Issuance system, issuance processing program, and issuance processing method

Abstract

To provide an issuance system and the like for providing a mechanism in which issuance of NFTs (secondary distribution) is appropriately performed while the issuance of the NFTs for speculation purpose is prevented.SOLUTION: An issuance system for non-fungible tokens (NFTs) includes: association means that stores information associating a user and digital content with each other in a storage unit to associate the content with the user; issuance means that issues NFTs corresponding to the content associated with the user while regarding the user as an owner, in a block chain network, in accordance with establishment of a permission condition including the user's consumption of a consideration; and calculation means that calculates the amount of consumption of the consideration every time a predetermined period elapses. The calculation means calculates the amount of consumption of the consideration of the content according to the number of NFTs issued corresponding to the same type of content during a period from the start to the end of at least the immediately previous predetermined period.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 17

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] At least one embodiment of the present invention relates to an issuing system, an issuing processing program, and an issuing processing method. [Background technology]

[0002] In recent years, NFT games (blockchain games) that utilize blockchain technology have begun to be offered (see, for example, Non-Patent Document 1). In NFT games, content such as characters and items used in the game are NFTs (non-fungible tokens). In some cases, there is a set upper limit on the number of NFTs that can be issued, and buying and selling (secondary distribution) between users is actively taking place on marketplaces and the like.

[0003] There is also a configuration in which an NFT is subsequently issued for content (for which an NFT has not yet been issued) acquired by a user (see, for example, Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Non-Patent Document 1] "CRYPTO SPELLS", [online], CryptoGames Inc., [Retrieved March 11, 2024], Internet<URL:https: / / cryptospells.jp / > [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2023-048490 DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] With regard to NFTs such as those mentioned above, many are purchased by users for speculative purposes, so the challenge is to introduce a system that curbs the issuance of NFTs for speculative purposes while ensuring that NFT issuance (secondary distribution) is carried out appropriately.

[0006] It is an object of at least one embodiment of the present invention to address the deficiencies in the related art. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] From a non-limiting perspective, an issuance system according to one embodiment of the present invention is a non-fungible token (hereinafter referred to as NFT) issuance system comprising a plurality of terminal devices used by a plurality of users respectively, and a server device connected to the terminal devices via a communication network, and includes: an association means for associating content with a user by storing information associating the digital content with the user in a memory unit; an issuance means for issuing an NFT corresponding to the content associated with the user in a blockchain network, with the user as the owner, in response to the establishment of permission conditions including the user's consumption of compensation; and a calculation means for calculating the amount of compensation consumed every time a predetermined time elapses, wherein the calculation means calculates the amount of compensation consumed for the content in accordance with at least the number of NFTs issued corresponding to the same type of content between the start and end of the most recent predetermined time.

[0008] From a non-limiting perspective, an issuance processing program according to one embodiment of the present invention is an issuance processing program for causing a computer connected via a communication network to multiple terminal devices used by multiple users, to issue non-fungible tokens (hereinafter referred to as NFTs). By storing information associating digital content with users in a memory unit, the computer is able to realize an association function for associating content with users, an issuance function for issuing NFTs corresponding to content associated with users in a blockchain network, with the users as owners, in accordance with the establishment of permission conditions including the user's consumption of compensation, and a calculation function for calculating the amount of compensation consumed every time a predetermined time elapses. The calculation function realizes a function for calculating the amount of compensation consumed for the content in accordance with at least the number of NFTs issued corresponding to the same type of content between the start and end of the most recent predetermined time.

[0009] From a non-limiting perspective, an issuance processing method according to one embodiment of the present invention is an issuance processing method for causing a computer connected via a communication network to multiple terminal devices used by multiple users, to issue non-fungible tokens (hereinafter referred to as NFTs), and includes an association process for associating content with a user by storing information associating digital content with the user in a memory unit; an issuance process for issuing an NFT corresponding to content associated with the user in a blockchain network, to the user as the owner, in response to the establishment of permission conditions including the user's consumption of compensation; and a calculation process for calculating the amount of compensation consumed every time a predetermined time period has elapsed, wherein the calculation process calculates the amount of compensation consumed for the content in accordance with at least the number of NFTs issued corresponding to the same type of content between the start and end of the most recent predetermined time period. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] Each embodiment of the present application addresses one or more of the deficiencies. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1] 1 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a configuration of an issuing system according to at least one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the transition in the number of issued NFTs corresponding to at least one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a server device according to at least one of the embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 4] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a content association process according to at least one of the embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 5] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an issuing process according to at least one of the embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 6] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a consumption amount calculation process according to at least one of the embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 7]1 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a configuration of an issuing system according to at least one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the transition in the number of issued NFTs corresponding to at least one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a server device according to at least one of the embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 10] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a content association process according to at least one of the embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 11] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an issuing process according to at least one of the embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 12] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a consumption amount calculation process according to at least one of the embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 13] 1 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a configuration of an issuing system according to at least one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 14] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of content according to at least one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 15] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing an example of an NFT corresponding to content corresponding to at least one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 16] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of monthly upper limit data according to at least one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 17] FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the transition in the number of issued NFTs corresponding to at least one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 18] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a server device according to at least one of the embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 19] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of user data according to at least one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 20] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a content association process according to at least one of the embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 21]10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an issuing process according to at least one of the embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 22] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a consumption amount calculation process according to at least one of the embodiments of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0012] Hereinafter, examples of embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that the various components in the examples of the embodiments described below can be combined as appropriate to the extent that no inconsistencies or the like arise. Furthermore, the content described as an example of one embodiment may be omitted in other embodiments. Furthermore, the content of operations and processes unrelated to the characteristic parts of each embodiment may be omitted. Furthermore, the order of the various processes constituting the various flows described below may be in any order to the extent that no inconsistencies or the like arise in the processing content.

[0013] [First embodiment] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of an NFT issuing system 100A, which is an example of the configuration of an NFT issuing system 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 1, the NFT issuing system (system) 100A includes a server device 10A, which is an example of the configuration of a server device 10, and terminal devices 20, 201 to 20N (N is an arbitrary integer) used by multiple users. The server device 10A and the multiple terminal devices 20, 201 to 20N are each connected to a communication network 15 such as the Internet. Note that the configuration of the system 100 is not limited to this, and it may also be configured to include multiple server devices, for example. Alternatively, a virtual server device may be configured using cloud computing.

[0014] The system 100A also includes a blockchain network 30. The blockchain network 30 is a distributed database network made up of multiple nodes (computer devices). In the blockchain network 30, units of data called blocks are generated, and a blockchain (distributed ledger) is stored by linking them together like a chain. An example of the blockchain network 30 is an existing platform such as Ethereum. The blockchain network 30 is capable of generating (issuing) non-fungible tokens (NFTs), trading them (secondary distribution), and the like. Note that blockchain technology, including the issuance and trading of NFTs, is a common configuration, and therefore a detailed description will be omitted.

[0015] Primary distribution (primary sales) means that an NFT is passed from its original owner to a user (third party) without going through another user (in brand new condition). The original owner could be, for example, the creator, issuer, or seller of the NFT. Primary distribution also includes content acquired by a user through purchase or other means, and an NFT corresponding to that content is subsequently issued to that user as the owner. Secondary distribution (secondary sales) means that an NFT that has once been on the market (passed on to another user) is sold again to another user (third party). Secondary distribution also includes tertiary distribution (tertiary sales), quaternary distribution (quaternary sales), etc., in which an NFT is sold to yet another user (third party) after secondary distribution.

[0016] The system 100A has various functions for issuing NFTs corresponding to content associated with users in the blockchain network 30. The owner of the NFT corresponding to the content is the user associated with the content. Hereinafter, the issuance of an NFT corresponding to content may be referred to as converting the content into an NFT.

[0017] The content is digital content (digital assets), such as characters used in a video game (game). For example, there are characters that are allies of the user, characters that are enemies of the user, and the like.

[0018] Content associated with a user is in a state where information associating the content with the user is stored in a storage unit. For example, information associating identification information of the content with identification information of the user is stored in the server device 10 (storage unit). For example, if the content is a character used in a game, the user can use the associated content (character) in the game. In other words, by associating the user with the content, the user is permitted to use the content in the game.

[0019] A user is associated with content by purchasing (obtaining) the content from the server device 10, for example, by consuming legal tender, virtual currency, etc. The content associated with the user is content for which an NFT has not been issued. The server device 10, for example, sells content of the same type for a certain period of time with no upper limit. Content of the same type is content that has the same constituent images, status, etc. For example, content of the same type has the same identification information. In the example of this embodiment, one or more types of content are sold.

[0020] An NFT is issued for content associated with a user when permission conditions are met. An NFT corresponding to content is recorded on the blockchain with metadata and other information associated with a token ID (NFT_ID). The metadata includes information identifying the NFT owner (information identifying the NFT owner), transaction history, and data for the NFT (NFT data). The NFT owner refers to the owner of the associated content. Information identifying the owner (user ID) is information for identifying the owner in the blockchain network 30. The information identifying the owner may be, for example, the wallet address of the owner (user). The wallet address is the address of a wallet (electronic wallet). A wallet is a means for managing tokens. The wallet is, for example, realized by a terminal device of the NFT owner (user).

[0021] NFT data is data of content associated with an NFT. For example, if the content is a character used in a video game, image data of the character would be NFT data. NFT data is managed (stored) in a wallet on the owner's (user's) terminal device, for example. In this case, information identifying the NFT data may be a wallet address, for example.

[0022] The permission condition for issuing an NFT described above includes the user's consumption (payment) of the consideration. In other words, the payment of the NFT issuance fee is included in the permission condition. The consideration can be consumed using, for example, fiat currency, virtual currency, etc. The condition for the user's consumption of the consideration is met when the user pays the set consumption amount of the consideration (amount of the consideration). If the permission condition is only the user's consumption of the consideration, the permission condition is met when the user consumes and pays the consideration.

[0023] In this embodiment, the consumption amount of the consideration (amount of consideration) fluctuates. Specifically, the consumption amount of consideration (amount of consideration) is updated (changed) every time a predetermined time (e.g., 5 minutes) elapses. In other words, the consumption amount of consideration (amount of consideration) is set every predetermined time. The user must pay the consideration according to the set consumption amount when issuing an NFT. The consumption amount of consideration is calculated according to at least the number of NFTs issued corresponding to the same type of content between the start and end of the previous predetermined time. The previous predetermined time is the predetermined time immediately before the calculation of the new consumption amount of consideration.

[0024] For example, the consumption amount of the consideration is calculated based on the number of NFTs issued corresponding to the same type of content between the start and end of the previous specified time. For example, the more NFTs issued corresponding to the same type of content within the previous specified time, the greater the consumption amount of the newly set consideration. Also, for example, if no NFTs corresponding to the same type of content were issued within the previous specified time, the consumption amount of the newly set consideration will decrease.

[0025] A configuration in which the consumption amount of the consideration is calculated according to the number of NFTs issued corresponding to the same type of content between the start and end of the immediately preceding predetermined time period will be described with reference to FIG. 2. FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the transition in the number of NFTs issued for a certain type of content. FIG. 2 shows the transition in the number of NFTs issued for each predetermined time period (5 minutes) from the start of measurement (t=0). Measurement can start, for example, when the content begins to be sold.

[0026] For the time elapsed from the start of measurement: 0 minutes 00 seconds to 5 minutes 00 seconds (predetermined time A1), an initial value (e.g., 100) is set as the consumption amount. This is because there is no previous predetermined time. Therefore, to issue an NFT between the start and end of the predetermined time A1, a consumption amount of 100 is required.

[0027] Next, the consumption amount from 5 minutes 00 seconds (excluding 5 minutes 00 seconds) to 10 minutes 00 seconds (predetermined time A2) is greater than the consumption amount (initial value) for the previous predetermined time A1, because the number of NFTs issued in the previous predetermined time A1 was 5. For example, the consumption amount of consideration set for the predetermined time A1 is 100, and (number of issues: 5) x 10 = 50 is added. As a result, the consumption amount of consideration for the predetermined time A2 is set to 150. Therefore, to issue an NFT between the start and end of the predetermined time A2, a payment of the consumption amount of consideration: 150 is required.

