JP5115260B2 - Content distribution apparatus, content distribution system, and content distribution method. - Google Patents

Description

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

  In recent years, with the spread of broadband, systems that handle audio and video in real time, such as IP telephony, video conferencing, and video distribution, are spreading.

  As related technology, there is Patent Literature 1. In Patent Document 1, a terminal device requests a content distribution subsystem to establish a session, and a SIP (Session Initiation Protocol) session control subsystem acquires information on a band necessary for viewing the content from the content distribution subsystem. Then, the SIP session control subsystem requests the bandwidth control subsystem to reserve the bandwidth of the bandwidth value included in the bandwidth information, and the content distribution subsystem sends the content to the terminal device using the bandwidth secured by the bandwidth control subsystem. Is disclosed.

  In addition, Patent Document 2 distributes program video data by streaming distribution at the same time that the video distribution apparatus distributes the advertisement video data by the download method. A technique is disclosed in which a viewer terminal reproduces program video data and reproduces advertisement video data stored in a video recording unit at a designated reproduction time.

  In Patent Document 3, when a transmission device distributes content by a download method or streaming distribution, the user charges through the reception device when the user desires to shorten the download time or improve the image quality. The transmitting apparatus confirms the charging and discloses a technique for allocating a bandwidth corresponding to the charging amount to the user.

  Further, Patent Document 4 identifies whether or not a user desires information distribution when an exchange installed in an IP network starts an IP telephone call. And when a user desires information delivery, the technology which the user can utilize information, such as an advertisement, during an IP call is disclosed by setting an information delivery zone | band separately from a voice zone | band. .

  Here, the content is a set of information composed of video, audio, or incidental information stored in one or more files, for example. Specifically, it is a program such as entertainment, education, news, or a movie. The content includes a main content such as a program or a movie, an advertisement, a video such as a public notice, audio, or partial content such as incidental information. In the following description, “content” or “partial content” indicates “content” or “partial content” described here.

JP-A-2005-12655 JP2004-159057 JP-A-2005-51486 JP 2003-298739

However, from the above four patent documents, for example, when transmitting important partial contents that do not want to deteriorate the image quality, it is not possible to automatically change the band for distributing the contents.

Patent Document 1 has a configuration in which a band is set when a user selects content, and the content is continuously received in the band from time to time. Since Document 2 has a configuration in which an important scene is extracted from each video data and the important scene is distributed by a download method, it cannot be applied to real-time moving image distribution. Moreover, since the viewer terminal has a configuration for identifying a flag attached to an important scene in Patent Document 2, the transmission apparatus cannot identify whether the scene is an important scene.

  Furthermore, since Patent Document 3 has a configuration in which a bandwidth is allocated when the user desires to shorten the download time or improve the image quality arbitrarily, the content distribution side intentionally avoids the degradation of the image quality. Not applicable. Even if the user desires to shorten the download time or improve the image quality, the terminal does not have a configuration for automatically recognizing the content and shortening the download time or improving the image quality. Must be directed at.

  And since patent document 4 is a structure which provided only the audio | voice band and the information delivery band separately, the image quality will deteriorate by the congestion of a network etc. also in the scene which does not want to deteriorate important information or image quality.

  Accordingly, one of the objects of the present invention is to provide a content distribution system and a content distribution device capable of automatically changing a band for distributing contents when transmitting specific partial contents that do not want to deteriorate image quality. And providing a content distribution method.

  The content distribution system of the present invention includes, for example, a content identification unit for identifying a specific partial content from the content, a resource request unit for requesting a change in a band for transmitting the specific partial content, and the bandwidth change request Receiving means for receiving and band changing means for changing the band.

In addition, the communication server of the present invention includes, for example, a transmission unit that transmits content, a content identification unit that identifies a specific partial content, and a resource request unit that requests a change in a band for transmitting the specific partial content. The session control apparatus according to the present invention includes, for example, a receiving unit that receives a bandwidth variation request and a bandwidth variation for flowing the particular partial content. Control means for preserving the bandwidth in preference to the other communication in which the specific partial content does not flow.

  Further, the content distribution method of the present invention, for example, when transmitting content, transmits the content, identifies a specific partial content from the content, requests a change in the bandwidth for transmitting the specific partial content, The bandwidth is changed according to the change request, and the specific partial content is transmitted through the changed bandwidth.

