SP312140
1
[DESCRIPTION]
[Title]
CONTENT TRANSMISSION APPARATUS, CONTENT TRANSMISSION
METHOD, CONTENT REPRODUCTION APPARATUS, CONTENT
REPRODUCTION METHOD, PROGRAM, AND CONTENT DISTRIBUTION
SYSTEM
[Technical Field]
[0001]
The present disclosure relates to a content transmission
apparatus, a content transmission method, a content
reproduction apparatus, a content reproduction time
method, a program, and a content distribution system.
Specifically, the present disclosure relates to a content
transmission apparatus, a content transmission method, a
content reproduction apparatus, a content reproduction
time method, a program, and a content distribution system
by which a user of a content reproduction apparatus can
view content with an arbitrary picture frame.
[Background Art]
[0002]
In related art, in a video content distribution service
represented by a video-on-demand service provided through
a television broadcast or the Internet, a viewer can view
video content only with a picture frame produced by the
broadcasting side.
SP312140
2
[0003]
It is to be noted that, in some pieces of video content
(so-called multi-angle content) which uses a package
medium such as a DVD (digital versatile disc) or a BD
(blu-ray disc) , a plurality of videos obtained by imaging
a sport event or a concert venue, which is an imaging
object, from a plurality of different points of views
(angles) are recorded (refer to, for example, PTL 1).
[0004]
When video content ready for multi angles is reproduced,
the viewer can select and view one of the plurality of
videos. However, even in the case of video content ready
for multi angles, a video of an arbitrary picture frame,
namely, a video in a state in which it is imaged from an
arbitrary point of view, cannot necessarily be viewed.
[Citation List]
[Patent Literature]
[0005]
[PTL 1]
Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2009-135946
[Summary]
[Technical Problem]
[0006]
Incidentally, with regard to video content, appearance of
a viewing form in which not only videos of a broadcast
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3
picture frame or videos of multi-angles prepared in
advance can be selected but also a video imaged from an
arbitrary point of view conforming to a preference of
each viewer can be viewed is demanded.
[0007]
In particular, such a demand as, for example, to view a
scene, which is not displayed on the screen now, on the
right side of a scene (imaging object) which is displayed
on the screen now or to view a scene (imaging object)
displayed on the screen now from the side.
[0008]
The present disclosure has been made in view of such a
situation as described above and makes it possible to
view a video in a state in which it is imaged from an
arbitrary point of view,
[Solution to Problem]
[0009]
According to a first aspect of the present disclosure,
there is provided a content transmission apparatus
including a retention section configured to retain multi
viewpoint video content configured from a plurality of
viewpoint videos imaged at the same time by a plurality
of video cameras different from each other, a generation
section configured to generate a VRT (View Relation
Table) including acquisition destination information of
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each of viewpoint videos which configure the multi
viewpoint video content, a supplying section configured
to supply the generated VRT to a content reproduction
apparatus, a broadcasting section configured to broadcast
the plurality of viewpoint videos which configure the
retained multi viewpoint video content, and a
distribution section configured to distribute the
plurality of viewpoint videos which configure the
retained multi viewpoint video content through a network.
[0010]
The generation section may generate the VRT further
including a viewpoint string type of each of viewpoint
videos which configure the video content and a
neighboring viewpoint video imaged in the neighborhood of
the viewpoint video.
[0011]
The viewpoint string type may be one of Panorama, Theater,
Parallel and Separated.
[0012]
The broadcasting section or the storage section may serve
also as the supplying section.
[0013]
According to the first aspect of the present disclosure,
there is further provided a content transmission method
of a content transmission apparatus which supplies multi
SP312140
viewpoint video content configured from a plurality of
multi viewpoint videos imaged at the same time by a
plurality of video cameras different from each other to a
content reproduction apparatus, including, by the content
transmission apparatus, a generation step of generating a
VRT including acquisition destination information of each
of viewpoint videos which configure the multi viewpoint
video content, a supplying step of supplying the
generated VRT to the content reproduction apparatus, a
broadcasting step of broadcasting the plurality of
viewpoint videos which configure the retained multi
viewpoint video content, and a distribution step of
distributing the plurality of viewpoint videos which
configure the retained multi viewpoint video content
through a network.
[0014]
According to the first aspect of the present disclosure,
there is further provided a program which causes a
computer to function as a retention section configured to
retain multi viewpoint video content configured from a
plurality of viewpoint videos imaged at the same time by
a plurality of video cameras different from each other, a
generation section configured to generate a VRT including
acquisition destination information of each of viewpoint
videos which configure the multi viewpoint video content.
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a supplying section configured to supply the generated
VRT to a content reproduction apparatus, a broadcasting
section configured to broadcast the plurality of
viewpoint videos which configure the retained multi
viewpoint video content, and a distribution section
configured to distribute the plurality of viewpoint
videos which configure the retained multi viewpoint video
content through a network.
[0015]
In the first aspect of the present disclosure, a VRT
including acquisition destination information of each of
viewpoint videos which configure multi viewpoint video
content is generated, and the generated VRT is supplied
to the content reproduction apparatus. The plurality of
viewpoint videos which configure the retained multi
viewpoint video content are broadcast, and the plurality
of viewpoint videos which configure the retained multi
viewpoint video content are distributed through the
network.
[0016]
According to a second aspect of the present disclosure,
there is a content reproduction apparatus which
reproduces multi viewpoint video content configured from
a plurality of viewpoint videos imaged at the same time
by a plurality of video cameras different from each other.
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{ • 7
including an acquisition section configured to acquire a
VRT including acquisition destination information of each
of viewpoint videos which configure the multi viewpoint
video content, an inputting section configured to input a
viewpoint moving operation from a user, a reception
section configured to receive, from among a plurality of
viewpoint videos which configure the multi viewpoint
video content, the plurality of viewpoint videos
corresponding to the inputted viewpoint moving operation
based on the VRT, and a generation section configured to
generate a video corresponding to the viewpoint moving
operation based on the plurality of received viewpoint
videos.
[0017]
The acquired VRT may further include a viewpoint string
type of each of viewpoint videos which configure the
multi viewpoint video content and a neighboring viewpoint
video imaged in the neighborhood of the viewpoint video.
[0018]
The viewpoint string type may be one of Panorama, Theater,
Parallel and Separated.