[0028] Furthermore, the consumption amount from the elapsed time 10 minutes 00 seconds (excluding 10 minutes 00 seconds) to 15 minutes 00 seconds (predetermined time A3) will be greater than the consumption amount for the immediately preceding predetermined time A2, because the number of NFTs issued for the immediately preceding predetermined time A2 is 1. For example, the consumption amount of consideration set for the predetermined time A2 is 150, and (number of issues: 1) x 10 = 10 is added. As a result, the consumption amount of consideration for the predetermined time A3 is set to 160. Therefore, to issue an NFT between the start and end of the predetermined time A3, a payment of the consumption amount of consideration: 160 is required.

[0029] On the other hand, the consumption amount from 15 minutes 00 seconds (excluding 15 minutes 00 seconds) to 20 minutes 00 seconds (predetermined time A4) is less than the consumption amount for the immediately preceding predetermined time A3, because the number of NFTs issued for the immediately preceding predetermined time A3 is 0. For example, the consumption amount for the predetermined time A3 is set to 160, and a predetermined amount of 50 is subtracted. As a result, the consumption amount for the predetermined time A4 is set to 110. Therefore, to issue an NFT between the start and end of the predetermined time A4, a payment of the consumption amount of 110 is required.

[0030] Therefore, if the number of NFTs issued in a given period immediately prior to the issuance of NFTs is large (concentrated), such as at the beginning of the issuance of NFTs, the consumption amount of the above-mentioned consideration set next will increase significantly. If the consumption amount increases, the selling price must also increase in order to make a profit from secondary sales of NFTs. However, if the selling price becomes too high, there is a chance that no one will purchase them. Therefore, the issuance of NFTs for speculative purposes will be suppressed. On the other hand, if the number of NFTs issued decreases over time from the beginning of the issuance of NFTs, the consumption amount of consideration will also decrease. Therefore, even users who are not using NFTs for speculative purposes will find it easier to issue NFTs (NFTs will be issued in moderation).

[0031] It is desirable that the consumption amount of the consideration does not decrease below the initial value. In other words, it is desirable that the consumption amount of the consideration is calculated so that the minimum price becomes the initial value. It is also desirable that the consumption amount of the consideration does not increase above a specific amount (for example, 500% of the initial value) relative to the initial value. In this case, the initial value and the specific amount may be stored in the server device 10A (storage unit).

[0032] Next, the server device 10 will be described. The server device 10 is managed by an administrator of the server device, and has various functions for providing the terminal devices 20, 201 to 20N with information regarding the sale of the above-mentioned content (association with users) and the issuance of NFTs. The server device 10 may be, for example, a game server device that controls the progress of a video game executed by the terminal devices 20 to 201, 201N.

[0033] The server device 10 provides, for example, information for generating images related to content (image generation information). The server device 10 is configured by an information processing device such as a WWW server, and includes one or more storage media (storage units) for storing various types of information. The server device 10 also includes a control unit configured by a CPU or the like. Note that the above configuration is a general configuration, so detailed description will be omitted.

[0034] The storage unit may be built into the server device 10, or may be configured as a storage device such as a database device separate from the server device 10. Alternatively, the storage unit may be configured as a blockchain network as a blockchain.

[0035] 3 is a functional block diagram showing the configuration of server device 10A, which is an example of the configuration of server device 10. Server device 10A is equipped with at least an association unit 11, an issuing unit 12, and a calculation unit 13, with the control unit executing software (an issuing processing program) for controlling the progress of issuing NFTs corresponding to content stored in the storage unit. The issuing processing program also includes various types of data.

[0036] The associating unit (associating function, associating means) 11 associates content with a user. Specifically, the associating unit 11 stores information associating content with a user in a storage unit. The information associating content with a user is, for example, information associating content identification information with user identification information. The information associating content identification information with user identification information may be included in user data and stored in the server device 10A (storage unit), for example. The user data is, for example, data related to a user, and is stored for each user (system user ID). The system user ID is user identification information for the system 100A. Furthermore, for example, the information associating content with a user may include information specifying whether an NFT has been issued (NFT information). Note that in the example of this embodiment, NFTing of content is performed only once.

[0037] The associating unit 11 receives, for example, a content purchase request from a user (terminal device 20, 201 to 20N). In response to this, the associating unit 11 performs payment processing (billing processing) using legal currency, virtual currency, etc. held by the user. After the billing processing is completed, the associating unit 11 simply associates the user with the content. The billing processing has a general configuration, so a detailed description will be omitted.

[0038] Information about the content to be sold may be stored in the server device 10A (storage unit). When multiple types of content are sold, an image of a list of the content for sale may be displayed on the terminal device of the user who has made the purchase request, and the user may select the content to purchase.

[0039] The issuing unit (issuing function, issuing means) 12 issues NFTs corresponding to content in the blockchain network 30. NFTs are issued to content associated with a user, and the user is the owner. Issuing an NFT involves recording the location of ownership of the content on the blockchain. In other words, a token ID (NFT_ID) is issued for the content, and a blockchain is generated in which metadata such as content identification information and information specifying the owner is associated with this token ID.

[0040] The issuing unit 12 issues an NFT corresponding to the content if the permission conditions are met. As described above, the permission conditions include the user's consumption (payment) of the consideration. When the user pays the set consumption amount of the consideration (amount of the consideration), the condition for the user's consumption of the consideration is met.

[0041] For example, the issuing unit 12 receives a request to issue an NFT corresponding to content from a user (terminal device 20, 201 to 20N). In response, the issuing unit 12 performs payment processing (billing processing) using legal currency, virtual currency, etc. held by the user. After completing the billing processing for the consumption amount of the set consideration (amount of consideration), the issuing unit 12 transmits a request to issue an NFT corresponding to the content to the blockchain network 30.

[0042] The issuing unit 12 transmits (uploads), for example, an NFT issuance request along with content identification information, information specifying the owner, information specifying the NFT data, etc. to the blockchain network 30. As a result, an NFT corresponding to the content is issued in the blockchain network 30. The issuing unit 12 then sends the NFT corresponding to the content to the wallet (terminal device) of the owner (user). Specifically, the NFT ID, the NFT data, etc. are sent to the owner's wallet.

[0043] The information (user ID) for identifying the owner may be, for example, the wallet address of the user (terminal device). The user ID may be included in the above-mentioned user data and stored in the server device 10A (storage unit).

[0044] The calculation unit (calculation function, calculation means) 13 calculates the consumption amount of the consideration for each predetermined time period. Specifically, the calculation unit 13 calculates the consumption amount of the consideration for the content according to the number of NFTs issued corresponding to the same type of content at least between the start and end of the most recent predetermined time period. In other words, the consumption amount of the consideration for NFTing content by type is calculated each time a predetermined time period elapses. Therefore, the consumption amount may vary depending on the type of content.

[0045] As illustrated in FIG. 2, the calculation unit 13 may calculate the consumption amount of the consideration according to the number of NFTs issued corresponding to the same type of content between the start and end of the immediately preceding predetermined time period. The calculation unit 13 calculates the consumption amount of the consideration for each type of content. For example, the calculated consumption amount is stored in the server device 10A (storage unit) in association with the identification information of the content. That is, the consumption amount of the consideration is stored in the server device 10A (storage unit) for each type of content.

[0046] Furthermore, the calculation unit 13 counts, for example, the number of NFTs issued for each predetermined time period from the start of measurement (the cumulative number of NFTs issued) for each type of content. Specifically, the calculation unit 13 counts the cumulative number of NFTs issued for each predetermined time period, such as the predetermined times A1 and A2 illustrated in FIG. 2, for each type of content. The cumulative number of NFTs issued for each predetermined time period is stored in the server device 10A (storage unit) in association with the content identification information. The date and time at which measurement of the predetermined time period begins may be stored in advance in the server device 10A (storage unit) for each type of content. For example, the content identification information may be associated with the date and time at which measurement begins and stored in the server device 10A (storage unit). Furthermore, the calculation unit 13 may measure time and determine the timing at which a predetermined time period has elapsed since measurement began for each type of content.

[0047] Next, the terminal devices 20, 201 to 20N will be described. Each of the multiple terminal devices 20, 201 to 20N is managed by a user who requests the issuance of an NFT for content, and is configured by a communication-enabled terminal device such as a video game device, a personal computer, a smartphone, or a PDA (Personal Digital Assistant).

[0048] Each of the terminal devices 20, 201 to 20N includes an operation device (operation unit), a storage medium (storage unit), a control unit configured with a CPU and the like, a display unit, an audio output unit (speaker, etc.), a communication control unit, and the like. Note that the above configuration is a general configuration, and therefore detailed description will be omitted. The storage units of the terminal devices 20, 201 to 20N also store software and the like for various communications with the server device 10 regarding the above-mentioned NFT conversion, etc. Note that if the server device 10 is a game server device, for example, the storage units of the terminal devices 20, 201 to 20N may store software (application programs) for executing a game by communicating with the server device 10.

[0049] The terminal devices 20, 201 to 20N generate various images based on, for example, image generation information received from the server device 10. Furthermore, the terminal devices 20, 201 to 20N transmit, for example, various requests input by the user using an operation unit to the server device 10.

[0050] Furthermore, the terminal devices 20, 201 to 20N function as, for example, a wallet. As described above, a wallet is a means for managing owned tokens. An application program for executing the wallet may be stored in the storage unit of each of the terminal devices 20, 201 to 20N.

[0051] In the wallet, NFTs are managed using an NFT ID and the like. In addition, the wallet also stores NFT data, for example, associated with the NFT ID. As described above, NFT data is data such as content associated with the NFT. The terminal devices 20, 201 to 20N can also buy and sell NFTs managed in the wallet in a marketplace (secondary distribution).

[0052] As described above, wallet information (e.g., wallet address, etc.) may be stored in the server device 10A (storage unit) as part of the user data. Also, the server device 10A may be linked to each user's wallet so as to be accessible to the user.

[0053] Next, the operation of the system 100A will be described.

[0054] FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing an example of content association processing executed by the system 100A. In the association processing of the example of this embodiment, processing is performed to associate content (NFT not yet issued) with a user. Note that FIG. 4 mainly describes the processing for associating content with a user, and other processing may be partially omitted. Below, an example will be described in which user P (terminal device 20) is associated with content.

[0055] The content association process in this embodiment begins, for example, when payment processing (billing processing) for content selected by user P (terminal device 20) and desired to be purchased is completed. As described above, the billing processing is executed when a purchase request for the selected content is received from user P (terminal device 20). User P simply selects the content he or she wishes to purchase from a list image of content that can be associated, displayed on terminal device 20. As a result, identification information for the content desired to be purchased and identification information for user P (system user ID) are transmitted from terminal device 20 to server device 10A.

[0056] The server device 10A executes the association process (step S10). In the process of step S10, information associating the content with the user is stored in the storage unit. The information associating the content with the user is, for example, information associating the content identification information with the user identification information. As described above, the server device 10A may include the content identification information in the user data of user P (system user ID) and store this in the storage unit. The above-mentioned NFT information may also be included in the information associating the content with the user. In this case, the server device 10A sets, for example, information in the NFT information that identifies that an NFT has not yet been issued. Thereafter, the server device 10A ends the content association process.

[0057] FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing an example of an NFT issuance process executed by the system 100A. The issuance process in this embodiment is a process for issuing an NFT corresponding to content in the blockchain network 30. Note that FIG. 5 mainly describes the process for issuing an NFT for content associated with a user, and other processes may be partially omitted. Below, an example will be described in which an NFT for content associated with user P (terminal device 20) is issued.

[0058] The issuance process in this embodiment begins when the server device 10A receives an NFT issuance request from user P (terminal device 20), for example. The issuance request includes identification information for the content to be converted into NFT and identification information for user P (user ID for the system). User P simply selects the content they wish to convert into NFT from a list image of content displayed on the terminal device 20. Upon selection, a request to issue an NFT is sent from user P (terminal device 20) to server device 10A. Note that the list image of content is a list image of content (for which NFTs have not been issued) associated with user P.

