Information processing method, information processing system, and program

Abstract

To make it possible to customize a commodity object in a virtual space.SOLUTION: An information processing method to be executed by a computer includes: controlling motion of an avatar corresponding to a user in a virtual space, in accordance with user operation; causing a display unit to display a virtual store in the virtual space, the virtual store including an interface which is operated by the avatar to customize the commodity object; and modifying, when the interface is operated by the avatar, settings related to the commodity object so as to customize the commodity object in accordance with the content of the operation.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 9

Description

[Technical field]

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

[0002] Conventionally, services have been realized that allow users to communicate with other users who are operating other avatars and participate in events and games held in a virtual space created by a computer by operating an avatar according to user operations. Some of these services allow users to equip their avatars with product objects such as clothes and accessories (for example, Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2008-217142 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, since various characteristics such as size, shape, and color are preset for product objects in a virtual space, there is a problem that the product objects cannot be customized according to the user's preferences, avatar characteristics, etc.

[0005] An object of the present invention is to enable customization of product objects in a virtual space. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In order to solve the above problems, an information processing method according to the present invention comprises: 1. A computer-implemented information processing method, comprising: Controlling a movement of an avatar corresponding to a user in a virtual space in response to an operation by the user; displaying, on a display unit, a virtual store in the virtual space, the virtual store having an interface therein that is operated by the avatar to customize a product object; When the interface is operated by the avatar, a setting related to the product object is changed so that the product object is customized in accordance with the content of the operation.

[0007] In order to solve the above problems, the information processing system according to the present invention comprises: Controlling a movement of an avatar corresponding to a user in a virtual space in response to an operation by the user; displaying, on a display unit, a virtual store in the virtual space, the virtual store having an interface therein that is operated by the avatar to customize a product object; when the interface is operated by the avatar, changing a setting related to the product object so that the product object is customized in accordance with the content of the operation; A processing unit is provided.

[0008] In order to solve the above problems, the program according to the present invention comprises: On the computer, A process of controlling a movement of an avatar corresponding to a user in a virtual space in response to an operation by the user; a process of displaying, on a display unit, a virtual store in the virtual space, the virtual store having an interface therein that is operated by the avatar to customize a product object; a process of changing a setting related to the product object so that the product object is customized in accordance with the content of an operation of the interface by the avatar; Execute the command.

[0009] In order to solve the above problems, an information processing method according to the present invention comprises: An information processing method executed by a computer of a terminal device having a display unit and an input unit, displaying on the display unit a virtual store in a virtual space, the virtual store having an interface operated by an avatar to customize a product object; receiving, via the input unit, a user operation corresponding to an operation of the avatar on the interface in the virtual space; The product object is displayed on the display unit, the product object being customized according to the operation content of the avatar on the interface based on the user operation accepted via the input unit. Effect of the Invention

[0010] According to the present invention, it is possible to customize a product object in a virtual space. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of an information processing system. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of a server. [Diagram 3] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of user management data. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of the information processing device. [Diagram 5] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of the contents of object data. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the VR device. [Figure 7] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a VR screen. [Figure 8] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a customized IF. [Figure 9] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a state in which a bezel icon is selected. [Figure 10] FIG. 13 shows the state in which a short band icon is selected. [Figure 11]FIG. 13 shows the state in which the buckle icon is selected. [Figure 12] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a state in which a clock object is generated in response to selection of the export button. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a state in which a watch object is attached to a normal humanoid avatar. [Figure 14] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a state in which a clock object is attached to an avatar of a two-headed character. [Figure 15] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a state in which a clock object is attached to an animal avatar. [Figure 16] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a virtual store in which duplicate objects are displayed. [Figure 17] 13 is a flowchart showing a control procedure of a virtual store operation process. [Figure 18] 13 is a flowchart showing a control procedure of a customization process. [Figure 19] 13 is a flowchart showing a control procedure for the object adjustment processing. [Figure 20] 10 is a flowchart showing a control procedure for a watch production process. [Figure 21] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of an information processing system according to a modified example. [Figure 22] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of the contents of user management data according to a modified example. [Figure 23] 13 is a flowchart showing a control procedure of a customization process according to a modified example. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0012] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0013] (Outline of Information Processing System) FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a configuration of an information processing system 1. As shown in FIG. The information processing system 1 includes a server 10, a plurality of information processing devices 20, and a plurality of VR devices 30 (terminal devices). The information processing system 1 provides various services in a three-dimensional virtual space (metaverse) constructed by a computer to a plurality of users who use the information processing system 1. The information processing system 1 can also provide users with services to which VR (virtual reality) is applied in the metaverse. VR is a technology that allows users to experience a virtual world constructed in a virtual space as if it were reality.

