JP7587609B2 - COMPUTER SYSTEM FOR PROVIDING PERSONALIZED VIDEOS, INFORMATION PROCESSING DEVICE CONTAINED IN SUCH COMPUTER SYSTEM, PROGRAM EXECUTED IN SUCH INFORMATION PROCESSING DEVICE, AND PROGRAM EXECUTED IN USER DEVICE CONTAINED IN SUCH COMPUTER SYSTEM - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a computer system for providing personalized video, an information processing device included in the computer system, a program executed on the information processing device, and a program executed on a user device included in the computer system.

In recent years, video advertising has become popular as a marketing tool on the Internet. In particular, video promotion using so-called personalized video advertising has been carried out, in which original videos are generated and distributed for each viewer (customer) using user information such as personal information and attribute information already held by the company. By utilizing such personalized videos, it is possible to distribute videos that are tailored to the viewer's attributes and behavioral characteristics while increasing the viewer's interest.

Technologies used for video distribution over the Internet as described above include HTML5 Video, which uses a video player embedded in a web page using a web browser to play video files.

One technology for generating personalized video files is disclosed in Patent Document 1. Patent Document 1 shows a method in which user information is imported from a database server into a video generation server, a video file is generated on the video generation server using the user information, and the personalized video is distributed from a distribution server. Specifically, the video generation server synthesizes images with user information embedded into each frame of the video, encodes each image into a video file, and uploads the generated video file to a distribution server for video distribution.

Patent No. 6147776

In recent years, with the advancement of IT (Information Technology), the use of personal information has expanded significantly, making the protection of personal information even more important. For this reason, when providing personalized video services to a large number of viewers that use user information that is more closely related to each individual, how to avoid the risk of leaking large amounts of personal information has become an issue.

In the method described in Patent Document 1 above, a series of video generation processes are performed on a video generation server, and a large amount of user information is imported into the video generation server. However, the user information provider and the video generation and distribution service provider are generally different companies, and disclosing important personal information contained in the user information, such as name, email address, telephone number, account number, credit card number, and asset information, to a third party, external video generation and distribution service provider, is a major problem in terms of personal information protection and security risks. For this reason, it is difficult to provide a personalized video service using an external system.

In addition, encoding a video file generally requires a long processing time, the size of the video file is generally quite large (e.g., tens of MB), and uploading to the distribution server also requires a long time. For this reason, in the case of a method in which a video file is generated when the video is viewed, the viewer is forced to wait a long time before being able to view the video. In addition, since the server's processing is occupied in generating one person's video, parallel processing is required using multiple high-performance video generation servers in order to handle simultaneous access by multiple viewers. In this case, as the number of viewers increases, the number of video generation servers must be increased, which increases the cost of the server.

For this reason, it is possible to generate video files in advance for all viewers, but as the number of videos to be generated increases, it will take a long time to complete the generation of all videos. Also, if there is an error or change in the data used to generate the videos, it will take even more time to regenerate the videos, making it difficult to flexibly respond to corrections and changes.

As described above, conventional methods for delivering personalized videos have issues such as the risk of user information being leaked and the time and cost required to generate the videos.

One of the objectives of the present invention is to provide a computer system that can solve both the problem of the risk of user information being leaked and the problem of the time and cost required to generate videos.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a computer system capable of providing new personalized videos.

In one aspect of the present invention, the computer system of the present invention is a computer system for providing personalized videos, the computer system includes a user device used by a user, a first information processing device, and a second information processing device, the first information processing device and the second information processing device being separate devices, the user device being communicatively connected to the first information processing device and the second information processing device, the first information processing device providing user information indicating personal information of the user to the user device, the second information processing device providing one or more base videos to the user device, and the user device generating and playing personalized videos for the user based on the user information provided from the first information processing device and the one or more base videos provided from the second information processing device.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the one or more base videos are a plurality of base videos, the user device generates playback scenario information indicating a playback scenario of the plurality of base videos based at least on the user information, the playback scenario information includes video identification information for identifying the plurality of base videos, the video identification information does not include personal information of the user, the user device provides the video identification information to the second information processing device, the second information processing device identifies the plurality of base videos based on the video identification information and provides the identified plurality of base videos to the user device, and the user device may generate and play the personalized video based on the plurality of base videos provided from the second information processing device in accordance with the playback scenario information.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the playback scenario information may further include playback order specification information for specifying a playback order of the plurality of base videos, and the user device may generate and play the personalized video based on the plurality of base videos provided by the second information processing device in a playback order specified by the playback order specification information in accordance with the playback scenario information.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the playback scenario information may further include attribute setting information for setting attributes of the user information, and the user device may generate and play the personalized video based on the multiple base videos provided by the second information processing device in accordance with the playback scenario information so as to reflect the attributes set by the attribute setting information.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the first information processing device may provide the user device with playback scenario generation information identification information for identifying playback scenario generation information for generating the playback scenario information, the user device may transfer the playback scenario generation information identification information provided by the first information processing device to the second information processing device, the second information processing device may identify the playback scenario generation information based on the playback scenario generation information identification information and provide the identified playback scenario generation information to the user device, and the user device may generate the playback scenario information based on the user information and the playback scenario generation information.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the first information processing device provides the user device with video identification information for identifying one or more base videos that form the basis of the personalized video, the video identification information does not include personal information of the user, the user device transfers the video identification information provided from the first information processing device to the second information processing device, the second information processing device identifies the one or more base videos based on the video identification information, and provides the identified one or more base videos to the user device.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the computer system may further include a real-time information providing device communicatively connected to the user device, the real-time information providing device providing real-time information to the user device, and the user device generating and playing the personalized video based on the user information, the real-time information, and the one or more base videos.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the first information processing device may provide the user device with real-time information identification information for identifying the real-time information, and the user device may request real-time information from the real-time information providing device based on the real-time information identification information, thereby causing the real-time information providing device to provide the real-time information to the user device.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the first information processing device may provide the user information to the user device only if user authentication is successful.

In one aspect of the present invention, the information processing device of the present invention is an information processing device included in a computer system for providing personalized videos, the computer system further includes a user device used by a user and an information processing device separate from the information processing device, the information processing device and the separate information processing device are communicatively connected to the user device, the information processing device provides user information indicating personal information of the user to the user device, and the user information provided to the user device is used to generate and play the personalized videos of the user together with one or more base videos provided to the user device from the separate information processing device.

In one aspect of the present invention, the program of the present invention is a program executed in an information processing device included in a computer system for providing personalized videos, the computer system further includes a user device used by a user and an information processing device separate from the information processing device, the information processing device and the separate information processing device are communicatively connected to the user device, the information processing device includes a processor unit, and the program, when executed by the processor unit, causes the processor unit to at least execute providing user information indicating personal information of the user to the user device, and the user information provided to the user device is used to generate and play the personalized videos of the user together with one or more base videos provided to the user device from the separate information processing device.

In one aspect of the present invention, the program of the present invention is a program executed in a user device included in a computer system for providing personalized videos, the computer system further includes a first information processing device and a second information processing device, the first information processing device and the second information processing device are separate devices, the user device is communicatively connected to the first information processing device and the second information processing device, the user device includes a processor unit, and the program, when executed by the processor unit, causes the processor unit to at least execute generation and playback of personalized videos for the user based on user information indicating personal information of the user provided from the first information processing device and one or more base videos provided from the second information processing device.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the one or more base videos are a plurality of base videos, and the program causes the processor unit to further execute the following: generating playback scenario information indicating a playback scenario of the plurality of base videos based at least on the user information, the playback scenario information including video identification information for identifying the plurality of base videos, the video identification information including no personal information of the user; providing the video identification information to the second information processing device, the second information processing device identifying the plurality of base videos based on the video identification information; and receiving the identified plurality of base videos from the second information processing device; and the generation and playback of the personalized video may be executed based on the plurality of base videos received from the second information processing device in accordance with the playback scenario information.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the playback scenario information may further include playback order specification information for specifying a playback order of the plurality of base videos, and the generation and playback of the personalized video may be performed based on the plurality of base videos received from the second information processing device in a playback order specified by the playback order specification information in accordance with the playback scenario information.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the playback scenario information may further include attribute setting information for setting attributes of the plurality of base videos, and the generation and playback of the personalized video may be performed based on the plurality of base videos received from the second information processing device in accordance with the playback scenario information so as to reflect the attributes set by the attribute setting information.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the program may cause the processor unit to further execute the following: receiving playback scenario generation information identification information from the first information processing device for identifying playback scenario generation information for generating the playback scenario information; transferring the playback scenario generation information identification information to the second information processing device, the second information processing device identifying the playback scenario generation information based on the playback scenario generation information identification information; receiving the playback scenario generation information from the second information processing device; and generating the playback scenario information based on the user information and the playback scenario generation information.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the program may cause the processor to further execute the following: receiving from the first information processing device video identification information for identifying one or more base videos that are the basis of the personalized video, the video identification information not including personal information of the user; transferring the video identification information to the second information processing device, the second information processing device identifying the one or more base videos based on the video identification information; and receiving the identified one or more base videos from the second information processing device.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the computer system may further include a real-time information providing device communicatively connected to the user device, and the program may further cause the processor to receive real-time information from the real-time information providing device, and generate and play the personalized video based on the user information, the real-time information, and the one or more base videos.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the program may cause the processor unit to further execute the following: receiving real-time information identification information for identifying the real-time information from the first information processing device; and receiving the real-time information from the real-time information providing device by requesting real-time information from the real-time information providing device based on the real-time information identification information.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the program may cause the processor unit to further execute the following: transmitting login information to the first information processing device, and the first information processing device determines whether or not user authentication has been successful based on the login information, and transmitting the user information to the user device only if the user authentication has been successful; and receiving the user information from the first information processing device.