  According to the present invention, when transmitting a specific partial content that does not want to deteriorate the image quality, the band for automatically distributing the content can be changed.

Embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. However, such a form does not limit the technical scope of the present invention. In the drawings, only the components necessary for describing the embodiment are described.
(Embodiment 1)
The first embodiment is a content distribution system having a configuration as shown in FIG.

  The content distribution system according to the first embodiment has a configuration in which, for example, the content identification unit 1 identifies specific partial content, and the resource request unit 2 instructs to change the bandwidth when the specific partial content is distributed. is doing.

  Therefore, when a specific partial content is transmitted, the bandwidth can be automatically expanded without involvement of the communication device used by the user, so that the image quality does not deteriorate due to network congestion or the like. It is possible to provide important information and scenes intended by the person who is transmitting the message to the user.

  First, the configuration of the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. However, FIG. 20 shows only the configuration necessary for the description of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 20, the content distribution system according to the first embodiment includes a content identification unit 1, a resource request unit 2, a reception unit 3, a band variation unit 4, or a transmission unit 5.

  Next, the operation of the first embodiment will be described.

  When the content identification unit 1 detects a specific partial content, for example, a band necessary for distribution of the specific partial content is checked from a list stored in a storage unit (not shown). Then, the resource request unit 2 requests the receiving unit 3 to change the bandwidth (S106).

  The bandwidth changing unit 4 changes the bandwidth in accordance with the bandwidth change request sent from the resource requesting unit 2.

  In addition, here, the delivery method of content delivery in the first embodiment may be a streaming delivery method, or any method for delivering content.

From the above, as one of the remarkable effects of the content distribution system according to the first embodiment, for example, when transmitting a specific partial content that does not want to deteriorate the image quality, the band can be automatically changed. Play.
(Embodiment 2)
The second embodiment is a content distribution system having a configuration as shown in FIGS.

  In the content distribution system according to the second embodiment, for example, the content identification unit 41 of the first communication server 40 identifies a specific partial content, and changes the bandwidth when the specific partial content is distributed to the session control device 30. It has the structure which directs to.

  Therefore, when specific partial content is transmitted from the first communication server, the bandwidth can be automatically expanded without involvement of the communication device 10 used by the user. It is possible to provide the user with important information and scenes intended by the person who is transmitting the content without deterioration.

  First, the configuration of the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. However, FIG. 1 and FIG. 3 show only the configuration necessary for the description of the present invention. The content distribution system of Embodiment 2 has the bandwidth control apparatus 20, the session control apparatus 30, the 1st communication server 40, and the network 50 as FIG.

  Based on a request from the session control device 30, the bandwidth control device 20 controls a device such as a router in the network 50 on the path between the communication device 10 and the first communication server 20 to secure a bandwidth through which content passes. can do. Specifically, the bandwidth control device 20 may be resource admission control subsystem (RACS).

  FIG. 2 shows the configuration of the session control device 30. The session control device 30 includes a receiving unit 31 and a control unit 32.

  The receiving unit 31 can receive a bandwidth variation request from the first communication server 40.

  The control means 32 can control session establishment / termination between the communication device 10 and the first communication server 20 by using the bandwidth control device 20. Here, the session may refer to, for example, a path through which voice and moving images are exchanged. In addition, the session control device 30 can instruct the bandwidth control device 20 to reserve a bandwidth necessary for distributing the content requested from the first communication server 20. Further, the session control device 30 may specifically be an IMS (IP Multimedia Subsystem).

  The first communication server 40 establishes a session with the communication device 10 in cooperation with the session control device 30 using SIP (Session Initiation Protocol).

  Here, the configuration of the first communication server 40 will be described with reference to FIG. The first communication server 40 includes content identification means 41, resource request means 42, and transmission means 43.

  The content identification unit 41 determines whether the content to be distributed is a specific partial content. As a content identification method, for example, an identifier or the like may be given to the content. In addition, as a content identification method, a file name of a content to be transmitted, a difference between distribution servers, or metadata attached to the content may be used. Then, a table that associates whether the content is a specific partial content or band information necessary for transmitting the content is stored in a storage unit (not shown), and the specific part is It is possible to determine whether the content is present and to request a necessary bandwidth.

  The resource request means 42 requests the session control device 30 for a bandwidth necessary for distributing the specific partial content. Here, the first communication server 40 may store a list in which a specific partial content and a necessary band are associated with each other in a storage unit (not shown).

