JP7502752B2 - Content distribution system and content distribution method - Google Patents

Description

An embodiment of the present invention relates to a content distribution technology in which a terminal is placed near a product displayed in a store and the terminal is used to distribute content used to promote the product.

Conventionally, monitors have been installed near the displayed products, and videos of product demonstrations filmed and edited for television shopping are displayed on the monitors to stimulate consumers' desire to purchase.

JP 2001-331137 A

The monitors displayed alongside the products only show videos of pre-determined demonstrations, so consumers may not be able to get the information they want. When consumers want to know more about a product, they need to ask a salesperson, but if a salesperson is not nearby or does not know about the product, they cannot respond immediately, which is an issue.

The embodiment of the present invention has been made in consideration of these circumstances, and aims to provide a content distribution technology that enables consumers to instantly obtain information that they are particularly interested in regarding products displayed in stores.

A content distribution system according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a content storage unit that stores a plurality of pieces of content corresponding to a plurality of types of information related to a single product that is the subject of sales promotion, an output unit that outputs one piece of content from the plurality of pieces of content, a touch panel that displays on a screen a selection input section corresponding to the plurality of pieces of content, an input receiving unit that receives an input operation by the selection input section, and a switching unit that switches the content corresponding to the selection input section to be output by the output unit when an input operation is performed by the selection input section.

A content distribution system according to an embodiment of the present invention includes an access unit that accesses a server at regular intervals, an identification information transmission unit that transmits to the server identification information that can individually identify a terminal that accesses the server, and a schedule setting unit that acquires from the server a schedule associated with the transmitted identification information and sets the schedule.

A content distribution system according to an embodiment of the present invention includes an access unit that accesses a server, an identification information transmission unit that transmits to the server identification information that can individually identify a terminal that accesses the server, and a download unit that downloads the content associated with the transmitted identification information from the server and stores it in the content storage unit.

A content distribution system according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a download period determination unit that determines whether the current time is included in a planned download period that precedes a planned output period during which the content is scheduled to be output, and a download unit that downloads the content from the server and stores it in the content storage unit when the current time is included in the planned download period.

A content distribution system according to an embodiment of the present invention includes an output end determination unit that determines whether the current time is after the planned output period during which the content is scheduled to be output has elapsed, and an erasure unit that, when the current time is after the planned output period has elapsed, erases the content corresponding to this planned output period from the content storage unit.

The content distribution system according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a counting unit that counts the number of times the content corresponding to the selection input unit is selected when an input operation is performed on the selection input unit, and a selection count transmission unit that transmits information that can identify the number of times each of the contents is selected to a server.

The content distribution system according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a selection time storage unit that stores the time when the content corresponding to the selection input unit was selected when an input operation is performed on the selection input unit, and a selection time transmission unit that transmits information that can identify the time when each of the contents was selected to a server.

The content distribution system according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a camera that captures an image of a person in front of the touch panel, a face recognition unit that can analyze the face of the person included in the image of the person based on a face recognition algorithm to identify the person individually, and a number transmission unit that transmits to a server information that can identify the number of people who have been in front of the touch panel for a certain period of time or more.

The content distribution system according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a display control unit that displays the multiple selection input units in a predetermined order on the screen of the touch panel, a count unit that counts the number of times the content corresponding to the selection input unit is selected when an input operation is performed on the selection input unit, and a change unit that changes the content corresponding to each of the selection input units based on the number of times the content is selected.

The content distribution system according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a display control unit that displays, on the screen of the touch panel, one main display unit on which an image of the content is displayed and a plurality of selection input units each having a smaller display area than the main display unit.

The content distribution system according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a download unit that downloads content related to a second product, which is different from the first product, from a server during a first output planned period during which output of the content related to the first product is planned, and stores the content in the content storage unit.

In a content distribution system according to an embodiment of the present invention, the plurality of contents are composed of one main content and a plurality of sub-contents each having a shorter playback time than the main content, and the switching unit outputs the sub-contents by the output unit, and then switches the main content to be output by the output unit.

A content delivery system according to an embodiment of the present invention is a content delivery system including a terminal that is installed near the product and outputs the content, and a server that is accessed by a plurality of the terminals via the Internet, and the server includes a schedule reception unit that receives input operations for setting a schedule corresponding to the terminal, a schedule storage unit that stores the set schedule in association with identification information that can individually identify the terminal, an identification information receiving unit that receives the identification information from the terminal that has accessed the server via the Internet, and an authentication unit that performs authentication to allow the terminal to obtain the schedule associated with the identification information.

A content distribution method according to an embodiment of the present invention includes the steps of: storing a plurality of pieces of content corresponding to a plurality of types of information related to a single product that is the subject of sales promotion; outputting one piece of content from the plurality of pieces of content by an output unit; displaying a selection input section corresponding to the plurality of pieces of content on a touch panel screen; accepting an input operation by the selection input section; and, when an input operation is performed by the selection input section, switching the content corresponding to the selection input section to be output by the output unit.

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the overall configuration of a content distribution system. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a system configuration of a management server and a store terminal. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a system configuration of a terminal control unit of the store terminal. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a system configuration of a terminal storage device of a store terminal. FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing an installation state of a store terminal in a store. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a screen of a store terminal outputting content. FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing a content configuration. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a terminal management screen of the management server. 1A is an explanatory diagram showing a distribution management table, and FIG. 1B is an explanatory diagram showing a terminal management table. 13A is an explanatory diagram showing a content management table, and FIG. 13B is an explanatory diagram showing a notice management table. 1A is an explanatory diagram showing a selection frequency information table, and FIG. 1B is an explanatory diagram showing a number-of-viewers information table. 5A and 5B are explanatory diagrams showing the relationship between a selection input operation and an output pattern of content. FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing the relationship between a planned download period and a planned output period. 1 is a flowchart showing content production and distribution operations. 11 is a flowchart showing a terminal management process of the management server. 5 is a flowchart showing a main control process of the store terminal. 11 is a flowchart showing a periodic access process of a store terminal. 11 is a flowchart showing a download process of a store terminal. 11 is a flowchart showing a content output process of a store terminal. 11 is a flowchart showing a content erasing process of a store terminal.

The content distribution system of this embodiment will be described with reference to Figs. 1 to 20. Reference numeral 1 in Fig. 1 denotes the content distribution system. The content distribution system 1 includes a management server 3 installed at a content distribution company 2, and a store terminal 5 located at a store 4. In this embodiment, the store terminal 5 is exemplified by a tablet terminal. In the following description, it is assumed that the content distribution company 2 holds the ownership of the store terminal 5 and the copyright of the content to be distributed.

As shown in FIG. 1, the store 4 in which the store terminal 5 is installed is located in a remote location away from the content distribution company 2. There may be multiple stores 4. Furthermore, multiple store terminals 5 may be installed in one store 4. The store terminals 5 are connected to a LAN 6 managed by each store 4. The LAN 6 of each store 4 is connected to the Internet 8 via a router 7 having a firewall function. The LAN 6 constructed in the store 4 may be a wired LAN or a wireless LAN. A wireless router may be connected to the wired LAN, and the store terminal 5 may be connected using this wireless LAN.

The management server 3 is connected to the Internet 8. In other words, the store terminals 5 can connect to the management server 3 via the Internet 8. A predetermined fixed IP address is assigned to the management server 3. The IP address of the management server 3 is stored in the store terminals 5 in advance, and the store terminals 5 can access the management server 3 at will. It is not necessary for the management server 3 to access the store terminals 5, but only for the store terminals 5 to access the management server 3. The management server 3 accumulates content to be output (played) using the store terminals 5, and distributes it to each store terminal 5 via the Internet 8.

The content output by each store terminal 5 may be video, still images, audio, text information, or a combination of these. In this embodiment, the term video also includes audio that is output together with the video. In other words, the term displaying (outputting) a video also includes outputting audio together with the video.

In this embodiment, the store terminal 5 accesses the management server 3 at regular intervals (e.g., every 5 minutes). At this regular access, the store terminal 5 obtains the corresponding schedule. Note that the schedule in this embodiment includes a planned download period for downloading content to be output using the store terminal 5 from the management server 3, a planned output period for outputting the downloaded content at the store terminal 5, and the start and stop times of the store terminal 5. Other schedules may also be included.

The operation of the store terminals 5 is controlled based on these schedules. In other words, the schedules obtained from the management server 3 include control information (command information) for the store terminals 5. Furthermore, the schedules may be schedules corresponding to each store terminal 5, or may be schedules corresponding to each group or each store.

