JP7388650B1 - servers and computer programs - Google Patents

Abstract

[Problem] To make live commerce more exciting by activating interactions between distributors in live commerce.
[Solution] A computer program includes a first area displaying a video of a first live distribution associated with a first sales target, and a second area associated with a second sales target that is the same as or corresponds to the first sales target. a second area for displaying a video image of the live distribution; a first index representing the amount of orders for the first sale target through the first live distribution; and a second area representing the amount of orders for the second sale target through the second live distribution. The terminal is made to realize a function of displaying on the display a distribution screen including a third area in which the two indicators are displayed in association with each other, and an object for ordering the first sales object or the second sales object.
[Selection diagram] Figure 1

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD This disclosure relates to servers and computer programs.

Live Commerce is a new customer service and sales method that combines live streaming and EC (E-Commerce). According to live commerce, it is possible to provide users with a purchasing experience similar to that at a physical store, regardless of location (see Patent Documents 1 and 2 and Non-Patent Document 1).

Traditional live commerce involves a single streamer selling products via live streaming.

International Publication No. 2021/106034 pamphlet JP2019-109785A

"About Live Commerce", SHOWROOM Inc., URL: https://support.showroom-live.com/hc/ja/articles/900006084866-%E3%83%A9%E3%82%A4%E3%83%96 %E3%82%B3%E3%83%9E%E3%83%BC%E3%82%B9%E3%81%AB%E3%81%A4%E3%81%84%E3%81%A6 “How to fully utilize the “VS function”! ”, 17LIVE Co., Ltd., URL: https://jp.17.live/userguide/19206/ “We are finally offering “Group Call”, a free group call function that allows up to 6 people to participate!!”, 17LIVE Co., Ltd., URL: https://jp.17.live/news/11655/

The present inventor discovered the following problem.
Live distribution connects broadcasters beyond the constraints of location (for example, see Non-Patent Documents 2 and 3). Live commerce does not take full advantage of this feature of live streaming.

The present disclosure has been made in view of these issues, and its purpose is to provide a technology that can further enliven live commerce by activating interactions between distributors in live commerce.

One aspect of the present invention relates to a computer program. This computer program includes a first area for displaying a moving image of a first live broadcast associated with a first sales target, and a second area for displaying a video of a second live broadcast associated with a second sales target that is the same as or corresponds to the first sales target. a second area for displaying a video image, a first indicator representing the amount of orders for the first sales object through the first live distribution, and a second indicator representing the amount of orders for the second sales object through the second live distribution; The terminal realizes a function of displaying on the display a distribution screen including a third area that is displayed in association with the objects, and an object for ordering the first sales object or the second sales object.

Another aspect of the invention is a server. This server relays the transmission of video data related to the first live distribution associated with the first sales target from the first distributor terminal to the viewer terminal, and also transmits video data related to the first live distribution associated with the first sales target, and 2. Means for relaying the transmission of video data related to the second live distribution associated with the sales object from the second distributor terminal to the viewer terminal, and an operation for ordering the first sales object through the first live distribution. is detected, the first index is updated, and when an operation for ordering the second sales object through the second live distribution is detected, a means for updating the second index is provided, and a predetermined termination condition is provided. and means for determining the outcome of the game based on the first index and the second index when the conditions are satisfied.

Another aspect of the invention is a computer program. This computer program provides a terminal with a function to display a distribution screen on a display including a first area in which multiple video images of multiple distributors are displayed side by side in a predetermined layout, and an object for ordering items for sale. make it happen.

Another aspect of the invention is a server. This server includes a means for receiving a request from a broadcaster's terminal over the network to send an invitation to another broadcaster to perform a live broadcast with the broadcaster on the same screen; and means for setting an associated sales target.

Another aspect of the invention is a server. This server ranks broadcasters per sales target or per sales target according to the means of providing live broadcasts associated with the sales target and an indicator representing the volume of orders for the sales target through the live broadcast. means for generating a ranking by determining the.

Note that the present invention also includes any combination of the above-mentioned constituent elements, and mutual substitution of constituent elements and expressions of the present invention among devices, methods, systems, computer programs, recording media storing computer programs, etc. It is effective as an aspect of

According to the present invention, live commerce can be made more exciting by activating interactions between distributors in live commerce.

1 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of a live commerce system according to an embodiment. 2 is a block diagram showing the functions and configuration of the user terminal in FIG. 1. FIG. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the functions and configuration of the LC server in FIG. 1. FIG. FIG. 4 is a data structure diagram showing an example of a distribution information holding unit in FIG. 3; FIG. 4 is a data structure diagram showing an example of a user information holding unit in FIG. 3; 4 is a data structure diagram showing an example of a VS information holding unit in FIG. 3. FIG. FIG. 4 is a data structure diagram showing an example of an event information holding unit in FIG. 3; 4 is a data structure diagram showing an example of a sales history holding section in FIG. 3. FIG. 4 is a data structure diagram showing an example of a ranking information holding unit in FIG. 3. FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of a series of processes in VSLC distribution. FIG. 3 is a representative screen diagram of a VSLC distribution setting screen displayed on a display of a distributor's user terminal. FIG. 4 is a representative screen diagram of a simultaneous LC distribution screen displayed on a display of a user terminal of a viewer of VSLC distribution. FIG. 7 is a representative screen diagram of a simultaneous LC distribution screen on which an object indicating the result of a game is superimposed and displayed on a display of a user terminal of a viewer of VSLC distribution. FIG. 3 is a representative screen diagram of an LC distribution screen displayed on a display of a viewer's user terminal. It is a representative screen diagram of the ranking display screen displayed on the display of the user's user terminal. FIG. 7 is a representative screen diagram of a group call LC distribution setting screen displayed on a display of a distributor's user terminal. FIG. 3 is a representative screen diagram of a simultaneous LC distribution screen displayed on a display of a user terminal of a viewer of a group call LC distribution. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of a hardware configuration of an information processing device according to an embodiment. FIG.

Hereinafter, the same or equivalent components, members, processes, and signals shown in each drawing will be denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant explanations will be omitted as appropriate. Further, in each drawing, some members that are not important for the explanation are omitted.

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of a live commerce system 1 according to an embodiment. The live commerce system 1 provides live distribution (hereinafter referred to as LC live distribution) performed for the purpose of selling products and/or services to be sold (hereinafter simply referred to as sales targets). LC live distribution is an interactive live distribution in which a distributor (also referred to as a liver or streamer) LV and a viewer (also referred to as an audience) AU can interact in real time. The live commerce system 1 includes an LC (live commerce) server 10, user terminals 20 (20a, 20b, . . .) on the side of distributors (LV1, LV2, ...), and users on the side of viewers (AU1, AU2, ...). It includes terminals 30 (30a, 30b,...). Distributors and viewers may be collectively referred to as users. The LC server 10, the user terminal 20 on the distributor side, and the user terminal 30 on the viewer side are communicably connected to each other via a network NW such as the Internet. The LC server 10 may be configured by one or more information processing devices connected to the network NW. The user terminals 20 and 30 may be, for example, a mobile terminal such as a smartphone, a tablet terminal, a laptop PC, a recorder, a portable game machine, or a wearable device, or may be a stationary device such as a desktop PC. Good too.

The live commerce system 1 includes a broadcaster LV that introduces and sells items for sale or acts as a sales intermediary, a viewer AU that orders items for sale and performs purchase procedures, and an administrator (not shown) that manages the LC server 10. ) and are involved. The distributor LV is a person who transmits content in real time by recording himself/herself introducing the sales object on his/her own user terminal 20 and uploading it to the LC server 10 as it is. The administrator provides an LC platform for LC live distribution in the LC server 10, and also mediates or manages real-time interactions between the distributor LV and the viewer AU, as well as ordering, receiving, and payment processing for sales objects. The viewer AU accesses the platform on the user terminal 30, selects a desired LC live broadcast, and views it. During this LC live broadcast, the viewer AU comments a question regarding the sales object via the user terminal 30, the broadcaster LV answers the question orally, and the answer is transmitted to the viewer AU through video and/or audio. This enables two-way communication.

In this specification, "live distribution" refers to data that enables content recorded on the user terminal 20 of the broadcaster LV to be played back and viewed on the user terminal 30 of the viewer AU in substantially real time. It may mean a transmission mode, or it may mean the distribution itself realized by such a transmission mode. Live distribution may be realized using existing live distribution technologies such as HTTP Live Streaming, Common Media Application Format, Web Real-Time Communications, Real-Time Messaging Protocol, and MPEG DASH. Live distribution includes a transmission mode in which a viewer AU can view the content with a predetermined delay while the distributor LV is recording the content. Regarding the size of the delay, at least a delay large enough to establish an exchange between the distributor LV and the viewer AU is allowed. However, live distribution is a so-called on-demand type distribution in which the entire data of the recorded content is temporarily stored on a server, and then the data is provided from the server to the user at any time upon request from the user. are distinguished.

