Information processing apparatus, information processing method, and program

Abstract

To solve a problem to enable transaction of values in which a real space and a virtual space intervene to be conducted securely with trust ensured between traders.SOLUTION: A transaction information management unit 58 records in a block chain B and manages, as transaction information, information on a first value, information on a first user, information on a second value, and information on a second user, when performing a first transaction for exchanging the first value and the second value between the first user existing in a real space or a virtual space having the first value in the real space or the virtual space and the second user existing in the real space or the virtual space having the second value in the real space and the virtual space. A transaction control unit 57 controls a second transaction by using the transaction information recorded and managed in the block chain B when the second transaction related to at least parts of the first value, the first user, the second value, and the second user. Thereby the above problem is solved.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an information processing device, an information processing method, and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] In recent years, we are moving from an era of purchasing things to an era of renting. There are services for lending and borrowing goods, such as BtoC (Business to Consumer), where companies rent goods to general consumers, but a person-to-person rental service has not yet been realized. In addition, systems that match two parties (see Patent Document 1) and various services for CtoC (Consumer to Consumer) electronic commerce (Mercari, Yahoo! Auctions, etc.) have already been provided, but these are limited to buying and selling goods. Mercari and Yahoo! Auctions are registered trademarks. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2015-129983 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, in conventional technology, the subject of CtoC electronic commerce does not include rental of goods, nor does it include transactions that involve virtual space.

[0005] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above circumstances, and aims to enable safe trading of value in transactions involving real and virtual spaces while ensuring trust between transactors. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In order to achieve the above object, an information processing device according to one aspect of the present invention comprises: a management means for recording and managing, when a first transaction is made between a first user who exists in the real space or the virtual space and has a first value in the real space or the virtual space, and a second user who exists in the real space or the virtual space and has a second value in the real space or the virtual space, information on the first value, information on the first user, information on the second value, and information on the second user as transaction information in a blockchain or a distributed ledger; a transaction control means for controlling a second transaction related to at least a part of the first value, the first user, the second value, and the second user, by using the transaction information recorded and managed in the blockchain or the distributed ledger by the management means when the second transaction is made; Equipped with.

[0007] An information processing method and a program according to one aspect of the present invention are each an information processing method and a program corresponding to the information processing device according to the aspect of the present invention described above. Effect of the Invention

[0008] According to the present invention, in a transaction involving real space and virtual space, value can be traded safely while ensuring trust between transactors. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram showing an outline of a configuration of an information processing system including a management server according to an embodiment of the information processing device of the present invention. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of an information processing system to which the present service of FIG. 1 is applied, that is, an information processing system to which a management server according to an embodiment of an information processing device of the present invention is applied. [Diagram 3] 2 is a block diagram showing a hardware configuration of the management server of FIG. 1. [Figure 4]4 is a functional block diagram illustrating an example of a functional configuration of the management server of FIG. 3. [Diagram 5] 5 is a diagram showing a specific example of a transaction that can be realized in the present service of FIG. 1 provided by a management server having the functional configuration of FIG. 4. [Figure 6] 6 is a diagram showing a specific example of a transaction that can be realized in the service of FIG. 1 provided by a management server having the functional configuration of FIG. 4, which is different from that of FIG. 5. FIG. [Figure 7] 5 and 6. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a specific example of a transaction that can be realized in the service of FIG. 1 provided by a management server having the functional configuration of FIG. [Figure 8] FIG. 1 is a diagram for explaining an overview of a fund that can be realized by applying an information processing system according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an outline of the configuration of an information processing system applied to the track fund of FIG. 8, that is, an information processing system according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] 1 is an image diagram showing the basic flow of a rental service that can be realized by applying an information processing system according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11] FIG. 1 is an image diagram showing the flow of fees paid by a renter user in a rental service. [Figure 12] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a case where a loan application is made via a GUI (Graphical User Interface) displayed on a lender terminal 2 and a borrower terminal 2. [Figure 13] 5 is a diagram showing a specific example of the first stage of a first transaction regarding an investment that can be realized in the service of FIG. 1 provided by a management server having the functional configuration of FIG. 4. [Figure 14] 5 is a diagram showing a specific example of the second stage of a first transaction regarding an investment that can be realized in the service of FIG. 1 provided by a management server having the functional configuration of FIG. 4. [Figure 15]5 is a diagram showing a specific example of the third stage of a first transaction regarding an investment that can be realized in the service of FIG. 1 provided by a management server having the functional configuration of FIG. 4. [Figure 16] 5 is a diagram showing a specific example of the fourth stage of a first transaction regarding an investment that can be realized in the present service of FIG. 1 provided by a management server having the functional configuration of FIG. 4. [Figure 17A] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a specific example of asset handling in a virtual investment target in a virtual space. [Figure 17B] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a specific example of asset handling in a virtual investment target in a virtual space. [Figure 17C] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a specific example of asset handling in a virtual investment target in a virtual space. [Figure 17D] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a specific example of asset handling in a virtual investment target in a virtual space. [Figure 18] 5 is a diagram showing a specific example of the first stage of a second transaction regarding an investment that can be realized in the present service of FIG. 1 provided by a management server having the functional configuration of FIG. 4. [Figure 19] 5 is a diagram showing a specific example of the second stage of a second transaction regarding an investment that can be realized in the service of FIG. 1 provided by a management server having the functional configuration of FIG. 4. [Figure 20] 5 is a diagram showing a specific example of the third stage of a second transaction regarding an investment that can be realized in the present service of FIG. 1 provided by a management server having the functional configuration of FIG. 4. [Figure 21] 5 is a diagram showing a specific example of the fourth stage of a second transaction regarding an investment that can be realized in the present service of FIG. 1 provided by a management server having the functional configuration of FIG. 4. [Figure 22] 5 is a diagram showing investment cases that can be realized in the service of FIG. 1 provided by a management server having the functional configuration of FIG. 4. [Diagram 23] 5 is a diagram showing a specific example of a first pattern of fund investment that can be realized in the present service of FIG. 1 provided by a management server having the functional configuration of FIG. 4. FIG. [Figure 24] 5 is a diagram showing a specific example of a second pattern of fund investment that can be realized in the present service of FIG. 1 provided by a management server having the functional configuration of FIG. 4. FIG. [Diagram 25] 5 is a diagram showing a specific example of a third pattern of fund investment that can be realized in the present service of FIG. 1 provided by a management server having the functional configuration of FIG. 4. FIG. [Figure 26] 5 is a diagram showing a specific example of a first pattern of fund investment that can be realized in the present service of FIG. 1 provided by a management server having the functional configuration of FIG. 4. FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0010] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0011] First, with reference to FIG. 1, an overview of a service (hereinafter, referred to as "this service") that can be realized by an information processing system to which a management server according to an embodiment of the present invention is applied will be described. FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an overview of the present service that can be realized by an information processing system to which a management server according to an embodiment of the information processing device of the present invention is applied.

[0012] As shown in Figure 1, with the origin at the center, the upper part of Figure 1 shows real space (the real world), and the lower part shows virtual space. The closer to the origin, the stronger the relationship between real space (the real world) and virtual space, and the farther away from the origin, the deeper the world that is unique to real space (the real world) or virtual space. Also, with the origin at the center, the left side of Figure 1 shows buying and selling transactions, and the right side shows rentals.

[0013] The first quadrant GL is the area where rentals are done in the real world and where currency circulating in the real world is used. Hereinafter, this first quadrant GL will be called the "real world rental area GL." The second quadrant area GB is the area where sales are conducted in the real world and where currency circulating in the real world is used. Hereinafter, this first quadrant area GB will be referred to as the "real world sales area GB." The third quadrant area VB is an area where sales are conducted in virtual space, and virtual currencies (crypto assets) circulating in virtual space are used. Hereinafter, such an area VB in the first quadrant will be referred to as the "virtual space / trading area VB." Here, the shallower (closer to the origin) area VBS of the virtual space trading area VB is the area in which the subject of trading is virtual currency. In contrast, the deeper (further from the origin) area VBD of the virtual space trading area VB is an area where the objects to be traded are objects (items, land in the virtual space, etc.) that are to be placed in the metaverse (virtual space). The fourth quadrant area VL is an area where rental activities are carried out in virtual space, and where virtual currency circulating in virtual space is used. Hereinafter, such a fourth quadrant area VL is referred to as the "virtual space rental area VL." Here, the shallower (closer to the origin) area VLS of the virtual space rental area VL is an area where the rental item is virtual currency (encrypted currency). In contrast, the deeper (further from the origin) area VLD of the virtual space rental area VL is an area where the rental items are objects (items, land in the virtual space, etc.) that are placed in the metaverse (virtual space).

