JP4057032B2 - Program distribution system and program distribution program - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a program distribution system and program distribution program for streaming distribution of program content data.

As a technique for distributing program content data via a network, a file transfer type and a streaming distribution type are known.
The conventional file transfer type distribution technique is a technique in which program content data to be distributed is collectively downloaded from a program distribution system to a client system by file transfer, and the client system starts reproduction after the program content data is completely downloaded. There was a need. This file transfer type program distribution technique may not be practically used because the time required for downloading becomes long when the program content data to be transferred is large-capacity file data.

  Therefore, a streaming distribution type program content data distribution technique has attracted attention. In the streaming distribution type program content data distribution technique, a communication environment conforming to a communication protocol for streaming distribution is realized on the Internet between the streaming server and the client system. The streaming server side continuously transmits the program content data as streaming data, and the client system side receives the streaming data successively. In the client system, after the buffering process of a predetermined number of frame data in the buffer, the program content data can be played back by the playback software. Thereafter, the reception of the program content data from the streaming server and the playback thereof are continued. As described above, even if the program content data has a large capacity for a long time as a whole, the reproduction can be started immediately with only a short buffering waiting time at the start of streaming distribution.

FIG. 15 is a diagram schematically showing the flow of distribution of conventional streaming distribution type program content data.
The transmission control unit 1010 refers to a play list 1040 to be described later, specifies the data of the corresponding part of the program content according to the current time, takes out the data to be distributed to the streaming server 1030 from the storage unit 1020 and delivers it. This is the part that controls streaming delivery.
Program content data stored in the storage unit 1020 is encoded file data compressed into a format suitable for streaming delivery. There are various types of program content, such as captured video images, edited video images, and CG animation.
The streaming server 1030 receives data distributed from the transmission control unit 1010 and distributes it as streaming data. It also has an interface with the network.
The reproduction list 1040 describes the reproduction order of program contents, and can also have time information for reproduction. That is, the program content to be distributed and its scheduled distribution time are described, and can be positioned as a program distribution table such as a so-called TV column.

The flow of distribution of program content data is as follows.
The transmission control unit 1010 refers to the reproduction list 1040 and specifies data of a corresponding part of the file to be distributed at the current time. For example, if it is the end part of the program content data A, the data of the corresponding part of the encoded file A1021A is acquired from the storage unit 1020. The transmission control unit 1010 passes the acquired data of the corresponding part to the streaming server 1030, and the streaming data is distributed from the streaming server 1030 to the client system.
Whenever the time advances, the transmission control unit 1010 refers to the playlist 1040, specifies the data of the corresponding part of the program content to be distributed at the current time, acquires the data from the storage unit 1020, and passes it to the streaming server 1030. .
In this way, the encoded file A, the encoded file B, and the encoded file C are streamed and delivered one after another according to the description of the play list 1040. In the client system, the play list 1040 is like a program distribution list of a TV program. Positioned on.

JP 2001-54090 A

According to the above-described conventional streaming distribution type program distribution system, there is no long waiting time unlike the conventional file transfer type program distribution system, and it is becoming popular as a system that can withstand practical use. A typical application is Internet television broadcasting.
However, in the conventional streaming distribution technology, when program content is streamed on time according to a predetermined program distribution list as in television broadcasting, the continuity of program content distribution cannot be maintained completely, and the client system In the display on the monitor, there is known a phenomenon in which “blackness” and “break” buffering occur not only at the start of distribution of program content but also in the valley between the program content and the program content every time.
First, the reason why buffering occurs at the start of streaming distribution will be described, and then, the reason why “blackness” and “cut” will occur in the valley between the program content and the program content in the conventional streaming distribution technology will be described.

FIG. 16 is a diagram schematically showing the reason why buffering occurs at the start of conventional streaming delivery.
The program distribution system 1000 includes a storage unit 1020, an encoded file 1021 of program content, and a streaming server 1030. The client system 1100 includes a receiving unit 1110 and a buffer 1120. The program distribution system 1000 and the client system 1100 are connected via a network 1200.

  First, a program distribution request is issued from the client system 1100 to the program distribution system 1000 ([1] streaming request in FIG. 16), and the program distribution system 1000 reads out the requested program content data 1021 from the storage unit 1020 to stream the data. As shown in FIG. 16 [2] Start streaming. The client system 1100 performs a buffering process for a predetermined number of frame data using the buffer 1120 immediately after starting to receive the requested program content data 1021 ([3] buffering in FIG. 16). There are several reasons for buffering. Here, the buffering reasons include buffering the fluctuation of the data transfer state and securing the adjustment time of the playback software for new file playback.

  First, the data transfer state is not always uniform and varies slightly depending on the line state. Streaming data is for continuously reproducing and displaying sequentially transmitted data. If the data transfer is delayed or interrupted for a moment, there is a problem that the monitor display of the client 1110 becomes unstable. For this reason, a device is provided to provide a buffer in which a predetermined number of frame data is stored in the buffer before being reproduced and displayed. Since the buffering of the fluctuation buffer of the data transfer state is performed, the display cannot be made immediately and “blackness” or “cut” occurs.

Next, the data format to be reproduced is not always constant, and it is necessary to adjust the parameters of the reproduction software according to the received data. When the header of the received file is read, processing for new file playback is started, and the parameters of the playback software are adjusted using the file information in the header. In particular, in the case of streaming data, it is important to adjust the parameters of the video rate (video bit rate) and audio rate (audio sampling rate) in the playback software. Since the data received during the adjustment time of the playback software is temporarily buffered, “blackness” and “cut” occur.
If buffering of a predetermined amount of data can be performed in the buffer 1120, reproduction is started by predetermined reproduction software ([4] Monitor display start in FIG. 16).

Here, in the conventional streaming distribution technology, there is a problem that a phenomenon in which “blackness” and “cut” due to buffering occur every time in a valley between program contents.
It is not preferable that “blackness” and “breaks” associated with the buffering process occur in the valley between the program content and the program content as described above, and such “blackness” occurs in normal terrestrial and satellite television broadcasting. It is considered one of the weak points of Internet broadcasting because there is no break. In addition, this program and the valley of the program are usually so-called advertising frames that circulate advertising content, and even if it is “black” or “cut” for several seconds, the influence is great.

  The above problem is not due to the recent development of the network environment and the diversification of information transmission entities, but not the environment in which program content is intensively produced in one place. In an environment where program content data is collected on the center system side and the distribution order of the collected program content data is dynamically and flexibly edited and changed on the center system side, the video rate and audio rate between program contents may differ. Many problems are unavoidable.