  The transmission unit 43 transmits content or specific partial content to the communication device 10 through the network 50.

  The first communication server 40 controls the distribution of specific partial contents by using a video distribution control protocol such as RTCP (Real-time Transport Control Protocol) after the bandwidth is secured, and also performs RTP (Real-time). A specific partial content is distributed to the communication device 10 using a video distribution protocol such as time transport protocol.

  The network 50 includes devices such as a router, a SIP server, a registrar server, or a proxy server. The network 50 also has a function of performing QoS control such as securing a designated communication bandwidth in response to a request from the bandwidth control device 20.

  Here, the communication device 10 may be a general-purpose PC (Personal Computer) or the like, or may be a dedicated PC or a communication terminal provided as an STB (Set Top Box). Furthermore, the communication device 10 may be a wireless communication terminal.

  The communication device 10 can acquire the content desired by the user from the first communication server 40 via the network 50 and display it on an output device such as a display by the user's operation. Specifically, when acquiring content from the server 40, the communication device 10 establishes a session based on a session control protocol such as SIP. Then, the communication device 10 secures a band necessary for content reception in cooperation with the first communication server 40 and the session control device 30.

  Next, the operation of the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

  The communication device 10 requests the session control device 30 to establish a session with the first communication server 40 using SIP (S100).

  The session control device 30 establishes a session in response to a session establishment request from the communication device 10 (S101). Then, the bandwidth controller 20 is instructed to secure a bandwidth for content distribution in the established session (S102). Here, the first communication server 40 may request the session control device 30 to make a session establishment request.

  The bandwidth control device 20 secures the bandwidth according to the instruction from the session control device (S103), and notifies the first communication server 40 to that effect. Then, content distribution is started from the transmission means 43 of the first communication server 40 to the communication device 10 (S104). Here, the content distribution from the first communication server 40 may be configured to be distributed after receiving the content distribution request from the communication device 10.

  When the content identification unit 41 of the first communication server 40 detects the specific partial content (S105), for example, a bandwidth required for distribution of the specific partial content is checked from a list stored in a storage unit (not shown). Then, the resource request means 42 of the first communication server 40 requests the session control device 30 to change the bandwidth (S106).

  The session control device 30 requests the bandwidth control device 20 to change the bandwidth in accordance with the bandwidth change request sent from the first communication server 40 (S107). The bandwidth control device 20 changes the bandwidth in accordance with an instruction from the session control device 30 (S108), and notifies the first communication server 40 of that fact. Then, the first communication server 40 distributes the specific partial content after confirming that the bandwidth has changed (S109).

  Here, in the second embodiment, the configuration is shown in which the first communication server requests the bandwidth variation when detecting the specific partial content. However, when the first communication server detects a specific partial content, it may be configured to preferentially secure resources such as the CPU and file access of the first communication server 40.

  In addition, here, the delivery method of content delivery in the second embodiment may be a streaming delivery method, or any method for delivering content.

  Further, here, the role of the session control device and the bandwidth control device of the present embodiment may be played by the QoS control device 100 as shown in FIG.

  From the above, as one of the prominent effects of the content distribution system of the second embodiment, for example, when transmitting a specific partial content that does not want to deteriorate the image quality, the bandwidth corresponding to the data is automatically increased, Or, there is an effect that it can be reduced.

Further, in an effort type network, there is an effect that a band for transmitting a specific partial content can always be secured so as not to deteriorate the image quality.
(Embodiment 3)
The third embodiment is a content distribution system having a configuration as shown in FIGS.

  In the second embodiment, for example, the first communication server 40 detects a specific partial content and is necessary for transmitting the specific partial content by comparing with a list stored in a storage unit (not shown). I examined the bandwidth.

  One of the features of Embodiment 3 is that, for example, the specific partial content has bandwidth information necessary for its own transmission, and the content identification unit 61 of the first communication server 60 transmits itself from the specific partial content. In other words, it has a configuration that extracts information on a bandwidth necessary for the transmission and instructs the session control device 30 to change the bandwidth.

  With this configuration, in the third embodiment, the first communication server 60 does not need to have a storage unit, and the band information is dynamically or flexibly changed from the second embodiment by including band information in each specific partial content. It can be performed.