According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a computer system for providing personalized video, an information processing device included in the computer system, a program executed on the information processing device, and a program executed on a user device included in the computer system.

FIG. 1A is a conceptual diagram for explaining a sales technique. FIG. 1B is a diagram showing a screen 100 displayed on a user device. FIG. 1C is a diagram showing a screen 110 displayed on a user device. FIG. 1D is a diagram showing a screen 120 displayed on the user device. FIG. 1E is a diagram showing a screen 130 displayed on the user device. FIG. 1F shows a screen 140 displayed on a user device. FIG. 1G shows a screen 150 displayed on a user device. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a computer system 200 for providing personalized videos. FIG. 3A is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of information stored in the user database unit 241. As shown in FIG. FIG. 3B is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of information stored in the service database unit 242. As shown in FIG. FIG. 3C is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of information stored in the moving image database unit 251. As shown in FIG. FIG. 3D is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of information stored in the script database unit 252. As shown in FIG. FIG. 3E is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of information stored in the playback element database unit 253. FIG. 4A is a diagram showing an example of a flow of a process executed in computer system 200 for providing personalized video. FIG. 4B is a diagram showing another example of a flow of a process executed in the computer system 200 for providing personalized videos. FIG. 5A is a diagram showing another example of a flow of a process executed in the computer system 200 for providing personalized videos. FIG. 5B is a diagram showing another example of a flow of a process executed in the computer system 200 for providing personalized videos. FIG. 6A is a diagram showing an example of video playback page information 600a for displaying a video playback page. FIG. 6B is a diagram showing an example of video playback page information 600b for displaying a video playback page. Fig. 6C(a) shows an example of a code 600c for transferring real-time information specific information, and Fig. 6C(b) shows an example of real-time information 600c'. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of a playback control script 700. As shown in FIG. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of a playback control script 700. As shown in FIG. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of reproduction scenario information 800. As shown in FIG. FIG. 9 illustrates an example technique for generating and playing personalized videos. FIG. 10A illustrates an example process for generating and playing personalized videos based on a single base video. FIG. 10B is a diagram showing an example of a process for generating and playing a personalized video using playback scenario information. FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of processing of a playback element. FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a computer system 200' for providing personalized videos. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a computer system 200'' for providing personalized videos.

The following terms are used in this specification:

"Personalized video" refers to a video that is customized for a specific individual based on the personal information of that specific individual. "Personalized video" includes, for example, videos whose content reflects the personal information of a specific individual, and videos whose content reflects information corresponding to the personal information of a specific individual (for example, information generated in response to the personal information of a specific individual or information obtained in response to the personal information of a specific individual).

"Personal information" refers to information about a specific individual. Personal information includes, for example, user ID, password, name, gender, date of birth, assets, position, status, shopping habits, past purchase history, past browsing history, past behavioral history, etc. In this specification, "personal information" is also referred to as "user information."

"Base video" refers to the video that serves as the basis for generating personalized videos.

A "playback scenario" is a specification of how multiple base videos are to be played.

The following describes an embodiment of the present invention with reference to the drawings.

1. A new sales technique that does not depend on salesmen Figure 1A shows a conceptual diagram for explaining a sales technique. Figure 1A(a) is a conceptual diagram showing a conventional sales technique, and Figure 1A(b) is a conceptual diagram showing a new sales technique that does not depend on salesmen.

As shown in FIG. 1A(a), conventionally, salespeople 11-16 make sales by calling, emailing, or visiting their respective customers 21-26. However, most salespeople's sales techniques are based on experience and know-how, and there is an issue that unless the salespeople are veterans, it is difficult to give explanations that satisfy customers.

1A(b), in the present invention, sales are conducted by simply pressing a "video distribution button" on the video provider side to simultaneously provide each of the customers 21-26 with a personalized video for that customer, or by simply pressing a "video viewing button" on the video viewing side to provide each of the customers 21-26 with a personalized video for that customer. For example, the personalized video provided to each customer may be changed in at least one of the following in accordance with the customer's personal information (e.g., the customer's name) in addition to or instead of the type of video to be played, the order in which multiple videos are played when multiple videos are played, the layout of the video to be played, and the display mode of the video to be played (e.g., the content of the text, the background color, pattern, decoration, etc. of the video) in addition to or instead of the content of the video reflecting the customer's personal information (e.g., the customer's shopping habits). Alternatively, the personalized video provided to each customer may be changed in accordance with the customer's personal information (e.g., the customer's shopping habits). Alternatively, the personalized video provided to each customer may be a video customized for that customer that reflects real-time information (i.e., information generated or acquired in synchronization with the time the customer views the personalized video). In this way, by providing a video customized for a specific customer as a personalized video to that specific customer, it is possible to realize a sales method that is not dependent on salesmen. This makes it possible to "realize a world where videos work instead of salesmen."

2. User Interface for Receiving Provision of Personalized Video An example of a user interface for receiving provision of personalized video will now be described.

FIG. 1B shows a screen 100 displayed on a user device. Screen 100 is an example of a screen (login screen) that is displayed when a user uses the user device to access a website.

In the example shown in FIG. 1B, screen 100 includes a user ID input area 101 for inputting the user's customer number (user ID), a password input area 102 for inputting the user's password, and a login area 103 configured to be selectable by the user. In screen 100, the user can cause the user device to execute a login process by inputting the user's customer number in user ID input area 101 and the user's password in password input area 102, and then selecting login area 103. Note that in order to execute the login process, the user ID and password must be registered in advance.

If a user ID and password have not been registered in advance, a screen for registering a user ID and password may be displayed on the user device instead of the screen 100 shown in FIG. 1B. This allows a user using this website for the first time to first go through the user ID and password registration procedure and, after registering the user ID and password, to view the screen shown in FIG. 1C, which will be described later.

Figure 1C shows screen 110 displayed on the user device. Screen 110 is an example of a screen transitioned to from screen 100 shown in Figure 1B when the user enters a user ID and password and selects login area 103. Screen 110 shown in Figure 1C is an example of a screen when a user named "Takahashi" logs in.

In the example shown in FIG. 1C, the screen 110 includes a video playback area 111 for playing a video and a message display area 112 for displaying a message to the user. The video playback area 111 is configured to display a video thumbnail before the video starts to play or when the video is paused. The video thumbnail is configured to be selectable by the user. When the user selects a video thumbnail displayed in the video playback area 111 (for example, when the user taps a play button displayed in the center of the video thumbnail), playback of a personalized video for the user starts. This allows the user to watch the personalized video for himself or herself. In the example shown in FIG. 1C, the message display area 112 displays a message saying "A video dedicated to Mr. Takahashi has been prepared." This message is an example of a message directed to a user named "Takahashi." This message is not limited to the message shown in FIG. 1C. Any message directed to the user can be displayed in the message display area 112.

In the example shown in FIG. 1C, the number of video thumbnails displayed in video playback area 111 is one, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, multiple video thumbnails may be displayed in video playback area 111. Alternatively, if video playback area 111 is configured to be scrollable or swipeable, other video thumbnails may be displayed by the user performing a scroll operation or a swipe operation on video playback area 111.

FIG. 1D shows screen 120 displayed on the user device. Screen 120 is an example of a screen transitioned to from screen 110 in FIG. 1C by the user selecting a video thumbnail displayed in video playback area 111.

In the video playback area 111, a personalized video for the user is played. In the example shown in FIG. 1D, a personalized video with a message saying "Mr. Takahashi, thank you for using our service." is played in the video playback area 111. This message is an example of a message attached to a personalized video for a user named "Takahashi." This message is not limited to the message shown in FIG. 1D. Any personalized video with any message for the user can be displayed in the video playback area 111.

In this way, a different personalized video can be played in the video playback area 111 for each logged-in user. This allows the user to watch a personalized video that is tailored to them. As a result, a user who watches a personalized video is more likely to be impacted than if the user watches the same video for everyone. Therefore, if the content of the personalized video is an advertising video (for example, an advertising video introducing a new product), it can be said that the advertising appeal to users who watch the personalized video is great.

FIG. 1E shows screen 130 displayed on the user device. Screen 130 is an example of a screen transitioned to from screen 120 as playback of a personalized video continues. Screen 130 is an example of a screen on which a personalized video reflecting real-time information is being played.

In the video playback area 111, a personalized video for the user is played. In the example shown in FIG. 1E, a personalized video is played with a message saying, "It's raining today. Humidity is 80%. Your hair is messy, isn't it? How about a treatment?" This message reflects real-time information about the weather, "rain," and real-time information about humidity, "humidity 80%." This message is an example of a message attached to a personalized video for a user named "Takahashi." This message is not limited to the message shown in FIG. 1E. Any personalized video with any message reflecting any real-time information can be displayed in the video playback area 111.

