JP7577905B2 - Distribution system, distribution method, and program - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a distribution system, a distribution method, and a program.

Online events, such as live streaming of music or online classes, are being held via communication networks such as the Internet or LANs (Local Area Networks).

There is also known a live performance system that measures biometric information using a device worn by participants in a live performance, generates a performance effect based on the results of comparing the measured biometric information with a threshold value, and shares the generated performance effect with the participants (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

JP 2020-009027 A

For example, holding live music or other events online can pose the problem of losing a sense of unity between participants in the live event and other participants.

The technology disclosed in Patent Document 1 allows participants to share performance effects based on their biometric information, but this method alone makes it difficult to improve the sense of unity between participants taking part in a live performance and other participants.

Note that this problem is not limited to live streaming of music and the like, but is common to various events held online, such as online lectures, seminars, and talk events.

One embodiment of the present invention has been made in consideration of the above problems, and provides a distribution system that enhances the sense of unity between participants at an event held online and other participants.

In order to solve the above problems, a distribution system according to one embodiment of the present invention is a distribution system including a distribution device and a terminal used by participants, and has a memory unit that stores setting conditions of the participants, an extraction unit that extracts participants using the terminal that satisfies the setting conditions based on information acquired by the terminal, and a distribution unit that distributes a message encouraging behavioral change in accordance with the setting conditions to non-extracted participants who are using a terminal that was not extracted by the extraction unit.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, a distribution system can be provided that enhances the sense of unity between participants in an event held online and other participants.

FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a system configuration of a distribution system according to an embodiment. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of a computer according to an embodiment. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of the appearance of a terminal according to an embodiment. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of a terminal according to an embodiment. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a functional configuration of a terminal and an information terminal according to an embodiment. FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a functional configuration of a distribution system according to an embodiment. 4 is a flowchart illustrating an example of processing of the distribution system according to the first embodiment. FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of information managed by the distribution system according to the first embodiment; FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of information managed by the distribution system according to the first embodiment; FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of information managed by the distribution system according to the first embodiment. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display screen of the information terminal according to the first embodiment. 13 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process of a distribution system according to a second embodiment. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of setting conditions according to the second embodiment. 13 is a flowchart (1) illustrating an example of a process of a distribution system according to a third embodiment. 13 is a flowchart (2) illustrating an example of a process of the distribution system according to the third embodiment. FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of a functional configuration of a distribution system according to a fourth embodiment. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of participant information according to the fourth embodiment; 13 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process of a distribution system according to a fourth embodiment. FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of a functional configuration of a distribution system according to a fifth embodiment. FIG. 23 is a diagram showing an example of participant information according to the fifth embodiment; 13 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process of a distribution system according to a fifth embodiment. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an image of processing according to the fifth embodiment; FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an image of the process according to the fifth embodiment (2). FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an image of processing according to the fifth embodiment (3). FIG. 13 is a diagram (4) showing an image of processing according to the fifth embodiment. FIG. 5 is a diagram (5) showing an image of processing according to the fifth embodiment. 23 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process of a distribution system according to a sixth embodiment. FIG. 23 is a diagram showing an example of setting conditions according to the sixth embodiment (1). FIG. 23 is a diagram showing an example of setting conditions according to the sixth embodiment; FIG. 23 is a diagram showing an example of setting conditions according to the sixth embodiment;

Below, an embodiment of the present invention is described with reference to the attached drawings.

<System Configuration>
1 is a diagram showing an example of a system configuration of a distribution system according to an embodiment. The distribution system 1 includes at least a distribution device 100 and terminals 10a, 10b, 10c, ... used by participants. The distribution system 1 is a system that provides content such as live video of music or online classes provided by an organizer to participants (Participant A, Participant B, Participant C, ...) via a communication network such as the Internet or a LAN (Local Area Network).

In the example of Figure 1, the distribution system 1 further includes an information terminal 20 for the organizer to provide content, and information terminals 11a, 11b, 11c, ... for participants to view the content. In the following description, "information terminal 11" is used to refer to any of the information terminals 11a, 11b, 11c, .... Furthermore, "terminal 10" is used to refer to any of the terminals 10a, 10b, 10c, .... Furthermore, "participant" is used to refer to any of participant A, participant B, and participant C.

The terminal 10 is a device used by participants when participating in an online event provided by the organizer. When a participant is participating in an event, the terminal 10 acquires information such as the participant's movements, operations, pulse rate, etc., and transmits the acquired information (participant information acquired by the terminal) to the distribution device 100. The terminal 10 also emits light or vibrates in response to the organizer's performances, etc., distributed from the distribution device 100.

1, the terminal 10 connects to the information terminal 11 by short-range wireless communication such as Bluetooth (registered trademark), and communicates with the distribution device 100 via the information terminal 11. However, this is not limited to the above, and the terminal 10 may communicate with the distribution device 100 by wireless communication such as a wireless LAN (Local Area Network) or a wireless WAN (Wide Area Network), or by wired communication.

The information terminal 11 is an information terminal used by the participants, such as a smartphone, a tablet terminal, or a PC (Personal Computer). In the example of FIG. 1, the information terminal 11 displays the content distributed from the distribution device 100, and transmits audiovisual information distributed from the distribution device 100 (such as information on the light emission color and vibration of the terminal 10) to the terminal 10. The information terminal 11 also transmits information on the participants acquired by the terminal 10 to the distribution device 100.

The information terminal 20 is an information terminal such as a PC used by the organizer. The information terminal 20 transmits to the distribution device 100, for example, content such as video containing the voices of the performers and the sounds of musical instruments, and setting conditions set by the management staff, etc. Note that the content transmitted from the information terminal 20 to the distribution device 100 may optionally include, for example, vibration or information acquired by the terminal 10x used by the performer (information on the performer's movements, operations, pulse rate, etc.).

In addition, the information terminal 20 may provide feedback of the participants' reactions to the performers, for example, in the form of images, light, vibrations, etc., based on the participant information or audiovisual information distributed from the distribution device 100.

The distribution device 100 is an information processing device having a computer configuration, or a system including multiple computers. The distribution device 100 distributes content such as video received from the organizer's information terminal 20 to an information terminal 11 used by participants participating in the event. The distribution device 100 may also distribute audiovisual information (information such as light emission or vibration) to the terminal 10 via the information terminal 11 in accordance with the organizer's production. The distribution device 100 may be divided into, for example, an information processing device (or system) that distributes content such as video, and an information processing device (or system) that distributes audiovisual information.

In addition, the distribution device 100 according to this embodiment has a function of receiving participant information acquired by the terminal 10 from the information terminal 11, and extracting participants who meet the conditions set by the organizer based on the received information. Furthermore, the distribution device 100 has a function of providing the extracted participants (hereinafter referred to as "extractors") with benefits prepared by the organizer, for example, and of delivering a message to participants who were not selected (hereinafter referred to as "non-extractors") to encourage behavioral change. This message includes, for example, information for the non-extractors to meet the set conditions.

In this way, the distribution system 1 according to this embodiment provides participants with benefits or messages encouraging behavioral change based on the information acquired by the terminal 10 used by the participant and the set conditions. This can be expected, for example, to encourage participants who receive a message to take similar actions in order to obtain a benefit. Therefore, according to this embodiment, a distribution system 1 can be provided that enhances the sense of unity between participants participating in an event held online and other participants.

The setting conditions set in the distribution device 100 may include setting conditions for participants. For example, a participant who is invited by an acquaintance to participate in an event but is unable to adapt to the atmosphere of the event, or a participant whose terminal 10 battery has run out, and who does not require a message to encourage behavioral change, may set the delivery of the message as "unnecessary."

The system configuration of the distribution system 1 shown in FIG. 1 is an example. For example, the distribution system 1 is not limited to live distribution, and may distribute pre-recorded content to participants. In this case, the distribution system 1 does not need to have an information terminal 20 on the organizer's side.

At least a part of the distribution device 100 is not limited to a physical machine (computer) and may be realized, for example, by a virtual machine on the cloud.

Participants may watch the content on a television or the like instead of the information terminal 11. In this case, the distribution system 1 does not need to have an information terminal 11. In this case, the terminal 10 may communicate with the distribution device 100 via a wireless LAN access point or the like.