In view of the above problems, an object of the present invention is to provide a program distribution system that ensures the seamless and continuous viewing of program content in the display of distributed streaming data on a client system.
In particular, it is not an environment where program content is intensively produced in one place, but a variety of program content data created by the local system is collected via a network and the distribution order of the collected program content data is dynamic and flexible. It is an object of the present invention to provide a program distribution system that can be applied in an environment for editing and changing.

  In order to achieve the above object, the first program distribution system of the present invention provides an original file of individual program content data in accordance with a unified rule including an audio rate and a video rate of encoding processing commonly given to all local systems. And at least one local system for uploading the encoded file after the encoding process in accordance with the unified rules to the center system via the network, and a distribution list management for editing and storing the program distribution list A storage unit that receives, manages, and stores each encoded file uploaded from each local system, and data of a corresponding part of the program content data to be distributed in accordance with the program distribution list and the current time Distribution control read from the storage unit A decoding unit that decodes the data passed from the delivery control unit, a re-encoding unit that encodes the data decoded by the decoding unit again according to a unified rule including a unified audio rate and video rate, A center system including a streaming server for streaming distribution of data supplied from the re-encoding unit.

  In order to achieve the above object, the second program distribution system of the present invention provides individual program contents according to a unified rule including an audio rate, an image rate, and a file structure of an encoding process commonly given to all local systems. An encoding unit that encodes the original data file, and at least one local system that uploads the encoded file after the encoding process in accordance with the unified rules to the center system via the network, and edits and stores the program distribution list A distribution list management unit that receives each encoded file uploaded from each local system, analyzes the file structure, excludes headers and footers, and follows each program distribution data body according to the program distribution list Dynamic part only A file editing unit that edits all the files as seamless files and stores them in a storage unit; a distribution control unit that reads out data corresponding to program content data to be distributed in accordance with the program distribution list and the current time; And a center system including a streaming server for streaming distribution of data supplied from the distribution control unit.

In order to achieve the above object, the third program distribution system of the present invention encodes an original file of individual program content data in accordance with individual rules including the audio rate and video rate of encoding processing given to each local system. An encoding unit for processing, at least one local system for uploading an encoded file after encoding processing according to the individual rules to a center system via a network, a distribution list management unit for editing and storing a program distribution list, A storage unit that receives, manages, and stores each encoded file uploaded from each local system; and stores the data of a corresponding portion of the program content data to be distributed in accordance with the program distribution list and the current time A distribution control unit to read from the unit; A decoding unit that decodes the data delivered from the distribution control unit, a re-encoding unit that re-encodes the data decoded by the decoding unit in accordance with a unified protocol including a unified audio rate and video rate, and the re-encoding unit. And a center system including a streaming server for streaming distribution of data supplied from the encoding unit.
With the above configuration, it is possible to ensure seamless and continuous viewing of program content without causing blackness or breaks in the display of the client system between programs, and to dynamically change the content and order of program distribution Therefore, flexible program distribution is possible. Blackness does not occur in the valley of the program content in the client system.

In the above configuration, when the distribution list management unit dynamically edits / changes the program distribution list, it is preferable to be able to respond dynamically. That is, in the first program distribution system configuration and the third program distribution system configuration of the present invention, when the distribution list management unit dynamically edits / changes the program distribution list, the distribution control unit However, it is preferable that the data of the corresponding part of the program content data is read from the storage unit in accordance with the program distribution list related to the editing / change. In the configuration of the second program distribution system of the present invention described above, when the distribution list management unit dynamically edits / changes the program distribution list, the file editing unit distributes the program according to the editing / change. According to the list, only individual program content data main body parts are dynamically arranged and edited as a seamless file, stored in a storage unit, and the distribution control unit determines the corresponding part of the program content data according to the program distribution list related to the editing / change. It is preferable to read data from the storage unit.
With the above configuration, even if the dynamic program distribution list is changed, it can be flexibly dealt with, and further, blackness does not occur in the valleys of the program content related to the change in the client system.

Next, a configuration in which program content data is lent and borrowed between a plurality of program distribution systems existing on the network is also possible. For example, for program content data not in the storage unit, a rental request is dynamically transmitted to another program distribution system on the network that holds the program content data, and the program content data is encoded by file transfer from the program distribution system. A program content rental control unit that borrows the program content data may be provided, and the program content rental control unit may borrow the program content data from another program distribution system on the network and store the program content data in the storage unit.
The program content rental control unit described above eliminates the need for the entity operating each program distribution system to independently produce all the program content to be distributed, and lends and borrows some program content with other entities. Flexible management is possible.

  In the program distribution system having the above-described configuration, the program content rental control unit includes a charging server that manages the rental conditions of the program content data between the program distribution systems and controls charging between the two. A configuration is also possible in which the program distribution system that borrows the program content data is charged according to the rental conditions of the program content data.

Next, in the program distribution system configured as described above, the program distribution list of the distribution list management unit also includes a distribution schedule of advertisement content data, and the dynamic continuous encoding control unit stores the advertisement content data to be distributed in accordance with the current time. It is preferable to continuously supply while dynamically converting to the predetermined encoding rate.
With the above configuration, in the program distribution system with the above configuration, the distribution of advertising content data can be flexibly replaced or replaced, and there is no blackness in the valley between the advertising content and the program content, and smooth display of advertising content is possible It becomes.

  According to the program distribution system of the present invention, seamless and continuous viewing of program content can be ensured, and the contents and order of program distribution can be dynamically and flexibly edited and changed.

  Hereinafter, an embodiment of a program distribution system of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. However, the technical scope of the present invention is not limited to the specific applications, shapes, dimensions, and the like shown in the following embodiments.

The program distribution system of the present invention ensures seamless and continuous viewing of program content without blackening or breaks in the valley between the program content and the program content when the distributed streaming data is displayed on the client system. It is possible to edit and change the contents and order of the contents dynamically and flexibly.
In describing the program distribution system of the present invention, first, [1] the reason why blackness and breaks occur in the reproduction display of the client system in the valley of the program contents in the streaming distribution is first analyzed. Next, [2] the principle of realizing seamless streaming distribution in the reproduction display of the client system of the program distribution system of the present invention will be described. Next, [3] the concept of the program distribution system of the present invention in a network distributed environment using a local system and a center system will be described, and then [4] a configuration example of the program distribution system of the present invention will be described.

