JP2013115440A - Content distribution device, content reproduction device, content distribution system, content distribution method, control program, and recording medium - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To efficiently use network resources in a network environment including a communication network, a broadcasting network, etc.SOLUTION: When distributing to a content reproduction device 2 a data stream including packetized contents, instead of packets constituting a redistribution content scheduled to be redistributed, a link to the redistribution content is transmitted.

Description

  The present invention relates to a content distribution device, a content reproduction device, a content distribution system, a content distribution method, a control program, and a recording medium that distribute and reproduce content.

  In recent years, real-time distribution of large-capacity contents and provision of new services have been performed with the broadbandization of the Internet network and the digitalization of broadcasting infrastructure. In addition, the integration of communication and broadcasting will enable new services and more efficient use of network resources.

  As a new service by integration of communication and broadcasting, for example, there is one described in Patent Document 1. Patent Document 1 discloses a technique that allows a user to select and reproduce another CM program acquired via the Internet or the like, instead of the CM program being broadcast, in the reproduction of a television broadcast. .

JP 2010-87979 A (released on April 15, 2010)

  However, since the amount of data that can be distributed by radio waves or communication is limited, it is difficult to distribute higher-capacity content or provide higher-quality services using the current communication protocol and file format. There is a problem.

  For example, regarding broadcasting, content such as CM is normally repeatedly transmitted every time the same video data is broadcast. As described above, even if the data is the same, since all data is always transmitted using broadcast radio waves, it cannot be said that broadcast resources are effectively used at present.

  Note that the technique described in Patent Document 1 allows a user to freely select content, but does not consider efficient use of network resources.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above-described problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a content distribution apparatus and content that use network resources more efficiently in a comprehensive network environment including a communication network and a broadcast network. A reproduction apparatus, a content distribution system, a content distribution method, a control program, and a recording medium are realized.

  In order to solve the above problems, a content distribution device according to the present invention is a content distribution device that distributes a data stream including packetized content, and is a transmission unit that transmits the data stream to a content reproduction device. Instead of the packet group constituting the redistributed content scheduled to be distributed again, a transmission means for transmitting a link to the redistributed content is provided.

  In addition, the content distribution method according to the present invention is a content distribution method for distributing a data stream including packetized content in order to solve the above-mentioned problem, and transmitting the data stream to a content reproduction device In this case, a transmission step of transmitting a link to the redistributed content is included instead of the packet group constituting the redistributed content scheduled to be distributed again.

  According to said structure, the said transmission means transmits the link to the said redistribution content instead of the packet group which comprises the redistribution content scheduled for a second time distribution. When receiving the link, the content reproduction device that receives and reproduces the content from the content distribution device acquires and reproduces the redistributed content based on the link.

  For this reason, the content distribution apparatus can cause the content reproduction apparatus to reproduce the redistributed content without transmitting the redistributed content that is scheduled to be distributed a plurality of times each time. That is, it is possible to reduce the load on the transmission path through which the data stream is transmitted. Therefore, the content distribution apparatus has an effect that content can be distributed more efficiently using network resources.

  In the content distribution apparatus according to the present invention, the transmission unit transmits a link to the redistribution content and alternative data different from the redistribution content instead of the packet group constituting the redistribution content. It is preferable to do.

  According to the above configuration, the transmission means transmits the link to the redistributed content and the substitute data instead of the packet group constituting the redistributed content scheduled to be distributed again. When receiving the link from the content distribution device, the content reproduction device that receives and reproduces the content acquires and reproduces the redistributed content based on the link and receives the substitute data.

  For this reason, the content distribution apparatus can cause the content reproduction apparatus to reproduce the redistributed content without transmitting the redistributed content that is scheduled to be distributed a plurality of times each time. Furthermore, the content distribution apparatus can distribute new data (alternative data) different from the redistributed content to the content reproduction apparatus without excessive use of network resources.

  In other words, the content distribution apparatus can increase the amount of data to be virtually distributed without increasing the load on the transmission path through which the data stream is transmitted. Therefore, the content distribution apparatus has an effect that content can be distributed more efficiently using network resources.

  In the content distribution apparatus according to the present invention, it is preferable that the substitute data includes a part or all of a packet group constituting a subsequent content reproduced after the redistributed content.

  According to the above configuration, the transmitting means may replace a part of the packet group constituting the redistributed content with a part or all of the packet group constituting the subsequent content reproduced after the redistributed content together with the link. Send. The content reproduction device receives a part or all of a packet group constituting the subsequent content as alternative data, and reproduces the subsequent content based on the received data stream and the alternative data.

  For this reason, the content distribution apparatus transmits the substitute data by using the free band of the redistributed content, and thus is reproduced after the redistributed content without increasing the load on the transmission path on which the data stream is transmitted. The quality of subsequent content can be improved.

  In the content distribution apparatus according to the present invention, it is preferable that the substitute data includes a part or all of a packet group constituting a data broadcast content reproduced together with subsequent content after the redistributed content.

  According to said structure, the said transmission means replaces with the packet group which comprises redistributed content, and the packet which comprises the data broadcast content reproduced | regenerated with the subsequent content reproduced | regenerated after the said redistributed content with the said link Send part or all of the group. The content reproduction device receives a part or all of a packet group constituting the data broadcast content as alternative data, and then transmits the data broadcast content reproduced together with the subsequent content based on the received data stream and the alternative data. Reproduce.

  For this reason, the content distribution apparatus transmits the substitute data by using the free band of the redistributed content, and thus is reproduced after the redistributed content without increasing the load on the transmission path on which the data stream is transmitted. It is possible to improve the quality of data broadcast content that is reproduced together with subsequent content.

  In the content distribution apparatus according to the present invention, the substitute data preferably includes an electronic program guide.

  According to said structure, the said transmission means transmits an electronic program guide with the said link instead of the packet group which comprises redistributed content. The content playback apparatus receives the electronic program guide as substitute data, and then plays back the electronic program guide based on the received data stream and the substitute data.

  For this reason, the content distribution apparatus transmits the substitute data by using the free band of the redistributed content, and thus is reproduced after the redistributed content without increasing the load on the transmission path on which the data stream is transmitted. The quality of the electronic program guide can be improved.

  In the content distribution apparatus according to the present invention, it is preferable that the substitute data includes a control command for a controlled apparatus controlled by the content distribution apparatus.

  According to said structure, the said transmission means transmits the control command with respect to the to-be-controlled device controlled by the said content delivery apparatus with the said link instead of the packet group which comprises redistributed content. When the content reproduction apparatus receives the link, the content reproduction apparatus acquires and reproduces the redistributed content based on the link. At the same time, the controlled device receives the substitute data and executes a predetermined process based on the control command.

  For this reason, the content distribution device transmits the substitute data using the free bandwidth of the redistributed content, so that the content reproduction device can normally transmit the content without increasing the load on the transmission path on which the data stream is transmitted. As well as causing the controlled device to execute predetermined processing based on the control command.

  In the content distribution apparatus according to the present invention, it is preferable that the substitute data includes a part or all of other redistribution contents stored in the redistribution content management apparatus that provides the redistribution contents.

  According to the above configuration, the transmitting means replaces the packet group constituting the redistributed content with the link, and other redistributed content stored in the redistributed content management device that provides the redistributed content. Send some or all. When the content reproduction apparatus receives the link, the content reproduction apparatus acquires and reproduces the redistributed content based on the link. At the same time, the redistributed content management apparatus receives the substitute data and acquires a part or all of the other redistributed content.

  For this reason, the content distribution device transmits the substitute data using the free bandwidth of the redistributed content, so that the content reproduction device can normally transmit the content without increasing the load on the transmission path on which the data stream is transmitted. , And a part or all of the other redistributed content can be transmitted to the redistributed content management apparatus.

  In order to solve the above problems, a content reproduction apparatus according to the present invention is a content reproduction apparatus that reproduces packetized content included in a data stream, and receives a data stream distributed from the content distribution apparatus. And means for acquiring the redistributed content with reference to the link when the data stream received by the receiving means includes a link to the redistributed content scheduled to be distributed again. And a reproducing means for reproducing by replacing the link included in the data stream received by the receiving means with a group of packets constituting the redistributed content acquired by the acquiring means.