The terminal 10 is not limited to a dedicated terminal, but may be, for example, a television remote control, a smartphone, or a wearable terminal.

<Hardware Configuration>
(Hardware configuration of information terminal and distribution device)
The information terminal 11, the information terminal 20, and the distribution device 100 each have, for example, the hardware configuration of a computer 200 as shown in FIG 2. Note that the distribution device 100 may be configured by a plurality of computers 200.

2 is a diagram showing an example of a hardware configuration of a computer according to an embodiment. The computer 200 includes, for example, a processor 201, a memory 202, a storage device 203, a communication device 204, an input device 205, an output device 206, and a bus 207.

The processor 201 is, for example, a calculation device such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) that realizes various functions by executing a predetermined program stored in a storage medium such as the storage device 203 or the memory 202. The memory 202 includes, for example, a RAM (Random Access Memory), which is a volatile memory used as a work area for the processor 201, and a ROM (Read Only Memory), which is a non-volatile memory that stores programs for starting the processor 201. The storage device 203 is a large-capacity storage device that stores an OS (Operating System), programs such as applications, and various data, information, etc., and is realized by, for example, an SSD (Solid State Drive) or an HDD (Hard Disk Drive).

The communication device 204 is a communication device such as a LAN or WAN for connecting the computer 200 to a communication network to communicate with other devices. The communication device 204 may perform wireless communication or may perform wired communication. In addition, when the computer 200 is an information terminal 11 or an information terminal 20, the communication device 204 includes a communication device for performing short-range wireless communication such as Bluetooth.

The input device 205 is an input device that accepts input from the outside, such as a touch panel, a keyboard, or a pointing device. The output device 206 is an output device that outputs to the outside, such as a display, a speaker, or a light-emitting element. Note that the input device 205 and the output device 206 may be integrated into one device, such as a touch panel display.

Bus 207 is commonly connected to each of the above components and transmits, for example, address signals, data signals, and various control signals.

(Appearance of the device)
Fig. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the external appearance of a terminal according to an embodiment. As an example, the terminal 10 used by the participant has a stick-like external appearance as shown in Fig. 3 and is configured so that the participant can hold it in his/her hand.

In addition, on the outside of the terminal 10, for example, a full-color LED (Light Emitting Diode) 301, a color change button 302, an appeal button 303, a pulse sensor 304, a microphone 305, a display 306, and a power button 307 are provided.

The full-color LED 301 is an example of a light-emitting element that can emit light in any color under control of an MCU (Micro Controller Unit) or the like provided in the terminal 10. The color change button 302 is an input element that accepts an operation by a participant to change the emitted color. The appeal button 303 is an input element that accepts pressing by a user. For example, a participant can appeal to performers, etc. by repeatedly pressing the appeal button 303.

The pulse sensor 304 is a sensor that detects the pulse or heart rate of the user. The pulse sensor 304 is an example of a sensor that acquires biometric information indicating the condition of the participant. Instead of (or in addition to) the pulse sensor 304, the terminal 10 may have a sweat sensor that detects the participant's sweat, a body temperature sensor that detects the participant's body temperature, a piezoelectric sensor that detects the force with which the stick is gripped, or an electromyography sensor that detects the movement of the muscles in the hand.

The microphone 305 is a microphone that picks up the voices of the participants and surrounding sounds. The display 306 is a display element that displays, for example, messages. The power button 307 is an input element that accepts an operation to turn the power of the terminal 10 on and off by a participant or the like.

(Device hardware configuration)
Fig. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a hardware configuration of a terminal according to an embodiment. For example, as shown in Fig. 4, the terminal 10 has an MCU 400, a full-color LED 301, a color change button 302, an appeal button 303, a pulse sensor 304, a microphone 305, a display 306, a power button 307, an acceleration/angular velocity sensor 401, a vibration device 402, and a communication device 403.

MCU 400 is an embedded processor that integrates a computer system into a single integrated circuit, and controls each component connected to MCU 400 by executing a specific program. Full-color LED 301, color change button 302, appeal button 303, pulse sensor 304, microphone 305, display 306, and power button 307 correspond to each component described in FIG. 2.

The acceleration/angular velocity sensor 401 is a sensor that detects the acceleration and angular velocity of the terminal 10. The vibration device 402 is a vibration element that reproduces a variety of sensations through vibration. Preferably, the vibration device 402 is a vibration feedback device with two degrees of freedom. The communication device 403 is, for example, a wireless module that performs short-range wireless communication with the information terminal 11 or the information terminal 20, or a wireless IC (Integrated Circuit), etc. Alternatively, the communication device 403 may be a wireless module that performs wireless LAN communication, wireless WAN communication, etc.

Note that the appearance of the terminal 10 shown in Figure 3 and the hardware configuration of the terminal 10 shown in Figure 4 are examples, and various modifications or applications are possible.

<Functional configuration>
FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of a functional configuration of a terminal and an information terminal according to an embodiment.

(Functional configuration of the terminal)
The terminal 10, for example, realizes a change unit 501, a first detection unit 502, a second detection unit 503, a third detection unit 504, a control unit 505, a short-range communication unit 506, a display unit 507, etc., by executing a predetermined program in the MCU 400. Note that at least a part of the above-mentioned functional configurations may be realized by hardware.

The change unit 501 changes the light emission color of the light-emitting element provided in the terminal 10 in response to the operation of the participant. For example, the change unit 501 changes the light emission color of the full-color LED 301 in response to the operation of the color change button 302 by the participant.

The first detection unit 502 detects the acceleration or angular velocity of the terminal 10. For example, the first detection unit 502 detects the acceleration and angular velocity of the terminal 10 using the acceleration/angular velocity sensor 401.

The second detection unit 503 detects pressing of a button provided on the terminal 10. For example, the second detection unit 503 detects pressing information such as pressing of the appeal button 303 by a participant, the number of times it is pressed, or the pressing speed.

The third detection unit 504 acquires status information indicating the status of the participant. For example, the third detection unit 504 acquires information such as the participant's pulse rate or heart rate using the pulse sensor 304.

The control unit 505 performs overall control of the terminal 10. For example, the control unit 505 transmits the acceleration or angular velocity detected by the first detection unit 502, the button press information detected by the second detection unit 503, and the biometric information acquired by the third detection unit 504, etc., to the distribution device 100 via the information terminal 11. The control unit 505 also controls the light emission color of the full-color LED 301 or the vibration of the vibration device 402, etc., according to the audiovisual information, etc. received from the distribution device 100 via the information terminal 11.

The short-range communication unit 506, for example, connects the terminal 10 used by the participant to the information terminal 11 used by the participant via short-range wireless communication, and communicates with the distribution device 100 via the information terminal 11. The display unit 507 displays a display screen using the display 306 or the like.

Note that the functional configuration of the terminal 10 shown in FIG. 5 is an example. For example, the terminal 10 may have a wireless LAN communication unit that communicates with the information terminal 11 via wireless LAN communication instead of (or in addition to) the short-range communication unit 506. The terminal 10 may also use the wireless LAN communication unit to connect to an access point for wireless LAN communication and communicate with the distribution device 100 via the access point. Similarly, the terminal 10 may have a wireless WAN communication unit that connects to a base station via wireless WAN communication and communicates with the distribution device 100 via the base station instead of (or in addition to) the short-range communication unit 506.

(Functional configuration of participant's information terminal)
The information terminal 11 on the participant side realizes a communication unit 511, a display control unit 512, a transfer unit 513, a short-range communication unit 514, etc., by executing a predetermined program on the processor 201, for example. Note that at least a part of the above-mentioned functional configurations may be realized by hardware.

The communication unit 511 uses the communication device 204 to connect the information terminal 11 to a communication network N, such as the Internet or a LAN, and performs communication processing to communicate with the distribution device 100.

The display control unit 512 executes a display control process to display various display screens on a display or the like included in the output device 206. For example, the display control unit 512 displays content such as video distributed from a distribution device. Note that, if the content includes sound, the display control unit 512 also controls the output of sound using a speaker or the like included in the output device 206. The display control unit 512 also controls the display of messages and the like distributed from the distribution device 100 on the display screen.