[0014] Conventionally, as a service OS1 in the real world / sales domain GB, there have been services for buying and selling goods using CtoC electronic commerce, such as Mercari (registered trademark) and Yahoo! Auctions (registered trademark). In contrast to this conventional service OS1, the applicant has already proposed a rental service for items using CtoC e-commerce, as shown by the dotted arrow pointing toward the real world / rental area GL (see Patent Application No. 2021-063369, Patent No. 7092949, etc.).

[0015] Further, conventionally, there has been a service OS2 in the domain VBS of the virtual space / trading domain VB, for example, a trading service for virtual currency such as Bitcoin (registered trademark).

[0016] As an example of this service, it is possible to provide a so-called money lending service NS1 of virtual currency such as Bitcoin (registered trademark), as shown by the arrow pointing from the conventional service OS2 to the shallow area VLS of the virtual space rental area VL. A specific example of the virtual currency lending service NS1 will be described later with reference to FIG.

[0017] As another example of this service, a service NS2 can be provided for buying, selling, or renting objects (items, land in a virtual space, etc.) within the metaverse (virtual space), as shown by the arrow pointing from the deep area VBD of the virtual space / trading area VB to the deep area VLD of the virtual space / rental area VL.

[0018] Furthermore, if we understand real-world items, real-world currency or gold, virtual-space objects, and virtual-space virtual currencies as "value," then as an example of this service, the following service NS3 can be provided, as shown by the arrow pointing from the virtual-space rental area VL to the real-world rental area GL. In other words, a service that supports a transaction for exchanging a first value and a second value between a first user existing in a real space or virtual space having a first value in the real space or virtual space and a second user existing in a real space or virtual space having a second value in the real space or virtual space, where at least some of the first value, the first user, the second value, and the second user are from the virtual space, can be provided as service NS3. As will be easily understood from the above description of service NS3, the arrow indicating service NS3 in Fig. 1 is merely an example. In other words, service NS3 can be represented not only by the arrow shown in Fig. 1, but also by arrows in various directions not shown in Fig. 1.

[0019] The services represented by NS1 to NS3 also guarantee the safety of transactions. Specifically, when a transaction is made between a first user and a second user to exchange a first value for a second value, the service records and manages information on the first value, information on the first user, information on the second value, and information on the second user as transaction information in a blockchain or a distributed ledger. Note that in the following example, a blockchain is used.

[0020] Blockchain is configured to combine cryptographic technology with multiple computers that make up a distributed network to synchronously record data such as transaction information. In the case of blockchain, transaction information over a certain period of time is compiled into blocks, and correct records are stored in a chain-like fashion as computers verify each other. A characteristic of blockchain is that even if transaction data is tampered with on some computers, the correct transaction data is selected by majority vote with the other computers, preventing record tampering and fraudulent transactions. Blockchain creates units of data called blocks and links them in a chronological order like a chain to form a database. Each block has a hash value (a value calculated by a hash function) of the previous block in the chain, and by tracing back through it, the chain can be traced. If someone attempts to tamper with information in a previously generated block managed in the blockchain, the hash value calculated from the changed block will be different from the previous one, and the hash values ​​of all subsequent blocks will have to be changed. This makes it practically difficult to make such changes, and measures are in place to prevent tampering.

[0021] Next, with reference to FIG. 2, a description will be given of the configuration of an information processing system that realizes the provision of the above-mentioned service, that is, an information processing system to which a management server according to an embodiment of an information processing device of the present invention is applied. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of an information processing system to which the present service of FIG. 1 is applied, that is, an information processing system to which a management server according to an embodiment of an information processing device of the present invention is applied.

[0022] The information processing system shown in Figure 2 is composed of a management server 1, user terminals 2-1 to 2-n (n is any integer value greater than or equal to 1), virtual space servers 3-1 to 3-m (m is any integer value greater than or equal to 1), and a blockchain B, which are connected to each other so that they can communicate with each other via a specified network N such as the Internet.

[0023] The management server 1 is an information processing device managed by a party M (hereinafter referred to as "service provider M") that provides the present service in Fig. 1. The management server 1 exchanges various information with the user terminals 2-1 to 2-n, the virtual space servers 3-1 to 3-m, and the blockchain B, and executes various processes for providing the present service.

[0024] Each of the user terminals 2-1 to 2-n is an information processing device operated by each of users UG1 to UGn (hereinafter referred to as "real users UG1 to UGn") who exist in the real world, and is constituted by, for example, a personal computer, a smartphone, a tablet, or the like. In the following, when there is no need to distinguish between the real users UG1 to UGn, they will be collectively referred to as "real users UG." Also, when referring to real users UG, the user terminals 2-1 to 2-n will be collectively referred to as "user terminals 2."

[0025] Each of the virtual space servers 3-1 to 3-m is an information processing device for constructing a virtual space and providing a predetermined service, etc. Here, the virtual space managed by the virtual space server 3-p (p is an integer value of 1 to m) and the virtual space managed by the virtual space server 3-q (q is an integer value of 1 to m excluding p) may be different or the same. In the following description, when there is no need to distinguish between the virtual space servers 3-1 to 3-m, they will be collectively referred to as the "virtual space server 3."

[0026] Next, a hardware configuration of the management server 1 that executes various processes for providing this service will be described. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a hardware configuration of the management server of FIG.

[0027] The management server 1 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 11, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 12, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 13, a bus 14, an input / output interface 15, an input unit 16, an output unit 17, a memory unit 18, a communication unit 19, and a drive 20.

[0028] The CPU 11 executes various processes according to a program recorded in the ROM 12 or a program loaded from the storage unit 18 into the RAM 13 . The RAM 13 also stores data and the like necessary for the CPU 11 to execute various processes.

[0029] The CPU 11, ROM 12, and RAM 13 are connected to one another via a bus 14. An input / output interface 15 is also connected to this bus 14. An input unit 16, an output unit 17, a storage unit 18, a communication unit 19, and a drive 20 are connected to the input / output interface 15.

[0030] The input unit 16 is composed of various hardware devices and the like, and inputs various types of information. The output unit 17 is composed of various displays, various speakers, etc., and outputs various information as images and sounds. The storage unit 18 is configured with a dynamic random access memory (DRAM) or the like, and stores various data. The communication unit 19 controls communication with other devices (for example, the user terminals 2-1 to 2-n and the virtual space servers 3-1 to 3-m in FIG. 1) and the blockchain B via a network N including the Internet.

[0031] The drive 20 is provided as necessary. Removable media 30, which may be a magnetic disk, an optical disk, a magneto-optical disk, or a semiconductor memory, is appropriately mounted in the drive 20. The program read from the removable media 30 by the drive 20 is installed in the storage unit 18 as necessary. The removable media 30 can also store various data stored in the storage unit 18 in the same manner as the storage unit 18.

[0032] Next, the functional configuration of the management server 1 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 4 is a functional block diagram illustrating an example of the functional configuration of the management server of FIG.

[0033] As shown in FIG. 4, in the CPU 11 of the management server 1, a real space information acquisition unit 51, a real user information acquisition unit 52, a real value information acquisition unit 53, a virtual space information acquisition unit 54, an avatar information acquisition unit 55, a virtual value information acquisition unit 56, a transaction control unit 57, and a transaction information management unit 58 function.