The store terminal 5 is automatically started at the start time set by the schedule obtained from the management server 3. If it is a scheduled download period, the store terminal 5 downloads the corresponding content. If it is a scheduled output period, the store terminal 5 outputs the corresponding content. The store terminal 5 is automatically stopped (shut down) at the stop time. In this manner, in this embodiment, the operation of each store terminal 5 is managed by the content distribution company 2. In other words, there is no need for staff at each store 4 to manage the store terminal 5. At each store 4, an employee of the content distribution company 2 installs the store terminal 5 at the store 4, and then content can be automatically distributed without any operation by the store 4 staff.

The content distribution company 2 has a program production unit 10 that produces TV shopping programs to be broadcast via TV stations 9, a store terminal distribution unit 11 that distributes re-edited versions of these programs to each store terminal 5, and an online distribution unit 80 that distributes the programs online via the Internet 8. In this embodiment, the content (video) that has been re-edited so that the TV shopping programs can be used on the store terminals 5 is distributed.

Television shopping is a form of mail order sales in which a product 12 (see Figure 5) that is the subject of sales promotion is introduced on television broadcasts and orders are received from viewers by telephone or other means. It is convenient for consumers because they can obtain the product 12 from the comfort of their own home. Since a product 12 advertised on television shopping in this way is expected to increase in sales, each store 4 will also start selling the product 12.

When product 12 is displayed in store 4, consumers may want to know more about product 12. In such a case, even if they ask a staff member at store 4, detailed information cannot be obtained if the staff member does not know about the product. With conventional technology, it is difficult to obtain the amount of information provided on a TV shopping program at a storefront. Therefore, by installing a store terminal 5 in store 4, consumers can obtain detailed information about product 12.

In this embodiment, the store terminal distribution unit 11 is a department that creates and distributes content to answer questions consumers have about the product 12. The online distribution unit 80 is a department that specializes in creating and distributing content for online distribution.

The store terminal distribution unit 11 is provided to distribute content to the store terminals 5 installed in each store 4. On the other hand, the internet distribution unit 80 is provided to distribute content to terminals other than the store terminals 5 (for example, personal computers). Here, when the internet distribution unit 80 distributes content, it may distribute the content using its own WEB server (not shown) or another company's WEB server (not shown). The terminals to which the internet distribution unit 80 distributes may be terminals installed in each store 4 or terminals installed in ordinary homes. Furthermore, when the internet distribution unit 80 distributes, authentication information such as a password is notified in advance to users who have a contract with the content distribution company 2. Then, when these users access the content distribution company 2, authentication using the authentication information is performed, and distribution may be performed only to authorized users.

As shown in FIG. 5, when a product 12 is displayed on a specified display stand 13, a store terminal 5 is placed near the product 12. For example, the product 12 stored in a presentation box is placed on each shelf of the display stand 13. Furthermore, a sample of the product 12 and the store terminal 5 are placed on the top shelf of the display stand 13. A consumer who wishes to purchase the product 12 takes the product 12 stored in the presentation box placed on each shelf of the display stand 13 to the cash register. The store terminal 5 is placed in an upright position using a specified holder 14. A consumer can touch the screen of the touch panel 15 of the placed store terminal 5 to operate it, which is so-called touch operation.

The store terminal 5 is provided with a main switch 16 on the front side, but the input operation reception function of this main switch 16 is disabled. In addition, the functions of devices that are not directly related to the output of content, such as a USB connector (not shown), are also disabled. To enable these disabled functions, it is necessary to enter a release code set by the content distribution company 2.

In this way, the store terminal 5 will not be operated carelessly. Also, there is no risk of content stored in the store terminal 5 being illegally copied. Furthermore, a camera 17 is provided on the front side of the store terminal 5 to capture images of people standing in front of the touch panel 15. Images are taken continuously using this camera 17. By taking images continuously, crimes such as shoplifting of products 12 using the store terminal 5 can be prevented. The store terminal 5 may also be equipped with a GPS receiver to constantly monitor its location.

Note that in the past, it has been common to place a TV monitor next to a product and use this TV monitor to play a video explaining the product. It is also common to distribute video via the Internet. In contrast, the store terminal 5 of this embodiment is completely different from the technology of simply playing explanatory videos; it is a terminal that aims to appropriately suggest information that meets the needs of the consumer in front of the monitor and to provide prompt and complete answers to the consumer's questions. In other words, the content distribution system 1 of this embodiment is not just a video monitor technology, but has many original technologies.

As shown in FIG. 6, the screen of the touch panel 15 displays one main display section 18 (output section) on which a content image is displayed, and five (multiple) selection input sections 19 (selection input buttons) with a smaller display area than the main display section 18. In this embodiment, the five selection input sections 19 are arranged vertically on the right side of the screen. The main display section 18 is arranged to the left of the selection input section 19. Furthermore, below the main display section 18, a notification display section 20 that displays the contents of notifications is provided. Also, below the notification display section 20, a store clerk call button 21 and a voice recognition button 22 are provided.

The main display unit 18 displays one of the multiple contents stored in the store terminal 5. In this embodiment, multiple contents are produced for one type of product 12 that is the target of sales promotion. These multiple contents consist of one main content and multiple sub-contents with shorter playback times than the main content. For example, the main content has a playback time of about 30 minutes, the same as videos used in TV shopping. On the other hand, each sub-content consists of a short video that provides a detailed introduction to the product 12, and each has a playback time of about 3 minutes.

In the following description, multiple pieces of content corresponding to one type of product 12 may be referred to as a content group. A single store terminal 5 stores multiple content groups corresponding to multiple types of products 12. These content groups are downloaded from the management server 3 according to the planned download period, and output (played) at the store terminal 5 according to the planned output period. Each content group is downloaded or output during a separate period. In other words, the planned download periods corresponding to each content group do not overlap, and the planned output periods do not overlap.

The selection input unit 19 is a button that the consumer can operate by touching the touch panel 15, and is provided to select the content to be displayed on the main display unit 18. For example, when the main content is displayed on the main display unit 18, the consumer wishes to see a "usage scene." In this case, the consumer touches the selection input unit 19 that corresponds to the "usage scene" (the second selection input unit 19 from the top in FIG. 6). Then, the video displayed on the main display unit 18 switches to a video of the sub-content of the "usage scene."

The number of times the subcontent selected by the consumer is selected is counted. The subcontents are then rearranged in descending order of the number of times they have been selected. For example, of five selection input units 19 arranged vertically, the subcontents selected most frequently are arranged from the top. In other words, when the selection input units 19 are arranged vertically, the content selected most frequently is made to correspond to the topmost selection input unit. Specifically, when "What is ____?" corresponds to the topmost selection input unit 19 in the initial display mode, if "Usage scene" has been selected many times, "Usage scene" is changed to correspond to the topmost selection input unit 19. In this way, subcontents that consumers are particularly interested in will be selected many times, so by changing the subcontents corresponding to each selection input unit 19 according to the number of selections, it becomes easier for the consumer to perform input operations.

In this embodiment, characters (text data) are displayed on the selection input unit 19, but an image using a part of a video of the sub-content may also be displayed on the selection input unit 19. Furthermore, the image displayed on the selection input unit 19 may be not only a still image but also a video.

The store terminal 5 transmits aggregated information on the trends of consumers at the store 4 to the management server 3 at regular access times (e.g., every 5 minutes). This aggregated information includes information that can identify the number of times each subcontent was selected, the time of selection, the number of viewers of each content, and the time of viewing.

In this embodiment, the multiple selection input units 19 are arranged vertically, but the multiple selection input units 19 may be arranged horizontally. Also, although an example in which five selection input units 19 are displayed is shown, it is sufficient to have at least one selection input unit 19. Also, there may be six or more selection input units 19. Also, the number of selection input units 19 and the number of sub-contents may be the same, or the number of sub-contents may be greater than the number of selection input units 19.

As shown in FIG. 7, in this embodiment, sub-contents are produced in greater number than the number of selection input units 19. Furthermore, the sub-contents correspond to each of the multiple types of information related to one type of product 12. Furthermore, the sub-contents are made up of first-level sub-contents, the number of which is the same as the number of selection input units 19, and second-level and higher-level sub-contents corresponding to these contents. Note that there is only one main content corresponding to one type of product 12.

The type of subcontent in the first layer corresponds to the type of subcontent in the second layer. For example, if the subcontent in the first layer is "Usage scene (Pattern 1)," the subcontent in the second layer corresponds to "Usage scene (Pattern 2)," "Usage scene (Pattern 3)," and so on. In other words, even for one type of usage scene, various patterns of usage scenes are created in advance by changing the performers 23 (see Figure 6) or the situation.