The forwarding unit 513 performs a forwarding process in which the short-range communication unit 514 forwards data received from the terminal 10 to the broadcasting device 100, and the communication unit 511 forwards data received from the broadcasting device 100 to the terminal 10. This allows the terminal 10 to communicate with the broadcasting device 100 via the information terminal 11.

The short-range communication unit 514 performs short-range wireless communication with the terminal 10 using the communication device 204. Note that the functional configuration of the information terminal 11 shown in FIG. 5 is an example. For example, the information terminal 11 may have a wireless LAN communication unit that communicates with the terminal 10 via wireless LAN communication instead of (or in addition to) the short-range communication unit 514.

(Functional configuration of distribution device)
6 is a diagram showing an example of a functional configuration of a distribution system according to an embodiment. The distribution device 100 realizes a communication unit 601, a content providing unit 602, an information management unit 603, a storage unit 604, an information collecting unit 605, a generating unit 606, an extracting unit 607, a privilege providing unit 608, a distribution unit 609, and the like, by executing a predetermined program on one or more computers 200. Note that at least a part of the above functional configurations may be realized by hardware.

The communication unit 601, for example, uses the communication device 204 to connect the distribution device 100 to the communication network N and performs communication processing to communicate with information terminals 11a, 11b, 11c, ... and information terminal 20, etc.

The content providing unit 602 executes a content providing process for providing content provided by the organizer side to the information terminals 11a, 11b, 11c, etc. For example, the content providing unit 602 distributes content such as video received from the organizer side information terminal 20 to the information terminals 11a, 11b, 11c, etc. Alternatively, the content providing unit 602 may distribute recorded content stored in the storage unit 604 or a server on the communication network N to the information terminals 11a, 11b, 11c, etc.

The information management unit 603 stores and manages the setting conditions 611 of the organizer or participant, and the participant information 612, etc. in the storage unit 604. For example, the information management unit 603 has a function of a web server that provides a web page for setting the setting conditions 611 or the participant information 612, etc. to the information terminal 11 or the information terminal 20, etc., and stores the set setting conditions 611 or the participant information 612, etc. in the storage unit 604, etc.

The storage unit 604 is realized, for example, by a program executed by the processor 201 and the storage device 203, and stores various information such as the setting conditions 611 and the participant information 612. As another example, the storage unit 604 may be realized by a storage server or the like provided outside the distribution device 100.

The information collection unit 605 collects participant information and performer information acquired by terminals 10a, 10b, 10c, ..., and terminal 10x, etc., from information terminals 11a, 11b, 11c, ..., and information terminal 20, etc. The participant information acquired by terminal 10 includes, for example, information on the light emission color of the light-emitting element provided in terminal 10, acceleration or angular velocity information of terminal 10, press information of appeal button 303, or biometric information indicating the state of the participant. The information collection unit 605 may collect participant information acquired by terminal 10 via wireless LAN without going through information terminal 11.

The generation unit 606 generates status information indicating the status of the participant, including the information acquired by the terminal 10 and time information collected by the information collection unit 605. Here, the time information is information such as the time (timestamp) at which the terminal 10 acquired the participant information, the time at which the terminal 10 transmitted the participant information, or the time at which the distribution device 100 received the participant information. Note that if the information collected by the information collection unit 605 already includes time information (such as a timestamp), the information collected by the information collection unit 605 may be used as the status information.

The extraction unit 607 performs an extraction process to extract participants using a terminal 10 that satisfies the set condition 611 based on the information acquired by the terminal 10 collected by the information collection unit 605.

The reward provision unit 608 executes a reward provision process to provide a reward to the participant (extractor) extracted by the extraction unit 607.

The distribution unit 609 executes a distribution process to distribute a message encouraging behavioral change according to the set conditions to participants (non-extracted participants) who are using a terminal 10 that was not extracted by the extraction unit 607.

Note that the functional configuration of the distribution device 100 shown in FIG. 6 is one example. For example, the content provision process of providing content provided by the organizer to information terminals 11a, 11b, 11c, etc. may be executed by an information processing device other than the distribution device 100. Also, the function of the generation unit 606 may be included in the information collection unit 605 or the extraction unit 607. Furthermore, the process of providing a special benefit to the extractor may be executed by, for example, another information processing device or the organizer.

(Functional configuration of the organizer's information terminal)
The organizer's information terminal 20, for example, realizes a communication unit 621, a content transmission unit 622, an operation reception unit 623, an output control unit 624, a transfer unit 625, a short-range communication unit 626, and the like by executing a predetermined program in the processor 201. Note that at least a part of the above-mentioned functional configurations may be realized by hardware.

The communication unit 621 uses the communication device 204 to connect the information terminal 20 to the communication network N and perform communication processing to communicate with the distribution device 100, etc.

The content transmission unit 622 performs a content transmission process to transmit content such as video containing the voices of performers or the sounds of musical instruments to a distribution device.

The operation reception unit 623 receives input operations by operation staff, etc., using, for example, the input device 205, etc. The output control unit 624 controls the display of the display screen, images, etc., and the output of light, vibration, etc., using, for example, the output device 206, etc.

The forwarding unit 625 executes a forwarding process in which the short-range communication unit 626 forwards data received from the terminal 10x to the broadcasting device 100, and the communication unit 621 forwards data received from the broadcasting device 100 to the terminal 10x. This allows the terminal 10x to communicate with the broadcasting device 100 via the information terminal 20. Note that the terminal 10x has, for example, the same functional configuration as the terminal 10 in FIG. 5.

The short-range communication unit 626 performs short-range wireless communication with the terminal 10x using the communication device 204. Note that the functional configuration of the organizer's information terminal 20 shown in FIG. 6 is an example. For example, the information terminal 20 may have a wireless LAN communication unit that communicates with the terminal 10x via wireless LAN communication instead of (or in addition to) the short-range communication unit 626.

In addition, the information terminal in which the operation staff or the like sets the setting conditions, etc. may be an information terminal different from the information terminal 20. In addition, the information terminal that transmits the content to the distribution device 100 may be an information terminal different from the information terminal 20.

<Processing flow>
Next, the process flow of the distribution method according to this embodiment will be described.

[First embodiment]
Fig. 7 is a flowchart showing an example of a process of the distribution system according to the first embodiment. This process shows an example of a process that is repeatedly executed by the distribution device 100 during distribution of content such as live video of music, for example, in the distribution system 1 shown in Fig. 6.

In step S701, the information management unit 603 inputs the setting conditions. For example, the information management unit 603 may display a web page for setting the setting conditions on the organizer's information terminal 20 and accept input of the setting conditions by the operation staff. Alternatively, the information management unit 603 may input the setting conditions by reading out the setting conditions 611 stored in advance in the memory unit 604.

Figure 8A shows an example of setting conditions that the information management unit 603 has stored in advance in the memory unit 604. The setting conditions 611a shown in Figure 8A are an example of organizer setting conditions set by the organizer. In the example of Figure 8A, the setting conditions 611a include information such as "content", "judgment conditions", "judgment", and "benefits or messages" as items.

"Content" is information that indicates an overview of the setting contents of the setting conditions 611a. "Judgment conditions" are judgment conditions for judging whether or not the organizer's set conditions are met. "Judgment" is the judgment result of whether or not the organizer's set conditions are met, and a judgment of "○" indicates that the judgment conditions are met. A judgment of "△" indicates that the judgment conditions are not met, but the difference with the judgment result "○" is relatively small (close). A judgment of "×" indicates that the difference with the judgment result "○" is relatively large (not close).

In the example of FIG. 8A, if the difference between the timing when the performer starts singing and the timing when the terminal 10 switches the light color to white is less than 0.2 seconds, the terminal 10 satisfies the set condition and is judged as "○". If the difference between the timing when the performer starts singing and the timing when the terminal 10 switches the light color to white is 0.2 seconds or more but less than 1 second, the terminal 10 does not satisfy the set condition but the difference from the judgment "○" is relatively small, so the judgment is "△". If the difference between the timing when the performer starts singing and the timing when the terminal 10 switches the light color to white is 1 second or more, the terminal 10 does not satisfy the set condition and the difference from the judgment "○" is relatively large, so the judgment is "×". Note that if the light color of the terminal 10 is other than white, the judgment is also "×".

