CN106454495B

CN106454495B - Information processing apparatus, information processing method, and program

Info

Publication number: CN106454495B
Application number: CN201610837836.6A
Authority: CN
Inventors: 北里直久
Original assignee: Sony Corp
Current assignee: Sony Corp
Priority date: 2010-10-01
Filing date: 2011-09-22
Publication date: 2020-01-17
Anticipated expiration: 2031-09-22
Also published as: CN106454495A

Abstract

The present invention relates to an information processing apparatus, an information processing method, and a program that can provide linked content having various scenes. The control information acquirer acquires control information including an absolute clock time event that occurs as an event for making a transition from a current scenario to another scenario at a specific date and time on a time axis of the scenario. According to the acquired control information, the reproduction controller controls reproduction of the link-type content so that the current scene can be made to transition to another scene if an absolute clock time event occurs. The present technology can be applied to, for example, a content reproduction apparatus that reproduces content.

Description

Information processing apparatus, information processing method, and program

This divisional application is a divisional application of chinese patent application No.201180045980.1 entitled "information processing apparatus, information processing method, and program" filed on 9/22/2011.

Technical Field

The present technology relates to an information processing apparatus, an information processing method, and a program, and particularly relates to an information processing apparatus, an information processing method, and a program that allow providing of linked-type content having various scenes.

Background

Generally, in the case of viewing a broadcast program, a desired broadcast channel is generally selected after viewing a program list. In addition, in stream on demand (streaming) in IPTV (internet protocol television) that has become popular in recent years, normal viewing is performed by selecting content from a content list.

It is recognized that a combination technique of broadcasting and communication is necessary to achieve perfection of a broadcasting service, and various measures for switching services of broadcasting and communication have been proposed so that they cooperate. However, a service that fully utilizes the characteristics of each of them has not been currently implemented.

In addition, for example, in the world of games, a multimedia engine is implemented in a terminal device, and a plurality of streams formed by a plurality of time axes are reproduced by linking through execution of a programming language. If this is also applied to content other than the game, link-type content may be provided.

However, implementing complex multimedia engines is costly. Therefore, for contents that do not require complicated processing like games, high functional expression performance provided by the multimedia engine is not necessary. Thus, for example, PTL 1 discloses a technique in which processing of reproduction, end, and the like of different contents is performed in a reproduction branch screen of a moving image file in accordance with a user operation.

[ list of references ]

[ patent document ]

[PTL 1]

JP 2008-113247A

Disclosure of Invention

[ problem ] to

However, in the technique disclosed in PTL 1, only a user operation for simply causing conversion from one content to another content is defined, and only simple conversion can be achieved. Therefore, a variety of scenarios cannot be provided. Therefore, it is desirable to provide link-type content having a variety of scenes, for example, by using a combination technique of broadcasting and communication.

The present technology has been proposed in view of these circumstances, and allows providing a link-type content having a variety of scenarios.

[ means for solving the problems ]

An information processing apparatus of one aspect of the present technology includes: a content acquirer that acquires a link-type content including a plurality of scenes composed of content data and control information for controlling reproduction of the content data; a control information acquirer that acquires control information; and a reproduction controller which controls reproduction of the link-type content by reproducing the content data according to the control information. The control information acquirer acquires control information including an absolute clock time event that occurs as an event for making a transition from a current scenario to another scenario at a specific date and time on a time axis of the scenario. If an absolute clock time event occurs, the reproduction controller causes the current scenario to transition to another scenario.

The control information acquirer acquires control information including an absolute clock time event occurring only at a time event as an event, the time event being a predetermined time region separated by a start point and an end point on a time axis of a scene, and if the absolute clock time event occurs in the predetermined time region, the reproduction controller causes the current scene to transition to another scene.

The information processing apparatus further includes: a receiver receiving broadcast content broadcast via a broadcast network; and a display controller switching content for displaying a scene that causes a transition from a current scene to another scene from the link-type content to the broadcast content if an absolute clock time event occurs.

The control information acquirer acquires control information including information for identifying broadcast content, and the display controller displays the broadcast content received according to the control information.

The reproduction controller forcibly causes a transition from the current scenario to another scenario if an absolute clock time event occurs.

If an absolute clock time event occurs, the reproduction controller causes a transition from the current scenario to another scenario when a command is issued by a user operation.

The information processing apparatus may be a stand-alone apparatus or may be an internal block configuring one apparatus.

An information processing method or program according to an aspect of the present technology is an information processing method or program corresponding to the information processing apparatus according to an aspect of the present technology.

In an information processing apparatus, an information processing method, and a program of one aspect of the present technology, a link-type content including a plurality of scenes composed of content data and control information for controlling reproduction of the content data is acquired, and reproduction of the link-type content is controlled by reproducing the content data in accordance with the control information. Acquiring control information including an absolute clock time event that occurs at a specific date and time on a time axis of a scenario as an event for making a transition from a current scenario to another scenario; and if an absolute clock time event occurs, causing the current scene to transition to another scene.

[ advantageous effects of the invention ]

According to an aspect of the present technology, it is possible to provide link-type contents having various scenarios.

Drawings

Fig. 1 is a diagram illustrating a difference point between general content and link-type content.

Fig. 2 is a diagram showing a configuration of general content.

Fig. 3 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of link-type content.

Fig. 4 is a diagram illustrating cooperation of broadcast content and link-type content.

Fig. 5 is a diagram showing a configuration example of the content reproduction system.

Fig. 6 is a diagram showing a configuration example of a content reproduction apparatus.

Fig. 7 is a diagram showing a configuration example of the control section.

Fig. 8 is a diagram for explaining components in the link-type content.

Fig. 9 is a diagram showing a configuration example of VSI information.

Fig. 10 is a table showing one example of a detailed description (scenario) of the VSI.

Fig. 11 is a table showing one example of a detailed description (event section) of the VSI.

Fig. 12 is a table showing one example of the detailed description (bridge portion) of the VSI.

Fig. 13 is a table showing one example of a detailed description (branch portion) of the VSI.

Fig. 14 is a diagram for explaining broadcasting scenarios classified according to media types.

Fig. 15 is a diagram for explaining a time event.

Fig. 16 is a diagram for explaining a spatial event.

FIG. 17 is a diagram for explaining spatiotemporal events.

Fig. 18 is a diagram for explaining an absolute clock time event.

Fig. 19 is a diagram for explaining cooperation of link-type contents and broadcast contents.

Fig. 20 is a diagram for explaining an automatic event.

FIG. 21 is a diagram showing one example of a bridge picture.

Fig. 22 is a diagram showing one example of a scenario of content.

Fig. 23 is a sequence diagram showing an operation of an example of the scenario of fig. 22.