[0059] The server device 10A executes the billing process (step S20). In the billing process, payment is made in legal tender, virtual currency, or the like held by the user. That is, in the billing process, the fee for issuing the NFT is collected from the user. The server device 10A collects from the user the amount of the fee consumed (amount of the fee) for the content that the user wishes to turn into an NFT. For example, the server device 10A may perform the collection by referring to the amount of the fee consumed (amount of the fee) stored in the storage unit.

[0060] Next, server device 10A determines whether the permission conditions for the content desired to be converted into an NFT are met (step S21). If the permission condition is only the consumption of the above-mentioned consumption amount, it is determined that the permission conditions are met if the charging process in step S20 is completed normally. If the permission conditions are not met (step S21: NO), server device 10A ends the NFT issuance process.

[0061] On the other hand, if the permission condition is met (step S21: YES), the server device 10A executes a request transmission process (step S22). In the request transmission process, an NFT issuance request is sent from the server device 10A to the blockchain network 30. The server device 10A transmits, for example, the identification information of the content desired to be turned into an NFT, information specifying the owner, information specifying the data for the NFT, etc., along with the NFT issuance request to the blockchain network 30.

[0062] Next, the server device 10A determines whether the issuance of the NFT has been completed (step S23). The server device 10A waits until the issuance of the NFT has been completed. When the server device 10A receives information from the blockchain network 30 indicating that the issuance of the NFT has been completed, the server device 10A determines that the issuance of the NFT has been completed.

[0063] If the issuance of the NFT is complete (step S23: YES), the server device 10A executes a completion process (step S24). In the completion process, the server device 10A sends an NFT corresponding to the content to user P's wallet (terminal device 20). Specifically, the NFT ID, NFT data, and the like are sent to the user's wallet. The server device 10A also sets, for example, information specifying that the NFT has been issued in the NFT conversion information for the content. The server device 10A also updates, for example, the cumulative number of NFTs issued per predetermined time period for each type of content. The server device 10A may also, for example, send a notification that the NFT issuance has been completed to user P (terminal device 20). Thereafter, the server device 10A ends the NFT issuance process.

[0064] Although the processes shown in FIGS. 4 and 5 have been described with respect to the terminal device 20, similar processes are also performed for other users (terminal devices).

[0065] 6 is a flowchart showing an example of a consumption calculation process executed by the system 100A. The consumption calculation process in this embodiment is a process for calculating the consumption amount of the consideration for issuing an NFT corresponding to content. Note that FIG. 6 mainly describes the process for calculating the consumption amount of the consideration, and other processes may be partially omitted.

[0066] The consumption calculation process in this embodiment is executed, for example, for each type of content when a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of measurement. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 2, the consumption calculation process is executed when a predetermined time A1 (5 minutes and 00 seconds) has elapsed since the start of measurement for a certain type of content, and the consumption of the consideration for the predetermined time A2 is calculated. Also, the consumption calculation process is executed when a predetermined time A2 (10 minutes and 00 seconds) has elapsed since the start of measurement for a certain type of content, and the consumption of the consideration for the predetermined time A3 is calculated.

[0067] The server device 10A executes an acquisition process (step S30). In the acquisition process, the number of issued NFTs corresponding to the type of content to be calculated is acquired. The number of issued NFTs is, for example, the number of issued NFTs in the immediately preceding specified time period (cumulative number of issued NFTs). For example, in the case of calculating the amount of consideration consumed in the specified time period A2 illustrated in FIG. 2, the number of issued NFTs in the immediately preceding specified time period A1 (cumulative number of issued NFTs): 5 is acquired. The server device 10A can acquire the cumulative number of issued NFTs in the immediately preceding specified time period from the memory unit.

[0068] Next, the server device 10A executes a calculation process (step S31). In the calculation process, the consumption amount of the consideration for the content of the type to be calculated is calculated according to the number of issues acquired in the above-mentioned acquisition process. For example, in the case of calculating the consumption amount of the consideration for the predetermined time A2 illustrated in FIG. 2, the number of issues: 5×10=50 is added to the consumption amount of the consideration set for the predetermined time A1: 100 (initial value). As a result, the consumption amount of the consideration for the predetermined time A2: 150 is calculated.

[0069] Next, the server device 10A executes an update process (step S32). In the update process, the price consumption amount of the content of the type to be calculated is updated to the price consumption amount calculated in the process of step S31. For example, the server device 10A may update (change) the price consumption amount associated with the content identification information in the storage unit to the newly calculated consumption amount. Thereafter, the server device 10A ends the consumption amount calculation process. Note that if an initial value such as the predetermined time A1 illustrated in FIG. 2 is set as the price consumption amount, the above-described acquisition process and update process are not executed, and only the update process is executed to set the initial value as the price consumption amount.

[0070] As described above, as one aspect of the first embodiment, the issuing system 100A is configured to include the association unit 11, the issuing unit 12, and the calculation unit 13, so that an NFT corresponding to content is issued when permission conditions, including the user's consumption of compensation, are met. The amount of compensation consumed varies depending on at least the number of NFTs issued in the immediately preceding predetermined period of time, so NFTs are issued appropriately while suppressing the issuance of NFTs for speculative purposes.

[0071] In the above-described embodiment, the configuration was described in which the amount of consideration consumed is calculated based on the number of NFTs issued corresponding to content in the immediately preceding predetermined time. However, the amount of consideration consumed need only be calculated based on at least the number of NFTs issued corresponding to content in the immediately preceding predetermined time. For example, when calculating the amount of consideration consumed for the predetermined time A3 illustrated in FIG. 2, the calculation may be based on the number of NFTs issued in the predetermined time A1 and the number of NFTs issued in the predetermined time A2. Furthermore, the formula for calculating the amount of consideration consumed is not limited to the above-described example, and any calculation method may be applied.

[0072] In the above-described embodiment, the permission condition was only one condition (the user's consumption of compensation), but multiple conditions may be included. For example, the permission condition may include conditions A, B, and C. In this case, if any one of conditions A, B, and C is met, the permission condition may be met and an NFT may be issued. Alternatively, if all of conditions A, B, and C are met, the permission condition may be met and an NFT may be issued. Furthermore, the permission condition may be changed periodically.

[0073] In the above embodiment, a sales period is set for the content, but this need not be the case. Also, an upper limit may be set for the number of pieces of the same type of content that can be associated with a user.

[0074] In the above-described embodiment, the measurement of the predetermined time for the same type of content may start at least after the content is released, that is, after it becomes possible to associate a user with the content.

[0075] In the example of the embodiment described above, the amount of consideration consumed varies for all types of content that can be converted into NFTs, but this is not particularly limited. For example, the amount of consideration consumed for NFTing some types of content may vary. Furthermore, for example, a configuration may be adopted in which the amount of consideration consumed varies until a certain period of time (e.g., one year) has passed since the start of sales of the content, and after the certain period of time (e.g., one year) has passed, the amount of consideration consumed may be set to a fixed value. In this case, the calculation unit measures time from the start of sales of the content until the certain period of time (e.g., one year) has passed. Furthermore, the calculation unit may set a fixed value for the amount of consideration consumed after the certain period of time (e.g., one year) has passed. The fixed value may be, for example, the initial value described above.

[0076] In the above-described embodiment, when an NFT corresponding to content is issued, a reward (incentive) may be given to the creator of the content. For example, a portion of the collected payment may be given to the creator of the NFTized content.

[0077] The issuing unit in the example embodiment described above may be configured to either make an issuance request as described above and have the blockchain network issue an NFT, or to issue an NFT itself.

[0078] In the above-described embodiment, the server device functions as the association unit, the issuance unit, and the calculation unit, but this is not particularly limited. For example, instead of the server device, all or part of the association unit, the issuance unit, and the calculation unit may be realized by a blockchain network. Also, for example, the server device may be a node that constitutes the blockchain network.

[0079] In the above-described embodiment, the operator of the server device and the operator of the blockchain network may be different or the same.

[0080] [Second embodiment] 7 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of an issuing system 100B, which is an example of the configuration of the issuing system 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention. The system 100B includes a server device 10B, a plurality of terminal devices 20, 201 to 20N, and a blockchain network 30.

[0081] In the example of this embodiment, the amount of consideration consumed (the amount of consideration) for issuing NFTs corresponding to content is also updated (changed) every time a predetermined time (e.g., 5 minutes) elapses. In the example of this embodiment, the amount of consideration consumed is calculated according to the number of NFTs issued corresponding to the same type of content between the start and end of the previous predetermined time (the cumulative number of NFTs issued). Specifically, if the number of NFTs issued during the previous predetermined time is equal to or greater than a predetermined number, the amount of consideration consumed increases according to the number of NFTs issued. The predetermined number is, for example, 1. That is, if the number of NFTs issued during the previous predetermined time is 1 (predetermined number) or greater, the newly calculated amount of consideration consumed increases compared to the previous amount. On the other hand, if the number of NFTs issued during the previous predetermined time is less than a predetermined number, the amount of consideration consumed decreases by a predetermined amount. That is, if the number of NFTs issued is less than 1 (predetermined number), the newly calculated amount of consideration consumed decreases compared to the previous amount. If the number of NFTs issued is less than 1 (predetermined number), this corresponds to the case where the number of NFTs issued is 0. The previous predetermined time is the predetermined time immediately preceding the calculation of the new amount of consideration consumed.

[0082] For example, the consumption amount of the consideration is calculated using the following calculation formulas (1) and (2).

[0083] Consumption = PUT×K PNI ·····(1) Consumption = PUT×Q (2) "PUT" is the amount of consideration consumed in the immediately preceding specified time. "PNI" is the number of NFTs issued (cumulative number of issues) in the immediately preceding specified time. "K" is a constant, and K>1. For example, K=1.1 will be used. Calculation formula (1) is applied when the number of issues (PNI) is 1 (predetermined number) or greater. Calculation formula (2) is applied when the number of issues (PNI) is less than 1 (predetermined number). "Q" is a constant, and Q<1. For example, Q=0.995 will be used. In this case, if the number of issues is 0, the newly calculated amount of consideration consumed will be reduced by a predetermined amount (for example, 0.005%) from the previous amount consumed. The values ​​of the above-mentioned predetermined number, constant, etc. may be stored in the server device 10B (storage unit).

[0084] The calculation of the consumption amount of the consideration will be explained with reference to FIG. 8. FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the transition in the number of issued NFTs for a certain type of content. FIG. 8 shows the transition in the number of issued NFTs for each predetermined time (5 minutes) from the start of measurement (t=0). The timing for starting measurement may be, for example, when the content begins to be sold.

[0085] For the time elapsed from the start of measurement: 0 minutes 00 seconds to 5 minutes 00 seconds (predetermined time B1), an initial value (e.g., 100) is set as the consumption amount. This is because there is no previous predetermined time. Therefore, to issue an NFT between the start and end of the predetermined time B1, a consumption amount of 100 must be paid.

[0086] Next, the consumption amount from the elapsed time 5 minutes 00 seconds (excluding 5 minutes 00 seconds) to 10 minutes 00 seconds (predetermined time B2) is the number of NFTs issued (PNI) in the immediately preceding predetermined time B1, which is 10. Also, the consumption amount of consideration (PUT) in the immediately preceding predetermined time B1 is 100. Therefore, calculation formula (1) is applied. Specifically, the consumption amount of consideration in the predetermined time B2 is set to 260 as shown below. Note that the calculation result is rounded up. Therefore, to issue an NFT from the start to the end of the predetermined time B2, a payment of the consumption amount of consideration: 260 is required.

[0087] Consumption = 100×1.1 10 =260

[0088] Furthermore, for the consumption amount between the elapsed time of 10 minutes 00 seconds (excluding 10 minutes 00 seconds) and 15 minutes 00 seconds (predetermined time B3), the number of NFTs issued (PNI) in the immediately preceding predetermined time B2 is 1. Furthermore, the consumption amount of consideration (PUT) in the immediately preceding predetermined time B2 is 260. Therefore, calculation formula (1) is applied. Specifically, the consumption amount of consideration in the predetermined time B3 is set to 286 as follows. Therefore, the issuance of an NFT between the start and end of the predetermined time B3 requires the payment of the consumption amount of consideration: 286.