  In addition, a content playback method according to the present invention is a content playback method for playing back packetized content included in a data stream in order to solve the above-described problem, and receiving a data stream distributed from a content distribution device And when the data stream received in the receiving step includes a link to the redistributed content scheduled to be distributed again, the redistributed content is acquired with reference to the link. An acquisition step, and a reproduction step of reproducing the link included in the data stream received in the reception step with a packet group constituting the redistributed content acquired in the acquisition step. It is said.

  According to the above configuration, when the receiving unit receives a link to redistributed content scheduled to be distributed again, the acquiring unit refers to the link to acquire the redistributed content, and the reproducing unit However, instead of the link included in the data stream, reproduction is performed based on the packet group constituting the redistributed content.

  Therefore, the content reproduction apparatus can reproduce the redistributed content by receiving the redistributed content by referring to the link without receiving the redistributed content scheduled to be distributed a plurality of times each time. . That is, the content reproduction apparatus can reproduce content normally and reduce the load on the transmission path through which the data stream is transmitted. Therefore, the content reproduction apparatus can reproduce the content more efficiently using the network resource.

  In the content reproduction apparatus according to the present invention, when the data stream received by the receiving unit includes a link to a re-distributed content that is scheduled to be distributed again, the acquiring unit includes the link. The redistribution content is obtained by reference, and the redistribution content is stored in the storage unit in association with the link. The reproduction means includes a link included in the data stream received by the reception means. When the redistributed content associated with is stored in the storage unit, it is preferable that the link is reproduced by replacing the link with a packet group constituting the redistributed content read from the storage unit.

  According to the above configuration, the acquisition unit stores the acquired redistributed content in the storage unit in association with the link. When the redistribution content associated with the link received by the reception unit is stored in the storage unit, the reproduction unit refers to the link and redistributes the link from the storage unit to the link. The content is read, and the link is reproduced by replacing the link with the packet group constituting the redistributed content read from the storage unit.

  Therefore, when the content reproduction apparatus has acquired the same link once, it can be read from the storage unit of the own apparatus without acquiring the redistributed content from another apparatus after the second time. Therefore, the content reproduction device can reduce the load on the transmission path through which the data stream is transmitted, and can reproduce the redistributed content without using other transmission paths when acquiring the redistributed content. Therefore, it is possible to reproduce content using network resources more efficiently.

  The content distribution system according to the present invention includes the content distribution device, the content reproduction device, the content reproduction device that reproduces the content distributed from the content distribution device, and the redistributed content. And a redistributed content management device.

  According to said structure, a content delivery system has an effect similar to the said content delivery apparatus and the said content reproduction apparatus.

  The content distribution apparatus and the content reproduction apparatus may be realized by a computer. In this case, the content distribution apparatus is operated by causing the computer to operate as each unit of the content distribution apparatus and the content reproduction apparatus. In addition, a control program for realizing the content reproduction apparatus on a computer and a computer-readable recording medium on which the control program is recorded also fall within the scope of the present invention.

  As described above, the content distribution apparatus according to the present invention is a transmission unit that transmits the data stream to the content reproduction apparatus, and instead of a packet group that constitutes re-distributed content that is scheduled to be distributed again, It is the structure provided with the transmission means which transmits the link to the said redistribution content.

  Further, the content distribution method according to the present invention is a transmission step of transmitting the data stream to the content reproduction device, and the redistribution is performed in place of the packet group constituting the redistribution content scheduled to be distributed again. A transmission step of transmitting a link to the content.

  For this reason, the content distribution apparatus can cause the content reproduction apparatus to reproduce the redistributed content without transmitting the redistributed content that is scheduled to be distributed a plurality of times each time. That is, it is possible to reduce the load on the transmission path through which the data stream is transmitted. Therefore, the content distribution apparatus has an effect that content can be distributed more efficiently using network resources.

  In addition, the content reproduction apparatus according to the present invention includes a receiving unit that receives a data stream distributed from the content distribution apparatus, and a redistributed content that is scheduled to be distributed again in the data stream received by the receiving unit. When a link is included, an acquisition unit that acquires the redistributed content with reference to the link, and a redistributed content acquired by the acquisition unit with the link included in the data stream received by the receiving unit And a reproducing means for reproducing by replacing with the packet group constituting the.

  The content reproduction method according to the present invention includes a reception step of receiving a data stream distributed from a content distribution device, and a redistribution content scheduled to be distributed again in the data stream received in the reception step. If the link is included, the acquisition step of acquiring the redistributed content with reference to the link and the link included in the data stream received in the reception step are acquired in the acquisition step. And a reproduction step of reproducing by replacing with a packet group constituting the redistributed content.

  Therefore, the content reproduction apparatus can reproduce the redistributed content by receiving the redistributed content by referring to the link without receiving the redistributed content scheduled to be distributed a plurality of times each time. . That is, the content reproduction apparatus can reproduce content normally and reduce the load on the transmission path through which the data stream is transmitted. Therefore, the content reproduction apparatus can reproduce the content more efficiently using the network resource.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. 1 illustrates a first embodiment of the present invention, and illustrates an example of a configuration of a content distribution system, and a configuration of a content distribution device and a content reproduction device included in the content distribution system. The conceptual diagram of the said content delivery system is shown. It is a figure which shows an example of the data arrangement | sequence of the stream which the said content delivery apparatus delivers. It is a figure which shows the data arrangement | sequence of the stream which the said content delivery apparatus delivers, and the example of a screen which the said content reproduction apparatus displays. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the content delivery process which the said content delivery apparatus performs. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the content reproduction process which the said content reproduction apparatus performs. It is a figure which shows the example of a sequence of the stream which the said content delivery apparatus delivers, and the data which the content reproduction apparatus which received the said stream uses for reproduction | regeneration. It is a figure which shows the example of a sequence of the stream which the said content delivery apparatus delivers, and the data which the content reproduction apparatus which received the said stream uses for reproduction | regeneration. It is a figure which shows the example of a sequence of the stream which the said content delivery apparatus delivers, and the data which the content reproduction apparatus which received the said stream uses for reproduction | regeneration. It is a figure which shows the example of a sequence of the stream which the said content delivery apparatus delivers, and the data which the content reproduction apparatus which received the said stream uses for reproduction | regeneration. FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a content distribution system and an example of a configuration of a content distribution device, a content reproduction device, and a redistribution content management device included in the content distribution system according to the second embodiment of this invention. . It is a figure which shows the example of a sequence of the stream which the said content delivery apparatus delivers, and the data which the content reproduction apparatus which received the said stream uses for reproduction | regeneration.

<Outline of the present invention>
Content that is broadcasted (not only using a communication network but also using a broadcast network) includes program content that is the main part and CM that is advertisement. Program content is usually broadcasted only once, whereas CM content is usually broadcast repeatedly many times. In addition, a part of program content may be repeatedly broadcasted over and over. For example, opening and ending of a program, promotion video of a singer, news video used in multiple programs, provided display video displaying a sponsor's logo, and the like. Thus, it is not preferable to broadcast the same content over and over again from the viewpoint of effective use of bandwidth.

  Therefore, in the present invention, redistributed content (which may be CM content or part of program content) scheduled for redistribution is stored in advance in the redistributed content management apparatus. When transmitting the data stream to the content reproduction device, the content distribution device transmits a link to the redistributed content instead of the packet group constituting the redistributed content.

  Further, when a link is included in the data stream transmitted from the content distribution apparatus, the content reproduction apparatus refers to this link and acquires the redistribution content from the redistribution content management apparatus. Then, the link included in the received data stream is replaced with the packet group constituting the acquired redistributed content, and is reproduced.

  As a result, in the transmission path used for the broadcast distribution of the data stream, it is possible to release the band that has been used for the transmission of the redistributed content. This is because the data size of the link to the redistributed content is usually smaller than the data size of the packet group constituting the redistributed content. As a result, the bandwidth required for broadcast distribution of the data stream can be narrowed. Alternatively, alternative data can be broadcasted without increasing the bandwidth required for broadcast distribution of the data stream. That is, the bandwidth can be used more effectively than before.