[0019]
The generation section may connect, when the viewpoint
string type of the plurality of received viewpoint videos
is Panorama or Parallel, the plurality of received
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8
viewpoint videos and cut out a predetermined region to
generate a video corresponding to the viewpoint moving
operation, but generate, when the viewpoint string type
of the plurality of received viewpoint videos is Theater,
a video corresponding to the viewpoint moving operation
by an interpolation in which the plurality of received
viewpoint videos are used.
[0020]
The reception section may receive from a broadcasting
signal, or may acquire from a content transmission
apparatus through a communication network, from among a
plurality of viewpoint videos which configure the multi
viewpoint video content, the plurality of viewpoint
videos corresponding to the inputted viewpoint moving
operation.
[0021]
The inputting section may include a viewpoint moving
button corresponding to the viewpoint string type of a
neighboring viewpoint video included in the acquired VRT
and imaged in the neighborhood of each of viewpoint
videos which configure the multi viewpoint video content.
[0022]
According to the second aspect of the present disclosure,
there is further provided a content reproduction method
of a content reproduction apparatus which reproduces
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; • • 9
multi viewpoint video content configured from a plurality
of viewpoint videos imaged at the same time by a
plurality of video cameras different from each other,
including, by the content reproduction apparatus, an
acquisition step of acquiring a VRT including acquisition
destination information of each of viewpoint videos which
configure the multi viewpoint video content, an inputting
step of inputting a viewpoint moving operation from a
user, a reception step of receiving, from among a
plurality of viewpoint videos which configure the multi
viewpoint video content, the plurality of viewpoint
videos corresponding to the inputted viewpoint moving
operation based on the VRT, and a generation step of
generating a video corresponding to the viewpoint moving
operation based on the plurality of received viewpoint
videos.
[0023]
According to the second aspect of the present disclosure,
there is further provided a program for causing a
computer, which reproduces multi viewpoint video content
configured from a plurality of viewpoint videos imaged at
the same time by a plurality of video cameras different
from each other, to function as an acquisition section
configured to acquire a VRT including acquisition
destination information of each of viewpoint videos which
SP312140
r; 10
configure the multi viewpoint video content, an inputting
section configured to input a viewpoint moving operation
from a user, a reception section configured to receive,
from among a plurality of viewpoint videos which
configure the multi viewpoint video content, the
plurality of viewpoint videos corresponding to the
inputted viewpoint moving operation based on the VRT, and
a generation section configured to generate a video
corresponding to the viewpoint moving operation based on
the plurality of received viewpoint videos.
[0024]
In the second aspect of the present disclosure, a VRT
including acquisition destination information of each of
viewpoint videos which configure multi viewpoint video
content is acquired, and a viewpoint moving operation
from a user is inputted. From among a plurality of
viewpoint videos which configure the multi viewpoint
video content, the plurality of viewpoint videos
corresponding to the inputted viewpoint moving operation
are received based on the VRT. Then, a video
corresponding to the viewpoint moving operation is
generated based on the plurality of received viewpoint
videos.
[0025]
According to a third aspect of the present disclosure.
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11
there is provided a content distribution system including
a content transmission apparatus and a content
reproduction apparatus. The content transmission
apparatus includes a retention section configured to
retain multi viewpoint video content configured from a
plurality of viewpoint videos imaged at the same time by
a plurality of video cameras different from each other, a
generation section configured to generate a VRT including
acquisition destination information of each of viewpoint
videos which configure the multi viewpoint video content,
a supplying section configured to supply the generated
VRT to the content reproduction apparatus, a broadcasting
section configured to broadcast the plurality of
viewpoint videos which configure the retained multi
viewpoint video content, and a distribution section
configured to distribute the plurality of viewpoint
videos which configure the retained multi viewpoint video
content through a network. The content reproduction
apparatus includes an acquisition section configured to
acquire the VRT, an inputting section configured to input
a viewpoint moving operation from a user, a reception
section configured to receive, from among a plurality of
viewpoint videos which configure the multi viewpoint
video content, the plurality of viewpoint videos
corresponding to the inputted viewpoint moving operation
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\ 12
based on the VRT, and a generation section configured to
generate a video corresponding to the viewpoint moving
operation based on the plurality of received viewpoint
videos.
[0026]
In the third aspect of the present disclosure, the
content transmission apparatus generates a VRT including
acquisition destination information of viewpoint videos
which configure multi viewpoint video content, and
supplies the generated VRT to the content reproduction
apparatus. Further, the content transmission apparatus
broadcasts the plurality of viewpoint videos which
configure the retained multi viewpoint video content, and
distributes the plurality of viewpoint videos which
configure the retained multi viewpoint video content
through the network. Meanwhile, the content reproduction
apparatus acquires the VRT and accepts a viewpoint moving
operation from a user inputted thereto. Further, the
content reproduction apparatus receives, from among a
plurality of viewpoint videos which configure the multi
viewpoint video content, the plurality of viewpoint
videos corresponding to the inputted viewpoint moving
operation based on the VRT. Then, the content
reproduction apparatus generates a video corresponding to
the viewpoint moving operation based on the plurality of
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received viewpoint videos.
[Advantageous Effect of Invention]
[0027]
According to the first aspect of the present disclosure,
video content which can be viewed in a state in which it
is imaged from an arbitrary point of view can be supplied
to the reception side.
[0028]
According to the second aspect of the present disclosure,
a video in a state in which it is imaged from an
arbitrary point of view can be viewed.
[0029]
According to the third aspect of the present disclosure,
a viewer can view a video in a state in which it is
imaged from a point of view determined arbitrarily by the
viewer.
[Brief Description of Drawings]
[0030]
[FIG. 1]
FIG. 1 is a view illustrating View Relation Type = 1
(Panorama).
[FIG. 2]
FIG. 2 is a view illustrating a state in which a
plurality of multi viewpoint videos which configure video
content of Panorama are connected in a horizontal
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-r\ 14
direction.
[FIG. 3]
FIG. 3 is a view illustrating View Relation Type = 2
(Theater).
[FIG. 4]
FIG. 4 is a view illustrating View Relation Type = 3
(Parallel).
[FIG. 5]
FIG. 5 is a view illustrating View Relation Type = 4
(Separated).
[FIG. 6]
FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing an example of a
configuration of a multi viewpoint video content viewing
system to which the present disclosure is applied.
[FIG. 7]
FIG. 7 is a view illustrating a transmission timing of a
VRT in the case where multi viewpoint videos are prepared
in an overall period of video content.