"Benefit or message" indicates the processing content corresponding to "judgment". In the example of FIG. 8A, if the judgment of the terminal 10 is "○", it indicates that a benefit will be offered by lottery from among the participants using that terminal 10. Also, if the judgment of the terminal 10 is "△", it indicates that a message encouraging behavioral change will be delivered to the participants using that terminal 10, saying "Switch to white when ○○ starts singing". Note that the message encouraging behavioral change may be set to a different message depending on the judgment condition, for example, as indicated by the judgment "×". Here, the following explanation will be given assuming that the information management unit 603 has input the setting condition 611a as shown in FIG. 8A.

Returning now to FIG. 7, the explanation of the flowchart will continue. In step S702, the information collection unit 605 collects information acquired by the terminal 10. For example, the information collection unit 605 acquires participant information acquired by the terminal 10 from the information terminal 11. This participant information includes, for example, information on the light emission color of the light-emitting element provided in the terminal 10, information on the acceleration or angular velocity of the terminal 10, information on pressing of the appeal button 303, or biometric information indicating the state of the participant.

In step S703, the generation unit 606 generates the state of the participant based on the information of the participant collected by the information collection unit 605. Here, the generation unit 606 generates information indicating the time when the participant switched the light emission color of the terminal 10 to white based on the information of the participant collected by the information collection unit 605.

In step S704, the extraction unit 607 determines whether the state of the participant generated by the generation unit 606 satisfies the set condition. For example, the extraction unit 607 refers to the set condition 611a as shown in FIG. 8A and determines whether the error between the timing (time) when the performer starts singing and the timing (time) when the participant switches the light color of the terminal 10 to white is less than 0.2 seconds.

If the participant's status satisfies the set condition, the extraction unit 607 transitions the process to step S705. On the other hand, if the participant's status does not satisfy the set condition, the extraction unit 607 transitions the process to step S706.

When the process proceeds to step S705, the extraction unit 607 extracts participants whose status satisfies the set conditions as extracted participants. The bonus provider 608 (or the organizer, etc.) provides bonuses to the extracted participants by lottery, for example, according to the set conditions 611a as shown in FIG. 8A.

Examples of benefits include one-on-one fan service with the performers (conversation, etc.), gift items (autographed goods, authorized digital photos, etc.), invitations to other events (live shows on other days, after-talks, etc.), but are not limited to these.

When the process proceeds to step S706, the distribution unit 609 transmits a message encouraging behavioral change to participants (non-extracted participants) whose status does not satisfy the set condition. For example, the distribution unit 609 transmits a message encouraging behavioral change according to the set condition 611a as shown in FIG. 8A.

As a specific example, the distribution unit 609 may display a message 902 encouraging a behavioral change, such as "switch the LED to white," on the display screen 900 of the information terminal 11 displaying the distributed video 901, as shown in FIG. 9.

Preferably, the distribution unit 609 divides the non-extracted persons into multiple groups based on, for example, the setting conditions 611a as shown in FIG. 8A, and distributes messages according to the groups.

The distribution system 1 may execute the process of FIG. 7 individually for each terminal 10 included in the distribution system 1, or may execute the process of FIG. 7 collectively for multiple terminals 10.

Through the above process, participants who see a message encouraging behavioral change are expected to behave in a similar manner to other participants in order to obtain benefits. This embodiment thus enhances the sense of unity between participants taking part in the event and other participants (including performers).

Note that the setting condition 611a shown in FIG. 8A is an example, and various modifications and applications are possible. For example, in step S701 in FIG. 7, the information management unit 603 may input another setting condition 611b as shown in FIG. 8B.

In the setting condition 611b shown in Fig. 8B, the participant's status is "number of times the appeal button is pressed repeatedly within a specified period of time," and the "participant who pressed the appeal button the most times" is extracted as the selected person who satisfies the setting condition. In this case, a lottery is not required, so a special gift can be offered to the selected person who satisfies the setting condition.

Note that the setting conditions 611a shown in FIG. 8A and the setting conditions 611b shown in FIG. 8B are examples of the organizer's setting conditions set by the organizer. In addition to the organizer's setting conditions, the information management unit 603 may manage the participants' setting conditions, for example, using participant information 614 as shown in FIG. 8C.

Figure 8C shows an example of participant information 612 that the information management unit 603 stores and manages in the memory unit 604. In the example of Figure 8C, the participant information 612 includes information such as items such as "participant ID", "terminal ID", "participant type", and "participant setting information".

"Participant ID" is identification information for identifying a participant. "Terminal ID" is identification information for identifying the terminal 10 or information terminal 11 used by the participant. "Participant type" is information indicating the type of participant. In the example of Figure 8C, the "participant type" is "performer" and "audience". "Participant setting conditions" include whether or not to "receive benefits" and whether or not to "deliver messages" as setting conditions set in advance by the participant. For example, if a participant knows that it will be difficult to receive a benefit, the participant may set "receiving benefits" as not necessary. In this case, in step S704 of Figure 7, the extraction unit 607 may determine that the user's setting conditions are not met and may treat the user as a non-extracted user.

In addition, if a participant does not need a message encouraging behavioral change, the participant may set "message delivery" to "not required." In this case, in step S706 of FIG. 7, the delivery unit 609 may prohibit the delivery of a message encouraging behavioral change to the participant.

Second Embodiment
In the second embodiment, an example of a process executed by the distribution system 1 when a performer performs a performance using a terminal 10x similar to that of a participant will be described.

Fig. 10 is a flowchart showing an example of processing of the distribution system according to the second embodiment. This processing shows an example of processing repeatedly executed by the distribution device 100 when, for example, performers are waving the terminal 10 together with participants during live distribution of music or the like in the distribution system 1 shown in Fig. 6. Note that the basic processing content is similar to the processing of the distribution system according to the first embodiment described in Fig. 7, so detailed description of the processing content similar to that of the first embodiment will be omitted here.

In step S1001, the information management unit 603 inputs the setting conditions. As an example, the information management unit 603 reads out the setting conditions 611c as shown in FIG. 11 from the memory unit 604 and sets them as the setting conditions.

Figure 11 is a diagram showing an example of a setting condition according to the second embodiment. As shown in Figure 11, the setting condition 611c includes information such as "content", "judgment condition", "judgment", and "benefit or message" as items, similar to the setting conditions 611a and 611b according to the first embodiment.

In the example of Figure 11, if the error between the timing at which the participant shakes the terminal 10 and the timing at which the performer shakes the terminal 10 is less than X%, the participant's terminal 10 meets the set conditions and the result is "○". Note that X% and Y% are values (X<Y) that are preset by the organizer.

In addition, if the error between the timing at which the participant shakes the terminal 10 and the timing at which the performer shakes the terminal 10 is equal to or greater than X% and less than Y%, the participant's terminal 10 does not meet the set conditions, but the difference from the judgment of "O" is relatively small, so the judgment is indicated as "△." In addition, if the error between the timing at which the participant shakes the terminal 10 and the timing at which the performer shakes the terminal 10 is equal to or greater than Y%, the participant's terminal 10 does not meet the set conditions, but the difference from the judgment of "O" is relatively large, so the judgment is indicated as "X."

Returning now to FIG. 10, we will continue to explain the flowchart. In step S1002, the information collection unit 605 collects information acquired on the participant's terminal 10 and information acquired on the performer's terminal 10. This participant information includes, for example, information on the light emission color of the light-emitting element provided in the terminal 10, information on the acceleration or angular velocity of the terminal 10, information on pressing of the appeal button 303, or biometric information indicating the state of the participant.

In step S1003, the generation unit 606 generates the states of the participants and the states of the performers based on the information collected by the information collection unit 605. Here, the generation unit 606 generates information that integrates the acceleration and angular velocity information of the terminals 10 of the participants and the acceleration and angular velocity information of the terminals 10 of the performers within a predetermined period on the same time axis based on the information collected by the information collection unit 605.