[1] Analysis of Reasons for Blackness and Breaks in Reproduction of Program Content In the following, the reason why blackness and breaks are generated in the playback display on the client system in the valley between the program content and the program content is generally analyzed in streaming distribution.
Blackness and breaks in general streaming distribution can be attributed to "buffering for buffering fluctuations in line status" and "buffering for adjusting playback software parameters, etc." The former “buffering of line state fluctuation buffer” is not considered to be the cause. This is because the preceding program content data has already been reproduced, and the frame data of the previous program content data is stored in the buffer at the moment when the subsequent program content data is received. As the playback process of the frame data of the last part of the preceding program content data proceeds successively and continuously, the buffering of the frame data of the beginning part of the subsequent program content data is successively executed. In this case, it is considered that a phenomenon that the playback display is interrupted does not occur.
Therefore, it is considered that the cause of blackness and breaks between the program content and the valley of the program content is “buffering for parameter adjustment of playback software” for the latter new file playback. Here, it is necessary to adjust the playback software for new file playback: (a) when a new header is received; and (b) video rate of preceding program content and subsequent program content. The audio rate may be different.

  With reference to FIG. 1, a phenomenon in which blackness or breaks occur in reproduction by a client system in a valley of general streaming distribution program content will be described.

(A) Buffering process associated with reception of new header For example, assume that the preceding program content A has already been reproduced and displayed (FIG. 1 (a)). Here, it is assumed that the distribution of the preceding program content A is completed and the streaming data of the subsequent program content B is received (FIG. 1B).
Since the header of the streaming data of the subsequent program content B is added, the playback software recognizes that the streaming playback processing of the new program content B starts by receiving the header, and plays the new file. The process is started. If the playback software that is currently popular reads the header of a new file, the previous program content data that is currently in the buffer is discarded in order to secure time for parameter adjustment of the playback software for the new streaming playback processing, A new buffering process for subsequent program content data is started (FIG. 1B). During this buffering process, “blackness” and “cuts” occur.

(B) Buffering processing when the video rate and the audio rate are different between program contents Generally, the video rate and the audio rate of data that is streamed are various. There are variations in video quality and audio quality depending on the production process and purpose, such as video footage, music video clips, animation footage, and computer graphic footage produced during the news gathering process. The client system playback software needs to decode and playback in accordance with the audio rate and video rate. When an encoded file with a different audio rate and video rate is received, the client system playback software supports the new rate. Therefore, it is necessary to adjust the parameters.

  In FIG. 1, for example, it is assumed that the preceding program content A has already been reproduced and displayed at the video rate and audio rate R1 (for example, video rate 180 bps, audio rate 76 bps) (FIG. 1A). Here, it is assumed that the distribution of the preceding program content A is completed and the streaming data of the subsequent program content B is received (FIG. 1B). Assume that the video rate and audio rate of the subsequent program content B are R2 (for example, the video rate is 220 bps and the audio rate is 36 bps). If the audio rate and the video rate are different, it is necessary to adjust the parameters of the playback software. Therefore, if the playback software recognizes the difference between the video rate and the audio rate, The preceding program content data is discarded, and a buffering process for new subsequent program content data is started (FIG. 1B). During this buffering process, “blackness” and “cuts” occur.

[2] Principle of Realizing Seamless Streaming Distribution in Reproduction Display of Client System of Program Distribution System of the Present Invention Next, the principle of realizing seamless streaming distribution in reproduction display of the client system of the program distribution system of the present invention will be described. To do.
In the program distribution system of the present invention, both (a) buffering processing associated with reception of a new header and (b) occurrence of buffering processing when the video rate and audio rate are different between program contents should be eliminated. The header is removed from the streamed file and the video rate and audio rate are made uniform among the program content files.

FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining a reproduction display state in a valley of program content in streaming distribution in the program distribution system of the present invention.
In the program distribution system of the present invention, the program content data to be distributed is processed and edited by the configuration described later, and the header is removed from the program content data to be distributed by streaming as shown in FIG. The rate and audio rate are unified.

Reproduction processing in the valley of the program content is as follows.
For example, assume that the preceding program content A has already been reproduced and displayed (FIG. 2A). Here, it is assumed that the distribution of the preceding program content A is completed and the streaming data of the subsequent program content B is received (FIG. 2B).
Regarding the header / footer, the streaming data of the subsequent program content B seamlessly follows the streaming data of the program content A, and there is no header / footer. Therefore, even if the playback software starts to receive the streaming of the new program content B, the playback software does not recognize the playback of the new program content, and does not adjust the playback software for the new streaming playback processing (FIG. 2B). ). For this reason, the data in the buffer is not discarded, and the display of the last part (A (Z2) to A (Z30)) of the program content A is continuously continued and “black” or “break” due to buffering. Does not occur.

  Next, with regard to the video rate / audio rate, the video rate and audio rate of the preceding program content A are R0 (for example, video rate 200 bps, audio rate 56 bps), and the video rate and audio rate of the subsequent program content B are also Since it is standardized to R0 (for example, video rate 200 bps, audio rate 56 bps), even if streaming of the new program content B starts to be received, it is not recognized that the new program content is being played back, and the playback software remains as it is. From the reproduction display of the program content B to the reproduction display of the program content B, and “blackness” and “break” do not occur. As described above, the program distribution system of the present invention removes headers and footers in the valleys of the program content of the streaming data to be distributed, and unifies the video rate and audio rate between the program contents, thereby providing new buffering. The occurrence is suppressed and the playback display on the client system is performed seamlessly.

[3] Concept of the program distribution system of the present invention in a network distributed environment using a local system and a center system When viewed from an operational aspect, a conventional program content distribution system produces all program contents in a centralized location, There were many so-called center concentration methods for streaming distribution. The program content distribution system of the present invention produces part or all of program content locally in a large number of local systems, collects the produced program content data in a center system via a network, and displays a program distribution table on the center system side. It can be applied to a so-called distributed method of editing and streaming distribution according to the above. In the program distribution system of the present invention, the program content data edited and streamed and distributed in the center system has the data format shown in FIG. 2 of [2] above, and the reproduction software in the client system that has received the distribution of the program content data When the program is played, “blackness” or “break” does not occur in the valley of the program content.