In this way, a personalized video with a message reflecting real-time information can be played in the video playback area 111. This allows the user to watch a personalized video that reflects real-time information. As a result, a user who watches a personalized video that reflects real-time information is more likely to be impacted than a user who watches a personalized video that does not reflect real-time information, such as "How about a treatment?". Therefore, if the content of the personalized video is an advertising video (for example, an advertising video introducing a new product), it can be said that the advertising appeal to users who watch the personalized video is large.

Real-time information may be reflected not only in the message, but also in the background of the personalized video. For example, real-time information about the weather, such as "rain," may be reflected in the background of the personalized video to create a personalized video with rain patterns using cool colors. Or, real-time information about humidity may be reflected in the background of the personalized video to create a personalized video with rain patterns in which the number of rain patterns varies depending on the humidity percentage (for example, the higher the humidity percentage, the more rain patterns there are).

Furthermore, a personalized video with a message such as "It's raining today. Humidity is 80%. Your hair is messy, isn't it? How about a treatment?" shown in FIG. 1E may be provided to "users who are interested in hair care" (e.g., users who have purchased hair care products in the past, users who have read articles about hair care in the past, users who have visited a beauty salon in the past, etc.). In this way, it is possible to further increase the advertising appeal by narrowing down the users to whom a personalized video (video advertisement) is provided based on the user's personal information (e.g., past purchase history, past browsing history, past behavior history, etc.). This is an example of narrowing down the delivery destinations of a personalized video according to the user's personal information.

FIG. 1F shows screen 140 displayed on the user device. Screen 140 is an example of a screen transitioned to from screen 130 as playback of the personalized video continues. Screen 140 is an example of a screen that includes an area for user input or an area that can be selected by the user while playing the personalized video.

In the example shown in FIG. 1F, an area 141 related to product A, an area 142 related to product B, and an area 143 related to product C are displayed in the video playback area 111 of the screen 140. Each of the areas 141 related to product A, 142 related to product B, and 143 related to product C is configured to be selectable by the user. In the area 141 related to product A, outline information (e.g., product name, product image) indicating the product A is presented. The same is true for the area 142 related to product B and the area 143 related to product C. When the user selects the area 141 related to product A (e.g., taps the area 141 related to product A), the base video related to product A is played. The same is true for the area 142 related to product B and the area 143 related to product C. In the example shown in FIG. 1F, the number of areas displayed in the video playback area 111 of the screen 140 is three, but the present invention is not limited to this. The number of areas displayed in the video playback area 111 of the screen 140 may be any number greater than or equal to one.

FIG. 1G shows screen 150 displayed on the user device. Screen 150 is an example of a screen transitioned to from screen 140 shown in FIG. 1F when the user selects area 141 related to product A on screen 140.

In the video playback area 111, a base video related to product A is played. In the example shown in FIG. 1G, a base video with a message "Product A moisturizes hair and prevents dryness" is played. This message is an example of a message introducing product A. This message is not limited to the message shown in FIG. 1G. Any base video with any message related to product A can be displayed in the video playback area 111. In addition to or instead of the message, any other detailed information (e.g., product name, product image, brand name, product features) for introducing product A can be displayed in the video playback area 111.

In this way, by allowing the user to input or select while a personalized video is being played, it is possible to present the user with a personalized video that is aligned with the user's interests and preferences at the time the user views the personalized video.

3. Configuration of the Computer System FIG. 2 shows an example of the configuration of a computer system 200 for providing personalized videos.

The computer system 200 includes at least one user device 210 ₁ to 210 _N , a user information management device 220 configured to be able to provide user information, and a video providing device 230 configured to be able to provide one or more base videos. Each of the at least one user device 210 ₁ to 210 _N is configured to be able to communicate with the user information management device 220 and the video providing device 230 via the Internet 260 (for example, using the World Wide Web (WWW)). Here, N is an arbitrary integer equal to or greater than 1. The user information management device 220 is connected to a first database unit 240. The video providing device 230 is connected to a second database unit 250.

The computer system 200 may further include a real-time information providing device 270 configured to provide real-time information, where each of the at least one user device 210 ₁ -210 _N is further configured to communicate with the real-time information providing device 270 via the Internet 260.

Each of the at least one user device 210 ₁ -210 _N may be any type of terminal device configured to be connectable to the Internet 260. Each of the at least one user device 210 ₁ -210 _N is preferably, but not limited to, a mobile wireless terminal such as a mobile phone, a smartphone, a tablet terminal, smart glasses, a smart watch terminal, etc. Each of the at least one user device 210 ₁ -210 _N may be a personal computer such as a desktop PC, a laptop PC, a notebook PC, etc.

The user device _210-1 has an interface unit 211 that controls communication via the Internet 260, a processor unit 212 including one or more CPUs (Central Processing Units), and a memory unit 213. Note that the configurations of the user devices _210-2 to 210- _N are the same as that of the user device _210-1 , and therefore description thereof will be omitted here.

In addition to basic programs such as an operating system (OS), the memory unit 213 is installed with a program (application program) for executing a process required for receiving a service that provides personalized video. Here, it does not matter how the program is installed in the memory unit 213. For example, the program may be pre-installed in the memory unit 213. Alternatively, the program may be installed in the memory unit 213 by being downloaded via a network such as the Internet 260, or may be installed in the memory unit 213 via a storage medium such as an optical disk or USB. The processor unit 212 reads out the program stored in the memory unit 213 and executes the program. This allows the user device _210-1 to function as a client device that constitutes a part of the computer system 200.

Alternatively, the user device 210 ₁ can access a website by using a built-in program or an additional program of a web browser preinstalled in the memory unit 213. In this case, the user device 210 ₁ can use a service on the web browser without installing an application program in the memory unit 313.

The user information management device 220 includes an interface unit 221 that controls communication via the Internet 260, a processor unit 222 that includes one or more CPUs, and a memory unit 223. The hardware configuration of the user information management device 220 is not important. The user information management device 220 can have any hardware configuration as long as it can realize its functions.

In addition to basic programs such as an operating system (OS), a program (server program) for executing the processes required to provide personalized videos is installed in the memory unit 223. The processor unit 222 reads out the program stored in the memory unit 223 and executes the program. This enables the user information management device 220 to function as a server device (management server) that constitutes part of the computer system 200.

A first database unit 240 is connected to the user information management device 220. The first database unit 240 includes a user database unit 241 and a service database unit 242.

The video providing device 230 is configured to be capable of communicating with at least one user device 210 ₁ to 210 _N via the Internet 260. In addition to basic programs such as an operating system (OS), a program (server program) for executing processes required for providing one or more base videos is installed in a memory unit (not shown) of the video providing device 230. A processor unit (not shown) of the video providing device 230 reads out the program stored in the memory unit and executes the program. This allows the video providing device 230 to function as a server device (distribution server) constituting a part of the computer system 200.

A second database unit 250 is connected to the video providing device 230. The second database unit 250 includes a video database unit 251, a script database unit 252, and a playback element database unit 253.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 2, it has been described that at least one of the user devices 210 ₁ to 210 _N can communicate with the user information management device 220 and the video providing device 230 via the Internet 260, but the present invention is not limited to this. Any type of network can be used instead of the Internet 260. In addition, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 2, the communication between at least one of the user devices 210 ₁ to 210 _N and the user information management device 220 and the communication between at least one of the user devices 210 ₁ to 210 _N and the video providing device 230 are realized via the same network, but the present invention is not limited to this. The communication between at least one of the user devices 210 ₁ to 210 _N and the user information management device 220 and the communication between at least one of the user devices 210 ₁ to 210 _N and the video providing device 230 may be realized via the same network or via different separate networks.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 2, the first database unit 240 is provided outside the user information management device 220, but the form is not important. For example, the first database unit 240 may be configured as a single external hard disk device of the user information management device 220, or may be configured as a cloud storage connected via a network. Alternatively, the first database unit 240 can be provided inside the user information management device 220. The configuration of the first database unit 240 is not limited to a specific hardware configuration. For example, the first database unit 240 may be configured as a single hardware component, or may be configured as multiple hardware components. Furthermore, the configuration of each database unit included in the first database unit 240 is also not limited to a specific hardware configuration. For example, each database unit included in the first database unit 240 may also be configured as a single hardware component, or may be configured as multiple hardware components.

Similarly, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 2, the second database unit 250 is provided outside the video providing device 230, but the form is not important. For example, the second database unit 250 may be configured as a single external hard disk device of the video providing device 230, or may be configured as a cloud storage connected via a network. Alternatively, the second database unit 250 can be provided inside the video providing device 230. The configuration of the second database unit 250 is not limited to a specific hardware configuration. For example, the second database unit 250 may be configured as a single hardware component, or may be configured as multiple hardware components. Furthermore, the configuration of each database unit included in the second database unit 250 is also not limited to a specific hardware configuration. For example, each database unit included in the second database unit 250 may also be configured as a single hardware component, or may be configured as multiple hardware components.

Figure 3A shows an example of the configuration of information stored in the user database section 241.