Fig. 24 is a flowchart for explaining the link-type content reproduction processing.

Fig. 25 is a flowchart for explaining the link-type content reproduction process.

FIG. 26 is a diagram illustrating one example of a user experience implemented by the content rendering system.

Fig. 27 is a diagram showing a configuration example of a computer.

Detailed Description

Embodiments of the present technology will be described hereinafter with reference to the drawings.

[ comparison between ordinary content and Link-type content ]

First, referring to fig. 1 to 3, common points and difference points between general content and link-type content will be described.

As shown on the left side of fig. 1, the normal content is configured by a stream of a single time axis formed by one start point and one end point. In contrast, as shown on the right side of fig. 1, the link-type content is configured by linking a plurality of streams of a plurality of time axes. In addition, the link-type content includes a plurality of scenes configured by streams of one time axis.

Specifically, as shown in fig. 2, in the case of reproducing general content, the user selects desired content from a content list provided based on an HTML (hypertext markup language) document and thus starts reproduction of the content.

In contrast, as shown in fig. 3, with regard to the link-type content, when the user selects a desired content from the content list provided based on the HTML document, first, VSI (video scenario information) information, which is control information of a scenario reproduced first in the selected content, is acquired. Then, the content data is reproduced based on this VSI information. For example, even in the case of the link from the scenario S1 to the scenario S2, the location of the VSI information of the scenario S2 described in the VSI information of the scenario S1 is referred to, and the VSI information of the scenario S2 is acquired. Then, the content data of the scenario S2 is acquired from the VSI information of this scenario S2, and the content data is reproduced.

As above, one scenario is composed of one content data and VSI information (i.e., control information for controlling reproduction of the content data). Details of the VSI information and the like will be described later.

[ collaboration of Link-type content and broadcast content ]

The above-described link-type content cooperates with broadcast content of a program, CM, or the like to thereby become able to provide a wide variety of scenes.

As shown in fig. 4, broadcast content of a program or the like is broadcast by a broadcast stream in which a plurality of streams are multiplexed on a channel-by-channel basis. For example, by linking a certain program with a link-type content subjected to streaming reproduction via the internet, conversion to a link-destination program can occur in reproduction of the link-type content, and viewing of the program is enabled. In addition, conversely, a transition to the start timing of the link-type content may occur in the middle of the program, and reproduction of the link-type content may be started.

In this way, by linking broadcast content and link-type content using a combined broadcast and communication technique and making them cooperate and switchable with each other, it becomes possible to cause not only a transition to streaming reproduction content but also a transition to broadcast content, thereby enabling a wide variety of link-type content to be provided.

[ example of configuration of content reproduction System ]

Next, with reference to fig. 5 to 7, a content reproduction system capable of reproducing link-type content that can cooperate with broadcast content will be described.

The content reproduction system 1 is composed of: a content reproduction apparatus 11, a Web server 12, a VSI server 13, a content server 14, and a broadcast apparatus 15.

The content reproduction apparatus 11 is, for example, an information processing apparatus such as a personal computer, a television receiver, a home video processing apparatus represented by a DVD recorder, a portable information terminal (PDA: personal digital assistant), a cellular phone, a home or portable music reproduction apparatus, or a home or portable game machine.

The content reproduction apparatus 11 may exist as a single apparatus, or may be incorporated into, for example, a television receiver or a home video processing apparatus.

The content reproduction apparatus 11 is connected to the Web server 12, the VSI server 13, and the content server 14 via the communication network 21, and requests these servers to transmit various information to acquire information according to the request. The content reproduction apparatus 11 reproduces content data of a link-type content acquired via the communication network 21.

In addition, the content reproduction apparatus 11 includes a tuner. It receives a digital television broadcast signal broadcast from the broadcasting apparatus 15 via the broadcast network 22 to display video corresponding to content data of broadcast content obtained from the broadcast signal and output audio thereof.

The Web server 12 is a dedicated server that provides a screen of a list of contents reproduced by the content reproduction apparatus 11 or the like. The Web server 12 is connected to the content reproduction apparatus 11 via the communication network 21, and generates a screen including a list of contents provided by the content server 14 in response to a request from the content reproduction apparatus 11 to provide it to the content reproduction apparatus 11.

The VSI server 13 is a dedicated server that provides VSI information, which is context-by-context control information owned by link-type content. The VSI server 13 is connected to the content reproduction apparatus 11 via the communication network 21, and provides VSI information in response to a request from the content reproduction apparatus 11.

The content server 14 is a dedicated server that provides content data of a corresponding scene included in the link-type content. The content server 14 is connected to the content reproduction apparatus 11 via the communication network 21, and provides content data in response to a request from the content reproduction apparatus 11.

The broadcaster 15 is configured to transmit digital television broadcast signals via a broadcast network 22, for example a terrestrial digital broadcast network. Broadcast contents of programs, CMs, and the like are broadcast by the digital television broadcast signal.

The content reproduction system 1 is configured in the above-described manner.

[ example of configuration of content reproduction apparatus ]

Fig. 6 is a diagram showing a configuration example of the content reproduction apparatus in fig. 5.

The content reproduction apparatus 11 is composed of: a communication I/F31, a reproduction section 32, a control section 33, an operation section 34, a selector 35, a tuner 36, a demultiplexer 37, a video decoder 38, an audio decoder 39, a display section 40, and a speaker 41.

The communication I/F31 is connected to the Web server 12, the VSI server 13, or the content server 14 via the communication network 21, and receives a list screen of contents, VSI information, or content data according to control from the control section 33. The communication I/F31 supplies content data of the received data to the reproduction section 32, and supplies a list screen of the content and VSI information to the control section 33.

The reproduction section 32 is connected to the content server 14 via the communication I/F31 and the communication network 21, and requests streaming delivery of content data of the link-type content according to control from the control section 33. The reproduction section 32 performs a predetermined process for reproducing the link-type content with respect to the content data supplied from the communication I/F31, and supplies the resultant video signal and audio signal to the selector 35.

The control section 33 controls the operation of the corresponding section of the content reproduction apparatus 11.

The control section 33 controls the reproduction section 32 based on the VSI information supplied from the communication I/F31. In addition, the control section 33 controls the selector 35 according to the VSI information.

In addition, the control section 33 supplies a list screen of the contents supplied from the communication I/F31 to the selector 35.

Details of the control section 33 will be described later.

The operation section 34 supplies an operation signal according to a user operation to the control section 33. The control section 33 controls the operation of the corresponding section of the content reproduction apparatus 11 in response to the operation signal supplied from the operation section 34. In the case of using an input device (not shown) such as a remote controller, an operation signal from the input device other than the operation section 34 is supplied to the control section 33.