[0014] Each user of the information processing system 1 uses one information processing device 20 and one VR device 30. The information processing device 20 and the VR device 30 are connected to each other so that data can be transmitted and received by wireless communication. The VR device 30 includes a VR headset 31 (head-mounted device) and a controller 32 that are worn by the user. The VR device 30 detects the user's movements and input operations using the VR headset 31 and the controller 32, and transmits the detection results to the information processing device 20. The information processing device 20 transmits data such as images and sounds of the virtual space to the VR headset 31 in response to the user's movements and input operations detected by the VR device 30, and causes the VR headset 31 to display images and output sounds. In this way, VR is realized by displaying images of the virtual space on the VR headset 31 in real time and outputting sounds in response to the user's movements and input operations. In the virtual space, a character called an avatar 40 (see FIGS. 13 to 15) acts on behalf of the user. In other words, an image of the virtual space seen from the viewpoint of the avatar 40 is displayed in real time on the VR headset 31.

[0015] The information processing system 1 of this embodiment provides various services (hereinafter, referred to as "virtual store services") related to watches (wristwatches) as merchandise in a virtual store 200 (see FIG. 7) constructed in a virtual space 2. The virtual store services provided in the virtual store 200 include a service that allows a user to freely customize the design of a watch object (product object) that can be worn by an avatar 40, a service that generates a customized watch object and lets the avatar 40 wear it (try it on), and a service that allows a user to order a watch in the real world with the same design as the customized watch object. These will be described in detail later.

[0016] The multiple information processing devices 20 are connected to the server 10 via a network N, and are capable of transmitting and receiving data to and from the server 10. The network N is, for example, the Internet, but is not limited to this. The server 10 is, for example, managed by a provider of services in the virtual store 200. The server 10 transmits various data required for providing services in the virtual store 200 to the multiple information processing devices 20. The server 10 also receives and manages data related to users and data related to customization and sales of watches from the multiple information processing devices 20. Each component of the information processing system 1 will be described in detail below.

[0017] (Server configuration) FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the server 10. As shown in FIG. The server 10 includes a CPU 11 (Central Processing Unit), a RAM 12 (Random Access Memory), a storage unit 13, a communication unit 14, and a bus 15. The components of the server 10 are connected to each other via the bus 15. The server 10 may further include an operation unit, a display unit, and the like that are used by an administrator of the server 10.

[0018] The CPU 11 is a processor that reads and executes the program 131 stored in the storage unit 13 and performs various arithmetic processing to control the operation of each unit of the server 10. The server 10 may have multiple processors (e.g., multiple CPUs), and the multiple processes executed by the CPU 11 of the present embodiment may be executed by the multiple processors. In this case, the multiple processors may be involved in a common process, or the multiple processors may independently execute different processes in parallel.

[0019] The RAM 12 provides a working memory space for the CPU 11 and stores temporary data.

[0020] The storage unit 13 is a non-transitory recording medium readable by the CPU 11 as a computer, and stores a program 131 and various data. The storage unit 13 includes a non-volatile memory such as a hard disk drive (HDD) or a solid state drive (SSD). The program 131 is stored in the storage unit 13 in the form of a computer-readable program code. The data stored in the storage unit 13 includes user management data 132 in which information related to multiple users of the information processing system 1 is recorded.

[0021] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the contents of the user management data 132. As shown in FIG. One row of data in the user management data 132 corresponds to one user. Each row of data includes data items such as "user ID", "avatar ID", and "avatar information".