The user database unit 241 stores information about users (user information). The user information can be identified by information for identifying the user (for example, a user ID). The user database unit 241 further stores, for example, a password preset by the user, the user's name, gender, date of birth, address, telephone number, email address, and facial photo. Note that since the user ID and password are stored in the user database unit 241, the user ID and password are considered to be registered.

Figure 3B shows an example of the configuration of information stored in the service database unit 242.

The service database unit 242 stores information (service information) about services provided by the company that operates the user information management device 220. The service information is associated with information for identifying the user (e.g., a user ID). The service database unit 242 further stores information indicating, for example, the card type, current points, this month's billing amount, and shopping trends. The service information is an example of personal information.

Figure 3C shows an example of the configuration of information stored in the video database unit 251.

The video database unit 251 stores information related to videos. The information related to videos can be identified by information for identifying the video (e.g., a video ID). The video database unit 251 further stores, for example, a base video, image data, audio data, font data, color data, pattern data, and decoration data.

Figure 3D shows an example of the configuration of information stored in the script database unit 252.

The script database unit 252 stores information related to playback scenario generation information (e.g., playback control script). The information related to playback scenario generation information (e.g., playback control script) can be identified by information for identifying the playback control script (e.g., script ID). The script database unit 252 further stores, for example, playback video configuration determination data and attribute determination data. The playback video configuration determination data and attribute determination data are data written using, for example, JavaScript (registered trademark) code.

Figure 3E shows an example of the configuration of information stored in the playback element database unit 253.

The playback element database unit 253 stores information about playback elements. The information about the playback elements can be identified by information for identifying the playback element (e.g., a playback element ID). The playback element database unit 253 further stores, for example, drawing color, text font, effect type, display string, read-aloud string, layout information, image file link, and audio file link.

4. Processing of the Computer System Fig. 4A shows an example of a flow of processing executed in the computer system 200 for providing personalized videos. By executing the processing shown in Fig. 4A, the user device can execute processing for generating and playing personalized videos based on user information and a base video. Each step shown in Fig. 4A will be described below.

Step S401: The user device 210 ₁ executes a login request process. This process is achieved, for example, by the user device 210 ₁ transmitting login information (for example, a login ID and a password) input by a user to the user device 210 ₁ to the user information management device 220. The login information is input to the user device 210 ₁ , for example, via the user interface of the screen 100 shown in FIG. 1B.

Step S402: The user information management device 220 executes a process of user authentication. This process is achieved, for example, by determining whether or not user information related to the login information (e.g., user ID and password) received from the user device _210-1 is stored in the user database unit 241 in the first database unit 240. If the result of this determination is "Yes", the user information management device 220 determines that the user authentication has been successful, and acquires user information related to the login information (e.g., the user information shown in FIG. 3A) from the user database unit 241. If the result of this determination is "No", the user information management device 220 determines that the user authentication has failed, and transmits information indicating that the login has failed to the user device _210-1 .

In addition, in step S402, the user authentication process may be performed using login information (e.g., an encrypted character string, a UUID) that is capable of identifying an individual but makes it difficult for a third party to identify the individual. This makes it possible to omit the user's input of login information in step S401.

Step S403: The user information management device 220 transmits the user information acquired from the user database unit 241 and video specification information for specifying the base video to the user device _210-1 . The video specification information includes, for example, an address (e.g., URL) indicating the location of the base video stored in the video database unit 251. The user information management device 220 may transmit fixed video specification information to the user device _210-1 regardless of the user information, or may transmit variable video specification information to the user device _210-1 depending on the user information. The user information and the video specification information may be transmitted to the user device _210-1 separately in different data formats, or may be transmitted to the user device _210-1 together in a single data format (e.g., a data format called video playback page information).

Step S404: The user device 210 ₁ executes a process of detecting a video playback request. This process is achieved, for example, by the user device 210 ₁ displaying a screen for the user to input a video playback request and detecting that the user has input a video playback request. For example, when the user selects a video thumbnail displayed in the video playback area 111 shown on the screen 110 shown in FIG. 1C, the user device 210 ₁ detects that the user has input a video playback request.

Step S405: The user device _210-1 executes processing of the base moving image provision request. This processing is achieved, for example, by transferring the moving image specification information received from the user information management device 220 to the moving image provision device 230 in response to detecting that the user has input a moving image playback request.

Step S406: The video providing device 230 executes a process of identifying a base video. This process is achieved, for example, by using the video identification information to identify a base video stored in the video database unit 251 in the second database unit 250. If the video identification information includes an address (e.g., a URL) indicating the location of the base video stored in the video database unit 251, this process is achieved, for example, by using the address (e.g., a URL) to identify the location of the base video stored in the video database unit 251. Note that the identified base video may be composed of a combination of video and audio, may be composed of video only, or may be composed of audio only.

Step S407: The moving image providing device 230 executes a process of providing a base moving image. This process is achieved, for example, by providing the base moving image identified in step S406 to the user device _210-1 .

Step S408: The user device 210 ₁ executes a process of generating and playing a personalized moving image based on the user information provided by the user information management device 220 and the base moving image provided by the moving image providing device 230 .

The processing in step S408 is achieved, for example, by generating and playing a personalized video based on the user information and the base video in accordance with predetermined user information display plan information, which indicates at what position and when the user information is to be displayed on layer D2 shown in FIG. 9, and which is coded in advance into the base video. Details of this processing are described later, for example, with reference to FIG. 10A.

4A, an example in which the user information is provided from the user information management device 220 to the user device _210-1 in step S403 has been described, but the present invention is not limited to this. The timing at which the user information is provided from the user information management device 220 to the user device _210-1 may be any timing after step S403 and before step S408.

The process by the user device _210-1 in step S408 may be performed in a streaming manner in which the video is played in parallel with downloading the video, or in a manner in which the video is played after downloading is completed.

Figure 4B shows another example of a process flow executed in computer system 200 for providing personalized videos. By executing the process shown in Figure 4B, the user device can execute a process of generating and playing personalized videos based on user information, base videos, and real-time information. Each step shown in Figure 4B will be described below. Note that the steps shown in Figure 4B that are the same as the steps shown in Figure 4A are given the same step numbers as those shown in Figure 4A, and detailed descriptions thereof will be omitted.

Step S401: The user device _210-1 executes a login request process.

Step S402: The user information management device 220 performs user authentication processing.

Step S403': The user information management device 220 transmits to the user device 210.1 the user information acquired from the user database unit ₂₄₁ , video identification information for identifying the base video, and real-time information identification information for identifying the real-time information. The video identification information includes, for example, an address (e.g., URL) indicating the location of the base video stored in the video database unit 251. The real-time information identification information includes, for example, an address (e.g., URL) indicating the location of a website (e.g., weather information website) provided by the real-time information providing device 270, and information (e.g., "current weather", "current humidity", etc.) that the user wants to receive from the website in real time. The user information management device 220 may transmit fixed video identification information to the user device _210.1 regardless of the user information, or may transmit variable video identification information to the user device _210.1 depending on the user information. Similarly, the user information management device 220 may transmit fixed real-time information specifying information to the user device _210-1 regardless of the user information, or may transmit variable real-time information specifying information according to the user information to the user device _210-1 . Note that the user information, the video specifying information, and the real-time information specifying information may be transmitted to the user device _210-1 in separate data formats, or may be transmitted to the user device 210-1 together in a single data format (e.g., a data format called video playback page information), or only the user information and the video specifying information may be transmitted to the user device _210-1 in a single data format (e.g., a data format called video playback page information) (i.e., the real-time information specifying information is in a data format separate from the user information and the _video specifying information).

Step S404: The user device _210-1 executes a video playback request detection process.

Step S404'-1: The user device _210-1 executes the process of the real-time information provision request. This process is achieved, for example, by transferring the real-time information specification information received from the user information management device 220 to the real-time information providing device 270.

Step S404'-2: The real-time information providing device 270 executes a process for identifying real-time information. This process is achieved, for example, by using the real-time information identifying information to identify the real-time information that should be reflected in the personalized video. If the real-time information identifying information includes an address (URL) indicating the location of a weather information website provided by the real-time information providing device 270, and "current weather" and "current humidity" as information that is desired to be provided in real time from the weather information website, this process is achieved, for example, by identifying "current weather" and "current humidity" as information that should be provided in real time from the weather information website.

Step S404'-3: The real-time information providing device 270 executes a process of providing real-time information. This process is achieved, for example, by providing the real-time information identified in step S404'-2 to the user device _210-1 . In the case where the real-time information identifying information includes an address (URL) indicating the location of a weather information website provided by the real-time information providing device 270 and "current weather" and "current humidity" as information desired to be provided in real time from the weather information website, this process is achieved, for example, by providing information indicating "current weather" = "rain" and "current humidity" = "80%" to the user device _210-1 as real-time information.

Step S405: The user device _210-1 executes processing for the base moving image provision request.

Step S406: The video providing device 230 executes the process of identifying the base video.

Step S407: The video providing device 230 executes the base video providing process.

Step S408': The user device _210-1 executes a process of generating and playing a personalized moving image based on the user information provided by the user information management device 220, the base moving image provided by the moving image providing device 230, and the real-time information provided by the real-time information providing device 270. This process is achieved, for example, by reflecting the real-time information in the personalized moving image generated and played in the process of step S408 described above.