[FIG. 8]
FIG. 8 is a view illustrating a transmission timing of a
VRT in the case where multi viewpoint videos are prepared
in part of an overall period of video content.
[FIG. 9]
FIG. 9 is a view illustrating an example of reference
information for acquiring a VRT.
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15
[FIG. 10]
FIG. 10 is a view illustrating an example of a
description of reference information.
[FIG. 11]
FIG. 11 is view illustrating an example of a VRT.
[FIG. 12]
FIG. 12 is a view illustrating an example of a
description of a VRT.
[FIG. 13]
FIG. 13 is a block diagram showing an example of a
configuration of a reception apparatus.
[FIG. 14]
FIG. 14 is a flow chart illustrating a multi viewpoint
video reception process.
[FIG. 15]
FIG. 15 is a view showing an example of a viewpoint
moving button.
[FIG. 16]
FIG. 16 is a view illustrating a screen image transition
which appears in response to an operation for the
viewpoint moving button.
[FIG. 17]
FIG. 17 is a block diagram showing an example of a
configuration of a computer.
[Description of Embodiments]
SP312140
[0031]
In the following, the best mode (hereinafter referred to
as embodiment) for carrying out the present disclosure is
described in detail with reference to the drawings.
[0032]
<1. Embodiment>
[Outline of the Multi viewpoint Video Content Viewing
System]
An outline of a multi viewpoint video content viewing
system which is an embodiment of the present disclosure
is described. The multi viewpoint video content viewing
system makes it possible to configure one piece of video
content from a plurality of viewpoint videos imaged from
a plurality of different camera positions. Further, the
multi viewpoint video content viewing system makes it
possible for the reception side to cut out an arbitrary
range from the viewpoint videos or connect or interpolate
a plurality of viewpoint videos so that a video in a
state in which it is imaged from an arbitrary viewpoint
can be viewed. A plurality of viewpoint videos which
configure the multi viewpoint video content need not
necessarily be same with each other in resolution or
coding format.
[0033]
It is to be noted that multi viewpoint video content may
SP312140
[• 17
be configured from a plurality of viewpoint videos over
an overall period or may be configured from a plurality
of viewpoint videos only within part of the period
thereof.
[0034]
Multi viewpoint video content configured from a plurality
of viewpoint videos is retained on the transmission side,
and from among the viewpoint videos which configure the
multi viewpoint video content, one viewpoint video which
represents the multi viewpoint video content and by which,
for example, an image pickup object is imaged from the
front is determined as a default (entry) video.
Individual viewpoint videos are broadcast or distributed
through transmission paths different from each other (in
a Broadcast Stream in a television broadcast and an
Internet Stream in network distribution).
[0035]
Relations of a plurality of viewpoint videos which
configure multi viewpoint video content are classified
into four different viewpoint string types, namely. View
Relation Type = 1 (panorama), View Relation Type = 2
(Theater), View Relation Type = 3 (Parallel) and View
Relation Type 4 = (Separated).
[0036]
FIG. 1 illustrates a situation upon imaging of multi
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18
viewpoint video content configured from a viewpoint
string of View Relation Type = 1 (Program). In this
instance, the multi viewpoint video content is obtained
by disposing a plurality of video cameras at the same
camera point and imaging in directions different from
each other at the same time by the video cameras. In the
case of FIG. 1, the overall range of 360 degrees is
equally divided into eight regions, and the regions are
imaged at the same time from the same camera position CO
to C7. By the imaging, a viewpoint string of viewpoint
videos VO to V7 of View Relation Type = 1 (Panorama) is
obtained.
[0037]
It is to be noted that, where video content is configured
from a viewpoint string of Panorama, a viewpoint string
for the overall circumference of 360 degrees need not
necessarily be prepared. For example, multi viewpoint
video content may be configured from a viewpoint string
for a half circumference of 180 degrees or the like
centered at the same camera position. Further, also the
number of video cameras to be used for imaging may be
determined arbitrarily. If a smaller number of video
cameras are used to increase the image pickup angle of
view per one video camera, then the execution frequency
of a process for connecting two viewpoints to each can be
SP312140
:;. 19
reduced on the reception side. On the contrary, if a
greater number of video cameras are used to decrease the
image pickup angle of view per one video camera, then
picture quality degradation such as distortion which may
possibly occur with an interpolation video can be
suppressed.
[0038]
FIG. 2 illustrates a state in which the viewpoint strings
VO to V7 of Panorama which configure the video content
are connected to each other in a horizontal direction.
[0039]
On the reception side, not only it is possible to
selectively view one of the viewpoint strings VO to V7
but also it is possible to designate a picture frame
spanning between the two viewpoint strings V2 and V3 and
view a video within the picture frame. For example, if a
viewing picture frame which occupies only the viewpoint
video V4 as shown in the figure is designated, then only
the viewpoint video V4 is received and decoded. On the
other hand, if a viewing picture frame spanning between
the viewpoint videos V2 and V3 is designated, then the
viewpoint videos V2 and V3 are received and decoded and a
viewing picture frame is cut out.
[0040]
FIG. 3 illustrates a situation upon imaging of multi
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20
viewpoint video content configured from a viewpoint
string of View Relation Type = 2 (Theater), In this
instance, the multi viewpoint video content is obtained
by providing a plurality of camera positions (viewpoints)
on a circle surrounding an image pickup object and
imaging the image pickup object at the same time from the
camera positions. In the case of this figure, the
viewpoint strings VO to V8 of Theater are obtained by
providing nine camera positions CO to C8 on a circle
surrounding the image pickup object and imaging the image
pick object at the same time from the camera positions CO
to C8, respectively.
[0041]
On the reception side, not only it is possible to view
one of the viewpoint strings VO to V8 imaged from the
camera positions CO to C8 different from each other on
the same circle but also it is possible to interpolate a
video, which is in a state obtained by imaging from an
arbitrary position of the same circle different from the
camera positions CO to C8 and view the interpolated video.
For example, in order to view a video in a state in which
it is imaged from between the camera position C2 and the
camera position C4, the viewpoint videos V2 and V4 are
received and decoded, and a desired video is generated by
an interpolation process using the decoded viewpoint
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21
videos V2 and V4.
[0042]
FIG. 4 illustrates a situation upon imaging of multi
viewpoint video content configured from a viewpoint
string of View Relation Type = 3 (Parallel). In this
instance, the multi viewpoint video content is obtained
by providing a plurality of camera positions (viewpoints)
on a straight line opposing to an image pickup object and
imaging the image pickup object at the same time from the
camera positions such that the imaging directions may be
parallel to each other. In the case of this figure,
viewpoint strings VO to V4 of Parallel are obtained by
providing five camera positions CO to C4 on a straight
line and imaging the image pick object at the same time
from the camera positions CO to C4, respectively.