[0034] In a value exchange transaction, when at least some of the objects of value exchange and the transactors are in the real space, the real space information acquisition unit 51 acquires information about the real space (hereinafter referred to as "real space information") from the user terminal 2 (user terminals 2A and 2B in the example of Figure 4) of the real user UG performing the operations for the transaction. Here, the real-space information required for value exchange includes information about real users UG (hereinafter referred to as "real user information") and information about value in the real space (goods and services to be bought and sold or rented, real-space currency, etc.) (hereinafter referred to as "real value information"). The physical user information acquisition unit 52 acquires physical user information from the real space information and provides it to the transaction control unit 57 . The real value information acquisition unit 53 acquires real value information from the real space information and provides it to the transaction control unit 57 .

[0035] In a value exchange transaction, when at least some of the objects of value exchange and the transactors are involved in a virtual space, the virtual space information acquisition unit 54 acquires information about the virtual space (hereinafter referred to as "virtual space information") from the virtual space server that manages the virtual space. Here, the virtual space information required for value exchange includes information about users who exist as avatars in the virtual space as traders (hereinafter referred to as "avatar information") and information about value in the virtual space (objects existing in the virtual space that can be bought and sold or rented, virtual currency, etc.) (hereinafter referred to as "virtual value information"). The avatar information acquisition unit 55 acquires avatar information from the virtual space information and provides it to the transaction control unit 57 . The virtual value information acquisition unit 56 acquires virtual value information from the virtual space information, and provides it to the transaction control unit 57 .

[0036] The transaction control unit 57 executes various control processes related to a first transaction for exchanging a first value and a second value between a first user existing in a real space or virtual space having a first value in the real space or virtual space, and a second user existing in a real space or virtual space having a second value in the real space or virtual space, where at least some of the first value, the first user, the second value, and the second user are in the virtual space. Various specific examples of the first value, the first user, the second value, and the second user will be described later with reference to FIG. 5 and subsequent drawings.

[0037] When a first transaction is made as a result of the control of the transaction control unit 57, the transaction information management unit 58 records and manages information regarding the first value, information regarding the first user, information regarding the second value, and information regarding the second user as transaction information in blockchain B.

[0038] When the first transaction is completed in this manner and the transaction information of the first transaction is recorded in blockchain B, when a second transaction related to at least some of the first value, the first user, the second value, and the second user is made, the transaction control unit 57 executes various control processes related to the second transaction using the transaction information of the first transaction recorded and managed in blockchain B.

[0039] Next, with reference to FIGS. 5 to 7, a specific example of a transaction that can be realized in the present service of FIG. 1 provided by the management server 1 having the functional configuration of FIG. 4 will be described.

[0040] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a specific example of a transaction that can be realized in the present service of FIG. 1 provided by the management server having the functional configuration of FIG. In the example of Figure 5, a first user RU1 existing in the real space or the virtual space has 100 bots of virtual currency (bot is a unit of cryptocurrency) as a first value, and rents it to a second user RU2 existing in the real space or the virtual space, on the condition that the monthly repayment amount is 10 bots and the monthly interest is 1 bot. In other words, the second value for the second user RU2 is the monthly repayment amount in virtual currency and monthly interest. Here, the first user RU1 or the second user RU2 becomes a real user UG when it exists in a real space, and becomes a virtual user as an avatar when it exists in a virtual space.

[0041] In this case, transaction information B1 as shown in Figure 5 is generated, recorded in the blockchain B, and managed. That is, information regarding the first value includes “rental target virtual currency 100 bot,” information regarding the first user includes “lender first user RU1,” information regarding the second value includes “repayment 10 bot / month” and “interest 1 bot / month,” and information regarding the second user includes “borrower second user RU2.” In addition, information including “repayment history” as the history of circulation of the second value is generated as transaction information B1, and is recorded and managed in blockchain B.

[0042] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a specific example of a transaction that can be realized in the service of FIG. 1 provided by the management server having the functional configuration of FIG. 4, and is a diagram showing an example different from that of FIG. In the example of Figure 6, a first user RU1 existing in the real space or the virtual space has a "picture of a mountain" existing in the virtual space or the real space as a first value, and a second user RU2 existing in the real space or the virtual space rents it on the condition that the rental fee is 10 bot per month. In other words, the second value for the second user RU2 is a monthly rental fee in virtual currency. Here, the first user RU1 or the second user RU2 becomes a real user UG when it exists in a real space, and becomes a virtual user as an avatar when it exists in a virtual space.

[0043] In this case, transaction information B2 as shown in Figure 6 is generated, recorded in the blockchain B, and managed. That is, “Rental item: painting of a mountain” is recorded as information about the first value, “Lender: first user RU1” is recorded as information about the first user, “Rental fee: 10bot / month” is recorded as information about the second value, and “Lender: second user RU2” is recorded as information about the second user. At the same time, information recording the owner and circulation history of the first value and “rental history” as the circulation history of the second value are generated as transaction information B2, and are recorded and managed in the blockchain B.

[0044] FIG. 7 shows a specific example of a transaction that can be realized in the service of FIG. 1 provided by a management server having the functional configuration of FIG. 4, and is a diagram showing an example different from those of FIGS. 5 and 6. In the example of Fig. 7, N real users UG (N is an integer value equal to or greater than 0) are associated with M virtual users UV as avatars (M is an integer value equal to or greater than 0). Here, the association between the real users UG and the virtual users UV means that the real users UG behave as the real users UG in the real space, but behave as the virtual users UV by operating the user terminal 2 in the virtual space. Furthermore, the case of N = 0 means that an AI or the like autonomously behaves as the virtual users UV in the virtual space. Specifically, in the example of Figure 7, one real user UGA is associated with one virtual user UVA. One real user UGB is associated with two virtual users UVB1 and UVB2. One real user UGC is associated with two virtual users UVC1 and UVC2. Two real users UGD and UGE are associated with one virtual user UVDE. Virtual user UVF is not associated with real user UG, and acts autonomously through AU, etc.

[0045] In the example on the far left of Figure 7, a transaction is conducted between virtual user UVA, who has a first value in virtual space, and virtual user UVB1, who has a second value in real space, to exchange the first value and the second value. In this case, information including at least information regarding the first value, information regarding virtual user UVA and real user UGA, information regarding the second value, and information regarding virtual user UVB1 and real user UGB is generated as transaction information, recorded in blockchain B, and managed.

[0046] In the second example from the left in Figure 7, a transaction is made between virtual user UVB2, who has a first value in the real space, and real user UGC, who has a second value in the virtual space, to exchange the first value and the second value. In this case, information including at least information regarding the first value, information regarding virtual user UVB2 and real user UGB, information regarding the second value, and information regarding real user UGC and virtual user UVC1 is generated as transaction information, recorded in blockchain B, and managed.

[0047] In the third example from the left in Figure 7, a transaction is conducted between virtual user UVC2, which has a first value in virtual space, and virtual user UVDE, which has a second value in virtual space, to exchange the first value and the second value. In this case, information including at least information regarding the first value, information regarding virtual user UVC2 and real user UGC, information regarding the second value, and information regarding virtual user UVDE and real users UGD, UGE is generated as transaction information, recorded in blockchain B, and managed.

[0048] In the fourth example from the left in Figure 7, i.e., the example on the far right of Figure 7, a transaction is made between virtual user UVDE, who has a first value in the real space, and virtual user UVF, who has a second value in the virtual space, to exchange the first value and the second value. In this case, information including at least information regarding the first value (including information that real users UGD, UGE own the first value in the real space), information regarding virtual user UVDE and real users UGD, UGE, information regarding the second value, and information regarding virtual user UVF (including information that it is an AI, etc. and is not associated with real user UG) is generated as transaction information, recorded in blockchain B, and managed.

[0049] Here, at least one of the first value and the second value may be a value related to an investment including a fund. Below, we will explain such specific examples using the truck fund already proposed by the applicant (see Patent No. 7,152,061 specification) and the above-mentioned rental service (see Patent Application No. 2021-063369 specification, Patent No. 7,092,949 specification, etc.).

[0050] FIG. 8 is a diagram for explaining an overview of a fund that can be realized by applying an information processing system according to one embodiment of the present invention. In the fund TF of this embodiment, the truck T is the investment target, the service provider M performs asset management, and the dividend (profit) to the investor I is sourced from the rental fee for the truck T (so-called lease fee). In the following, the fund TF of this embodiment that targets such a track T will be referred to as the "track fund F." Here, the truck fund F can be configured in both the real space (real world) and the virtual space. The investment target of the truck fund F may be a truck T as an object in the real space, or a truck T that exists as an object in the metaverse (virtual space).