4B, an example in which the user information is provided from the user information management device 220 to the user device _210-1 in step S403' has been described, but the present invention is not limited to this. The timing at which the user information is provided from the user information management device 220 to the user device _210-1 may be any timing after step S403' and before step S408'.

In the embodiment described with reference to FIG. 4B, steps S404'-1 to S404'-3 are described as being executed after step S404 and before step S405, but the present invention is not limited to this. Steps S404'-1 to S404'-3 may be executed at any timing after step S404 and before step S409. That is, the series of processes requesting the provision of real-time information (steps S404'-1 to S404'-3) and the series of processes requesting the provision of base moving images (steps S405 to S408) may be executed in parallel, or the series of processes requesting the provision of base moving images may be executed after the series of processes requesting the provision of real-time information.

Fig. 5A shows another example of a process flow executed in the computer system 200 for providing personalized videos. By executing the process shown in Fig. 5A, the user device _210-1 can execute a process of generating and playing personalized videos based on playback scenario information and a plurality of base videos. Each step shown in Fig. 5A will be described below.

Step S501: The user device _210.sub.1 executes a login request process. This step is similar to step S401 shown in FIG. 4A, so a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

Step S502: The user information management device 220 executes user authentication processing. This step is similar to step S402 shown in FIG. 4A, so a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

Step S503: The user information management device 220 transmits to the user device 210-1 the user information acquired from the user database unit ₂₄₁ and playback scenario generation information specifying information for specifying playback scenario generation information for generating playback scenario information indicating playback scenarios of multiple base moving pictures. The playback scenario generation information specifying information includes, for example, an address (e.g., URL) indicating the location of the playback scenario generation information stored in the script database unit 252. The user information management device 220 may transmit fixed playback scenario generation information specifying information to the user device _210-1 regardless of the user information, or may transmit variable playback scenario generation information specifying information to the user device _210-1 depending on the user information. Note that the user information and the playback scenario generation information specifying information may be transmitted to the user device _210-1 separately in different data formats, or may be transmitted to the user device _210-1 together in a single data format (e.g., a data format called video playback page information).

Step S504: The user device 210 ₁ executes a process of detecting a video playback request. This step is similar to step S404 shown in Fig. 4A, and therefore a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

Step S505: The user device _210-1 executes a process of the playback scenario generating information provision request. This process is achieved, for example, by transferring the playback scenario generating information identifying information received from the user information management device 220 to the video providing device 230 in response to detecting that the user has input a video playback request.

Step S506: The video providing device 230 executes a process of identifying playback scenario generation information. This process is achieved, for example, by identifying playback scenario generation information stored in the script database unit 252 in the second database unit 250 using the playback scenario generation information identification information. For example, if the playback scenario generation information identification information is a video playback control script described with reference to FIG. 7, this process is achieved, for example, by identifying the video playback control script stored in the script database unit 252. Note that an example of playback scenario generation information is the video playback control script described with reference to FIG. 7 (excluding real-time information identification information), but is not limited to this. Note that the identified base video may be composed of a combination of video and audio, may be composed of only video, or may be composed of only audio.

Step S507: The moving image providing device 230 executes a process of providing playback scenario generating information. This process is achieved, for example, by providing the playback scenario generating information identified in step S506 to the user device _210-1 .

Step S508: The user device _210.1 executes a process of generating playback scenario information indicating a playback scenario of a plurality of base videos based on the user information provided by the user information management device 220 and the playback scenario generation information provided by the video providing device 230. The playback scenario information includes at least video specification information for specifying a plurality of base videos. The playback scenario information may further include playback order specification information for specifying the playback order of the plurality of base videos, and attribute setting information for setting attributes of the plurality of base videos (e.g., background color, pattern, decoration of the video). This playback scenario information makes it possible to control what type of video is provided to the user as a personalized video, in what playback order the base videos are played, in what layout the video is displayed, and in what display mode the video is displayed.

Step S509: The user device _210-1 processes the multiple base moving image providing requests based on the playback scenario information. This process is achieved, for example, by transmitting moving image specifying information included in the playback scenario information to the moving image providing device 230.

Step S510: The video providing device 230 executes a process of identifying multiple base videos. This process is achieved, for example, by using the video identification information to identify multiple base videos stored in the video database unit 251 in the second database unit 250. If the video identification information includes an address (e.g., a URL) indicating the positions of the multiple base videos stored in the video database unit 251, this process is achieved, for example, by using the address (e.g., a URL) to identify the positions of the multiple base videos stored in the video database unit 251. Note that the identified multiple base videos may be composed of a combination of video and audio, may be composed of video only, or may be composed of audio only.

Step S511: The video providing device 230 executes a process of providing a plurality of base videos. This process is achieved, for example, by providing the plurality of base videos identified in step S510 to the user device 210. _1. In this embodiment, the plurality of base videos provided may include a video common to all users and a video for a specific user (e.g., a video for men, a video for gold card holders), or may include only a video for a specific user.

Step S512: The user device _210-1 executes a process of generating and playing personalized moving pictures based on a plurality of base moving pictures provided by the moving picture providing device 230 in accordance with the playback scenario information generated by the user device _210-1 . Details of this process will be described later with reference to, for example, Figs. 10B and 11.

5A, an example in which the user information is provided from the user information management device 220 to the user device _210-1 in step S503 has been described, but the present invention is not limited to this. The timing at which the user information is provided from the user information management device 220 to the user device _210-1 may be any timing after step S503 and before step S508.

Fig. 5B shows another example of a process flow executed in the computer system 200 for providing personalized moving images. By executing the process shown in Fig. 5B, the user device _210-1 can execute a process of generating and playing personalized moving images based on playback scenario information, a plurality of base moving images, and real-time information. Each step shown in Fig. 5B will be described below. Note that among the steps shown in Fig. 5B, the same steps as those shown in Fig. 5A are assigned the same step numbers as those shown in Fig. 5A, and detailed descriptions thereof will be omitted.

Step S501: The user device _210-1 executes a login request process.

Step S502: The user information management device 220 performs user authentication processing.

Step S503': The user information management device 220 transmits to the user device 210-1 the user information acquired from the user database unit ₂₄₁ , playback scenario generation information specifying information for specifying playback scenario generation information for generating playback scenario information indicating playback scenarios of multiple base moving pictures, and real-time information specifying information for specifying real-time information. The playback scenario generation information specifying information includes, for example, an address (for example, a URL) indicating the location of the playback scenario generation information stored in the script database unit 252. The user information management device 220 may transmit fixed playback scenario generation information specifying information to the user device _210-1 regardless of the user information, or may transmit variable playback scenario generation information specifying information to the user device _210-1 depending on the user information. Note that the user information and the playback scenario generation information specifying information may be transmitted to the user device _210-1 in separate data formats, or may be transmitted to the user device _210-1 together in a single data format (for example, a data format called video playback page information).

Step S504: The user device _210-1 executes a video playback request detection process.

Step S505: The user device _210-1 executes processing for requesting provision of reproduction scenario generating information.

Step S506: The video providing device 230 executes a process for identifying playback scenario generation information. An example of playback scenario generation information is a video playback control script, which is described with reference to FIG. 7.

Step S507: The video providing device 230 executes the process of providing playback scenario generation information.

Since the playback scenario generating information described with reference to Fig. 7 includes a code for transferring real-time information specifying information, the user device _210-1 can request real-time information when receiving the playback scenario generating information from the video providing device 230 (for example, the address information included in the user information and "current weather" and "current humidity" can be transferred as real-time information specifying information). Here, the real-time information specifying information can include, for example, a part of the user information (for example, the address information included in the user information), an address (for example, a URL) indicating the location of a website (for example, a weather information website) provided by the real-time information providing device 270, and information (for example, "current weather", "current humidity", etc.) that is desired to be provided from the website in real time. In the embodiment described with reference to Fig. 7, a code depending on the user information is used, but the present invention is not limited to this. As with the playback scenario generation information specifying information, the moving image providing device 230 may realize real-time information specifying information independent of user information by transmitting a fixed code to the user device _210-1 regardless of the user information, or the moving image providing device 230 may realize real-time information specifying information dependent on user information by transmitting a variable code to the user device _210-1 depending on the user information.

Step S507'-1: The user device _210-1 executes the process of the real-time information provision request. This process is achieved, for example, by transferring the real-time information specification information received from the user information management device 220 to the real-time information providing device 270.

Step S507'-2: The real-time information providing device 270 executes a process for identifying real-time information. This process is achieved, for example, by using the real-time information identifying information to identify the real-time information that should be reflected in the personalized video. If the real-time information identifying information includes an address (URL) indicating the location of a weather information website provided by the real-time information providing device 270, and "current weather" and "current humidity" as information that is desired to be provided in real time from the weather information website, this process is achieved, for example, by identifying "current weather" and "current humidity" as information that should be provided in real time from the weather information website.

Step S507'-3: The real-time information providing device 270 executes a process of providing real-time information. This process is achieved, for example, by providing the real-time information identified in step S504'-2 to the user device _210-1 . In the case where the real-time information identifying information includes an address (URL) indicating the location of a weather information website provided by the real-time information providing device 270 and "current weather" and "current humidity" as information desired to be provided in real time from the weather information website, this process is achieved, for example, by providing information indicating "current weather" = "rain" and "current humidity" = "80%" to the user device _210-1 as real-time information.