[0043]
On the reception side, not only it is possible to view
one of the viewpoint strings VO to V4 imaged from the
camera positions CO to C4 different from each other on
the straight line but also it is possible to interpolate
a video, which is in a state obtained by imaging from an
arbitrary position linearly different from the camera
positions CO to C4 and view the interpolated video. For
example, in order to view a video in a state in which it
is imaged from between the camera position CI and the
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V,' 22
camera position C2, the viewpoint videos VI and V2 are
received and decoded, and a desired video is generated by
an interpolation process using the decoded viewpoint
videos VI and V2.
[0044]
FIG. 5 illustrates a situation upon imaging of multi
viewpoint video content configured from a viewpoint
string of View Relation Type = 4 (Separated). In this
instance, the multi viewpoint video content is obtained
by imaging an image pickup object from a camera position
provided discretely and irregularly from the other camera
positions. In the case of this figure, from among five
camera positions CO, CI, C2, CIO and C20, the camera
positions CO, CI and C2 are disposed on the same circle
while the camera position CIO is disposed above the
camera position CO and the camera position C20 is
provided irregularly and discretely. Therefore, the
viewpoint string types of the viewpoint strings VIO and
V20 imaged from the camera positions CIO and C20 become
Separated.
[0045]
It is to be noted that one piece of multi viewpoint video
content may be configured such that a plurality of
viewpoint strings of different viewpoint string types are
included in a mixed manner.
SP312140
23
[0046]
[Example of the Configuration of the Multi Viewpoint
Video Content Viewing System]
Now, an example of a configuration of the multi viewpoint
video content viewing system which is an embodiment of
the present disclosure is described.
[0047]
FIG. 6 shows an example of a configuration of the multi
viewpoint video content viewing system according to the
embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0048]
This multi viewpoint video content viewing system 10 is
configured from a transmission apparatus 20, and
reception apparatuses 30-1 to 30-n connected to the
transmission apparatus 20 through the Internet 11. In the
following description, in the case where there is no
necessity to individually distinguish the reception
apparatuses 30-1 to 30-n, each of them is referred to
merely as reception apparatus 30.
[0049]
The transmission apparatus 20 includes a content
retention section 21, a VRT generation section 22, a
broadcasting section 23, and a transmission section 24.
[0050]
The content retention section 21 retains multi viewpoint
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' S' 24
video content configured from a plurality of viewpoint
videos. The VRT generation section 22 generates a VRT
(View Relation Table) necessary for the reception side to
receive the viewpoint videos and outputs the VRT to the
broadcasting section 23 or the transmission section 24.
[0051]
The VRT includes information such as a viewpoint string
type of each of a plurality of viewpoint videos which
configure the multi viewpoint video content and an
acquisition destination URL (URL of a Broadcast Stream or
an Internet stream). It is to be noted that details of
the VRT are hereinafter described with reference to FIGS.
7 to 12.
[0052]
The broadcasting section 23 reads out a predetermined one
(for example, a default (entry) viewpoint video or the
like) of a plurality of viewpoint videos which configure
the multi viewpoint video content and are retained in the
content retention section 21 and broadcasts the
predetermined viewpoint video as a Broadcast Stream. In
other words, the broadcasting section 23 broadcasts the
predetermined viewpoint video as a television program
through a broadcasting network 12. Further, the
broadcasting section 23 places the generated VRT to a
predetermined position of the broadcasting signal and
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25
broadcasts the broadcasting signal.
[0053]
The transmission section 24 reads out a predetermined one
(one imaged from a representative camera position such as
a viewpoint video other than the default (entry)
viewpoint video) of the viewpoint videos which configure
the multi viewpoint video content and are retained in the
content retention section 21, and distributes the
predetermined viewpoint video as an Internet Stream
through the Internet 11. Further, in accordance with a
request from a reception apparatus 30-i, the transmission
section 24 transmits the generated VRT to the reception
apparatus 30-i of the requesting source through the
Internet 11.
[0054]
It is to be noted that all viewpoint videos which
configure the multi viewpoint video content may be
broadcast as a Broadcast Stream through the broadcasting
network 12. On the contrary, all viewpoint videos which
configure the multi viewpoint video content may be
distributed as an Internet Stream through the Internet 11.
Or all or some of the viewpoint videos which configure
the multi viewpoint video content may be supplied to the
reception side in a state in which they are recorded on a
storage medium such as a BD (blu-ray disc).
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26
[0055]
[VRT]
FIG. 7 illustrates a transmission timing of a VRT in the
case where the multi viewpoint video content within an
overall period is configured from a plurality viewpoint
videos.
[0056]
In this instance, one VRT is prepared for the video
content. It is necessary for this VRT to be supplied to
the reception side only before broadcasting of the video
content is started. In particular, the VRT or reference
information including an acquisition destination of the
VRT may be described in an EIT (Event Information Table)
or a PMT (Program Map Table) of the television
broadcasting signal.
[0057]
It is to be noted that, in the case where all viewpoint
videos which configure the multi viewpoint video content
are to be distributed through the Internet 11, a
notification of the VRT and reference information
including an acquisition destination of the VRT may be
issued as a kind of a meta file to be acquired before the
video content is reproduced such as, for example, CAD or
ERI (Entry Resource Information) to the reception side.
[0058]
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27
FIG. 8 illustrates a transmission timing of a VRT in the
case where the video content in some periods is
configured from multi viewpoint videos, namely, a
plurality of viewpoint videos.
[0059]
In this instance, a VRT is prepared for each of two
periods (each hereinafter referred to as multi viewpoint
segment) in which a multi viewpoint video is configured
from a plurality of viewpoint videos. Each of the VRTs
may be supplied to the reception side before a starting
timing of the multi viewpoint segment. In particular,
reference information including an acquisition
destination of the VRT corresponding to the segment may
be described in the PMT of the television broadcasting
signal.
[0060]
It is to be noted that, in the case where all viewpoint
videos which configure the multi viewpoint video content
are to be distributed through the Internet 11, a
notification of the VRT and the reference information
including the acquisition designation of the VRT may be
issued to the reception side as a kind of a metal file
(for example, a CAD or an ERI) to be acquired before the
video content is reproduced.