In step S1004, the extraction unit 607 calculates the degree of agreement (or error) between the state of the participant (the timing of shaking the terminal 10) generated by the generation unit 606 and the state of the performer (the timing of shaking the terminal 10). For example, the extraction unit 607 calculates the error between the timing of the participant shaking the terminal 10 and the timing of the performer shaking the terminal 10 in accordance with the setting condition 611c of FIG. 11. Note that the error between the timing of the participant shaking the terminal 10 and the timing of the performer shaking the terminal 10 is an example of the degree of agreement between the state of the participant and the state of the performer.

In step S1005, the extraction unit 607 determines whether the calculated degree of coincidence is equal to or greater than a threshold value. For example, the extraction unit 607 determines whether the error between the timing at which the participant shakes the terminal 10 and the timing at which the performer shakes the terminal 10 is less than X%, in accordance with the setting condition 611c in FIG. 11. In this case, the extraction unit 607 determines that the degree of coincidence is equal to or greater than a threshold value when the error between the timing at which the participant shakes the terminal 10 and the timing at which the performer shakes the terminal 10 is less than X%.

If the degree of match is greater than or equal to the threshold, the extraction unit 607 transitions the process to step S1006. On the other hand, if the degree of match is not greater than or equal to the threshold, the extraction unit 607 transitions the process to step S1007.

When the process proceeds to step S1006, the extraction unit 607 extracts participants whose status satisfies the set conditions as extracted participants. The extracted participants are provided with a bonus by lottery by the bonus provider 608 (or the organizer, etc.) according to the set conditions 611c as shown in FIG. 11, for example. The method of providing the bonus may be the same as that of the first embodiment.

When the process proceeds to step S1007, the distribution unit 609 transmits a message encouraging behavioral change to participants (non-extracted participants) whose status does not satisfy the set condition. For example, the distribution unit 609 distributes a message encouraging behavioral change according to the set condition 611c as shown in FIG. 11. The method of delivering the message encouraging behavioral change may be the same as that of the first embodiment.

Through the above process, participants who see a message encouraging behavioral change are expected to behave in a similar manner to other participants in order to obtain benefits. This also makes it possible in this embodiment to enhance the sense of unity between participants taking part in the event and other participants (including performers).

[Third embodiment]
The processes of the distribution system shown in the first and second embodiments are merely examples, and various modifications and applications are possible.

Figures 12 and 13 are flowcharts showing an example of processing of a distribution system according to the third embodiment. This processing shows another example of processing repeatedly executed by the distribution device 100 during distribution of content such as live video of music, for example, in a distribution system 1 as shown in Figure 6. Note that detailed explanations of processing similar to that of the first embodiment will be omitted here.

In step S1201, the information management unit 603 inputs the setting conditions. For example, the information management unit 603 inputs the setting conditions by reading the setting conditions 611a as shown in FIG. 8A or the setting conditions 611b as shown in FIG. 8B from the storage unit 604.

In step S1202, the information collection unit 605 collects information acquired by the terminal 10. This participant information includes, for example, information on the light emission color of the light-emitting element provided in the terminal 10, information on the acceleration or angular velocity of the terminal 10, information on pressing the appeal button 303, or biometric information indicating the state of the participant.

In step S1203, the generation unit 606 generates the status of the participant based on the information of the participant collected by the information collection unit 605.

In step S1204, the extraction unit 607 determines whether the status of the participant generated by the generation unit 606 satisfies the set conditions (whether the judgment is "○").

If the participant's status satisfies the set condition, the extraction unit 607 transitions the process to step S1205. On the other hand, if the participant's status does not satisfy the set condition, the extraction unit 607 transitions the process to step S1206.

When proceeding to step S1205, the extraction unit 607 adds a predetermined number of points M (M>N) to participants whose status meets the set conditions.

When proceeding to step S1206, the extraction unit 607 determines whether the difference between the participant's status and the set condition is equal to or less than the threshold (judgment is "△") or not. If the difference between the set condition is equal to or less than the threshold (judgment is "△"), the extraction unit 607 transitions the process to step S1207. On the other hand, if the difference between the set condition is not equal to or less than the threshold (judgment is "X"), the extraction unit 607 transitions the process to step S1209.

When the process proceeds to step S1207, the distribution unit 609 distributes message A, which includes specific hints and encourages behavioral change, to participants whose difference from the set condition is equal to or less than the threshold (participants whose judgment is "△"). For example, the distribution unit 609 refers to judgment conditions 611a, 611b, etc., as shown in Figures 8A and 8B, and distributes a message corresponding to the judgment "△" to participants whose difference from the set condition is equal to or less than the threshold. In addition, in step S1208, the extraction unit 607 adds a predetermined number of points N (N < M) to participants whose difference from the set condition is equal to or less than the threshold.

On the other hand, when moving from step S1206 to step S1209, the distribution unit 609 distributes message B, which includes an abstract hint and encourages behavioral change, to participants whose difference from the set condition is not below the threshold (participants whose judgment is "X"). For example, the distribution unit 609 refers to the judgment conditions 611a, 611b, etc. as shown in Figures 8A and 8B, and distributes a message corresponding to the judgment "X" to participants whose difference from the set condition is not below the threshold. In this case, the extraction unit 607, for example, does not give additional points to participants whose difference from the set condition is not below the threshold.

When proceeding to step S1210, the extraction unit 607 determines whether or not the processing of steps S1202 to S1209 has been performed a predetermined number of times. If the processing has not been performed the predetermined number of times, the extraction unit 607 returns the processing to step S1202. On the other hand, if the processing has been performed the predetermined number of times, the extraction unit 607 proceeds to step S1211 in FIG. 13.

When the process proceeds to step S1211, the bonus provision unit 608 inputs the winning conditions. For example, the bonus provision unit 608 may display a web page for setting the set conditions on the organizer's information terminal 20, and accept input of the winning conditions by the operation staff. Alternatively, the information management unit 603 may input the set conditions by reading out the winning conditions previously stored in the memory unit 604. The winning conditions may be, for example, a bonus that corresponds to the total points added in the process of FIG. 12, or the like.

In step S1212, the reward provider 608 determines whether or not there is a participant who meets the winning conditions. If there is a participant who meets the winning conditions, the reward provider 608 transitions to step S1213. On the other hand, if there is no participant who meets the winning conditions, the reward provider 608 ends the processing of Figures 12 and 13.

When the process proceeds to step S1213, the reward provider 608 provides rewards to participants who meet the winning conditions. For example, a staff member of the organizer may announce the winners and hold an event for the winners.

[Fourth embodiment]
In the fourth embodiment, an example will be described in which the distribution system 1 provides a service to a participant who satisfies a set condition according to points held by the participant. In the fourth embodiment, the participant holds points that are granted by paying a price (hereinafter referred to as charging) by purchasing, for example, live tickets, content such as CDs and DVDs, or official goods. In addition to paying a price, the points may be granted by actions such as interactions on a social networking service (SNS) that benefit the performer. Here, interactions on a social networking service that benefit the performer include, for example, actions such as a participant publicizing a post on a new event or new product by the performer (retweet, etc.).

<Functional configuration>
Fig. 14 is a diagram showing an example of a functional configuration of a distribution system according to a fourth embodiment. The distribution system 1 according to the fourth embodiment has a functional configuration similar to that of the distribution system 1 described in Fig. 6, for example, but some functions are changed. Here, functions changed from the distribution system 1 described in Fig. 6 will be described.

The information management unit 603 has a function of a web server that provides a web page for setting participant information 612 as shown in Fig. 15 to the information terminal 11, etc., and stores the set participant information 612 in the storage unit 604, etc. The information management unit 603 also has a function of managing the points held by participants in cooperation with one or more external systems 1401.

External system 1401 is, for example, a website provided by the performer, a fan club of the performer, an online store selling merchandise related to the performer (CDs, DVDs, official goods, etc.), or a system such as SNS. Participants (fans) hold points that are awarded in external system 1401 by paying fees to the performer or by interacting with the performer on SNS in which benefits are generated for the performer.

Figure 15 is a diagram showing an example of participant information according to the fourth embodiment. As shown in Figure 15, participant information 612 according to the fourth embodiment includes additional information such as "requested fan service" 1501 and "owned points" 1502 as items compared to participant information 612 according to the first embodiment described in Figure 8C.