The tuner 36 receives and demodulates a digital television broadcast signal corresponding to a channel or VSI information according to channel selection by a user, and supplies the resulting multiplexed stream to the demultiplexer 37 according to control from the control section 33.

The demultiplexer 37 separates the audio encoded signal and the video encoded signal from the multiplexed stream supplied from the tuner 36, and supplies the video encoded signal and the audio encoded signal to the video decoder 38 and the audio decoder 39, respectively.

The video decoder 38 decodes the video encoded signal supplied from the demultiplexer 37 and supplies the resultant video signal to the selector 35.

The audio decoder 39 decodes the audio encoded signal supplied from the demultiplexer 37 and supplies the resultant audio signal to the selector 35.

The video signal and the audio signal from the reproduction section 32, the video signal from the video decoder 38, and the audio signal from the audio decoder 39 are supplied to the selector 35.

The selector 35 supplies a video signal, which is any one of the video signal from the reproduction section 32 and the video signal from the video decoder 38, to the display section 40 according to control from the control section 33. In addition, the selector 35 supplies an audio signal, which is any one of the audio signal from the reproduction section 32 and the audio signal from the audio decoder 39, to the speaker 41 according to the control from the control section 33.

The display section 40 displays a video corresponding to the video signal supplied from the selector 35.

The speaker 41 outputs audio corresponding to the audio signal supplied from the selector 35.

The content reproduction apparatus 11 is configured in the above-described manner.

[ example of configuration of control section ]

Fig. 7 is a diagram showing a configuration example of the control section in fig. 6.

The control section 33 is composed of: a control information acquirer 51, a reproduction controller 52, and a display controller 53.

The control information acquirer 51 acquires the VSI information supplied from the communication I/F31, and supplies it to the reproduction controller 52 and the display controller 53. Specifically, first, the control information acquirer 51 acquires VSI information corresponding to the link-type content according to the user operation based on the operation signal supplied from the operation section 34. Then, the control information acquirer 51 acquires VSI information of a scenario specified according to the VSI information.

In the case of transition to another scenario by an automatic event, the control information acquirer 51 automatically acquires VSI information of a scenario specified by the VSI information. On the other hand, if the event is not an automatic event, when the user designates a scenario by using the operation section 34 or the input device, the control information acquirer 51 acquires VSI information corresponding to the designated scenario. An automatic event will be described later as a kind of event.

The reproduction controller 52 controls the reproduction section 32 according to the VSI information supplied from the control information acquirer 51 to thereby control reproduction of the link-type content.

The display controller 53 controls the selector 35 according to the VSI information supplied from the control information acquirer 51. Specifically, when the display section 40 is caused to display the link-type content, the display controller 53 switches the input destination of the selector 35 to the side of the reproduction section 32, and when the display section 40 is caused to display the broadcast content, switches the input destination of the selector 35 to the side of the video decoder 38 and the audio decoder 39. In addition, in the case of displaying broadcast content, the display controller 53 controls the tuner 36 to select a channel according to the VSI information.

In addition, the display controller 53 controls screen display of the display section 40. For example, based on an operation signal supplied from the operation section 34, the display controller 53 controls the communication I/F31 via the control information acquirer 51 to connect to the Web server 12 via the communication network 21 and acquire a list screen of reproducible content. The display controller 43 supplies the list screen of the acquired content to the selector 35, and causes the display section 40 to display it.

The control section 33 is configured in the above-described manner.

The VSI client 50 to be described later is configured by the control information acquirer 51 and the reproduction controller 52.

[ detailed configuration of Linked Contents ]

Next, with reference to fig. 8 to 21, a detailed configuration of the link-type content that is reproduced by the content reproduction apparatus 11 and can cooperate with the broadcast content will be described.

[ definition of terms ]

Terms of the components in the link-type contents will be defined with reference to fig. 8.

As shown in fig. 8, a scene (scene) is a part of link-type contents that exists along a time axis and is normally a stream. A scenario is composed of one content file and one VSI file, which is a metadata file of the content file and in which VSI information is described. The link-type contents of fig. 8 are composed of: eleven scenes ranging from one start point to a plurality of end points TS1 to TS5, LS1 to LS4, CS1, and CS 2.

Scenes included in the link-type content are classified into three types, i.e., a loop scene, a connection scene, and a termination scene, mainly according to behavior at the end of the scene. As shown in a loop scene LS in fig. 8, the loop scene refers to a scene that transitions from a certain timing of the scene and returns to a transition point of the same scene again when reproduction of the scene ends.

In addition, as shown by a connection scenario CS in fig. 8, the connection scenario is a scenario that transitions to a scenario different from the transition source or a scenario of the transition source transitioning to a different time position when reproduction of the scenario ends.

In addition, as shown in the termination scenario TS in fig. 8, the termination scenario is a scenario in which the reproduction of the link-type content is terminated when the scenario reproduction is terminated.

As above, a scene represents one reproduction unit reproduced with a single time axis.

An Event (Event) shows a local region of time and space of a scene and serves as a link for transitioning to another scene. It is a temporal position (temporal range) or a spatial position (spatial range) specified in a scene, and enables transition to another scene. In the link-type content of fig. 8, a plurality of events are specified in the middle of a scene in the range from one start point to a plurality of end points, and a transition is made from the current scene to another scene by the occurrence of the events.

The Bridge (Bridge) is a UI (user interface) at the time of scene branching. In the bridge, an operation of user confirmation as to whether or not to make a transition to another scene, selection in the case where a plurality of scenes are linked, and the like are included, and designation of display of the entire screen. As shown by enlarging a part of the link-type content of fig. 8, when an event occurs in the middle of the termination scenario TS1, a bridge screen to the termination scenario TS5 is displayed, and if the termination scenario TS5 is specified by a user operation, a transition is made from the termination scenario TS1 to the termination scenario TS 5.

A Branch (Branch) indicates a scene of a transition destination regarding the relevant scene. In the link-type content of fig. 8, for example, the scenes TS2, TS3, TS4, and TS5 are branch scenes from the viewpoint of the scene TS 1. In addition, LS1, CS1, and LS2 are branch scenes from the perspective of TS2, and TS2 is a branch scene from the perspective of TS 1.

[ example of configuration of VSI information ]

Next, details of the VSI information will be described. As described above, the link-type content is configured to include a plurality of scenarios composed of content data and VSI information, which is control information related to reproduction of the content data. Here, as shown in fig. 9, VSI information is created on a scenario-by-scenario basis and provided in the format of, for example, an XML (extensible markup language) document.

The VSI information includes information required for activating reproduction of a relevant scenario (URL (uniform resource locator) of content data of the relevant scenario, etc.), a plurality of event elements related to an event for switching from a current scenario to another scenario, a token (token) element for user authentication, etc.