[0061]
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i ' 28
FIG. 9 illustrates an example of reference information
including an acquisition destination of a VRT supplied to
the reception side, and FIG, 10 illustrates an example of
a particular description of the reference information.
[0062]
A number of Multi viewpoints equal to the number of multi
viewpoint segments of one piece of video content are
provided. For example, in the case of FIG. 8, two Multi
viewpoints are described.
[0063]
In the Multi viewpoints, three elements of @startNPT,
@endNPT and @info are provided. In the @startNPT, a
starting time position of the multi viewpoint segment is
described in NPT (Normal Play Time). In the SendNPT, an
ending time position of the multi viewpoint segment is
described in NPT. In the @info, a URL indicative of an
acquisition destination of the corresponding VRT is
described.
[0064]
Now, FIG. 11 illustrates an example of a VRT, and FIG. 12
illustrates an example of a description of a VRT
corresponding to video content imaged in the situation
illustrated in FIG. 5.
[0065]
The View_object element is information relating to each
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C' 2 9
of viewpoint videos which configure the multi viewpoint
video content, and a number of View_object elements equal
to the number of viewpoints are described. In the
View_object, seven attributes of id, name, cut, format,
resolution_h, resolution_v and location are provided.
[0066]
In the id attribute of the View_object, identification
information of the viewpoint in the multi viewpoint video
is described. In the name attribute, a name of the
viewpoint video is described. In the cut attribute,
whether the partial cutout from the viewpoint video is
permitted or prohibited is described. In the format
attribute, a coding format of the viewpoint video is
described. In the resolution_h attribute, a resolution of
the viewpoint video in the horizontal direction is
described. In the resolution_v attribute, a resolution of
the viewpoint image in the vertical direction is
described. In the @location, an acquisition destination
URL of the viewpoint video is described.
[0067]
Further, in the View_object element, a neighbor_view
element indicative of information relating to a viewpoint
video imaged at a camera position neighboring with the
camera position at which the viewpoint video
corresponding to the View_object is imaged is described
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{'• 30
as a child element. In the neighbor_view element, four
attributes of an id attribute, a type attribute, a
direction attribute and a distance attribute are provided.
[0068]
In the id attribute of the neighbor_view element,
identification information of a viewpoint video
(hereinafter referred to as neighboring viewpoint video)
imaged at a camera position neighboring with the camera
position at which a viewpoint video corresponding to the
View_object element of the parent element is imaged is
described. In the type attribute, a viewpoint string type
between the neighboring viewpoints is described. In the
direction attribute, a direction of the camera position
at which the neighboring viewpoint video is imaged with
respect to the camera position at which the multi
viewpoint video corresponding to the View_object element
is imaged is described. In the distance attribute, a
distance or an angle of the camera position at which the
neighboring viewpoint video is imaged with respect to the
camera position at which the multi viewpoint video
corresponding to the View_object element is imaged is
described.
[0069]
[Example of the Configuration of the Reception Apparatus
30]
SP312140
31
FIG. 13 shows an example of a configuration of the
reception apparatus 30. The reception apparatus 30
includes an operation inputting section 31, a control
section 32, a tuner 33, a demultiplexing section (DEMUX)
34, video decoders 35-1 and 35-2, audio decoders 36-1 and
36-2, a video processing section 37, an audio processing
section 38, a communication interface (I/F) 39, a VRT
analysis section 40, streaming reception sections 41-1
and 41-2 and a synchronization controlling section 42.
[0070]
The operation inputting section 31 is configured, for
example, from a remote controller and a corresponding
reception section (both not shown) and accepts an
operation of a user and then issues a notification of the
accepted operation to the control section 32. In
particular, the operation inputting section 31 accepts an
operation of the user of selecting video content,
designating a position or a size of a picture frame of
the video content or designating a viewpoint (camera
position) and notifies the control section 32 of the
accepted operation.
[0071]
The control section 32 controls the components of the
reception apparatus 30 in accordance with an operation of
the user inputted using the operation inputting section
SP312140
32
31. The tuner 33 receives a broadcasting signal
(Broadcast Stream) of a default (entry) viewpoint video
from a television broadcasting signal broadcast through
the broadcasting network 12 and outputs the received
broadcasting signal to the demultiplexing section 34.
The streaming reception sections 41-1 and 41-2 receive
streaming data (Internet Stream) of a multi viewpoint
video from the transmission apparatus 20 through the
communication I/F 39 and the Internet 11, correspondingly,
and output the accepted streaming data to the
demultiplexing section 34.
[0072]
The demultiplexing section 34 demultiplexes a VRT or
reference information for acquiring the VRT included in
the PMT, EIT or the like from the broadcasting signal
inputted from the tuner 33 and supplies the VRT or the
reference information to the VRT analysis section 40.
Further, the demultiplexing section 34 demultiplexes
video coded data and audio coded data from the
broadcasting signal inputted from the tuner 33 and the
streaming data inputted from the streaming reception
section 41. It is to be noted that it is assumed that the
demultiplexing section 34 can process streaming data of
at least two systems at the same time. The demultiplexed
video coded data are inputted to the video decoder 35-1
SP312140
33
or 35-2 and the demultiplexed audio coded data are
inputted to the audio decoder 36-1 or 36-2.
[0073]
The video decoders 35-1 and 35-2 decode the video coded
data inputted thereto and output a video signal of videos
of different viewpoints obtained by the decoding to the
video processing section 37. The audio decoders 36-1 and
3 6-2 decode the audio coded data inputted thereto and
output an audio signal of different viewpoints obtained
by the decoding to the audio processing section 38.
[0074]
The video processing section 37 generates a video signal
to be presented of the user by connecting two video
signals (corresponding to two viewpoint videos at camera
positions neighboring with each other) inputted from the
video decoders 35-1 and 35-2 and cutting out a
predetermined region of the connected signal,
interpolating a video corresponding to an arbitrary
viewpoint or superposing a video of an operation button
or the like serving as a user interface. Then, the video
processing section 37 outputs the generated video signal
to a monitor (not shown) at the succeeding stage. The
audio processing section 38 generates an audio signal to
be presented of the user by synthesizing two audio
signals (corresponding to two viewpoint videos at camera
SP312140
34
positions neighboring with each other) inputted from the
audio decoders 36-1 and 36-2. Then, the audio processing
section 38 outputs the generated audio signal to a
monitor (not shown) at the succeeding stage,
[0075]
The communication I/F 39 is connected to the transmission
apparatus 20 through the Internet 11.