When the program distribution system of the present invention is constructed in a network distributed environment, various variations are possible. Three typical variations are shown below.
The concept of the first program distribution system of the present invention is shown in FIG.
Two devices are added to the first program distribution system of the present invention.
The first contrivance is to devise a uniform rule for encoding in all local systems, and to process the encoded video rate and audio rate of the encoded file in all local systems.
As shown in FIG. 3, the encoding process of each of the local systems 200a and 200b is performed by the unified protocol encoding units 210a and 210b. These have a unified standard for encoding including the video rate and audio rate given in common to all local systems, and all the encoded files produced by the local systems 200a and 200b are the same unified video. Has rate / voice rate.
In the example of FIG. 3, the original file A is processed by the unified contract encoding unit 210a of the local system 200a, so that it is processed into an encoded file A having a rate R0 (video rate 200 bps, audio rate 56 bps). On the other hand, the original file B is also encoded by the unified contract encoding unit 210b of the local system 200b, so that it is processed into an encoded file B having a rate R0 (video rate 200 bps, audio rate 56 bps). Thus, encoded files produced and processed in all local systems in a network distributed environment have a unified video rate and audio rate. By unifying the video rate and the audio rate in this way, there is an advantage that parameter adjustment is unnecessary in the temporary decoding process in the center system described later. Note that since the file is encoded and compressed, the file capacity is reduced and the network is suitable for network transfer from the local system to the center system.

The second idea is that the center system 100 side dynamically decodes the encoded files collected from each local system in accordance with the streaming distribution of the program content data according to the program distribution table, and is dynamically unified. It is a device that re-encodes at the video rate / sound rate and generates streaming data having a unified video rate / sound rate among program contents.
The center system 100 stores the encoded files collected from the local system via the network in the file format. In accordance with the streaming distribution of the program content data according to the program distribution table, the corresponding encoded file is specified, and the decoding unit 21 dynamically and continuously decodes it. The frame data obtained by decoding is dynamically re-encoded sequentially and continuously according to the encoding convention unified by the unified convention re-encoding unit 22. By the second idea of seamlessly re-encoding the data returned to the frame data by the temporary decoding at the unified rate R0, the re-encoded data has the same video rate / audio rate over all program content data. In addition, since it is distributed as streaming data, it is not organized into file units in program content units, and headers and footers are not added. Therefore, the program content data to be streamed is in the data format shown in FIG. 2 of [2] above, and “blackness” and “breaks” due to buffering occur in the valley of the program content during playback in the client system. There is no.

Next, the concept of the second program distribution system of the present invention is shown in FIG.
Two ideas are also added to the second program distribution system of the present invention.
The first idea is that all local systems have a unified standard for encoding, including video rate, audio rate, file structure, etc., and encoded files in all local systems have a unified video rate / audio rate. It is a device to process to have a unified file structure.
As shown in FIG. 4, the encoding process of each of the local systems 201a and 201b is performed by the unified convention encoding units 211a and 211b. These are the video rate, audio rate, file structure, etc. that span all local systems. All encoded files produced by the local systems 201a and 201b have the same unified video rate / audio rate and file structure.
By unifying the video rate and audio rate in this way, it is not necessary to adjust the video rate and audio rate in file editing in the center system described later. Further, by unifying the file structure, the header can be easily removed in the file editing in the center system described later. Note that since the file is encoded and compressed, the file capacity is reduced and the network is suitable for network transfer from the local system to the center system.

The second idea is that the center system 101 analyzes the file structure of each encoded file collected via the network, removes identifiers such as headers and footers, and only the main data portion of video data and audio data. Is extracted, and the program content data is rearranged along the program distribution table to obtain a connected encoded file.
The center system 101 receives encoded files collected from the local system via the network. Since these files are encoded in accordance with the uniform rules, all the files have a uniform file structure. Since the structure is known, it is possible to easily remove the header and footer from the encoded file and extract only the so-called data body portion. Thereafter, the file editing unit 23 identifies encoded files corresponding to the program contents along the program distribution table, arranges them in time series, and manages them as a continuous file. In this way, it can be freely processed and edited such as changing the distribution order.
In streaming distribution, streaming data may be generated and distributed from a continuous file according to the current time and the distribution program guide. The program content data to be distributed in the streaming format has the data format shown in FIG. 2 of [2] above, and when played back by the playback software in the client system that has received the distribution of the program content data, a buffer is provided between the program content and the valley of the program content. There is no “blackness” or “break” due to the ring.

Next, the concept of the third program distribution system of the present invention is shown in FIG.
One device is added to the third program distribution system of the present invention.
In the third program distribution system of the present invention, the local system 202 does not have a unified rule for encoding. Each local system 202 freely encodes based on individual individual rules, and generates an encoded file. Note that since the file is encoded and compressed, the file capacity is reduced and the network is suitable for network transfer from the local system to the center system.
The contrivance of the third program distribution system is that, on the center system 102 side, the encoded files collected from each local system are dynamically temporarily decoded in accordance with the streaming distribution of the program content data along the program distribution table. It is a device that re-encodes at a unified video rate and audio rate to generate streaming data. In addition, since the encoded video file and the audio rate for the temporary decoding are not uniform, a decoding function having a high processing capability capable of responding to various video rates and audio rates is required.

The data flow of the third program distribution system of the present invention is generally as follows.
In the example of FIG. 5, the original file A is processed by the individual contract encoding unit 212a of the local system 202a into an encoded file A having a rate Ra (video rate 180 bps, audio rate 76 bps). On the other hand, the original file B is also encoded by the unified contract encoding unit 212b of the local system 202b, so that it is processed into an encoded file B having a rate Rb (video rate 220 bps, audio rate 36 bps). Each encoded file generated is transferred to the center system 102 side via the network.
The center system 102 stores the encoded files collected from the local system via the network in the file storage unit 11 in the file format. Corresponding to the streaming distribution of the program content data according to the program distribution table according to the current time, the corresponding program content file is specified, and the decoding unit 24 dynamically and continuously decodes it.
Note that the encoded file for decoding has various video rates and audio rates (rate Ra for the encoded file A and rate Rb for the encoded file B), and the decoding unit 24 has various video rates and audio rates. It has a decoding function with a high processing capacity that can respond immediately.

  The frame data obtained by decoding is dynamically re-encoded successively and continuously according to the encoding rule unified by the unified rule re-encoding unit 22. By re-encoding the data returned to the frame data by the temporary decoding seamlessly at a uniform rate R0, the re-encoded data has the same video rate / audio rate over all program content data, and Since the dynamically re-encoded individual frame data is delivered as streaming data as it is, it is not grouped in file units in program content units, so that headers and footers are not added. Therefore, the program content data to be streamed is in the data format shown in FIG. 2 of the above [2], and when it is played back on the client system that has received the program content data, it is buffered between the program content and the valley of the program content. “Blackness” and “cuts” do not occur.