[0089] Consumption = 260×1.1 1 =286

[0090] On the other hand, for the consumption amount between 15 minutes 00 seconds (excluding 15 minutes 00 seconds) and 20 minutes 00 seconds (predetermined time B4), the number of NFTs issued (PNI) in the immediately preceding predetermined time B3 is 0. Also, the amount of consideration consumed (PUT) in the immediately preceding predetermined time B3 is 286. Therefore, calculation formula (2) is applied. Specifically, the amount of consideration consumed in the predetermined time B4 is set to 285 as shown below. Note that the calculation result is rounded up. Therefore, to issue an NFT between the start and end of the predetermined time B4, a payment of the amount of consideration consumed: 285 is required.

[0091] Consumption amount=286×0.995=285

[0092] Therefore, if the number of NFTs issued in a given period immediately prior to the issuance of NFTs is large (concentrated), such as at the beginning of the issuance of NFTs, the consumption amount of the above-mentioned consideration set next will increase significantly. If the consumption amount increases, the selling price must also increase in order to make a profit from secondary sales of NFTs. However, if the selling price becomes too high, there is a chance that no one will purchase them. Therefore, the issuance of NFTs for speculative purposes will be suppressed. On the other hand, if the number of NFTs issued decreases over time from the beginning of the issuance of NFTs, the consumption amount of consideration will also decrease. Therefore, even users who are not using NFTs for speculative purposes will find it easier to issue NFTs (NFTs will be issued in moderation).

[0093] It is desirable that the consumption amount of the consideration does not decrease below the initial value. In other words, it is desirable that the consumption amount of the consideration is calculated so that the minimum price becomes the initial value. It is also desirable that the consumption amount of the consideration does not increase beyond 500% of the initial value. In this case, the initial value and the specific amount may be stored in the server device 10B (storage unit). It is also not necessary to round up decimals in the calculation result.

[0094] 9 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a server device 10B, which is an example of the server device 10. In this embodiment, the server device 10B includes at least an association unit 11, an issuing unit 12, and a calculation unit 13B.

[0095] The associating unit 11 associates content with a user. Specifically, the associating unit 11 stores information associating content with a user in a storage unit. The information associating content with a user is, for example, information associating content identification information with user identification information. The information associating content identification information with user identification information may be included in user data and stored in the server device 10B (storage unit). Furthermore, for example, the information associating content with a user may include information specifying whether an NFT has been issued (NFT information). Note that in the example of this embodiment, content is NFTed only once.

[0096] The associating unit 11 receives, for example, a content purchase request from a user (terminal device 20, 201 to 20N). In response to this, the associating unit 11 performs payment processing (billing processing) using legal currency, virtual currency, etc. held by the user. After the billing processing is completed, the associating unit 11 may associate the user with the content.

[0097] Information about the content to be sold may be stored in the server device 10B (storage unit). When multiple types of content are sold, an image of a list of the content for sale may be displayed on the terminal device of the user who has made the purchase request, and the user may select the content to purchase.

[0098] The issuing unit 12 issues an NFT corresponding to content in the blockchain network 30. An NFT is issued for content associated with a user, and the user is the owner. Issuing an NFT involves recording the location of ownership of the content on the blockchain. In other words, a token ID (NFT_ID) is issued for the content, and a blockchain is generated in which metadata such as content identification information and information specifying the owner are associated with this token ID.

[0099] The issuing unit 12 issues an NFT corresponding to the content if the permission conditions are met. As described above, the permission conditions include the user's consumption (payment) of the consideration. When the user pays the set consumption amount of the consideration (amount of the consideration), the condition for the user's consumption of the consideration is met.

[0100] For example, the issuing unit 12 receives a request to issue an NFT corresponding to content from a user (terminal device 20, 201 to 20N). In response, the issuing unit 12 performs payment processing (billing processing) using legal currency, virtual currency, etc. held by the user. After completing the billing processing for the consumption amount of the set consideration (amount of consideration), the issuing unit 12 transmits a request to issue an NFT corresponding to the content to the blockchain network 30.

[0101] The issuing unit 12 transmits (uploads), for example, an NFT issuance request along with content identification information, information specifying the owner, information specifying the NFT data, etc. to the blockchain network 30. As a result, an NFT corresponding to the content is issued in the blockchain network 30. The issuing unit 12 then sends the NFT corresponding to the content to the wallet (terminal device) of the owner (user). Specifically, the NFT ID, the NFT data, etc. are sent to the owner's wallet.

[0102] The information (user ID) for identifying the owner may be, for example, the wallet address of the user (terminal device). The user ID may be included in the above-mentioned user data and stored in the server device 10B (storage unit).

[0103] The calculation unit 13B calculates the consumption amount of the consideration for each predetermined time period. Specifically, the calculation unit 13B calculates the consumption amount of the consideration for the content according to the number of NFTs issued corresponding to the same type of content between the start and end of the previous predetermined time period. In other words, the consumption amount of the consideration for NFTing content by type is calculated each time a predetermined time period elapses. Therefore, the consumption amount may vary depending on the type of content.

[0104] The calculation unit 13B may use, for example, calculation formulas (1) and (2) to calculate the consumption amount of the consideration according to the number of NFTs issued corresponding to the same type of content between the start and end of the immediately preceding predetermined time period. The calculation unit 13B calculates the consumption amount of the consideration for each type of content. For example, the calculated consumption amount is stored in the server device 10B (storage unit) in association with the identification information of the content. That is, the consumption amount of the consideration is stored in the server device 10B (storage unit) for each type of content.

[0105] Furthermore, the calculation unit 13B counts, for example, the number of NFTs issued per predetermined time from the start of measurement (the cumulative number of NFTs issued) for each type of content. Specifically, the calculation unit 13B counts the cumulative number of NFTs issued for each predetermined time, such as the predetermined times B1 and B2 illustrated in FIG. 8, for each type of content. The cumulative number of NFTs issued for each predetermined time is stored in the server device 10B (storage unit) in association with the content identification information. Note that, with regard to the number of NFTs issued for each predetermined time, only the number issued for the immediately preceding predetermined time may be stored in the server device 10B (storage unit). Furthermore, the date and time at which measurement of the predetermined time begins may be stored in advance in the server device 10B (storage unit) for each type of content. For example, the content identification information and the date and time at which measurement begins may be associated and stored in the server device 10B (storage unit). Furthermore, the calculation unit 13B may measure time and determine, for each type of content, when a predetermined time has elapsed since measurement began.

[0106] FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing an example of content association processing executed by system 100B. In the association processing of this embodiment, processing is performed to associate non-NFT content with a user. Note that FIG. 10 mainly describes the processing for associating content with a user, and other processing may be partially omitted. Below, an example will be described in which user P (terminal device 20) is associated with content.

[0107] The content association process in this embodiment begins, for example, when the payment process (billing process) for the content selected and desired to be purchased by user P (terminal device 20) is completed. As described above, the billing process is executed when a purchase request for the selected content is received from the user (terminal device 20). User P simply selects the content they wish to purchase from an image of a list of content for which NFTs can be issued, displayed on the terminal device 20. As a result, identification information for the content desired to be purchased and identification information for user P (system user ID) are transmitted from the terminal device 20 to the server device 10B.

[0108] The server device 10B executes the association process (step S10). In the process of step S10, information associating the content with the user is stored in the storage unit. The information associating the content with the user is, for example, information associating the content identification information with the user identification information. As described above, the server device 10B may store the content identification information in the storage unit by including it in the user data of user P (user ID for the system). Furthermore, the above-mentioned NFT information may be included in the information associating the content with the user. In this case, the server device 10B sets, for example, information in the NFT information that identifies that an NFT has not been issued. Thereafter, the server device 10B ends the content association process.

[0109] FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing an example of an NFT issuance process executed by the system 100B. The issuance process in this embodiment is a process for issuing an NFT corresponding to content in the blockchain network 30. Note that FIG. 11 mainly describes the process for issuing an NFT for content associated with a user, and some other processes may be omitted. Below, an example will be described in which an NFT for content associated with user P (terminal device 20) is issued.

[0110] The issuance process in this embodiment begins when the server device 10B receives an NFT issuance request from user P (terminal device 20), for example. The issuance request includes identification information for the content to be converted into NFT and identification information for user P (user ID for the system). The user simply selects the content they wish to convert into NFT from a list image of content displayed on the terminal device 20. Upon selection, a request to issue an NFT is sent from user P (terminal device 20) to server device 10B. Note that the list image of content is a list image of content (for which NFTs have not been issued) associated with user P.

[0111] The server device 10B executes the billing process (step S20). In the billing process, payment is made in legal tender, virtual currency, or the like held by the user. That is, in the billing process, the fee for issuing the NFT is collected from the user. The server device 10B collects from the user P the amount of the fee consumed (amount of the fee) for the content that the user wishes to turn into an NFT. For example, the server device 10B may perform the collection by referring to the amount of the fee consumed (amount of the fee) stored in the storage unit.

[0112] Next, the server device 10B determines whether the permission conditions for the content desired to be converted into an NFT are met (step S21). If the permission condition is only the consumption of the price of the consumption amount, it is determined that the permission conditions are met if the charging process in step S20 is completed normally. If the permission conditions are not met (step S21: NO), the server device 10B ends the NFT issuance process.

[0113] On the other hand, if the permission condition is met (step S21: YES), the server device 10B executes a request transmission process (step S22). In the request transmission process, an NFT issuance request is sent from the server device 10B to the blockchain network 30. The server device 10B transmits, for example, the identification information of the content desired to be turned into an NFT, information specifying the owner, information specifying the data for the NFT, etc., along with the NFT issuance request to the blockchain network 30.

[0114] Next, the server device 10B determines whether the issuance of the NFT has been completed (step S23). The server device 10B waits until the issuance of the NFT has been completed. When the server device 10B receives information from the blockchain network 30 indicating that the issuance of the NFT has been completed, the server device 10B determines that the issuance of the NFT has been completed.

[0115] If the issuance of the NFT is complete (step S23: YES), the server device 10B executes a completion process (step S24). In the completion process, the server device 10B sends the NFT corresponding to the content to user P's wallet (terminal device 20). Specifically, the NFT ID, NFT data, and the like are sent to user P's wallet. The server device 10B also sets, for example, information specifying that the NFT has been issued in the NFT conversion information for the content. The server device 10B also updates, for example, the cumulative number of NFTs issued per predetermined time period for each type of content. The server device 10B may also, for example, send a notification that the NFT has been issued to user P (terminal device 20). Thereafter, the server device 10B ends the NFT issuance process.

[0116] Although the processes shown in FIGS. 10 and 11 have been described with respect to the terminal device 20, similar processes are also performed for other users (terminal devices).

[0117] 12 is a flowchart showing an example of a consumption amount calculation process executed by the system 100B. The consumption amount calculation process in this embodiment is a process for calculating the consumption amount of the consideration for issuing an NFT corresponding to content. Note that FIG. 12 mainly describes the process for calculating the consumption amount of the consideration, and other processes may be partially omitted.

[0118] The consumption calculation process in this embodiment is executed, for example, for each type of content when a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of measurement. For example, as illustrated in Fig. 8, the consumption calculation process is executed when a predetermined time B1 (5 minutes and 00 seconds) has elapsed since the start of measurement for a certain type of content, and the consumption of the consideration for the predetermined time B2 is calculated. Also, the consumption calculation process is executed when a predetermined time B2 (10 minutes and 00 seconds) has elapsed since the start of measurement for a certain type of content, and the consumption of the consideration for the predetermined time B3 is calculated.

[0119] The server device 10B executes an acquisition process (step S30-B). In the acquisition process, the number of issued NFTs corresponding to the type of content to be calculated is acquired. The number of issued NFTs is the number issued in the immediately preceding specified time period (cumulative number of issued NFTs). For example, in the case of calculating the amount of consideration consumed in the specified time period B2 illustrated in FIG. 8, the number of issued NFTs in the immediately preceding specified time period B1 (cumulative number of issued NFTs): 10 is acquired. The server device 10B can acquire the cumulative number of issued NFTs in the immediately preceding specified time period from the storage unit.