[0076]
The VRT analysis section 40 acquires, when reference
information for acquiring a VRT is supplied thereto from
the demultiplexing section 34, a VRT from the
transmission apparatus 20 through the communication I/F
39 and the Internet 11 in accordance with the reference
information. Further, the VRT analysis section 40
analyzes the VRT supplied thereto from the demultiplexing
section 34 or acquired by the VRT analysis section 40
itself and outputs a result of the analysis to the
control section 32.
[0077]
The synchronization controlling section 42 controls the
video decoders 35-1 and 35-2, audio decoders 36-1 and 36-
2, video processing section 37, audio processing section
38 and streaming reception sections 41-1 and 41-2 so that
they are synchronized with each other.
[0078]
SP312140
V ;, 35
[Description of Operation]
FIG. 14 is a flow chart illustrating a multi viewpoint
video reception process by the reception apparatus 30.
[0079]
It is assumed that the reception apparatus 30 has already
received a default viewpoint video of video content being
broadcast as a television program through the
broadcasting network 12.
[0080]
At step SI, the VRT analysis section 40 receives
reference information of the VRT and the VRT supplied
thereto from the demultiplexing section 34 or acquires
reference information of the VRT and the VRT by the VRT
analysis section 40 itself, analyzes the VRT and outputs
a result of the analysis to the control section 32. At
step S2, the control section 32 decides whether or not
the progress position of the video content being received
is a multi viewpoint segment.
[0081]
If it is decided that the progress position of the video
content being received is not a multi viewpoint segment,
then the processing is advanced to step S3. At step S3,
the video processing section 37 places, if a viewpoint
moving button is displayed on an image of the video
content being received, the viewpoint moving button into
SP312140
'.'; 36
a non-displaying state under the control of the control
section 32. If a viewpoint moving button is not displayed,
then the video processing section 37 carries out nothing.
Thereafter, the processing returns to step S2 so that the
processes at the steps beginning with step S2 are
repeated.
[0082]
If it is decided at step S2 that the progress position of
the video content being received is a multi viewpoint
segment, then the processing is advanced to step S4. At
step S4, the video processing section 37 causes, if a
viewpoint moving button is not displayed on the video of
the video content being received, then a viewpoint moving
button to be displayed under the control of the control
section 32. If the viewpoint moving button is displayed,
then the display is maintained.
[0083]
Here, a viewpoint moving button displayed on the video of
the video content is described. FIG. 15 shows an example
of 12 different viewpoint moving buttons. It is to be
noted that which one of the viewpoint moving buttons is
to be displayed is decided by referring to the VRT and
based on the type attribute and the direction attribute
of the neighbor_view element included in the View_object
element of the viewpoint video being received. In the
SP312140
-.. 37
case where the viewpoint string type is Panorama, Theater
or Parallel, the moving amount of the viewpoint is
determined in response to a period of time for depression
or to a number of times of depression of the
corresponding viewpoint moving button.
[0084]
Referring back to FIG. 14, at step S5, the control
section 32 decides based on an input from the operation
inputting section 31 whether or not the viewpoint moving
button is operated by the user. If the viewpoint moving
button is not operated, then the processing returns to
step S2 so that the processes at the steps beginning with
step S2 are repeated.
[0085]
If it is decided at step S5 that the viewpoint moving
button is operated, then the processing advances to step
S6. At step S6, the control section 32 decides based on
the operated viewpoint moving button whether or not the
viewpoint string type to the viewpoint video of the
movement destination is Separated. If the viewpoint
string type is Separated, then the processing is advanced
to step S7. At step S7, the control section 32 controls
the pertaining components to receive and decode the
viewpoint video of the movement destination and output
the video signal to the succeeding stage. Thereafter, the
SP312140
V/' 38
processing returns to step S2 so that the processes at
the steps beginning with step S2 are repeated.
[0086]
If it is decided at step S6 that the viewpoint string
type to the viewpoint video of the movement destination
is not Separated, then the processing is advanced to step
S8. At step S8, the control section 32 calculates the
movement amount of the viewpoint based on a period of
time of depression or a number of times of depression of
the viewpoint moving button to determine the viewpoint
position of the movement destination.
[0087]
At step S9, the control section 32 decides based on the
VRT whether or not a viewpoint video imaged actually
exists at the viewpoint position of the movement
destination thereby to decide whether or not the
viewpoint position of the movement destination requires
interpolation.
[0088]
If it is decided that an actually imaged viewpoint video
exists at the viewpoint position of the movement
destination and then decides that the viewpoint position
of the movement destination does not require
interpolation, then the processing is advanced to step
SIO. At step SIO, the control section 32 controls the
SP312140
;; 39
pertaining components to receive and decode a viewpoint
video corresponding to the viewpoint position of the
movement destination and output the video signal to the
succeeding stage. Thereafter, the processing returns to
step S2 so that the processes at the steps beginning with
step S2 are repeated.
[0089]
If it is decided at step S9 that an actually imaged
viewpoint video does not exist at the viewpoint position
of the movement destination and therefore decides that
the viewpoint position of the movement destination
requires interpolation, then the processing is advanced
to step Sll. At step Sll, the control section 32 controls
the pertaining components to receive and decode two multi
viewpoint videos imaged at actual camera positions
positioned across the viewpoint position of the movement
destination and output two video signals to the video
processing section 37. At step S12, the video processing
section 37 generates, based on the viewpoint string type
and the viewpoint positions of the two video signals
inputted thereto, a video in a state in which it is
imaged at the viewpoint position and outputs a resulting
video signal to the succeeding stage so as to be
displayed.
[0090]
SP312140
= ,; 40
In particular, for example, if the viewpoint string type
of the two video signals is Panorama or Parallel, then
the two video signals are connected to each other in the
horizontal direction and a picture frame corresponding to
the viewpoint position is cut out. On the other hand, for
example, if the viewpoint string type of the two video
signals is Theater, then a video corresponding to the
viewpoint position is generated by an interpolation
process based on the two video signals. It is to be noted
that, although an arbitrary technique can be used for the
interpolation process, for example, the technique
proposed as Japanese Patent Application No. 2010-274808
by the applicant of the present application may be
applied.
[0091]
Thereafter, the processing returns to step S2 so that the
processes at the steps beginning with step S2 are
repeated. The description of the multi viewpoint video
reception process ends therewith.