In this specification, "video data" refers to image data (also referred to as video data) generated by the imaging function of the user terminals 20 and 30, and audio data (also referred to as audio data) generated by the audio input function of the user terminals 20 and 30. ). The video data is played back on the user terminals 20 and 30, allowing the user to view the LC live distribution. In this embodiment, data formats such as compression, decompression, encoding, decoding, and transcoding are performed after video data is generated on a distributor's user terminal until it is played on a viewer's user terminal. It is assumed that processing to change the size and specifications will be performed. Since the contents of the video data (for example, video images and audio) are not substantially changed before and after such processing, in this embodiment, the video data after such processing is The explanation will be given assuming that the video data is the same as the video data before the process. That is, when video data is generated on a distributor's user terminal and then played back on a viewer's user terminal via the LC server 10, the video data generated on the distributor's user terminal and the LC server 10 are The passing video data and the video data received and played by the viewer's user terminal are all the same video data.

In this embodiment, a plurality of LC live broadcasts, each performed by different distributors via different user terminals, are simultaneously provided to viewers through the same screen. Hereinafter, this distribution form will be referred to as simultaneous LC distribution. A plurality of LC live distributions related to simultaneous LC distribution are associated with the same or corresponding sales object. For example, in multiple LC live distributions in simultaneous LC distribution, the same sales target is introduced and orders are received. The corresponding sales objects are, for example, a plurality of different sales objects from the same manufacturer or seller.

Simultaneous LC distribution may be of the nature of competition among the participating distributors, or may be of the nature of cooperation among the participating distributors. An example of competitive simultaneous LC distribution is VSLC distribution in which one distributor and the other distributor determine the winner or loser based on the sales or number of items sold within a predetermined competition period. An example of cooperative simultaneous LC distribution is that a distributor commissioned by the vendor or manufacturer of the sales target acts as a host, invites at least one other broadcaster as a guest, and distributes the sales target through dialogue between the host and the guest. This is a group call LC distribution introducing. In group call LC distribution, viewers are recognized by the LC server 10 as viewers of the host. Note that the viewer recognition described above is an example, and in other embodiments, viewer recognition in other ways is possible.

In the example of FIG. 1, distributor LV1 and distributor LV2 participate in VSLC distribution. Streamer LV1 is conducting LC live streaming and introducing the items for sale. The user terminal 20a of the distributor LV1 generates video data by recording the image and audio of the distributor LV1, and transmits it to the LC server 10 via the network NW. Distributor LV2 performs LC live distribution, in which he introduces the same sales targets as those introduced by broadcaster LV1. The user terminal 20b of the distributor LV2 generates video data by recording the image and audio of the distributor LV2, and transmits it to the LC server 10 via the network NW.

User terminals 30a and 30b of viewers AU1 and AU2 of either the LC live distribution of the distributor LV1 or the LC live distribution of the distributor LV2 respectively receive video data and video data related to the LC live distribution of the distributor LV1 via the network NW. The video data related to the LC live distribution of the distributor LV2 is received, and the received video data is reproduced to display the video images VD1 and VD2 on the display and output audio from the speaker. The video images VD1 and VD2 displayed on the respective user terminals 30a and 30b are substantially the same, and the area where the video image VDA captured by the user terminal 20a of the distributor LV1 is displayed and the area where the user terminal 20b of the distributor LV2 is displayed are substantially the same. and an area for displaying the captured moving image VDB. The moving image VDA and the moving image VDB are simultaneously played back on the viewer's user terminal 30 and displayed on the same screen on the display. The voices output by each user terminal 30a, 30b are substantially the same, and include the voice acquired by the user terminal 20a of the distributor LV1 and the voice acquired by the user terminal 20b of the distributor LV2. The user terminal 20a of the distributor LV1 receives the video image VDB of the distributor LV2 via the network NW, and displays it on the display together with the video image VDA of the distributor LV1. The user terminal 20b of the distributor LV2 receives the video VDA of the distributor LV1 via the network NW, and displays it on the display together with the video VDB of the distributor LV2.

A cart icon 616 for the viewers AU1 and AU2 to order items for sale is superimposed on the video images VD1 and VD2 displayed on the user terminals 30a and 30b of each viewer. Viewers AU1 and AU2 can order and/or purchase items for sale by tapping the cart icon 616 during the VSLC distribution.

Audio recording on the user terminal 20 of the distributor LV and reproduction of video data on the user terminal 30 of the viewer AU are performed substantially simultaneously. When one viewer AU1 inputs a comment into the user terminal 30a in response to the introduction of a sales target by the distributor LV1, the LC server 10 displays the comment in real time on the user terminal 20a of the distributor LV1, and also displays the comment on the user terminal 20a of the distributor LV1. It is also displayed on the user terminal 20b of the distributor LV2 and the user terminals 30a and 30b of each viewer AU1 and AU2. When the broadcaster LV1 reads the comment and develops an introduction over the content, the video and audio of the introduction are output on the user terminal 20b of the broadcaster LV2 and the user terminals 30a and 30b of each viewer AU1 and AU2. , This recognizes that a conversation between the broadcaster LV1 and the viewer AU1 has been established. In this way, the live commerce system 1 realizes simultaneous LC distribution that enables two-way communication instead of one-way communication.

In the live commerce system 1 according to the present embodiment, simultaneous LC distribution is realized in which multiple distributors introduce and sell the same or corresponding sales items on the same screen at the same time. As a result, the viewer can obtain a lot of information about the sales item from multiple viewpoints from the discussions and interactions between the broadcasters, thereby improving the satisfaction level of the shopping experience. If simultaneous LC distribution is competitive, having competitors on the same screen will increase the sense of tension and motivation of the broadcasters, which will further improve the quality of LC live distribution and increase sales. In addition, it is possible to provide not only the experience of simply selling things through live streaming, but also a new form of entertainment in which success or loss is determined by the level of sales. If the simultaneous LC distribution is cooperative, the host will receive comments and questions about the sales items from the guests in real time, and respond in real time, thereby increasing the viewer's sense of understanding about the sales items. It can increase the satisfaction level of the shopping experience. In addition, by inviting loyal users who love the products being sold as guests, it is possible to directly deliver the voices of favorable users to the viewers.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the functions and configuration of the user terminal 20 in FIG. 1. User terminal 30 has the same functions and configuration as user terminal 20. Each block shown in FIG. 2 and the subsequent block diagrams can be realized in terms of hardware by elements and mechanical devices such as a CPU of a computer, and in terms of software by a computer program, etc., but here, It depicts the functional blocks realized by their cooperation. Therefore, those skilled in the art who have been exposed to this specification will understand that these functional blocks can be realized in various ways by combining hardware and software.

The distributor LV and the viewer AU download and install the LC live distribution application program (hereinafter referred to as LC application) according to the present embodiment onto the user terminals 20 and 30 from the download site via the network NW. Alternatively, the LC application may be preinstalled on the user terminals 20, 30. By executing the LC application by the user terminals 20 and 30, the user terminals 20 and 30 communicate with the LC server 10 via the network NW and realize various functions. Hereinafter, functions realized by the user terminals 20, 30 (processors such as CPUs thereof) executing the LC application will be described as functions of the user terminals 20, 30. These functions are actually functions that the LC application causes the user terminals 20 and 30 to realize. Note that in other embodiments, these functions are implemented using HTML (HyperText Markup Language), etc., which is transmitted from the LC server 10 to the web browsers of the user terminals 20 and 30 via the network NW and executed by the web browsers. It may be realized by a computer program written in a programming language.

The user terminal 20 is connected to a distribution unit 100 that generates video data in which images and voices of users are recorded and provides it to the LC server 10, and also enables management of items for sale during LC live distribution, and receives video data from the LC server 10. and a viewing section 200 that acquires and reproduces the information and receives an action for ordering an object for sale during LC live distribution. The user activates the distribution unit 100 when performing distribution, and the viewing unit 200 when viewing. The user terminal on which the distribution unit 100 is active is the user terminal on the distributor side, that is, the video data generation side or the sales side of the target for sale, and the user terminal on which the viewing unit 200 is active is the user terminal on the viewer side. In other words, it is a user terminal on the video data playback side or on the purchase side for sale.