[0022] A "user ID" is a unique code assigned to each user. The "avatar ID" is a unique code assigned to the avatar 40 corresponding to the user. The "avatar information" includes a number of sub-items related to the characteristics of the avatar 40. Here, the sub-items shown are, for example, "total length," "maximum wrist diameter," and "wrist shape." "Total length" is the total length of the avatar 40 in the virtual space 2 (height, in the case of a humanoid avatar 40). “Maximum wrist diameter” is the maximum diameter of avatar 40's wrist. "Wrist shape" is the shape of the wrist of avatar 40. "Wrist shape" may be expressed by a numerical value such as the ratio between the maximum diameter and the minimum diameter. The units of "total length" and "maximum wrist diameter" can be any unit length related to length in the virtual space 2. "Total length", "maximum wrist diameter" and "wrist shape" are referenced when automatically adjusting the size and / or shape of the watch object, which will be described later. The user management data 132 may further include data items not shown in Fig. 3. For example, data items such as user attributes, characteristics, login history, and product purchase history may further be included.

[0023] 2, the communication unit 14 performs a communication operation in accordance with a predetermined communication standard. The communication unit 14 transmits and receives data to and from the information processing device 20 via the network N through this communication operation.

[0024] (Configuration of information processing device) FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the information processing device 20. As shown in FIG. The information processing device 20 includes a CPU 21 (processing unit, computer), a RAM 22, a storage unit 23, an operation input unit 24, an output unit 25, a communication unit 26, and a bus 27. The units of the information processing device 20 are connected via the bus 27. The information processing device 20 is, for example, a notebook PC or a desktop PC, but is not limited to these and may be a tablet terminal, a smartphone, or the like.

[0025] The CPU 21 is a processor that reads and executes the program 231 stored in the storage unit 23 and performs various arithmetic processing, thereby controlling the operation of each unit of the information processing device 20. The information processing device 20 may have multiple processors (e.g., multiple CPUs), and the multiple processes performed by the CPU 21 of this embodiment may be executed by the multiple processors. In this case, a "processing unit" is configured by the multiple processors. In this case, the multiple processors may be involved in a common process, or the multiple processors may independently execute different processes in parallel.

[0026] The RAM 22 provides a working memory space for the CPU 21 and stores temporary data.

[0027] The storage unit 23 is a non-transitory recording medium readable by the CPU 21 as a computer, and stores programs such as the program 231 and various data. The storage unit 23 includes a non-volatile memory such as an HDD or SSD. The program is stored in the storage unit 23 in the form of a computer-readable program code. The data stored in the storage unit 23 includes object data 232 in which information related to objects in the virtual space 2 is recorded. The object data 232 may be stored in the storage unit 13 of the server 10, or the CPU 21 of the information processing device 20 may acquire information on the object data 232 from the server 10 via the communication unit 26 as necessary.

[0028] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of the contents of the object data 232. As shown in FIG. One row of data in the object data 232 corresponds to one object. Fig. 5 illustrates data related to a clock object handled in the virtual store 200, among the objects in the virtual space 2. Each row of data includes data on items such as "object ID", "name", "display magnification correction", "shape correction", "avatar to be worn", and "customization information".

[0029] An "object ID" is a unique code assigned to each object. "Name" is the name of each object, which is "Clock" in this example.

[0030] "Display magnification correction" is a setting related to the size at which an object is displayed. Here, the size of the object is expressed as a magnification with the default size being 1. A value greater than 1 indicates that the object is displayed larger than the default size, and a value less than 1 indicates that the object is displayed smaller than the default size. The "display magnification correction" setting is adjusted according to the overall length and maximum wrist diameter of the avatar 40 to be worn, so that the clock object is displayed at a size that suits the avatar 40. The "display magnification correction" setting is one aspect of the "setting related to the size of the product object". The setting related to the size of the object does not necessarily have to be expressed by the display magnification, and may be, for example, a setting that directly specifies the size of the object (such as the width or length of the entire object or a predetermined portion thereof).