[0092]
FIG. 16 illustrates an example of a screen image
transition in response to an operation of a user for a
viewpoint moving button in the multi viewpoint video
reception process.
[0093]
SP312140
41
For example, if the progress position of video content
comes to a multi viewpoint segment while such a default
(entry) multi viewpoint video as shown in A of this
figure is being received, then a viewpoint moving button
or buttons are displayed on the default (entry) multi
viewpoint video as shown in B of this figure. In the case
of B of this figure, the viewpoint string type is Theater
and viewpoint moving buttons by which the viewpoint
position can be moved to the left side and the right side
are displayed.
[0094]
If the user operates the left side viewpoint moving
button on the screen display of B of this figure, then
the video of the screen is changed into a state in which
the viewpoint position has moved leftwardly on the
concentric circle. On the screen display after the change,
a viewpoint moving button wherein the viewpoint string
type is Theater and which can move the viewpoint position
to the right side, namely, which can restore the screen
display of B of this figure, is displayed. On the
contrary, if the user operates the right side viewpoint
moving button on the screen display of B of this figure,
then the video on the screen is changed into a state in
which the viewpoint position has move to the right side
on the concentric circuit. On the screen after the change.
SP312140
V; 42
a viewpoint moving button wherein the viewpoint string
type is Theater and which can move the viewpoint position
to the left side, namely, which can restore the state of
B of this figure, is displayed.
[0095]
Thereafter, if the progress position of the video content
is displaced from the multi viewpoint segment, then the
display image of the viewpoint moving button erased as
shown in E of this figure.
[0096]
By the multi viewpoint video content viewing system
described above, for example, the following scenarios can
be implemented.
[0097]
Scenario 1
From above a four-wheel drive vehicle which runs on the
savannah of Kenya, an overall circumference of 360
degrees is imaged and broadcast as a multi viewpoint
video of the viewpoint string type Panorama. A viewer of
this program can change the video to that in an arbitrary
direction or the like and find out a wild animal existing
therearound.
[0098]
Scenario 2
A show played in the Amphitheater in Las Vegas is imaged
SP312140
as a multi viewpoint video, whose viewpoint string type
is Theater, by video cameras disposed at fixed distances
along a central path provided circumferentially in
bleachers. Then, the imaged multi viewpoint video is
broadcast. A viewer of this program can view the video in
a state in which the viewer looks at the stage from an
arbitrary position of the central path.
[0099]
Incidentally, while the series of processes described
above can be executed by hardware, it may otherwise be
executed by software. In the case where the series of
processes is executed by software, a program which
constructs the software is installed from a program
recording medium into a computer incorporated in hardware
for exclusive use or, for example, a personal computer
for universal use or the like which can execute various
functions by installing various programs.
[0100]
FIG. 17 is a block diagram showing an example of a
configuration of a computer which executes the series of
processes described hereinabove in accordance with a
program.
[0101]
In this computer 100, a CPU (Central Process Unit) 101, a
ROM (Read Only Memory) 102 and a RAM (Random Access
SP312140
Memory) 103 are connected to each other by a bus 104,
[0102]
Further, an input/output interface 105 is connected to
the bus 104. To the input/output interface 105, an
inputting section 106 including a keyboard, a mouse, a
microphone and so forth, an outputting section 107
including a display unit, a speaker and so forth, a
storage section 108 configured from a hard disk, a
nonvolatile memory and so forth, a communication section
109 including a network interface and so forth, and a
drive 110 for driving a removable medium 111 such as a
magnetic disk, an optical disk, a magneto-optical disk, a
semiconductor memory and so forth are connected.
[0103]
In the computer 100 configured in such a manner as
described above, the CPU 101 loads a program stored, for
example, in the storage section 108 into the RAM 103
through the input/output interface 105 and the bus 104
and executes the program to carry out the series of
processes described hereinabove.
[0104]
It is to be noted that the program executed by the
computer may be a program by which the processes are
carried out in a time series in accordance with the order
described in the present specification or may be a
SP312140
45
program by which the processes are carried out in
parallel or at necessary timings such as a timing at
which the program is called.
[0105]
Or, the program may be processed by a single computer or
may be processed in a distributed fashion by a plurality
of computers. Further, the program may be transferred to
and executed by a remote computer.
[0106]
Further, in the present specification, the term system
represents an entire apparatus configured from a
plurality of apparatus.
[0107]
It is to be noted that the embodiment of the present
disclosure is not limited to the embodiment described
above but can be changed in various manners without
departing from the subject matter of the present
disclosure.
[Reference Signs List]
[0108]
10 Multi viewpoint video content viewing system, 11
Internet, 12 Broadcasting network, 20 Transmission
apparatus, 21 Content retention section, 22 VRT
generation section, 23 Broadcasting section, 24
Transmission section, 30 Reception apparatus, 31
SP312140
•; 4 6
Operation inputting section, 32 Control section, 33 Tuner,
34 Demultiplexing section, 35 Video decoder, 36 Audio
decoder, 37 Video processing section, 38 Audio processing
section, 39 Communication I/F, 40 VRT analysis section,
41 Streaming reception section, 42 Synchronization
controlling section

SP312140
[CLAIMS]
[Claim 1]
A content transmission apparatus, comprising:
a retention section configured to retain multi viewpoint
video content configured from a plurality of viewpoint
videos imaged at the same time by a plurality of video
cameras different from each other;
a generation section configured to generate a VRT (View
Relation Table) including acquisition destination
information of each of viewpoint videos which configure
the multi viewpoint video content;
a supplying section configured to supply the generated
VRT to a content reproduction apparatus;
a broadcasting section configured to broadcast a single
one or plural ones of the viewpoint videos which
configure the retained multi viewpoint video content; and
a distribution section configured to distribute a single
one or plural ones of the viewpoint videos which
configure the retained multi viewpoint video content
through a network.
[Claim 2]
The content transmission apparatus according to claim 1,
wherein
the generation section generates the VRT further
including a viewpoint string type representative of a
SP312140
48
relation between each of viewpoint videos which configure
the video content and a neighboring viewpoint video
imaged in the neighborhood of the viewpoint video.
[Claim 3]
The content transmission apparatus according to claim 2,
wherein
the viewpoint string type is one of Panorama, Theater,
Parallel and Separated,
[Claim 4]
The content transmission apparatus according to claim 2,
wherein
the broadcasting section or the storage section serves
also as the supplying section.