The distribution unit 100 includes an imaging control unit 102, an audio control unit 104, a video transmission unit 106, a distribution side UI control unit 108, a distribution side communication unit 110, and a sales object control unit 112. The imaging control unit 102 is connected to a camera (not shown in FIG. 2), and controls imaging by the camera. The imaging control unit 102 acquires image data from a camera. The audio control unit 104 is connected to a microphone (not shown in FIG. 2), and controls audio input by the microphone. The audio control unit 104 acquires audio data from the microphone. The video transmission unit 106 transmits video data including the image data acquired by the imaging control unit 102 and the audio data acquired by the audio control unit 104 to the LC server 10 via the network NW. Transmission of video data by the video transmitter 106 is performed in real time. That is, the generation of video data by the imaging control unit 102 and the audio control unit 104 and the transmission of the generated video data by the video transmission unit 106 are performed substantially simultaneously.

The distribution side UI control unit 108 controls the UI for the distributor. The distribution side UI control unit 108 is connected to a display not shown in FIG. The distribution side UI control unit 108 plays back the video data to be transmitted by the video transmission unit 106 and the video data received via the LC server 10 from user terminals of other distributors participating in simultaneous LC distribution. By doing so, a simultaneous LC distribution screen including moving images of each distributor participating in the simultaneous LC distribution is displayed on the display. The distribution side UI control unit 108 is connected to input means such as a touch panel, keyboard, and display (not shown in FIG. 2), and obtains input from the distributor via these input means. The distribution side UI control unit 108 includes a predetermined frame image in the simultaneous LC distribution screen. The frame image includes various user interface objects (hereinafter simply referred to as objects) for receiving input from broadcasters, comments input by viewers and other broadcasters, and information obtained from the LC server 10. may be included. The distribution side UI control unit 108 accepts input of comments by the distributor.

The distribution side communication unit 110 controls communication with the LC server 10 during simultaneous LC distribution. The distribution side communication unit 110 transmits the content of the input by the distributor (for example, a comment, etc.) acquired by the distribution side UI control unit 108 to the LC server 10 via the network NW. The distribution side communication unit 110 receives various information associated with simultaneous LC distribution from the LC server 10 via the network NW.

The sales object control unit 112 cooperates with the LC server 10 via the network NW to provide an e-commerce function for simultaneous LC distribution. The sales object control unit 112 controls the sales objects introduced in simultaneous LC distribution.

The viewing section 200 includes a viewing side UI control section 202, a viewing side communication section 204, and a purchase reception section 206. The viewing side communication unit 204 controls communication with the LC server 10 during simultaneous LC distribution. The viewing side communication unit 204 receives video data generated at the user terminal of each distributor participating in the simultaneous LC distribution from the LC server 10 via the network NW.

A viewer-side UI control unit 202 controls a UI for viewers. The viewer-side UI control unit 202 is connected to a display and a speaker (not shown in FIG. 2), and displays a moving image on the display by reproducing the received moving image data, and outputs audio from the speaker. The output of an image to the display and the output of audio from the speaker can be collectively referred to as "video data being played back." The viewing side UI control unit 202 participates in simultaneous LC distribution by receiving from the LC server 10 and playing video data generated on the user terminal of each distributor participating in the simultaneous LC distribution. A simultaneous LC distribution screen including moving images of each distributor is displayed on a display.

The viewer-side UI control unit 202 is connected to input means such as a touch panel, keyboard, and display (not shown in FIG. 2), and obtains input from the viewer via these input means. The viewing side UI control unit 202 includes a predetermined frame image in the simultaneous LC distribution screen. The frame image includes various objects such as the cart icon 616 for receiving input from viewers, comments input by viewers and distributors, and information acquired from the LC server 10. The viewing side communication unit 204 transmits the contents of the input by the viewer, which the viewing side UI control unit 202 has acquired, to the LC server 10 via the network NW.

The purchase reception unit 206 receives an operation for ordering a sales object associated with the LC live distribution of a distributor participating in the simultaneous LC distribution. A viewer viewing the simultaneous LC distribution performs a predetermined operation in order to order a desired sales item. The purchase reception unit 206 receives this predetermined operation as a purchase instruction. The predetermined operation may be, for example, tapping a thumbnail of a sale item displayed on the simultaneous LC distribution screen. Alternatively, the predetermined operation may be to select a desired sales object from a list of sales objects. Alternatively, the predetermined action may be a series of inputs to add a desired sale item to a cart. Alternatively, the predetermined action may be tapping the cart icon 616 to proceed with the order for the sale item, ordering the sale item, or completing payment for the purchase of the sale item. When the purchase reception unit 206 receives a predetermined action, the purchase reception unit 206 stores the viewer ID of the viewer who performed the predetermined action and the distributor ID of the LC live broadcast that the viewer is viewing (in the case of VSLC distribution). A purchase request signal is generated that includes the distributor ID of one of the distributors (or the distributor ID of the host in the case of group call LC distribution) and the sales target ID of the sales target related to the predetermined operation, and the purchase request signal is sent via the network NW. and transmits it to the LC server 10.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing the functions and configuration of the LC server 10 of FIG. 1. The LC server 10 provides LC live distribution. The LC server 10 includes a distribution information providing section 302, a relay section 304, an EC processing section 306, a VS control section 308, a group call control section 310, a ranking generation section 312, a distribution information holding section 314, and a user It includes an information holding section 318, a VS information holding section 320, an event information holding section 322, a sales history holding section 324, and a ranking information holding section 326.

FIG. 4 is a data structure diagram showing an example of the distribution information holding unit 314 of FIG. 3. As shown in FIG. The distribution information holding unit 314 holds information on LC live distribution currently being performed on the LC platform provided by the live commerce system 1. The distribution information holding unit 314 stores a stream ID that specifies an LC live distribution on the LC platform, a distributor ID that is a user ID that specifies the distributor of the LC live distribution, and sales objects that can be purchased through the LC live distribution. A sales target ID to be specified, a viewer ID that is a user ID that identifies the viewer of the LC live distribution, a flag indicating whether the LC live distribution is a group call LC distribution, and a group call LC distribution. In this case, the guest ID that identifies the guest and, if the distributor of the LC live distribution participates in the VSLC distribution, the VSID that specifies the VSLC distribution are stored in association with each other. In the case of group call LC distribution, the distributor specified by the distributor ID is the host.

The distributor ID may specify the distributor or a group of distributors (for example, a company). When handling multiple sales targets in LC live distribution, multiple sales target IDs are registered in association with stream IDs.

In the LC platform provided by the live commerce system 1 according to the present embodiment, when a user performs LC live distribution, the user becomes a distributor, and when the same user views LC live distribution distributed by another user, Become a viewer. Therefore, the distinction between a distributor and a viewer is not fixed, and a user ID that is registered as a distributor ID at one time may be registered as a viewer ID at another time.

In VSLC distribution, viewers are recognized by the LC server 10 as viewers of one of the distributors. In the example of FIG. 1, viewer AU1 is viewing both the LC live broadcast of broadcaster LV1 and the LC live broadcast of broadcaster LV2 in VSLC distribution, but is recognized as a viewer of broadcaster LV1, and is viewed as a viewer of broadcaster LV2. It is not recognized as a viewer. Recognition in the LC server 10 is realized by the distribution information holding unit 314 holding the distributor ID, viewer ID, and VSID in association with each other for each LC live distribution. That is, in the distribution information holding unit 314, two distributor IDs (=two stream IDs) are associated with the same VSID, which means that these two distributors compete in a VSLC distribution. Further, in the distribution information holding unit 314, at least one viewer ID is associated with each of the two distributor IDs. A plurality of viewers associated with the same VSID in the distribution information holding unit 314 can each view the VSLC distribution through a simultaneous LC distribution screen 620 described later as a viewer of the VSLC distribution specified by the VSID. On the other hand, in the distribution information holding unit 314, the viewer is associated with one of the broadcasters competing in the VSLC distribution, and this means that the viewer is associated with one of the broadcasters competing in the VSLC distribution. This means being recognized as a viewer of the broadcast. In the example of FIG. 4, the VSLC distribution "VV1" is currently in progress, and in the VSLC distribution, the distributor "LV1" and the distributor "LV3" are competing against each other. The viewers of VSLC distribution “VV1” are “ABC”, “XXY”, “CCC”, “KLM”, and “MPQ”, among which viewers “ABC”, “XXY”, and “CCC” are LC live distribution “ ST01" (distributor "LV1"), and viewers "KLM" and "MPQ" are recognized as viewers of LC live distribution "ST03" (distributor "LV3").

FIG. 5 is a data structure diagram showing an example of the user information holding unit 318 in FIG. 3. As shown in FIG. The user information holding unit 318 holds information regarding users. The user information holding unit 318 stores the user ID that identifies the user, the total amount of orders received for all LC live broadcasts that the user has performed as a distributor or within a certain period, and the user's past participation as a viewer. The total amount of orders placed in all LC live distributions performed or within a certain period of time and the number of wins in all VSLC distributions in which the user has participated as a distributor or within a certain period are held in association with each other.