[0051] As shown in FIG. 8, the parties involved in the truck fund TF include a service provider M, an investor I, a seller S, and a borrower R.

[0052] Here, the service provider M is a party that provides a service of selling the track fund TF as a product to the investor I, but in this embodiment, the service provider M also performs asset management and serves as a fund manager. The fund manager is an individual or organization that operates the track fund TF and aims to manage and increase the assets entrusted to it by investor I. Note that the "individual or organization" referred to here can refer to an "individual or organization" in the real world, or an "individual or organization" in virtual space. The individuals in virtual space are assumed to be virtual users of avatars.

[0053] Investor I is an individual or corporation that invests its current assets in the track fund TF with the main objective of increasing its assets in the future, and includes, for example, individual investors and institutional investors. Note that the "individual or organization" referred to here may be an "individual or organization" in the real world, or an "individual or organization" in the virtual world. The individual in the virtual world is assumed to be an avatar virtual user.

[0054] The seller S is the person who sells truck T and receives payment based on a sales contract with a truck fund TF (or an asset management service provider M). Here, the truck T does not necessarily have to be new (having no previous owner) and may be a used truck. As described above, the truck T existing in the virtual space is configured as an object in the virtual space. In addition, the source of funds (purchase cost) used by truck fund TF (or asset management service provider M) to purchase truck T from seller S is the assets contributed by investor I (which mainly become the primary value).

[0055] The lessee R is a person who leases one or more trucks T that are the subject of the truck fund TF (or a service provider M that performs asset management) based on a lease agreement with the truck fund TF (or a service provider M that performs asset management). Note that the "individual or organization" referred to here may be an "individual or organization" in the real space (actual world) or an "individual or organization" in the virtual space. The individual in the virtual space is assumed to be an avatar virtual user. The lessee R pays the truck T rental fee in a lump sum or for each specified unit time (e.g., monthly) to the truck fund TF (or the asset management service provider M). As described above, this rental fee is used as the source of dividends (profits, which are mainly the secondary value) to the investor I.

[0056] That is, in this embodiment, the cost of purchasing t trucks T (t is an integer value of 1 or more) as investment targets is covered by investment from the investor I. Here, the t trucks T may be a mixture of trucks T in the real space (real world) and trucks T in the virtual space. A truck fund TF (or an asset management service provider M) purchases t trucks T from a seller S and enters into a sales contract. The details of the sales contract are recorded and managed in the blockchain B as part of the transaction information. As a result, the owner of the t trucks T becomes the truck fund TF. The service provider M then enters into a lease agreement and an asset management agreement with the truck fund TF. The contents of the lease agreement and the asset management agreement are recorded and managed in the blockchain B as part of the transaction information. Here, the asset management agreement refers to a contract that stipulates that the service provider M will manage the truck T on behalf of the fund, which is the owner of the truck T. Based on the asset management contract, the track fund TF pays the management fee to the service provider M. The history of such management fee payment is also recorded and managed in the blockchain B as part of the transaction information. In this embodiment, the service provider M rents t trucks T from the fund, and further leases the t trucks T to the lessee R by concluding a lease agreement with the lessor. The contents of the lease agreement concluded with the lessor are recorded and managed in the blockchain B as part of the transaction information. The first rental fee (so-called lease fee) for the t units of trucks T from lessor R to service provider M is paid from lessor R to service provider M. The second rental fee for the t units of trucks T from service provider M to truck fund TF is paid from service provider M to truck fund TF. Here, if the first rent is higher than the second rent, the service provider M can make a profit. In addition, the rental cost of the truck fund TF in the calculation (including simulation) for establishing the truck fund TF as a product means the second rent. In addition, the history of such payment of the first rent and second rent is also recorded and managed in blockchain B as part of the transaction information. In addition, after a certain number of years predefined in the truck fund TF has passed, the truck T may be sold by the truck fund TF. The buyer is not particularly limited, and may be the service provider M or a third party not shown. The selling cost of such a truck T is also recorded and managed in the blockchain B as part of the transaction information. As a result, the truck fund TF can earn profits from the second rental fee based on the lease agreement with the service provider M for the t trucks T, and the sales fee based on the sale of the t trucks T after a certain number of years have passed. The history of this profit is also recorded and managed in the blockchain B as part of the transaction information. Using this income, Truck Fund TF can provide stable dividends to Investor I. The history of the dividends (mainly the secondary value) paid to Investor I is also recorded and managed in Blockchain B as part of the transaction information. In addition, the service provider M can earn revenue based on the second rent (>first rent) based on the rental contract with the tenant R. This revenue is also recorded and managed in the blockchain B as part of the transaction information.

[0057] Here, as the truck T that is the target of the truck fund TF, a new truck in the real world (one that has never had an owner in the past) may be used, but it is preferable to use a used truck in the real world. This is for the following reason. First, as a premise, at least in Japan, from a tax perspective, when purchasing a real-world (real world) truck T, regardless of whether it is new or used, it is not permitted to immediately expense the entire amount spent on its acquisition. This is because a real-world (real world) truck T is used over several years, and it is necessary to expense it as a depreciation expense according to the period of use of the truck T. The period of use is called the "useful life." In this case, Investor I can record the depreciation of the real-world truck T that is the subject of Truck Fund TF as an expense in his / her own accounting for the period until the useful life expires. That is, Investor I can enjoy tax benefits by purchasing Truck Fund TF products. In addition, each time depreciation is recorded, it is recorded and managed in Blockchain B as part of the transaction information. The benefits of depreciation in terms of taxation and other aspects are particularly great for used goods compared to new goods. This is because it is generally believed that used goods cannot be used for as long as new goods, and so their useful life is shorter than that of new goods. In other words, used goods have the advantage that they can be expensed (depreciated) in a shorter period of time in accounting terms than new goods. For this reason, used goods are an investment target for Investor I that offers excellent investment yields and has a stable supply-demand balance and trading prices.

[0058] Here, if the truck T that is the target of the truck fund TF is an object in a virtual space (metaverse), its handling will differ depending on the rules of the metaverse and laws and regulations that will be applied in the future, but within the permissible range, it is possible to set a useful life and depreciation expenses in imitation of the real space (real world), or to adopt other methods. Details of this point will be described later with reference to Figures 17A to 17D.

[0059] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an outline of the configuration of an information processing system applied to the track fund of FIG. 8, that is, an information processing system according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0060] The information processing system shown in Figure 9 is configured by connecting a management server 1 operated by a service provider M, investor terminals 2-I1 to 2-In operated by investors I-1 to In (n is any integer value equal to or greater than 1), seller terminals 2-S1 to 2-Sm operated by sellers S-1 to Sm (m is any integer value equal to or greater than 1), and borrower terminals 2-R1 to 2-Rp operated by borrowers R-1 to Rp (p is any integer value equal to or greater than 1) to each other via a predetermined network N such as the Internet.

[0061] Here, the terminals of investors I-1 to In, sellers S-1 to Sm, and lessees R-1 to Rp all contain the symbol "2" because investors I-1 to In, sellers S-1 to Sm, and lessees R-1 to Rp are users of the service in Figure 1, and therefore their respective terminals correspond to the user terminals in Figure 2.

[0062] The track fund has been described above as a specific example in which at least one of the first value and the second value can be a fund or an investment target, or a return on the fund or investment target. Next, as another specific example, a rental service will be described.

[0063] FIG. 10 is an image diagram showing the basic flow of a rental service that can be realized by applying an information processing system according to one embodiment of the present invention. In addition, in Fig. 10 and Fig. 11 described later, one lender user UL and one borrower user UB are shown, but this is a simplification to easily explain the flow of this service. In reality, there may be multiple lender users UL and multiple borrower users UB in this service. In addition, the lender user UL and the borrower user UB are individuals or organizations. The "individual or organization" referred to here may be an "individual or organization" in the real space (real world) or an "individual or organization" in the virtual space. The individual in the virtual space is assumed to be an avatar virtual user.