  The outline of the present invention will be described in a little more detail with reference to FIG. FIG. 2 is a conceptual diagram of a content distribution system including the content distribution device, content reproduction device, and redistributed content management device of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 2, the content distribution system includes a content distribution device, a content reproduction device, and a redistributed content management device.

  The content distribution device broadcasts content to the content reproduction device. For example, the content distribution device is a television broadcast device that broadcasts broadcast content via a broadcast network, a video distribution server that broadcasts content via a communication network, or the like. is there. On the other hand, the content reproduction device reproduces content acquired from the content distribution device, and is, for example, a digital television or a PC.

  The redistributed content management device is a device that holds and manages the redistributed content. In the illustrated example, the redistribution content management apparatus is a separate apparatus from the content distribution apparatus, but may be an apparatus integrated with the content distribution apparatus.

  As shown in FIG. 2, a data stream including content other than redistributed content (hereinafter referred to as “normal content”) and a link to the redistributed content is transmitted from the content distribution device, and the content playback device sequentially acquires the data stream. And play the content. Here, when the content reproduction device acquires the link, the redistributed content at the link destination is acquired from the redistributed content management device, and the content is reproduced based on the acquired redistributed content.

  An example of the data structure of the data stream distributed by the content distribution apparatus will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of a data structure of a data stream distributed by the content distribution apparatus. In FIG. 3, MPEG2-TS used in digital terrestrial television broadcasting or the like is assumed as a data stream distributed by the content distribution apparatus. However, the content encoding method is not limited to MPEG2-TS, and other encoding methods may be used.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the data stream distributed by the content distribution apparatus of the present invention is obtained by replacing a packet group constituting the CM content (redistributed content) with a link to the CM content. Since the data size of the link to the CM content is smaller than the data size of the packet group constituting the CM content, the data size of the link from the data size of the packet group to the CM content is changed as shown in FIG. Free bandwidth is created for the amount of subtraction. It is also possible to transmit other data (alternative data) using this vacant bandwidth.

  FIG. 4 shows an example in which EPG data is transmitted as substitute data using this vacant bandwidth. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a data structure of a data stream distributed by the content distribution device and a screen transition displayed by the content reproduction device. FIG. 4 shows an example in which the link is a redistribution content ID (IDXXX) that uniquely identifies the redistribution content. The redistribution content ID may be a local ID that uniquely identifies the target redistribution content in the content group existing in the redistribution content management apparatus, or a content group existing on the Internet. , A global ID (for example, URL) that uniquely identifies the target redistributed content may be used.

  As shown in FIG. 4, the content reproduction apparatus sequentially acquires data 1 to 3 constituting normal content from the content distribution apparatus and displays display videos 1 to 3. When receiving the data 4, the content reproduction device follows the link included in the data 4, acquires the distribution content from the redistribution content management device, and displays the display video 4. At this time, the content reproduction apparatus acquires and holds EPG data of other channels included in the data 4.

  Here, for example, when an instruction to display EPG information of another channel is input from the user, as shown in FIG. 4, the content playback apparatus, based on the stored EPG data of the other channel, EPG information is displayed.

  In the following, as a specific embodiment of the present invention, the case where the content distribution device and the redistribution content management device are integrated is a first embodiment, and the content distribution device and the redistribution content management device are separated. A case will be described as a second embodiment.

<First Embodiment>
First, a first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. 1 and FIGS.

[Content distribution system configuration]
FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a configuration of a content distribution system according to the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the content distribution system 3 includes a content distribution device 1 and a content reproduction device 2.

  The content distribution device 1 broadcasts content to other devices such as the content reproduction device 2. The content distribution device 1 is, for example, a server or a PC.

  The content reproduction device 2 reproduces content acquired from another device such as the content distribution device 1 or content stored in the device itself. The content playback device 2 is, for example, a digital television, a recorder, an STB (Set Top Box), a PC, a mobile phone, a game machine, a PDA (Personal Digital Assistant), a digital camera, a digital signage, or the like.

  In the present embodiment, the content distribution device 1 is a broadcast station device, and the content reproduction device 2 is a digital television. That is, it is assumed that the content distribution device 1 transmits content via the broadcast network, and the content reproduction device 2 receives content transmitted via the broadcast network. The content distribution device 1 and the content reproduction device 2 are connected via a communication network 4 (for example, the Internet network 4), and can exchange data with each other. That is, the content distribution device 1 and the content reproduction device 2 can execute content transmission / reception by both broadcasting and communication.

  In the present embodiment, since the content distribution apparatus 1 is a broadcast station apparatus and the content reproduction apparatus 2 is a digital television, the content distribution apparatus 1 and the content reproduction apparatus 2 are connected via a broadcast network and a communication network 4. However, it is not limited to this. The content distribution device 1 and the content reproduction device 2 may be connected via a plurality of networks. For example, the content distribution device 1 and the content reproduction device 2 may be connected via a mobile phone network and a communication network. Further, the content distribution device 1 and the content reproduction device 2 may be connected via two or more types of communication networks that are independent from each other.

  In the example shown in FIG. 1, the content distribution system 3 includes one content distribution device 1 and one content reproduction device 2, but the present invention is not limited to this. The content distribution system 3 may include one content distribution device 1 and a plurality of content reproduction devices 2. In addition, the content distribution system 3 may include a plurality of content distribution devices 1 and one or a plurality of content reproduction devices 2.

  In this embodiment, since the management entity of the content distribution apparatus 1 is a broadcasting station, the content distributed by the content distribution apparatus 1 is played back in real time such as a TV program, but is not limited to this. . For example, the content distributed by the content distribution device 1 may be content that the content reproduction device 2 performs streaming reproduction.

  Next, specific functions and processes of the content distribution device 1 and the content reproduction device 2 included in the content distribution system 3 will be described with reference to FIG.

[Configuration of content distribution device]
As shown in FIG. 1, the content distribution device 1 includes a content distribution device control unit 11, a content distribution device storage unit 12, a data input unit 13, a transmission unit 14, and a content distribution device communication unit 15. The content distribution apparatus 1 may include members such as an operation unit and a display unit, but the members are not shown because they are not related to the feature points of the invention.

  The data input unit 13 is an input interface for acquiring content from a content providing device (not shown). The content providing device may be any device as long as it provides the created content, acquired content, or held content to other devices. For example, the content providing device is a storage device such as a digital video, a digital camera, a digital television, a PC, a mobile phone, a PDA (Personal Digital Assistant), a game machine, or a USB (Universal Serial Bus) memory.

  The transmission unit 14 radiates (transmits) a broadcast wave on which a data stream is superimposed in space. The transmission unit 14 is, for example, a transmission antenna for television broadcasting.

  The content distribution device communication unit 15 communicates with other devices such as the content reproduction device 2 via the Internet network 4 by wireless communication means or wired communication means, and in accordance with instructions from the content distribution device control unit 11, It is an exchange.

  The content distribution device control unit 11 executes various programs by executing a program read from the content distribution device storage unit 12 to a temporary storage unit (not shown), and supervises each unit included in the content distribution device 1. Control.

  In the present embodiment, the content distribution apparatus control unit 11 includes, as functional blocks, a normal content acquisition unit 21, a normal content encoding unit 22, a redistribution content acquisition unit 23, a link generation unit 24, a link encoding unit 25, and alternative data. The configuration includes an acquisition unit 26, an alternative data encoding unit 27, a multiplexing unit 28, a content distribution unit (transmission means) 29, and a redistributed content transmission unit 30. Each functional block (21-30) of the content distribution apparatus control unit 11 has a program stored in a storage device realized by a CPU (central processing unit), such as a ROM (read only memory). This can be realized by reading out to a temporary storage unit realized by an access memory).

  The normal content acquisition unit 21 acquires normal content from the content providing device via the data input unit 13. The normal content acquisition unit 21 outputs the acquired normal content to the normal content encoding unit 22. The normal content acquisition unit 21 may store the acquired normal content in the content distribution device storage unit 12.