FIG. 6 is a data structure diagram showing an example of the VS information holding unit 320 of FIG. 3. As shown in FIG. The VS information holding unit 320 stores a VSID that specifies VSLC distribution on the LC platform, a competition period in which the VSLC distribution is performed, a target sales target ID that specifies the sales target set in the VSLC distribution, and a record of wins and losses in the VSLC distribution. the first distributor ID that identifies one of the distributors participating in the VSLC distribution, the metric value of the one distributor, and the other distributor participating in the VSLC distribution. The identified second distributor ID and the metric value of the other distributor are held in association with each other.

The information recorded during the competition period in which VSLC distribution is performed is a set of the start time and end time of VSLC distribution for past VSLC distribution, and is the start time of VSLC distribution for currently ongoing VSLC distribution.

The index that determines victory or defeat in VSLC distribution is an index that represents the amount of orders for target sales through the corresponding distributor's LC live distribution. In the e-commerce function of the LC platform, the flow of sales for sales objects is as follows.
(1) Cart-in the sales target, (2) Confirm the order for the sales target in the cart, (3) Payment, (4) Shipping In this embodiment, the purchase is completed when the order confirmation process in (2) is completed. regarded as. Then, the index is an index representing the amount of the target sales object for which purchase has been completed. For example, the index may be the number of items for which purchase has been completed (hereinafter referred to as the number of sold items) among target sales items carted in through the broadcaster's LC live broadcast in VSLC distribution, or It may be the total amount of completed purchases (hereinafter referred to as the total sales amount) of the target sales items carted in through the distributor's LC live distribution. Alternatively, the indicator may be the number of viewers who carted in and completed the purchase of the target sales item through the broadcaster's LC live broadcast in the VSLC broadcast.
In another embodiment, the indicator may be the number of viewers who carted in the target sale item through the broadcaster's LC live broadcast in the VSLC broadcast. Alternatively, the indicator may be the number of viewers who commented on the target sales object through the broadcaster's LC live broadcast in the VSLC broadcast. These indicators also represent the amount of orders for the target sale through the broadcaster's LC live broadcast.

In the example of FIG. 6, the entry on the second line indicates that the VSLC distribution identified by the VSID "VV2" started at 21:05 on May 30, 2023 and is currently in progress, and the sales target "PD020", Distributor "LV5" and distributor "LV10" are competing for the total sales of "PD021" and "PD022" (group of products belonging to the same vendor), and currently the total sales of distributor "LV5" is "2584. ”, the total sales amount of the distributor “LV10” is “2397”.

FIG. 7 is a data structure diagram showing an example of the event information holding unit 322 in FIG. 3. As shown in FIG. The event information holding unit 322 holds information on LC events held on the LC platform. The event information holding unit 322 indicates an event ID that specifies the event, a holding period of the event, a target sales target ID that specifies the sales target set for the event, and an index that determines the ranking of the event. Store metrics in association with each other.

The index for determining the ranking of events can be set in various ways depending on the design of the event. For example, the index may be the number of sold items or the total sales amount of the target sales object within the event period. Alternatively, the index may be the number of viewers who carted in the target sales item during the LC live broadcast performed during the event period. Alternatively, the index may be the number of units sold or the total amount of sales in simultaneous LC distribution (VSLC distribution or group call LC distribution) performed within the event period. Alternatively, the index may be the number of wins in VSLC distribution performed within the event period. Prizes may be awarded to broadcasters who achieve good results, such as high rankings, in the event.

In the example in Figure 7, the entry on the first line indicates that the event "EV1" will be held from 0:00 on May 1, 2023 to 23:59 on May 31, 2023, and the event will be held within the event period. This shows that the ranking is generated based on the number of sales of "PD015" to be sold through LC live distribution.

FIG. 8 is a data structure diagram showing an example of the sales history holding unit 324 in FIG. 3. As shown in FIG. The sales history holding unit 324 stores the stream ID, the distributor ID of the distributor who performs the LC live distribution specified by the stream ID, and the time when a cart-in occurred in the LC live distribution specified by the stream ID. The cart-in time, the viewer ID that identifies the viewer who performed the cart-in, the sales object ID that identifies the sales object that was the target of the cart-in, the amount of the sales object, and the sales object's price. A flag indicating whether the purchase is completed or not is stored in association with the flag.

In the example of FIG. 8, the entry on the first line indicates that in the LC live broadcast "ST01" performed by the distributor "LV1", the viewer "ABC" will receive the sale item " "PD001" is placed in the cart, and the amount is "3000", indicating that the viewer "ABC" has completed the purchase of the sales target "PD001".

FIG. 9 is a data structure diagram showing an example of the ranking information holding unit 326 of FIG. 3. The ranking information holding unit 326 holds information on rankings among distributors generated by the LC platform. The ranking information holding unit 326 contains a ranking ID that specifies the ranking, an event ID of the event if the ranking is generated within an event, and a target sales ID that specifies the sales target set in the ranking. The target ID, the metric indicating the index that determines the ranking in the ranking, the period covered by the ranking, the distributor ID and metric value of the distributor ranked first in the ranking, and the second in the ranking. The distributor ID and metric values of the distributor in the highest ranking are associated with the distributor IDs and metric values of the remaining distributors in the ranking and held.

The information recorded in the period targeted for ranking is a set of count start time and count end time for past rankings, and is a count start time for currently ongoing rankings. In the case of a ranking that does not depend on a period, NA (none) is recorded.

If the ranking is generated within an event, the target sales target ID, metric, and target period in the ranking information holding unit 326 are the target sales target ID, metric, and metric associated with the corresponding event ID in the event information holding unit 322, respectively. , is the same as the period. This relationship is shown in the entry on the second line of FIG. 9 (event ID "EV1") and the entry on the first line of FIG. 7 (event ID "EV1").

The indicators used to determine the rankings are based on those of the event.

In the example in Figure 9, the entry in the first row is the ranking "RK1" generated based on the total sales amount of "PD033" to be sold through LC live distribution, regardless of the event, and there is no target period, and there is currently only one entry. The first place is distributed by ``LV39'' and the total sales amount is ``56247,'' and the second place is the distributor ``LV21'' with the total sales amount ``25870.''

Returning to FIG. 3, when the distribution information providing unit 302 receives a notification from the distributor's user terminal 20 via the network NW to start LC live distribution, the distribution information providing unit 302 sends the stream ID that specifies the LC live distribution and the corresponding The distributor ID of the distributor of LC live distribution is registered in the distribution information holding unit 314. When the distribution information providing unit 302 receives a request for providing information regarding LC live distribution from the viewer's user terminal 30 via the network NW, the distribution information providing unit 302 refers to the distribution information holding unit 314 and stores a list of currently viewable LC live distributions. generate. The distribution information providing unit 302 transmits the generated list to the user terminal 30 of the requesting viewer via the network NW. The user terminal 30 of the requesting viewer generates an LC live distribution selection screen based on the received list and displays it on the display.

When the viewer's user terminal 30 receives the selection of LC live distribution on the LC live distribution selection screen, it generates a distribution request including the stream ID of the selected LC live distribution and sends it to the LC server 10 via the network NW. do. The distribution information providing unit 302 starts providing the LC live distribution specified by the stream ID included in the received distribution request to the user terminal 30 of the requesting viewer. The distribution information providing unit 302 updates the distribution information holding unit 314 so that the user ID of the requesting viewer is included in the viewer ID of the stream ID.

The relay unit 304 relays the transmission of video data from the distributor's user terminal 20 to the viewer's user terminal 30 in the LC live distribution started by the distribution information providing unit 302. The relay unit 304 receives from the viewing side communication unit 204 a signal indicating a user input by a viewer during LC live distribution, that is, during playback of video data. The signal indicating the user input may be an object specification signal indicating the specification of the object displayed on the display of the viewer's user terminal 30, and the object specification signal includes the viewer ID of the viewer and the It includes a stream ID that specifies the LC live distribution being viewed, a distributor ID of the distributor who is performing the LC live distribution, and an object ID that specifies the object. Similarly, the relay unit 304 receives a signal indicating a user input by the distributor during playback of video data, such as an object designation signal, from the distribution side communication unit 110 of the distributor's user terminal 20.