Step S508: The user device _210-1 executes a process of generating playback scenario information indicating playback scenarios of a plurality of base moving images, based on the user information provided by the user information management device 220 and the playback scenario generation information provided by the moving image providing device 230.

Step S509: The user device _210-1 processes a plurality of base moving image provision requests based on the playback scenario information.

Step S510: The video providing device 230 executes a process to identify multiple base videos.

Step S511: The video providing device 230 executes the process of providing multiple base videos.

Step _S512 ': The user device _210-1 executes a process of generating and playing a personalized moving image based on the multiple base moving images provided by the moving image providing device 230 and the real-time information provided by the real-time information providing device 270 in accordance with the playback scenario information generated by the user device 210-1. This process is achieved, for example, by reflecting the real-time information in the personalized moving image generated and played in the process of step S512 described above.

In the above embodiment, the user device _210.sub.1 uses the real-time information only in step S512', but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, instead of step S508, in step S508', the user device _210.sub.1 may execute a process of generating playback scenario information indicating a playback scenario of a plurality of base moving pictures based on the user information provided by the user information management device 220, the playback scenario generation information provided by the moving picture providing device 230, and the real-time information provided by the real-time information providing device 270. This allows the user device _210.sub.1 to be provided from the moving picture providing device 230 with a plurality of base moving pictures reflecting the real-time information (for example, if the real-time information is information about "rain", a plurality of base moving pictures reflecting rain patterns in the background).

In the above embodiment, an example was described in which the code for transferring the real-time information specifying information is included in the playback scenario generating information, but the present invention is not limited to this. As in the embodiment described with reference to Fig. 4B, in step S503' of Fig. 5B, the user information management device 220 may provide the user device _210-1 with a code for transferring the real-time information specifying information together with the user information and the playback scenario generating information specifying information.

In this way, since the user information is not provided to the video providing device 230, it is possible to prevent the leakage of unnecessary user information and improve security. In addition, when the personalized video is generated and played using the playback scenario information, it is possible to provide different personalized videos depending on personal information (e.g., the user's attributes (e.g., male or female, gold card holder, silver card holder, or bronze card holder)). Furthermore, when the personalized video is generated and played reflecting real-time information, the personal information and real-time information work together to make the video more user-oriented, which makes it more appealing to the user. Furthermore, by making it possible to accept the user's selections and inputs for the personalized video while it is being played, it is possible to present personalized videos that depend not only on the user's personal information but also on the user's current hobbies and preferences.

5B, an example in which the user information is provided from the user information management device 220 to the user device _210-1 in step S503' has been described, but the present invention is not limited to this. The timing at which the user information is provided from the user information management device 220 to the user device _210-1 may be any timing after step S503' and before step S508.

In the above embodiment, the real-time information providing device 270 is described as providing a website, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The real-time information providing device 270 may have any configuration as long as it is capable of achieving the function of providing real-time information to the user device _210.1 . That is, the real-time information providing device 270 may be realized by any hardware and/or any software. In the above embodiment, the real-time information is provided to the user device _210.1 from the outside of the user device _210.1 (i.e., the real-time information providing device 270), but the present invention is not limited thereto. The real-time information may be provided from the inside of the user device _210.1 (e.g., the memory unit 213).

Fig. 6A shows an example of video playback page information 600a for displaying a video playback page. The video playback page information 600a is generated in the user information management device 220. The video playback page information 600a is used to transmit both user information and video identification information to the user device _210-1 , for example, in step S403 of Fig. 4A.

In the example shown in FIG. 6A, the video playback page information 600a includes video specific information described in an iframe tag 610 and user information described in a script tag 620. In the example shown in FIG. 6A, the video playback page information 600a is formed by an HTML file written in HTML (HyperText Markup Language).

The description in the iframe tag 610 shown in FIG. 6A represents the video playback area 111 described with reference to FIG. 1C. In the example shown in FIG. 6A, the URL of a video in the domain of the video providing company (video providing device 230) is specified in the src attribute of the iframe tag 610. This video URL is associated with the video ID described above.

User information is embedded in the script tag 620 shown in FIG. 6A. In the example shown in FIG. 6A, the user information includes a user ID, a name, a card type, a billing month, a billing amount for this month, and a current point, but the present invention is not limited to these. The user information embedded in the script tag 620 may also include gender, date of birth, shopping tendency, etc. In the example shown in FIG. 6A, the user information is described in JSON (JavaScript Object Notation) format using JavaScript code. For example, by using the window.postMessage method, which is available in JavaScript from HTML5 onwards and is capable of secure cross-domain communication, data can be transferred between JavaScript codes of web pages in different domains within the browser without sending data outside the device. Furthermore, if the domain of the page (parent page) in which the iframe tag 610 is embedded and the domain of the page (child page) displayed within the iframe are different (i.e., in the case of cross-domain), the risk of unintended leakage of personal information from the user information management device 220 can be avoided by using a mechanism that prevents the child page from directly accessing information on the parent page.

Fig. 6B shows an example of video playback page information 600b for displaying a video playback page. The video playback page information 600b is generated in the user information management device 220. The video playback page information 600b is used, for example, to transmit both user information and video identification information to the user device _210-1 in step S403' in Fig. 4B.

In the example shown in FIG. 6B, the video playback page information 600b includes video specific information described in an iframe tag 610 and user information described in a script tag 620'. In the example shown in FIG. 6B, the video playback page information 600b is formed of an HTML file written in HTML (HyperText Markup Language), similar to the video playback page information 600a in FIG. 6A.

The iframe tag 610 shown in FIG. 6B is the same as the iframe tag 610 shown in FIG. 6A, so a detailed explanation will be omitted here.

User information is embedded in the video playback page information 600b shown in FIG. 6B. In the example shown in FIG. 6B, the user information includes a user ID, name, gender, address, recommended product 1, recommended product 2, and recommended product 3, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The address information included in the user information of the video playback page information 600b can be used as real-time information identification information, for example, to obtain real-time information, as described in more detail below. The user information included in the video playback page information 600b is written in JSON (JavaScript Object Notation) format using JavaScript code, but since this is similar to the video playback page information 600a, a detailed description thereof will be omitted here.

Fig. 6C(a) shows an example of a code 600c for transferring real-time information specifying information. The code 600c shown in Fig. 6C(a) is generated in the user information management device 220. The code 600c is transmitted to the user device _210-1 separately from the video playback page information 600b shown in Fig. 6B, for example, in step S403' in Fig. 4B. Alternatively, the code 600c may be incorporated into the video playback page information 600b, so that the user information, the video specifying information, and the real-time information specifying information can be transmitted to the user device _210-1 in an integrated manner.

In the example shown in FIG. 6C(a), the real-time information is the current weather and current humidity, and code 600c describes code that generates a comment (playback element) such as "Today is XX. Humidity □□" using user_data.d3 (i.e., address information included in the user information of video playback page information 600b shown in FIG. 6B). Therefore, in the example shown in FIG. 6C(a), the address information, "current weather" and "current humidity" are real-time information specific information. Note that XX is substituted with the weather (e.g., sunny, cloudy, rainy, snowy, etc.), and □□ is substituted with humidity (e.g., any numerical value such as 0%, 10%, 20%).

Fig. 6C(b) shows an example of real-time information 600c'. The real-time information 600c' shown in Fig. 6C(b) is real-time information when the user device _210-1 acquires real-time information on weather and humidity using the code 600c shown in Fig. 6C(a).

In the example shown in Fig. 6C(b), the real-time information 600c' indicates that the weather is "rainy" and the humidity is "80%." When the user device _210-1 receives this real-time information 600c' from the real-time information providing device 270, it is able to generate a comment (playback element) such as "The weather is rainy. Humidity is 80%." as shown in Fig. 1E.

In the example described with reference to FIG. 6C(a), real-time information is obtained using address information included in the user information as real-time information identifying information, but the present invention is not limited to this. Real-time information can be obtained using any information included in the user information as real-time information identifying information. In the example described with reference to FIG. 6C(a), current weather and current humidity are described as examples of real-time information, but the present invention is not limited to this. Real-time information can be any information that can be generated or obtained in real time.

Note that the video playback page information used to transmit both the user information and the playback scenario generating information identifying information to the user device _210-1 in step S503 in Fig. 5A is similar to the video playback page information 600a in Fig. 6A except that video identifying information is used, and an example of a description of the playback scenario generating information identifying information is the URL of the playback scenario generating information of the video providing company's domain (video providing device 230) specified in the src attribute of the iframe tag 610. This URL of the playback scenario generating information is associated with the above-mentioned script ID. Also, the video playback page information used to transmit the user information, playback scenario generating information identifying information, and real time information identifying information to the user device _210-1 in step S503' in FIG. 5B is similar to the video playback page information 600a in FIG. 6A, except that the video identifying information and real time information identifying information are used, an example of a description of the playback scenario generating information identifying information is similar to the description of the playback scenario generating information identifying information in the video playback page information in step S503 in FIG. 5A, and an example of a description of the real time information identifying information is similar to the description of the real time information identifying information in FIG. 7 described later.