  The normal content encoding unit 22 receives normal content from the normal content acquisition unit 21, encodes the received normal content, and converts it into code data. The normal content encoding unit 22 outputs the encoded normal content to the multiplexing unit 28.

  The redistributed content acquisition unit 23 acquires redistributed content from the content providing apparatus via the data input unit 13. The redistribution content acquisition unit 23 outputs the acquired redistribution content to the link generation unit 24. In addition, the redistribution content acquisition unit 23 stores the acquired redistribution content in the content distribution device storage unit 12.

  The link generation unit 24 receives redistribution content from the redistribution content acquisition unit 23 and generates a link to the received redistribution content. The link generation unit 24 outputs the generated link to the link encoding unit 25.

  For example, the link generation unit 24 may generate a redistribution content identifier (for example, a redistribution content ID) that uniquely identifies the redistribution content as a link to the redistribution content. Further, the link generation unit 24 may generate a link by adding the address of the content distribution device 1 and / or the address to the redistributed content itself to the redistributed content identifier.

  The link generation unit 24 is a redistribution content reproduction command that acquires predetermined redistribution content from the content distribution apparatus 1 and instructs the reproduction of the content based on the acquired redistribution content, for example. A playback command including a link to the content may be generated.

  The link encoding unit 25 receives a link from the link generation unit 24, encodes the received link, and converts it into code data. The link encoding unit 25 outputs the encoded link to the multiplexing unit 28.

  The alternative data acquisition unit 26 acquires alternative data from the content providing apparatus via the data input unit 13. The alternative data acquisition unit 26 outputs the acquired alternative data to the alternative data encoding unit 27. The alternative data acquisition unit 26 may store the acquired alternative data in the content distribution device storage unit 12.

  The alternative data encoding unit 27 receives the alternative data from the alternative data acquisition unit 26, encodes the received alternative data, and converts it into code data. The alternative data encoding unit 27 outputs the encoded alternative data to the multiplexing unit 28.

  The multiplexing unit 28 receives the normal content and the link encoded from the normal content encoding unit 22 and the link encoding unit 25, packetizes the received data, arranges each packet in a predetermined order, and arranges the data stream. Is to be generated. At this time, the multiplexing unit 28 generates a data stream by arranging a link to the redistributed content instead of the redistributed content at a position where the redistributed content is to be arranged in the data stream arrangement order. .

  In addition, when receiving the alternative data encoded from the alternative data encoding unit 27, the multiplexing unit 28 replaces the redistributed content with the redistributed content at the position where the redistributed content is to be placed. The data stream may be generated by arranging the link and the received alternative data.

  The content distribution unit 29 transmits the data stream generated by the multiplexing unit 28 to the content reproduction device 2 via the transmission unit 14.

  When the redistribution content transmission unit 30 receives a transmission request for predetermined redistribution content from the content reproduction device 2 via the content distribution device communication unit 15, the redistribution content transmission unit 30 stores the predetermined redistribution content indicated by the request. The redistributed content read out from 31 is transmitted to the content reproduction device 2 via the content distribution device communication unit 15.

  The content distribution device storage unit 12 stores programs, data, and the like referred to by the content distribution device control unit 11. Specifically, the content distribution device storage unit 12 includes a redistribution content storage unit 31, and the redistribution content storage unit 31 stores the redistribution content acquired by the redistribution content acquisition unit 23.

[Configuration of content playback device]
As shown in FIG. 1, the content reproduction device 2 includes a content reproduction device control unit 41, a content reproduction device storage unit (storage unit) 42, a reception unit 43, a content reproduction device communication unit 44, a display unit 45, and an audio output unit 46. It has. The content reproduction apparatus 2 may include members such as an operation unit and a voice input unit, but these members are not shown because they are not related to the feature points of the invention.

  The receiving unit 43 receives a broadcast wave on which a data stream is superimposed. The receiving unit 43 is a receiving antenna for television broadcasting, for example.

  The content reproduction device communication unit 44 communicates with other devices such as the content distribution device 1 via the Internet network 4 by wireless communication means or wired communication means, and in accordance with instructions from the content reproduction device control unit 41, It is an exchange.

  The display unit 45 displays an image in accordance with an instruction from the content reproduction device control unit 41. The display unit 45 only needs to display an image in accordance with an instruction from the content reproduction device control unit 41. For example, an LCD (liquid crystal display), an organic EL display, a plasma display, or the like can be applied.

  The audio output unit 46 outputs a sound to the outside in accordance with an instruction from the content reproduction device control unit 41. The audio output unit 46 is a so-called speaker.

  The content playback device control unit 41 executes various programs by executing a program read from the content playback device storage unit 42 to a temporary storage unit (not shown), and supervises each unit included in the content playback device 2. Control.

  In the present embodiment, the content reproduction device control unit 41 includes, as functional blocks, a content acquisition unit (reception unit) 51, a determination unit 52, a redistributed content acquisition unit (acquisition unit) 53, and a content reproduction unit (reproduction unit) 54. It is the composition provided. In each of the functional blocks (51 to 54) of the content playback device control unit 41, the CPU reads a program stored in a storage device realized by a ROM or the like to a temporary storage unit realized by a RAM or the like and executes the program. This can be achieved.

  The content acquisition unit 51 acquires (demodulates) the data stream superimposed on the broadcast wave. The content acquisition unit 51 outputs the acquired data stream to the determination unit 52. The content acquisition unit 51 sequentially outputs packets constituting the demodulated data stream to the determination unit 52.

  The determination unit 52 sequentially acquires packets from the content acquisition unit 51 and determines whether or not a link is included in the acquired packets. In other words, the determination unit 52 determines whether or not the content acquisition unit 51 has acquired a link.

  If the determination unit 52 determines that the link is not included in the packet, the packet (normal content) acquired from the content acquisition unit 51 is output to the content reproduction unit 54 as it is, and the packet (normal normal) output to the content reproduction unit 54 Instruct to play the content based on (content).

  On the other hand, when the determination unit 52 determines that the link is included in the packet, the determination unit 52 outputs the link included in the packet acquired from the content acquisition unit 51 to the redistributed content acquisition unit 53. At the same time, the determination unit 52 instructs the content reproduction unit 54 to reproduce the content based on the data (redistribution content) sent from the redistribution content acquisition unit 53.

  When the content acquisition unit 51 receives the substitute data together with the link, the determination unit 52 may output the received substitute data to the content reproduction unit 54 or store it in the content reproduction device storage unit 42.

  The redistribution content acquisition unit 53 receives the link from the determination unit 52 and acquires the redistribution content of the link destination from the content distribution device 1 based on the link. The redistributed content acquisition unit 53 outputs the acquired redistributed content to the content reproduction unit 54.

  The redistributed content acquisition unit 53 may store the redistributed content acquired from the content distribution device 1 in the content reproduction device storage unit 42 in association with the link. As described above, when the redistributed content acquired once is stored in the content reproduction device storage unit 42, when the redistributed content acquiring unit 53 receives the link from the determining unit 52, the content is acquired based on the received link. The redistributed content indicated by the link may be read from the playback device storage unit 42.

  Further, the redistribution content acquisition unit 53 may acquire the redistribution content scheduled to be broadcast later by the content distribution device 1 from the content distribution device 1 in advance and store it in the content reproduction device storage unit 42. Also in this case, when the redistribution content acquisition unit 53 receives the link from the determination unit 52, the redistribution content acquisition unit 53 reads the redistribution content at the link destination from the content reproduction device storage unit 42 based on the link, and the read redistribution content is read out. The data is output to the content reproduction unit 54.

  Based on an instruction from the determination unit 52, the content reproduction unit 54 connects the packet group that configures the normal content acquired from the determination unit 52 and the packet group that configures the re-distributed content acquired from the re-distributed content acquisition unit 53. The reproduced data stream is reproduced, video (image) is displayed on the display unit 45, and audio is output from the audio output unit 46.

  Further, when the content reproduction unit 54 receives alternative data from the determination unit 52 or reads alternative data stored in the content reproduction device storage unit 42, the content reproduction unit 54 acquires the alternative data and the determination unit 52. The content may be reproduced by integrating and synthesizing the normal content or the redistributed content acquired from the redistributed content acquiring unit 53.