[0064] In step SS1, the lender user UL operates the user terminal 2 (referred to as the "lender terminal 2" in the explanations of Figs. 10 to 12) to register as a user for the rental service in order to receive the rental service. The contents of the user registration are recorded and managed in the blockchain B.

[0065] In step SS2, the lender user UL operates the user terminal 2 (referred to as the "lender terminal 2" in the explanations of Figs. 10 to 12) to register information about the item he / she wishes to lend (hereinafter referred to as the "listing information") in this service. The registered listing information is recorded and managed in the blockchain B. When the listing information is registered, the item is treated as an "item" that has been "listed" on this service, and the lessor user UL who listed the item is treated as the "seller." Here, a "thing" refers to an article or the like in the case of real space (the real world), but refers to electronic information material such as an object in the case of the virtual world. In addition, the content of the listing information registered in the rental service is not particularly limited, and any information related to the item can be registered as the listing information. Specifically, for example, the listing information can include text information about the name, type, properties, size, weight, purchase price, desired rental fee, rental period, and whether or not the item can be sold, and image information based on a captured image of the item. Here, the captured image of the item also includes a captured image of the item, which is an object in a virtual space, captured by a camera (from a specified viewpoint) in the virtual space. In addition, there are no particular limitations on the items that can be put up for sale in the rental service, so long as they are eligible for rental. Specifically, for example, "things" in the real world, such as camping equipment such as clothes and tents, golf clubs and fishing equipment, suitcases, game consoles, tablets and computers, office equipment, watches, land, space, houses, furniture and fixtures, cars and motorcycles, books, CDs and records, cameras, shoes, accessories, bags, special tools, and childcare items such as strollers, are all items that can be rented. For example, when it comes to "things" in the virtual space, in addition to objects in the virtual space (metaverse) that correspond to the examples of items in the real world mentioned above, NFTs can also be rented.

[0066] In step SS3, in order to receive the rental service, the lessee user UB performs user registration for the rental service by operating the lessee terminal 2. The contents of the user registration are recorded and managed in the blockchain B. Here, the lender user UL who is registered in step SS1 and the borrower user UB who is registered in step SS3 are both registered as users who receive rental services without any particular differentiation. Therefore, the lender user UL can receive rental services as the borrower user UB, and the borrower user UB can receive rental services as the lender user UL. In other words, when a user registers for the rental service, he or she can participate as a user who lends out objects in both real space (the real world) and virtual space, and can also participate as a user who borrows objects in both real space (the real world) and virtual space.

[0067] In step SS4, if the borrower user UB wishes to borrow any of the items offered for rental service, the borrower user UB applies for the borrowing of the item (hereinafter referred to as a "borrowing application"). The borrower user UB also applies for insurance if necessary. In this service, the borrower user UB who applies to borrow an item is also referred to as the "borrowing applicant." One or more items for sale are displayed together with the item information on the borrower terminal 2. If the borrower user UB wishes to borrow an item among the one or more items displayed on the borrower terminal 2, the borrower user UB operates the borrower terminal 2 to make a borrowing application for the item.

[0068] When the borrower user UB applies for a loan and ends up borrowing the item, the borrower user UB makes a payment for the desired rental fee included in the listing information. The history of this payment is recorded and managed as transaction information in the blockchain B. In addition, the details of the insurance applied for, if necessary, are also recorded and managed in the blockchain B.

[0069] In step SS5, the lender user UL sends the item to the borrower user UB who has applied for the loan. Sending here means sending the actual item by mail if the item is an object in the real world, and means sending electronic data of the object (and permission to use the electronic data, if necessary) if the item is an object in the virtual world. The borrower user UB who receives the item compares the sent item with the captured image of the item included in the item information, and if there are no problems, begins using the item. Specifically, for example, when an item in real space (the real world) is sent to the borrower user UB, the borrower user UB who receives the item visually compares the captured image of the item included in the listing information provided by the lender user UL with the actual item. Specifically, for example, when an item in the virtual space is sent to the borrower user UB, the borrower user UB who receives the item performs a comparison using the borrower user terminal 2. The comparison here may be a visual confirmation (visual inspection) of the screen of the borrower user terminal 2 by the lender user B, or may be a process performed by the borrower user terminal 2. If the comparison by the lessee user UB shows that there is no difference between the captured image and the actual item, or if the difference is within a range that can be overlooked, the lessee user UB operates the lessee terminal 2 to transmit information indicating that the rental will begin as is to the management server 1. Specifically, for example, although not shown, the lessee user UB presses an "Approve" button or a "Start Rental" button displayed on the lessee terminal 2 to transmit information indicating that the rental will begin to the management server 1. The management server 1 then receives this information and accepts that the lessee user UB has approved the start of the rental. Such information regarding the start of the rental is also recorded and managed in the blockchain B as transaction information. On the other hand, if a comparison of the sent item with the captured image reveals any significant differences, the borrower user UB (borrowing applicant) will not use the item (i.e. will not start using it). In this case, the borrower user UB (borrowing applicant) will return the item to the sender without, for example, pressing the "Approve" button or the "Start Rental" button displayed on the borrower terminal 2. Such return information is also recorded and managed in the blockchain B as transaction information. Also, for example, in a system environment that allows refunds after the completion of the payment process, the borrower user UB (borrowing applicant) can negotiate with the seller via the rental service and start the rental by receiving a partial refund of the rental fee, or cancel the rental with a full refund. Such negotiations may be conducted directly using a communication tool between users provided by this service, or indirectly via the rental service provider M. The results of such negotiations are also recorded and managed in the blockchain B as transaction information.

[0070] In step SS6, the borrower user UB returns the item to the seller of the item by the expiration date of the rental period. When the item is returned, the lender user UL compares the returned item with the captured image of the item included in the listing information, and if there are no problems, the rental service is completed. This completion information is also recorded and managed in the blockchain B as transaction information. Here, if a significant difference is found as a result of comparing the returned item with the captured image, the lessor user UL, who is the seller, can negotiate with the lessee user UB via the rental service and take measures such as the following. That is, the lessor user UL can request an additional fee on top of the rental fee that has already been settled, or can have the item purchased. Such negotiations may be conducted directly using a communication tool between users provided by the rental service, or indirectly via the rental service provider M. The results of such negotiations are also recorded and managed in the blockchain B as transaction information.

[0071] FIG. 11 is an image diagram showing the flow of the fee paid by a renter user in a rental service.

[0072] In step SS21, the lessee user UB makes payment for the rental fee. Specifically, the lessee user UB operates the lessee terminal 2 to request payment processing for the rental fee to the payment service provider P. In addition, if the lessee user UB is paying insurance fees or shipping fees, the lessee user UB requests payment processing for the rental fee, insurance fees, and shipping fees (hereinafter referred to as "rental fees, etc.") to the payment service provider P. The payment history of the rental fees, etc. is recorded and managed as transaction information in the blockchain B.

[0073] The payment service provider P, which has processed the payment of the rental fee etc. based on the request from the lessee user UB, remits in step SS22 the amount obtained by deducting a prescribed fee from the payment amount (hereinafter referred to as the "sales amount") to the service provider M. The remittance history is recorded and managed in the blockchain B as transaction information. In step SS23, the rental service provider M pools the remitted sales amount. The history of the pooling of the sales amount is recorded and managed in the blockchain B as transaction information.

[0074] In step SS24, the lessor user UL, who is the seller, withdraws cash within the amount remaining after deducting the rental service usage fee from the sales amount pooled in the rental service provider M. Specifically, the lessor user UL, who is the seller, operates the lessor terminal 2 to make a request to withdraw cash within the amount remaining after deducting the rental service usage fee from the sales amount (hereinafter referred to as a "withdrawal request").

[0075] In step SS25, the rental service provider M performs a cash deposit process based on the contents of the withdrawal request from the lender user UL. Specifically, the rental service provider M performs a deposit process via a payment service based on the contents of the withdrawal request from the lender user UL. It is also possible to deposit money directly from the rental service provider M's account without performing a deposit process via a payment service. In any case, the deposit history is recorded and managed in the blockchain B as transaction information.