  First, the configuration of the third embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. However, FIGS. 6 and 7 show only the configuration necessary for the description of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 6, the content distribution system according to the third embodiment includes a bandwidth control device 20, a session control device 30, a first communication server 60, and a network 50. Here, the apparatus etc. which attach | subject the code | symbol same as Embodiment 2 has the structure and operation | movement similar to Embodiment 2. FIG.

  FIG. 7 shows the configuration of the first communication server 60. The first communication server 60 includes content identification means 61, resource request means 42, and transmission means 43. Here, the resource request unit 42 and the transmission unit 43 have the same configuration and operation as in the second embodiment.

  In addition to the configuration and operation of the second embodiment, the content identification unit 61 can extract band information included in specific partial content. Here, the specific partial content is configured to incorporate the bandwidth information into an appropriate portion that can include bandwidth information, such as an IP header, a UDP header, an RTP header, or RTP data.

  Next, the operation of the third embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. Here, since the operation | movement which attached | subjected the code | symbol same as Embodiment 2 except S205 performs the operation | movement similar to Embodiment 2, description is abbreviate | omitted.

  When the content identification means 61 of the first communication server 60 detects the specific partial content by the means shown in the second embodiment or the like, the content identification means 61 obtains information on the band necessary for transmitting the specific partial content from the specific partial content. Extract (S205).

From the above, as one of the remarkable effects of the content distribution system of Embodiment 3, band information is given to each specific partial content, for example, packet data, and the first communication server 60 extracts the band information from the packet data. Thus, there is an effect that the bandwidth can be changed more dynamically and flexibly.
(Embodiment 4)
The fourth embodiment is a content distribution system having a configuration as shown in FIGS.

  In the said Embodiment 2, the example which the 1st communication server 40 has a content identification means and a resource request | requirement means was shown, for example.

  One of the features of the fourth embodiment is that, for example, the communication apparatus 100 includes a content identification unit and a resource request unit.

  With this configuration, in the fourth embodiment, the first communication server 40 does not need to include a content identification unit and a resource request unit, and automatically recognizes that the communication device 100 receives a specific partial content, thereby degrading the image quality. When a specific partial content that is not desired to be transmitted is transmitted, the band can be automatically changed.

  First, the configuration of the fourth embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 9 and 10. However, FIG. 9 and FIG. 10 show only the configuration necessary for the description of the present invention. The content delivery system of Embodiment 4 has the communication apparatus 100, the bandwidth control apparatus 20, the session control apparatus 30, the 1st communication server 40, and the network 50 as FIG. 9 refers. Here, the apparatus etc. which attach | subject the code | symbol same as Embodiment 2 has the structure and operation | movement similar to Embodiment 2. FIG.

  However, the first communication server 40 may be configured not to include the content identification unit 41 and the resource request unit 42.

  FIG. 10 shows the configuration of the communication apparatus 100. The communication device 100 includes a content identification unit 101 and a resource request unit 102. Further, the communication device 100 has a configuration capable of confirming the progress of the content, for example, storing information on the order of the content transmitted from the first communication server 40 in a storage unit (not shown). Furthermore, the communication device 100 does not illustrate a correspondence table in which the content transmitted from the first communication server 40, whether the content is a specific partial content, and band information for transmitting the content are associated with each other. It is stored in the storage means. The correspondence table may be obtained by the communication device 100 from the first communication server 40.

  The content identification means 101 can confirm the progress and detect that the content sent next is a specific partial content.

  The resource request unit 102 acquires bandwidth information necessary for transmitting the specific partial content according to the correspondence table, and requests the session control device 30 to secure the bandwidth.

  Next, the operation of the fourth embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. Here, since the operation | movement which has attached | subjected the code | symbol same as Embodiment 2 except S501 and S502 performs the operation | movement similar to Embodiment 2, description is abbreviate | omitted.

  The content identification unit 101 of the communication device 100 confirms the progress of the content sent from the first communication server 40, and detects whether the content sent next is a specific partial content (S501). .

  If it is a specific partial content, the resource request unit 102 of the communication device 100 acquires bandwidth information necessary for transmitting the specific partial content from the correspondence table stored in the storage unit (not shown), A bandwidth change request is made to the session control device 30 (S502).