  The content playback device storage unit 42 stores programs, data, and the like that are referenced by the content playback device control unit 41. Specifically, the content reproduction device storage unit 42 includes a redistributed content storage unit 61 and an alternative data storage unit 62. The redistributed content storage unit 61 stores the redistributed content acquired by the redistributed content acquiring unit 53. Further, the alternative data storage unit 62 stores alternative data acquired by the content acquisition unit 51.

[Processing of content distribution device]
Next, content distribution processing executed by the content distribution apparatus 1 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a content distribution process executed by the content distribution apparatus 1.

  As shown in FIG. 5, first, the normal content acquisition unit 21, the redistributed content acquisition unit 23, and the alternative data acquisition unit 26 acquire normal content, redistributed content, and alternative data, respectively (S1). The normal content acquisition unit 21, the redistribution content acquisition unit 23, and the alternative data acquisition unit 26 respectively convert the normal content, the redistribution content, and the alternative data into the normal content encoding unit 22, the link generation unit 24, and the alternative data encoding unit. 27.

  Next, the link generation unit 24 receives the redistribution content from the redistribution content acquisition unit 23, and generates a link to the received redistribution content (S2). The link generation unit 24 outputs the generated link to the link encoding unit 25.

  The normal content encoding unit 22, the link generation unit 24, and the alternative data encoding unit 27 encode the received normal content, link, and alternative data, respectively, and convert them into encoded data (S3). The normal content encoding unit 22, the link generation unit 24, and the alternative data encoding unit 27 output the encoded normal content, link, and alternative data to the multiplexing unit 28, respectively.

  The multiplexing unit 28 receives the normal content, link, and alternative data encoded from the normal content encoding unit 22, the link encoding unit 25, and the alternative data encoding unit 27, respectively, and divides the received data into packets. Each packet is arranged in a predetermined order based on a predetermined program program to generate a data stream (S4). At this time, the multiplexing unit 28 arranges a link to the redistributed content and alternative data at a position where the redistributed content is to be arranged in a data stream arrangement order, and arranges the data stream. Is generated.

  Then, the content distribution unit 29 transmits the data stream generated by the multiplexing unit 28 to the content reproduction device 2 via the transmission unit 14 (S5).

[Processing of content playback device]
Next, content reproduction processing executed by the content reproduction device 2 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a content reproduction process executed by the content reproduction apparatus 2.

  As shown in FIG. 6, first, the content acquisition unit 51 receives packets from the content distribution device 1 via the reception unit 43, and sequentially outputs the received packets to the determination unit 52 (S11). Next, the determination unit 52 determines whether or not a link is included in the packet acquired by the content acquisition unit 51 (S12).

  Here, when a link is included in the packet acquired by the content acquisition unit 51 (YES in S12), the determination unit 52 outputs the link received from the content acquisition unit 51 to the redistributed content acquisition unit 53. At the same time, the determination unit 52 instructs the content reproduction unit 54 to reproduce the content based on the data (redistribution content) sent from the redistribution content acquisition unit 53.

  The redistribution content acquisition unit 53 acquires the redistribution content indicated by the link from the content distribution device 1 based on the link received from the determination unit 52 (S13). The redistributed content acquisition unit 53 outputs the acquired redistributed content to the content reproduction unit 54.

  Based on the instruction from the determination unit 52, the content reproduction unit 54 integrates and synthesizes the redistributed content acquired from the redistributed content acquisition unit 53, reproduces the content, and displays the video (image) on the display unit 45. Then, the voice is output from the voice output unit 46 (S14).

  On the other hand, when a link is not included in the packet acquired by the content acquisition unit 51 (NO in S12), the determination unit 52 outputs the packet (normal content) acquired from the content acquisition unit 51 to the content reproduction unit 54 as it is. Instructing the content reproduction unit 54 to reproduce the content based on the packet (normal content) output.

  Based on an instruction from the determination unit 52, the content reproduction unit 54 integrates and synthesizes the normal content acquired from the determination unit 52, reproduces the content, displays a video (image) on the display unit 45, and outputs an audio output unit. Audio is output from 46 (S15).

[Example 1-1]
Next, an example of transmitting video supplement data as substitute data in a free band will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 7 shows an example of an arrangement of data streams distributed by the content distribution apparatus 1 and data used for reproduction by the content reproduction apparatus 2 that has received the data stream.

  In FIG. 7, it is assumed that one frame includes three moving image data and one audio data. FIG. 7 shows an example of reproducing high-quality and high-quality content using alternative data.

  As shown in FIG. 7, in the data stream distributed by the content distribution apparatus 1, first, the SD quality video data (Video-a1, Video-a2, Video-a3) divided into three and the audio of stereo sound quality are included. Data (Audio-a) is arranged. Next, instead of redistributed content, links, supplementary data of HD video data and 4ch surround sound data to be transmitted later (Video-b4, Audio-b2, Video-c4, Audio-c2,...・) Is arranged. Then, after the supplementary data, four-divided HD quality video data (Video-b1, Video-b2, Video-b3) and two-divided 4-channel surround sound data (Audio-b1) are arranged. .

  The content playback apparatus 2 that receives this data stream first receives the video data (Video-a1, Video-a2, Video-a3) and audio data (Audio-a), and outputs the SD quality / stereo sound quality content. Reproduce.

  Next, the content reproduction device 2 receives the link, and acquires redistributed content via the Internet network 4 based on the received link. While the content reproduction device 2 reproduces the content based on the acquired redistributed content, supplementary data (Video-b4, Audio-b2, Video-c4, Audio-c2,...) As alternative data is reproduced. Are sequentially received, and the received supplementary data is stored in the content reproduction device storage unit.

  Then, the content reproduction device 2 receives the video data (Video-b1, Video-b2, Video-b3) and the audio data (Audio-b1), and supplement data (Video-b4, Audio-b2) is read, video data (Video-b1, Video-b2, Video-b3) and supplemental data (Video-b4) are integrated and combined to display an HD quality video on the display unit 45, The audio data (Audio-b1) and the supplementary data (Audio-b2) are integrated and synthesized, and 4ch surround sound is output from the audio output unit 46.

  In this way, by transmitting supplemental data such as moving image data or audio data to be transmitted later as alternative data, the content reproduction device 2 can reproduce content with higher image quality and higher sound quality.

  In other words, in the present invention, the substitute data may include a part of a packet group constituting the subsequent content reproduced after the redistributed content. Needless to say, the substitute data may include the entire packet group constituting the subsequent content reproduced after the redistributed content.

[Example 1-2]
Next, an example in which supplementary data of program-related data is transmitted as substitute data in the free band will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 8 shows an example of an arrangement of data streams distributed by the content distribution apparatus 1 and data used for reproduction by the content reproduction apparatus 2 that has received the data stream.

  In FIG. 8, it is assumed that one frame is composed of two moving image data, one audio data, and one program related data. Further, FIG. 8 shows an example of displaying more complete program related information using alternative data.

  As shown in FIG. 8, in the data stream distributed by the content distribution apparatus 1, first, video data (Video-a1, Video-a2), audio data (Audio-a), and program-related data (Data- a) is arranged. Next, instead of redistributed content, links and supplementary data (Data-b2, Data-c2, Data-d2, Data-e2,...) Of program-related data to be transmitted later are arranged. After the supplementary data, moving image data (Video-b1, Video-b2), audio data (Audio-b), and program-related data (Data-b1) are arranged.

  The content playback device 2 that receives this data stream first receives video data (Video-a1, Video-a2), audio data (Audio-a), and program-related data (Data-a), and displays the video. At the same time, the program related information based on the program related data (Data-a) is displayed according to the user's instruction or the like.

  Next, the content reproduction device 2 receives the link, and acquires redistributed content via the Internet network 4 based on the received link. While the content reproduction device 2 reproduces the content based on the acquired redistributed content, supplementary data (Data-b2, Data-c2, Data-d2, Data-e2,...) That is alternative data is reproduced. Are sequentially received, and the received supplementary data is stored in the content reproduction device storage unit.