[0120] Next, the server device 10B executes a calculation process (step S31-B). In the calculation process, the amount of consideration consumed for the content type to be calculated is calculated according to the number of issues acquired in the acquisition process described above. Specifically, if the number of NFTs issued is equal to or greater than a predetermined number, the amount of consideration consumed for issuing NFTs corresponding to the content is increased according to the number of NFTs issued. On the other hand, if the number of NFTs issued is less than the predetermined number, the amount of consideration consumed for issuing NFTs corresponding to the content is decreased by a predetermined amount. For example, the amount of consideration consumed is calculated using the above-described calculation formulas (1) and (2).

[0121] Next, the server device 10B executes an update process (step S32). In the update process, the price consumption amount of the content of the type to be calculated is updated to the price consumption amount calculated in the process of step S31-B. For example, the server device 10B may update (change) the price consumption amount associated with the content identification information in the storage unit to the newly calculated consumption amount. Thereafter, the server device 10B ends the consumption amount calculation process. Note that if an initial value such as the predetermined time B1 illustrated in FIG. 8 is set as the price consumption amount, the above-described acquisition process and update process are not executed, and only the update process is executed to set the initial value as the price consumption amount.

[0122] As described above, as one aspect of the second embodiment, the issuing system 100B is configured to include the association unit 11, the issuing unit 12, and the calculation unit 13B, so that an NFT corresponding to content is issued when permission conditions, including the user's consumption of compensation, are met. The amount of compensation consumed varies depending on at least the number of NFTs issued in the immediately preceding predetermined period, so NFTs are issued appropriately while suppressing the issuance of NFTs for speculative purposes.

[0123] In the above-described embodiment, the configuration was described in which the amount of consideration consumed is calculated according to the number of NFTs issued corresponding to content in the immediately preceding predetermined time. However, the amount of consideration consumed need only be calculated according to at least the number of NFTs issued corresponding to content in the immediately preceding predetermined time. When calculating the amount of consideration consumed for the predetermined time B3 illustrated in FIG. 8, the calculation may be based on the number of NFTs issued in the predetermined time B1 and the number of NFTs issued in the predetermined time B2. Furthermore, the formula for calculating the amount of consideration consumed is not limited to the above-described example, and any calculation method may be applied.

[0124] In the above-described embodiment, the permission condition was only one condition (the user's consumption of compensation), but multiple conditions may be included. For example, the permission condition may include conditions A, B, and C. In this case, if any one of conditions A, B, and C is met, the permission condition may be met and an NFT may be issued. Alternatively, if all of conditions A, B, and C are met, the permission condition may be met and an NFT may be issued. Furthermore, the permission condition may be changed periodically.

[0125] In the above embodiment, a sales period is set for the content, but this need not be the case. Also, an upper limit may be set for the number of pieces of the same type of content that can be associated with a user.

[0126] In the above-described embodiment, the measurement of the predetermined time for the same type of content may start at least after the content is released, that is, after it becomes possible to associate a user with the content.

[0127] In the example of the embodiment described above, the amount of consideration consumed varies for all types of content that can be converted into NFTs, but this is not particularly limited. For example, the amount of consideration consumed for NFTing some types of content may vary. Furthermore, for example, a configuration may be adopted in which the amount of consideration consumed varies until a certain period of time (e.g., one year) has passed since the start of sales of the content, and after the certain period of time (e.g., one year) has passed, the amount of consideration consumed may be set to a fixed value. In this case, the calculation unit measures time from the start of sales of the content until the certain period of time (e.g., one year) has passed. Furthermore, the calculation unit may set a fixed value for the amount of consideration consumed after the certain period of time (e.g., one year) has passed. The fixed value may be, for example, the initial value described above.

[0128] In the above-described embodiment, when an NFT corresponding to content is issued, a reward (incentive) may be given to the creator of the content. For example, a portion of the collected payment may be given to the creator of the NFTized content.

[0129] The issuing unit in the example embodiment described above may be configured to either make an issuance request as described above and have the blockchain network issue an NFT, or to issue an NFT itself.

[0130] In the above-described embodiment, the server device functions as the association unit, the issuance unit, and the calculation unit, but this is not particularly limited. For example, instead of the server device, all or part of the association unit, the issuance unit, and the calculation unit may be realized by a blockchain network. Also, for example, the server device may be a node that constitutes the blockchain network.

[0131] In the above-described embodiment, the operator of the server device and the operator of the blockchain network may be different or the same.

[0132] [Third embodiment] 13 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of an issuing system 100C, which is an example of the configuration of the issuing system 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention. The system 100C includes a server device 10C, a plurality of terminal devices 20-C, 201-C to 20N-C, and a blockchain network 30. The system 100C in this embodiment also corresponds to a video game system.

[0133] In this embodiment, the server device 10C also functions as a video game progress control unit. The server device 10C has various functions for providing information about the progress of the video game (game) to the terminal devices 20-C, 201-C to 20N-C, etc. by executing a video game processing program (including an issuing processing program). In other words, the server device 10C also corresponds to a game server device.

[0134] The server device 10C stores, for example, user data of a game (game system) in a storage unit. The user data is, for example, data related to the user's game, and is stored for each user (game user ID). For example, the user data records information about content purchased (acquired) in the game (see FIG. 19). The server device 10C updates the user data based on the user's progress in the game. Note that the user data may also be stored in the user's own terminal device.

[0135] In this embodiment, a game is provided in which virtual content (digital content) is moved through a game space (e.g., a dungeon) and pitted against enemies. As shown in FIG. 14, the content is a virtual object in the form of a painting that includes a character. FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a content CT. In the game, the character engages in battles and other activities. For example, the content CT is composed of image data of a painting CT-I that includes the character, status (attack power, etc.) CT-S data, and the like. The status is data related to the character, and includes parameters such as rarity, vitality (HP), and attack power (ATK). Rarity is an attribute included in the status of the content and indicates the rarity of the content. In this embodiment, there are three types of rarity: (R), (E), and (L). Rarity (R) is the least rare, and rarity (L) is the rarest. The status also includes information on whether or not NFTs can be issued. The content CT is set to allow NFTs to be issued.

[0136] The data (status, etc.) related to the content is also stored in the server device 10C (storage unit) in association with the identification information (content ID) of the content.

[0137] The server device 10C also accepts content purchases from users within the game. For example, the content may be sold in the form of a so-called blind pack. When the server device 10C receives a content purchase request from the user's terminal device, it performs a billing process and updates the user data. Specifically, identification information for the purchased content is added to the user data. This associates the purchased content with the user. The user can use the associated content (character) in battles within the game, etc. Note that the purchased content is content for which an NFT has not yet been issued. When permission conditions are met within the game, the server device 10C executes processing to issue an NFT corresponding to the content associated with the user. The permission conditions will be described later.

[0138] The storage units of the terminal devices 20-C, 201-C to 20N-C store software (application programs) and the like for executing games by communicating with the server device 10C. The terminal devices 20-C, 201-C to 20N-C generate game images based on, for example, image generation information received from the server device 10C. The terminal devices 20-C, 201-C to 20N-C also transmit, for example, various requests input by users using the operation units to the server device 10C. Specifically, the terminal devices 20-C, 201-C to 20N-C transmit, for example, content purchase requests input by users using the operation units to the server device 10C. The terminal devices 20-C, 201-C to 20N-C also transmit, for example, NFT issuance requests input by users using the operation units to the server device 10C.

[0139] The terminal devices 20-C, 201-C to 20N-C also function as wallets. The wallet of a user's terminal device manages NFTs owned by that user. The wallet also stores NFT data in association with the NFT_ID.

[0140] FIG. 15 is a schematic diagram showing an example of an NFT corresponding to content CT corresponding to at least one of the embodiments of the present invention. FIG. 15 shows an NFT of the content CT exemplified in FIG. 14. For an NFT corresponding to content, metadata and the like associated with a token ID (NFT_ID) are recorded on the blockchain. The metadata includes the content ID, the NFT owner (information identifying the NFT owner), information identifying the NFT data, transaction history, and the like. The content ID is set with identification information for the content. The NFT owner refers to the owner of the associated content. The identification information (user ID) of the information identifying the owner is the wallet address of the owner (user).

[0141] NFT data is data of content associated with an NFT. For example, image data of a painting CT-I in content CT, data of status CT-S, etc., correspond to NFT data. NFT data is managed (stored) in the wallet of the owner's (user's) terminal device. In this case, information identifying the NFT data is, for example, a wallet address. Transaction history is a history of secondary distribution of content ownership, and includes identification information (user ID) of the content transferor and transferee.

[0142] Next, the permission conditions will be described. As described above, when the permission conditions are met, an NFT corresponding to the content associated with the user is issued.

[0143] The permission conditions include the following conditions S-1 to S-6: If all of the conditions S-1 to S-6 are met, the permission conditions are met.

[0144] (S-1) The lock period has elapsed. (S-2) Intimacy level is above a certain level (S-3) NFTs issued must be less than the maximum number per user. (S-4) Content that can be issued as an NFT (S-5) Consumption of the set consumption amount (S-6) NFTs issued per unit time must be less than the upper limit.

[0145] Condition S-1 is met when the prohibition period (lock period) for issuing NFTs for the content has elapsed. The lock period is, for example, the same period as the purchase period for the content (for which NFTs have not yet been issued). The purchase period is the period during which a user can be associated with the content. The lock period (purchase period) is set for each type of content. The lock period (purchase period) is stored in the server device 10C (storage unit).

[0146] Condition S-2 is met when the intimacy level (Lv) between the user and the content for which an NFT is to be issued is equal to or greater than a predetermined level. The intimacy level is a numerical value that increases depending on the user's use of the content in the game. The intimacy level is initially set to 0. For example, the more a user uses a content and clears various dungeons, the higher the intimacy level for the content. In other words, the intimacy level is a numerical value that indicates the user's use of the content. The intimacy level is associated with each piece of content associated with the user. Points earned by clearing dungeons are awarded to the content used by the user. The intimacy level increases each time the cumulative value of these points exceeds a predetermined value. The predetermined level is, for example, 10. Therefore, condition C2 is not met for content not used in the game, and an NFT is not issued. The intimacy level and points are stored in the server device 10C (storage unit) as part of the user data.

[0147] The intimacy level Lv of the condition S-2 being equal to or higher than a predetermined level corresponds to a condition regarding the usage status by the user of the content associated with the user in the game.

[0148] Condition S-3 is met when the current issuance of NFTs is equal to or less than the upper limit of NFTs issuance set for each user (user-specific upper limit). For example, a maximum number of NFTs issuance per unit period (e.g., per month) is set for each user. The upper limit is also set for each rarity. In the example of this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 16, a user-specific monthly upper limit (monthly upper limit) common to all users is stored in the server device 10C (storage unit). For example, a user is limited to issuing eight or less NFTs per month for content of rarity (R). The server device 10C counts the number of NFTs issued by each user for the current month (monthly issuance number) by rarity and records it in each user data (see FIG. 19). Note that the upper limit may be set to a different value for each user.

[0149] Condition S-4 is met when the content is eligible for NFT issuance. In this embodiment, some of the multiple types of content are set to not allow NFT issuance. As described above, the availability of NFTs can be determined by referring to the information included in the content status.

[0150] Condition S-5 is met when the set consumption amount of consideration is consumed (paid) by the user who wishes to convert the NFT. In other words, it is a condition for payment of the NFT issuance fee. The consideration can be consumed using, for example, legal tender or virtual currency. The consumption amount of consideration (amount of consideration) is updated (changed) every predetermined time (5 minutes).

[0151] In this embodiment, the consumption amount of the consideration is calculated according to the number of NFTs issued corresponding to the same type of content between the start and end of the immediately preceding predetermined time (the cumulative number of issued NFTs). Specifically, if the number of issues during the immediately preceding predetermined time is equal to or greater than a predetermined number, the consumption amount of the consideration increases according to the number of issues. The predetermined number is, for example, 1. That is, if the number of issues is equal to or greater than 1 (predetermined number), the newly calculated consumption amount of the consideration increases compared to the previous consumption amount. On the other hand, if the number of issues during the immediately preceding predetermined time is less than a predetermined number, the consumption amount of the consideration decreases by a predetermined amount. That is, if the number of issues is less than 1 (predetermined number), the newly calculated consumption amount of the consideration decreases compared to the previous consumption amount. If the number of issues is less than 1 (predetermined number), this corresponds to the case where the number of issues is 0. The immediately preceding predetermined time is the predetermined time immediately before the calculation of the new consumption amount of the consideration. A specific calculation method will be described later.