[4] Configuration Example of Program Distribution System of the Present Invention Next, a configuration example of the program distribution system of the present invention is shown as an embodiment.
(Embodiment 1)
1 shows an example of a program distribution system of the present invention according to a first embodiment.
The program distribution system according to the first embodiment is a system configuration example to which the concept of the first program distribution system of the present invention is applied.
FIG. 6 is a diagram schematically showing the configuration of the program distribution system according to the first embodiment of the present invention. The configuration satisfies the concept of the first program distribution system of the present invention shown in FIG. The program distribution system according to the first embodiment of the present invention includes a center system 100, at least one local system 200, and at least one client system 300.

  The local system 200 includes a unified rule encoding unit 210 that encodes an original file of individual program content data in accordance with a unified rule of encoding processing commonly given to all local systems. The unified rules include the audio rate and video rate during the encoding process. Upload the encoded file after the encoding process according to the uniform rules to the center system via the network. In addition, since it is encoded and compressed, the file capacity is reduced and it is in a form suitable for network transfer.

The center system 100 includes the following components.
The distribution list management unit 50 is a part that edits, manages, and stores the program distribution list 51. The program distribution list 51 describes the distribution time of each program content. It is positioned as a so-called TV program column. It is preferable that the program distribution list 51 can be dynamically rewritten.
The file storage unit 10 receives, manages, and stores encoded files of individual program content data uploaded from individual local systems 200, and is, for example, a large-capacity hard disk device. Each encoded file has various types such as a captured video image, an edited video image, and a CG animation.
The distribution control unit 30 is a part that refers to the program distribution list 51, identifies the corresponding part of the program content data to be distributed in accordance with the program distribution list 51 and the current time, and reads out the data from the file storage unit 10. As the current time advances, the distribution control unit 30 sequentially and sequentially reads out the corresponding data.
The decoding unit 21 is a part that temporarily decodes data sequentially and continuously delivered from the distribution control unit 30. The data is decoded into video format frame data.
The unified contract re-encoding unit 22 is a part for re-encoding the video format frame data decoded by the decoding unit 21 according to the unified contract. Note that the video rate and audio rate for re-encoding are included as a unified rule, and are defined as a rate R0 (video rate 200 bps, audio rate 56 bps), for example.
The streaming server 40 is a part that transmits streaming data and includes a network interface.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing a flow of processing centering on processing in the center system of the program distribution system according to the first embodiment.
As a premise, it is assumed that the encoding processing step in the local system, the distribution processing step to the center system, and the distribution management processing step of editing and storing the program distribution list to the distribution management unit in the center system are completed.
First, the encoded file is uploaded from the local system 200 and stored in the file storage unit 10 (step S1). The program content data is compressed and encoded file data, and is all encoded at a rate R0 (for example, a video rate of 200 bps and an audio rate of 56 bps).
The distribution control unit 30 refers to the program distribution list 51 and acquires the corresponding data portion from the file storage unit 11 among the encoded files of the program content to be distributed by streaming according to the current time. (Step S2).
The decoding unit 21 performs a temporary decoding process on the data acquired from the file storage unit 11 (step S3). As a result of decoding the encoded file, it becomes video format frame data.
The unified contract re-encoding unit 22 performs re-encoding processing at the unified video rate and audio rate (step S4).
The streaming server 40 receives the re-encoded data from the unified contract re-encoding unit 22 and distributes the program content data to the client system 300 (step S5). Data to be distributed in accordance with the current time continues to be distributed as seamless streaming data from the streaming server 40 to the client system 300.
The above process is repeated whenever the time advances (return to step S2).
The above is an outline of the flow of streaming data distribution.

In the reproduction display of the client system 300, “blackness” and “cut” do not occur in the valleys between program contents.
FIG. 8 is a diagram schematically showing streaming distribution and reproduction processing on the client computer in the first program distribution system of the present invention.
Subsequent to the streaming distribution process for the final part of the program content A (FIG. 8A), the streaming distribution process for the beginning part of the program content B is performed (FIG. 8B). Here, since there is no header or footer in the valley between the end portion of the program content A and the beginning portion of the program content B and the rate is R0 of the same unified rule, it is distributed as seamless continuous data from the streaming server 30. In the client system 300, the end portion of the program content A and the beginning portion of the program content B are supplied as completely seamless continuous data, so that the playback processing by the playback software is also performed seamlessly, and continuous video is displayed on the monitor. Is displayed. That is, there is no “blackness” or “break” in the valley between the program content A and the program content B, the program content having a predetermined content is displayed at a predetermined time, and the display environment is as if watching a TV program. Obtained (FIG. 8 (b) monitor display).

(Embodiment 2)
The example of the program delivery system of this invention concerning Embodiment 2 is shown.
The program distribution system according to the second embodiment is a system configuration example to which the concept of the second program distribution system of the present invention is applied.
FIG. 9 is a diagram schematically showing a configuration of a program distribution system according to the second embodiment of the present invention. The configuration satisfies the concept of the second program distribution system of the present invention shown in FIG. The program distribution system according to the second embodiment of the present invention also includes a center system 101, at least one local system 201, and at least one client system 300.
The local system 201 includes a unified rule encoding unit 211 that encodes an original file of individual program content data in accordance with a unified rule concerning encoding processing that is commonly given to all local systems. The unified rules include audio rate, video rate, and file structure. The encoded file after the encoding process is uploaded to the center system via the network. In addition, since it is encoded and compressed, the file capacity is reduced and it is in a form suitable for network transfer.