  Then, the content reproduction device 2 receives the moving image data (Video-b1, Video-b2), audio data (Audio-b), and program-related data (Data-b1), and supplement data from the content reproduction device storage unit 42. (Data-b2) is read, video is displayed, and program-related data (Data-a) and supplementary data (Data-b2) are integrated and synthesized according to user instructions, etc. Is displayed.

  As described above, by transmitting supplementary data such as program-related data to be transmitted later as substitute data, the content reproduction apparatus 2 can display more enriched program-related information.

  In other words, in the present invention, the substitute data may include a part of a packet group constituting the data broadcast content reproduced together with the subsequent content after the redistributed content. Of course, the substitute data may include all of the packet groups constituting the data broadcast content that is reproduced together with the subsequent content after the redistributed content.

[Example 1-3]
Next, an example in which other channel EPG data is transmitted as substitute data in a free band will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 9 shows an example of an arrangement of data streams distributed by the content distribution apparatus 1 and data used for reproduction by the content reproduction apparatus 2 that has received the data stream.

  FIG. 9 shows an arrangement example of the data stream of channel # 2, and it is assumed that one frame is composed of two moving image data, one audio data, and one EPG data. In general, EPG data can be acquired only from the EPG data of the receiving channel. Therefore, when acquiring EPG data of another channel, it is necessary to receive that channel. Therefore, FIG. 9 shows an example in which not only EPG data of the channel being received but also EPG data of another channel is received using alternative data.

  As shown in FIG. 9, the data stream distributed by the content distribution apparatus 1 includes firstly moving image data (Video-a1, Video-a2), audio data (Audio-a), and EPG data of channel # 2. (EPG_data # 2) is arranged. Next, instead of redistributed content, links and EPG data (EPG_data # 4, EPG_data # 6, EPG_data # 8, EPG_data # 10) of other channels, which are alternative data, are arranged. After the substitute data, moving image data (Video-b1, Video-b2), audio data (Audio-b), and EPG data (EPG_data # 2) of channel # 2 are arranged.

  The content playback device 2 that receives this data stream first receives video data (Video-a1, Video-a2), audio data (Audio-a), and EPG data (EPG_data # 2) of channel # 2, In addition to displaying video, an electronic program guide for channel # 2 based on EPG data (EPG_data # 2) is displayed in accordance with user instructions and the like.

  Next, the content reproduction device 2 receives the link, and acquires redistributed content via the Internet network 4 based on the received link. While the content reproduction device 2 is reproducing the content based on the acquired redistributed content, the EPG data (EPG_data # 4, EPG_data # 6, EPG_data # 8, EPG_data # 10) of other channels as alternative data is reproduced. The received substitute data is sequentially received, and the received substitute data is stored in the content reproduction device storage unit 42.

  The content playback device 2 receives the video data (Video-b1, Video-b2), the audio data (Audio-b), and the EPG data (EPG_data # 2) of channel # 2, and the content playback device storage unit 42. EPG data of other channels (EPG_data # 4, EPG_data # 6, EPG_data # 8, EPG_data # 10) are read out, video is displayed, and EPG data of channel # 2 (EPG_data # 2) The EPG data of other channels (EPG_data # 4, EPG_data # 6, EPG_data # 8, EPG_data # 10) are integrated and synthesized, and the electronic program guide for all channels is displayed.

  As described above, by transmitting the other channel EPG data as the substitute data, the content reproduction apparatus 2 can display the electronic program guide of all the channels without receiving the other channels.

[Example 1-4]
Next, an example of transmitting an instruction signal to a device capable of receiving broadcast radio waves as substitute data in the vacant band will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 10 shows an example of an arrangement of data streams distributed by the content distribution apparatus 1 and data used for reproduction by the content reproduction apparatus 2 that has received the data stream.

  Here, for example, a weather information automatic measuring device that transmits measured weather information to a data collection device based on an instruction, or a vending machine that transmits information such as quantity and inventory sold to a data collection device based on an instruction It is assumed that an instruction signal is transmitted to, etc.

  In FIG. 10, it is assumed that one frame includes three moving image data and one audio data. FIG. 10 shows an example in which predetermined data is executed by a weather information automatic measuring device, a vending machine, or the like using alternative data.

  As shown in FIG. 10, in the data stream distributed by the content distribution apparatus 1, first, moving image data (Video-a1, Video-a2, Video-a3) and audio data (Audio-a) are arranged. Yes. Next, instead of redistributed content, links and instruction signals for weather information automatic measuring devices and vending machines that are unrelated to broadcast content are arranged. Then, after the instruction signal, moving image data (Video-b1, Video-b2, Video-b3) and audio data (Audio-b) are arranged.

  The content playback device 2 that receives this data stream first receives the video data (Video-a1, Video-a2, Video-a3) and audio data (Audio-a), and then selects the content based on the received data. Reproduce.

  Next, the content reproduction device 2 receives the link, and acquires redistributed content via the Internet network 4 based on the received link. On the other hand, the weather information automatic measuring device and the vending machine receive the instruction signal which is the substitute data while reproducing the content based on the redistributed content acquired by the content reproduction device 2, and based on the received instruction signal. Then, predetermined information is transmitted to the data collection device via a network such as the Internet.

  Then, the content reproduction device 2 receives moving image data (Video-b1, Video-b2, Video-b3) and audio data (Audio-b), and reproduces the content based on the received data.

  In this way, an instruction signal unrelated to the broadcast content is transmitted to the device capable of receiving the broadcast radio wave without interfering with the reproduction of the broadcast content executed by the content reproduction device 2 using the free band. be able to.

  That is, in the present invention, the substitute data may include a control command for the controlled device controlled by the content distribution device 1.

<Second Embodiment>
Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described based on FIG. 11 and FIG. As described above, in the second embodiment, the content distribution device and the redistribution content management device are separate. For convenience of explanation, members having the same functions as those shown in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof is omitted.

[Content distribution system configuration]
FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the content distribution system 3a according to the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 11, the content distribution system 3a according to the second embodiment includes a content distribution device 1a, a content reproduction device 2, and a redistribution content management device 5.

  The content distribution device 1a broadcasts content to other devices such as the content reproduction device 2. The content distribution device 1a is, for example, a server or a PC.

  The redistributed content management device 5 is a device that holds and manages the redistributed content. The redistributed content management apparatus 5 is, for example, a server or a PC.

  Also in this embodiment, as in the first embodiment, the content distribution device 1a is a broadcast station device, and the content reproduction device 2 is a digital television. That is, it is assumed that the content distribution device 1a transmits content via a broadcast network, and the content reproduction device 2 receives content transmitted via the broadcast network. Further, it is assumed that the content distribution device 1a, the content reproduction device 2, and the redistribution content management device 5 are connected to each other via a communication network 4 (for example, the Internet network 4) and can exchange data with each other.

  In other words, the content reproduction device 2 receives content from the content distribution device 1a via the broadcast network, and transmits and receives data via the redistributed content management device 5 and the Internet network 4. However, the connection relationship between the content reproduction device 2, the content distribution device 1a, and the redistribution content management device 5 is not limited to this, and may be connected by another network or transmission path.

  In the example shown in FIG. 11, the content distribution system 3a includes one content distribution device 1a, one content reproduction device 2, and one redistribution content management device 5. However, the present invention is not limited to this. The content distribution system 3a may include a plurality of content distribution devices 1a, content reproduction devices 2, and redistributed content management devices 5, respectively. That is, the content distribution system 3a may include one or a plurality of content distribution devices 1a, content reproduction devices 2, and redistributed content management devices 5.

  In the present embodiment, since the management entity of the content distribution apparatus 1a is a broadcasting station, the content distributed by the content distribution apparatus 1a is played back in real time such as a TV program, but is not limited thereto. . For example, the content distributed by the content distribution device 1a may be content that the content reproduction device 2 performs streaming reproduction.

  Next, specific functions and processes of the content distribution device 1a and the redistributed content management device 5 included in the content distribution system 3a will be described with reference to FIG. Note that the content reproduction device 2 has the same configuration and function as the content reproduction device 2 of the first embodiment, and a description thereof will be omitted.