The event elements include at least one of a temporal range and a spatial range in which a transition to a branch scenario is valid, a bridge element related to a bridge defining a user interface for transitioning to another scenario, and one or more branch elements related to a branch indicating another scenario.

The bridge element includes information defining a UI when the scene branches.

The branch element includes information (for example, URL of VSI information of the branch scenario) necessary for transition to the branch scenario branching from the relevant scenario. VSI information for branch scenarios also includes similar information. For example, the VSI information of the branch scenario may include information for making a transition to a branch scenario that branches further from the branch scenario.

Here, detailed descriptions of the VSI information are shown in fig. 10 to 13. Fig. 10 is a table showing the entire specification of VSI information.

The VSI information is established on a scenario-by-scenario basis and mainly includes metadata about a scenario, event elements related to branch events included in the scenario, and token elements.

As the metadata about the scenario, for example, information for identifying the scenario, information for distinguishing a service operator providing the scenario, information for identifying content data of the scenario, or information about a media type of the scenario is included. By giving information on the media type of a scene, the information on the media type is referred to and reproduction is controlled in the content reproduction apparatus 11, and the content reproduction apparatus 11 becomes compatible with a plurality of media types.

In addition, event elements included in the scenario are further defined by the specification shown in fig. 11. The event elements include metadata about an event, a bridge element used in the event, and a branch element related to a branch scenario to which a transition can be made from the event.

A more detailed illustration of the bridge elements included in the event elements is shown in fig. 12. The bridge element is information that defines the user interface at the time of event activation. Therefore, information necessary for displaying the bridge picture is included therein.

In addition, a more detailed description of the branch elements included in the event element is shown in fig. 13. One or more branch elements are included in the event element. In addition, information on the media type of the scene and the like is included in the branch element. By giving information on the media type of the scene, the media type of the scene of the branch destination can be specified.

Although it is assumed that information on a font size, a font type, a font color, and the like, which relate to each branch in the bridge screen, is included in the bridge element, the configuration is not limited thereto, and for example, such information may be included in the respective branch elements.

[ type of scene ]

Next, the type of scene included in the link-type content reproduced in the content reproduction apparatus 11 will be described.

The link-type content reproduced in the content reproduction apparatus 11 is configured by basically linking a plurality of scenes. At this time, as content data of the corresponding scene, for example, a moving image, a still image, a slide show, an application, and a broadcast are used.

Reproduction of one scene continues from the start of reproduction of content data of the scene to branching, stopping, or ending of the content data. As the operation of the remote controller in scene reproduction, for example, a stop operation, an input operation, a pause operation, an FF operation, an FR operation, a skip operation, and a play operation are taken.

The stop operation is an operation for stopping reproduction. When the stop operation is performed, the reproduction of the link-type content is stopped, and the screen returns to the screen displayed before the activation of the link-type content.

The input operation is performed to check, for example, a scenario branch in an event topic time range (or spatial range). When an input operation is performed in the event topic time range or the spatial range, a bridge screen is displayed.

The pause operation, FF operation, and FR operation are similar to those in ordinary content reproduction. That is, when the pause operation is performed, the reproduction of the content currently reproduced is suspended. In addition, the FF operation and the FR operation are options. If the content is compatible with the FF operation and the FR operation, the content under reproduction is fast-forwarded when the FF operation is performed, and the content under reproduction is rewound when the FR operation is performed.

When a jump operation is performed in content reproduction, the content jumps to a scene of the start timing of the next event. The play operation is for resuming from a pause operation in scene reproduction.

In addition, as described above, the content data of a scene is classified based on media types, for example, using moving images, still images, slideshows, applications, and broadcasts.

The moving image scene is configured by moving image contents based on a moving image and audio. At this time, the moving image corresponds to at least one of 2D (dimensional) content and 3D content.

In addition, in reproduction of a moving image scene, it is desirable to escape from the scene by, for example, shifting to the original scene or the end of the link-type content after the last picture of the moving image is displayed. Further, if an event is specified by the VSI information, a bridge screen of another scenario specified is displayed by performing an input operation in a subject time of the event (or in a subject space).

The still image scene is a scene configured by one still image based on a format such as JPEG (joint photographic experts group). When a still image scene is reproduced, a still image is displayed as content data on the entire screen of the display section 40. The still image scene can be applied to all the link type scenes, although the classification of the link type based on the scene will be described later. In the case of a still image scene, the scene is left when the user performs an input operation in scene reproduction. In addition, if an event is specified in the VSI information of the still image scene, a bridge screen for another scene specified is displayed through an input operation performed by the user.

A slide scene is configured by one or more still images. When the slide scene is reproduced, a still image is displayed as content data on the entire screen of the display section 40. Then, the display of the respective still images is sequentially switched at a time interval designated in advance. When the last still image included in the slide content data is displayed, the reproduction of the scene is ended by, for example, returning to the original scene or the end of the link-type content.

In addition, the application scenario is a scenario configured by an application. Examples of the application used herein include a Widget application and a Java (registered trademark) application.

The broadcast scene is configured by broadcast content received from the broadcasting apparatus 15 via the broadcast network 22, and is defined only as a branch scene. When branching to the broadcast scene is caused, the broadcast content is displayed on the display section 40.

As shown in fig. 14, the broadcast scenario is defined by a branch element of the VSI information. Specifically, in the VSI information, a URI (uniform resource identifier) about a broadcast is described in a location (location) attribute of a login (entry) element of a branch element of fig. 13, and thus a specific channel is specified. The URI starts with a schema such as "dvb" or "arib" and indicates the resource based on a schema-by-schema defined format, e.g. after a delimiter by colon.

In branching to a broadcast scenario, for example, after selecting and displaying broadcast content of a specific channel, it is desirable to leave the relevant scenario by, for example, ending of link-type content.

[ types of events ]

Next, the type of event will be described with reference to fig. 15 to 20.

Events are classified into five types, i.e., temporal events, spatial events, spatio-temporal events, absolute clock time-time events. In addition, although basically an event is used to cause a transition to another scenario within an area defined on the basis of time or space by an operation performed by a user, an automatic event that automatically causes a scenario transition regardless of a user operation is also defined.

First, a time event refers to a certain time region separated by a start point and an end point on a time axis of a scene. In a VSI, a time event is defined by a start point and an end point. For example, as shown in fig. 15, if the link to the scenario S2 is set at event 1, when the user performs an input operation in the reproduction of the scenario S1, it is determined whether the timing at which the user performs the input operation is in the event process (leg) specified by the VSI. Then, if it is determined that the timing is in the course of the event specified by the VSI, the bridge screen specified by the VSI information is displayed. Then, scene reproduction of another scene S2 specified by the user operation is performed.