Regarding simultaneous LC distribution, the relay unit 304 relays the transmission of video data related to LC live distribution of each distributor participating in the simultaneous LC distribution from the user terminal of each distributor to the user terminal of the viewer. In the case of VSLC distribution, the relay unit 304 transmits video data related to the LC live distribution of one of the distributors participating in the VSLC distribution from the user terminal of the one distributor to the user terminal of the viewer of the VSLC distribution. Relay. At the same time, the relay unit 304 relays the transmission of video data related to the LC live distribution of the other distributor participating in the VSLC distribution from the user terminal of the other distributor to the user terminal of the viewer of the VSLC distribution. In the case of group call LC distribution, the relay unit 304 relays the transmission of video data related to the LC live distribution of the host of the group call LC distribution from the user terminal of the host to the user terminal of the viewer of the group call LC distribution. . At the same time, the relay unit 304 relays the transmission of video data related to the guest's LC live distribution of the group call LC distribution from the user terminal of the guest to the user terminal of the viewer of the group call LC distribution.

The EC processing unit 306 performs processing related to electronic commerce (E-commerce) in LC live distribution. The EC processing unit 306 allows viewers to purchase items for sale during LC live distribution. The EC processing unit 306 performs processing related to carts in LC live distribution. The EC processing unit 306 may be realized using known techniques described in, for example, Patent Document 1, Patent Document 2, and Non-Patent Document 1.

When the EC processing unit 306 receives a purchase request signal from the user terminal 30 of the viewer of the LC live distribution via the network NW, the EC processing unit 306 performs cart-in processing for the sales object specified by the sales object ID included in the purchase request signal. conduct. The EC processing unit 306 registers in the sales history holding unit 324 the cart-in of the sales object specified by the sales object ID included in the received purchase request signal.

The EC processing unit 306 cooperates with the user terminal 30 of the viewer of the LC live distribution to confirm the order for sale items in the cart and perform electronic payment. When the purchase of the sales object is completed, the EC processing unit 306 sets the corresponding flag in the sales history holding unit 324 to a state indicating purchase completion.

When the VS control unit 308 receives a VS setting request for requesting VSLC distribution settings from the distributor's user terminal 20 via the network NW, it issues a new VSID. The VS setting request is a request to send an invitation to a specified opponent to perform live distribution together with the requesting distributor on the same screen. The VS control unit 308 newly registers the target sales object ID included in the VS setting request in the VS information holding unit 320 in association with the issued VSID. The VS control unit 308 selects the number of units sold as a metric when the VS setting request includes one target sales target ID, and selects the total sales amount as a metric when multiple target sales target IDs or company IDs are included. and registers it in the corresponding entry of the VS information holding unit 320. In other embodiments, for example, the requesting broadcaster may be configured to specify metrics, or the target sales targets and metrics of the event being held or the event in which the requesting broadcaster is participating may be configured. may be employed or the metric may be specified by an administrator.

The VS control unit 308 transmits an invitation to perform VSLC distribution to the user terminal 20 of the distributor specified by the distributor ID of the opponent selected by the requesting distributor, which is included in the VS setting request. . The invitation to VSLC distribution, the start, maintenance, and control of VSLC distribution by the VS control unit 308 may be realized using the VS function technology described in Non-Patent Document 2, for example. When the invitation is accepted, the VS control unit 308 registers the distributor ID of the requesting distributor and the distributor ID of the opponent who accepted the invitation in the VS information holding unit 320 in association with the VSID. When VSLC distribution is started, the VS control unit 308 registers the start time in the period of the VS information holding unit 320.

When the VS control unit 308 detects an operation for ordering the target sales object through the LC live distribution of one of the distributors participating in the VSLC distribution, the VS control unit 308 updates the metrics of the one distributor. When the metric is the number of units sold, when the purchase of the target sales object carted in through the LC live broadcast of one of the distributors participating in the VSLC distribution is completed, the VS control unit 308 calculates the metric of the one distributor participating in the VSLC distribution. The VS information holding unit 320 is updated so that the value increases by the number of purchased items of the target sales object. If the metric is the total sales amount, the VS control unit 308 updates the VS information holding unit 320 so that the value of the metric for one distributor increases by the purchase amount of the target sales object. A similar update is also performed when an operation for ordering the target sales object is detected through the LC live distribution of the other distributor participating in the VSLC distribution.

The VS control unit 308 determines the outcome of the match based on the metric value of one distributor and the metric value of the other distributor when a predetermined VS end condition is met. The VS control unit 308 ends the VSLC distribution when a predetermined competition period (for example, 5 minutes) has elapsed since the start of the VSLC distribution. The VS control unit 308 refers to the VS information holding unit 320, identifies and compares the metric values of each distributor at the time of termination. The VS control unit 308 determines the distributor with the greater number of specified values as the winner in the VSLC distribution. The VS control unit 308 updates the user information holding unit 318 so that the number of VS wins of the winning distributor is incremented.

In this embodiment, the elapse of the competition period is adopted as the VS termination condition, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, if the metric value of one of the broadcasters participating in the VSLC distribution reaches a threshold value, the VSLC distribution is started. may be terminated. Alternatively, the VSLC distribution may be terminated at a timing agreed upon by one or both distributors participating in the VSLC distribution.

When the group call control unit 310 receives a group call setting request for requesting the setting of group call LC distribution from the user terminal 20 of the distributor via the network NW, the group call control unit 310 inputs the target sales target ID included in the group call setting request. It is registered in the distribution information holding unit 314 in association with the distributor ID of the distributor who made the request. As a result, the target sales object associated with the group call LC distribution screen is set. In addition, the group call control unit 310 sets a flag indicating whether or not the call is a group call corresponding to the distributor ID of the requesting distributor to Y (group call).

A group call setting request is a request to send an invitation to a specified guest to perform live distribution together with the requesting broadcaster on the same screen. The group call control unit 310 sends an invitation to perform group call LC distribution to the user terminal 20 of the distributor specified by the distributor ID of the guest selected by the requesting distributor, which is included in the group call setting request. Send. The invitation to group call LC distribution in the group call control unit 310 and the start, maintenance, and control of group call LC distribution may be realized using, for example, the free group call function technology described in Non-Patent Document 3. good. When the invitation is accepted, the group call control unit 310 controls the distribution information holding unit 314 so that the distributor ID of the guest who accepted the invitation is registered in the guest ID corresponding to the distributor ID of the requesting distributor. Update.

The ranking generation unit 312 generates rankings by determining the ranking of distributors for each sales target or for each sales source of the sales target, according to an index representing the amount of orders for the sales target through LC live distribution. The ranking generation unit 312 generates rankings by referring to the user information holding unit 318 and the sales history holding unit 324, and registers the generated rankings in the ranking information holding unit 326. The ranking generation unit 312 periodically updates the ranking registered in the ranking information holding unit 326. When the ranking generation unit 312 receives a ranking request from the user terminal 20 or 30, the ranking generation unit 312 acquires the requested ranking information from the ranking information holding unit 326 and transmits it to the requesting user terminal 20 or 30. The requesting user terminals 20 and 30 display on their displays a screen that displays rankings based on the received ranking information.

In addition to the above-mentioned examples, the index used in the ranking may be the total amount of orders received, the total amount of orders placed, the number of VS wins, etc. The ranking generation unit 312 calculates index values for each distributor by performing predetermined statistical processing on the data held in the user information holding unit 318 and the sales history holding unit 324. Statistical processing for generating rankings is well known and will not be described in detail herein. The ranking generation unit 312 determines the ranking of distributors according to the index values. The ranking generation unit 312 associates the distributor ID of the distributor with the rank of the distributor and registers the same in the ranking information holding unit 326.

The operation of the live commerce system 1 with the above configuration will be explained.
FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the flow of a series of processes in VSLC distribution. A distributor inputs a setting instruction for VSLC distribution into a user terminal when performing LC live distribution or when starting LC live distribution. The user terminal generates a VS setting request and transmits it to the LC server 10 via the network NW. The LC server 10 receives a VS setting request including the specification of the target sales target and the specification of the opponent from the distributor's user terminal 20 via the network NW (S202). The LC server 10 identifies the opponent specified in the received VS setting request as the opponent of the requesting distributor in VSLC distribution (S204). The LC server 10 sends an invitation to the specified opponent (S206).

The LC server 10 determines whether the invitation sent in step S206 has been accepted (S208). If the invitation is not accepted, for example, rejected or timed out (N in S208), the LC server 10 notifies the requesting distributor's user terminal 20 of the failure of the VSLC distribution settings (S224). ). After that, the process proceeds to step S226, which will be described later. In this embodiment, a case will be explained in which the broadcaster specifies an opponent when requesting settings for VSLC distribution, but the present invention is not limited to this. An invitation may be sent to the candidate at any time, or the LC server 10 may decide the opponent at random or according to a predetermined algorithm without the broadcaster specifying the opponent.