[Claim 5]
A content transmission method of a content transmission
apparatus which supplies multi viewpoint video content
configured from a plurality of viewpoint videos imaged at
the same time by a plurality of video cameras different
from each other to a content reproduction apparatus,
comprising:
by the content transmission apparatus,
a generation step of generating a VRT (View Relation
Table) including acquisition destination information of
each of viewpoint videos which configure the multi
viewpoint video content;
SP312140
^J' 4 9
a supplying step of supplying the generated VRT to the
content reproduction apparatus;
a broadcasting step of broadcasting a single one or
plural ones of the viewpoint videos which configure the
retained multi viewpoint video content; and
a distribution step of distributing a single one or
plural ones of the viewpoint videos which configure the
retained video content through a network.
[Claim 6]
A program which causes a computer to function as:
a retention section configured to retain multi viewpoint
video content configured from a plurality of viewpoint
videos imaged at the same time by a plurality of video
cameras different from each other;
a generation section configured to generate a VRT (View
Relation Table) including acquisition destination
information of each of viewpoint videos which configure
the multi viewpoint video content;
a supplying section configured to supply the generated
VRT to a content reproduction apparatus;
a broadcasting section configured to broadcast a single
one or plural ones of the viewpoint videos which
configure the retained multi viewpoint video content; and
a distribution section configured to distribute a single
one or plural ones of the viewpoint videos which
SP312140
;^! 50
configure the retained video content through a network.
[Claim 7]
A content reproduction apparatus which reproduces multi
viewpoint video content configured from a plurality of
viewpoint videos imaged at the same time by a plurality
of video cameras different from each other, comprising:
an acquisition section configured to acquire a VRT (View
Relation Table) including acquisition destination
information of each of viewpoint videos which configure
the multi viewpoint video content;
an inputting section configured to input a viewpoint
moving operation from a user;
a reception section configured to receive, from among a
plurality of viewpoint videos which configure the multi
viewpoint video content, the plurality of viewpoint
videos corresponding to the inputted viewpoint moving
operation based on the VRT; and
a generation section configured to generate a video
corresponding to the viewpoint moving operation based on
the plurality of received viewpoint videos.
[Claim 8]
The content reproduction apparatus according to claim 7,
wherein
the acquired VRT further includes a viewpoint string type
representative of a relation between each of viewpoint
SP312140
videos which configure the video content and a
neighboring viewpoint video imaged in the neighborhood of
the viewpoint video.
[Claim 9]
The content reproduction apparatus according to claim 8,
wherein
the viewpoint string type is one of Panorama, Theater,
Parallel and Separated.
[Claim 10]
The content reproduction apparatus according to claim 9,
wherein
the generation section connects, when the viewpoint
string type of the plurality of received viewpoint videos
is Panorama or Parallel, the plurality of received
viewpoint videos and cuts out a predetermined region to
generate a video corresponding to the viewpoint moving
operation, but
generates, when the viewpoint string type of the
plurality of received viewpoint videos is Theater, a
video corresponding to the viewpoint moving operation by
an interpolation in which the plurality of received
viewpoint videos are used.
[Claim 11]
The content reproduction apparatus according to claim 8,
wherein
SP312140
'^: 52
the reception section receives from a broadcasting signal,
or acquires from a content transmission apparatus through
a communication network, from among a plurality of
viewpoint videos which configure the multi viewpoint
video content, the plurality of viewpoint videos
corresponding to the inputted viewpoint moving operation.
[Claim 12]
The content reproduction apparatus according to claim 8,
wherein
the inputting section includes a viewpoint moving button
corresponding to the viewpoint string type of a
neighboring viewpoint video included in the acquired VRT
and imaged in the neighborhood of each of viewpoint
videos which configure the multi viewpoint video content.
[Claim 13]
A content reproduction method of a content reproduction
apparatus which reproduces multi viewpoint video content
configured from a plurality of viewpoint videos imaged at
the same time by a plurality of video cameras different
from each other, comprising:
by the content reproduction apparatus,
an acquisition step of acquiring a VRT (View Relation
Table) including acquisition destination information of
each of viewpoint videos which configure the multi
viewpoint video content;
SP312140
53
an inputting step of inputting a viewpoint moving
operation from a user;
a reception step of receiving, from among a plurality of
viewpoint videos which configure the multi viewpoint
video content, the plurality of viewpoint videos
corresponding to the inputted viewpoint moving operation
based on the VRT; and
a generation step of generating a video corresponding to
the viewpoint moving operation based on the plurality of
received viewpoint videos.
[Claim 14]
A program for causing a computer, which reproduces multi
viewpoint video content configured from a plurality of
viewpoint videos imaged at the same time by a plurality
of video cameras different from each other, to function
as:
an acquisition section configured to acquire a VRT (View
Relation Table) including acquisition destination
information of each of viewpoint videos which configure
the multi viewpoint video content;
an inputting section configured to input a viewpoint
moving operation from a user;
a reception section configured to receive, from among a
plurality of viewpoint videos which configure the multi
viewpoint video content, the plurality of viewpoint
SP312140
54
videos corresponding to the inputted viewpoint moving
operation based on the VRT; and
a generation section configured to generate a video
corresponding to the viewpoint moving operation based on
the plurality of received viewpoint videos.
[Claim 15]
A content distribution system including a content
transmission apparatus and a content reproduction
apparatus, wherein
the content transmission apparatus includes:
a retention section configured to retain multi viewpoint
video content configured from a plurality of viewpoint
videos imaged at the same time by a plurality of video
cameras different from each other;
a generation section configured to generate a VRT (View
Relation Table) including acquisition destination
information of each of viewpoint videos which configure
the multi viewpoint video content;
a supplying section configured to supply the generated
VRT to the content reproduction apparatus;
a broadcasting section configured to broadcast a single
one or plural ones of the viewpoint videos which
configure the retained multi viewpoint video content; and
a distribution section configured to distribute a single
one or plural ones of the viewpoint videos which
SP312140
55
configure the retained multi viewpoint video content
through a network;
the content reproduction apparatus including:
an acquisition section configured to acquire the VRT;
an inputting section configured to input a viewpoint
moving operation from a user;
a reception section configured to receive, from among a .
plurality of viewpoint videos which configure the multi
viewpoint video content, the plurality of viewpoint
videos corresponding to the inputted viewpoint moving
operation based on the VRT; and
. a generation section configured to generate a video
corresponding to the viewpoint moving operation based on
the plurality of received viewpoint videos.