[Configuration of content distribution device]
As shown in FIG. 11, the content distribution apparatus 1a includes a content distribution apparatus control unit 11a, a content distribution apparatus storage unit 12, a data input unit 13, a transmission unit 14, and a content distribution apparatus communication unit 15. The content distribution apparatus 1a may include members such as an operation unit and a display unit, but the members are not shown because they are not related to the feature points of the invention.

  The content distribution device control unit 11a performs various calculations by executing a program read from the content distribution device storage unit 12 to a temporary storage unit (not shown), and supervises each unit included in the content distribution device 1a. Control.

  In the present embodiment, the content distribution apparatus control unit 11a includes, as functional blocks, a normal content acquisition unit 21, a normal content encoding unit 22, a link encoding unit 25, an alternative data acquisition unit 26, an alternative data encoding unit 27, and a multiplex. It is the structure provided with the conversion part 28, the content delivery part (transmission means) 29, and the link acquisition part 32. FIG. In each functional block (21, 22, 25-29, 32) of the content distribution device control unit 11a, the CPU stores a program stored in a storage device realized by a ROM or the like temporarily by a RAM or the like. This can be realized by reading out to the storage unit and executing it.

  The link acquisition unit 32 acquires a link to a predetermined redistribution content from the redistribution content management device 5 via the content distribution device communication unit 15. The link acquisition unit 32 outputs the acquired link to the link encoding unit 25.

  The link encoding unit 25 receives a link from the link acquisition unit 32, encodes the received link, and converts it into code data. The link encoding unit 25 outputs the encoded link to the multiplexing unit 28.

  The content distribution device storage unit 12 stores programs, data, and the like referred to by the content distribution device control unit 11a.

[Configuration of Redistributed Content Management Device]
As shown in FIG. 11, the redistribution content management device 5 includes a redistribution content management device control unit 71, a redistribution content management device storage unit 72, a data input unit 73, and a redistribution content management device communication unit 74. . The redistributed content management apparatus 5 may include members such as an operation unit and a display unit, but these members are not shown because they are not related to the feature points of the invention.

  The data input unit 73 is an input interface for acquiring content from a content providing device (not shown). The content providing device may be any device as long as it provides the created content, acquired content, or held content to other devices. For example, the content providing device is a storage device such as a digital video, a digital camera, a digital television, a PC, a mobile phone, a PDA (Personal Digital Assistant), a game machine, or a USB (Universal Serial Bus) memory.

  The redistribution content management device communication unit 74 communicates with other devices such as the content distribution device 1a and the content reproduction device 2 via the Internet 4 by wireless communication means or wired communication means, and the redistribution content management device. Data is exchanged in accordance with an instruction from the control unit 71.

  The redistribution content management apparatus control unit 71 executes various programs by executing a program read from the redistribution content management apparatus storage unit 72 to a temporary storage unit (not shown), and also performs the redistribution content management apparatus. 5 is for comprehensively controlling each part included in 5.

  In this embodiment, the redistribution content management apparatus control unit 71 includes a redistribution content acquisition unit 81, a link generation unit 82, a link transmission unit 83, and a redistribution content transmission unit 84 as functional blocks. In each of the functional blocks (81 to 84) of the redistributed content management device control unit 71, the CPU reads a program stored in a storage device realized by a ROM or the like to a temporary storage unit realized by a RAM or the like. It can be realized by executing.

  The redistributed content acquisition unit 81 acquires redistributed content from the content providing device via the data input unit 73. The redistribution content acquisition unit 81 outputs the acquired redistribution content to the link generation unit 82. The redistributed content acquisition unit 81 stores the acquired redistributed content in the redistributed content management device storage unit 72.

  The link generation unit 82 receives the redistribution content from the redistribution content acquisition unit 81 and generates a link to the received redistribution content. The link generation unit 82 outputs the generated link to the link transmission unit 83. The link generation unit 82 may store the generated link in the redistributed content management device storage unit 72.

  For example, the link generation unit 82 may generate a redistribution content identifier (for example, a redistribution content ID) that uniquely identifies the redistribution content as a link. Further, the link generation unit 82 may generate a link by adding the address of the redistributed content management apparatus 5 to the redistributed content identifier.

  In addition, the link generation unit 82 is a redistribution content reproduction command for acquiring predetermined redistribution content from the redistribution content management device 5 and instructing reproduction of content based on the acquired redistribution content, for example, A playback command including a link to redistributed content may be generated.

  When the link transmission unit 83 receives a transmission request for a predetermined link from the content distribution device 1a via the redistribution content management device communication unit 74, the link transmission unit 83 transmits the predetermined redistribution content indicated by the request to the redistribution content management device communication. The content is transmitted to the content distribution apparatus 1a via the unit 74.

  When the redistribution content transmission unit 84 receives a transmission request for a predetermined redistribution content from the content reproduction device 2 via the redistribution content management device communication unit 74, the redistribution content transmission unit 84 converts the predetermined redistribution content indicated by the request into the redistribution content. The redistributed content read out from the storage unit 91 is transmitted to the content reproduction device 2 via the redistributed content management device communication unit 74.

  The redistributed content management device storage unit 72 stores programs, data, and the like referred to by the redistributed content management device control unit 71. Specifically, the redistribution content management device storage unit 72 includes a redistribution content storage unit 91, and the redistribution content storage unit 91 stores the redistribution content acquired by the redistribution content acquisition unit 81.

[Example 2-1]
Next, in the present embodiment, an example in which the latest CM data is transmitted as substitute data in a free band will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 12 shows an example of an arrangement of data streams distributed by the content distribution apparatus 1a and data used for reproduction by the content reproduction apparatus 2 that has received the data stream.

  In FIG. 12, it is assumed that one frame is composed of three moving image data and one audio data. In the example shown in FIG. 12, it is assumed that the redistributed content management apparatus 5 has a function of receiving broadcast radio waves. An example is shown in which the CM data (redistributed content) held by the redistributed content management apparatus 5 is updated using alternative data.

  As shown in FIG. 12, in the data stream distributed by the content distribution apparatus 1a, first, moving image data (Video-a1, Video-a2, Video-a3) and audio data (Audio-a) are arranged. Yes. Next, instead of redistributed content, links and alternative data that is the latest CM data are arranged. After the alternative data, moving image data (Video-b1, Video-b2, Video-b3) and audio data (Audio-b) are arranged.

  The content playback device 2 that receives this data stream first receives the video data (Video-a1, Video-a2, Video-a3) and audio data (Audio-a), and then selects the content based on the received data. Reproduce.

  Next, the content reproduction device 2 receives the link, and acquires redistributed content (Video-d, Audio-d) from the redistributed content management device 5 via the Internet 4 based on the received link. . On the other hand, the redistributed content management apparatus 5 plays the latest CM data (Video-e, Audio-e) as alternative data while reproducing the content (CM2) based on the redistributed content acquired by the content reproducing apparatus 2. , Video-f, Audio-f,...), And instead of the old CM data (Video-c, Audio-c,...) Stored in the redistributed content management device storage unit 72, The latest received CM data is newly stored.

  Then, the content reproduction device 2 receives moving image data (Video-b1, Video-b2, Video-b3) and audio data (Audio-b), and reproduces the content based on the received data.

  In this way, the redistributed content held by the redistributed content management device 5 can be updated without interfering with the reproduction of the broadcast content executed by the content reproducing device 2 using the free bandwidth. In addition to updating the redistributed content held by the redistributed content management apparatus 5, it is possible to store new data (add new data) in the redistributed content management apparatus 5.

  That is, in the present invention, the alternative data may include all of the other redistributed contents stored in the redistributed content management apparatus 5 that provides the redistributed contents. Of course, the alternative data may include a part of other redistributed content stored in the redistributed content management apparatus 5 that provides the redistributed content.

<Modification 1>
It may be set so that the redistributed content changes according to the number of times the content reproducing apparatus 2 has reproduced the redistributed content.