The sub-contents in the first layer correspond to the selection input units 19 in the initial display. When any of these sub-contents in the first layer is selected, the sub-contents in the second layer that correspond to the type of the selected sub-content are made to correspond to the selection input units 19. For example, when "Usage scene (pattern 1)" is selected from the five selection input units 19 in the initial display, the five selection input units 19 are changed to correspond to other patterns of usage scenes, such as "Usage scene (pattern 2)" and "Usage scene (pattern 3)." The consumer can then select other patterns of usage scenes.

When a consumer selects one type of subcontent, the selection input unit 19 may be changed to correspond to another type of subcontent. For example, when "Usage scene (pattern 1)" is selected, the selection input unit 19 may be changed to correspond to "Voices of regular users (pattern 1)," "Voices of regular users (pattern 2)," or "Reasons for popularity (pattern 2)," etc.

Also, each subcontent may be randomly changed to correspond to the selection input unit 19. Furthermore, the store terminal 5 may learn the patterns in which consumers select subcontent, and change the subcontent corresponding to the selection input unit 19 in accordance with this learning. Also, the order of the subcontents may be rearranged in accordance with this learning. In other words, the store terminal 5 may be provided with a machine learning unit that changes or rearranges the order of the subcontents.

As shown in FIG. 6, the voice recognition button 22 allows the consumer to select sub-content by voice, without touching the selection input unit 19. First, the consumer touches the voice recognition button 22. Then, when the consumer says "I want to see the usage scenes," the voice is picked up by the microphone 38 (see FIG. 2) of the store terminal 5, and the store terminal 5 performs the same operation as when the selection input unit 19 for "usage scenes" is touched. In this way, the selection input unit of this embodiment does not have to be in the form of a selection button displayed on the screen of the touch panel 15, but may instead perform processing in response to the consumer's voice picked up by the microphone 38.

In addition, if the sub-contents in the first layer correspond to the selection input unit 19 in the initial display, the sub-contents in the second layer that do not correspond to the selection input unit 19 may be made to be able to be called up by voice recognition.

The consumer may also ask questions by voice. For example, the store terminal 5 may learn voices corresponding to various questions in advance, and may be able to select subcontents based on this learning. Furthermore, requests that do not correspond to the type of subcontent may be accepted by voice. For example, if a consumer wishes to view only scenes featuring a specific performer 23, the consumer may say, "I want to see scenes featuring Mr./Ms. XX," and subcontents including scenes featuring the specific performer 23 may be called up.

The consumer's voice picked up by the microphone 38 is analyzed by a voice recognition unit 58 (see FIG. 3) provided in the store terminal 5. This voice recognition unit 58 analyzes the consumer's voice based on a voice recognition algorithm.

The voice recognition unit 58 may also be equipped with secretary function application software as a speech analysis and recognition interface. This software uses natural language processing to answer questions from consumers. For example, if a consumer asks by voice, "What colors do you have?", the voice recognition unit 58 can analyze the content of the question, derive an answer, and respond by voice output, "We have red, white, and black." The voice recognition unit 58 may also identify the language the consumer is speaking, for example, Japanese, English, or Chinese, and respond in the corresponding language.

The store clerk call button 21 is used by a consumer to call a store clerk at the store 4. For example, when a consumer touches the store clerk call button 21, a notification is sent from the store terminal 5 via the LAN 6 to a mobile terminal (not shown) carried by the store clerk. The store clerk who receives this notification can rush to the location where the product 12 is sold to assist the consumer. In addition, when the store clerk call button 21 is touched, the store terminal 5 may send a notification to the management computer (not shown) of the store 4. In addition, when the store clerk call button 21 is touched, the store terminal 5 may output an alarm sound to call a store clerk.

The notification display unit 20 displays information to be notified to consumers at each store 4 in the form of text (text data). The content to be displayed on this notification display unit 20 can be inputted from the management server 3. The information downloaded from the management server 3 includes information that can identify the content to be displayed on the notification display unit 20.

In this embodiment, the main display section 18 of the touch panel 15 can display content while displaying a selection input section 19 for other content, making it easier for consumers to perform input operations to select other content.

Next, the system configuration of the management server 3 or the store terminal 5 will be described with reference to the block diagrams shown in Figures 2 to 4. Note that the configuration shown in this block diagram is an example, and other configurations may be included in the management server 3 or the store terminal 5.

The management server 3 or the store terminal 5 of this embodiment is configured as a computer having hardware resources such as a CPU, ROM, RAM, and HDD (or non-volatile memory), and the CPU executes various programs to realize information processing by software using the hardware resources. Furthermore, the content distribution method of this embodiment is realized by having the computer execute the content distribution program.

As shown in FIG. 2, the management server 3 includes a server control unit 24 that controls the management server 3, a server storage device 25 that stores various information such as content for terminal distribution and the schedule of the store terminal 5, a communication unit 26 that communicates with the store terminal 5 via the Internet 8, a real-time clock 27 used to obtain the current time, an input unit 28 that allows the administrator to input various information, and a display unit 29 that outputs various information.

The server control unit 24 is composed of a CPU and the like. The server storage device 25 is composed of a HDD and the like. The input unit 28 is composed of a keyboard and a mouse and the like. The display unit 29 is composed of a display and the like.

The server control unit 24 includes a main control unit 30 that executes main control processing, a schedule reception unit 31 that receives input operations for setting schedules corresponding to each store terminal 5, a terminal ID reception unit 32 (identification information reception unit) that receives a terminal ID (identification information) that can individually identify each store terminal 5 from the store terminal 5 that has accessed via the Internet 8, and an authentication unit 33 that authenticates the terminal ID.

The server storage device 25 includes a distribution information storage unit 34 that stores distribution information including content for terminal distribution and notification contents, a schedule storage unit 35 that stores schedules set for each store terminal 5 in association with each terminal ID, and an aggregate information storage unit 36 that stores aggregate information received from each store terminal 5.

As shown in FIG. 2, the store terminal 5 includes a touch panel 15 (output unit) that displays content and accepts input operations, a camera 17 of a person in front of the touch panel 15, a speaker 37 (output unit) that outputs audio related to the content, a microphone 38 that acquires audio, a terminal control unit 39 that controls the store terminal 5, a terminal storage device 40 that stores various information such as content and schedules, a communication unit 41 (access unit) that communicates with the management server 3 via the Internet 8 at regular intervals, a real-time clock 42 used to acquire the current time, a startup control unit 43 that controls the startup of the store terminal 5, and a stop control unit 44 that controls the shutdown of the store terminal 5.

The authentication unit 33 performs authentication to allow the store terminal 5 to acquire the schedule and content associated with the terminal ID (identification information). A store terminal 5 authorized by the authentication unit 33 can acquire the schedule and content corresponding to the terminal ID from the management server 3. On the other hand, a store terminal 5 not authorized by the authentication unit 33 has its communication with the management server 3 cut off. In this embodiment, since only communication from the store terminal 5 to the management server 3 is performed, even if the store terminal 5 is installed within the LAN 6 on the store 4 side, the schedule of the store terminal 5 can be managed by the management server 3.

The terminal control unit 39 is configured with a CPU and the like. The terminal storage device 40 is configured with a non-volatile memory and the like. The start control unit 43 includes control by a BIOS (Basic Input/Output System). The stop control unit 44 includes control by an OS (Operating System).

The real-time clock 27, 42 (RTC) outputs time information indicating the current time and calendar information indicating the date and day of the week. The real-time clock 27, 42 may also output a startup time calculated by integrating the time from when the power was turned on to the present. Furthermore, the real-time clock 27, 42 may also have a timer function that integrates the time from a specified start time to a specified end time.

In this embodiment, the output unit is composed of both the speaker 37 that outputs sound and the touch panel 15 that displays images related to the content (images displayed on the main display unit 18), but the output unit may be composed of either the speaker 37 or the touch panel 15.

The speaker 37 in this embodiment may be a directional speaker that limits the range in which sound spreads to a certain direction. By using this directional speaker, audio for product explanations can be output so that it can be heard only by consumers in front of the store terminal 5. This avoids causing inconvenience to other people in the vicinity of the store terminal 5.

As shown in FIG. 3, the terminal control unit 39 includes a main control unit 45 that executes main control processing, a display control unit 46 that controls display on the screen of the touch panel 15, an input acceptance unit 47 that accepts input operations such as the selection input unit 19 via the touch panel 15, a switching unit 48 that switches the output of the content corresponding to the selection input unit 19 when an input operation is performed on the selection input unit 19, a change unit 49 that changes the content corresponding to each selection input unit 19 based on the number of selections, a download unit 50 that downloads the content from the management server 3 and stores it in the terminal storage device 40, a download period determination unit 51 that determines whether the current time (date) is included in the planned download period, and a terminal status transmission unit 52 that transmits the operating status of the store terminal 5 to the management server 3.