From the above, as one of the prominent effects of the content distribution system of Embodiment 4, it is not necessary for the first communication server 40 to include a content identification unit and a resource request unit, and the communication device 100 receives specific partial content. Can be automatically recognized, and the band can be automatically changed when transmitting a specific partial content that does not want to deteriorate the image quality.
(Embodiment 5)
The fifth embodiment is a content distribution system having a configuration as shown in FIGS.

  One of the features of the fifth embodiment is that, for example, when the receiving means 31 of the session control device 70 receives a bandwidth change request from the first communication server 40, the control means 72 of the session control device 70 has reserved the bandwidth. The communication (communication other than between the first communication server 40 and the communication device 10) is referred to, and it is confirmed whether there is other communication in which a specific partial content is to be distributed in the bandwidth reservation for other communication. And if the control means 72 detects the other communication which is not going to flow a specific partial content, it can secure the zone | band between the 1st communication server 40 and the communication apparatus 10 with priority over other communication.

  With such a configuration, the fifth embodiment can secure a bandwidth with priority over other communications, and can transmit specific partial content without impairing image quality.

  First, the structure of Embodiment 5 is demonstrated using FIG.12 and FIG.13. However, FIGS. 12 and 13 show only the configuration necessary for the description of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 12, the content distribution system of the fifth embodiment includes a bandwidth control device 20, a session control device 70, a first communication server 40, and a network 50. Here, the apparatus etc. which attach | subject the code | symbol same as Embodiment 2 has the structure and operation | movement similar to Embodiment 2. FIG.

  FIG. 13 shows the configuration of the session control device 70. The session control device 70 includes a receiving unit 31 and a control unit 72. Here, the receiving means 31 has the same configuration and operation as in the second embodiment.

  In addition to the configuration and operation of the second embodiment, when the receiving unit 31 of the session control device 70 receives a bandwidth change request from the first communication server 40, the control unit 72 of the session control device 70 makes a bandwidth reservation. The other communication that is being performed is referred to, and it is confirmed whether or not the specific partial content is being streamed in the other communication. And if the control means 72 detects that other communication is not going to flow a specific partial content, it will give priority to the band variation request | requirement between the said 1st communication server 40 and the communication apparatus 10 over the other communication. Is instructed to secure the bandwidth control device 20.

  Here, as a method for determining whether or not the bandwidth request received by the control means 72 is a bandwidth request for flowing a specific partial content, the following method can be considered. For example, an identifier indicating that the request is for sending a specific partial content to the bandwidth change request from the first communication server 40 is given. Alternatively, there is a method in which the session control device 70 stores a correspondence table in which a file name is associated with whether or not the file is a specific partial content in a storage unit (not shown). However, the present invention is not limited to these, and any method can be used as long as it can determine whether or not the bandwidth request received by the control means 72 is a request based on a specific partial content.

  Next, the operation of the fifth embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. Here, since the operation | movement which attached | subjected the code | symbol same as Embodiment 2 except S301 performs the operation | movement similar to Embodiment 2, description is abbreviate | omitted.

  When the receiving means 31 of the session control device 70 receives the bandwidth variation request from the first communication server 40, the control means 72 of the session control device 70 refers to other communication that has reserved the bandwidth, and the other communication is specified. To check whether or not the partial content is being streamed. And if the control means 72 detects that other communication is not going to flow a specific partial content, it will take priority over the other communication and will respond to the bandwidth variation request between the said 1st communication server 40 and the communication apparatus 10. The bandwidth controller 20 is instructed to secure the bandwidth (S301).

  Here, as a means for preferentially securing a band over other communications, the configuration in which priority is given by the session control device 70 is shown in the fifth embodiment. Or you may provide the structure which gives a priority to the band control apparatus 20. FIG. In other words, the session control device instructs the bandwidth control device to secure the bandwidth in the order in which the bandwidth requests are received, and when the bandwidth control device actually secures the bandwidth, priority is given to the bandwidth request for flowing a specific partial content. It can also be set as the structure processed to.

  From the above, as one of the remarkable effects of the content distribution system of the fifth embodiment, there is an effect that specific partial contents can be transmitted without being affected by other communications and without impairing the image quality. .

Further, in the fifth embodiment, the function of the session control device is added to the configuration and operation of the second embodiment. However, the function of the session control device of the fifth embodiment is added to the configuration and operation of the third or third embodiment. You can also.
(Embodiment 6)
The sixth embodiment is a content distribution system having a configuration as shown in FIG.