[0152] Condition S-6 is met when the current issuance of NFTs is equal to or less than the upper limit of NFTs that can be issued per unit time. The unit time is the same as the predetermined time (5 minutes) for which the consumption amount of the consideration is calculated, and the timing at which measurement starts is also the same. The upper limit per unit time is, for example, 10. The upper limit per unit time is set for each type of content. The upper limit per unit time applies to the number of NFTs issued by all users. In other words, the issuance of NFTs corresponding to the same type of content is limited to 10 or less per predetermined time (5 minutes) among all users. The server device 10C counts the number of NFTs actually issued per predetermined time (cumulative number of issued NFTs) for each type of content (content ID) and stores it in the memory.

[0153] Next, the calculation of the consumption amount of the consideration (amount of consideration) will be described. In the example of this embodiment, as in the example of the second embodiment, the consumption amount of the consideration is calculated using the following calculation formulas (1) and (2).

[0154] Consumption = PUT×K PNI ·····(1) Consumption = PUT×Q (2)

[0155] "PUT" is the amount of consideration consumed in the immediately preceding specified time. "PNI" is the number of NFTs issued (cumulative number of issues) in the immediately preceding specified time. "K" is a constant, and K>1. For example, K=1.1 will be used. Calculation formula (1) is applied when the number of issues (PNI) is 1 (predetermined number) or greater. Calculation formula (2) is applied when the number of issues (PNI) is less than 1 (predetermined number). "Q" is a constant, and Q<1. For example, Q=0.995 will be used. In this case, if the number of issues is 0, the newly calculated amount of consideration consumed will be reduced by a predetermined amount (0.5%) from the previous amount consumed. The values ​​of the above-mentioned predetermined number, constant, etc. may be stored in the server device 10C (storage unit).

[0156] The calculation of the amount of consideration consumed will be explained with reference to FIG. 17. FIG. 17 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the change in the number of issued NFTs for content CT. FIG. 17 shows the change in the number of issued NFTs for each predetermined time (5 minutes) from the start of measurement (t=0). The timing at which measurement starts is after the lock period (purchase period) LT for the content CT has elapsed.

[0157] An initial value is set as the consumption amount for the period from 0 minutes 00 seconds to 5 minutes 00 seconds (predetermined time C1) elapsed from the start of measurement. This is because there is no immediately preceding predetermined time. The initial value of content is stored in the server device 10C (storage unit) by rarity. For example, content CT is rarity (R), and the initial value of the consumption amount of consideration is 100. Therefore, to issue an NFT between the start and end of the predetermined time C1, a payment of 100 consumption amount of consideration is required.

[0158] Next, the consumption amount from the elapsed time 5 minutes 00 seconds (excluding 5 minutes 00 seconds) to 10 minutes 00 seconds (predetermined time C2) is the number of NFTs issued (PNI) in the immediately preceding predetermined time C1, which is 10. Also, the consumption amount of consideration (PUT) in the immediately preceding predetermined time C1 is 100. Therefore, calculation formula (1) is applied. Specifically, the consumption amount of consideration in the predetermined time C2 is set to 260 as shown below. Note that the calculation result is rounded up. Therefore, to issue an NFT from the start to the end of the predetermined time C2, a payment of the consumption amount of consideration: 260 is required.

[0159] Consumption = 100×1.1 10 =260

[0160] Furthermore, for the consumption amount between the elapsed time of 10 minutes 00 seconds (excluding 10 minutes 00 seconds) and 15 minutes 00 seconds (predetermined time C3), the number of NFTs issued (PNI) in the immediately preceding predetermined time C2 is 1. Furthermore, the consumption amount of consideration (PUT) in the immediately preceding predetermined time C2 is 260. Therefore, calculation formula (1) is applied. Specifically, the consumption amount of consideration in the predetermined time C3 is set to 286 as follows. Therefore, the issuance of an NFT between the start and end of the predetermined time C3 requires the payment of the consumption amount of consideration: 286.

[0161] Consumption = 260×1.1 1 =286

[0162] On the other hand, for the consumption amount between 15 minutes 00 seconds (excluding 15 minutes 00 seconds) and 20 minutes 00 seconds (predetermined time C4), the number of NFTs issued (PNI) in the immediately preceding predetermined time C3 is 0. Also, the amount of consideration consumed (PUT) in the immediately preceding predetermined time C3 is 286. Therefore, calculation formula (2) is applied. Specifically, the amount of consideration consumed in the predetermined time C4 is set to 285 as shown below. Note that the calculation result is rounded up. Therefore, to issue an NFT between the start and end of the predetermined time C4, a payment of the amount of consideration consumed: 285 is required.

[0163] Consumption amount=286×0.995=285

[0164] Therefore, if the number of NFTs issued in a given period immediately prior to the issuance of NFTs is large (concentrated), such as at the beginning of the issuance of NFTs, the consumption amount of the above-mentioned consideration set next will increase significantly. If the consumption amount increases, the selling price must also increase in order to make a profit from secondary sales of NFTs. However, if the selling price becomes too high, no one may purchase them. This discourages the issuance of NFTs for speculative purposes. On the other hand, as time passes from the beginning of the issuance of NFTs, if the number of NFTs issued decreases, the consumption amount of consideration will also decrease. Therefore, even users who are not using NFTs for speculative purposes will find it easier to issue NFTs (NFTs will be issued in moderation).

[0165] Furthermore, because condition S-6 (being equal to or less than the upper limit for the number of NFTs issued per unit time (predetermined time)) is set, excessive concentration of NFT issuance during a predetermined time period when the amount of consideration consumed is set relatively low is prevented. For example, during a predetermined time period (5 minutes) from the start of measurement, an initial value is set as the amount of consideration consumed, so the amount of consideration consumed is relatively low. However, even in this case, the number of NFTs issued is limited to 10 or less. Furthermore, because condition S-6 is set, a sudden increase in the newly calculated amount of consideration consumed is prevented.

[0166] It is desirable that the consumption amount of the consideration does not decrease below the initial value. In other words, it is desirable that the consumption amount of the consideration is calculated so that the minimum price becomes the initial value. It is also desirable that the consumption amount of the consideration does not increase beyond 500% of the initial value. In this case, the initial value and the specific amount may be stored in the server device 10C (storage unit). It is also not necessary to round up the decimals of the calculation result.

[0167] 18 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a server device 10C, which is an example of the server device 10. In the example of this embodiment, the server device 10C includes at least a progress control unit 14C, an association unit 11C, an issuing unit 12C, and a calculation unit 13C.

[0168] The progress control unit (progress control function, progress control process) 14C controls the progress of the video game. For example, the progress control unit 14C controls the progress of a battle in accordance with operation input from the operation unit of the user (terminal device). The progress control unit 14C also transmits image generation information in accordance with the progress of the battle to the user (terminal device).

[0169] Furthermore, the progress control unit 14C updates the user data based on the progress of the game, such as battles, by the user (terminal device). For example, it adds points awarded for clearing dungeons, updates the intimacy level, etc. As described above, the user data is data related to the user's game, and is stored in the storage unit of the server device 10C for each user (game user ID). Figure 19 is a diagram showing an example of user data for one user (J01-0001). The user data is composed of fields such as the game user ID, owned content, monthly issue count, and user ID.

[0170] The game user ID field is set with the user's game identification information (user ID for the game system). The owned content field is set with information about content purchased (acquired) by the user. In other words, information about content associated with the user is set. The user can use the content set in the owned content field in the game. The owned content field is composed of fields such as content ID, intimacy level, accumulated points, and NFT ID.

[0171] The content ID field contains identification information for the content. The intimacy field contains the intimacy level between the content (content ID) and the user. The accumulated points field contains the accumulated points given to the content.

[0172] The NFT ID field is set with identification information (NFT_ID) of the NFT corresponding to the content (content ID). Note that for content for which an NFT has not been issued, information specifying that an NFT has not been issued is set in the NFT ID. Furthermore, content for which an NFT_ID is set in the NFT ID field is specified as having an NFT issued. In other words, the NFT ID corresponds to information (NFT information) that specifies whether or not an NFT has been issued for the content (content ID).

[0173] The monthly issue number field is set to the number of NFTs issued for the user (game user ID) in the current month. The number of NFTs issued for the current month is set for each rarity. For example, in Figure 19, the number of NFTs issued for rarity (R) content in the current month is 5. The monthly issue number field is reset (set to 0) when the month changes. The user ID field is set to the user's identification information (user ID). In other words, the user's (terminal device's) wallet address is set in the user ID field.

[0174] The progress control unit 14C adds a predetermined amount of points to the accumulated points of the content (content ID) used in the cleared dungeon. The progress control unit 14C also updates (increases) the intimacy level according to the value of the accumulated points. That is, the progress control unit 14C records the user's usage status of the content associated with the user in the game in the user data of the storage unit.

[0175] The associating unit 11C associates content with a user. Specifically, the associating unit 11C adds the content ID of the content to be associated to the user data (owned content) of the user (game user ID). Note that the intimacy level is set to an initial value of 1. Furthermore, the accumulated points are set to an initial value of 0. The information associating content with a user is information that associates content identification information (content ID) with user identification information (game user ID). Furthermore, the information associating content with a user includes an NFT ID (user data). The associating unit 11C sets information that specifies that an NFT has not been issued to the user data (NFT ID) as an initial value. Note that in the example of this embodiment, content is converted into an NFT only once.

[0176] The associating unit 11C accepts a content purchase request from a user (terminal device 20, 201 to 20N) during the purchase period. In response, the associating unit 11C performs payment processing (billing processing) using legal currency, virtual currency, etc. possessed by the user. After the billing processing is completed, the associating unit 11C simply associates the user with the content. In other words, the associating unit 11C simply updates the user data (owned content) of the purchasing user.

[0177] Information about the content for sale (including the purchase period) may be stored in the server device 10C (storage unit). When multiple types of content are sold, an image of a list of the content for sale may be displayed on the terminal device of the user who has made the purchase request, and the user may select the content to purchase.

[0178] The issuing unit 12C issues an NFT corresponding to content in the blockchain network 30. An NFT is issued for content associated with a user, and the user is the owner. In other words, an NFT is issued for content owned by the user. However, the content to be issued is content for which an NFT has not yet been issued. Issuing an NFT involves recording the location of ownership of the content in the blockchain. In other words, a token ID (NFT_ID) is issued for the content, and a blockchain is generated in which metadata such as content identification information and information specifying the owner is associated with this token ID.

[0179] The issuing unit 12C issues an NFT corresponding to content when the permission conditions are met. The permission conditions include conditions S-1 to S-6 as described above.

[0180] The issuing unit 12C receives an issuance request for an NFT corresponding to the content from a user (terminal device 20, 201 to 20N). In response, the issuing unit 12C performs payment processing (billing processing) using legal tender, virtual currency, etc. held by the user. After completing the billing processing for the consumption amount of the set consideration (amount of consideration), the issuing unit 12C transmits an issuance request for an NFT corresponding to the content to the blockchain network 30.

[0181] The issuing unit 12C transmits (uploads), for example, the content identification information (content ID), information identifying the owner, information identifying the data for the NFT, etc., along with a request to issue an NFT to the blockchain network 30. The information identifying the owner is the user's wallet address associated with the content (NFT). As a result, an NFT corresponding to the content is issued in the blockchain network 30. The issuing unit 12C then sends the NFT corresponding to the content to the wallet (terminal device) of the owner (user). Specifically, the NFT ID, the data for the NFT, etc. are sent to the owner's wallet.