The terminal control unit 39 further includes an output end determination unit 53 that determines whether the current time (date) is after the planned output period for which the content is scheduled to be output has elapsed, an erasure unit 54 that erases unnecessary content from the terminal storage device 40, a selection count transmission unit 55 that transmits to the management server 3 tally information that can identify the number of times each piece of content has been selected, a selection time transmission unit 56 that transmits to the management server 3 tally information that can identify the time each piece of content was selected, and a face recognition unit 57 that can analyze the facial parts of people included in images of people captured by the camera 17 based on a face recognition algorithm to identify people individually.

The terminal control unit 39 further includes a voice recognition unit 58 that can analyze the consumer's voice acquired by the microphone 38 based on a voice recognition algorithm to identify questions, a number transmission unit 59 that counts the number of consumers who have been in front of the touch panel 15 for a certain period of time or longer based on information obtained by analyzing an image captured by the camera 17 using the face recognition unit 57 and transmits this counted information to the management server 3, and a terminal ID transmission unit 60 (identification information transmission unit) that transmits the terminal ID when accessing the management server 3.

The terminal ID (identification information) that the terminal ID transmission unit 60 transmits to the management server 3 is a physical address (terminal number) that is uniquely assigned to the hardware. Note that the terminal ID may be information that is individually assigned to the software installed in the store terminal 5, or information stored in the USB dongle.

When the terminal ID transmission unit 60 transmits the terminal ID to the management server 3, it may also transmit status information indicating the operating status of the store terminal 5. For example, it may transmit to the management server 3 status information including information indicating whether or not the store terminal 5 is operating normally, whether or not content is being downloaded, or whether or not content is being output. The management server 3 can grasp the operating status of each store terminal 5 based on the status information received from each store terminal 5.

The display control unit 46 controls the display of at least the main display unit 18 and the selection input unit 19 on the screen of the touch panel 15. Here, the display control unit 46 controls the display of the multiple selection input units 19 on the screen of the touch panel 15 in a predetermined order.

The face recognition unit 57 is a processing circuit that identifies the facial parts of a person from the visible light image captured by the camera 17 and identifies a large number of people individually using a known face recognition algorithm. An integrated circuit (IC) specialized for face recognition may also be used as the face recognition unit 57. A microcomputer with relatively high processing power that incorporates a face recognition program that programs a face recognition algorithm can be used as this face recognition unit 57.

As shown in FIG. 4, the terminal storage device 40 includes a content storage unit 61 that stores multiple contents corresponding to multiple types of information related to one product that is the target of sales promotion, a schedule setting unit 62 that acquires a schedule associated with the terminal ID from the management server 3 and sets the schedule, a counting unit 63 that counts the number of times that the content corresponding to the selection input unit 19 is selected when an input operation is performed on the selection input unit 19, a selection time storage unit 64 that stores the time when the content corresponding to the selection input unit 19 is selected when an input operation is performed on the selection input unit 19, a viewer number storage unit 65 that stores the number of consumers who viewed the content output by the touch panel 15, and a viewing time storage unit 66 that stores the time when each consumer viewed the content.

The schedule setting unit 62 is set with a schedule input by an administrator who manages the management server 3. The store terminal 5 accesses the management server 3 at regular intervals, and if the schedule corresponding to this store terminal 5 has been updated, it is acquired. The schedule is then set in the schedule setting unit 62. In this way, even if the store terminal 5 is installed within the LAN 6 on the store 4 side, the management server 3 can manage the schedule of the store terminal 5. Also, it becomes unnecessary for a staff member of the store 4 where the store terminal 5 is installed to operate the store terminal 5 to set the schedule. Also, the schedule can be updated collectively using the management server 3 without having to operate each store terminal 5 installed in each store 4 individually.

In this embodiment, multiple store terminals 5 can be managed for each store or for each specified group. Therefore, schedule updates can also be performed for each store or for each specified group. Here, updating the schedule for each store refers to a case where the schedules of multiple store terminals 5 installed in one store 4 are updated collectively. Note that groups can be set, for example, for each area such as Kanto or Kansai, for each prefecture, or for each product. Updating the schedule for each group refers to a case where the schedules of multiple store terminals 5 associated with one group are updated collectively.

When a touch operation is performed on the selection input unit 19, the count unit 63 counts up the number of times the subcontent corresponding to this selection input unit 19 is selected. The selection time at this time (for example, a time divided into five-minute intervals) is stored in the selection time storage unit 64. The number of selections and the selection time may be associated and stored in the count unit 63. Also, the face recognition unit 57 may be used to individually identify the consumer who performed the touch operation, and the number of times the subcontent was selected may be stored together with information about this consumer.

In this way, it is possible to tally up which of the sub-contents is most frequently selected. Also, if the sub-contents correspond to certain questions, it is possible to tally up which of the questions is most frequently asked.

Furthermore, the aggregate information including the number of selections and the selection time is sent to the management server 3 by the selection count sending unit 55 each time the store terminal 5 accesses the management server 3. In this way, the number of selections corresponding to each piece of content can be obtained by the management server 3, making it possible to grasp the content in which the consumer is interested. Furthermore, the selection time of each piece of content can be grasped by the management server 3. For example, by comparing the time at which the content was selected obtained by the store terminal 5 with point-of-sale information obtained by a POS system (point-of-sale information management system), the relationship between viewing of content and actual purchasing behavior can be grasped.

In this embodiment, the store terminal 5 transmits aggregate information including the number of selections at regular intervals, but the number of selections may be transmitted each time a content is selected. In other words, the store terminal 5 and the management server 3 may be constantly connected, and each time a content is selected, the information may be transmitted to the management server 3.

In this embodiment, the face recognition unit 57 can individually identify consumers who have viewed the content output by the store terminal 5, thereby counting the number of people who have viewed the content. For example, a person who has been in front of the touch panel 15 for a certain period of time or more (e.g., 30 seconds or more) is recognized as a consumer who has viewed the content (a consumer who has an interest in the product 12), and the number of people is counted. This number is stored in the number-of-viewers storage unit 65. In addition, the viewing time at this time (e.g., a time divided into five-minute intervals) is stored in the viewing time storage unit 66. The number of viewers and the viewing time may be associated and stored in the number-of-viewers storage unit 65.

Furthermore, the face recognition unit 57 can recognize the consumer's gender, race, age, facial expression (emotion), eye movement, viewing time, etc. Furthermore, the number of viewers can be stored in the number of viewers memory unit 65 as information associated with gender or age, etc. Note that this information is stored in the number of viewers memory unit 65 in association with the viewed content. Furthermore, this information may be stored in association with each of multiple contents. With this information, it is possible to count which of the multiple contents output by the store terminal 5 is viewed the most. Also, it is possible to count the presence or absence of interest in the product 12 corresponding to the content.

Furthermore, the aggregate information including the number of viewers is sent to the management server 3 using the number-of-viewers sending unit 59 each time the store terminal 5 accesses the management server 3. In this way, the management server 3 can grasp the number of people who have viewed the content. Therefore, the store terminal 5 of the content distribution system 1 can be used as a marketing tool for the product 12 that is the target of sales promotion.

Next, the operation of the store terminal 5 will be described. As shown in FIG. 12(A), when the store terminal 5 is outputting the main content using the main display unit 18 and the speaker 37, if the store terminal 5 does not receive any operation, the output of the main content will start again after the playback time of the main content has ended. In other words, the main content will be played back repeatedly.

The switching unit 48 provided in the store terminal 5 of this embodiment outputs the sub-content using the main display unit 18 and the speaker 37, and then switches to outputting the main content using the main display unit 18 and the speaker 37. In this way, if no one operates the touch panel 15 while the sub-content is being output, the main content is automatically output, so sales promotion of the product 12 can continue. Also, by including information detailing the product's contents in the sub-content, which has a short playback time, consumers can obtain the information they want in a short amount of time, and product turnover can be improved.

As shown in FIG. 12(B), when main content is being output using the main display unit 18 and speaker 37 at the store terminal 5, if the consumer touches the selection input unit 19, output of the main content ends and output of the sub-content 1 corresponding to the touched selection input unit 19 begins. After output of the sub-content 1 ends, output of the main content begins again. Note that output of the main content may be resumed from the beginning of the main content, or from the part where output of the main content was interrupted.