[0076] FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of a case where a loan application is made via a GUI (Graphical User Interface) displayed on the lender terminal and the borrower terminal.

[0077] Of the screens displayed on the lender terminal 2 and the lessee terminal 2, the screen shown in FIG. 2 is configured to include display areas H1 to H5.

[0078] In the display area H1, buttons are displayed that are pressed when a user of the rental service puts up an item for sale as a lessor user UL. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 12, a button B11 displaying "New listing" and a button B12 displaying "Rental" are displayed. Here, when the button B11 labeled "New listing" is pressed, the screen transitions to a screen (not shown) for listing a new item. In addition, when the button B12 displaying "Rented" is pressed, a list of items currently being lent by the user of the rental service as the lender user UL is displayed. Specifically, for example, pressing the button B12 displaying "Rented" may transition to a screen (not shown) of My Page, where a list of items currently being lent may be displayed.

[0079] In the display area H2, buttons are displayed that a user of the rental service, acting as a borrower user UB, presses when borrowing an item for sale. Specifically, as shown in Fig. 12, a button labeled "Watch List," a button labeled "Search by Category," and various buttons indicating categories, such as a button B21 labeled "Fashion," a button labeled "Seasonal Events," and a button labeled "Books, Comics, Magazines," are displayed.

[0080] In the display area H3, notices and advertisements for the user are displayed. In the example shown in Fig. 12, a notice saying "Men's jacket campaign running from September 1st!!" is displayed. The notices and advertisements displayed in the display area H3 can also be pressed as buttons. In this case, when the notice shown in Fig. 12 is pressed, a dedicated screen (not shown) showing the specific contents of the notice may be displayed.

[0081] In the display area H4, three men's jacket images are displayed as "seasonal event recommended items" among the items listed by the lender users UL1 to ULn, along with the listing information. Note that "items" here refer to the items listed by the lender users UL.

[0082] In the display area H5, three handbag images and three wristwatch images are displayed as "recommended items" among the items listed by the lender users UL1 to ULn, along with the listing information. The borrower user UB can easily find the desired item by looking at the contents displayed in the display areas H2 to H3.

[0083] Among the items displayed in the display areas H4 and H5, there are some marked with a "Buy it Now" mark M41 or an "Owner Change" mark M51.

[0084] An item marked with the "Buy it Now" mark M41 means that the listing information includes an intention to sell. In other words, it means that the lessor user UL is willing to "hand it over as is" after a specified rental period has elapsed. Specifically, for example, if an item worth 10,000 yen is rented out for 100 yen per day, the total amount of rental fees earned will reach 10,000 yen when the rental period reaches 100 days. In this case, the item will be handed over as is, as it has "recovered its investment." For this reason, the listing information for the item displayed in the display areas H4 and H5 of FIG. 12 respectively displays the buy-out amount in addition to the rental fee per day.

[0085] Moreover, an item marked with the "owner change" mark M51 is an item for which the right to receive rental fees can be transferred along with the ownership without changing the rental status. In other words, it means that the ownership can be transferred to the rental service provider M or the lessee user UB while retaining the right to receive rental fees. Here, even if an ownership change occurs, the transaction information is recorded and managed in blockchain B.

[0086] Next, with reference to FIGS. 13 to 26, a specific example of a transaction related to an investment that can be realized in the present service of FIG. 1 provided by the management server 1 having the functional configuration of FIG. 4 will be described. In the following examples, the investment targets will mainly be explained as Truck Fund TF and Rental Service LS, but they are not limited to these, and the following explanation applies equally to other real estate, stocks (including those in virtual space), etc.

[0087] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a specific example of the first stage of a first transaction regarding an investment that can be realized in the present service of FIG. 1 provided by a management server having the functional configuration of FIG. In the example of FIG. 13, it is assumed that an investor IG, who is a user in the real space (real world), invests in the above-mentioned truck fund TF and rental service LS. For the sake of convenience, investing one's own funds in Truck Fund TF will be referred to simply as "first value investment." Also, receiving dividends from Truck Fund TF will be referred to as "second value profits and losses." There are two types of investments in the rental service LS. The first type is an investment in which an investor IG earns profits from leasing fees or outright purchases by listing items as a lessor user UL. The second type is an investment in which an investor IG invests in a platform called the rental service LS and receives some kind of return from the rental service provider M. However, for the sake of convenience, in the following explanation, these types will not be mentioned specifically, and the provision of one's own funds or items to be listed to the rental service will simply be called the "investment of the first value," and the return from the rental service provider M on that investment or the receipt of sales based on rental fees, etc. from the lessee user UB will be called the "profit or loss of the second value."

[0088] In step SL1 of FIG. 13, an investor IG in the real space (real world) makes an investment of a first value in a rental service LS in the real space (real world) and obtains a profit / loss of a second value from the rental service LS in response to the investment. In this case, the information exchanged regarding the investment of the first value and the profit / loss of the second value is generated as transaction information and recorded and managed in blockchain B.

[0089] In step ST1 of FIG. 13, an investor IG in the real space (real world) makes an investment of a first value in a truck fund TF in the real space (real world) and obtains a profit / loss of a second value from the truck fund TF in response to the investment. In this case, the information exchanged regarding the investment of the first value and the profit / loss of the second value is generated as transaction information and recorded and managed in blockchain B.

[0090] FIG. 14 is a diagram showing a specific example of the second stage of a first transaction regarding an investment that can be realized in the present service of FIG. 1 provided by a management server having the functional configuration of FIG. FIG. 15 is a diagram showing a specific example of the third stage of the first transaction regarding investment that can be realized in the present service of FIG. 1 provided by the management server having the functional configuration of FIG. In the example of Figure 15, it is assumed that an investor IM as a user in a virtual space (metaverse) invests in a virtual investment object MT in which an investor IG as a user in a real space (real world) invested in the example of Figure 14. Here, as described above in FIG. 7, investors IM in the virtual space (metaverse) do not necessarily correspond one-to-one with users in the real space (real world), and may be something like a collective investment scheme (fund). In step SM2 of FIG. 15, an investor IM in the virtual space (metaverse) invests a first value in a virtual investment object MT in the virtual space (metaverse) and obtains a second value of profit / loss from the virtual investment object MT. In this transaction in step SM2, if necessary, the transaction history of step SM1 recorded and managed in blockchain B is also used. Here, the second value is not particularly limited, and can be any value that can be used within the virtual space (metaverse) (for example, a game item in the metaverse), as well as legal tender and virtual assets. The information exchanged in the investment of the first value and the profit and loss of the second value in step SM2 is generated as transaction information, and is recorded and managed in blockchain B.

[0091] FIG. 16 is a diagram showing a specific example of the fourth stage of a first transaction regarding an investment that can be realized in the present service of FIG. 1 provided by a management server having the functional configuration of FIG. In the example of FIG. 16, it is assumed that an investor IM as a user of the virtual space (metaverse) who invested in the virtual investment object MT in the example of FIG. 15 invests in an investment object in the real space (real world). In step SM3 of FIG. 16, an investor IM in the virtual space (metaverse) invests a first value in an investment target (rental service LS, truck fund TF, and other investment targets GT) in the real space (real world) and obtains a second value of profit or loss from the investment. The information exchanged in the investment of the first value and the profit and loss of the second value in step SM3 is generated as transaction information, and is recorded and managed in blockchain B. In this transaction in step SM3, the transaction history of investor IM, which is recorded and managed in blockchain B, is also used, if necessary.

[0092] Here, with reference to FIG. 17, a specific example of the handling of assets in the virtual investment object MT in the virtual space (metaverse) will be described. Assets in a virtual investment target MT in a virtual space (metaverse) are, for example, a truck T (object) for a truck fund TF in the virtual space, and items (objects) offered for sale in a rental service LS in the virtual space.