If the invitation is accepted in step S208 (Y in S208), the LC server 10 stores VSLC distribution setting information, that is, VSID, start time, target sales target ID, metric, distributor IDs of the two competing distributors, is registered in the VS information holding unit 320 (S210). The LC server 10 transmits a VS start notification via the network NW to the user terminal 20 of the requesting distributor, the user terminal of the opponent who has accepted the invitation, and the user terminal of the viewer of the VSLC distribution (S212). The VS start notification includes the start time of VSLC distribution specified by the LC server 10. The user terminal that has received the VS start notification starts displaying a simultaneous LC distribution screen related to VSLC distribution at the timing when the specified start time arrives.

After the above-mentioned timing, the LC server 10 updates the value of the corresponding metric held in the VS information holding unit 320 every time there is an operation for ordering the target sales object through the LC live distribution of each distributor. do. While the VSLC distribution is being performed, the LC server 10 determines whether the purchase process for the target sales object has been completed (S214). If the completion of the purchase process is not detected (N in S214), the LC server 10 determines whether the competition period for VSLC distribution has elapsed (S218). If the length of the competition period is set to 5 minutes, the LC server 10 sets a timer to count 5 minutes. The LC server 10 starts a timer countdown when VSLC distribution is started in step S212. The LC server 10 determines whether the remaining time indicated by the timer has reached 0 in step S218. If the competition period has not elapsed (N at S218), the process returns to step S214. If the competition period has elapsed (Y in S218), the process advances to step S220.

If the completion of the purchase process is detected in step S214 (Y in S214), the LC server 10 determines which distributor's LC live distribution cart-ined the target sales target for which the purchase was completed, and the target sales target. Purchase information indicating how many items were purchased and what the total cost was is registered in the sales history holding unit 324, and the value of the metric in the VS information holding unit 320 is updated based on the purchase information (S216). After that, the process advances to step S218.

When the remaining time reaches 0 in step S218 (Y in S218), the LC server 10 refers to the VS information holding unit 320 and determines the winner or loser in the VSLC distribution (S220). The LC server 10 transmits the result of the game determined in step S220 to the user terminals of each distributor participating in the VSLC distribution and the user terminals of each viewer of the VSLC distribution (S222). The LC server 10 stops providing VSLC distribution and registers the end time in the VS information holding unit 320. The LC server 10 provides normal LC live distribution to the viewers who were viewing the VSLC distribution (S226). That is, the LC server 10 refers to the distribution information holding unit 314 to identify the LC live distribution corresponding to each viewer, and selects the LC live distribution (normal LC live distribution that is not VSLC distribution) specified for the user terminal of that viewer. )I will provide a.

FIG. 11 is a representative screen diagram of a VSLC distribution setting screen 600 displayed on the display of the distributor's user terminal. The VSLC distribution setting screen 600 includes a target sales target selection area 602 that accepts the distributor's selection of target sales targets handled in VSLC distribution, an opponent selection area 604 that accepts the distributor's selection of an opponent, and a GO button 610. has. The target sales target selection area 602 includes thumbnails 606 of sales targets that can be selected as target sales targets, and objects 608 that represent selectable companies. In the target sales target selection area 602, one or more target sales targets can be selected. When an object 608 representing a company is selected, one or more sales objects handled by that company on the LC platform are set as target sales objects. The target sales target selection area 602 may be generated based on information obtained via the network NW from a holding unit (not shown) that holds information on sales targets handled by the LC platform provided in the LC server 10. good.

The opponent selection area 604 includes an icon 612 representing a distributor that can be selected as an opponent, a distributor name, and a random button 614. In the opponent selection area 604, a specific broadcaster can be selected as an opponent, or by tapping a random button 614, the LC server 10 can randomly select an opponent.

The distributor selects a desired sales target in the target sales target selection area 602, selects a desired opponent in the opponent selection area 604, and taps the GO button 610. When the distributor's user terminal detects a tap on the GO button 610, the distributor's user terminal selects the target sales target ID of the target sales target selected in the target sales target selection area 602 and the distributor of the opponent selected in the opponent selection area 604. A VS setting request including the ID is generated and sent to the LC server 10 via the network NW. Upon receiving the VS setting request, the LC server 10 sets up VSLC distribution by sending an invitation as described above, and sends a VS start notification. The requesting distributor's user terminal, the opponent's user terminal, and the viewer's user terminal each display a simultaneous LC distribution screen 620 related to VSLC distribution at a timing corresponding to the start time included in the VS start notification. to start.

FIG. 12 is a representative screen diagram of a simultaneous LC distribution screen 620 displayed on a display of a user terminal of a viewer of VSLC distribution. The simultaneous LC distribution screen 620 displays moving images generated by the user terminals of each distributor of VSLC distribution on the same screen in real time, accepts orders for target sales, and visually displays the superiority of the competition. The simultaneous LC distribution screen 620 includes a first video display area 622 that displays a video of the LC live distribution of one of the distributors participating in the VSLC distribution, and a video of the LC live distribution of the other distributor participating in the VSLC distribution. a second moving image display area 624 that displays an image, a remaining time display area 632 that indicates the remaining time of the competition period, and an index display that indicates the number of target sales through the LC live distribution of each distributor participating in the VSLC distribution. It has an area 626, a comment display area 628, a comment input area 630, and a cart icon 616. The simultaneous LC distribution screen 620 displays a first moving image display area 622 and a second moving image display area 624 side by side in a predetermined layout. The first moving image display area 622 displays a moving image obtained by reproducing the moving image data of one distributor's LC live distribution received from the LC server 10. The second moving image display area 624 displays a moving image obtained by reproducing the moving image data of the LC live distribution of the other distributor received from the LC server 10.

The LC live distribution of one distributor participating in the VSLC distribution and the LC live distribution of the other distributor participating in the VSLC distribution are associated with the same target sales object. In the example of FIG. 12, each distributor sells the same "hat", and icons 634 and 636 of the sales items are displayed on each video. If the viewer viewing the simultaneous LC distribution screen 620 in FIG. 12 is a viewer of one distributor's LC live distribution, the icon 634 displayed in association with the one distributor's LC live distribution can be tapped. The icon 636 displayed in association with the other broadcaster's LC live broadcast is configured so that it cannot be tapped. When the viewer's user terminal detects a tap on the icon 634, it generates a purchase request signal that includes the viewer ID of the tapped viewer, the distributor ID of one of the distributors, and the sales target ID of the target sales target. , is transmitted to the LC server 10 via the network NW. Upon receiving the purchase request signal, the LC server 10 performs the cart-in process as described above. Similarly, when the viewer viewing the simultaneous LC distribution screen 620 in FIG. 12 is a viewer of the other distributor's LC live distribution, cart-in processing is performed in response to a tap on the icon 636. In this way, the icons 634 and 636 can be said to be objects for ordering items for sale.

In this embodiment, a case will be described in which each distributor of VSLC distribution handles the same sales target, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the sales target handled by one distributor of VSLC distribution may correspond to but be different from the target sales target handled by the other distributor. In this case, the VSLC distribution settings may be configured such that the opponent can specify a desired sales target when accepting the invitation.

The index display area 626 displays the number of products sold by one distributor and the number of products sold by the other distributor in association with each other. In the example of FIG. 12, the index display area 626 includes text indicating the number of units sold by each distributor and an object that visually displays the difference in the number of units sold. The viewer's user terminal updates the display contents of the icons 634 and 636, the remaining time display area 632, and the index display area 626 by referring to the VS information holding unit 320 of the LC server 10 via the network NW.

Comment input area 630 accepts input of comments by viewers. The viewer enters a desired comment into the comment input area 630 and taps the send button. When the viewer's user terminal detects a tap on the send button, it generates a comment input signal including the comment input in the comment input area 630, and transmits it to the LC server 10 via the network NW.

The comment display area 628 can include comments input by viewers, comments input by broadcasters, and notifications from the system. The notification from the system includes a message indicating that the viewer has purchased the sale item. The viewer's user terminal generates a comment display area 628 containing the comment to be displayed received from the LC server 10.

The cart icon 616 is an icon for transitioning to a screen displaying target sales items added to the cart. Viewers can proceed with the purchase procedure from this screen. The functions related to the cart and purchase procedure may be realized using known electronic commerce technology. The cart icon 616 can be said to be an object for ordering the target sales object. If the viewer viewing the simultaneous LC distribution screen 620 in FIG. 12 is a viewer of one of the distributors' LC live distribution, the viewer's user terminal detects the viewer's tap on the cart icon 616. Then, processing is executed to confirm the order of the target sales object carted in through the LC live distribution of one of the distributors, or to complete the purchase.