In the fourth embodiment, for example, a participant attending a live performance of a performer uses information terminal 11 to register the details of "requested fan service" 1501 in distribution system 1 before the live performance. Here, the information of "requested fan service" 1501 is the details of special fan service that the participant requests from the performer using points that the participant holds. Note that the special fan service that the participant can request from the performer changes depending on the points that the participant holds or the points that the participant uses.

For example, the special fan service that can be requested from the performers varies depending on the points, such as "a special performance that includes vibrations" for 100 points, "a conversation with the performer" for 500 points, or "a high-five with the performer" for 600 points. Participants can set "requested fan service" 1501 within the range of the points they have.

For the information of "Owned points" 1502, the information management unit 603 acquires points owned by the participant from the external system 1401 based on, for example, the participant ID, and stores the acquired points in participant information 612. For example, the information management unit 603 manages the participant using the same participant ID as the external system 1401, and acquires information on the points owned by the participant from the external system 1401 using the participant ID.

The reward providing unit 608 provides special fan service to the participant (extractor) extracted by the extraction unit 607 based on the "requested fan service" 1501 preset by the participant. For example, the reward providing unit 608 uses points to provide the special fan service preset by the winner to a participant (hereinafter referred to as the winner) who has been judged as "○" based on the judgment condition 611a as shown in FIG. 8A or the judgment condition 611b as shown in FIG. 8B. In addition, the reward providing unit 608 provides normal fan service (fan service consisting of only video and sound with no target selected) to participants who have not been judged as "○" based on the judgment conditions 611a, 611b, etc.

The functional configuration other than that described above may be the same as the functional configuration of the distribution system 1 described in Figure 6.

<Processing flow>
16 is a flowchart showing an example of a process of the distribution system according to the fourth embodiment. This process shows an example of a process executed by the distribution device 100 when the distribution system 1 distributes live content of a performer to multiple participants. Note that a detailed description of the process similar to that of the first embodiment will be omitted here.

In step S1601, the information management unit 603 of the distribution device 100 accepts input of setting conditions by a staff member of the organizer. As a specific example, the information management unit 603 accepts a setting condition such as "shake the stick xx times in 5 seconds" input by a staff member, and stores it as a judgment condition of the setting condition 611 as shown in FIG. 8A or FIG. 8B.

In step S1602, the information collecting unit 605 of the distribution device 100 starts an appeal time (e.g., 5 seconds) during which cheering input from participants is accepted. Preferably, the distribution device 100 displays a message indicating that the appeal time is about to start, such as "Wave your stick to cheer!", on the video content being distributed to the information terminal 11, or notifies the user by voice.

In step S1603, the information collecting unit 605 accepts cheering input from the participant to the terminal 10. For example, the information collecting unit 605 acquires from the terminal 10 the number of times the participant shook the terminal 10 during the appeal time period. In addition, in step 1604, the information collecting unit 605 ends the appeal time after a predetermined time (e.g., 5 seconds) has elapsed.

Note that the process of starting the appeal time in step S1602 and the process of ending the appeal time after a predetermined time has elapsed in step S1603 are examples. For example, as shown in steps S702 and S703 of FIG. 7, the distribution device 100 may use the generation unit 606 to generate status information indicating the status of the participant, including the information acquired by the terminal 10 and time information.

In step S1605, the extraction unit 607 of the distribution device 100 determines the behavior of the participant. For example, the extraction unit 607 determines whether the behavior of the participant corresponds to "○", "△", or "×" based on the determination condition of the set condition 611 as shown in FIG. 8A or FIG. 8B.

If the judgment in step S1605 is "X", the bonus provision unit 608 of the distribution device 100 executes the processing of steps S1606 and S1607. In steps S1606 and S1607, the bonus provision unit 608 sends a comment such as "Let's try harder next time" to the participant who is judged as "X", and provides normal fan service (fan service consisting only of video and sound with no target selected). Note that a comment such as "Let's try harder next time" is an example of a message that encourages behavioral change.

If the judgment is "△" in step S1605, the bonus provision unit 608 of the distribution device 100 executes the processing of steps S1608 and S1609. In steps S1608 and S1609, the bonus provision unit 608 sends a comment such as "That was close. Let's try harder next time" to the participant who is judged as "△" and provides normal fan service (fan service consisting only of video and sound with no target selected). Note that a comment such as "That was close. Let's try harder next time" is another example of a message encouraging behavioral change.

If the result of the judgment in step S1605 is "○", the bonus provider 608 executes the processing of steps S1610 to S1615. In step S1610, the bonus provider 608 sends a winning notification to the winner (the participant whose judgment is "○").

In step S1611, the privilege provision unit 608 notifies the performers of the winner information and the fan service requested by the winner.

In steps S1612 and S1613, the bonus providing unit 608 connects the winner's terminal 10 to a dedicated fan service line and provides the special fan service requested by the winner.

In step S1614, the information management unit 603 consumes the winner's points corresponding to the special fan service. At this time, the information management unit 603 also reflects information on the consumed points in the points managed by the external system 1401.

In step S1615, the bonus provision unit 608 disconnects the fan service dedicated line.

Through the process of FIG. 16, the distribution system 1 can provide a service to a participant who satisfies the set conditions according to the points held by the participant.
[Fifth embodiment]
In the fifth embodiment, an example will be described in which the distribution system 1 provides participants who satisfy a set condition with a performance according to the actions of the performers, such as their gestures or gazes.

<Functional configuration>
FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating an example of a functional configuration of a distribution system according to the fifth embodiment.

(Functional configuration of the organizer's information terminal)
As shown in FIG. 17, the information terminal 20 according to the fourth embodiment has a behavior detection unit 1701 in addition to the functional configuration of the information terminal 20 described with reference to FIG.

The behavior detection unit 1701 is realized, for example, by a predetermined program executed by the processor 201. The behavior detection unit 1701 detects the behavior of the performers, such as their gestures or line of sight, for example, from video of the performers captured by one or more cameras and a sensor equipped in the terminal 10x. The behavior detection unit 1701 also transmits the detected behavior of the performers to the distribution device 100. Other functional configurations of the information terminal 20 may be similar to the functional configuration of the information terminal 20 described in FIG. 6, for example.

(Functional configuration of distribution device)
The distribution device 100 according to the fifth embodiment has, for example, the same functional configuration as the distribution device 100 described in Fig. 6, but some functions are changed. Here, the description will be centered on functions that are changed from the functional configuration of the distribution device 100 described in Fig. 6.

The information management unit 603 has the function of a web server that provides a web page for setting participant information 612, such as that shown in FIG. 18, to an information terminal 11, etc., and stores the set setting conditions 611 in a memory unit 604, etc.

Figure 18 is a diagram showing an example of participant information according to the fifth embodiment. As shown in Figure 18, participant information 612 according to the fifth embodiment has information of "Participant Name" 1801 added as an item to participant information 612 according to the first embodiment described in Figure 8C. In the fourth embodiment, a participant can register the participant's name in the distribution system 1 using the information terminal 11.

The privilege provision unit 608 acquires the behavior of the performer, such as the gesture or gaze of the performer, detected by the behavior detection unit 1701 of the information terminal 20. In addition, the privilege provision unit 608 provides a performance corresponding to the gesture or gaze of the performer to the participant (extracted person) extracted by the extraction unit 607.

The functional configuration other than that described above may be the same as the functional configuration of the distribution system 1 described in Figure 6.

<Processing flow>
19 is a flowchart showing an example of processing of the distribution system according to the fifth embodiment. This processing shows an example of processing executed by the distribution device 100 when the distribution system 1 distributes live content of a performer to multiple participants. Note that detailed explanation of the processing contents similar to those of the first embodiment will be omitted here.

In step S1901, the information management unit 603 of the distribution device 100 accepts input of setting conditions by a staff member of the organizer or the like. For example, the information management unit 603 accepts a setting condition such as "shake the stick more than xx number of times" input by a staff member or the like.

In step S1902, the information collecting unit 605 of the distribution device 100 displays a text message and a gauge on the display and starts accepting cheering inputs from participants. For example, the distribution device 100 displays a message such as "Please support us!" on the video content being distributed to the information terminal 11, and also displays a gauge indicating the level of cheering inputs from participants.