  Free contents such as TV broadcasts and Internet video distribution are generally provided to viewers free of charge by obtaining advertisement fees from advertisers by inserting advertisements into programs. That is, the advertiser pays the price to the broadcasting station or the content distributor by the viewer watching the advertisement. Accordingly, the broadcast station or content distributor is required to display the advertisement with a certain quality or higher on the viewer's terminal.

  Here, one of the features of the sixth embodiment is that the first communication server 40 detects an advertisement as specific partial content, requests a bandwidth change for the advertisement, and the session control device 70 preferentially uses the bandwidth. Can be assigned.

  Therefore, in response to the above problem, the broadcast station or content distributor provides the advertisement to the user without degrading the image quality by automatically transmitting the advertisement to the communication device 90 via the bandwidth that has been widened. I can do it.

  First, Embodiment 6 will be described with reference to FIG. However, FIG. 15 shows only the configuration necessary for the description of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 15, the content distribution system of the sixth embodiment includes a communication device 90, a bandwidth control device 20, a session control device 70, a first communication server 40, a network 50, and a second communication server 80. Here, the apparatus etc. which attach | subject the code | symbol same as Embodiment 2 thru | or Embodiment 5 has the structure and operation | movement similar to Embodiment 2 thru | or Embodiment 5. FIG.

  The second communication server 80 is generally configured as a WWW (World Wide Web) server, and distributes content information to the communication device 10. Here, the content information is an electronic program guide of content that can be viewed by the user, session information of content desired by the user, content distribution order, file name, identifier indicating whether the partial content is the main part or an advertisement, or content or partial content This refers to a playlist having the bandwidth information and the like, meta information related to the content, and the like.

  As shown in FIG. 17, the communication device 90 includes a control unit 91. When the user obtains the content, the control unit 91 accesses the second communication server 80, which is a WWW server, by using HTTP (Hyper Text Transfer Protocol) or HTTPS (Hypertext Transfer Protocol Security), and the user can obtain the content desired by the user. It has a function of acquiring session information, play list, meta information about contents, and the like.

  Next, the operation of the sixth embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

  The control unit 91 of the communication device 90 acquires session information such as a URL or SIP address for accessing the first communication server 40 from the second communication server 80, and meta information such as a playlist or content title ( S400). Here, the play list describes, for example, a video distribution order as shown in FIG. According to the example of FIG. 17, it means that the communication device 90 receives distribution in the order of chapter 1 as the main part, cm3 as the advertisement, chapter 2 as the main part, and cm3 as the advertisement.

  Using the session information acquired from the second communication server 80, the communication device 90 requests the session control device 70 to establish a session with the first communication server 40 via SIP (S401).

  The session control device 70 establishes a session with the first communication server 40 via SIP based on a request from the communication device 90 (S402). In addition, the session control device 70 requests the bandwidth control device 20 to secure a bandwidth for video distribution control in the session between the communication device 90 and the first communication server 40 (S403).

  The bandwidth control device 20 secures a bandwidth in accordance with a request from the session control device 70 (S404), and when it is secured, notifies the first communication server 40 of that fact.

  When the communication device 90 successfully establishes a session with the first communication server 40, the communication device 90 requests the first communication server 40 to start content distribution using the video distribution control protocol. Distribution is started (S405). At this time, the communication device 90 requests the first communication server 40 to distribute the video in the order of the playlist as shown in FIG. Here, the configuration in which the communication device 90 makes a content distribution start request to the first communication server 40 has been described above. However, after the session is established without making the start request, the first communication server 40 receives the content. It is good also as a structure to deliver.

  The content identification unit 41 of the first communication server 40 identifies whether the distribution content is an advertisement. An example of the identification method is shown below, but the identification method is not limited to this.

  Identify whether the video is the main story or an advertisement from the file name of the video to be distributed. The storage means of the first communication server 40 (not shown) stores in advance a file name as shown in FIG. 18 and information about whether it is a main video or an advertisement. For example, when the communication device 90 requests to distribute the video of chapter 1, the storage unit of the first communication server 40 is inquired to identify that chapter 1 is the main video. Further, for example, when the communication device 90 requests to distribute the cm3 video, the storage unit of the first communication server 40 is inquired to identify that cm3 is an advertising video.

  Or it is good also as a structure which identifies whether delivery content is an advertisement from the difference in the server which delivers an image | video.