[0182] The calculation unit 13C calculates the consumption amount of the consideration for each predetermined time period. Specifically, the calculation unit 13C calculates the consumption amount of the consideration for the content according to the number of NFTs issued corresponding to the same type of content between the start and end of the previous predetermined time period. In other words, the consumption amount of the consideration for NFTing content by type is calculated each time a predetermined time period elapses. Therefore, the consumption amount may vary depending on the type of content.

[0183] As described above, the calculation unit 13C calculates the consumption amount of the consideration using the calculation formulas (1) and (2). The calculation unit 13C calculates the consumption amount of the consideration for each type of content. The calculated consumption amount is stored in the server device 10C (storage unit) in association with the identification information of the content. That is, the consumption amount of the consideration is stored in the server device 10C (storage unit) for each type of content.

[0184] Furthermore, the calculation unit 13C counts, for example, the number of NFTs issued for each predetermined time period from the start of measurement (the cumulative number of NFTs issued) for each type of content. Specifically, as illustrated in FIG. 17, the calculation unit 13C counts the cumulative number of NFTs issued for each predetermined time period, such as predetermined times C1 and C2, for each type of content. The cumulative number of NFTs issued for each predetermined time period is stored in the server device 10C (storage unit) in association with the content identification information. Note that the cumulative number of NFTs issued for a predetermined time period prior to the immediately preceding predetermined time period may be deleted from the server device 10C (storage unit). Furthermore, the date and time at which measurement of the predetermined time period began is stored in advance in the server device 10C (storage unit) for each type of content. Specifically, the content identification information and the date and time at which measurement began are associated and stored in the server device 10C (storage unit). Furthermore, the calculation unit 13C may measure time and determine the timing at which a predetermined time period has elapsed since measurement began for each type of content.

[0185] In addition, the calculation unit 13C counts the monthly issuance number of NFTs of each rarity for each user. Specifically, the calculation unit 13C updates the user data (monthly issuance number).

[0186] FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing an example of content association processing executed by the system 100C. In the association processing of the example of this embodiment, processing is performed to associate content (NFT not yet issued) with a user. Note that FIG. 20 mainly describes the processing for associating content with a user, and other processing may be partially omitted. Below, an example will be described in which user P (terminal device 20-C) is associated with content.

[0187] The content association process in this embodiment is initiated, for example, when payment processing (billing processing) for content selected and desired to be purchased by user P (terminal device 20C) is completed. As described above, the billing processing is executed when a purchase request for the selected content is received from user P (terminal device 20-C) within the purchase period. User P simply selects the content desired to be purchased from a list image of content available for purchase (association) displayed on terminal device 20C. As a result, identification information for the content desired to be purchased and identification information (game user ID) for user P are transmitted from terminal device 20-C to server device 10C.

[0188] The server device 10C executes an association process (step S10-C). In the process of step S10-C, information associating the content with the user is stored in a storage unit. The server device 10C adds content identification information, etc. to the user data (owned content) of user P (game user ID). In this case, the server device 10C sets information specifying that an NFT has not been issued to the NFT ID of the owned content. The server device 10C also sets initial values ​​to the intimacy level and accumulated points of the owned content. Thereafter, the server device 10C ends the content association process.

[0189] FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing an example of an NFT issuance process executed by the system 100C. The issuance process in this embodiment is a process for issuing an NFT corresponding to content in the blockchain network 30. Note that FIG. 21 mainly describes the process for issuing an NFT for content associated with a user, and some other processes may be omitted. Below, an example will be described in which an NFT for content associated with user P (terminal device 20-C) is issued.

[0190] The issuance process in this embodiment begins when the server device 10C receives an NFT issuance request from user P (terminal device 20-C), for example. The issuance request includes identification information for the content to be converted into an NFT and identification information for the user (game user ID). User P simply selects the content they wish to convert into an NFT from a list image of content displayed on the terminal device 20-C. Upon selection, an NFT issuance request is sent from the user (terminal device 20C) to the server device 10C. Note that the list image of content is a list image of content (for which an NFT has not been issued) associated with user P.

[0191] The server device 10C executes the billing process (step S20-C). In the billing process, payment is made in legal tender, virtual currency, etc. held by the user. That is, in the billing process, the fee for issuing the NFT is collected from the user. The server device 10C collects from the user P the amount of the fee consumed (amount of the fee) for the content that the user wishes to turn into an NFT. The server device 10C performs the collection by referring to the amount of the fee consumed (amount of the fee) stored in the memory unit.

[0192] Next, server device 10C determines whether the permission conditions for the content desired to be converted into NFT are met (step S21-C). For condition S-1, the lock period (purchase period) based on the content's identification information is obtained from the storage unit and compared with the current date and time to determine whether it is met. For condition S-2, the intimacy level based on the content's identification information is obtained from user P's user data, and a determination is made as to whether it is above a predetermined level.

[0193] Furthermore, for condition S-3, the monthly number of issuances of the relevant rarity is obtained from the user data of user P, and it is determined whether the current (current month) monthly number of issuances of user P is equal to or less than the monthly upper limit (user-specific upper limit) illustrated in FIG. 16. The server device 10C simply obtains the monthly upper limit of the relevant rarity from the storage unit. For condition S-4, it is determined whether the content is capable of issuing an NFT based on whether the content can issue an NFT. The server device 10C simply obtains from the storage unit the NFT issuance status included in the content's status based on the content's identification information.

[0194] Condition S-5 is determined to be met if the billing process in step S20 is completed normally. Condition S-6 is performed by obtaining the number of NFTs issued in the current predetermined time period (cumulative number of NFTs issued) based on the content's identification information, and determining whether it is equal to or less than the upper limit (10) per unit time. The number of NFTs issued per predetermined time period (cumulative number of NFTs issued) is stored in server device 10C (storage unit). Server device 10C may also obtain the upper limit for the number of content items per unit time from the storage unit based on the content's identification information.

[0195] If all of the conditions S-1 to S-6 are met, it is determined that the permission conditions are met. If the permission conditions are not met (step S21-C: NO), the server device 10C ends the NFT issuance process.

[0196] On the other hand, if the permission condition is met (step S21-C: YES), the server device 10C executes a request transmission process (step S22-C). In the request transmission process, an NFT issuance request is sent from the server device 10C to the blockchain network 30. The server device 10C transmits, for example, the identification information of the content desired to be turned into an NFT, information specifying the owner, information specifying the data for the NFT, etc., along with the NFT issuance request to the blockchain network 30.

[0197] Next, the server device 10C determines whether the issuance of the NFT has been completed (step S23-C). The server device 10C waits until the issuance of the NFT has been completed. When the server device 10C receives information from the blockchain network 30 indicating that the issuance of the NFT has been completed, the server device 10C determines that the issuance of the NFT has been completed.

[0198] If the issuance of the NFT is complete (step S23-C: YES), the server device 10C executes completion processing (step S24-C). In the completion processing, the server device 10C sends an NFT corresponding to the content to user P's wallet (terminal device 20C). Specifically, the NFT_ID, NFT data, etc. are sent to user P's wallet. The server device 10C also sets the NFT_ID to the user data (NFT ID) of user P. This identifies the content as having an NFT already issued. Furthermore, the server device 10C updates, for example, the cumulative number of NFTs issued per predetermined time for each type of content. The server device 10C also updates user P's user data (monthly number of issuances) based on the rarity of the content. The server device 10C may also, for example, send a notification that the NFT has been issued to user P (terminal device 20C). Thereafter, the server device 10C ends the NFT issuance processing.

[0199] Although the processes shown in FIGS. 20 and 21 have been described with respect to the terminal device 20, similar processes are also performed for other users (terminal devices).

[0200] 22 is a flowchart showing an example of a consumption calculation process executed by the system 100C. The consumption calculation process in this embodiment is a process for calculating the consumption amount of the consideration for issuing an NFT corresponding to content. Note that FIG. 22 mainly describes the process for calculating the consumption amount of the consideration, and other processes may be omitted.

[0201] The consumption calculation process in this embodiment is executed, for example, for each type of content when a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of measurement. For example, as illustrated in Fig. 17, the consumption calculation process is executed when a predetermined time C1 (5 minutes and 00 seconds) has elapsed since the start of measurement for a certain type of content CT, and the consumption amount of the consideration for the predetermined time C2 is calculated. Also, the consumption calculation process is executed when a predetermined time C2 (10 minutes and 00 seconds) has elapsed since the start of measurement for a certain type of content CT, and the consumption amount of the consideration for the predetermined time C3 is calculated.

[0202] The server device 10C executes an acquisition process (step S30-C). In the acquisition process, the number of issued NFTs corresponding to the type of content to be calculated is acquired. The number of issued NFTs is the number issued in the immediately preceding specified time period (cumulative number of issued NFTs). For example, in the case of calculating the amount of consideration consumed in the specified time period C2 illustrated in FIG. 17, the number of issued NFTs in the immediately preceding specified time period C1 (cumulative number of issued NFTs): 10 is acquired. The server device 10C acquires the cumulative number of issued NFTs in the immediately preceding specified time period from the storage unit.

[0203] Next, the server device 10C executes a calculation process (step S31-C). In the calculation process, the consumption amount of the consideration for the content of the calculation target type is calculated according to the number of issues acquired in the above-mentioned acquisition process. The server device 10C calculates the consumption amount of the consideration using the above-mentioned number of issues and the above-mentioned calculation formulas (1) and (2), etc.

[0204] Next, the server device 10C executes an update process (step S32-C). In the update process, the price consumption amount of the content of the type to be calculated is updated to the price consumption amount calculated in the process of step S31-C. For example, the server device 10C may update (change) the price consumption amount associated with the content identification information in the storage unit to the newly calculated consumption amount. Thereafter, the server device 10C terminates the consumption amount calculation process. Note that, when an initial value such as the predetermined time B1 illustrated in FIG. 8 is set as the price consumption amount, the above-described acquisition process and update process are not executed, and only the update process is executed to set the initial value as the price consumption amount.

[0205] As described above, as one aspect of the third embodiment, the issuing system (game system) 100C is configured to include a progress control unit 14C, an association unit 11C, an issuing unit 12C, and a calculation unit 13C, so that an NFT corresponding to content is issued when permission conditions, including the user's consumption of compensation, are met. Because the amount of compensation consumed varies depending on at least the number of NFTs issued in the immediately preceding predetermined period, NFTs are issued appropriately while suppressing the issuance of NFTs for speculative purposes.

[0206] In the above-described embodiment, the amount of consideration consumed is calculated based on the number of NFTs issued corresponding to content in the immediately preceding predetermined time period. However, the amount of consideration consumed need only be calculated based on at least the number of NFTs issued corresponding to content in the immediately preceding predetermined time period. When calculating the amount of consideration consumed for the predetermined time period C3 illustrated in FIG. 17, the calculation may be based on the number of NFTs issued in the predetermined time period C1 and the number of NFTs issued in the predetermined time period C2. Furthermore, the formula for calculating the amount of consideration consumed is not limited to the above-described example, and any calculation method may be applied.

[0207] In the above-described embodiment, the permission conditions include multiple conditions, but it is sufficient that the permission conditions include at least a condition regarding the consumption of the user's fee. The permission conditions may also be changed periodically.

[0208] In the above embodiment, a sales period is set for the content, but this need not be the case. Also, an upper limit may be set for the number of pieces of the same type of content that can be associated with a user.

[0209] In the above-described embodiment, the measurement of the predetermined time for the same type of content may start at least after the content is released, that is, after it becomes possible to associate a user with the content.

[0210] In the example of the embodiment described above, the amount of consideration consumed varies for all types of content that can be converted into NFTs, but this is not particularly limited. For example, the amount of consideration consumed for NFTing some types of content may vary. Furthermore, for example, a configuration may be adopted in which the amount of consideration consumed varies until a certain period of time (e.g., one year) has passed since the start of sales of the content, and after the certain period of time (e.g., one year) has passed, the amount of consideration consumed may be set to a fixed value. In this case, the calculation unit measures time from the start of sales of the content until the certain period of time (e.g., one year) has passed. Furthermore, the calculation unit may set a fixed value for the amount of consideration consumed after the certain period of time (e.g., one year) has passed. The fixed value may be, for example, the initial value described above.