In step S1903, the information collection unit 605 accepts cheering input from the participant to the terminal 10. For example, the information collection unit 605 acquires from the terminal 10 the number of times the participant repeatedly pressed a button on the terminal 10 or shook the terminal 10. In addition, in step 1904, the information collection unit 605 stops accepting cheering input after a predetermined time has elapsed.

In step S1905, the extraction unit 607 of the distribution device 100 determines whether the cheering input from the participant satisfies the setting conditions set by the staff or the like. If the setting conditions are met, the distribution device 100 executes the processing of steps S1906 to S1908. On the other hand, if the setting conditions are not met, the distribution device 100 executes the processing of steps S1906 and S1909.

In step S1906, the distribution unit 609 displays on the display the performer's gestures or behavior such as gaze in response to the cheering input.

In step S1907, the privilege provision unit 608 acquires the behavior of the performer detected by the behavior detection unit 1701 of the information terminal 20, and vibrates the participant's terminal 10 in accordance with the behavior of the performer. Note that the process of vibrating the terminal 10 is an example of a performance in accordance with the behavior of the performer. The performance in accordance with the behavior of the performer may be, for example, another performance such as making the terminal 10 emit light, heat up, or make a sound.

In step S1908, the reward providing unit 608 displays a message for the participant on the display. The reward providing unit 608 may also output the message for the participant as audio from, for example, the terminal 10 or the information terminal 11.

On the other hand, when transitioning from step S1905 or S1906 to step S1909, the distribution unit 609 sends a message to participants encouraging them to change their behavior.

By the processing of FIG. 16, the distribution system 1 can provide participants who satisfy the set conditions with a performance that corresponds to the behavior of the performers, such as the performers' gestures or gaze. Note that a performance that corresponds to the behavior of the performers, such as the performers' gestures or gaze, is an example of a special fan service.

(Example of specific processing)
Fig. 20 is a diagram (1) showing an image of the process according to the fifth embodiment. As shown in Fig. 20 (image of cheering input), the distribution device 100 may display, on the display of the information terminal 11 or the like, a message 2001 prompting the participant to input cheering, and a gauge 2002 indicating the level of the cheering input by the participant. Note that the message prompting the participant to input cheering may include a message indicating specific cheering content, such as "Please press the button repeatedly" or "Please shake the device".

This makes it easy for participants to input cheering information, for example, by repeatedly pressing a button on the terminal 10 or shaking the terminal 10, while looking at the message 2001 and gauge 2002 displayed on the display.

As shown in Fig. 20 (image of the performance provided), the distribution device 100 displays on the display of the information terminal 11 or the like an image of a performer making a gesture 2003, such as waving, in response to cheering input from a participant. The distribution device 100 also performs effects such as vibration, light emission, heat generation, etc. on the terminal 10 of the participant who has achieved the set conditions, and displays a message 2004 such as "Thank you" on the display of the information terminal 11 of the participant who has achieved the set conditions.

Figure 21 is a diagram (2) showing an image of the processing according to the fifth embodiment. The distribution device 100 may start accepting cheering input when the performer looks at the camera. For example, as shown in Figure 21 (before accepting cheering input), if the line of sight 2101 of the performer displayed on the display of the information terminal 11 or the like is not looking at the camera, the distribution device 100 does not accept cheering input from the participants. Also, for example, as shown in Figure 21 (start of accepting cheering input), when the line of sight 2102 of the performer displayed on the display of the information terminal 11 or the like looks at the camera, the distribution device 100 starts accepting cheering input from the participants.

Figure 22 is a diagram (3) showing an image of processing according to the fifth embodiment. The distribution device 100 may provide a performance to the participants when a performer makes a gesture while looking at the camera. For example, as shown in Figure 22 (when the performer is not looking at the camera), if the line of sight 2201 of a performer making a gesture 2202 such as waving is not looking at the camera, the distribution device 100 does not provide a performance to the participants. Also, for example, as shown in Figure 22 (when the performer is looking at the camera), when the line of sight 2203 of a performer making a gesture 2204 is looking at the camera, the distribution device 100 provides a performance to the participants.

As a preferred example, the distribution device 100 can display the name of the participant registered by the participant in a message 2205 displayed on the display of an information terminal 11 or the like.

Figure 23 is a diagram (4) showing an image of the processing according to the fifth embodiment. The distribution device 100 may change the light emission color of the terminal 10 based on the facial expression of the performer. For example, as shown in FIG. 23 (when the performer's facial expression is dark), when the facial expression 2302 of the performer performing a gesture 2301 such as waving his/her hand is dark (or calm), the distribution device 100 causes the terminal 10 to emit light in a cool color. Also, for example, as shown in FIG. 23 (when the performer's facial expression is bright), when the facial expression 2304 of the performer performing a gesture 2303 is bright (or excited), the distribution device 100 causes the terminal 10 to emit light in a warm color. Note that the cool color emission color and the warm color emission color are examples, and other colors may be used.

Figure 24 is a diagram (5) showing an image of the processing according to the fifth embodiment. The distribution device 100 may change the video of the performers displayed on the display, or the presence or absence of directing, etc., depending on the cheering input of the participants. For example, as shown in Figure 24 (when not cheering), if a participant has not input cheering, the distribution device 100 displays a video of the performers not looking at the camera on the display of the information terminal 11 used by the participant, etc., and does not perform any directing for the participant. Also, for example, as shown in Figure 24 (when cheering), if a participant has input cheering, the distribution device 100 displays a video of the performers looking at the camera on the display of the information terminal 11 used by the participant, etc., and performs directing for the participant.

Thus, according to the fifth embodiment, the distribution system 1 can provide participants who meet the set conditions with performances that correspond to the behavior of the performers, such as their gestures or gaze.

In this way, the processing of the distribution system in this embodiment is susceptible to various modifications and applications.

Sixth embodiment
In the first to fifth embodiments, an example has been described in which the online event is the distribution of music or the like, but the online event distributed by the distribution system 1 may also be other events, such as online lectures.

In the sixth embodiment, an example of processing will be described in which the online event distributed by the distribution system 1 is an online lecture. Note that the system configuration, hardware configuration, and functional configuration of the distribution system 1 in the sixth embodiment are basically the same as those of the first to third embodiments. However, in this case, the organizer distributes lecture videos of lecturers, etc., and the participants are students who take part in the lectures.

<Processing flow>
Fig. 25 is a flowchart showing an example of processing in a distribution system according to the sixth embodiment. This processing shows an example of processing repeatedly executed by the distribution device 100 during distribution of content such as online lectures in the distribution system 1 shown in Fig. 6. Note that the basic flow of processing is similar to the processing in the distribution system according to the first embodiment described in Fig. 7, and therefore detailed description of the processing similar to that in the first embodiment will be omitted here.

In step S1401, the information management unit 603 inputs the setting conditions. For example, the information management unit 603 may display a web page for setting the setting conditions on the organizer's information terminal 20 and accept input of the setting conditions by the operation staff. Alternatively, the information management unit 603 may input the setting conditions by reading out the setting conditions previously stored in the memory unit 604. Examples of the setting conditions according to the sixth embodiment will be described later.

In step S1402, the information collecting unit 605 collects information acquired by the terminal 10. For example, the information collecting unit 605 acquires information on the students (participants) acquired by the terminal 10 from the information terminal 11. This student information includes, for example, information on the light emission color of the light-emitting element provided in the terminal 10, information on the acceleration or angular velocity of the terminal 10, information on pressing of the appeal button 303, or biometric information indicating the state of the student.

In step S1403, the generation unit 606 generates the status of the student (participant) based on the information collected by the information collection unit 605. For example, the generation unit 606 generates information such as the time when the student switched the light emission color of the terminal 10 and the light emission color, the time when the student shook the terminal 10, or the number of times the appeal button was pressed repeatedly within a specified time, according to the setting conditions input in step S1401.