The user device _210.sub.1 may also include a web browser (not shown) and a video player (playback means) (not shown) constructed by executing a program by the processor unit 212, and the personalized video may be generated and played on the video player. In this case, when the user device _210.sub.1 receives the video playback page information 600a from the user information management device 220, the user device 210.sub.1 may start the video player on the web browser according to the iframe tag 610 of the video playback page information _600a . The video player is implemented as a web page written in HTML and JavaScript that runs in the web browser of the user device 210.sub.1. That is, the video player executes a video playback process that is realized by the processor unit 212 of the user device _210.sub.1 executing a program. The video player may also be configured to execute processes related to video playback that are independent of the video playback content (for example, a process of receiving user information, reading and executing a video playback control script, displaying a video playback screen, and a playback control operation by a user (starting and stopping playback, etc.)). Instead of a web browser, the video player may operate within a web browser module (WebView) incorporated in application software running on the user device _210-1 .

Figure 7 shows an example of a playback control script 700. As described above, the playback control script 700 is an example of playback scenario generation information. The playback control script 700 is used, for example, in step S508 of Figure 5A to generate playback scenario information.

In the example shown in Fig. 7, the playback control script 700 is a program executed on the user device _210-1 . The playback control script 700 includes playback moving image configuration determination information 710 for determining the configuration of the moving image to be played back based on user information, and attribute determination information 720 for determining the attribute of the user information based on the user information. The playback control script 700 also includes code 730 for transferring real-time information specifying information. This code 730 has a similar configuration to the code 600c described with reference to Fig. 6C(a).

In the example shown in FIG. 7, the playback video configuration determination information 710 includes information on a video with video ID "A" (file name "A.mp4", video length 10) as the first video common to all users, and information on a second video that changes depending on whether the user is male or female (the video for men is video with video ID "B" (file name "B.mp4", video length 20), and the video for women is video with video ID "C" (file name "C.mp4", video length 10)). This makes it possible to change the second video depending on whether the user is male or female. In addition, the playback video configuration determination information 710 may further include information on a third video (a video with video ID "D" when the first area (e.g., first selectable area 141) is selected, a video with video ID "E" when the second area (e.g., second selectable area 142) is selected, and a video with video ID "F" when the third area (e.g., third selectable area 143) is selected) that changes depending on input from the user during playback of the personalized video. This makes it possible to change the third video depending on input from the user during playback. Note that the video information included in the playback video configuration determination information 710 is not limited to these.

In the example shown in FIG. 7, the attribute determination information 720 is configured so that the background color, pattern, and decoration of each video can be changed based on user information. Furthermore, the attribute determination information 720 may be configured so that the background color, pattern, and decoration of each video can be changed based on real-time information.

Note that, although an example has been described in which the second video differs depending on the gender of the user, the present invention is not limited to this. The second video may differ depending on any information included in the user information.

Although an example has been described in which the first video is a common video, the second video is user information dependent video, and the third video is user input dependent video, the present invention is not limited to this. A personalized video may be composed of any combination of a common video, a user information dependent video, and/or a user input dependent video.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 7, the order of the videos to be played is predetermined, but the present invention is not limited to this. The playback video configuration determination information 710 may be configured such that the order of the videos to be played can be changed based on user information and/or input from the user.

The attribute determination information 720 is linked to the data included in the script tag 620 shown in FIG. 6A or FIG. 6B. For example, the display character string of the attribute determination information 720 is linked to "d1" of the script tag 620 shown in FIG. 6A. As a result, when "d1" of the script tag 620 shown in FIG. 6A is "Takahashi", the user information "Takahashi" is reflected in the display character string of the attribute determination information 720. Also, for example, the drawing color of the attribute determination information 720 is linked to "d2" of the script tag 620' shown in FIG. 6B. As a result, when "d2" of the script tag 620 shown in FIG. 6A is "gold", or when "d2" of the script tag 620' shown in FIG. 6B is "woman", the color "gold" is reflected in the drawing color of the attribute determination information 720.

In addition, in the example shown in FIG. 7, an example has been described in which playback scenario information is generated by making case distinctions using "if" in the playback video configuration determination information 710 of the playback control script 700, but the present invention is not limited to this. Playback scenario information can be generated in any manner. For example, playback scenario information may be generated by making case distinctions using random numbers in the playback control script 700.

Figure 8 shows an example of playback scenario information 800. The playback scenario information 800 is generated, for example, in step S508 of Figure 5A.

In the example shown in FIG. 8, the playback scenario information 800 includes playback video information 810 indicating a list of videos to be played, and attribute setting information 820 for setting attributes of user information. In the example shown in FIG. 8, the playback scenario information 800 is described in JSON format. The personalized video is played according to the playback scenario information 800 as described in the playback video information 810 and the attribute setting information 820.

In the example shown in FIG. 8, the playback video information 810 includes video IDs "A", "B", "D", "E", and "F" as video identification information for identifying the multiple base videos to be played, and includes information such as "first video = video ID "A", second video = video ID "B", third video = video ID "D" or video ID "E" or video ID "F"" as playback order identification information for identifying the playback order of the multiple base videos to be played.

Attribute setting information 820 includes a playback element ID, a video ID of the target video, a start time of the target video, an end time of the target video, a playback element type, and various parameters of the playback element (display string, read-aloud string, layout information, image file name, audio file name, font designation, drawing color, effect type, link destination URL). In the example shown in FIG. 8, attribute setting information 820 indicates that the character string "Takahashi-san" is to be displayed in text display left-justified in the range (x, y, w, h) = (240, 108, 340, 45) from the playback position 1 to 9 seconds of video ID "A", with the font style being bold, the font size being 45px, the font type being sans-serif, the drawing color being black, and the display effect being fade-in-out. Furthermore, when real-time information is reflected in the personalized video, the attribute setting information 820 may further include various parameters of the real-time information (display string, read-aloud string, layout information, image file name, audio file name, font designation, drawing color, effect type).

Figure 9 shows an example of a method for generating and playing personalized videos.

The personalized video of the present invention has two layers, and the personalized video D3 is presented to the user by overlapping and synchronously displaying these layers. One layer D1 displays a video provided by the video providing device 230, and the other layer D2 displays user information provided by the user information management device 220. When real-time information is reflected in the personalized video, the real-time information can be displayed on layer D2. Note that layer D2 may use the HTML canvas tag, or may use HTML tags to enable button input and text input.

Fig. 10A shows an example of a process for generating and playing a personalized video based on one base video. This process is an example of a process executed in step S408 of Fig. 4A. This process is executed, for example, by the processor unit 212 included in the user device _210-1 . As described above with reference to Fig. 4A, it is assumed that predetermined user information display plan information indicating at what position and at what timing the user information is to be displayed on the layer D2 shown in Fig. 9 is pre-coded in the base video. Each step shown in Fig. 10A will be described below.

Step SA1001: The current playback position of the playback video is acquired. For example, immediately after playback of a personalized video starts, the playback time of the playback video from 0 seconds to a few seconds (e.g., 1 second, 2 seconds, 3 seconds, 5 seconds, 10 seconds) is acquired.

Step SA1002: One piece of user information is acquired. The acquired user information is one of the pieces of user information provided by the user information providing device 220.

Step SA1003: It is determined whether the playback position of the currently played video is included between the start time and end time of the acquired user information. If the result of this determination is "Yes", the process proceeds to step SA1004, and if the result of this determination is "No", the process proceeds to step SA1005.

Step SA1004: The acquired user information is processed according to the specified user information display plan information that is pre-coded in the base video. For example, if the specified user information display plan information displays "Dear [d1], thank you for using our service." from 1 second to 4 seconds after the start of playback, the acquired user information "Takahashi" is assigned to [d1], thereby processing the acquired user information according to the specified user information display plan information.

Step SA1005: It is determined whether the next playback element exists. If the result of this determination is "Yes", the process returns to step SA1002, and if the result of this determination is "No", the process ends (normal end).

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 4B, it is necessary to reflect real-time information in the personalized video of the embodiment in FIG. 4A. However, in steps SA1001 to SA1005 in FIG. 10A, the real-time information is treated in the same way as user information, thereby achieving the process of generating and playing a personalized video that reflects the real-time information.

Fig. 10B shows an example of a process for generating and playing a personalized video using playback scenario information. This process is an example of a process executed in step S512 of Fig. 5A. This process is executed, for example, by the processor unit 212 included in the user device _210-1 . Each step shown in Fig. 10B will be described below.

Step SB1001: The current playback position of the playback video is obtained. For example, immediately after playback of a personalized video starts, the playback time of the playback video from 0 seconds to several seconds (e.g., 1 second, 2 seconds, 3 seconds, 5 seconds, 10 seconds) is obtained.

Step SB1002: One playback element is obtained from the playback scenario information. The playback element obtained is one of the playback elements identified by the playback element ID included in the attribute setting information 820.

Step SB1003: It is determined whether the playback position of the currently played video is included between the start time and end time of the acquired playback element. If the result of this determination is "Yes", the process proceeds to step SB1004, and if the result of this determination is "No", the process proceeds to step SB1005.

Step SB1004: Processing of the acquired playback element is performed according to the information set in the attribute setting information 820.