As shown in FIG. 12(C), when main content is being output using the main display unit 18 and speaker 37 at the store terminal 5, if the consumer touches the selection input unit 19, output of the main content ends and output of sub-content 1 corresponding to the touched selection input unit 19 begins. Then, when the consumer touches the selection input unit 19 while this sub-content 1 is being output, output of this sub-content 1 ends and output of sub-content 2 corresponding to the touched selection input unit 19 begins. Then, after output of this sub-content 2 ends, output of the main content begins again.

As shown in FIG. 13, one store terminal 5 can be used to output content for multiple products according to their respective planned output periods. For example, during the promotion period for product A, a store terminal 5 can be installed near product A to output content, and when the promotion period for product A ends, a store terminal 5 can be installed near the next product B to output content. The planned output periods for content corresponding to each product are set so that they do not overlap.

The store 4 notifies the content distribution company 2 in advance of the management of these schedules. The content distribution company 2 then sets the planned download period for each piece of content according to the planned output period for each piece of content. Note that downloading is performed for each content group. In other words, when downloading, multiple pieces of content corresponding to one product are handled as one set. Note that, as long as they are within the planned download period, each piece of content in a set may be downloaded at a different time.

For example, the planned download period for product A is set before the planned output period for the content group of product A. This planned download period is set to a period from one week before the planned output period to the day before. During this planned download period, the store terminal 5 downloads the content group of product A.

In this way, the content groups to be output can be downloaded in advance before the scheduled output period for each content group. Also, since the downloads are performed at any time during the scheduled download period, the line used for downloading can be disconnected while the content is being output, and the line status does not affect the output of the content.

In this embodiment, the download unit 50 provided in the store terminal 5 performs a process of downloading a content group corresponding to the planned download period from the management server 3 and storing it in the content storage unit 61 when the current time (date) is included in the planned download period. In this way, even if the store terminal 5 is installed within the LAN 6 on the store 4 side, the management server 3 can manage the download of the content group of the store terminal 5. In addition, it is not necessary for a staff member of the store 4 where the store terminal 5 is installed to operate the store terminal 5 to download the content group.

In addition, during the first planned output period during which the content related to the first product is scheduled to be output, the download unit 50 performs a process of downloading content related to a second product, which is different from the first product, from the management server 3 and storing the content in the content storage unit 61. In this way, the content related to the second product scheduled to be output next can be downloaded while the content related to the first product is being output. Therefore, after the first planned output period for the content related to the first product has elapsed, the output of the content related to the second product can immediately begin.

The planned download periods for the content groups corresponding to each product may be set to overlap. Even if multiple planned download periods overlap, each download is performed individually. For example, if the planned download period for the content group of product A overlaps with the planned download period for the content group of product B, the download of the content group of product B will start after the download of the content group of product A has finished. This avoids putting a strain on the network lines.

If an error occurs during the download of the content group of product B, the download is performed again. Then, the download of the content group of product B is terminated before the scheduled output period of the content of product B begins. Note that the distribution status of the download of the content group can be grasped by the management server 3, so if an error occurs, an employee of the content distribution company 2 can visit the store 4 to perform maintenance.

When the planned output period for the content of product A ends, the content of this product A is deleted from the content storage unit 61 of the store terminal 5. In other words, when the current time (date) is after the planned output period has elapsed, the deletion unit 54 of the store terminal 5 performs a process of deleting the content group corresponding to this planned output period from the content storage unit 61.

When the planned output period of the contents of product B begins, output of the contents of product B begins. After the download of the content group of product B is completed, the content group of product C, which has a planned output period set next to the planned output period of the contents of product B, is downloaded. In this embodiment, the content group of product C is not downloaded and is put into a standby state until the download of the content group of product B is completed. Note that when the planned output period of the contents of product B ends, the contents of product B are erased from the content storage unit 61 of the store terminal 5. Then, output of the contents of product C begins. This operation is repeated thereafter.

In other words, the content storage unit 61 of the store terminal 5 stores only two or three content groups, and never stores four or more content groups. In this way, no unnecessary content groups remain in the store terminal 5, and the capacity of the content storage unit 61 can be used effectively. Furthermore, for example, even if the store terminal 5 is taken by a third party, the content groups are automatically deleted when the scheduled output period has elapsed, preventing a situation in which the content groups are illegally used by a third party and protecting the copyright of the content groups.

Next, the management server 3 will be described. The administrator of the management server 3 can distribute each content group and manage each store terminal 5. As shown in FIG. 8, the management screen displayed on the display unit 29 of the management server 3 has a distribution management button 67 for managing the content distribution schedule, a terminal management button 68 for managing the store terminal 5, a content management button 69 for managing content, a notification management button 70 for managing notification content, a store management button 71 for managing the schedule of the store 4, and a user management button 72 for managing the administrator (user) of the management server 3.

For example, when the terminal management button 68 is selected and input, a terminal management screen is displayed. In this terminal management screen, the installed store 4 where each store terminal 5 is installed, the group name to which each store terminal 5 belongs, the content name downloaded by each store terminal 5, the update date and time indicating the date and time when each store terminal 5 most recently accessed, the download status of the content group, and the terminal status indicating whether each store terminal 5 is operating normally are displayed in association with the terminal ID (identification information) of each store terminal 5. In addition, an edit button 73 is provided for editing the schedule of each store terminal 5. When the edit button 73 is selected and input, the screen switches to an edit screen for the schedule. In addition, the terminal management screen is provided with a pull-down menu 74 that allows searching by store, and a pull-down menu 75 that allows searching by group.

As shown in FIG. 9(A), the schedule storage unit 35 of the management server 3 stores a distribution management table that manages the planned download period and planned output period of each store terminal 5. In this distribution management table, the installation store 4 where each store terminal 5 is installed, the group name to which each store terminal 5 belongs, the name of the content downloaded by each store terminal 5 (for example, the corresponding product name), the planned download period corresponding to this content, and the planned output period corresponding to this content are stored in association with the terminal ID (identification information) of each store terminal 5. Note that the planned download period or the planned output period may be set to include not only the date but also the time. Other information may also be stored in the distribution management table. This information can be edited by the administrator as desired.

9B, the schedule storage unit 35 of the management server 3 stores a terminal management table for managing each store terminal 5. In this terminal management table, the terminal name of each store terminal 5, the store 4 in which each store terminal 5 is installed, the group name to which each store terminal 5 belongs, the name of the content downloaded by each store terminal 5 (for example, the corresponding product name), the access interval indicating the interval at which each store terminal 5 accesses the management server 3, the start time of each store terminal 5, and the stop time of each store terminal 5 are stored in association with the terminal ID (identification information) of each store terminal 5. The start time and stop time may be set to include not only the time but also the day of the week or date. Other information may also be stored in the terminal management table. This information can be edited by the administrator as desired.

As shown in FIG. 10(A), the schedule storage unit 35 of the management server 3 stores a content management table for managing each content group. In this content management table, the content name of each content group (e.g., the corresponding product name), the distribution period of each content group, the distribution status of each content group, the file name of the main content, and the file name of the sub-content are stored in association with an identifiable content ID for each content group. The distribution period of each content group is the period during which each content group is available for downloading, and includes the planned download period set for each store terminal 5, and is set to be sufficiently longer than this planned download period. Other information may also be stored in the content management table. This information can be edited by the administrator as desired.

As shown in FIG. 10 (B), the schedule storage unit 35 of the management server 3 stores a notification management table for managing each notification content. This notification management table stores each notification name (e.g., a summary of the notification content), text data of each notification content, a distribution period of each notification content, and a distribution status of each notification content, in association with a notification ID that can identify each notification content. The distribution period of each notification content is the period during which each notification content is downloaded and output at the store terminal 5. The distribution period of the notification content is set separately from the planned download period (distribution period) of the content group. Other information may also be stored in the notification management table. This information can be edited by the administrator as desired.

As shown in FIG. 11(A), the tally information storage unit 36 of the management server 3 stores a selection count information table that tallies the number of times subcontents are selected. This selection count information table stores, in association with the terminal ID (identification information) of each store terminal 5, the store 4 in which each store terminal 5 is installed, the group name to which each store terminal 5 belongs, the corresponding content name (e.g., the corresponding product name), the selection time when the consumer touched the selection input unit 19 of the touch panel 15, and the number of selections corresponding to each subcontent. This information is stored based on the tally information transmitted from each store terminal 5 at regular intervals (e.g., every 5 minutes).

As shown in FIG. 11 (B), the tally information storage unit 36 provided in the management server 3 stores a viewer count information table that tallies the number of viewers of content. This viewer count information table stores, in association with the terminal ID (identification information) of each store terminal 5, the store 4 in which each store terminal 5 is installed, the group name to which each store terminal 5 belongs, the corresponding content name (e.g., the corresponding product name), the viewing time when the consumer viewed the content, the total number of viewers of the content, the number of male viewers, the number of female viewers, and the age group of viewers. This information is stored based on the tally information transmitted from each store terminal 5 at regular intervals (e.g., every 5 minutes).