When the VSLC-distributed match progresses and the remaining time reaches 0, the LC server 10 decides the winner or loser as described above, and notifies the user terminal of each participant (distributor, viewer) of the match result. do. When the participant's user terminal receives the result of the game, it generates an object 638 indicating the result and displays it in a superimposed manner on the simultaneous LC distribution screen 620.

FIG. 13 is a representative screen diagram of a simultaneous LC distribution screen 620 displayed on a display of a user terminal of a viewer of VSLC distribution, on which an object 638 indicating the result of a game is superimposed. FIG. 13 corresponds to the state in which the competition period of the VSLC distribution shown in FIG. 12 has ended.

FIG. 14 is a representative screen diagram of the LC distribution screen 700 displayed on the display of the viewer's user terminal. When the VSLC distribution match on the simultaneous LC distribution screen 620 in FIG. 13 ends, the display screen transitions from the simultaneous LC distribution screen 620 in FIG. 13 to the LC distribution screen 700 in FIG. 14. The LC distribution screen 700 is the distribution of the one corresponding to the viewer who was viewing the simultaneous LC distribution screen 620 in FIG. 13 among the two broadcasters who competed in the VSLC distribution related to the simultaneous LC distribution screen 620 in FIG. 13. This is a distribution screen of the person's LC live distribution. The LC distribution screen 700 displays a video 710 of the LC live distribution of the corresponding distributor, but no longer displays the video of the LC live distribution of the other distributor.

The LC distribution screen 700 includes a comment input area 702, a comment display area 704, a share button 706, a heart button 708, and a video image 710 of the distributor obtained by playing video data received from the LC server 10. , a sales target icon 634, a time display area 714 indicating the distribution time of LC live distribution, and a cart icon 616. The moving image 710 displayed on the LC distribution screen 700 is the distribution of the corresponding one of the first moving image display area 622 and the second moving image display area 624 that were displayed on the simultaneous LC distribution screen 620 of VSLC distribution. This corresponds to the moving image displayed in the moving image display area of the user.

FIG. 15 is a representative screen diagram of the ranking display screen 642 displayed on the display of the user's user terminal. The user specifies the desired ranking via the user terminal. The user terminal generates a ranking request including a ranking ID that specifies the specified ranking, and transmits it to the LC server 10 via the network NW. The LC server 10 acquires ranking information corresponding to the ranking ID included in the received ranking request from the ranking information holding unit 326. The LC server 10 generates a ranking response including the acquired ranking information and transmits it to the requesting user terminal via the network NW. The user terminal generates a ranking display screen 642 based on the received ranking response and displays it on the display. The example in FIG. 15 displays a ranking in which distributors are ranked based on the monthly sales amount for sales objects sold by a specific company. In Figure 15, for example, the distributor "AXBC" sells products sold by the company "AABB INC" on its own LC live broadcast, and has sold a total of 258,475 yen since the beginning of the month. It is shown that "AABB INC" ranks first in terms of sales of products sold.

FIG. 16 is a representative screen diagram of a group call LC distribution setting screen 650 displayed on the display of the distributor's user terminal. The group call LC distribution setting screen 650 includes a target sales target selection area 602 that accepts the host's selection of target sales targets handled in the group call LC distribution, a guest selection area 654 that accepts the host's selection of guests, and a GO button 660. has.

The guest selection area 654 includes an icon 662 representing a distributor that can be selected as a guest, a distributor name, and an invitation object 664. The host can select one or more broadcasters as guests by tapping an invite button 664 corresponding to a desired broadcaster in the guest selection area 654.

The host is a distributor on the order-receiving side of the target sales target. A guest may be a broadcaster who is invited to support a host's sale of a subject sale. The host selects a desired sales target in the target sales target selection area 602, selects a desired guest in the guest selection area 654, and taps the GO button 660. When the host's user terminal detects a tap on the GO button 660, the host's user terminal displays information including the target sales target ID of the target sales target selected in the target sales target selection area 602 and the distributor ID of the guest selected in the guest selection area 654. A group call setting request is generated and sent to the LC server 10 via the network NW. Upon receiving the group call setting request, the LC server 10 sets group call LC distribution by sending an invitation to the guest's user terminal as described above, and sends a group call start notification. When each of the requesting host user terminal, guest user terminal, and viewer user terminal receives the group call start notification, they start displaying a simultaneous LC distribution screen 670 related to group call LC distribution on their displays.

FIG. 17 is a representative screen diagram of a simultaneous LC distribution screen 670 displayed on the display of a user terminal of a viewer of group call LC distribution. The simultaneous LC distribution screen 670 displays moving images generated on the user terminals of each distributor of group call LC distribution on the same screen in real time, and also accepts orders for target sales. The simultaneous LC distribution screen 670 includes a third video display area 672 that displays a video of the host's LC live distribution of the group call LC distribution, and a fourth video display area 672 that displays the video of the guest's LC live distribution of the group call LC distribution. It has a moving image display area 676, a fifth moving image display area 678, a comment display area 628, a comment input area 630, and a cart icon 616. The simultaneous LC distribution screen 670 displays a third moving image display area 672, a fourth moving image display area 676, and a fifth moving image display area 678 side by side in a predetermined layout. The third moving image display area 672 displays a moving image obtained by reproducing moving image data received from the LC server 10 and generated by the user terminal of the host. The fourth moving image display area 676 and the fifth moving image display area 678 each display a moving image obtained by reproducing moving image data received from the LC server 10 and generated by the corresponding guest's user terminal.

The group call LC distribution is associated with the target sales object specified by the host on the group call LC distribution setting screen 650. In the example of FIG. 17, "hats" are targeted for sale, and an icon 674 for the targeted sale is displayed on the host's video. When the viewer's user terminal detects a tap on the icon 674, it generates a purchase request signal including the viewer ID of the tapped viewer, the host's distributor ID, and the sales object ID of the target sales object, and sends the purchase request signal to the network NW. The data is sent to the LC server 10 via the LC server 10. Upon receiving the purchase request signal, the LC server 10 performs the cart-in process as described above. In this way, the icon 674 can be said to be an object for ordering items for sale.

In the embodiments described above, examples of the holding unit are a hard disk or a semiconductor memory. Further, based on the description of this specification, each part may be implemented by a CPU (not shown), an installed application program module, a system program module, a semiconductor memory that temporarily stores the contents of data read from a hard disk, etc. Those skilled in the art will understand that this can be done.

According to the live commerce system 1 according to the present embodiment, it is possible to introduce sales items and take orders through simultaneous LC distribution in which a plurality of distributors participate. The sales of the sales items can be promoted through live commerce by having a conversation between multiple distributors about the sales items and competing for the amount of orders for the sales items. By collaborating with or competing with other distributors to sell their products, distributors can increase their motivation to sell their products. Viewers can have a more satisfying shopping experience by receiving introductions and explanations about sales items from multiple distributors in a single broadcast.

In addition, in the live commerce system 1 according to the present embodiment, influencers who have a large influence on sales of products and services compete for sales. When two influencers compete for the same sales target in VSLC distribution, sales increase due to the synergistic effect between the two. As an influencer, it is more effective to generate enthusiasm and increase sales by competing with other influencers than by selling through a single LC live broadcast.

Furthermore, in this embodiment, it is not only possible to directly specify a sales target handled by simultaneous LC distribution, but also a company or a brand. This makes it possible to realize a live commerce system 1 that is easier for companies to use. Administrators of the LC platform can plan measures and events focused on companies and brands. For example, an event can be planned in which a special product of ○○ is presented to the distributor who has the highest sales of ○○ (brand name) products this month.

In addition, in the live commerce system 1 according to the present embodiment, the host communicates with the guest about the sale item through group call LC distribution, so that the viewer can learn more about the sale item. By inviting broadcasters who like the sales target as guests, the host can more naturally appeal to the viewers the good points of the sales target. In addition, the host can convey an objective opinion about the sale item to the viewers by having the guest use the sale item on the spot and express their impressions.

Further, in a conversation between the host and the guest, the host can issue a coupon for the sale item to the viewer for the sale item that the guest said he or she likes during the broadcast. It is also possible for the guest to persuade the host to issue a coupon. In this way, it becomes possible to create adaptive responses that arise from real-time dialogue, which is unique to live streaming.

Referring to FIG. 18, the hardware configuration of the information processing apparatus according to this embodiment will be described. FIG. 18 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the information processing device according to this embodiment. The illustrated information processing apparatus 900 can implement, for example, each of the LC server 10 and user terminals 20 and 30 in this embodiment.