In step S1404, the extraction unit 607 determines whether the status of the student generated by the generation unit 606 satisfies the set conditions input in step S1401. If the status of the student satisfies the set conditions, the extraction unit 607 transitions the process to step S1405. On the other hand, if the status of the student does not satisfy the set conditions, the extraction unit 607 transitions the process to step S1406.

When the process proceeds to step S1405, the extraction unit 607 extracts students whose status satisfies the set conditions as extracted students. The instructor or the reward provision unit 608 provides rewards to the extracted students according to the set conditions described below.

On the other hand, when proceeding to step S1406, the distribution unit 609 distributes a message encouraging behavioral change to participants (non-extracted participants) whose status does not satisfy the set conditions, in accordance with the set conditions described below.

(Examples of judgment conditions)
Fig. 26A shows an example of the judgment conditions input by the information management unit 603 in step S1401 in Fig. 25. As shown in Fig. 26A, the setting conditions according to the sixth embodiment include information such as "content", "judgment conditions", "judgment", and "benefit or message" as items, similar to the setting conditions 611a and 611b according to the first embodiment.

In the judgment condition 611d of Fig. 26A, if the answer to the question posed by the instructor is "white" and the terminal 10 selects the white light emission color within 10 seconds after the instructor's signal, the terminal 10 satisfies the set condition and the judgment is "○". Also, if the terminal 10 selects a light emission color other than white within 10 seconds after the instructor's signal, the terminal 10 does not satisfy the set condition and the judgment is "△". Furthermore, if there is no response from the terminal 10 within 10 seconds after the instructor's signal, the terminal 10 does not satisfy the set condition and the judgment is "X".

In addition, the judgment condition 611d in FIG. 26A indicates that if the judgment of the terminal 10 is "○", a special benefit will be provided to the student (participant) using the terminal 10. An example of a special benefit to be provided may be a reduction in homework when it is judged that the student understands the content. However, this is not limited to this. In addition, if the judgment of the terminal 10 is "△", it indicates that a message "The correct answer is white. Let's review XX" will be delivered to the student using the terminal 10 as a message encouraging behavioral change. Furthermore, if the judgment of the terminal 10 is "×", it indicates that a message "Please answer within the time limit" will be delivered to the student using the terminal 10 as a message encouraging behavioral change.

Figure 26B shows another example of a judgment condition input by the information management unit 603 in step S1401 of Figure 25.

In the judgment condition 611e of FIG. 26B, when a student wants to ask a question, he or she shakes the terminal 10 to signal. If the student shakes the terminal 10 for a specified time, the terminal 10 satisfies the set condition, and the judgment is "○". If the student shakes the terminal 10 for less than the specified time, the terminal 10 does not satisfy the set condition, but the judgment is "△" because the difference between the judgment and "○" is relatively small. If there is no response from the terminal 10, the terminal 10 does not satisfy the set condition, and the difference between the judgment and "○" is relatively large, and the judgment is "×".

In addition, the judgment condition 611e in FIG. 26B indicates that if the judgment of the terminal 10 is "○", questions from the students using the terminal 10 will be accepted as a special benefit. In addition, if the judgment of the terminal 10 is "△", a message "Shake your device for more than 5 seconds" will be sent to the students using the terminal 10 as a way to encourage behavioral change. Furthermore, if the judgment of the terminal 10 is "×", a message "Shake your device if you have any questions" will be sent to the students using the terminal 10 as a way to encourage behavioral change.

As an example of application, if there is no response from the terminal 10 beyond a preset allowable time, the lecturer or the reward provision unit 608 may determine that the student is not listening to the lecture, is away from his/her seat, or is asleep, and may give the student a negative reward (such as homework).

Figure 26C shows another example of a judgment condition input by the information management unit 603 in step S1401 of Figure 25.

In the judgment condition 611f of FIG. 26C, when the instructor requests an answer, the student taps the appeal button 303 repeatedly to show that he/she can answer. It also indicates that the student who taps the appeal button the most times within a specified time meets the set condition, and is judged as "○". It also indicates that a student who taps the appeal button less than 10 times more than the student who taps the appeal button the most within a specified time does not meet the set condition, but the difference between the judgment and "○" is relatively small, and so the judgment is "△". It also indicates that a student who taps the appeal button more than 10 times more than the student who taps the appeal button the most within a specified time does not meet the set condition, and the difference between the judgment and "○" is relatively large, and so the judgment is "×".

In addition, the judgment condition 611f in FIG. 26C indicates that if the student's judgment is "○", the answer of the student will be accepted as a bonus. In addition, if the student's judgment is "△", the message "Too close! Only 10 more tries to be number one" will be sent to the student as a message encouraging a behavioral change. In addition, if the student's judgment is "×", the message "Appeal more to the instructor" will be sent to the student as a message encouraging a behavioral change.

In this way, the distribution system 1 of this embodiment can be applied to various usage scenarios by setting the configuration conditions.

As described above, according to each embodiment of the present invention, a system can be provided that enhances the sense of unity between participants in various events held online and other participants.

This application claims priority to basic application No. 2021-211812, filed with the Japan Patent Office on December 27, 2021, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications or applications are possible within the scope of the gist of the present invention described in the claims. For example, the shape of the terminal 10 may be other than a stick shape, such as a shape that can be worn on a finger or arm, or that can fit in the hand.

1 Distribution system 10, 10a to 10c, 10x Terminal 11, 11a to 11c Information terminal 20 Information terminal 200 Computer 301 Full color LED (light emitting element)
REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 100 Distribution device 501 Change unit 502 First detection unit 503 Second detection unit 504 Third detection unit 604 Storage unit 606 Generation unit 607 Extraction unit 609 Distribution unit 611, 611a to 611f Setting condition 902 Message

Claims (14)

A distribution system including a distribution device and a terminal used by a participant,
A storage unit that stores set conditions that the participants must satisfy;
an extraction unit that extracts participants who use the terminal and who satisfy the set condition based on the information acquired by the terminal;
a distribution unit that distributes a message encouraging behavioral change to a non-extracted person who is using a terminal not extracted by the extraction unit among the participants, in accordance with the set condition;
A distribution system having the above configuration. the terminal has a change unit that changes a light emission color of a light emitting element included in the terminal in response to an operation of the participant;
The information acquired by the terminal includes information on the light emission color of the light emitting element.
The distribution system according to claim 1 . the terminal has a first detection unit that detects an acceleration or an angular velocity of the terminal;
The information acquired by the terminal includes information on the acceleration or angular velocity of the terminal.
The distribution system according to claim 1 . the terminal has a second detection unit that detects pressing of a button provided on the terminal,
The information acquired by the terminal includes information on pressing the button, the number of times the button was pressed, or the pressing speed.
The distribution system according to claim 1 . the terminal has a third detection unit that acquires biometric information;
The information acquired by the terminal includes the biometric information.
The distribution system according to claim 1 . a generating unit that generates information indicating a state of the participant, the information including the information acquired by the terminal and time information;
The extraction unit extracts participants whose status information satisfies the set condition.
A distribution system according to any one of claims 1 to 5. The distribution system according to claim 1 , wherein the extraction unit extracts the participant who satisfies the set condition based on a degree of coincidence between the status of the participant and the statuses of other participants. 6. The distribution system according to claim 1 , further comprising a bonus provision unit that provides a participant who satisfies the set conditions with a service according to points held by the participant. The distribution system of claim 8, wherein the points held by the participant change according to the charge made by the participant. The distribution system according to claim 1 , further comprising a special offer unit that offers a special effect corresponding to a gesture or a line of sight of a performer to a participant who satisfies the set condition. The system according to claim 1 , wherein the delivery unit delivers the message including information for the non-extractor to satisfy the set condition. The distribution unit is
Dividing the non-extracted persons into a plurality of groups based on the set conditions;
Delivering the message according to the group;
A distribution system according to any one of claims 1 to 5 . In a distribution system including a distribution device and a terminal used by a participant,
A process of storing the participant's setting conditions;
An extraction process for extracting participants who use the terminal and who satisfy the set condition based on the information acquired by the terminal;
A process of delivering a message encouraging behavioral change to non-extracted participants who are using the terminals not extracted in the extraction process, according to the set conditions;
A computer-implemented, delivery method. A program for causing a computer to execute the distribution method according to claim 13.

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