[0093] FIG. 17 shows a specific example of asset handling in a virtual investment target in a virtual space. Figure 17A shows a specific example of handling assets (assets configured in the metaverse in this way) that do not deteriorate in the virtual space and whose value changes only with market prices, such as land in the real world. Figure 17B shows a specific example of how to handle assets that depreciate in the virtual world (for example, assets that become obsolete, etc.) (assets that are set in the metaverse as such). In the specific example of Figure 17B, the concept of depreciation in the real world is applied to the depreciation. FIG. 17C shows a specific example of handling an asset that was originally assigned a lifetime in the virtual world and that no longer technically exists after the lifetime has elapsed (an asset that has been so assigned in the metaverse). Figure 17D shows a specific example of how to handle assets that do not depreciate or have leases in the virtual world (assets that are configured as such in the metaverse).

[0094] FIG. 18 is a diagram showing a specific example of the first stage of a second transaction regarding an investment that can be realized in the present service of FIG. 1 provided by a management server having the functional configuration of FIG. In the example of FIG. 18, it is assumed that an investor IG1 as a user in the real space (real world) invests in an investment target GT in the real space (real world), such as the above-mentioned truck fund TF or rental service LS. In the following explanation of the second transaction, for the sake of convenience, "investment" refers to a transaction consisting of an "investment of the first value" and "profits and losses of the second value."

[0095] In step SG1 of FIG. 18, an investor IG1 in the real space (real world) invests in an investment target GT in the real space (real world). In this case, the information exchanged in the investment (investment of the first value and profit / loss of the second value) is generated as transaction information and recorded and managed in blockchain B.

[0096] In step SG2 of FIG. 18, investor IG1 in the real space (real world) makes an owner change of investment target GT in the real space (real world) to investor IG2 in the real space (real world). An owner change is a type of transaction. Therefore, when an owner change is made, the investment history of the investment target GT in the space (real world) in step SG1 is appropriately obtained from the blockchain B and used. In addition, the history of ownership changes will be recorded and managed on blockchain B.

[0097] FIG. 19 is a diagram showing a specific example of the second stage of a second transaction regarding an investment that can be realized in the present service of FIG. 1 provided by the management server having the functional configuration of FIG. In the example of Figure 19, as in the example of Figure 18, an investor IG1 as a user in the real space (real world) is assumed to invest in an investment target GT in the real space (real world), such as the above-mentioned truck fund TF or rental service LS.

[0098] In step SM11 of FIG. 19, investor IG1 in the real space (real world) makes an ownership change of investment target GT in the real space (real world) to investor IM1 in the virtual space (metaverse). An owner change is a type of transaction. Therefore, when an owner change is made, the investment history of the investment target GT in the space (real world) in step SG1 is appropriately obtained from the blockchain B and used. In addition, the history of ownership changes will be recorded and managed on blockchain B.

[0099] FIG. 20 is a diagram showing a specific example of the third stage of the second transaction regarding investment that can be realized in the present service of FIG. 1 provided by the management server having the functional configuration of FIG. In the example of FIG. 20, it is assumed that an investor IM1 as a user of the virtual space (metaverse) invests in a virtual investment object MT in the virtual space.

[0100] In step SM12 of FIG. 20, an investor IM1 in the virtual space (metaverse) invests in a virtual investment object MT in the virtual space (metaverse). In this case, the information exchanged in the investment (investment of the first value and profit / loss of the second value) is generated as transaction information and recorded and managed in blockchain B.

[0101] In step SM13 of FIG. 20, investor IM1 in the virtual space (metaverse) makes an owner change of the virtual investment object MT in the virtual space (metaverse) to investor IM2 in the virtual space (metaverse). An owner change is a type of transaction. Therefore, when an owner change is made, the investment history of the virtual investment target MT in the virtual space (metaverse) in step SM13 is appropriately obtained from the blockchain B and used. In addition, the history of ownership changes will be recorded and managed on blockchain B.

[0102] FIG. 21 is a diagram showing a specific example of the fourth stage of the second transaction regarding investment that can be realized in the present service of FIG. 1 provided by the management server having the functional configuration of FIG. In the example of FIG. 21, it is assumed that an investor IM1 as a user of a virtual space (metaverse) changes the owner of a virtual investment object MT in the virtual space to an investor IG2 as a user of a real space (real world).

[0103] In step SM14 of FIG. 21, investor IM1 in the virtual space (metaverse) makes an owner change of the virtual investment object MT in the virtual space (metaverse) to investor IG2 in the real space (real world). An owner change is a type of transaction. Therefore, when an owner change is made, the investment history of the virtual investment target MT in the virtual space (metaverse) in step SM13 is appropriately obtained from the blockchain B and used. In addition, the history of ownership changes will be recorded and managed on blockchain B.

[0104] Note that the above transactions related to fund investments are merely examples, and there are a variety of cases as shown in Figure 22. FIG. 22 shows examples of investments that can be realized in the service of FIG. 1 provided by the management server having the functional configuration of FIG. In the table of FIG. 22 and the explanation of the same figure, "reality" means "real space (real world)" and "meta" means "virtual space (metaverse)." The first case is that (investment target, investor, fund) = (reality, reality, reality). The second case is that (investment target, investor, fund) = (meta, reality, actuality). The third case is that (investment target, investor, fund) = (meta, meta, meta). The fourth case is that (investment target, investor, fund) = (reality, meta, meta). The fifth case is that (investment target, investor, fund) = (reality, actuality, meta). The sixth case is that (investment target, investor, fund) = (reality, meta, reality). The seventh case is that (investment target, investor, fund) = (meta, meta, reality). The eighth case is (investment target, investor, fund) = (meta, reality, meta).

[0105] Figure 23 shows an example of a fund in the real world. A fund consists of assets and (liabilities) capital contributions. In the example of Figure 23, asset manager AMG in the real world manages the fund. In the example of FIG. 23, the assets of the fund are invested in investment targets GT1 and GT2 in the real space (real world). In the example of FIG. 23, investors IG1 and IG2 in the real space (real world) make investments in a fund, and another user UG1 such as a bank or another lender in the real space (real world) makes a loan to the fund.

[0106] FIG. 24 is a diagram showing a specific example of a second pattern of fund investment that can be realized in the present service of FIG. 1 provided by the management server having the functional configuration of FIG. Figure 24 shows an example of a fund in the real world. A fund consists of assets and (liabilities) capital contributions. In the example of Figure 24, asset manager AMG in the real world manages the fund. In the example of FIG. 24, investments are made from the assets of a fund into investment targets GM1 and GM2 in a virtual space (metaverse). In the example of FIG. 24, investors IG1 and IG2 in the real space (real world) make investments in a fund, and another user UG1 such as a bank or another lender in the real space (real world) makes a loan to the fund.

[0107] FIG. 25 is a diagram showing a specific example of a third pattern regarding fund investment that can be realized in the present service of FIG. 1 provided by the management server having the functional configuration of FIG. Figure 25 shows an example of a fund in the virtual space (metaverse). The fund consists of assets and (liabilities) capital contributions. In the example of Figure 25, an asset manager (AMM) in the virtual space (metaverse) manages and operates the fund. In the example of FIG. 25, investments are made from the assets of a fund into investment targets GM1 and GM2 in a virtual space (metaverse). In the example of FIG. 25, investors IM1 and IM2 in the virtual space (metaverse) make investments in a fund, and other users UM1 such as banks and other lenders in the virtual space (metaverse) make loans to the fund.

[0108] FIG. 26 is a diagram showing a specific example of a fourth pattern regarding fund investment that can be realized in the present service of FIG. 1 provided by the management server having the functional configuration of FIG. Figure 26 shows an example of a fund in the virtual space (metaverse). The fund consists of assets and (liabilities) capital contributions. In the example of Figure 26, an asset manager (AMM) in the virtual space (metaverse) manages and operates the fund. In the example of FIG. 26, investments are made from the assets of a fund into investment targets GM1 and GM2 in the real space (real world). In the example of FIG. 25, investors IM1 and IM2 in the virtual space (metaverse) make investments in a fund, and other users UM1 such as banks and other lenders in the virtual space (metaverse) make loans to the fund.

[0109] Although one embodiment of the present invention has been described above, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and modifications, improvements, etc. within the scope that can achieve the object of the present invention are included in the present invention.