Information processing device 900 includes a CPU 901, ROM (Read Only Memory) 902, and RAM (Random Access Memory) 903. Further, the information processing device 900 may include a host bus 907, a bridge 909, an external bus 911, an interface 913, an input device 915, an output device 917, a storage device 919, a drive 921, a connection port 925, and a communication device 929. Furthermore, the information processing device 900 includes an imaging device (not shown) such as a camera. Further, the information processing device 900 may include a processing circuit called a DSP (Digital Signal Processor) or an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) instead of or in addition to the CPU 901.

The CPU 901 functions as an arithmetic processing device and a control device, and controls all or part of the operations within the information processing device 900 according to various programs recorded in the ROM 902, RAM 903, storage device 919, or removable recording medium 923. For example, the CPU 901 controls the overall operation of each functional unit included in the server 10 and the user terminals 20 and 30 in this embodiment. The ROM 902 stores programs used by the CPU 901, calculation parameters, and the like. The RAM 903 temporarily stores programs used in the execution of the CPU 901 and parameters that change as appropriate during the execution. The CPU 901, ROM 902, and RAM 903 are interconnected by a host bus 907, which is an internal bus such as a CPU bus. Further, the host bus 907 is connected via a bridge 909 to an external bus 911 such as a PCI (Peripheral Component Interconnect/Interface) bus.

The input device 915 may be a device operated by a user, such as a mouse, a keyboard, a touch panel, a button, a switch, a lever, or a sound sensor such as a microphone, an acceleration sensor, a tilt sensor, an infrared sensor, or a depth sensor. It may also be a device that converts a physical quantity into an electrical signal, such as a temperature sensor or a humidity sensor. The input device 915 may be, for example, a remote control device that uses infrared rays or other radio waves, or may be an external connection device 927 such as a mobile phone that is compatible with the operation of the information processing device 900. The input device 915 includes an input control circuit that generates an input signal based on information input by the user or a sensed physical quantity and outputs it to the CPU 901. By operating this input device 915, the user inputs various data to the information processing device 900 and instructs processing operations.

The output device 917 is configured of a device that can visually or audibly notify the user of the acquired information. The output device 917 can be, for example, a display such as an LCD, PDP, or OELD, an audio output device such as a speaker and headphones, a printer device, or the like. The output device 917 outputs the results obtained by the processing of the information processing device 900 as a video such as text or an image, or as a sound such as audio.

The storage device 919 is a data storage device configured as an example of a storage unit of the information processing device 900. The storage device 919 is configured of, for example, a magnetic storage device such as an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), a semiconductor storage device, an optical storage device, a magneto-optical storage device, or the like. This storage device 919 stores programs and various data executed by the CPU 901, various data acquired from the outside, and the like.

The drive 921 is a reader/writer for a removable recording medium 923 such as a magnetic disk, an optical disk, a magneto-optical disk, or a semiconductor memory, and is built into the information processing apparatus 900 or attached externally. The drive 921 reads information recorded on the attached removable recording medium 923 and outputs it to the RAM 903. Further, the drive 921 writes records to the attached removable recording medium 923.

The connection port 925 is a port for directly connecting a device to the information processing device 900. The connection port 925 may be, for example, a USB (Universal Serial Bus) port, an IEEE1394 port, a SCSI (Small Computer System Interface) port, or the like. Furthermore, the connection port 925 may be an RS-232C port, an optical audio terminal, an HDMI (registered trademark) (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) port, or the like. By connecting the external connection device 927 to the connection port 925, various data can be exchanged between the information processing device 900 and the external connection device 927.

The communication device 929 is, for example, a communication interface configured with a communication device for connecting to the network 60. The communication device 929 can be, for example, a wired or wireless LAN (Local Area Network), Bluetooth (registered trademark), or WUSB (Wireless USB) communication card. Further, the communication device 929 may be a router for optical communication, a router for ADSL (Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line), a modem for various communications, or the like. The communication device 929, for example, transmits and receives signals and the like to and from the Internet and other communication devices using a predetermined protocol such as TCP/IP. The communication network 60 connected to the communication device 929 is a wired or wireless network, such as the Internet, a home LAN, infrared communication, radio wave communication, or satellite communication. Note that the communication device 929 realizes a function as a communication unit.

An imaging device (not shown) such as a camera includes an imaging device such as a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) or a CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor), and various lenses such as a lens for controlling the formation of a subject image on the imaging device. This is a device that captures an image of real space and generates a captured image using the following members. The imaging device may be one that captures still images or may be one that captures moving images.

The configuration and operation of the live commerce system 1 according to the embodiment have been described above. This embodiment is an example, and those skilled in the art will understand that various modifications are possible to the combinations of each component and each process, and that such modifications are also within the scope of the present disclosure.

In an embodiment, a digital prize (comment frame, badge, etc.) may be given to a broadcaster whose metric value exceeds a predetermined standard (for example, ranks within the top 10) in an event or ranking. A digital prize may also be given to a distributor who wins in VSLC distribution.

In the embodiment, a case has been described in which rankings among distributors are generated, but the present invention is not limited to this, and for example, rankings among viewers may be generated regarding the amount of orders to be sold. The ranking index among viewers may be, for example, the total purchase amount or number of purchases for a specific sales target or company, or the total purchase amount or number of purchases.

In the processing procedures described in this specification, particularly those explained using flow diagrams and flowcharts, some of the processes (steps) constituting the processing procedures may be omitted; It is possible to add steps that are not specified as steps and/or change the order of the steps, and such omissions, additions, and changes in order do not depart from the spirit of the present disclosure. within the scope of this disclosure.

At least some of the functions realized by the server may be realized by a device other than the server, for example, a user terminal. At least some of the functions realized by the user terminal may be realized by other devices, such as a server. For example, a server having the LC function of the LC server and another server having the remaining functions of the LC server may be provided.

Claims (8)

a function of accepting a viewer's selection of a first live broadcast associated with a first sales target;
a first area that displays a moving image of the first live distribution;
a second area that displays a video image of a second live distribution associated with a second sales target that is the same as or corresponds to the first sales target;
A first index representing the amount of orders for the first sales object through the first live distribution and a second index representing the amount of orders for the second sales object through the second live distribution are displayed in association with each other. 3 areas and
A computer program for causing a terminal to realize a function of displaying on a display a distribution screen including an object set such that only the first sales target can be ordered . The computer program product according to claim 1, further causing the terminal to implement a function of executing a process for ordering the first sales object when the designation of the object by the viewer is detected. a function of causing the display to start displaying the distribution screen at a predetermined timing;
When the designation of the object by the viewer is detected, a signal including information identifying the first live broadcast that the viewer is viewing and information identifying the first sales target is generated, and the signal is transmitted to the network. with the ability to send to the server via
further causing the terminal to have a function of displaying on the display the result of the game determined by the server based on the first indicator and the second indicator when a predetermined end condition is met;
The computer program product of claim 1 , wherein the server updates the first indicator upon receiving the signal . When the game related to the distribution screen is over, the terminal further includes a function of displaying another distribution screen on the display that displays the video of the first live distribution but does not display the video of the second live distribution. 4. The computer program according to claim 3, which is implemented in the computer program. Relaying transmission of video data related to a first live distribution associated with a first sales object from a first distributor terminal to a first viewer terminal of a first viewer of the first live distribution , and Relays transmission of video data related to a second live distribution associated with a second sales object that is the same as or corresponds to the first sales object from a second distributor terminal to the first viewer terminal , and 1 relaying the transmission of video data related to live distribution from the first distributor terminal to a second viewer terminal of a second viewer of the second live distribution, and video data related to the second live distribution; means for relaying transmission from the second distributor terminal to the second viewer terminal ;
When a first signal generated by detecting an operation for ordering the first sales object on the first viewer terminal is received from the first viewer terminal, the first signal is transmitted through the first live distribution. A second signal generated by updating a first index representing the amount of orders for the second sales object and detecting an operation for ordering the second sales object at the second viewer terminal. means for updating , upon receipt from a second viewer terminal, a second indicator representing the amount of orders for the second sales object through the second live broadcast;
When a predetermined end condition for a competition between the first broadcaster of the first live broadcast and the second broadcaster of the second live broadcast is satisfied, the first indicator and the and means for determining a result of the game based on a second index. a first area that displays a plurality of video images from a plurality of distributors side by side in a predetermined layout;
A computer program for causing a terminal to realize a function of displaying on a display a distribution screen including an object for ordering a sales object sold by one of the plurality of distributors or as an intermediary for sales . 7. The computer program according to claim 6, wherein the one distributor among the plurality of distributors is a distributor on the order receiving side of the sales object. 2. The computer program product according to claim 1, wherein the distribution screen is configured such that the second sales object cannot be ordered.

Images