Step SB1005: It is determined whether the next playback element exists. If the result of this determination is "Yes", the process returns to step SB1002, and if the result of this determination is "No", the process proceeds to step SB1006.

The series of steps SB1002 to SB1005 are repeated the same number of times per second as the frame rate of the video being played, so that each playback element is processed in sync with the video being played.

Step SB1006: It is determined whether or not there is a next video to be played. If the result of this determination is "Yes", the process returns to step SB1001, and if the result of this determination is "No", the process ends (normal end).

Fig. 11 shows an example of a process of a playback element. This process is an example of a process executed in step S512 of Fig. 5A. This process is executed, for example, by the processor unit 212 included in the user device _210-1 . Each step shown in Fig. 11 will be described below.

Step 1101: The type of playback element is identified. If the type of playback element is identified as "text", processing proceeds to step S1102; if the type of playback element is identified as "image", processing proceeds to step S1103; if the type of playback element is identified as "audio", processing proceeds to step S1104; if the type of playback element is identified as "text utterance", processing proceeds to step S1105; if the type of playback element is identified as "button", processing proceeds to step S1106; if the type of playback element is identified as "text input", processing proceeds to step S1107.

Step S1102: The process of displaying the text is executed.

Step S1103: The process of displaying the image is executed.

Step S1104: The process of playing audio is executed.

Step S1105: The process of speaking the text is executed.

Step S1106: The process to display the button is executed.

Step S1107: A process to display the text input section is executed.

Note that in the example shown in FIG. 11, an example of executing processing for each element type, such as text, image, audio, text speech, button, and text input, is described, but it is also possible to add and process playback elements other than these.

The processing of the playback element in step 408 in FIG. 4A is the same as the series of processing shown in FIG. 11. Furthermore, in addition to the series of processing shown in FIG. 11, the processing of the playback element in step 408' in FIG. 4B includes the following: if the type of the playback element is identified as "real-time information" in step S1101 in FIG. 11, the processing proceeds to step S1108, and processing for displaying the real-time information is executed as step S1108.

Furthermore, the process of generating and playing the personalized video in step 512' in FIG. 5B is similar to the process shown in FIG. 10B, and the process of the playback element in step 512' in FIG. 5B is similar to the process of the playback element in step 408' in FIG. 4B.

5. Other Embodiments The embodiments described below are modifications of the embodiment shown in FIG. 2 in which user information is provided to a user device in a format embedded in video playback page information.

Figure 12 shows an example of the configuration of a computer system 200' for providing personalized videos. Note that among the components shown in Figure 12, the same components as those shown in Figure 2 are given the same reference numbers as those shown in Figure 2, and detailed descriptions thereof will be omitted.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 6A, an example was described in which the user information management device 220 provides user information to the user device in a state in which the user information is embedded in the video playback page information 600a, but in this embodiment, the user information management device 220 does not provide the user information directly to the user device.

The computer system 200' includes at least one user device 210 ₁ to 210 _N , a user information management system, and a video providing device 230 configured to be able to provide one or more base videos. In Fig. 12, the user information management system is represented by a dashed line. The video providing device 230 is connected to a second database unit 250.

The user information management system includes a user information management device 220 configured to be able to provide user information, and a playback page providing device 220' configured to be able to provide video playback page information for displaying a video playback page. The user information management device 220 is connected to a first database unit 240. The playback page providing device 220' is configured not to be accessible from the outside (e.g., the video providing device 230) via the Internet 260. Each of at least one user device 210 ₁ to 210 _N is configured to be able to communicate with the user information management device 220 and the video providing device 230 via the Internet 260.

When the processor unit 212 of the user information management device 220 receives login information from the user device, it authenticates the login and then generates address information (e.g., URL) of the video playback page provided by the playback page providing device 220'. Next, the processor unit 212 of the user information management device 220 acquires user information associated with the login information from the first database unit 240, and adds information corresponding to the acquired user information to the address information as a parameter of the address information. Here, the information corresponding to the user information is a character string obtained by encoding the JSON format data into Base64 (or a character string obtained by encrypting the JSON format data) as described in the script tag 620 of FIG. 6A or FIG. 6B. Next, the processor unit 212 of the user information management device 220 provides the address information of the video playback page to the user device. The manner of providing the address information of the video playback page is arbitrary. The address information of the video playback page may be provided to the user device by email, for example, or a printed matter (e.g., direct mail, billing statement) on which a two-dimensional code (e.g., QR code (registered trademark)) of the address information of the video playback page is printed may be mailed to the user. Next, the user device reads the address information of the video playback page and requests the playback page providing device 220' to provide a video playback page. The playback page providing device 220' returns the information corresponding to the user information to the original user information in JSON format by Base64 decoding (or, if encrypted, decrypting and then Base64 decoding) the information corresponding to the user information, and provides the user information to the user device with the user information embedded in the video playback page.

In the above embodiment, an example has been described in which the playback page providing device 220' decodes the information corresponding to the user information, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the playback page providing device 220' may provide the information corresponding to the user information to the user device using the video playback page information without decoding the information corresponding to the user information, and the user device may decode the information corresponding to the user information.

Figure 13 shows an example of the configuration of a computer system 200'' for providing personalized video. Note that among the components shown in Figure 13, components that are the same as those shown in Figure 2 are given the same reference numbers as those shown in Figure 2, and detailed descriptions thereof will be omitted.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 2, an example was described in which user information is provided from the user information management device 220 to the user device, but in this embodiment, the user information is either input by the user when the personalized video is played for the first time, or is already held by the user device (i.e., stored).

The computer system 200'' includes at least one user device _210.sub.1 to _210.sub.N , a content distribution device 280 configured to be capable of distributing content, and a video providing device 230 configured to be capable of providing one or more base videos. The video providing device 230 is connected to a second database unit 250. Each of the at least one user device _210.sub.1 to _210.sub.N is configured to be capable of communicating with the content distribution device 280 and the video providing device 230 via the Internet 260. The content distribution device 280 provides a website (e.g., a campaign site) that is accessible to an unspecified number of users.

In this embodiment, similarly to the embodiment described with reference to FIG. 2 and the like, the user device is provided with video playback page information from the content distribution device 280, and one or more base videos are provided from the video providing device 230. Note that the video playback page information provided by the content distribution device 280 does not include user information. The user device (more specifically, the program executed in the user device) requests the user to input user information when the personalized video is played for the first time. In this case, the user device stores the input user information in the memory unit 213 so that the user information is automatically reflected in the personalized video when the personalized video is played for the second or subsequent times. Alternatively, the user device may reflect the user information previously stored in the memory unit 213 in the personalized video when the personalized video is played for the first time. In this embodiment, the memory unit 213 is, for example, HTML5 Web Storage that can be used from JavaScript on a web page. Note that the above-mentioned program may be stored in the memory unit 213, or may be recorded in a computer-readable recording medium. The recording medium may be, for example, a portable medium (e.g., a flexible disk, an optical disk, a magneto-optical disk, or a semiconductor memory).

As described above, the present invention has been illustrated using a preferred embodiment of the present invention, but the present invention should not be interpreted as being limited to this embodiment. It is understood that the scope of the present invention should be interpreted only by the claims. It is understood that a person skilled in the art can implement an equivalent scope based on the description of the specific preferred embodiment of the present invention and common technical knowledge from the description of the present invention.

The present invention is useful for providing a computer system for providing personalized video, an information processing device included in the computer system, a program executed on the information processing device, a program executed on a user device included in the computer system, etc.

200 Computer system 210 ₁ to 210 _N user devices 220 User information management device 230 Video providing device 240 First database unit 250 Second database unit 260 Internet

Claims (2)

An information processing device included in a computer system for providing personalized video, the computer system further including a user device used by a user and an information processing device separate from the information processing device;
the information processing device and the separate information processing device are communicatively connected to the user device;
User information indicating personal information of the user is provided from the separate information processing device to the user device;
the user information is used by the user device to generate playback scenario information indicating a playback scenario of a plurality of base moving pictures based at least on the user information, the playback scenario information includes moving picture identification information for identifying the plurality of base moving pictures, and the moving picture identification information does not include personal information of the user;
the video identification information is provided to the information processing device by the user device;
The information processing device includes:
Identifying the plurality of base videos based on the video identification information provided by the user device;
providing the identified plurality of base videos to the user device;
The plurality of base videos, together with the user information, are used to generate and play personalized videos for the user in accordance with the playback scenario information. A program executed in an information processing device included in a computer system for providing personalized video, the computer system further including a user device used by a user and an information processing device separate from the information processing device;
The information processing device includes a processor unit,
the information processing device and the separate information processing device are communicatively connected to the user device;
User information indicating personal information of the user is provided from the separate information processing device to the user device;
the user information is used by the user device to generate playback scenario information indicating a playback scenario of a plurality of base moving pictures based at least on the user information, the playback scenario information includes moving picture identification information for identifying the plurality of base moving pictures, and the moving picture identification information does not include personal information of the user;
the video identification information is provided to the information processing device by the user device;
When the program is executed by the processor unit,
Identifying the plurality of base videos based on the video identification information provided by the user device;
providing the identified plurality of base videos to the user device;
A program, wherein the plurality of base videos, together with the user information, are used to generate and play personalized videos for the user according to the playback scenario information.