By consolidating this information in the management server 3, the content distribution company 2 can centralize the management of each store terminal 5 and the distribution of content. In addition, the staff at each store 4 are no longer required to perform tasks related to the management of the store terminal 5 and the distribution of content.

Next, the content production and distribution process will be explained using the flowchart in FIG. 14. In the explanation of each step in the flowchart below, for example, "Step S11" will be abbreviated to "S11".

As shown in FIG. 14, first, the program production department 10 of the content distribution company 2 holds a meeting to produce a TV shopping program for a product 12 that is the target of sales promotion (S11). At this time, the performers 23 are decided. Note that the contract with the performers 23 specifies the period of time for which the footage will be used, and the broadcast period of the program and the distribution period of the content are also decided based on this period.

Next, the program production department 10 makes a list of the things consumers want to know about the product 12, and considers questions to be asked to the performers 23 in the TV shopping program (S12). The answers to these questions correspond to the sub-contents. Next, the program production department 10 creates a script for the TV shopping program based on the considered questions (S13).

The program production department 10 then records the program according to the created script (S14). Next, the program production department 10 takes product photos to introduce the target product 12 in detail (S15). Next, the program production department 10 takes photos of users' impressions of the product 12 after actually using it (S16). Next, the program production department 10 edits the taken footage (video) for television broadcast (S17). Next, the program production department 10 sends the completed footage for television broadcast to the television station 9, which then broadcasts the footage (S18).

Next, the store terminal distribution unit 11 of the content distribution company 2 performs a re-editing operation to create a video for terminal distribution using the footage used in the television broadcast and the footage not used in the television broadcast (S19). Next, the store terminal distribution unit 11 starts distribution of the video for terminal distribution (S20). Through this distribution, the content is downloaded to the store terminal 5 and can be played.

Next, the processes executed by the server control unit 24 of the management server 3 or the terminal control unit 39 of the store terminal 5 will be described with reference to the flowcharts of Figs. 15 to 20. Note that the block diagram shown in Fig. 2 will be referred to as appropriate. The processes described below are processes that are repeated at regular intervals. By repeating these processes, the content distribution method is executed using the content distribution system 1. Note that the processes described below may be executed by interrupting other processes being executed in each control unit.

Figure 15 shows the terminal management process executed by the server control unit 24 of the management server 3. First, the server control unit 24 uses the schedule reception unit 31 to receive input operations for setting schedules corresponding to each store terminal 5, or input operations for setting schedules corresponding to each content. Then, it is determined whether or not there is an input operation for setting schedules (S21).

Here, if there is no input operation for setting the schedule (NO in S21), the process proceeds to S23. On the other hand, if there is an input operation for setting the schedule (YES in S21), the input schedule is stored in the schedule storage unit 35 (S22), and the process proceeds to S23.

In S23, the server control unit 24 determines whether or not content has been input. If no content has been input (NO in S23), the process proceeds to S25. On the other hand, if content has been input (YES in S23), the input content is stored in the distribution information storage unit 34 (S24), and the process proceeds to S25.

In S25, the server control unit 24 determines whether or not there is access from the store terminal 5. If there is no access from the store terminal 5 (NO in S25), the process ends. On the other hand, if there is access from the store terminal 5 (YES in S25), the terminal ID receiving unit 32 receives the terminal ID (identification information) sent from the accessing store terminal 5 (S26), and the process proceeds to S27.

In S27, the authentication unit 33 of the server control unit 24 determines whether the received terminal ID (identification information) is valid, that is, whether the terminal ID is a terminal ID that has been preregistered as a management target in the management server 3. If authentication is not permitted (NO in S27), the process ends. On the other hand, if authentication is permitted (YES in S27), the process proceeds to S28.

In S28, the server control unit 24 receives the tally information from the store terminal 5, and updates the information in the various tables stored in the tally information storage unit 36 based on the received tally information. Note that the information in the various tables stored in the schedule storage unit 35 may also be updated based on the received tally information.

Next, the server control unit 24 refers to the schedule storage unit 35 and determines whether the schedule associated with the received terminal ID (identification information) has been updated, that is, whether there is a new schedule associated with the received terminal ID (S29). If there is no new schedule (NO in S29), the process proceeds to S31. On the other hand, if there is a new schedule (YES in S29), the process transmits the new schedule to the store terminal 5 (S30) and proceeds to S31.

In S31, the server control unit 24 determines whether there is a content group associated with the received terminal ID (identification information) that is within the scheduled download period but has not yet been downloaded. If there is no content group that has not yet been downloaded (NO in S31), the process ends. On the other hand, if there is a content group that has not yet been downloaded (YES in S31), the server control unit 24 notifies the store terminal 5 of an instruction to download this content group (S32), and ends the process.

Figure 16 shows the main control process executed by the terminal control unit 39 of the store terminal 5. First, the terminal control unit 39 of the store terminal 5 executes a periodic access process to access the management server 3 at the time of periodic access at regular intervals (e.g., every 5 minutes) (S41).

Next, the download unit 50 of the terminal control unit 39 executes a download process to download the content group from the management server 3 and store it in the content storage unit 61 (S42). Next, the display control unit 46 and the switching unit 48 of the terminal control unit 39 execute a content output process to output the content using the main display unit 18 and the speaker 37 (S43). Next, the erasure unit 54 of the terminal control unit 39 executes a content erasure process to erase the unnecessary content from the content storage unit 61 (S44), and the process ends.

Figure 17 shows the periodic access process executed by the terminal control unit 39 of the store terminal 5. First, the terminal control unit 39 of the store terminal 5 refers to the real-time clock 42 and determines whether the current time is the periodic access timing (S51). If it is not the periodic access timing (NO in S51), the process ends. On the other hand, if it is the periodic access timing (YES in S51), the management server 3 is accessed via the communication unit 41 (S52). Next, the terminal ID transmission unit 60 of the terminal control unit 39 transmits the terminal ID (identification information) to the management server 3 (S53). Note that status information indicating the operating status of the store terminal 5 is transmitted in association with the terminal ID.

Next, the terminal control unit 39 judges whether or not authentication by the management server 3 has been permitted (S54). If authentication has not been permitted (NO in S54), the process ends. On the other hand, if authentication has been permitted (YES in S54), the latest tally information accumulated in the store terminal 5 and tallied based on the information stored in the terminal storage device 40 is transmitted to the management server 3 (S55). The tally information is transmitted by the selection count transmission unit 55, the selection time transmission unit 56, the number of people transmission unit 59, etc. Furthermore, each time tally information is transmitted to the management server 3, the transmitted tally information may be cleared.

Next, the terminal control unit 39 determines whether or not the management server 3 has a new schedule associated with the transmitted terminal ID (identification information) (S56). If the management server 3 does not have a new schedule (NO in S56), the process proceeds to S59. On the other hand, if the management server 3 has a new schedule (YES in S56), the terminal control unit 39 receives the new schedule from the management server 3 (S57), updates the settings of the schedule setting unit 62 based on the received schedule (S58), and proceeds to S59.

In S59, the terminal control unit 39 determines whether there is a content group that has not been downloaded that is associated with the transmitted terminal ID (identification information). If there is no content group that has not been downloaded (NO in S59), the process ends. On the other hand, if there is a content group that has not been downloaded (YES in S59), the process makes settings to execute the download process for the content group that has not been downloaded (S60), and ends the process.

Figure 18 shows the download process executed by the terminal control unit 39 of the store terminal 5. First, the download unit 50 of the terminal control unit 39 of the store terminal 5 determines whether or not a download of a content group is in progress (S61). If a download is not in progress (NO in S61), the process proceeds to S65, which will be described later. On the other hand, if a download is in progress (YES in S61), the download continues (S62) and the process proceeds to S63.

In S63, the download unit 50 determines whether the download of the content group has been completed. If the download has not been completed (NO in S63), the process ends. On the other hand, if the download has been completed (YES in S63), the downloaded content group is stored in the content storage unit 61 (S64), and the process proceeds to S65.

In S65, the download period determination unit 51 of the terminal control unit 39 refers to the real-time clock 42 and determines whether the current time (date) is within the planned download period for a specific content group set in the schedule setting unit 62. If it is not within the planned download period (NO in S65), the process ends. On the other hand, if it is within the planned download period (YES in S65), the process proceeds to S66.