A spatial event is an event indicated by an area on the screen space of a scene. In the VSI information, a spatial event is defined by the upper left coordinate and the lower right coordinate of a rectangular area. The spatial event is mainly used when the scene is a still image scene. Alternatively, in the case of a moving image scene, when an event is valid throughout the time course of the scene, the event is referred to as a spatial event. For example, as shown in fig. 16, two events, event 1 and event 2, are defined in the still image scene S1. When the user performs an input operation in the reproduction of this still image scenario S1, it is determined whether the cursor position at that timing is within the rectangular area of the event defined by the VSI. Then, if it is determined that the cursor position is within the event area, a bridge screen specified by the VSI is displayed. Then, if a scene is specified by a user operation here, reproduction of another scene S2 specified by the user operation starts.

The spatiotemporal event is an event indicated by a rectangular region on the screen space in time on the time axis of the scene. In the VSI, a spatiotemporal event is defined by a combination of a start point and an end point on a time axis and upper-left and lower-right coordinates of a rectangular region on a screen. Spatiotemporal events are only valid in the case of motion picture scenarios, which involve the notion of time and space. In fig. 17, the spatiotemporal events in scenario S1 are shown: event 1 and event 2. When the user performs an input operation in the reproduction of this scenario S1, it is determined whether the timing at which the user performs the input operation is within the time range of the event defined by the VSI, and it is determined whether the cursor position at the timing is within the spatial range of the event defined by the VSI. Then, if it is determined that they are within the event range, a bridge screen specified by the VSI is displayed. Then, if a scene is specified by a user operation here, reproduction of another scene S2 specified by the user operation starts.

In addition, for example, when a spatial event or a spatiotemporal event is recognized in the VSI information, a cursor may be displayed on the display screen. Although the method for displaying the cursor depends on the embodiment, it is configured such that the cursor can be moved on the screen by, for example, the up/down/left/right keys of the operation portion 34 or the input device such as a remote controller, or the like.

An absolute clock time event is an event that occurs at a specific date and time set in advance independently of the progress of a scenario. For example, as shown in FIG. 18, if "2010/5/1213: 55" is set in the start _ time attribute and "2010/5/1214: 00" is set in the end _ time attribute of the absolute _ timeframe element of the event element of FIG. 11, a time-time event 1 occurs within 5 minutes of 13:55 to 14:00 of 2010/5/12. In this case, when the user performs the input operation in the reproduction of the scenario S1, it is determined whether the timing at which the user performs the input operation is within the time range from 2010/5/1213:55 to 2010/5/1214: 00. If it is determined that the timing is within the time range, the bridge picture is displayed. Then, if a scene is specified by a user operation here, reproduction of another scene S2 specified by the user operation starts.

At this time, for example, a broadcast scene may be employed as the branch destination scene S2 to which the transition is made from the scene S1. Specifically, as shown in fig. 19, in the case where an absolute clock time event occurs in the middle of a scene, when a broadcast content of an arbitrary channel is selected from a bridge screen, the display is switched from a link-type content to a broadcast content, so that the broadcast content is displayed. The broadcast content displayed here may be broadcast content of a specific channel that is broadcast at the switching timing, or may be broadcast content that is broadcast at a certain clock time. In addition, when it is desired to switch the content to the broadcast content at the start timing of a certain program, an absolute clock time event is caused to occur immediately before the start clock time of the broadcast program.

An absolute clock time-time event is an absolute clock time event that occurs only at a time event, which is a predetermined time region separated by a start point and an end point on the time axis of a scene. In other words, it can also be said that an absolute clock time-time event is an event that occurs if an AND (AND) condition of a time event AND an absolute clock time event is satisfied. For example, in the case of fig. 18, if the current time is outside the range of the time region defined by the time event, the absolute clock time-time event does not occur, and the absolute clock time-time event is separated by the start point and the end point on the time axis of the scenario (although in the time range from 2010/5/1213:55 to 2010/5/1214: 00). Specifically, for example, the following scenario can be realized. When the user is located at a certain position in the studio in the virtual space and the current time becomes a specific clock time, e.g. the program start clock time, an absolute clock time-time event occurs and the user is guided to the cinema located behind the studio.

In this way, by the absolute clock time-time event, when the current time becomes a specific clock time, it is possible to cause the event to occur in a specific scene independently of the progress of the scene.

In the above, the explanation is made mainly on an event for making a transition to another scenario by a user operation with respect to a time event, a spatial event, a spatiotemporal event, an absolute clock time event, and an absolute clock time-time event. However, as the event, not only an event that causes a transition to another scenario by a user operation but also an automatic event that automatically causes a transition to another scenario is defined. Next, the automatic event will be described.

An automatic event is an event that automatically causes a transition to another scenario regardless of user operation. If the auto event is defined by the VSI, when it is recognized that the current time has come within the time range defined by the auto event, the reproduction of the relevant scene is automatically stopped regardless of the user operation, and the bridge screen is displayed so as to make a transition to another scene.

For example, event 1 as an automatic event is defined in the scenario S1 shown in fig. 20. When it is recognized in the reproduction of the scenario S1 that the current time has entered the range of the event 1 defined by the VSI information of the scenario S1, the bridge screen defined by the VSI information is displayed, and then the reproduction of the scenario S2 automatically starts.

Such an auto event 1 is used, for example, when it is desired to replace a moving image after a certain timing in the scenario S1. In addition, for example, a broadcast scenario may be used as a scenario of a branch destination of an automatic event. In this case, for example, the following scenario can be realized. Specifically, when the user is located at a certain specific position in the studio in the virtual space and the current time becomes a specific clock time such as a program start clock time, an absolute clock time-time event occurs, and in addition, the user is forcibly guided to a theater located behind the studio by an automatic event. Then, viewing of the broadcast content is started at the subsequent cinema.

[ mode of bridge Circuit ]

Next, a bridge included in the event element will be described with reference to fig. 21. FIG. 21 is a diagram illustrating one example of a bridge.

The bridge is the UI at scenario branching, defining the bridge elements in the VSI information on an event-by-event basis. In addition, the bridge element defines a screen when a scene branch is provided when the user performs an input operation within an event range or when the current time comes within the event range at the auto event.

For example, in the example of fig. 21, when the user performs an input operation in the event screen 182 that is within the event range while the content data of the scene S1 as the base scene is reproduced, the first bridge screen 184 defined by the bridge element is displayed.

In the first bridge screen 184 in fig. 21, two options, that is, an option for making a transition to one branch scene S2 and an option for returning to the original base scene are displayed in the screen configuration defined by the bridge elements and including the UI operated by the user. Here, if the user selects an option for conversion to the branch scenario S2 by an input operation, the second bridge screen 186 obtained by deleting only the UI of the option is displayed. Then, when the setting for starting the reproduction of the branch scenario S2 is completed, the reproduction of the branch scenario S2 is started, and the branch scenario start screen 188 is displayed.