  Specifically, each time the content reproduction unit 54 of the content reproduction device 2 reproduces content based on the redistributed content, for example, the content reproduction unit storage unit 42 associates the number of reproductions with the link of the redistributed content. Store it. Then, when the redistribution content acquisition unit 53 acquires the redistribution content from the content distribution device 1 or the redistribution content management device 5, the number of reproductions is transmitted to the content distribution device 1 or the redistribution content management device 5. The content distribution device 1 or the redistribution content management device 5 identifies the redistribution content to be transmitted based on the link and the number of reproductions, and transmits the identified redistribution content to the content reproduction device 2.

  The content distribution device 1 or the redistribution content management device 5 replaces the number of reproductions transmitted from the content reproduction device 2 with a predetermined re-transmission from the content reproduction device 2 to the content distribution device 1 or the redistribution content management device 5. The redistributed content may be specified based on the number of distribution content acquisition requests. Further, in this case, the content distribution device 1 or the redistribution content management device 5 may specify the access side (content reproduction device 2 or relay device) and count the number of acquisition requests, or may not specify the access side. The number of acquisition requests may be counted as it is.

  In addition, when the redistributed content acquisition unit 53 acquires the redistributed content from the content distribution device 1 or the redistributed content management device 5, the redistributed content acquisition unit 53 sends the current date and time (reproduction date and time) to the content distribution device 1 or the redistributed content management device 5. The content distribution device 1 or the redistribution content management device 5 may specify the redistribution content to be transmitted based on the link and the date / time information.

<Modification 2>
In the second embodiment, the content based on the redistributed content reproduced by the content reproduction device 2 can be changed in real time. Specifically, it is assumed that the redistribution content management apparatus 5 can arbitrarily change the redistribution content corresponding to the link. As a result, the redistribution content management apparatus 5 can transmit any redistribution content in response to the redistribution content transmission request from the content reproduction apparatus 2. In other words, the content reproduction device 2 can reproduce any content based on the redistributed content.

  By utilizing this, the administrator of the redistributed content management apparatus 5 can cause the content reproduction apparatus 2 to reproduce any CM in real time. That is, the administrator of the redistributed content management apparatus 5 can sell the advertising space to the advertiser in real time.

<Supplement>
The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications are possible within the scope shown in the claims, and embodiments obtained by appropriately combining technical means disclosed in different embodiments. Is also included in the technical scope of the present invention.

  Finally, each block of the content distribution devices 1 and 1a and the content reproduction device 2, in particular, the content distribution device control units 11 and 11a, and the content reproduction device control unit 41 may be configured by hardware logic, You may implement | achieve by software using CPU as follows.

  In other words, the content distribution apparatuses 1 and 1a and the content reproduction apparatus 2 have a central processing unit (CPU) that executes instructions of a control program for realizing each function, a read only memory (ROM) that stores the program, and a program that stores the program. A RAM (random access memory) to be developed, a storage device (recording medium) such as a memory for storing the program and various data, and the like are provided. An object of the present invention is to provide program codes (execution format program, intermediate code program, source program) of control programs for the content distribution apparatuses 1 and 1a and the content reproduction apparatus 2 that are software for realizing the functions described above on a computer. By supplying the readable recording medium to the content distribution apparatuses 1 and 1a and the content reproduction apparatus 2, the computer (or CPU or MPU) reads and executes the program code recorded on the recording medium. Is also achievable.

  Examples of the recording medium include a tape system such as a magnetic tape and a cassette tape, a magnetic disk such as a floppy (registered trademark) disk / hard disk, and an optical disk such as a CD-ROM / MO / MD / DVD / CD-R. Card system such as IC card, IC card (including memory card) / optical card, or semiconductor memory system such as mask ROM / EPROM / EEPROM / flash ROM.

  Further, the content distribution apparatuses 1 and 1a and the content reproduction apparatus 2 may be configured to be connectable to a communication network, and the program code may be supplied via the communication network. The communication network is not particularly limited. For example, the Internet, intranet, extranet, LAN, ISDN, VAN, CATV communication network, virtual private network, telephone line network, mobile communication network, satellite communication. A net or the like is available. Also, the transmission medium constituting the communication network is not particularly limited. For example, even in the case of wired such as IEEE 1394, USB, power line carrier, cable TV line, telephone line, ADSL line, etc., infrared rays such as IrDA and remote control, Bluetooth ( (Registered trademark), 802.11 wireless, HDR, mobile phone network, satellite line, terrestrial digital network, and the like can also be used. The present invention can also be realized in the form of a computer data signal embedded in a carrier wave in which the program code is embodied by electronic transmission.

  The present invention is a content distribution device that transmits broadcast content by broadcast radio waves, a content distribution device that distributes content via the Internet network, and a content that is acquired and reproduced from these content distribution devices such as a television and a PC. It can be used for a playback device.

1, 1a Content distribution device 2 Content playback device 3 Content distribution system 4 Internet network 5 Redistributed content management device 29 Content distribution unit (transmission means)
42 Content playback device storage unit (storage unit)
51 Content acquisition unit (reception means)
53 Redistributed content acquisition unit (acquisition means)
54 Content playback section (playback means)

Claims (15)

A content distribution device for distributing a data stream including packetized content,
Transmitting means for transmitting the data stream to a content reproduction device, comprising transmission means for transmitting a link to the redistributed content instead of a packet group constituting the redistributed content scheduled for redistribution. A content distribution apparatus characterized by that.   The transmission means transmits a link to the redistributed content and alternative data different from the redistributed content instead of the packet group constituting the redistributed content. The content distribution apparatus described.   The content distribution apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the substitute data includes a part or all of a packet group constituting a subsequent content reproduced after the redistributed content.   The content distribution according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the substitute data includes a part or all of a packet group constituting a data broadcast content that is reproduced together with subsequent content after the redistributed content. apparatus.   The content distribution apparatus according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein the alternative data includes an electronic program guide.   The content delivery device according to any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein the substitute data includes a control command for a controlled device controlled by the content delivery device.   7. The substitute data according to claim 2, wherein the substitute data includes a part or all of other redistributed contents stored in a redistributed content management apparatus that provides the redistributed contents. The content distribution apparatus according to item 1. A content playback device for playing back packetized content included in a data stream,
Receiving means for receiving a data stream distributed from the content distribution device;
When the data stream received by the receiving unit includes a link to redistributed content scheduled for redistribution, an acquisition unit that acquires the redistributed content with reference to the link;
And a reproducing unit that replaces and reproduces a link included in the data stream received by the receiving unit with a packet group that constitutes the redistributed content acquired by the acquiring unit. Playback device. When the data stream received by the receiving unit includes a link to redistributed content that is scheduled to be distributed again, the acquiring unit refers to the link and acquires the redistributed content. , Storing the redistributed content in the storage unit in association with the link,
When the redistribution content associated with the link included in the data stream received by the reception unit is stored in the storage unit, the reproduction unit reads the link from the storage unit. 9. The content reproduction apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the content reproduction apparatus replaces the packet group that constitutes the packet and reproduces the packet. The content distribution device according to any one of claims 1 to 7,
The content reproduction device according to claim 8 or 9, wherein the content reproduction device reproduces the content distributed from the content distribution device;
A content distribution system comprising: a redistribution content management device in which the redistribution content is stored. A content distribution method for distributing a data stream including packetized content,
A transmission step of transmitting the data stream to a content reproduction device, the transmission step transmitting a link to the redistributed content instead of a packet group constituting the redistributed content scheduled to be distributed again A content distribution method characterized by that. A content playback method for playing back packetized content included in a data stream,
A receiving step of receiving a data stream distributed from the content distribution device;
If the data stream received in the receiving step includes a link to redistributed content that is scheduled to be distributed again, an acquisition step of acquiring the redistributed content with reference to the link;
A playback step in which the link included in the data stream received in the reception step is replaced with a packet group constituting the redistributed content acquired in the acquisition step, and played back. Playback method.   A control program for operating the content distribution apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the control program causes a computer to function as each means.   A control program for operating the content reproduction apparatus according to claim 8 or 9, wherein the control program causes a computer to function as each means.   The computer-readable recording medium which recorded the control program of at least 1 of Claim 13 and 14.

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