereby strengthening the bond between the broadcaster and viewers of the live video.

The processes and procedures described in this specification may be realized by software, hardware, or any combination thereof, other than those explicitly described. For example, the processes and procedures described in this specification may be realized by implementing logic equivalent to the processes and procedures in a medium such as an integrated circuit, volatile memory, non-volatile memory, or magnetic disk. In addition, the processes and procedures described in this specification may be implemented as a computer program equivalent to the processes and procedures, and executed by various computers.

Even if 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. components and/or multiple modules. The software and hardware elements described herein can also be implemented by combining them into fewer components or decomposing them into more components.

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

10 Video distribution server 11 Computer processor 15 Storage (storage device)
20 Communication network 30 User terminal 41 Information storage management unit 43 Basic function control unit 45 Video distribution control unit 60 Top screen 70 Distributor screen 73 Fever gauge 80 Viewer screen 83 Fever gauge 90 Item selection screen 100 Rank meter object 110 Fever Time instruction screen

Claims (9)

A system for delivering live video comprising one or more computer processors, the system comprising:
In response to executing readable instructions, the one or more computer processors:
A process of distributing a live video provided by a distributor to each of a plurality of viewers;
a process of accepting input of items by each of the plurality of viewers during the distribution of a live video provided by the distributor;
In response to item input by each of the plurality of viewers, it is determined whether the current item input satisfies a predetermined combo condition, and if it is determined that the predetermined combo condition is satisfied, the combo is executed. The process to generate the
performing a process of adding a parameter value associated with the broadcaster in response to the occurrence of a combo;
The process of adding the parameter value includes not adding the parameter value if a combo does not occur even if an item is input.
system. the process of generating a combo includes, when the current item is input during a combo chaining possible period during which a combo chaining is possible with respect to a previous combo, and when it is determined that the current item input satisfies the predetermined combo condition, chaining the currently generated combo to the previous combo;
the process of adding the parameter value includes adding a larger parameter value as the number of consecutive combos increases;
The system of claim 1. The one or more computer processors further execute a process of clearing the combo chain in response to the end of the chain possible period.
3. The system of claim 2. The predetermined combo condition is that the relationship between the value of the item input this time and the value of the item input last time or the value of the item input in the previous combo is a predetermined relationship. including conditions,
The system according to claim 2 or 3. The one or more computer processors further include:
a process of granting a quantity of a second value to the distributor, the quantity being set based at least on a viewing status of the plurality of viewers during distribution of the live video provided by the distributor;
and executing a process of starting a predetermined mode configured to increase the quantity of the second value based at least on a viewing situation, with the parameter value being equal to or greater than a threshold as a necessary condition.
5. A system according to any one of claims 1 to 4. The process of starting the predetermined mode includes starting the predetermined mode in response to an instruction from the distributor after the parameter value becomes equal to or greater than a threshold value.
6. The system of claim 5. The process of accepting the input of the item includes enabling the input of the item for the predetermined mode in response to the start of the predetermined mode.
The system according to claim 5 or 6. A method for delivering live video performed by one or more computers, the method comprising:
a step of distributing a live video provided by a distributor to each of a plurality of viewers;
receiving input of items by each of the plurality of viewers during the distribution of a live video provided by the distributor;
In response to item input by each of the plurality of viewers, it is determined whether the current item input satisfies a predetermined combo condition, and if it is determined that the predetermined combo condition is satisfied, the combo is executed. a step to generate;
adding a parameter value associated with the distributor in response to occurrence of a combo;
The step of adding the parameter values includes not adding the parameter values if a combo does not occur even if an item is input.
Method. A program for distributing live video,
in response to being executed on one or more computers, said one or more computers;
A process of distributing a live video provided by a distributor to each of a plurality of viewers;
a process of accepting input of items by each of the plurality of viewers during the distribution of a live video provided by the distributor;
In response to item input by each of the plurality of viewers, it is determined whether the current item input satisfies a predetermined combo condition, and if it is determined that the predetermined combo condition is satisfied, the combo is executed. The process to generate the
performing a process of adding a parameter value associated with the distributor in response to the occurrence of a combo;
The process of adding the parameter value includes not adding the parameter value if a combo does not occur even if an item is input.
program.

Images