[ operation example of content reproduction System ]

Fig. 22 is an explanatory diagram showing one example of the link-type content. Fig. 23 is a sequence diagram showing one example of a reproduction operation of the link-type content of fig. 22.

The link-type content shown in fig. 22 has a termination scenario TS1 and a loop scenario LS1 as base scenarios, and the loop scenario LS1 branches from an event at a certain timing of the termination scenario TS 1. The content data and the VSI information of the termination scenario TS1 and the content data and the VSI information of the loop scenario LS1 are provided from the VSI server 13 different from each other and the content server 14 different from each other.

First, the display controller 53 of the content reproduction apparatus 11 requests the Web server 12 to transmit a content list screen (S101). Subsequently, in response to a request from the content reproduction apparatus 11, the Web server 12 provides an HTML document including a content list (S102). Here, if the user 300 referring to the provided content list screen performs an operation of selecting a link-type content from the content list (S103), the display controller 53 activates the function of the VSI client 50 (S104). As described above, the VSI client 50 is a concept including the functions of the control information acquirer 51 and the reproduction controller 52 in fig. 7.

Then, in response to the request from the display controller 53, the VSI client 50 requests the VSI server 13A to transmit VSI information corresponding to the link-type content specified by the user 300 (S105). The VSI server 13A requested to transmit the VSI information from the VSI client 50 transmits the VSI information corresponding to the scenario TS1 of the first reproduction of the link-type content described in the request message (S106). Then, the VSI client 50 that received the VSI information analyzes the received VSI information (S107). In the VSI information, information indicating where content data of a relevant scene is stored is described. The VSI client 50 inputs the stream reproduction request to the reproduction section 32 together with information on the storage location of the content data (S108).

The reproduction section 32 requests the content server 14A to activate streaming based on the information received from the VSI client 50 (S109). In response to the request for streaming activation, the content server 14A starts streaming delivery of content data corresponding to the specified scenario TS1 (S110). In addition, if the user 300 performs an input operation in the middle of reproduction of the scenario TS1 delivered by the streaming (S111), the VSI client 50 controls display of a bridge screen based on the bridge element included in the VSI information (S112). Here, in the bridge screen, an option for switching to the loop scene LS1 as the branch scene and an option for returning to the termination scene TS1 as the original base scene are displayed.

If the user 300 performs an operation of selecting a branch scenario on the bridge screen (S113), the VSI client 50 requests the VSI server 13B to transmit VSI information corresponding to the loop scenario LS1, which is the branch scenario selected by the user 300 (S114). In response to the message requesting the VSI information, the VSI server 13B transmits the VSI information corresponding to the specified scenario LS1 to the VSI client 50.

The VSI client 50 that receives the VSI information analyzes the received VSI information (S116). Then, the VSI client 50 acquires the storage location of the content data of the loop scenario LS1 as a branch scenario from the VSI information, and inputs a stream reproduction request to the reproduction section 32 together with information on the storage location of the content data (S117). At this time, the VSI client 50 holds information on the switching timing and VSI information of the base scenario TS 1. In response to the reproduction request, the reproduction section 32 sends a request for streaming activation of the loop scenario LS1 to the content server 14B (S118).

The content server 14B that has received the streaming activation request starts streaming of the specified scenario LS1 (S119). When the reproduction of the scenario LS1 ends, the VSI client 50 automatically starts the reproduction of the original base scenario TS 1. Specifically, by using the held information on the transition timing and the VSI information of the base scenario TS1, the VSI client 50 controls the reproduction section 32 to resume the reproduction of the base scenario TS1 from the transition timing (S120).

In the example of fig. 23, the VSI client 50 holds the VSI information itself of the base scenario TS 1. Therefore, after the reproduction of the loop scene LS1 as the branch scene ends, the VSI client 50 can resume the reproduction of the base scene TS1 without acquiring the VSI information again. In contrast, it is also possible that, depending on the performance of the content reproduction apparatus 11, the VSI client 50 holds only information about the storage location of the VSI information. In this case, the VSI client 50 acquires the VSI information again based on the held information on the storage location, and can resume the reproduction of the base scenario TS 1.

According to the control of the VSI client 50, the reproduction section 32 requests the content server 14A to activate streaming of content data from the conversion timing of the base scenario TS1 (S121). Then, in response to the request, the content server 14A resumes the streaming delivery of the base scenario TS1 (S122).

The operation of the content reproduction system 1 for one example of the link-type content shown in fig. 23 is described above. Next, the operation of the content reproduction apparatus 11 will be described with reference to fig. 24 and 25. Fig. 24 and 25 are flowcharts showing the operation of the content reproduction apparatus.

The operation of the flowchart of fig. 24 is started by starting reproduction of the link-type content by an operation of the user. When the reproduction of the link-type content is commanded, the VSI client 50 of the content reproduction apparatus 11 acquires the VSI information from the specified URL (S201). Then, the VSI client 50 analyzes the VSI information acquired by the VSI client 50 (S202).

In step S203, the VSI client 50 determines the media type of the scenario based on the VSI information. As described above, the media type of the relevant scenario is described in the VSI information. Here, it is assumed that media types of scenes are five types, i.e., an application (App), a Still image (Still), a Slide show (Slide), a moving image (Video), and a Broadcast (Broadcast).

If it is determined in step S203 that the media type of the scenario is an application, the process advances to step S204. In step S204, the VSI client 50 executes the target application. When the media type of the scenario is an application, the reproduction of the link-type content ends at the end of the execution of the application because it is defined that the type of the scenario is a termination scenario.

If it is determined in step S203 that the media type of the scene is a still image, the process advances to step S205. In step S205, the VSI client 50 displays the target scene still image.

If it is determined in step S203 that the media type of the scene is a slideshow, the process advances to step S206. In step S206, the VSI client 50 activates display of the target scenario slide.

If it is determined in step S203 that the media type of the scene is a moving image, the process advances to step S207. In step S207, the VSI client 50 activates reproduction of the target scenario stream transmission. At this time, the VSI client 50 starts streaming reproduction from a specified time position depending on the situation.

If it is determined in step S203 that the media type of the scene is broadcast, the process advances to step S208. In step S208, the display controller 53 controls the tuner 36 to select a channel corresponding to the URI described in the Location attribute of the entry element of the branch element. Thereby, the video signal and the audio signal corresponding to the channel selected by the tuner 36 are input to the selector 35. In addition, the display controller 53 controls the selector 35 to switch the input destination of the selector 35 from the reproduction section 32 side to the video decoder 38 and audio decoder 39 side. Thereby, a video corresponding to the broadcast content of the specified channel is displayed on the display section 40, and the audio thereof is output from the speaker 41.