The center system 101 includes the following components.
The distribution list management unit 50 and the program distribution list 51 may be the same as those in the first embodiment shown in FIG. 6, and it is preferable that the program distribution list 51 can be dynamically rewritten.
As shown in FIG. 4, the file editing unit 23 is a part that dynamically arranges only the program content data main body part of the encoded file, edits it as a seamless file, and stores it in the editing file storage unit 11. As shown in FIG. 4, the file editing unit 23 receives individual encoded files uploaded from the local system 201, analyzes the file structure, and excludes headers and footers. Since the file structure is included as a unified rule of the unified rule encoding unit 211, the encoded file that is encoded and uploaded in the local system 201 has a unified file structure. It is possible to easily exclude headers and footers by analyzing individual encoded files based on.
The distribution control unit 30 is a part that refers to the program distribution list 51, identifies the corresponding part of the program content data to be distributed in accordance with the program distribution list 51 and the current time, and reads it from the edit file storage unit 11. As the current time advances, the distribution control unit 30 sequentially and sequentially reads out the corresponding data.
The streaming server 40 is a part that transmits streaming data and includes a network interface.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the flow of processing centered on the center system of the program distribution system according to the second embodiment.
As a premise, the encoding processing step in the local system 201, the distribution processing step to the center system 101, and the distribution management processing step of editing and storing the program distribution list to the distribution management unit 30 in the center system 101 are completed. To do.
Upon receiving the encoded file upload from the local system 201, the encoded file structure is analyzed, the header and footer are removed, and the main body data portion of the program content is arranged in time series in accordance with the program distribution list to form a continuous file (step S1). ).
The program content data is encoded file data compressed into a format suitable for streaming delivery, and has a header and footer and a unified format at a rate R0 (for example, a video rate of 200 bps and an audio rate of 56 bps).
The distribution control unit 30 refers to the program distribution list 51 and acquires the corresponding data portion from the file storage unit 11 among the encoded files of the program content to be distributed by streaming according to the current time. (Step S2).
The streaming server 40 receives the distribution data from the edit file storage unit 11 and distributes the program content data to the client system 300 (step S3). Data to be distributed in accordance with the current time continues to be distributed as seamless streaming data from the streaming server 40 to the client system 300.
The above process is repeated whenever the time advances (return to step S2).
The above is an outline of the flow of streaming data distribution.

  Also in the configuration example of the program distribution system of the second embodiment, streaming distribution and reproduction processing in the client system 300 are the same as those in FIG. 8, and “blackness” and “intervals” occur in the valleys between program contents in the reproduction display of the client system 300. Will not occur.

(Embodiment 3)
The program distribution system according to the third embodiment is a system configuration example to which the concept of the third program distribution system of the present invention is applied.
FIG. 11 is a diagram schematically showing a configuration of a program distribution system according to the third embodiment of the present invention. The configuration satisfies the concept of the third program distribution system of the present invention shown in FIG. The program distribution system according to the third embodiment of the present invention also includes a center system 102, at least one local system 202, and at least one client system 300.
The local system 202 includes an individual rule encoding unit 212 that encodes an original file of individual program content data in accordance with individual rules that the local system 202 has individually. The encoded file after the encoding process according to the individual rules is uploaded to the center system via the network. The video rate and audio rate of the program content file are not necessarily unified, and there can be various rates. In addition, since it is encoded and compressed, the file capacity is reduced and it is in a form suitable for network transfer.

The center system 102 includes the following components.
The distribution list management unit 50 and the program distribution list 51 may be the same as those in the first embodiment shown in FIG. 6, and it is preferable that the program distribution list 51 can be dynamically rewritten.
The file storage unit 11 and the distribution control unit 30 may be the same as those in the first embodiment.
The decoding unit 24 is a part that temporarily decodes data sequentially and continuously delivered from the distribution control unit 30. In the third embodiment, since the video rate and the audio rate of the program content file are various, the decoding unit 24 has a high-functional decoding function that decodes files of various rates at high speed. As a result of decoding, frame data in video format is obtained.
Similar to the first embodiment, the unified contract re-encoding unit 22 is a part that re-encodes the video format frame data decoded by the decoding unit 21 according to the unified contract. Note that a video rate and an audio rate for re-encoding are included as a unified rule, and are defined as a rate R0 (video rate 200 bps, audio rate 56 bps), for example.
The streaming server 40 is a part that transmits streaming data and includes a network interface.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing a flow of streaming data distribution in the program distribution system according to the third embodiment.
As a premise, the encoding processing step in the local system 202, the distribution processing step to the center system 102, and the distribution management processing step of editing and storing the program distribution list to the distribution management unit 30 in the center system 102 are completed. To do.
The encoded file is uploaded from the local system 202 and stored in the file storage unit 10 (step S1). The program content data is compressed and encoded file data, but the video rate and audio rate are not necessarily unified.
The distribution control unit 30 refers to the program distribution list 51 and acquires the corresponding data portion from the file storage unit 11 among the encoded files of the program content to be distributed by streaming according to the current time. (Step S2).
The decoding unit 21 performs a decoding process on the data acquired from the file storage unit 11 (step S3). As a result of decoding the encoded file, the difference between the video rate and the audio rate is eliminated, and the video frame data is obtained.
The unified contract re-encoding unit 22 performs re-encoding processing at the unified video rate and audio rate (step S4).
The streaming server 40 receives the re-encoded data from the unified contract re-encoding unit 22 and distributes the program content data to the client system 300 (step S5). Data to be distributed in accordance with the current time continues to be distributed as seamless streaming data from the streaming server 40 to the client system 300.
The above process is repeated whenever the time advances (return to step S2).
The above is an outline of the flow of streaming data distribution.

  Also in the configuration example of the program distribution system according to the third embodiment, the streaming distribution and the reproduction processing in the client system 300 are the same as those in FIG. 8, and “blackness” and “break” are generated in the valley between the program contents in the reproduction display. There is no.

(Embodiment 4)
Next, an example of the program distribution system of the present invention according to the fourth embodiment is shown. The program distribution system according to the fourth embodiment includes a program content rental control unit that lends and borrows program content among a plurality of program distribution systems on a network.
With the recent development of image processing technology and communication technology, an environment in which an Internet broadcasting station can be operated even if it is a small subject is being prepared. Although technical problems are being alleviated, the problem of production and procurement of broadcast program content is large. If it is a small operating entity, it is difficult to independently produce program content that covers the normal broadcast hours. Therefore, a great advantage can be obtained if the program content can be lent and borrowed with other program distribution systems via a network.

The configuration including the program content rental control unit can be applied to any of the first program distribution system of the present invention, the second program distribution system of the present invention, and the third program distribution system of the present invention. However, here, a typical example applied to the first program distribution system of the present invention will be shown.
FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a program distribution system 103 according to the fourth embodiment. The configuration example of the program distribution system 103 in FIG. 13 is an example in which a program content rental control unit 60 is added to the configuration example of the first program distribution system of the present invention shown in FIG.
The program content rental control unit 60 dynamically transmits a rental request with respect to program content data not in the file storage unit 11 to other program distribution systems on the network that holds the program content data. This is a part that controls the lending and borrowing of program content data encoded by file transfer.
Other components may be the same as those in the first embodiment.