In S66, the download unit 50 determines whether or not a setting has been made to download the content group that has not been downloaded in the periodic access process described above, i.e., whether or not there is any content group that has not been downloaded. If there is no content group that has not been downloaded (NO in S66), the process ends. On the other hand, if there is a content group that has not been downloaded (YES in S66), the management server 3 is accessed (S67), and the terminal ID transmission unit 60 transmits the terminal ID (identification information) to the management server 3 (S68).

The download unit 50 then determines whether or not authentication has been permitted by the management server 3 (S69). If authentication has not been permitted (NO in S69), the process ends. On the other hand, if authentication has been permitted (YES in S69), the download of the content group that has not yet been downloaded is started (S70), and the process ends.

Figure 19 shows the content output process executed by the terminal control unit 39 of the store terminal 5. First, the display control unit 46 of the terminal control unit 39 of the store terminal 5 displays the main display unit 18 on the screen of the touch panel 15 (S71). If content is being output, the process related to the output of that content is executed.

Next, the terminal control unit 39 outputs audio related to the content using the speaker 37 (S72). Next, the display control unit 46 displays the selection input unit 19 on the screen of the touch panel 15 (S73).

Next, the input reception unit 47 of the terminal control unit 39 determines whether or not a touch operation has been performed on the selection input unit 19 (S74). If a touch operation has been performed on the selection input unit 19 (YES in S74), the process proceeds to S77, which will be described later. On the other hand, if a touch operation has not been performed on the selection input unit 19 (NO in S74), the process proceeds to S75.

In S75, the input reception unit 47 determines whether or not the voice recognition button 22 has been touched. If the voice recognition button 22 has not been touched (NO in S75), the process proceeds to S81, which will be described later. On the other hand, if the voice recognition button 22 has been touched (YES in S75), a voice recognition process is executed to recognize the consumer's voice input via the microphone 38 (S76), and the process proceeds to S77. The voice recognition process is executed by the voice recognition unit 58, and a process of identifying the sub-content desired by the consumer is performed.

At S77, the switching unit 48 of the terminal control unit 39 performs a switching process to display, on the main display unit 18, the sub-content corresponding to the selection input unit 19 on which the touch operation was performed, or the sub-content identified by the voice recognition unit 58.

Next, the terminal control unit 39 counts up the number of selections stored in the count unit 63 corresponding to the subcontent corresponding to the touch operation performed on the selection input unit 19 or the subcontent identified by the voice recognition unit 58 (S78). Next, the terminal control unit 39 stores the selection time at which the touch operation or voice input was performed in the selection time storage unit 64 (S79).

Next, the change unit 49 of the terminal control unit 39 changes the subcontents corresponding to each selection input unit 19 based on the number of times the subcontents have been selected (S80). For example, the subcontents are rearranged in order of the number of times they have been selected. Note that the subcontents may also be rearranged in order of the likelihood of being selected next.

At S81, the terminal control unit 39 uses the camera 17 to capture an image of a person standing in front of the touch panel 15. Next, the face recognition unit 57 of the terminal control unit 39 executes face recognition processing to analyze the facial parts of the person contained in the image of the person captured by the camera 17 based on a face recognition algorithm and identify the person individually (S82).

Next, the terminal control unit 39 counts the number of consumers who stayed in front of the touch panel 15 for a certain period of time or more, and stores this number of viewers in the number-of-viewers storage unit 65 (S83). Next, the terminal control unit 39 stores the viewing time corresponding to this number of viewers in the viewing time storage unit 66 (S84).

Next, the terminal control unit 39 updates the tally information to be sent to the management server 3 based on the information stored in the counting unit 63, the selection time memory unit 64, the number of viewers memory unit 65, and the viewing time memory unit 66 (S85).

Next, when the sub-content is being displayed on the main display unit 18, the switching unit 48 determines whether or not it is time to end the output of the sub-content (S86). If it is not time to end the output of the sub-content (NO in S86), the process proceeds to S88. On the other hand, if it is time to end the output of the sub-content (YES in S86), the content displayed on the main display unit 18 is switched from the sub-content to the main content. Then, output of the main content is started (S87).

In S88, the input reception unit 47 determines whether or not the store clerk call button 21 has been touched. If the store clerk call button 21 has not been touched (NO in S88), the process ends. On the other hand, if the store clerk call button 21 has been touched (YES in S88), a store clerk call process is executed to give a predetermined notification to the store clerk (S89), and the process ends.

Figure 20 shows the content deletion process executed by the terminal control unit 39 of the store terminal 5. First, the output end determination unit 53 of the store terminal 5 obtains the current time (date) from the real-time clock 42, and determines whether the current time is after the planned output period of a specified content has elapsed. In other words, the output end determination unit 53 refers to the schedule setting unit 62 and determines whether any of the content groups stored in the content storage unit 61 has a content group whose planned output period has elapsed (S91).

If there is no content group whose planned output period has passed (NO in S91), the process ends. On the other hand, if there is a content group whose planned output period has passed (YES in S91), the erasing unit 54 of the terminal control unit 39 erases this content group from the content storage unit 61 (S92), and the process ends.

In the flowchart of this embodiment, an example is shown in which each step is executed in series, but the order of steps is not necessarily fixed, and the order of some steps may be reversed. Also, some steps may be executed in parallel with other steps.

The program executed by the system of this embodiment is provided in advance in a ROM or the like. Alternatively, this program may be provided stored in an installable or executable file format on a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium such as a CD-ROM, CD-R, memory card, DVD, or flexible disk (FD).

The programs executed by the system may also be stored on a computer connected to a network such as the Internet and provided by downloading them via the network. This system may also be configured by combining separate modules that independently perform the functions of the components and connect them together via a network or dedicated lines.

In this embodiment, there is one main content corresponding to one type of product 12, but multiple main contents corresponding to one type of product 12 may be provided.

In this embodiment, both the main display section 18 and the selection input section 19 are displayed on the screen of the touch panel 15, but only the selection input section 19 may be displayed on the screen of the touch panel 15.

In this embodiment, the output unit that outputs the content is configured with the main display unit 18 and the speaker 37, but the output unit may be configured with only the speaker 37. In other words, the content may be output only as sound. The touch panel 15 may not output the content, but may only be used to select sub-content.

In this embodiment, a video is used as an example of the content, but the content may be text information only.

In this embodiment, the content distribution system 1 is configured using one management server 3, but multiple servers may be used. For example, a distribution server that distributes content and a terminal management server that manages each store terminal 5 may be provided separately.

In this embodiment, the content output by the store terminal 5 is downloaded from the management server 3, but other configurations are also possible. For example, the content may be stored in the content storage unit 61 before the store terminal 5 is installed in the store 4. In other words, the store terminal 5 may be used as a stand-alone device without being connected to a network. In addition, an employee of the content distribution company 2 may store the content in a USB memory, and the content may be stored in the content storage unit 61 by connecting the USB memory to the store terminal 5.

In addition, multiple store terminals 5 may transmit and receive information to each other via the LAN 6 of the store 4. For example, content downloaded from the management server 3 using one store terminal 5 may be sent to another store terminal 5 via the LAN 6.

Although a tablet terminal is shown as an example of the store terminal 5, the store terminal 5 may be in other forms. For example, the store terminal 5 may be in the form of a notebook PC or a desktop PC.

In addition, the store terminal 5 may display on the screen a selection input section 19 corresponding to content other than the content being output by the main display section 18, or may display on the screen a selection input section 19 corresponding to the content being output by the main display section 18, and allow the content being output by the main display section 18 to be played from the beginning by touching the selection input section 19.

The store terminal 5 may also include a deep learning unit. The deep learning unit is a computer equipped with artificial intelligence (AI) that performs machine learning. This artificial intelligence may understand the consumer's question and derive an appropriate answer to it.

The content downloaded from the management server 3 or the content stored in the store terminal 5 may be encrypted.

It is also possible to store predetermined content unrelated to the products 12 in the content storage unit 61 of the store terminal 5, and display this predetermined content on the main display unit 18 of the touch panel 15 when it is not the scheduled output period for any of the products 12. It is also possible for this predetermined content to be a video introducing the store where the store is installed.

If the store terminal 5 is unable to answer the consumer's question through voice recognition, the consumer may perform a specified operation to connect to a call center. For example, if the store terminal 5 is unable to answer the consumer's question, a button for connecting to a call center may be displayed on the screen, and the consumer may touch this button to be connected to an operator (product expert) at the content distribution company 2. The store terminal 5 may then be used to have an interactive conversation with the operator in a format similar to a videophone (or a voice-only phone call), and the operator may answer the consumer's question. Also, instead of the store clerk call button 21, an operator call button may be displayed by default.