  Here, consider a case where the video distributed by the first communication server 40 is detected as the main part.

  The resource request means 42 does not secure special resources such as delivery at best effort, or transmits the current bandwidth. Alternatively, the resource requesting means 42 pre-loads the bandwidth required for video distribution from the bandwidth currently reserved in the session control device 70 according to FIG. Detect predetermined bandwidth information. In order to secure this bandwidth, it may be configured such that a resource request such as a bandwidth change request is made to the session control device 70. Specifically, for example, the main part can be distributed with SD image quality (resolution 640 × 480) 6 Mbps.

  Next, consider a case where the video distributed by the first communication server 40 is detected as an advertisement.

  The resource request means 42 of the first communication server 40 obtains bandwidth information necessary for transmitting this advertisement according to FIG. 18 stored in the storage means (not shown), and is currently secured in the session control device 70. The bandwidth change required for the advertisement video or the preferential reservation is requested from the existing bandwidth (S407). Here, when advertisement video distribution is detected, it may be configured to preferentially secure resources such as the CPU of the first communication server 40 and file access. Further, a packet class control such as DiffServ (Differentiated Services) can be performed.

  The receiving means 31 of the session control device 70 receives the bandwidth variation request from the first communication server 40. The control means 72 of the session control device 70 refers to another communication that has reserved the bandwidth, and confirms whether the other communication is about to play the advertisement video. And if the control means 72 detects that other communication is not going to play an advertising image | video, it will give priority to the band change request | requirement between the said communication apparatus 90 and the 1st communication server 40 over the other communication. The bandwidth control device 20 is instructed to ensure (S408).

  The bandwidth control device 20 performs bandwidth variation in accordance with the above instruction from the session control device 70 (S409). When the bandwidth can be secured, the bandwidth control device 20 notifies the first communication server 40 to that effect.

  Here, the configuration for preferentially securing the bandwidth is provided in the session control device 70 in the above. However, a configuration may be provided in which priority is given to the bandwidth control device 20.

  The first communication server 40 confirms that the bandwidth has been changed, and then distributes the advertisement (S410). Specifically, for example, the advertisement can be distributed with HD image quality (resolution 1280 × 720/1920 × 1080) 10 Mbps.

  When the distribution of the content ends, the communication device 90 and the first communication server 40 end the session and release the reserved bandwidth (S411).

  Here, in the sixth embodiment, the configuration in which the first communication server includes the content identification unit and the resource request unit is shown. However, as in the fourth embodiment, the communication device 90 may include a content identification unit and a resource request unit. In the case of this embodiment, the communication device 90 obtains an example of a playlist as shown in FIG. 19 from the second communication server 80. In addition, the session control device, the bandwidth control device, the proxy server, or the home gateway may include a content identification unit.

As described above, in the sixth embodiment, the first communication server 40 detects an advertisement as a specific partial content, requests a bandwidth change for the advertisement, and the session control device 70 can preferentially allocate the bandwidth. . Therefore, as one of the remarkable effects of the content distribution system of the sixth embodiment, in the sixth embodiment, the broadcasting station or the content distributor automatically transmits the advertisement to the communication device 90 through the band that has been automatically expanded, thereby improving the image quality. There is an effect that an advertisement can be provided to the user without deterioration.

It is a figure which shows the structure of the content delivery system of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the structure of the session control apparatus of the content delivery system of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the structure of the 1st communication server of the content delivery system of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows operation | movement of the content delivery system of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the structure of the content delivery system of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the structure of the content delivery system of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the structure of the 1st communication server of the content delivery system of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows operation | movement of the content delivery system of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the structure of the content delivery system of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the structure of the communication apparatus of the content delivery system of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows operation | movement of the content delivery system of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the structure of the content delivery system of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the structure of the session control apparatus of the content delivery system of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows operation | movement of the content delivery system of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the structure of the content delivery system of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows operation | movement of the content delivery system of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the corresponding | compatible table of the content delivery system of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the corresponding | compatible table of the content delivery system of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the corresponding | compatible table of the content delivery system of one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the structure of the content delivery system of one Embodiment of this invention.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Content identification means 2 Resource request means 3 Reception means 4 Bandwidth variation means 5 Transmission means 10 Communication apparatus 20 Bandwidth control apparatus 30 Session control apparatus 31 Reception means 32 Control means 40 First communication server 41 Content identification means 42 Resource request means 43 Transmission Means 50 Network 60 First communication server 61 Content identification means 70 Session control device 72 Control means 80 Second communication server 90 Communication device 91 Control means 100 Communication device 101 Content identification means 102 Resource request means 110 QoS control device