The flow of program content rental processing is as follows.
[1] Notification of necessity of program content rental For example, it is assumed that the program distribution list 51 describes that the program content D is distributed from 12:00.
The program content rental control unit 60 controls preparation processing for recent program distribution. Specifically, a predetermined time margin, for example, a time margin of 6 hours or the like is set, and it is checked whether or not program content to be distributed after 6 hours exists in the file storage unit 11. Here, for example, in the program distribution list 51, it is detected that the program content D is scheduled to be distributed six hours after the current time, and an encoded file D corresponding to the program content D exists in the storage unit 20. It is checked whether or not
If the encoded file corresponding to the program content D to be distributed after 6 hours exists in the file storage unit 11, there is no problem, and the data to be distributed in accordance with the current time is determined according to the processing procedure described in the first embodiment. Streaming is delivered to the client system via the streaming server 30.
However, when the encoded file D corresponding to the program content D does not exist in the file storage unit 11, the program content rental control unit 60 detects that the program content D needs to be rented.

[2] Program Content Inquiry and Rental Application The program content rental control unit 60 inquires of other program distribution systems on the network whether the program content D (encoded file D) is held. Of the program distribution systems on the network, the program distribution system that holds the program content D returns an answer indicating that the program content D is held. The program content rental control unit 60 transmits a rental application for the program content D and requests file transfer of the encoded file D of the program content D.

[3] Receiving Encoded File of Program Content The program content rental control unit 60 receives file transfer of the encoded file D of the program content D via the network.

[4] Storage of Encoded File of Program Content in Storage Unit The program content rental control unit 60 receives the file transfer of the encoded file D of the requested program content D and stores it in the file storage unit 11.
In this way, through the lending and borrowing of the program content data, the acquisition of the encoded files of all the program content described in the program distribution list 51 within a predetermined margin time, for example, within 6 hours from the current time is completed.
If it is time for streaming distribution of the program content D after 6 hours have elapsed from the current time, data to be distributed in accordance with the current time is transmitted to the client system via the streaming server 30 according to the processing procedure described in the first embodiment. Streaming.

Next, in general, it is necessary to adjust interests between program distribution systems that lend and borrow program content. Therefore, a configuration in which a billing server 70 is provided to control billing between the two is also possible.
FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example in which a billing server 70 is provided in the configuration of the program distribution system according to the fourth embodiment.
The program distribution system 103a includes a billing server 70.
The billing server 70 is a part that manages the program content rental conditions between the program distribution systems by the program content rental control unit 60 and controls the billing between the two. The rental conditions for the program content are not particularly limited. For example, the rental conditions are determined for each program content. For example, “300,000 yen per delivery for 2 hours of program content D”. In this configuration example, the billing server 70 includes a rental condition storage unit 72 that manages and stores rental conditions for each program content.
The billing server 70 charges the program distribution system that borrows the program content according to the program content rental conditions, and collects a charge on behalf of the program distribution system that lents the program content. In this configuration example, the billing server 70 is provided with a bill file storage unit, and manages and stores a charge lending record between program distribution systems. For example, a loan between program distribution systems is settled every predetermined period. Financial settlement may be performed electronically on the network in accordance with the so-called electronic commerce protocol, and the bill is sent to the debit as a payment invoice, and the credit is transferred to the credit institution at the financial institution. Also good.

The above configuration example is a configuration example provided with the program content rental control unit 60 with respect to the configuration example of the first program distribution system of the present invention shown in FIG. 6, but is shown in FIG. A configuration example provided with a program content rental control unit 60 is also possible for the configuration example of the second program distribution system of the present invention and the configuration example of the third program distribution system of the present invention shown in FIG.
When applied to the configuration example of the second program distribution system of the present invention shown in FIG. 9, the program content control unit 60 stores the rented program content file in the file editing unit 23 instead of the file storage unit 11. The file editing unit 23 executes processing such as file structure analysis, header / footer removal, and program content rearrangement according to the program distribution list according to the procedure shown in the second embodiment.
When applied to the configuration example of the third program distribution system of the present invention shown in FIG. 11, the program content control unit 60 may be the same as the application to the configuration example of the first program distribution system.

  Although the preferred embodiment of the program distribution system of the present invention has been illustrated and described above, it will be understood that various modifications can be made without departing from the technical scope of the present invention.

  The present invention can be applied to a program distribution system. In particular, the present invention can be applied to Internet broadcasting using the Internet.

The figure explaining the reason for the occurrence of blackness in the valley of the program content when the header is present and the rate is different The figure explaining the reproduction | regeneration display state in the valley of the program content in the streaming delivery in the program delivery system of this invention The figure explaining the concept of the 1st program delivery system of this invention The figure explaining the concept of the 2nd program delivery system of this invention The figure explaining the concept of the 3rd program delivery system of this invention The figure which showed typically the structure of the program delivery system concerning Embodiment 1 of this invention. 1 is a flowchart showing a flow of processing centered on a center system of a program distribution system according to a first embodiment; The figure which shows typically streaming delivery and the reproduction | regeneration processing in a client computer in the 1st program delivery system of this invention The figure which showed typically the structure of the program delivery system concerning Embodiment 2 of this invention. 10 is a flowchart showing a flow of processing centered on a center system of a program distribution system according to a second embodiment. The figure which showed typically the structure of the program delivery system concerning Embodiment 3 of this invention. 10 is a flowchart showing a flow of processing centered on a center system of a program distribution system according to a third embodiment. The figure which shows the structure of the program delivery system 103 concerning Embodiment 4. FIG. The figure which shows the example which provided the accounting server 70 in the structure of the program delivery system concerning Embodiment 4. FIG. A diagram schematically showing the flow of distribution of conventional streaming distribution type program content data The figure which shows the reason why buffering occurs in the conventional streaming distribution technology

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 File memory | storage part 11 Edit file memory | storage part 21, 24 Decoding part 22, 25 Unified rule re-encoding part 23 File editing part 30 Distribution control part 40 Streaming server 50 Distribution list management part 51 Program distribution list 60 Program content rental control part 70 Charge Server 80 Advertising sales control unit 100, 101, 102 Center system 200, 201, 202 Local system 210, 211 Unified contract encoding unit 212 Individual contract encoding unit 300 Client system 310 Playback software

Claims (13)