As described above, the broadcast scene is defined only as a branch scene. In addition, in branching to a broadcast scenario, for example, it is desirable to leave the relevant scenario by, for example, ending of a link-type content after selecting and displaying broadcast content of a specific channel.

When reproduction of a still image, a slide show, or a moving image is started in step S205, S206, or S207, respectively, the process advances to step S209. In step S209, the VSI client 50 determines whether the user 300 has performed the up/down/left/right key operation by using the operation portion 34, the input device, or the like. If it is determined in step S209 that the up/down/left/right key operation is performed, the display controller 53 displays the cursor and moves the cursor position according to the key operation (S210). Upon the end of the processing of step S210, the processing returns to step S209, and the processing of step S209 and subsequent steps is executed.

Then, if it is determined in step S209 that the up/down/left/right key operation is not performed, the process proceeds to step S211. In step S211, the VSI client 50 determines whether or not the decision key operation is performed. If it is determined in step S211 that the decision key operation is performed, it is determined whether the decision key operation is performed in the topic event (S212).

As the subject event, the above-described time event, space event, spatio-temporal event, absolute clock time event, and absolute clock time-time event correspond thereto. In the case of an automatic event, a transition to another scenario is automatically caused regardless of user operation.

If it is determined in step S212 that the decision key operation is not performed in the subject event, the process returns to the determination of step S216 again. In contrast, if it is determined in step S212 that the decision key operation is performed in the subject event, the process proceeds to step S215 in fig. 25.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S211 that the decision key operation is not performed, then the VSI client 50 determines whether the scenario ends (S213). If it is determined in step S213 that the scene is not ended, the process returns to the determination process of step S209. That is, the processing of steps S209 to S213 is repeated until the decision key operation is performed in the theme event or the reproduction of the scenario ends.

Then, if the VSI client 50 determines in step S213 that the reproduction of the scenario ends, the process advances to step S214. In step S214, the VSI client 50 determines whether the current situation is a link-type content end situation. Specifically, the linked content ending case is a case where a scene under reproduction is an ending scene.

If it is determined in step S214 that the current situation is the link-type content end situation, the reproduction of the link-type content ends. In contrast, if it is determined in step S214 that the current situation is not the link-type content end situation, the process proceeds to step S215 in fig. 25.

In step S215, the VSI client 50 displays the bridge. Here, the VSI client 50 determines whether the scenario reproduced up to the timing is a loop scenario and whether the reproduction of the loop scenario is ended (S216). If it is determined in step S216 that the scenario end is the end of the loop scenario, the VSI client 50 specifies the resume position (i.e., the transition timing) and the VSI URL of the scenario of the return destination (S217), and the process advances to step S227.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S216 that the scene end is not the end of the loop scene, the VSI client 50 next determines whether the Bridge displayed in step S215 is a direct Bridge (Immediate Bridge) (S218). The determination processing is performed based on the bridge elements of the bridge displayed in step S215.

If it is determined in step S218 that the bridge displayed in step S215 is a direct bridge, the process advances to step S225. In contrast, if it is determined in step S218 that the bridge displayed in step S215 is not a direct bridge, then the VSI client 50 determines whether the user has performed the up/down key operation by using the operation section 34 or the input device (S219). Then, if it is determined in step S219 that the up/down key operation is performed, the display controller 53 moves the cursor according to the up/down key operation (S220). In contrast, if it is determined in step S219 that the up/down key operation is not performed, the process advances to step S221. In step S221, the VSI client 50 determines whether or not the decision key operation is performed.

If it is determined in step S221 that the decision key operation is not performed, the process returns to the process of step S219. In contrast, if it is determined in step S221 that the decision key operation is performed, the process proceeds to step S222. In step S222, the VSI client 50 determines whether the selected option is an option for returning to the original scenario.

If it is determined in step S222 that the selected option is an option for returning to the original scenario, the process returns to the operation of step S203 in fig. 24. In contrast, if it is determined in step S222 that the selected option is not an option for returning to the original scenario, the process advances to step S223. In step S223, the VSI client 50 determines whether the scenario of the conversion destination is a loop scenario.

If it is determined in step S223 that the scenario of the conversion destination is not the loop scenario, the VSI client 50 releases the VSI information (S224). In contrast, if it is determined in step S223 that the scenario of the conversion destination is the loop scenario, the VSI client 50 holds the VSI URL of the scenario reproduced at the current timing and the resume information (S225).

Then, the VSI client 50 specifies the VSI URL and the streaming start position of the scenario of the conversion destination, and verifies the token and sets the token as the VSI URL (S227). Upon completion of step S227, the process advances to step S201.

This is the end of the description of the link-type content reproduction process.

According to the link-type content reproduction processing described above, the content of any one of a moving image, a still image, a slideshow, an application, and a broadcast can be displayed according to the media type of a scene. In addition, when any one event of a time event, a spatial event, a spatiotemporal event, an absolute clock time event, and an absolute clock time-time event occurs, it is possible to cause a scenario to transition to another scenario.

Detailed description of the function and the link-type content of the content reproduction system 1 is described above. Using this content reproduction system 1, it is possible to provide a wide variety of link-type content in cooperation with broadcast content. Therefore, unprecedented new content can be provided. Therefore, next, an example of the link-type content that can be provided by the application content reproduction system 1 will be described.

For example, a case will be assumed in which, as shown in fig. 26, a scene S1 (which is a main scene of a virtual space in which a studio provided by a certain news program roams) starts, and the user moves in the virtual space. When the user is located at a particular location within the virtual space and an absolute clock time event or absolute clock time-time event occurs, the user is directed from that location to the theater. In the theater, a broadcast scene starts and broadcast contents are viewed.

As described above, by the absolute clock time event or the absolute clock time-time event, it is possible to cause the event to occur at a specific date and time set in advance, and to cause switching to the broadcast content in transition to another scenario. Accordingly, it is possible to provide link-type content having various scenes.

In the above description, explanation has been made on the assumption that the content data is any one of moving image content, still image content, slide content, application content, and broadcast content. However, the content data is not limited thereto, and may include audio content such as lectures, radio programs, music, and the like.

[ example of configuration of computer ]

Incidentally, the above-described processing sequence can be executed by hardware, and also can be executed by software. In the case where the processing sequence is executed by software, a program configuring the software is installed from a program recording medium to a computer incorporated in dedicated hardware or, for example, a general-purpose personal computer that allows various functions to be executed by installing various programs thereto.

Fig. 27 is a configuration example showing hardware of a computer which executes the above-described processing sequence by a program.