Claims (9)

A first communication server for delivering content, a bandwidth control device for controlling a bandwidth for delivering the content, and a session control device,
The first communication server is
Transmitting means for transmitting content to the communication device using a predetermined band;
Content identifying means for identifying specific partial content from the content;
If the content identification means detects the partial contents, and a resource request means for requesting the change of the band for transmitting the partial content,
The band control device comprises a bandwidth variation hands stage performing band vary according to the request of the resource requesting unit,
The session control device refers to a bandwidth reservation status between the first communication server and another communication device to determine whether or not the partial content is scheduled to be distributed. Including instruction means for instructing the bandwidth changing means to change bandwidth in preference to communication,
The content distribution system, wherein the transmission unit transmits the partial content using a band changed by the band changing unit. A first communication server that distributes content; a bandwidth control device that controls a bandwidth for distributing the content; a communication device that receives distribution of the content; and a session control device.
The first communication server includes transmission means for transmitting content to a communication device using a predetermined band,
The communication device is
Content identifying means for identifying specific partial content from the content;
A resource requesting unit for requesting a change in a band for transmitting the partial content when the content identification unit detects the partial content;
The bandwidth control device includes bandwidth variation means for performing bandwidth variation in response to a request from the resource request means,
The session control device refers to a bandwidth reservation status between the first communication server and another communication device to determine whether or not the partial content is scheduled to be distributed. Including instruction means for instructing the bandwidth changing means to change bandwidth in preference to communication,
The content distribution system, wherein the transmission unit transmits the partial content using a band changed by the band changing unit. And a storage unit that associates and holds a file name for identifying the partial content and band information regarding a band in which the partial content is to be transmitted,
The content identification means refers to the storage unit, specifies the partial content based on the file name,
Said resource request unit requests the change of bandwidth based on the bandwidth information corresponding to the partial content identified, the content distribution system according to claim 1 or 2. The partial content includes band information regarding a band to be transmitted,
The content distribution system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the resource requesting unit requests a change in bandwidth based on bandwidth information included in the partial content. And a second communication server that distributes information about the content,
The information related to the content includes information for accessing the first communication server,
The content distribution system according to any one of claims 1 to 4 , wherein the partial content is an advertisement. The content identification means, the partial content to ensure the resources of the first communication server when it detects the content delivery system according to any one of claims 1, 3 to 5. Furthermore, a band securing means for securing a band for distributing the content is provided,
The content distribution system according to any one of claims 1 to 6 , wherein the transmission unit starts transmission of the content using a band secured by the bandwidth securing unit. A transmission step in which the first communication server transmits content to the communication device using a predetermined bandwidth;
A content identification step in which the first communication server identifies specific partial content from the content;
When the first communication server detects the partial content in the content identification step, a resource request step for requesting a change in a band for transmitting the partial content;
A bandwidth control step for controlling the bandwidth for distributing the content, a bandwidth change step for changing the bandwidth in response to a request in the resource request step ;
The session control device refers to the bandwidth reservation status between the first communication server and another communication device, determines whether or not the partial content is scheduled to be distributed, and other communication that is not scheduled to be distributed An instruction step for instructing the bandwidth control device to perform bandwidth fluctuation in preference to
Wherein the first communication server transmits the partial contents using the bandwidth that is varied at the bandwidth variation step, the content distribution method. A transmission step in which the first communication server transmits content to the communication device using a predetermined bandwidth;
A content identification step in which the communication device identifies specific partial content from the content;
Said communication device, when the partial content in the content identification step is detected, the resource request step of requesting a variation in bandwidth for transmitting the partial content,
A bandwidth control step for controlling the bandwidth for distributing the content, a bandwidth change step for changing the bandwidth in response to a request in the resource request step;
The session control device refers to the bandwidth reservation status between the first communication server and another communication device, determines whether or not the partial content is scheduled to be distributed, and other communication that is not scheduled to be distributed An instruction step for instructing the bandwidth control device to perform bandwidth fluctuation in preference to
The content distribution method, wherein the first communication server transmits the partial content using the band changed in the band changing step .

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