An encoding unit that encodes an original file of individual program content data in accordance with a unified rule including an audio rate and a video rate of an encoding process commonly given to all local systems, and after the encoding process according to the unified rule At least one local system that uploads an encoded file of
A distribution list management unit for editing and storing a program distribution list;
A storage unit for receiving, managing, and storing individual encoded files uploaded from individual local systems;
A distribution control unit that reads data from a corresponding part of the program content data to be distributed in accordance with the program distribution list and the current time;
A decoding unit that decodes the data passed from the distribution control unit;
A re-encoding unit that re-encodes the data decoded by the decoding unit according to a unified protocol including a unified audio rate and video rate;
A program delivery system comprising: a center system comprising a streaming server for streaming delivery of data supplied from the re-encoding unit.   When the distribution list management unit dynamically edits / changes the program distribution list, the distribution control unit reads out data corresponding to program content data from the storage unit in accordance with the program distribution list related to the editing / change. Item 2. The program distribution system according to Item 1. An encoding unit that encodes an original file of each program content data in accordance with individual rules including an audio rate and a video rate of encoding processing uniquely assigned to each local system; At least one local system for uploading the encoded file to the center system via the network;
A distribution list management unit for editing and storing a program distribution list;
A storage unit for receiving, managing, and storing individual encoded files uploaded from individual local systems;
A distribution control unit that reads data from a corresponding part of the program content data to be distributed in accordance with the program distribution list and the current time;
A decoding unit that decodes the data passed from the distribution control unit;
A re-encoding unit that re-encodes the data decoded by the decoding unit according to a unified protocol including a unified audio rate and video rate;
A program delivery system comprising: a center system comprising a streaming server for streaming delivery of data supplied from the re-encoding unit.   When the distribution list management unit dynamically edits / changes the program distribution list, the distribution control unit reads out data corresponding to program content data from the storage unit in accordance with the program distribution list related to the editing / change. Item 4. The program distribution system according to Item 3.   For program content data not in the storage unit, a rental request is dynamically transmitted to another program distribution system on the network that holds the program content data, and the program is encoded by file transfer from the program distribution system 5. A program content rental control unit for borrowing content data, wherein the program content rental control unit borrows the program content data from another program distribution system on a network and stores it in the storage unit. The program distribution system described.   The program content rental control unit includes a charging server that manages the rental conditions of the program content data between the program distribution systems and controls charging between the two, and the charging server is a program distribution system that borrows the program content data. 6. The program distribution system according to claim 5, wherein billing is performed according to rental conditions of program content data.   The program distribution list of the distribution list management unit includes a distribution schedule of advertising content data, and the dynamic continuous encoding control unit dynamically converts the advertising content data to be distributed in accordance with the current time to the predetermined encoding rate. The program distribution system according to any one of claims 1 to 6, which is continuously supplied. A program distribution center system connected via a network to a local system that encodes an original file of each program content data in accordance with a given encoding processing rule and uploads each encoded file after the encoding processing Because
A distribution list management unit for editing and storing a program distribution list;
A storage unit which receives the uploaded individual encoded already file from each of the local system, manages and stores,
A distribution control unit that reads data from a corresponding part of the program content data to be distributed in accordance with the program distribution list and the current time;
A decoding unit that decodes the data passed from the distribution control unit;
A re-encoding unit that re-encodes the data decoded by the decoding unit according to a unified protocol including a unified audio rate and video rate;
A program distribution center system comprising: a streaming server for streaming distribution of data supplied from the re-encoding unit.   For program content data not in the storage unit, a rental request is dynamically transmitted to another program distribution system on the network that holds the program content data, and the program is encoded by file transfer from the program distribution system 9. The program distribution center according to claim 8, further comprising a program content rental control unit for borrowing content data, wherein the program content rental control unit borrows the program content data from another program distribution system on a network and stores it in the storage unit. system.   The program content rental control unit includes a charging server that manages the rental conditions of the program content data between the program distribution systems and controls charging between the two, and the charging server is a program distribution system that borrows the program content data. The program distribution center system according to claim 9, wherein billing is performed according to rental conditions of program content data.   The program distribution list of the distribution list management unit includes a distribution schedule of advertising content data, and the dynamic continuous encoding control unit dynamically converts the advertising content data to be distributed in accordance with the current time to the predetermined encoding rate. 11. The program distribution center system according to claim 8, which is continuously supplied. A program distribution program executed by a program distribution system in which a local system and a program distribution center system are connected via a network,
In the computer of the local system,
An encoding process procedure for encoding an original file of individual program content data in accordance with a unified rule including the audio rate and video rate of the encoding process commonly given to all local systems, and after the encoding process in accordance with the unified rule A local system program for executing a processing procedure of uploading the encoded file of the file to the center system program via the network;
In the computer of the center system,
A distribution management processing procedure for editing and storing a program distribution list;
Receive individual said encoded pre file uploaded from each of the local system program, and a storage procedure for managing and storing in the storage unit,
A distribution control processing procedure for reading out data of a corresponding part of program content data to be distributed in accordance with the program distribution list and the current time;
A decoding process procedure for decoding the data passed from the delivery control process procedure ;
A re-encoding processing procedure for re-encoding the data decoded by the decoding processing procedure according to a unified protocol including a unified audio rate and video rate;
Streaming the data supplied from the re-encoding processing procedure causes the program distribution list and a streaming server processing procedure to execute the streaming distribution of the program content data to the local system in accordance with the current time . A program distribution program comprising a center system program for A program distribution program executed by a program distribution system in which a local system and a program distribution center system are connected via a network,
In the computer of the local system,
An encoding process procedure for encoding an original file of each program content data according to an individual rule including an audio rate and a video rate of an encoding process uniquely given to each local system, and an encoding process after the encoding process according to the individual rule A local system program for executing the processing procedure of uploading the encoded file to the center system program via the network;
In the computer of the center system,
A distribution management processing procedure for editing and storing a program distribution list;
Receive individual said encoded pre file uploaded from each of the local system program, a storage processing procedure for managing and storing in the storage unit,
A distribution control processing procedure for reading out data of a corresponding part of program content data to be distributed in accordance with the program distribution list and the current time;
A decoding processing procedure for decoding the data passed from the delivery control processing step;
A re-encoding processing procedure for re-encoding the data decoded by the decoding processing procedure according to a unified protocol including a unified audio rate and video rate;
Streaming the data supplied from the re-encoding processing procedure causes the program distribution list and a streaming server processing procedure to execute the streaming distribution of the program content data to the local system in accordance with the current time . A program distribution program comprising a center system program for

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