It is also possible to install multiple store terminals 5 within a store, and use the camera 17 of each store terminal 5 to detect consumer movements and store that information in a specified database, thereby making it possible to analyze consumer paths within the store.

In the content distribution system 1 of this embodiment, the content distribution company 2 remotely operates the store terminal 5, so that the store terminal 5 takes over the role of a store clerk at the store 4. The store terminal 5 can accurately answer consumer questions in place of the store clerk. Consumers can obtain the necessary information by touching the store terminal 5, call a store clerk using the store clerk call button 21, or call an operator from the content distribution company 2 using the operator call button. In other words, this is a system that allows consumers to instantly obtain the information they want about a product using the method they prefer.

The content distribution system 1 of this embodiment can instantly change the content output from the store terminal 5 according to product changes, consumer needs, seasons, and time of day.

The content distribution company 2 in which the management server 3 is installed and the store 4 in which the store terminal 5 is installed may be located in different countries.

According to the embodiment described above, by providing a switching unit that switches the content corresponding to the selection input unit to be output by the output unit, consumers can instantly obtain information that they are particularly interested in regarding products displayed in the store.

Although several embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, modifications, and combinations can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are within the scope of the invention and its equivalents as set forth in the claims, as well as the scope and spirit of the invention.

1...content distribution system, 2...content distribution company, 3...management server, 4...store, 5...store terminal, 6...LAN, 7...router, 8...Internet, 9...television station, 10...program production department, 11...store terminal distribution department, 12...product, 13...display stand, 14...holding stand, 15...touch panel, 16...main switch, 17...camera, 18...main display section, 19...selection input section, 20...notification display section, 21...store clerk call button, 22...voice recognition button, 23...performer, 24...server control section, 25...server storage device, 26...communication section, 27...real time clock, 28...input section, 29...display section, 30...main control section, 31...schedule reception section, 32...terminal ID receiving section, 33...authentication section, 34...distribution information storage section, 35...schedule storage section, 36...tally information storage section, 37...speaker, 38...microphone, 39...terminal control section, 40...terminal storage device, 4 1...Communication unit, 42...Real-time clock, 43...Start control unit, 44...Stop control unit, 45...Main control unit, 46...Display control unit, 47...Input reception unit, 48...Switching unit, 49...Change unit, 50...Download unit, 51...Download period determination unit, 52...Terminal status transmission unit, 53...Output end determination unit, 54...Deletion unit, 55...Selection count transmission unit, 56...Selection time transmission unit, 57...Face recognition unit, 58...Speech recognition unit, 59...Number of people transmission unit, 60...Terminal ID transmission unit, 61...Content storage unit, 62...Schedule setting unit, 63...Counting unit, 64...Selection time storage unit, 65...Number of viewers storage unit, 66...Viewing time storage unit, 67...Distribution management button, 68...Terminal management button, 69...Content management button, 70...Notification management button, 71...Store management button, 72...User management button, 73...Edit button, 74, 75...Pull-down menu, 80...Internet distribution unit.

Claims (10)

A content distribution system including a terminal that is installed near a product and outputs content, and a server that is accessed from a plurality of the terminals via the Internet,
The terminal includes:
a content storage unit configured to store a plurality of pieces of content corresponding to a plurality of types of information related to the product;
an output unit that outputs one of the plurality of contents;
a touch panel that displays on a screen a selection input section corresponding to a plurality of the contents;
an input receiving unit that receives an input operation by the selection input unit;
a switching unit that switches the content corresponding to the selection input unit to be output by the output unit when an input operation is performed on the selection input unit;
Equipped with
The server,
a schedule receiving unit that receives an input operation for setting a schedule corresponding to the terminal;
a schedule storage unit that stores the set schedule in association with identification information that can individually identify the terminal;
an identification information receiving unit that receives the identification information from the terminal that has accessed via the Internet;
an authentication unit that performs authentication to allow the terminal to acquire a schedule associated with the identification information;
a tally information storage unit that stores tally information received from the terminal;
Equipped with
the tally information storage unit stores a selection frequency information table and a viewer number information table for tallying the tally information;
the selection count information table stores at least one of information included in the tally information, the store in which the terminal is installed, the name of a group to which the terminal belongs, the name of a content corresponding to the terminal, a selection time when an input operation of the selection input unit was performed, and the number of selections corresponding to the content;
The number-of-viewers information table stores at least one of information included in the tabulation information, such as the store where the content is installed, the group name, the content name, the viewing time when the content was viewed, the total number of viewers of the content, the number of male viewers among the total number of viewers, the number of female viewers among the total number of viewers, and the age group of people who viewed the content,
The aggregated information is transmitted from the terminal to the server at regular intervals.
Content delivery system. The terminal includes:
an access unit that accesses the server at regular intervals;
an identification information transmission unit that transmits, to the server, the identification information of the terminal that accesses the server;
a schedule setting unit that acquires a schedule associated with the identification information transmitted to the server from the server and sets the schedule;
Equipped with
The content distribution system according to claim 1 . The terminal includes:
an access unit that accesses the server;
an identification information transmission unit that transmits, to the server, the identification information of the terminal that accesses the server;
a download unit that downloads the content associated with the identification information transmitted to the server from the server and stores the content in the content storage unit;
Equipped with
3. A content distribution system according to claim 1 or 2. The terminal includes:
a download period determination unit that determines whether or not the current time is included in a download planned period that precedes a planned output period during which output of the content is planned;
a download unit that downloads the content from the server and stores the content in the content storage unit when the current time determined by the download period determination unit is included in the scheduled download period;
Equipped with
The content distribution system according to any one of claims 1 to 3. The terminal includes:
an output end determination unit that determines whether the current time is after a scheduled output period during which the content is scheduled to be output;
an erasing unit that erases the content corresponding to the scheduled output period from the content storage unit when the current time determined by the output end determination unit is after the scheduled output period has elapsed;
Equipped with
The content distribution system according to any one of claims 1 to 4. The terminal includes:
a counting unit that counts the number of times the content corresponding to the selection input unit is selected when an input operation of the selection input unit is performed;
a selection count transmission unit configured to transmit to the server information capable of identifying the number of times each of the contents has been selected;
Equipped with
The content distribution system according to any one of claims 1 to 5. The terminal includes:
a selection time storage unit that stores a time when the content corresponding to the selection input unit was selected when the selection input unit is operated;
a selection time transmission unit that transmits to the server information that can identify the time when each of the contents was selected;
Equipped with
The content distribution system according to any one of claims 1 to 6. The terminal includes:
a display control unit that arranges the plurality of selection input units in a predetermined order and displays them on a screen of the touch panel;
a counting unit that counts the number of times the content corresponding to the selection input unit is selected when an input operation of the selection input unit is performed;
a change unit that changes the content corresponding to each of the selection input units based on the number of times the content is selected;
Equipped with
The content distribution system according to any one of claims 1 to 7. the terminal includes a display control unit that displays, on a screen of the touch panel, one main display unit on which an image of the content is displayed and a plurality of the selection input units each having a smaller display area than the main display unit;
The content distribution system according to any one of claims 1 to 8. A method using a content distribution system including a terminal that is installed near a product and outputs content, and a server that is accessed from a plurality of the terminals via the Internet, comprising:
The terminal includes:
storing a plurality of the contents corresponding to a plurality of types of information related to the product;
outputting one of the plurality of contents through an output unit of the terminal;
Displaying a selection input section corresponding to a plurality of the contents on a touch panel screen of the terminal;
Accepting an input operation by the selection input unit;
When an input operation is performed on the selection input unit, the content corresponding to the selection input unit is switched to be output by the output unit;
The server,
Accepting an input operation for setting a schedule corresponding to the terminal;
storing the set schedule in association with identification information that can individually identify the terminals;
receiving the identification information from the terminal that has accessed via the Internet;
performing authentication to allow the terminal to acquire a schedule associated with the identification information;
storing the tally information received from the terminal in a tally information storage unit;
the tally information storage unit stores a selection frequency information table and a viewer number information table for tallying the tally information;
the selection count information table stores at least one of information included in the tally information, the store in which the terminal is installed, the name of a group to which the terminal belongs, the name of a content corresponding to the terminal, a selection time when an input operation of the selection input unit was performed, and the number of selections corresponding to the content;
The number-of-viewers information table stores at least one of information included in the tabulation information, such as the store where the content is installed, the group name, the content name, the viewing time when the content was viewed, the total number of viewers of the content, the number of male viewers among the total number of viewers, the number of female viewers among the total number of viewers, and the age group of people who viewed the content,
The aggregated information is transmitted from the terminal to the server at regular intervals.
Content delivery methods.

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