In this computer 200, a CPU (central processing unit) 201, a ROM (read only memory) 202, and a RAM (random access memory) 203 are connected to each other by a bus 204.

An input/output interface 205 is also connected to the bus 204. The following are connected to the input/output interface 205: an input section 206 formed by a keyboard, a mouse, a microphone, and the like, an output section 207 formed by a display, a speaker, and the like, a storage section 208 formed by a hard disk, a nonvolatile memory, and the like, a communication section 209 formed by a network interface, and the like, and a drive 210 that drives a removable medium 211 such as a magnetic disk, an optical disk, a magneto-optical disk, or a semiconductor memory.

In the computer configured in the above-described manner, for example, the CPU 201 loads a program stored in the storage section 208 into the RAM 203 via the input/output interface 205 and the bus 204 and runs it, thereby executing the above-described processing sequence.

The program executed by the computer may be a program for which processing is performed in a time-series manner in the order described in this specification, or may be a program for which processing is performed in parallel or at a desired timing (for example, when a call is performed).

In addition, the program may be a program processed by one computer, or may be a program subjected to distributed processing by a plurality of computers. Further, the program may be a program that is transferred to a remote computer and executed.

In this specification, a system means an entirety of a device configured by a plurality of devices.

In addition, the embodiments of the present technology are not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various changes are possible within a range not departing from the spirit of the present invention.

Further, the present technology may also have the following configuration.

[1]

An information processing apparatus comprising:

a content acquirer that acquires a link-type content including a plurality of scenes composed of content data and control information for controlling reproduction of the content data;

a control information acquirer that acquires control information; and

a reproduction controller for controlling reproduction of the link-type content by reproducing the content data according to the control information, wherein

The control information acquirer acquires control information including an absolute clock time event that occurs as an event for transition from a current scenario to another scenario at a specific date and time on a time axis of the scenario, and

if an absolute clock time event occurs, the reproduction controller causes the current scenario to transition to another scenario.

[2]

The information processing apparatus according to [1], wherein

The control information acquirer acquires control information including an absolute clock time event occurring only at a time event as an event, the time event being a predetermined time region separated by a start point and an end point on a time axis of the scenario, and

the reproduction controller causes the current scenario to transition to another scenario if an absolute clock time event occurs in the predetermined time zone.

[3]

The information processing apparatus according to [1] or [2], further comprising:

a receiver receiving broadcast content broadcast via a broadcast network; and

and a display controller which switches content for displaying another scene to which the transition from the current scene is made from the link-type content to the broadcast content if the absolute clock time event occurs.

[4]

The information processing apparatus according to [3], wherein

The control information acquirer acquires control information including information for identifying broadcast content, and

the display controller displays the broadcast content received according to the control information.

[5]

The information processing apparatus according to any one of [1] to [4], wherein

If an absolute clock time event occurs, the reproduction controller forcibly causes a transition from the current scene to another scene reproduced at a specific date and time.

[6]

If an absolute clock time event occurs, when a command is issued by a user operation, the reproduction controller causes a transition from the current scene to another scene reproduced at a specific date and time.

[7]

An information processing method executed by an information processing apparatus, the information processing method comprising the steps of:

acquiring a link-type content including a plurality of scenes composed of content data and control information for controlling reproduction of the content data;

acquiring control information;

controlling reproduction of the link-type content by reproducing the content data according to the control information;

acquiring control information including an absolute clock time event that occurs as an event for switching from a current scenario to another scenario at a specific date and time on a time axis of the scenario; and

if an absolute clock time event occurs, the current scenario is caused to transition to another scenario.

[8]

A program for control of an information processing apparatus, the program causing a computer of the information processing apparatus to execute a process comprising:

acquiring control information;

[ list of reference numerals ]

1 content reproduction system

11 content reproduction apparatus

12 Web server

13 VSI server

14 content server

15 broadcasting device

21 communication network

22 broadcast network

31 communication I/F

32 reproduction section

33 control part

34 operating part

35 selector

36 tuner

37 demultiplexer

38 video decoder

39 audio decoder

40 display part

41 loudspeaker

50 VSI client

51 control information acquirer

52 reproduction controller

53 display controller

200 computer

201 CPU

Claims

1. An information processing apparatus comprising circuitry configured to:

obtaining first content data and first control information associated with a first scene, the first control information for controlling decoding of the first content data so as to display the first content data, and the first control information identifying a second scene to which the first scene is linked;

controlling decoding of the first content data according to the first control information;

determining an event that allows moving from a first scenario to a second scenario based on the first control information; and

when the event occurs, movement from the first scenario to the second scenario is allowed.

2. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the circuit is configured to acquire the first content data based on the first control information.

3. The information processing apparatus of claim 1, wherein the circuitry is configured to:

acquiring second control information associated with a second scenario based on the first control information; and

second content data associated with the second scene is acquired based on the second control information.

4. The information processing apparatus of claim 1, wherein the circuitry is configured to:

acquiring first content data and first control information via the internet; and

second content data and second control information are acquired from the digital television broadcast signal.

5. The information processing apparatus of claim 4, wherein the circuitry is configured to:

acquiring second content data based on a channel specified in the second control information; and

decoding of the second content data for display is controlled in accordance with second control information associated with the second content data.

6. The information processing apparatus of claim 1, wherein the circuitry is configured to:

when an event occurs, movement from a first scenario to a second scenario is automatically caused.

7. The information processing apparatus of claim 1, wherein the circuitry is configured to:

when an event occurs and when instructed by a user operation, movement from a first scenario to a second scenario is caused.

8. A television receiver comprising the information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

9. A method of decoding content, the method comprising the steps of:

acquiring, by a circuit of an information processing apparatus, first content data associated with a first scene and first control information for controlling decoding of the first content data so as to display the first content data, and identifying a second scene to which the first scene is linked;

controlling, by the circuitry, decoding of the first content data in accordance with the first control information;

determining, by the circuitry, an event that allows movement from a first context to a second context based on first control information; and

when the event occurs, movement from a first scenario to a second scenario is allowed by the circuitry.

10. The method of claim 9, wherein the obtaining step comprises:

first content data is acquired based on the first control information.

11. The method of claim 9, further comprising:

12. The method of claim 9, wherein:

the acquiring step includes acquiring the first content data and the first control information via the internet; and

the method further includes acquiring second content data and second control information from the digital television broadcast signal.

13. The method of claim 12, further comprising:

and controlling decoding of the second content data for display in accordance with second control information associated with the second content data, wherein the step of obtaining the second content data comprises obtaining the second content data based on a channel specified in the second control information.

14. The method of claim 9, further comprising:

15. The method of claim 9, further comprising:

16. A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium storing a program which, when executed by a computer, causes the computer to execute a method of decoding content, the method comprising the steps of: