Information processing apparatus, information processing method, and program

Abstract

The information processing apparatus includes circuitry that determines, based on virtual space attribute information associated with a virtual space among a plurality of different virtual spaces and first content management information associated with the first content, whether the first content is permitted to be used in the virtual space. When the first content is permitted to be used in the virtual space, the circuitry also controls placement of the first content in the virtual space based on first content attribute information of the first content and second content attribute information associated with second content that has been placed in the virtual space.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an information processing apparatus, an information processing method, and a program. BACKGROUND

[0002] Recently, a technology is known in which a virtual space in which various virtual objects (e.g., 3D models or 2D images) are to be placed is provided via a virtual space server. A user can experience the virtual space via various forms of user terminals (e.g., a smartphone, an HMD (Head Mounted Display), and a PC). In the virtual space, a character (so-called avatar) associated with the user and operable by the user can also be placed. In the virtual space, the user can also interact with another user via his own avatar.

[0003] For example, Patent Literature 1 discloses a technology in which, when a distributor performs live streaming using an avatar that is synchronized with his movement, the behavior of a viewer who watches the live streaming (e.g., whether to allow a comment, an NG word, or a shooting behavior) is restricted based on additional information added to the avatar.

[0004] LIST OF CITATIONS

[0005] PATENT LITERATURE

[0006] Patent Literature 1: JP 2020-17950 A SUMMARY

[0007] TECHNICAL PROBLEM

[0008] In recent years, a large number of virtual spaces have been provided, and it is assumed that various contents such as characters or items are brought into various virtual spaces by users of the contents, but it is desired that the contents are used in the virtual spaces based on the intention of the creator of the contents.

[0009] Therefore, the present disclosure proposes an information processing apparatus, an information processing method, and a program that allow processing of a content in a virtual space to be controlled based on attribute information of the content.

[0010] SOLUTION TO PROBLEM

[0011] According to the present disclosure, there is provided an information processing apparatus including circuitry configured to determine whether a first content is permitted to be used in a virtual space based on virtual space attribute information associated with the virtual space among a plurality of different virtual spaces and first content management information associated with the first content, and control placement of the first content in the virtual space based on first content attribute information of the first content and second content attribute information associated with a second content that has been placed in the virtual space when the first content is permitted to be used in the virtual space.

[0012] Further, according to the present disclosure, there is provided an information processing method including determining whether a first content is permitted to be used in a virtual space based on virtual space attribute information associated with the virtual space among a plurality of different virtual spaces, and first content management information associated with the first content, and when the first content is permitted to be used in the virtual space, controlling placement of the first content in the virtual space based on first content attribute information of the first content, and second content attribute information associated with a second content that has been placed in the virtual space.

[0013] Further, according to the present disclosure, there is provided a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium having a program recorded therein, the program, when executed by a computer, causing the computer to execute a method including determining whether a first content is permitted to be used in a virtual space based on virtual space attribute information associated with the virtual space among a plurality of different virtual spaces, and first content management information associated with the first content, and when the first content is permitted to be used in the virtual space, controlling placement of the first content in the virtual space based on first content attribute information of the first content, and second content attribute information associated with a second content that has been placed in the virtual space.

[0014] when the first content is permitted to be used in the virtual space, controlling placement of the first content in the virtual space based on first content attribute information of the first content, and second content attribute information associated with a second content that has been placed in the virtual space. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0015] [ Figure 1 ] Figure 1 is a diagram illustrating an overall configuration of an information processing system 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0016] [ Figure 2 ] Figure 2 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a configuration of a management organization server 20 according to the present embodiment.

[0017] [ Figure 3 ] Figure 3 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a configuration of a metaverse server 30 according to the present embodiment.

[0018] [ Figure 4 ] Figure 4 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a flow of an object availability determination process according to the present embodiment.

[0019] [ Figure 5 ] Figure 5 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an object placeability determination process according to the present embodiment.

[0020] [ Figure 6 ] Figure 6is a diagram illustrating an example of the target object O1, the map M1, and each determination area of one or more placed objects O2 and O3 according to the present embodiment.

[0021] [ Figure 7 ] Figure 7 is a diagram illustrating area determination when there is a masking object according to the present embodiment.

[0022] [ Figure 8 ] Figure 8 is a flowchart illustrating another example of the flow of the object placability determination process according to the present embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0023] With reference to the accompanying drawings, a detailed description will be given below of a preferred embodiment of the present disclosure. Note that in the present specification and drawings, components having substantially the same function configuration are denoted with the same reference numerals, in order to omit repetitive description thereof.

[0024] It is assumed that the description will be given in the following order:

[0025] 1. Configuration

[0026] 1-1. System configuration

[0027] 1-2. Configuration of the management organization server 20

[0028] 1-3. Configuration of the meta universe server 30

[0029] 2. Operation process

[0030] 2-1. Object availability determination process

[0031] 2-2. Object placability determination process

[0032] 2-3. Object placability determination process — placed by a player

[0033] 3. Supplement

[0034] <1. Configuration>

[0035] With reference to the accompanying drawings, a detailed description will be given below of an information processing system according to the present embodiment.

[0036] <<1-1. System configuration>>

[0037] Figure 1is a diagram showing the overall configuration of an information processing system 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The information processing system 1 according to the present embodiment includes one or more management organization servers 20 (20a... 20n), one or more meta universe servers 30 (30a... 30n) (examples of information processing devices), and one or more user terminals 10 (10a... 10n) to be used by respective users. The management organization servers 20, the meta universe servers 30, and the user terminals 10 can perform data transmission / reception via a network 40.

[0038] In the present system, it is assumed that each of the creators of various objects (examples of contents) such as characters or items has belonged to a management organization that manages the objects. A creator can also belong to multiple management organizations. A creator can register the created objects in the management organization server 20 of the management organization to which the creator belongs, and entrust the management of the objects to the management organization. A creator can also be referred to as a copyright holder. A creator is not limited to a natural person (an individual), and can also be a legal person. Alternatively, a creator can also be a creation group including multiple persons. A creator is not limited to a professional creator (a creation entrepreneur), and can also be an amateur creator (for example, a general consumer or a meta universe participant (for example, a player)).

[0039] The management organization server 20 has a management organization ID for self-identification. The management organization server 20 also issues a creator ID for creator identification to the belonging creator. The management organization server 20 can also issue an object ID for object identification to the registered object.

[0040] The meta universe server 30 constructs a meta universe (a virtual space), and appropriately provides information necessary for rendering the meta universe to the user terminal 10 via the network 40. The meta universe can also be constructed based on a game engine that allows video and sound to be presented interactively. Among the multiple meta universe servers 30a to 30n, meta universes different from each other are constructed. The present embodiment assumes a state in which multiple different meta universes (so-called multi-meta universes) are provided. The multiple meta universe servers 30 can be physically separate servers, or can also be independent virtual servers running in one physical server.

[0041] Each of the meta universes can be operated by a PF (platform) operator. In the present embodiment, it is assumed by way of example that one meta universe is provided by one meta universe server 30. Respective meta universes can be operated by different PF operators from each other, or multiple meta universes can also be operated by one PF operator. A PF operator is not limited to a natural person (an individual), and can also be a legal person. Alternatively, a PF operator can also be a PF operation group including multiple persons.

[0042] The PF operator sets one or more maps in the metaverse and places various objects (e.g., characters, items, or buildings) in the maps. Each of the maps is a virtual space area used as a metaverse, and a map coordinate can be set for the map. The PF operator assumes a scenario and a theme of the map and places various items, buildings, and the like in the map. The maps and various objects such as characters, items, buildings can be prepared by the PF operator himself or herself, or can also be purchased from a store, acquired through outsourcing, or borrowed from another metaverse. The objects that can be assumed to be borrowed from another metaverse can include objects created by general participants in the metaverse. When the PF operator uses an object that is not his or her own creation in a metaverse that he or she owns, the PF operator becomes a user of the object. Note that the person who actually places the maps, characters, and the like in the metaverse is not limited to the PF operator, and a case where a creator (e.g., a VR creator) who is commissioned by the PF operator to produce the metaverse actually performs the placement can also be assumed, but for the sake of convenience of description, the PF operator is assumed to be the producer of the metaverse in the present embodiment.

[0043] When the management of the objects to be used in the metaverse is performed by a management organization, by way of example, it is assumed that the PF operator who is a user of the objects also belongs to (is registered with) the management organization. The management organization server 20 issues a user ID for identifying the user (here, the PF operator). The PF operator can also belong to a plurality of management organizations. Alternatively, the PF operator himself or herself can also be a management organization, i.e., a management agency.

[0044] As described above, the management organization server 20 has a function of issuing a management organization ID, a creator (right holder) ID, an object ID, and a user ID, and gives the management organization ID, the creator (right holder) ID, the object ID, and the user ID as management information to each object managed by the management organization server 20.

[0045] The user terminal 10 is an information processing terminal to be used by a user. The user terminal 10 is implemented by, for example, a smartphone, a tablet terminal, a PC (personal computer), an HMD (head-mounted display) that covers the entire field of view, a glasses-type display device, a portable or stationary game machine, a projector, or the like. The user terminal 10 can be used when the PF operator constructs a metaverse on the metaverse server 30, or can also be used by a participant who participates in the construction of the metaverse. It is assumed that the participant who participates in the metaverse purchases an avatar (which is a character to be used as his or her alter ego in the metaverse) from an object sales store, or customizes and acquires an avatar by using a paid or free-of-charge avatar production tool. In this case, it can be said that the participant who participates in the metaverse is also a user of the object.

[0046] In recent years, a large number of meta universes (virtual spaces) have been provided, and it is assumed that various objects (contents) such as characters or items are brought into various meta universes by users of the objects (PF operators of the meta universes or participants in the meta universes). However, it is not desirable to use the objects in a virtual space in a situation that is undesirable in violation of the intention of the creator or the like of the object, and it is desirable to use the objects based on the intention of the creator.

[0047] Therefore, in the embodiment of the present disclosure, the processing of the content in the virtual space can be controlled based on the attribute information of the object.

[0048] The outline of the information processing system 1 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure has been described before. Note that, Figure 1 The system configuration shown in FIG. 1 is an example, and the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0049] Subsequently, a description will be given of the specific configuration of each device included in the information processing system 1 according to the present embodiment with reference to the drawings.

[0050] <<1-2. Configuration of management organization server 20>>

[0051] Figure 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the management organization server 20 according to the present embodiment. As Figure 2 indicated, the management organization server 20 includes a communication unit 210, a control unit 220, and a storage unit 230.

[0052] (Communication unit 210)

[0053] The communication unit 210 has a transmitter that transmits data to an external device and a receiver that receives data from an external device. The communication unit 210 according to the present embodiment can also be communicatively connected to an external device or the Internet using, for example, a wired or wireless LAN (Local Area Network), Wi-Fi (registered trademark), Bluetooth (registered trademark), a mobile communication network (LTE (Long Term Evolution), 4G (4th Generation Mobile Communication System), 5G (5th Generation Mobile Communication System)), or the like.

[0054] (Control unit 220)

[0055] The control unit 220 functions as an arithmetic processing device and a control device to control general operations in the management organization server 20 according to various programs. The control unit 220 is realized by an electronic circuit such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or a microprocessor. The control unit 220 can also include a ROM (Read Only Memory) that stores programs to be used, arithmetic parameters, and the like, and a RAM (Random Access Memory) that temporarily stores parameters and the like that change accordingly.

[0056] The control unit 220 also functions as an object management unit 221. The object management unit 221 receives registration of an object from a creator belonging to a management organization, and manages the object by using various IDs as management information. For example, the object management unit 221 issues a management organization ID, a creator ID, and an object ID in response to an object registration application from the creator belonging to the management organization.

[0057] When a user who generates an object by purchasing the object or the like, the object management unit 221 also issues a user ID. In a case where the user is determined at the time of registration of the object, for example, when the creator creates an object in response to a request from a PF operator, the object management unit 221 issues a management organization ID, a creator ID, an object ID, and a user ID in response to an object registration application from the creator. Further, a case is also assumed in which an object generated by a meta universe participant (player) in a meta universe is registered in the management organization server 20 from the user terminal 10. Also in this case, the user (player) is determined at the time of registration of the object, and the object management unit 221 issues a management organization ID, a creator ID, an object ID, and a user ID. Note that the creator indicated by such a creator ID can be a player, or can also be a creator of a tool or a material used by the player when generating an object in a meta universe.

[0058] The object management unit 221 associates the management organization ID, the creator (right holder) ID, the object ID, and the user ID with each other, and stores the associated IDs as management information in the management information DB 231.

[0059] A case is also assumed in which the PF operator owns one or a plurality of meta universes (worlds) and uses objects therein, but which meta universe the object is usable in can be determined in advance by the creator. The creator can prevent use of his or her own object in a meta universe having a world view that goes against his or her intention by specifying a meta universe in which the object is usable. It is assumed that the creator freely specifies a meta universe in which the object is usable with respect to the created object, or, when the object is created on a commission basis from the PF operator, the creator specifies one or a plurality of meta universes of the PF operator agreed in advance. The object management unit 221 can issue a meta universe ID for identifying a meta universe (world), include the meta universe ID in the object management information, and store the object management information in the management information DB 231. Note that, as the object management information, at least one of a user ID and a meta universe ID can also be registered. When only a user ID is registered, a state in which use in one or a plurality of meta universes owned by the PF operator identified by the user ID is permitted is identified.

[0060] The creator can not only specify a meta universe in which the object managed by the management organization server 20 can be used for its own object, but also set various attributes of the object. As attributes given generally, examples such as those in Table 1 below can be listed. Table 1 below shows examples of attributes in the existing format.

[0061] [Table 1]

[0062]

[0063] In the present embodiment, an extended attribute such as a prohibition attribute or a permission attribute can be further set for a placed object placed adjacent to the object. By setting such an extended attribute for an object, it is possible to avoid use of the object in violation of the intention. The extended attribute can be set by the creator. Details of the extended attribute will be described later.

[0064] (Storage unit 230)

[0065] The storage unit 230 is realized by a ROM and a RAM, the ROM stores programs, arithmetic parameters, and the like to be used in processing by the control unit 220, and the RAM temporarily stores parameters and the like that change accordingly.

[0066] The storage unit 230 also has a management information DB (database) 231 that stores object management information. In the management information DB 231, such management information as shown in Table 2 below can be stored.

[0067] [Table 2]

[0068]

[0069] Note that each of the objects and in which meta universe the object can be used can also be identified by a combination of different IDs. For example, the object can be identified by a combination of a management organization ID, a creator ID, and an object ID, and in which meta universe the object can be used can be identified by a combination of a management organization ID, a user ID, and a meta universe ID. In this case, a list of objects registered by, for example, the creator B1 (creator ID: BBB1) is shown in Table 3 below. Note that there is also a case where one object is permitted to be used by one or more users or in one or more meta universes.

[0070] [Table 3]

[0071]

[0072] As can be seen from Table 3 above, in the first row, for example, as the given object (management organization ID: CCC1, creator ID: BBB1, meta universe ID: AAA1) in which the creator B1 (creator ID: BBB1) is usable, two meta universes are specified, which are the meta universe specified by the meta universe ID: EEE1 and the meta universe specified by the meta universe ID: EEE2, which are owned by the user D1 having the user ID: DDD1.

[0073] Meanwhile, the list of objects for which the user D1 (user ID: DDD1) has obtained the use license is shown in Table 4 below.

[0074] [Table 4]

[0075]

[0076] As can be seen from Table 4 above, in the first row, for example, the user D1 (user ID: DDD1) has obtained the license to use the given object (management organization ID: CCC1, creator ID: BBB1, meta universe ID: AAA1) in two meta universes, which are the meta universe specified by the meta universe ID: EEE1 and the meta universe specified by the meta universe ID: EEE2, which are owned by the user D1.

[0077] Subsequently, a description will be given of a specific example of attribute information included in the management information of each of the objects.

[0078] As described above, the attribute information can include not only attributes of the existing format but also extended attributes. An example of the extended attribute item in the present embodiment is shown in Table 5 below. Note that the objects have types such as a role, an avatar (a role that can be operated as a proxy thereof by a meta universe participant), an item, and a map, and there are attribute items common to all object types and specific attribute items.

[0079] [Table 5]

[0080]

[0081]

[0082] In Table 5 above, the "registration server operator" is a PF operator who operates the meta universe server 30 in which the object is registered (brought in). Meanwhile, the "registration meta universe" is a meta universe (also referred to as a world) in which the object is registered (brought in).

[0083] In Table 5 above, the "world view" is the world view of the object, and assumes a type such as fantasy or a near future, for example.

[0084] In Table 5 above, the "determination area" is information indicating a range of performability determination based on the proximity placement prohibition attribute or the permission attribute described later when an object is to be placed in the meta universe.

[0085] In Table 5 above, the "holder of the authority to change various settings" is information indicating a holder of the authority to change various settings (for example, the target age, the world view, the determination area, the registered user, the registered meta universe, the number of accommodated people, the value of the proximity placement prohibition attribute or the permission attribute described later, or the prohibition level described later). For example, the creator of the object is assumed to be a person who holds such an authority, and the creator ID corresponds to the value of the attribute item. It is also assumed that the authority has been delegated from the creator to the PF operator who is the user of the object, in which case the ID (user ID) of the PF operator is set as the value of the attribute item.

[0086] In Table 5 above, for example, the player who has purchased and is using the item is assumed to be the "owner".

[0087] The attribute information described earlier can be manually input by the creator, or can also be automatically generated by the management organization server 20 or the meta universe server 30 by using a conditional expression or artificial intelligence. It can be considered that, when an object is registered in the management organization server 20, the management organization server 20 appropriately generates the attribute information and assigns the attribute information to the object. It can also be considered that, when an object is registered (brought in) in the meta universe server 30, the meta universe server 30 appropriately generates the attribute information and assigns the attribute information to the object. It can also be that the attribute information can be embedded in the object in addition to being stored as management information in the management information DB 231. For example, it is assumed that the creator embeds the attribute information in the object without the interposition of the management organization. The attribute information can also be embedded in the object without being stored as management information in the management information DB 231. Note that the attribute information can also be provided with measures for secrecy or tamper resistance.

[0088] Each attribute item shown in Table 5 above can include not only data indicating an attribute of the object, but also data on the proximity placement prohibition attribute and the permission attribute. The proximity placement prohibition attribute and the permission attribute are attributes of another object that prohibit and permit the placement of another object in proximity to the object when the object is to be placed in the meta universe (its map). Each attribute item can also include at least one of the prohibition attribute and the permission attribute.

[0089] Table 6 below shows an example of data that can be included in each of the attribute items shown in Table 5 above.

[0090] [Table 6]

[0091]

[0092] For example, in the "attribute item: size" of the object, as an example of the value of the object attribute, "1.6m", "0.2m x 0.6m x 1.6m", and the like can be listed. Further, as an example of the proximity placement permission attribute of the same attribute item, for example, "<2m" (i.e., permission of placement of another object less than 2m in proximity to the object) can be listed.

[0093] Further, as the proximity placement prohibition attribute in the "attribute item: world view" of the object, "≠ object attribute" (prohibition of placement of another object having a world view different from that of the object in proximity to the object) can be listed.

[0094] Still further, in the "attribute item: real age of player" of the object (e.g., avatar), as an example of the value of the object attribute, "25 years old" (real age of player of the object) and the like can be listed. Further, as an example of the proximity placement permission attribute of the same attribute item, "≧ 16 years old" (i.e., permission of placement of another object (e.g., avatar) of a player whose real age is 16 years old or older in proximity to the object) can be listed. Further, as an example of the proximity placement prohibition attribute of the same attribute item, "< 16 years old" (i.e., prohibition of placement of another object (e.g., avatar) of a player whose real age is less than 16 years old in proximity to the object) can be listed.

[0095] The determination expression can also be, for example, an expression of the result of value size comparison, whether or not matching a logical expression, and the like, which is written in a program that returns a binary value of true (true) / false (false) or the like.

[0096] In Table 6 above, the "management level" is a prohibition or permission level, and a criterion as shown in, for example, Table 7 below can be considered.

[0097] [Table 7]

[0098] Management level Standard 0 Non-management target 1 Not recommended 2 Without permission of the creator 3 Without permission of the PF operator 4 Legally not permitted

[0099] In Table 7 above, "management level 0: non-management target" indicates that the permission attribute or the prohibition attribute has been set, but no subsequent management needs to be performed. For example, even when another object does not correspond to the permission attribute or corresponds to the prohibition attribute, the user (PF operator or player) can perform placement.

[0100] Further, in Table 7 above, "management level 1: not recommended" assumes a case where placement of another object is not absolutely prohibited, but is not recommended either, even when the object does not satisfy the condition of the permission attribute or the prohibition attribute. For example, the user is warned that placement is not recommended, and then allowed to make the placement.

[0101] In addition, in Table 7 above, “Management Level 2: Without Permission of Creator” means that the prohibition attribute or the permission attribute has been set by the creator of the object. In this case, the creator has the authority to change the setting of the prohibition attribute or the permission attribute. The user (PF operator or player) can also request the creator who is authorized to change the setting to change the setting of the permission attribute or the prohibition attribute.

[0102] In addition, in Table 7 above, “Management Level 3: Without Permission of PF Operator” means that the prohibition attribute or the permission attribute has been set by the PF operator who has placed the object in the meta universe.

[0103] In addition, in Table 7 above, “Management Level 4: Legally Inadmissible” means that the prohibition attribute or the permission attribute has been set in accordance with the law and it is assumed that the creator or the PF operator cannot freely change the setting.

[0104] In the example shown in Table 6 above, the same management level can be set for a plurality of values or determination expressions, but in another example, such a hierarchy of setting the management level for each of the determination expressions or values can also be used.

[0105] As shown in Table 5 above, the determination area according to the present embodiment is set for each of the objects as the range when making the determination based on the proximity placement prohibition attribute or the permission attribute, but the present embodiment is not limited thereto. For example, the determination area can also be set for each of the attribute items, or the determination area can also be set for each of the prohibition attributes and the permission attributes of the respective attribute items. Alternatively, the same determination area can also be set for a plurality of values or determination expressions shown in Table 6 above, or the determination area can also be set for each of the determination expressions or values.

[0106] Although a specific description of the configuration of the management organization server 20 has been given previously, the configuration of the management organization server 20 according to the present disclosure is not limited to Figure 2 the example shown above. For example, the management organization server 20 does not necessarily need to have Figure 2 all the configurations shown above. Alternatively, the management organization server 20 can also be implemented by a plurality of devices.

[0107] <<1-3. Configuration of Meta Universe Server 30>>

[0108] Figure 3 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the meta universe server 30 according to the present embodiment. As Figure 3 shown, the meta universe server 30 includes a communication unit 310, a control unit 320, and a storage unit 330.

[0109] (Communication Unit 310)

[0110] The communication unit 310 has a transmitter that transmits data to an external device and a receiver that receives data from an external device. The communication unit 310 according to the present embodiment can also be communicatively connected to an external device or the Internet using, for example, a wired or wireless LAN (Local Area Network), Wi-Fi (registered trademark), Bluetooth (registered trademark), a mobile communication network (LTE (Long Term Evolution), 4G (4th Generation Mobile Communication System), 5G (5th Generation Mobile Communication System)), or the like.

[0111] (Control unit 320)

[0112] The control unit 320 functions as each of an arithmetic processing device and a control device, and controls general operations in the meta universe server 30 according to various programs. The control unit 320 is implemented by an electronic circuit such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or a microprocessor. The control unit 320 can also include a ROM (Read Only Memory) that stores programs to be used, arithmetic parameters, and the like, and a RAM (Random Access Memory) that temporarily stores parameters and the like that change accordingly.

[0113] The control unit 320 also functions as an object registration processing unit 321, a meta universe presentation control unit 322, and an object placement control unit 323.

[0114] The object registration processing unit 321 performs processing of registering an object in a meta universe. When an object is brought into a meta universe, the object registration processing unit 321 determines whether the object is usable in the meta universe. An object can be brought into a meta universe by, for example, an operation of uploading subject data (for example, a 3D model of the object) using the user terminal 10.

[0115] When a user (a PF operator or a player) attempts to bring an object into a meta universe, the object registration processing unit 321 determines whether the object is usable in the meta universe based on each of management information (an example of content management information) associated with the object and attribute information (an example of virtual space attribute information) of the meta universe.

[0116] The object registration processing unit 321 accesses the management organization server 20 to acquire the management information of the object. When a meta universe ID (see Table 2 above) included in the management information and permitting the use of the object is an ID (identification information) indicating a meta universe into which the object is intended to be brought, the object registration processing unit 321 determines that the object is usable.

[0117] Note that when the management information does not include a meta universe ID, the object registration processing unit 321 can also refer to a user ID that permits the use of the object, and determine that the object is usable when the meta universe into which the object is intended to be brought is a meta universe owned by a PF operator indicated by the user ID.

[0118] Meanwhile, when the management information includes a world view ID indicating a world view in which the use of the object is permitted, and when the world view of the meta universe into which the object is intended to be brought is the world view indicated by the world view ID, the object registration processing unit 321 can also determine that the object is usable.

[0119] The object registration processing unit 321 stores information of the object determined to be usable (e.g., a 3D model of the object) in the registered object DB 331. The object registration processing unit 321 also stores attribute information (see Table 5 above) included in the management information of the object in the registered object DB 331. Note that the attribute information can be embedded in the registered object.

[0120] The meta universe presentation control unit 322 performs meta universe presentation control on the user terminal 10. For example, the meta universe presentation control unit 322 performs control to continuously generate a meta universe video of a player's point of view and transmit the meta universe video to the user terminal 10. Alternatively, the meta universe presentation control unit 322 can also perform control to transmit information required to generate a meta universe video of a player's point of view to the user terminal 10.

[0121] The object placement control unit 323 controls the placement of objects in the meta universe. More specifically, when a user (a PF operator or a player) attempts to place an object (a registered object) determined by the object registration processing unit 321 to be usable in the meta universe and stored in the management information DB 231 in the meta universe, the object placement control unit 323 determines whether the object is placeable based on attribute information of the object (an example of first content attribute information) and attribute information of an object already placed in the meta universe (an example of second content attribute information). Thus, it is possible to prevent an object from being used in an undesirable situation against the intention of the object creator or the like.

[0122] For example, when the placement position of the object intended to be placed (hereinafter also referred to as a target object) is placed within a determined region of a placed object already placed in the meta universe, the object placement control unit 323 determines whether the target object is placeable based on at least one of the proximity placement prohibition attribute and the permission attribute of the placed object.

[0123] For example, when the target object corresponds to the adjacent placement prohibition attribute of the placed object, the object placement control unit 323 determines that the target object is not placeable, whereas when the target object does not correspond to the adjacent placement prohibition attribute of the placed object, the object placement control unit 323 determines that the target object is placeable. Alternatively, when the target object does not correspond to the adjacent placement permission attribute of the placed object, the object placement control unit 323 determines that the target object is not placeable, whereas when the target object corresponds to the adjacent placement permission attribute of the placed object, the object placement control unit 323 determines that the target object is placeable. Still alternatively, when the target object does not correspond to the adjacent placement prohibition attribute of the placed object and corresponds to the adjacent placement permission attribute of the placed object, the object placement control unit 323 determines that the target object is placeable.

[0124] Meanwhile, in a case where the placed object that has been placed is located within the determined region when the target object is placed at the placement position, the object placement control unit 323 determines whether the target object is placeable based on at least one of the adjacent placement prohibition attribute and the permission attribute of the target object.

[0125] For example, when the placed object corresponds to the adjacent placement prohibition attribute of the target object, the object placement control unit 323 determines that the target object is not placeable, whereas when the placed object does not correspond to the adjacent placement prohibition attribute of the target object, the object placement control unit 323 determines that the target object is placeable. Alternatively, when the placed object does not correspond to the adjacent placement permission attribute of the target object, the object placement control unit 323 determines that the target object is not placeable, whereas when the placed object corresponds to the adjacent placement permission attribute of the target object, the object placement control unit 323 determines that the target object is placeable. Still alternatively, when the placed object does not correspond to the adjacent placement prohibition attribute of the target object and corresponds to the adjacent placement permission attribute of the target object, the object placement control unit 323 determines that the target object is placeable.

[0126] Alternatively, when the target object satisfies the adjacent placement condition of the placed object (i.e., satisfies at least one of the condition of not corresponding to the adjacent placement prohibition attribute of the placed object and the condition of having the permission attribute) and the placed object satisfies the adjacent placement condition of the target object (i.e., satisfies at least one of the condition of not corresponding to the adjacent placement prohibition attribute of the target object and the condition of having the permission attribute), the object placement control unit 323 can also determine that the target object is placeable. Thus, it is possible to prevent either of the target object and the placed object from being used in an undesirable situation that violates the creator's intention of the object.

[0127] Note that as the "case where the object does not correspond to the permission attribute", assume a case where the value of the object attribute does not match the value of the permission attribute, a case where the determination expression of the permission attribute is not satisfied, or a case where the permission attribute does not have a value corresponding to the defined attribute item. Meanwhile, as the "case where the object does not correspond to the prohibition attribute", assume a case where the value of the object attribute does not match the value of the prohibition attribute, or a case where the determination expression of the prohibition attribute is not satisfied.

[0128] Further, one or more maps can be set in the meta universe. The object placement control unit 323 can also determine whether the placed object is placeable based on each of the attribute information of the intended placed object and the attribute information of the map. As shown in Table 5 above, a determination area can also be set to the map. When the placement position of the placed object is within the determination area of the map, when the placed object satisfies the proximity placement condition of the map, and when the map satisfies the proximity placement condition of the placed object, the object placement control unit 323 can also determine that the placed object is placeable. Note that when the determination area is not set to the map, the entire range of the map can also be assumed to be the determination area.

[0129] When it is determined that the target object is not placeable, the object placement control unit 323 notifies the user of the unplaceability and the reason for the unplaceability (for example, the placed object that causes the unplaceability or the prohibition attribute, the permission attribute, and the like that causes the unplaceability).

[0130] When it is determined that the target object is not placeable because the target object does not satisfy the proximity placement condition of the placed object, the object placement control unit 323 can also notify the user of whether or not the permission application for the proximity placement needs to be asked to the right holder of the placed object (the holder of the right to change the various settings shown in Table 5, such as the creator or the PF operator). The object placement control unit 323 can also notify whether or not the permission application for the proximity placement needs to be asked in accordance with the management level of the corresponding attribute item (see Table 7 above). For example, in the case of the management level: 4, the law does not permit placement, so the object placement control unit 323 does not notify whether or not the permission application for the proximity placement needs to be asked. In the case of the management level: 3, the creator permits placement, but the PF operator does not, so the object placement control unit 323 displays a screen asking the user whether or not to make the permission application for the proximity placement to the PF operator. In the case of the management level: 2, the creator does not permit placement, so the object placement control unit 323 displays a screen asking the user whether or not to make the permission application for the proximity placement to the creator. In the case of "management level: 1", the object placement control unit 323 warns that placement is not recommended, and then displays a screen asking the user whether or not to still perform placement. Note that in the case of "management level: 0", the object placement control unit 323 can also warn of the proximity placement condition that is not satisfied (for example, not suitable for the world view), and then place the placed object.

[0131] When it is determined that the target object is not placeable, the object placement control unit 323 can invalidate the operation of the user to place the target object, can display a warning, or can perform control to close the display of the target object. The invalidation of the placement operation and the display of the warning can also be performed simultaneously. For example, when an avatar of a player who has not reached the admission age attempts to enter a map provided with an age restriction, the object placement control unit 323 prohibits the avatar from entering the map, while notifying the player that the map has an age restriction and the avatar cannot enter. Alternatively, the object placement control unit 323 can also not render the target object determined to be not placeable, and notify the user that the target object is not displayed.

[0132] When the object placement control unit 323 determines that the placed object is not placeable because the placed object does not satisfy the proximity placement condition of the target object, and when the right holder of the target object (the holder of the right to change the various settings shown in Table 5, such as the creator or the PF operator) is the user himself who performs the placement operation, the object placement control unit 323 displays a screen asking the user whether or not to still place the target object along with a warning. As long as the user who performs the placement operation has made a non-permission setting, it is expected that the user can change the setting at his own will.

[0133] (Storage unit 330)

[0134] The storage unit 330 is realized by a ROM and a RAM, the ROM stores programs, arithmetic parameters, and the like to be used in processing by the control unit 320, and the RAM temporarily stores parameters and the like that change accordingly.

[0135] The storage unit 330 has a registered object DB 331 that stores information related to a registered object. As examples of the information related to a registered object, information of an object itself that is determined to be usable in the meta universe (subject data) and attribute information thereof can be listed. The subject data is, for example, a 3D model used to render the object. The attribute information can also be information included in the management information acquired from the management organization server 20 at the time of registration of the object.

[0136] Although a specific description of the configuration of the meta universe server 30 has been given previously, the configuration of the meta universe server 30 according to the present disclosure is not limited to Figure 3 the example shown. For example, the meta universe server 30 does not necessarily need to have Figure 3 all the configurations shown. Alternatively, the meta universe server 30 can also be realized by a plurality of devices.

[0137] <2. Operation processing>

[0138] Next, a description of the operation processing of the information processing system according to the present embodiment will be given with reference to the drawings.

[0139] <<2-1. Object usability determination processing>>

[0140] Figure 4 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of the object usability determination processing according to the present embodiment. When a user (a PF operator or a player) brings an object into the meta universe, the usability determination processing shown in Figure 4 may be executed.

[0141] As shown in Figure 4 , first, the object registration processing unit 321 of the meta universe server 30 acquires management information of an object that the user intends to bring into the meta universe from the management organization server (step S103).

[0142] Next, the object registration processing unit 321 determines whether or not the object to be brought into the meta universe is usable based on the management information acquired from the management organization server (step S106). Specifically, when the meta universe ID (see Table 2 above) included in the management information of the object to be brought in and permitting the use of the object is the ID (identification information) indicating the meta universe into which the object is intended to be brought, the object registration processing unit 321 determines that the object is usable.

[0143] Then, when it is determined that the object is usable (step S106 / Yes), the object registration processing unit 321 permits the object to be brought in (step S109). Specifically, the object registration processing unit 321 stores data on the object in the registered object DB 331 or notifies the user that the registration has been completed.

[0144] Meanwhile, when it is determined that the object is not usable (step S106 / No), the object registration processing unit 321 notifies the user that the object cannot be brought in (step S112). At this time, the object registration processing unit 321 can also notify the user that the creator of the object does not permit the object to be used in the meta universe.

[0145] <<2-2. Object Placability Determination Processing>>

[0146] Subsequently, a description will be given of the placability determination processing when an object is to be placed in the meta universe, with reference to Figure 5 Figure 5 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the flow of the object placability determination processing according to the present embodiment. Figure 5 The placability determination processing illustrated in Figure 4 is executed after step S109 of the usability determination processing illustrated in Figure 5 In the placability determination processing illustrated in

[0147] As Figure 5 indicated, first, the object placement control unit 323 of the meta universe server 30 acquires, from the registered object DB 331, the attribute information of the target object that the user (here, the PF operator) intends to place, the map of the placement destination, and one or more placed objects that have been placed in the map of the placement destination (step S203).

[0148] Next, the object placement control unit 323 acquires the respective determination regions of the target object, the map of the placement destination, and the one or more placed objects (step S206). Information on the determination regions is included in, for example, the attribute information.

[0149] Then, the object placement control unit 323 determines whether or not the target object is located within the determination region of the map or the placed object (step S209). Figure 6 ​is a drawing showing an example of each determination area of the target object O1, the map M1, and one or more placed objects O2 and O3. The position of the target object O1 in the map M1 is a position (placement candidate position) in which the user (for example, a PF operator) intends to place the target object O1 in the map M1. Such a placement candidate position can be specified by, for example, the PF operator by inputting coordinate information, or can also be intuitively specified by the PF operator or the like by a mouse operation.

[0150] In Figure 6 , the determination area A1 of the target object O1, the determination area A4 of the map M1 (the entire range of the map M1), the determination area A2 of the placed object O2, and the determination area A3 of the placed object O3 are shown. In this case, the object placement control unit 323 first determines that the target object O1 is located within each of the determination area A4 of the map M1 and the determination area A2 of the placed object O2.

[0151] Note that the respective sizes of the respective determination areas do not necessarily have to be the same, and can also be different from each other. In addition, the shape of each determination area is not limited to Figure 6 the circle shown, and can be an ellipse, a rectangle, or the like, or can also be an optional shape in which one object is different from another object. Furthermore, the determination area of the map can be a specified position in the map. Furthermore, each of the determination areas is not limited to a range in a plane, and can also be a spatial range. In the case where the target object or the placed object moves, the entire region in which the object can move can also be used as the determination area. In the present embodiment, it has been described that the determination area is included in the attribute information of the object, but the determination area is not limited thereto, and a predetermined shape (range) can also be prepared on the meta universe server 30 side, and the predetermined shape (range) including the object is used as the determination area of the object.

[0152] Meanwhile, when there is an occlusion object between the target object and the placed object, the object placement control unit 323 can also invalidate the determination of the region by the occlusion object. Figure 7 is a drawing showing the determination of the region when there is an occlusion object according to the present embodiment. In Figure 7In the example shown, there is an occlusion object S, such as a wall, that separates the target object O4 intended to be placed in the map M2 from the placed object O5 that has been placed in the map M2. In this case, the object placement control unit 323 makes the influence of each of the determination areas not involve an area beyond the occlusion object S. Specifically, for example, the target object O4 is in an area of the determination area A5 beyond the occlusion object S, and thus the area determination is invalid, i.e., it is determined that the target object O4 is not located within the determination area A5. Meanwhile, since the placed object O5 is in an area of the determination area A4 of the target object O4 beyond the occlusion object S, and thus the area determination is invalid, i.e., it is determined that the placed object O5 is not located within the determination area A4.

[0153] Next, when the target object is located within the determination area of the map or the placed object (step S209 / Yes), the object placement control unit 323 determines whether the target object corresponds to the prohibition attribute set to the map or the placed object (step S212). In the example shown, the target object O1 is located within each of the determination area A4 of the map M1 and the determination area A2 of the placed object O2, and thus the object placement control unit 323 checks whether the target object O1 corresponds to the prohibition attribute of the map M1 and the prohibition attribute of the placed object O2. Figure 6

[0154] Then, when the target object is not located within the determination area of the map or the placed object (step S209 / No), or when the target object does not correspond to the prohibition attribute set to the map or the placed object (step S212 / No), the object placement control unit 323 determines whether the placed object or the map located within the determination area of the target object corresponds to the prohibition attribute set to the target object (step S215).

[0155] For example, in the example shown, the placed object O2 is located within the determination area A1 of the target object O1, and thus the object placement control unit 323 determines whether the placed object O2 corresponds to the prohibition attribute set to the target object O1. The object placement control unit 323 also determines whether the map M1 corresponds to the prohibition attribute set to the target object O1. Figure 6

[0156] Then, when the placed object or the map located within the determination area of the target object does not correspond to the prohibition attribute set to the target object (step S215 / No), the object placement control unit 323 determines that the target object is placeable, i.e., places the target object (step S218).

[0157] ​​Meanwhile, when it is determined in the above step S212 that the target object corresponds to the prohibition attribute set to the map or the placed object (step S212 / YES), the object placement control unit 323 presents the prohibition attribute of the corresponding map or placed object to the user (step S221). Thus, it is possible to allow the user to identify the factor that has caused the unplaceability determination. The user can take measures such as placing the target object again at a position away from the corresponding placed object. When the map itself is the factor, measures such as stopping the placement in the map and placing the target object again in another map can be taken. The user can take measures such as changing the object to be placed in accordance with the corresponding prohibition attribute.

[0158] When it is determined in the above step S215 that the placed object or the map located within the determination region of the target object corresponds to the prohibition attribute set to the target object (step S215 / YES), the object placement control unit 323 presents the prohibition attribute of the corresponding (target object) and the corresponding map or placed object to the user (S224). Thus, it is possible to allow the user to identify the factor that has caused the unplaceability determination.

[0159] Although a specific description of the placeability determination processing according to the present embodiment has been given previously, the present embodiment is not limited to Figure 5 the example shown in Figure 5 In

[0160] Although Figure 5 the example shown in Figure 8 , a specific description will be given below.

[0161] <<2-3. Object placeability determination processing - placed by a player>>

[0162] Figure 8 is a flowchart showing another example of a flow of the object placeability determination processing according to the present embodiment.

[0163] As shown in Figure 8 First, the object placement control unit 323 of the meta universe server 30 acquires a target object (for example, a player's avatar) intended to be placed by a user (herein, a player), a map of a placement destination, and attribute information of one or more placed objects that have been placed in the map of the placement destination from the registered object DB 331 (step S233).

[0164] Then, the object placement control unit 323 acquires the target object, the map of the placement destination, and respective determination areas of the one or more placed objects (step S236).

[0165] Then, the object placement control unit 323 determines whether the target object corresponds to the prohibition attribute set to the map or the placed objects (step S239). The object placement control unit 323 determines whether the target object corresponds to the prohibition attribute set to the map or each of all the placed objects placed in the map (at least each of the placed objects placed within a range in which the user's avatar can move) regardless of the determination areas.

[0166] Next, the object placement control unit 323 determines whether the placed objects or the map correspond to the prohibition attribute set to the target object (step S242). The object placement control unit 323 determines whether the map or each of all the placed objects placed in the map (at least each of the placed objects placed within a range in which the user's avatar can move) corresponds to the prohibition attribute set to the target object regardless of the determination areas of the target object.

[0167] Thus, in the present embodiment, the placeability determination is performed between the avatar and all the placed objects before the operation of moving the avatar (target object) by the player.

[0168] Then, the object placement control unit 323 checks whether a correspondence with a prohibited attribute exists in each of the following: the placement location (the destination of the avatar) where the user (player) intends to place the target object (avatar), the location of the already placed object, and each of the defined areas (the target object, the map, and the defined area of ​​the already placed object) (step S245). In this embodiment, the existence of a correspondence with a prohibited attribute has already been determined in steps S239 to S242 above. Therefore, the object placement control unit 323 checks whether it is determined that the avatar corresponds to a prohibited attribute of an already placed object or a map with a defined area, which includes the location where the player intends to move the avatar (placement location), or checks whether it is determined that a map or an already placed object located in the defined area of ​​the avatar corresponds to a prohibited attribute of the avatar.

[0169] Next, when it is determined that there is no correspondence with the prohibited attribute (step S245 / No), the object placement control unit 323 determines that the target object is placeable, that is, places the object (step S251).

[0170] Then, each time the user performs the operation of moving the target object (step S254 / Yes), the object placement control unit 323 performs the processing shown in step S245 above.

[0171] When it is determined in S245 above that there is a correspondence with the prohibited attribute (step S245 / Yes), the object placement control unit 323 presents the corresponding prohibited attribute, the corresponding map, or the corresponding placed object (step S248).

[0172] While a detailed description of the player-placed scenario has been given previously as another example of the placeability determination process according to this embodiment, this embodiment is not limited to... Figure 8 The example shown. In Figure 8 The determination based on the proximity-based prohibition attribute has been described through an example, but it can also be determined by further considering the permission attribute. In step S248 above, the object placement control unit 323 can also invalidate the user's movement operation and present at least the prohibition attribute and the necessary permission attribute.

[0173] <3. Supplement>

[0174] While a detailed description of preferred embodiments of the present disclosure has been given prior with reference to the accompanying drawings, the technology is not limited to these examples. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications or improvements can be conceived within the scope of the technical concept described in the claims, and these should also be understood to fall within the technical scope of the present disclosure.

[0175] For example, in the above-described embodiments, as an example of the content, objects such as characters, avatars, items, buildings, or maps are listed, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. As another example of the content, for example, images, videos, sounds, and the like can be listed.

[0176] Regarding the drawing of the object, depending on the creator, it is also assumed that there is a demand to allow drawing only in a specified direction. Therefore, it is also possible to include drawing direction specification information in the attribute information of the object, and the meta universe presentation control unit 322 draws the object based on the drawing direction specification information when generating a meta universe video or the like. Alternatively, it is also possible to include placement direction specification information in the attribute information of the object, and the object placement control unit 323 restricts the placement of the object based on the placement direction specification information when placing the target object.

[0177] One or more computer programs for causing hardware such as a CPU, a ROM, or a RAM embedded in the management organization server 20 or the meta universe server 30 to execute the functions of the management organization server 20 or the meta universe server 30 described above can also be generated. Furthermore, a computer-readable storage medium having one or more computer programs stored thereon is also provided.

[0178] Furthermore, the effects described in the present specification are merely descriptive or illustrative and are not limiting. In other words, in addition to or in place of the above effects, other effects obvious to those skilled in the art from the description of the present specification can also be achieved by the technology according to the present disclosure.

[0179] Note that the present technology can also be embodied by the following configurations. (1)

[0181] An information processing apparatus comprising:

[0182] circuitry configured to:

[0183] determine, based on virtual space attribute information associated with a virtual space of a plurality of different virtual spaces and first content management information associated with first content, whether the first content is permitted to be used in the virtual space, and

[0184] when the first content is permitted to be used in the virtual space, control placement of the first content in the virtual space based on first content attribute information of the first content and second content attribute information associated with second content that has been placed in the virtual space. (2)

[0186] The information processing apparatus according to (1) described above, in which

[0187] when the first content corresponds to the adjacent placement permission attribute included in the second content attribute information, or

[0188] when the second content corresponds to the adjacent placement permission attribute included in the first content attribute information,

[0189] the circuitry determines that the first content is not permitted to be placed adjacent to the second content, and,

[0190] wherein,

[0191] when the first content does not correspond to the adjacent placement permission attribute included in the second content attribute information, and

[0192] when the second content does not correspond to the adjacent placement permission attribute included in the first content attribute information,

[0193] the circuitry determines that the first content is permitted to be placed adjacent to the second content. (3)

[0195] The information processing device according to any one of (1) to (3) above, wherein,

[0196] when the first content corresponds to the adjacent placement permission attribute included in the second content attribute information, and

[0197] when the second content corresponds to the adjacent placement permission attribute included in the first content attribute information,

[0198] the circuitry determines that the first content is permitted to be placed adjacent to the second content, and,

[0199] wherein,

[0200] when the first content does not correspond to the adjacent placement permission attribute included in the second content attribute information, or

[0201] when the second content does not correspond to the adjacent placement permission attribute included in the first content attribute information,

[0202] the circuitry determines that the first content is not permitted to be placed adjacent to the second content. (4)

[0204] The information processing device according to any one of (1) to (3) above, wherein,

[0205] When the first content does not correspond to the proximity placement prohibition attribute included in the second content attribute information, and the first content corresponds to the proximity placement permission attribute included in the second content attribute information, the circuitry determines that the first content is permitted to be placed adjacent to the second content. (5)

[0207] The information processing device according to any one of (1) to (4) above,

[0208] When the position at which the first content is planned to be placed is included in a range indicated by the proximity placement determination area included in the second content attribute information, the circuitry determines whether the first content is permitted to be placed adjacent to the second content. (6)

[0210] The information processing device according to any one of (1) to (5) above,

[0211] When it is determined that the first content is not permitted to be placed adjacent to the second content in the virtual space, the circuitry is further configured to notify a user who performs an operation of placing the first content whether an inquiry about permission application to a right holder of the second content is required. (7)

[0213] The information processing device according to any one of (1) to (6) above,

[0214] When the position at which the first content is planned to be placed is included in a range indicated by the proximity placement determination area included in the second content attribute information, and

[0215] When an occlusion object separates the first content from the second content,

[0216] The circuitry determines that the first content is permitted to be placed in the indicated range regardless of proximity permission attributes or prohibition attributes included in the first content attribute information and the second content attribute information. (8)

[0218] The information processing device according to any one of (1) to (7) above,

[0219] When the circuitry determines that the first content is not permitted to be used in the virtual space based on a correspondence relationship with a prohibition attribute, the circuitry is further configured to notify a user who performs an operation of placing the first content of the correspondence relationship with the prohibition attribute. (9)

[0221] The information processing device according to any one of (1) to (8) above, in which

[0222] The circuitry determines that the first content is permitted to be placed adjacent to the second content when the second content does not correspond to the adjacent placement prohibition attribute included in the first content attribute information and the second content corresponds to the adjacent placement permission attribute included in the first content attribute information. (10)

[0224] The information processing device according to any one of (1) to (9) above, in which

[0225] The circuitry determines whether the first content is permitted to be placed in the range indicated by the adjacent placement determination region included in the first content attribute information when the second content is located in the range. (11)

[0227] The information processing device according to any one of (1) to (10) above, in which

[0228] The circuitry is further configured to initiate display of a screen that asks a user who performs an operation of placing the first content whether to place the first content and a warning when the circuitry determines that the first content is not permitted to be placed in the virtual space and the right holder of the first content is the user. (12)

[0230] The information processing device according to any one of (1) to (11) above, in which

[0231] The circuitry is further configured to notify a user who performs an operation of placing the first content of at least one of a corresponding prohibition attribute or a necessary permission attribute and the second content that causes the determination that the first content is not permitted to be placed in the virtual space when it is determined that the first content is not permitted to be placed in the virtual space. (13)

[0233] The information processing device according to any one of (1) to (12) above, in which

[0234] The first content attribute information is included in the first content management information. (14)

[0236] The information processing device according to any one of (1) to (13) above, in which

[0237] The circuitry determines whether the first content is usable in the virtual space based on: information related to each virtual space that permits use of the first content, the information being included in the first content management information; and the virtual space attribute information. (15)

[0239] The information processing device according to any one of (1) to (14) above, in which

[0240] The information related to the virtual space that permits use of the first content is virtual space identification information or world view information. (16)

[0242] The information processing device according to any one of (1) to (15) above, in which

[0243] When it is determined that the first content is not permitted to be used in the virtual space, the circuitry is further configured to notify a user who performs an operation of bringing in the first content that the first content is not permitted to be brought in the virtual space. (17)

[0245] The information processing device according to any one of (1) to (16) above, in which

[0246] The first content or the second content includes at least one of an avatar, a character, or an item, and

[0247] The first content attribute information or the second content attribute information includes: information on each attribute item, the attribute item including at least one of a content size, a weight, a world view, an age, a gender, a race, a classification, or a profession; and information on a proximity placement prohibition attribute or a permission attribute in each attribute item. (18)

[0249] The information processing device according to any one of (1) to (17) above, in which

[0250] The circuitry controls placement of the first content in a map to be set in the virtual space based on each of the first content attribute information of the first content and attribute information associated with the map. (19)

[0252] An information processing method, comprising:

[0253] determining whether a first content is permitted to be used in a virtual space based on virtual space attribute information associated with the virtual space among a plurality of different virtual spaces, and first content management information associated with the first content; and

[0254] when the first content is permitted to be used in the virtual space, controlling placement of the first content in the virtual space based on first content attribute information of the first content and second content attribute information associated with second content that has been placed in the virtual space. (20)

[0256] A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium including a program, the program, when executed by a computer, causing the computer to execute a method, the method comprising:

[0257] determining whether first content is permitted to be used in a virtual space based on virtual space attribute information associated with the virtual space among a plurality of different virtual spaces and first content management information associated with the first content; and

[0258] when the first content is permitted to be used in the virtual space, controlling placement of the first content in the virtual space based on first content attribute information of the first content and second content attribute information associated with second content that has been placed in the virtual space.

[0259] [LIST OF REFERENCE NUMERALS]

[0260] 1 information processing system

[0261] 10 user terminal

[0262] 20 management organization server

[0263] 210 communication unit

[0264] 220 control unit

[0265] 221 object management unit

[0266] 230 storage unit

[0267] 231 management information DB

[0268] 30 meta universe server

[0269] 310 communication unit

[0270] 320 control unit

[0271] 321 object registration processing unit

[0272] 322 meta universe presentation control unit

[0273] 323 object placement control unit

[0274] 330 storage unit

[0275] 331 registered object DB

[0276] 40 network

Claims

1. An information processing apparatus comprising: circuitry configured to: determine, based on virtual space attribute information associated with a virtual space among a plurality of different virtual spaces and first content management information associated with a first content, whether the first content is permitted to be used in the virtual space, and when the first content is permitted to be used in the virtual space, control placement of the first content in the virtual space based on first content attribute information of the first content and second content attribute information associated with a second content that has been placed in the virtual space. 2.The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, when the first content corresponds to a proximity placement prohibition attribute included in the second content attribute information, or when the second content corresponds to a proximity placement prohibition attribute included in the first content attribute information, the circuitry determines that the first content is not permitted to be placed adjacent to the second content, and, wherein, when the first content does not correspond to the proximity placement prohibition attribute included in the second content attribute information, and when the second content does not correspond to the proximity placement prohibition attribute included in the first content attribute information, the circuitry determines that the first content is permitted to be placed adjacent to the second content. 3.The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, when the first content corresponds to a proximity placement permission attribute included in the second content attribute information, and when the second content corresponds to a proximity placement permission attribute included in the first content attribute information, the circuitry determines that the first content is permitted to be placed adjacent to the second content, and, wherein, when the first content does not correspond to the proximity placement permission attribute included in the second content attribute information, or when the second content does not correspond to the proximity placement permission attribute included in the first content attribute information, the circuitry determines that the first content is not permitted to be placed adjacent to the second content. 4.The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, when the first content does not correspond to a proximity placement prohibition attribute included in the second content attribute information, and the first content corresponds to a proximity placement permission attribute included in the second content attribute information, the circuitry determines that the first content is permitted to be placed adjacent to the second content. 5.The information processing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein, when a position where the first content is planned to be placed is included in a range indicated by a proximity placement determination region included in the second content attribute information, the circuitry determines whether the first content is permitted to be placed adjacent to the second content. 6.The information processing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein, when it is determined that the first content is not permitted to be placed adjacent to the second content in the virtual space, the circuitry is further configured to notify a user who performs an operation of placing the first content whether an inquiry about a permission application to a right holder of the second content is required.

7. The information processing device according to claim 1, wherein when the position at which the first content is scheduled to be placed is included in a range indicated by a proximity placement determination area indicated in the second content attribute information, and when an occlusion object separates the first content from the second content, the circuitry determines that the first content is permitted to be placed in the indicated range regardless of a proximity permission attribute or a proximity prohibition attribute included in the first content attribute information and the second content attribute information.

8. The information processing device according to claim 1, wherein when the circuitry determines that the first content is not permitted to be used in the virtual space based on a correspondence relation to a prohibition attribute, the circuitry is further configured to notify a user who performs an operation of placing the first content of the correspondence relation to the prohibition attribute.

9. The information processing device according to claim 1, wherein when the second content does not correspond to a proximity placement prohibition attribute included in the first content attribute information, and the second content corresponds to a proximity placement permission attribute included in the first content attribute information, the circuitry determines that the first content is permitted to be placed in proximity to the second content.

10. The information processing device according to claim 2, wherein when the second content is located in a range indicated by a proximity placement determination area indicated in the first content attribute information, the circuitry determines whether the first content is permitted to be placed in the indicated range.

11. The information processing device according to claim 2, wherein when the circuitry determines that the first content is not permitted to be placed in the virtual space and a right holder of the first content is a user who performs an operation of placing the first content, the circuitry is further configured to initiate display of a screen that asks the user whether to place the first content and a warning.

12. The information processing device according to claim 1, wherein when it is determined that the first content is not permitted to be placed in the virtual space, the circuitry is further configured to notify a user who performs an operation of placing the first content of at least one of a corresponding prohibition attribute or a necessary permission attribute, and a second content that causes the first content to be determined as not being permitted to be placed in the virtual space.

13. The information processing device according to claim 1, wherein the first content attribute information is included in the first content management information.

14. The information processing device according to claim 1, wherein the circuitry determines whether the first content is usable in the virtual space based on: information related to each virtual space in which use of the first content is permitted, the information being included in the first content management information, and the virtual space attribute information.

15. The information processing device according to claim 14, wherein the information related to the virtual space in which use of the first content is permitted is virtual space identification information or world view information. 16.The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein when it is determined that the first content is not permitted to be used in the virtual space, the circuitry is further configured to notify a user who performs an operation of bringing in the first content that the first content is not permitted to be brought in the virtual space. 17.The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the first content or the second content includes at least one of an avatar, a character, or an item, and wherein the first content attribute information or the second content attribute information includes: information on each attribute item, the attribute item including at least one of a content size, a weight, a worldview, an age, a gender, a race, a category, or a profession, and information on a proximity placement prohibition attribute or a permission attribute in each attribute item. 18.The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the circuitry controls placement of the first content in a map to be set in the virtual space based on each of the first content attribute information of the first content and attribute information associated with the map. 19.An information processing method implemented via at least one processor, the method comprising: determining whether a first content is permitted to be used in a virtual space based on virtual space attribute information associated with the virtual space among a plurality of different virtual spaces, and first content management information associated with the first content; when the first content is permitted to be used in the virtual space, controlling placement of the first content in the virtual space based on first content attribute information of the first content and second content attribute information associated with a second content that has been placed in the virtual space. 20.A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium including a program, the program, when executed by a computer, causing the computer to perform a method, the method comprising: determining whether a first content is permitted to be used in a virtual space based on virtual space attribute information associated with the virtual space among a plurality of different virtual spaces, and first content management information associated with the first content; when the first content is permitted to be used in the virtual space, controlling placement of the first content in the virtual space based on first content attribute information of the first content and second content attribute information associated with a second content that has been placed in the virtual space. ​ ​

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