[0211] In the above-described embodiment, when an NFT corresponding to content is issued, a reward (incentive) may be given to the creator of the content. For example, a portion of the collected payment may be given to the creator of the NFTized content.

[0212] The issuing unit in the example embodiment described above may be configured to either make an issuance request as described above and have the blockchain network issue an NFT, or to issue an NFT itself.

[0213] In the above-described embodiment, the server device functions as the progress control unit, the association unit, the issuing unit, and the calculation unit, but this is not particularly limited. For example, instead of the server device, all or part of the progress control unit, the association unit, the issuing unit, and the calculation unit may be realized by a blockchain network. Also, for example, the server device may be a node that constitutes the blockchain network.

[0214] In the above-described embodiment, the operator of the server device and the operator of the blockchain network may be different or the same.

[0215] [Note] The above-described embodiments have been described so that at least the following invention can be implemented by a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the invention pertains.

[0216] [1] An issuance processing program for issuing non-fungible tokens (hereinafter referred to as NFTs) to a computer connected via a communication network to multiple terminal devices used by multiple users, The computer, an associating function for associating digital content with a user by storing information associating the content with the user in a storage unit; An issuance function that issues an NFT corresponding to content associated with a user in a blockchain network to the user as the owner in response to the establishment of a permission condition, including the user's consumption of consideration; a calculation function for calculating the consumption amount of the consideration at each predetermined time interval; To achieve this, The calculation function calculates the consumption amount of the consideration for the content according to the number of NFTs issued corresponding to the same type of content at least between the start and end of the immediately preceding predetermined time period; An issuance processing program that makes this possible.

[0217] [2] In the calculation function, If the number of NFTs issued corresponding to the same type of content between the start and end of the immediately preceding predetermined time period is equal to or greater than a predetermined number, the function of increasing the amount of the consideration consumed in accordance with the number of issues; a function of reducing the consumption amount by a predetermined amount if the number of NFTs issued corresponding to the same type of content between the start and end of the immediately preceding predetermined time period is less than the predetermined number; The issuance processing program according to [1] is implemented.

[0218] [3] The issuance function has a function of limiting the number of NFTs issued corresponding to the same type of content per predetermined time period to an upper limit or less; The issuance processing program according to [1] or [2], which realizes the above.

[0219] [4] The association function is a function of associating content with a user within a possible period; The permission condition includes a condition that the available period of the content has elapsed; The calculation function includes a function of calculating the consumption amount of the consideration at each predetermined time interval after the end of the possible period; The issuing processing program according to any one of [1] to [3] above.

[0220] [5] The issuance function realizes a function of storing the number of NFTs issued per user per unit period in the storage unit, The permission conditions include a condition that the number of NFTs issued per user is equal to or less than the upper limit per user, which is the upper limit of the number of NFTs that can be issued per user per unit period. The issuing processing program according to any one of [1] to [4] above.

[0221] [6] Further realizing a progress control function for controlling the progress of a video game executed by the terminal device, the content is content used in a video game by an associated user; The issuing processing program according to any one of [1] to [5].

[0222] [7] The permission conditions include conditions regarding the user's use of content associated with the user in the game; The progress control function has a function of storing the usage status in a storage unit for each user; The issuance processing program according to [6], which realizes the above.

[0223] [8] A server device in which the issuance processing program according to any one of [1] to [7] is installed.

[0224] [9] An issuance processing program for issuing non-fungible tokens (hereinafter referred to as NFTs) to a server device connected via a communication network to multiple terminal devices used by multiple users, The server device an associating function for associating digital content with a user by storing information associating the content with the user in a storage unit; An issuance function that issues an NFT corresponding to content associated with a user in a blockchain network to the user as the owner in response to the establishment of a permission condition, including the user's consumption of consideration; a calculation function for calculating the consumption amount of the consideration at each predetermined time interval; Realize this, The calculation function calculates the consumption amount of the consideration for the content according to the number of NFTs issued corresponding to the same type of content at least between the start and end of the immediately preceding predetermined time period; An issuance processing program that makes this possible.

[0225]

[10] In the calculation function, If the number of NFTs issued corresponding to the same type of content between the start and end of the immediately preceding predetermined time period is equal to or greater than a predetermined number, the function of increasing the amount of the consideration consumed in accordance with the number of issues; a function of reducing the consumption amount by a predetermined amount if the number of NFTs issued corresponding to the same type of content between the start and end of the immediately preceding predetermined time period is less than the predetermined number; [9] The issuance processing program according to the present invention.

[0226]

[11] The issuance function has a function of limiting the number of NFTs issued corresponding to the same type of content per predetermined time period to an upper limit or less; The issuance processing program according to [9] or

[10] , which realizes the above.

[0227]

[12] The association function is a function of associating content with a user within a possible period; The permission condition includes a condition that the available period of the content has elapsed; The calculation function includes a function of calculating the consumption amount of the consideration at each predetermined time interval after the end of the possible period; The issuing processing program according to any one of [9] to

[11] , which realizes the above.

[0228]

[13] The issuance function realizes a function of storing the number of NFTs issued per user per unit period in the storage unit, The permission conditions include a condition that the number of NFTs issued per user is equal to or less than the upper limit per user, which is the upper limit of the number of NFTs that can be issued per user per unit period. The issuance processing program according to any one of [9] to

[12] , which realizes the above.

[0229]

[14] Further realizing a progress control function for controlling the progress of a video game executed by the terminal device, the content is content used in a video game by an associated user; The issuance processing program according to any one of [9] to

[13] .

[0230]

[15] The permission conditions include conditions regarding the user's use of content associated with the user in the game; The progress control function has a function of storing the usage status in a storage unit for each user;

[14] The issuance processing program according to

[14] .

[0231]

[16] A non-fungible token (hereinafter referred to as NFT) issuing system comprising a plurality of terminal devices used by a plurality of users, and a server device connected to the terminal devices via a communication network, an associating means for associating digital content with a user by storing information associating the content with the user in a storage unit; An issuing means for issuing an NFT corresponding to content associated with the user in a blockchain network to the user as the owner in response to the establishment of a permission condition including consumption of the user's consideration; a calculation means for calculating the consumption amount of the consideration at each predetermined time interval; Including, The calculation means calculates the consumption amount of the consideration for the content according to the number of NFTs issued corresponding to the same type of content at least between the start and end of the immediately preceding predetermined time period. Issuance system.

[0232]

[17] The calculation means If the number of NFTs issued corresponding to the same type of content between the start and end of the immediately preceding predetermined time period is equal to or greater than a predetermined number, the amount of the consideration consumed is increased according to the number of issues; If the number of NFTs issued corresponding to the same type of content between the start and end of the immediately preceding predetermined time period is less than the predetermined number, reduce the consumption amount by a predetermined amount.

[16] The issuing system described in

[16] .

[0233]

[18] The issuing means limits the number of NFTs issued per predetermined time period corresponding to the same type of content to an upper limit or less.

[16] or

[17] .

[0234]

[19] the associating means associates the content with the user within a possible period; The permission condition includes a condition that the available period of the content has elapsed; the calculation means calculates the consumption amount of the consideration at each elapse of the predetermined time period after the end of the possible period; An issuing system according to any one of

[16] to

[18] .

[0235]

[20] The issuing means stores the number of NFTs issued for each user in a unit period in a storage unit, The permission conditions include a condition that the number of NFTs issued per user is equal to or less than the upper limit per user, which is the upper limit of the number of NFTs that can be issued per user per unit period. An issuing system according to any one of

[16] to

[19] .

[0236] [twenty one] the server device has progress control means for controlling the progress of the video game, the terminal device executes the video game; the content is content for use in a video game by an associated user; An issuing system according to any one of

[16] to

[20] .

[0237] [twenty two] The permission conditions include conditions regarding the user's use of content associated with the user in the game; the progress control means stores the usage status for each user in a storage unit;

[21] The issuing system described in

[21] .

[0238] [twenty three] An issuance processing method for issuing non-fungible tokens (hereinafter referred to as NFTs) to a computer connected via a communication network to multiple terminal devices used by multiple users, an association process for associating digital content with a user by storing information associating the content with the user in a storage unit; an issuance process for issuing an NFT corresponding to content associated with the user in the blockchain network to the user as the owner in response to the establishment of the permission conditions, including the user's consumption of consideration; a calculation process for calculating the consumption amount of the consideration at each predetermined time interval; Including, In the calculation process, the consumption amount of the consideration for the content is calculated according to the number of NFTs issued corresponding to the same type of content at least between the start and end of the immediately preceding predetermined time period. Issuance processing method. [Industrial Applicability]

[0239] One embodiment of the present invention is useful for providing a mechanism that moderates the issuance (secondary distribution) of NFTs while suppressing the issuance of NFTs for speculative purposes. [Explanation of symbols]

[0240] 10 Server device 11 Association section 12 Publishing Department 13 Calculation section 14 Progression control section 20 Terminal equipment 30 Blockchain Networks 100 Game System CT Content

Claims

1. A non-fungible token (hereinafter referred to as NFT) issuing system including a plurality of terminal devices used by a plurality of users, and a server device connected to the terminal devices via a communication network, an associating means for associating digital content with a user by storing information associating the content with the user in a storage unit; an issuing means for issuing an NFT corresponding to content associated with the user in a blockchain network to the user as the owner in response to the establishment of a permission condition including the user's consumption of consideration; a calculation means for calculating the consumption amount of the consideration at each predetermined time interval; Including, The calculation means calculates the consumption amount of the consideration for the content in accordance with the number of NFTs issued corresponding to the same type of content at least between the start and end of the immediately preceding predetermined time period. Issuance system.

2. The calculation means If the number of NFTs issued corresponding to the same type of content between the start and end of the immediately preceding predetermined time period is equal to or greater than a predetermined number, the amount of the consideration consumed is increased in accordance with the number of NFTs issued; If the number of NFTs issued corresponding to the same type of content between the start and end of the immediately preceding predetermined time period is less than the predetermined number, reduce the consumption amount by a predetermined amount. The issuing system of claim 1 .

3. The issuing means limits the number of NFTs issued corresponding to the same type of content per predetermined time period to an upper limit number or less. The issuing system according to claim 1 or 2.

4. the associating means associates the content with the user within a possible period; The permission condition includes a condition that the available period of the content has elapsed; the calculation means calculates the consumption amount of the consideration at each elapse of the predetermined time period after the end of the possible period; The issuing system according to claim 1 or 2.

5. The issuing means stores the number of NFTs issued for each user in a unit period in a storage unit, The permission conditions include a condition that the number of NFTs issued per user per unit period is equal to or less than the upper limit per user. The issuing system according to claim 1 or 2.

6. the server device has progress control means for controlling the progress of the video game, the terminal device executes the video game; the content is content for use in a video game by an associated user; The issuing system according to claim 1 or 2.

7. An issuance processing program for issuing non-fungible tokens (hereinafter referred to as NFTs) to a computer connected via a communication network to a plurality of terminal devices used by a plurality of users, The computer, an associating function for associating digital content with a user by storing information associating the content with the user in a storage unit; an issuance function that issues, in response to the establishment of a permission condition, including the user's consumption of consideration, an NFT corresponding to the content associated with the user in the blockchain network, with the user as the owner; a calculation function for calculating the consumption amount of the consideration at each predetermined time interval; To achieve this, The calculation function calculates the consumption amount of the consideration for the content in accordance with the number of NFTs issued corresponding to the same type of content at least between the start and end of the immediately preceding predetermined time period; An issuance processing program that makes this possible.

8. An issuance processing method for issuing non-fungible tokens (hereinafter referred to as NFTs) to a computer connected via a communication network to multiple terminal devices used by multiple users, an association process for associating digital content with a user by storing information associating the content with the user in a storage unit; an issuance process in which, in response to the establishment of a permission condition including the consumption of the user's consideration, an NFT corresponding to the content associated with the user is issued in the blockchain network to the user as the owner; a calculation process for calculating the consumption amount of the consideration at each predetermined time interval; Including, In the calculation process, the consumption amount of the consideration for the content is calculated according to the number of NFTs issued corresponding to the same type of content at least between the start and end of the immediately preceding predetermined time period. Issuance processing method.

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