[0110] For example, in the above-described embodiment, the transaction forms possible with this service have been described using the examples of FIGS. 5 to 7 and 13 to 26, but the transaction forms are not particularly limited to these. For example, a transaction can be adopted in which a first value existing in a first virtual space is exchanged for a second value existing in a different second virtual space. In other words, a transaction is sufficient as long as it is a transaction for exchanging a first value and a second value between a first user existing in a real space or virtual space who has a first value in the real space or virtual space, and a second user existing in a real space or virtual space who has a second value in the real space or virtual space, and at least some of the first value, the first user, the second value, and the second user are from the virtual space, and various forms of transactions can be adopted.

[0111] For example, in the above embodiment, the blockchain B is used to manage the validity of transaction information, but a distributed ledger may also be used instead.

[0112] Furthermore, it is sufficient that the subject of the transaction has value to the first and second users conducting the transaction; it is irrelevant whether or not it has value to anyone else. For example, it may be something like the skills and rights of a real user UG or a virtual user UV.

[0113] Furthermore, the hardware configuration shown in FIG. 3 is merely an example for achieving the object of the present invention, and is not particularly limited.

[0114] In addition, the functional block diagram shown in Fig. 4 is merely an example and is not particularly limited. In other words, it is sufficient that the information processing system is provided with a function capable of executing the above-mentioned series of processes as a whole, and the type of functional block used to realize this function is not particularly limited to the example in Fig. 4.

[0115] Furthermore, the locations of the functional blocks are not limited to those shown in FIG. Furthermore, one functional block may be configured as a single piece of hardware, a single piece of software, or a combination of both.

[0116] When the processing of each functional block is executed by software, the program constituting the software is installed into a computer or the like from a network or a recording medium. The computer may be a computer built into dedicated hardware, or may be a computer capable of executing various functions by installing various programs, such as a server, a general-purpose smartphone, or a personal computer.

[0117] A recording medium containing such a program is not only composed of removable media that is distributed separately from the device body in order to provide each user with the program, but also composed of a recording medium that is provided to each user in a state in which it is pre-installed in the device body.

[0118] In this specification, the steps of describing a program to be recorded on a recording medium include not only processes that are performed chronologically according to the order, but also processes that are not necessarily performed chronologically but are executed in parallel or individually.

[0119] In addition, in this specification, the term "system" refers to an overall device that is composed of a plurality of devices, a plurality of means, etc.

[0120] In summary, the information processing apparatus to which the present invention is applied is sufficient if it has the following configuration, and can take various different embodiments. That is, an information processing device to which the present invention is applied (for example, a management server 1, etc.) a management unit (e.g., transaction information management unit 58 in FIG. 4 ) for recording and managing information on the first value, information on the first user, information on the second value, and information on the second user as transaction information (e.g., transaction information B1 in FIG. 5 or transaction information B2 in FIG. 6 ) in a blockchain (e.g., blockchain B in FIG. 4 ) or a distributed ledger when a first transaction is made between a first user (e.g., first user RU1 in FIG. 5 or FIG. 6 ) existing in the real space or virtual space who has a first value in the real space or virtual space (e.g., virtual currency 100bot in FIG. 5 or a picture of a mountain in FIG. 6 ) and a second user (e.g., second user RU2 in FIG. 5 or FIG. 6 ) existing in the real space or virtual space who has a second value in the real space or virtual space (e.g., repayment fee and interest in virtual currency in FIG. 5 or rental fee in FIG. 6 ), in order to exchange the first value and the second value; a transaction control means (e.g., a transaction control unit 57 in FIG. 4) that controls a second transaction related to at least a part of the first value, the first user, the second value, and the second user, by using the transaction information recorded and managed in the blockchain or the distributed ledger by the management means; Equipped with.

[0121] In this way, in transactions that involve real space and virtual space, the transaction information of the first transaction is recorded and managed in blockchain B or the distributed ledger, and the transaction information in blockchain B or the distributed ledger can be used to determine whether or not a second transaction can be carried out, making it possible to safely trade value while ensuring the credibility of the transactors in the second transaction.

[0122] Here, the first transaction may be a transaction in which at least some of the first value, the first user, the second value, and the second user are from a virtual space.

[0123] The management means may further include a distribution history of at least one of the first value and the second value in the transaction information, and record and manage the transaction information in the blockchain or the distributed ledger.

[0124] The management means may further include a history of an owner of at least one of the first value and the second value in the transaction information, and record and manage the transaction information in the blockchain or the distributed ledger. [Explanation of symbols]

[0125] 1: Management server, 2, 2-1 to 2-n, 2A, 2B: User terminal, 3, 3-1 to 3-m: Virtual space server, 11: CPU, 12; ROM, 13: RAM, 14: Bus, 15: Input / output interface, 16: Input unit, 17: Output unit, 18: Storage unit, 19: Communication unit, 20: Drive, 30: Removable media, 51: Real space information acquisition unit, 52: Real user information acquisition unit, 53: Real value information acquisition unit, 54: Virtual space information acquisition unit, 55: Avatar information acquisition unit, 56: Virtual value information acquisition unit, 57: Transaction control unit, 58: Transaction information management unit, B: Blockchain

Claims

1. A management means for recording and managing, as transaction information, information relating to the first value, information relating to the first user, information relating to the second value, and information relating to the second user, when a first transaction is made to exchange the first value and the second value when the object is lent to the second user, between a first user existing in the real space or virtual space who is the owner of the object having a first value in the real space or virtual space, and a second user existing in the real space or virtual space who has a second value in the real space or virtual space, on a blockchain or distributed ledger, When a second transaction is made to transfer ownership and revenue-receiving rights of the subject to a third party during the continuation of a loan under the first transaction relating to at least some of the first value, the first user, the second value, and the second user, a transaction control means controls the second transaction using the transaction information recorded and managed by the management means in the blockchain or the distributed ledger, An information processing device equipped with the following features.

2. The first transaction is a transaction in which at least a portion of the first value, the first user, the second value, and the second user are located in a virtual space. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.

3. Of the first user and the second user, one is a virtual user existing in a virtual space, and the other is a real user corresponding to the said virtual user. The management means further includes information relating to the correspondence between the virtual user and the real user in the transaction information and records and manages it in the blockchain or the distributed ledger. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.

4. At least one of the first value or the second value is a value relating to an investment in a fund or the return from said fund, based on a combination in which the investment target, investor, and fund each belong to either the real space or the virtual space. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.

5. The management means further includes the transaction history of at least one of the first value and the second value in the transaction information and records and manages it in the blockchain or the distributed ledger. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.

6. The management means further includes the history of the owner of at least one of the first value and the second value in the transaction information and records and manages it in the blockchain or the distributed ledger. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.

7. In an information processing method executed by an information processing device, A management step in which, when a first transaction is made to exchange the first value and the second value when a first user existing in the real or virtual space, who is the owner of an object in the virtual space that has a first value in the real or virtual space, lends the said object to the second user, information regarding the first value, information regarding the first user, information regarding the second value, and information regarding the second user are recorded and managed as transaction information on a blockchain or distributed ledger, When a second transaction is made to transfer ownership and revenue-receiving rights of the subject to a third party during the continuation of a loan under the first transaction relating to at least some of the first value, the first user, the second value, and the second user, a transaction control step controls the second transaction using the transaction information recorded and managed in the blockchain or the distributed ledger by the processing of the management step, Information processing methods including

8. On the computer, A management step in which, when a first transaction is made to exchange the first value and the second value when a first user existing in the real or virtual space, who is the owner of an object in the virtual space that has a first value in the real or virtual space, lends the said object to the second user, information regarding the first value, information regarding the first user, information regarding the second value, and information regarding the second user are recorded and managed as transaction information on a blockchain or distributed ledger, When a second transaction is made to transfer ownership and revenue-receiving rights of the subject to a third party during the continuation of a loan under the first transaction relating to at least some of the first value, the first user, the second value, and the second user, a transaction control step controls the second transaction using the transaction information recorded and managed in the blockchain or the distributed ledger by the processing of the management step, A program that executes control processes, including those mentioned above.

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