[0031] "Shape correction" is a setting related to the correction of the shape when an object is displayed. Here, the shape of the watch band when worn by the avatar 40 is specified. For example, if the setting is "cylinder", the shape of the watch object is corrected so that the band is cylindrical, and if the setting is "elliptical cylinder", the shape of the watch object is corrected so that the band is elliptical cylinder. In the case of "elliptical cylinder", the flattening rate of the ellipse may also be specified. The "shape correction" setting is adjusted according to the wrist shape of the avatar 40 to be worn, so that the watch object is displayed in a shape that suits the avatar 40. The "shape correction" setting is one aspect of the "setting related to the shape of the product object".

[0032] The "target avatar" is information on the avatar 40 when an object (here, a clock object) is worn by the avatar 40. Here, the "target avatar" includes sub-items of "avatar ID" and "body part". The "avatar ID" is the avatar ID corresponding to the avatar 40 wearing the object. The "body part" indicates the body part of the avatar 40 to which the object is worn. If the object is not worn by any avatar 40, the "target avatar" is blank data (empty characters). If a setting value is input to the "target avatar", the position and orientation of the object are updated as needed to follow the movement of the set body part of the set avatar 40. This provides a display effect as if the object is worn on the body part of the avatar 40.

[0033] The "customization information" indicates the content of customization when the design of a clock object, which will be described later, is customized. Specifically, the "customization information" includes sub-items such as a "customization design ID," a "base design," and "bezel color" and "face color" that indicate the colors of each component (part) of the clock. The "customized design ID" is a unique code that represents the customized design set for the clock object. "Base design" is a unique code that represents the design used as the base for customization. If a customized design is used as the base, the "base design" will be the above-mentioned customized design ID. The clock object of this embodiment has a bezel 61, a face 62 (watch face), a short band 63, a long band 64, a ring 65, and a buckle 66 as components (see FIG. 9). Each component is composed of one or more parts. For example, the face 62 component is composed of a printed glass, a liquid crystal display, a control circuit, a case, etc. The sub-items of the "customization information" include, for example, the sub-items of "bezel color" representing the color of the bezel 61, "face color" representing the color of the face 62, "short band color" representing the color of the short band 63, "long band color" representing the color of the long band 64, "ring color" representing the color of the ring 65, and "buckle color" representing the color of the buckle 66 (in FIG. 5, the sub-items other than "bezel color" and "face color" are omitted). If the design of the clock object is not customized, the items other than "base design" in the "customization information" are blank data (null characters). In this case, the design of the clock object is the same as the "base design".

[0034] Fig. 5 shows an example of a data configuration for identifying the size, shape, target avatar, and customized design of an object in the object data 232, but is not limited thereto. The object data 232 may further include data items not shown in Fig. 5. For example, the object data 232 may include information that can identify the position and orientation of the object in the virtual space 2, and the external shape of the object (such as a file path of the 3D model data of the object). 5 illustrates an example of line data related to a clock object, but the object data 232 also includes line data related to various objects that may be components of the virtual space 2. For example, the object data 232 includes data related to objects such as the interior and fixtures of the virtual store 200, and the avatars 40 of each user. At least a portion of the data related to the avatars 40 may be extracted from the user management data 132 of the server 10. 5, information on the color of each component, such as the bezel color and face color, is stored, but the design pattern of each component may also be added. For example, for the subitem "bezel design", "polka dot pattern" indicating the type of design is stored.

[0035] 4, the operation input unit 24 accepts an input operation by the user and outputs an input signal according to the input operation to the CPU 21. The operation input unit 24 includes input devices such as a keyboard, a mouse, and a touch panel.

[0036] The output unit 25 outputs to the user information related to the processing contents and various statuses of the information processing device 20. The output unit 25 includes, for example, a display device such as a liquid crystal display, a sound output device such as a speaker, and a light emitting device such as an LED.

[0037] The communication unit 26 performs a communication operation according to a predetermined communication standard. Through this communication operation, the communication unit 26 transmits and receives data to and from the server 10 via the network N. The communication unit 26 also transmits and receives data to and from the VR device 30 via wireless communication.

[0038] (VR device configuration) FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the VR device 30. The VR device 30 includes a VR headset 31, a controller 32 for a right hand, and a controller 32 for a left hand. The two controllers 32 are connected to the VR headset 31 wirelessly or via a wire to enable data communication. The VR headset 31 is used by being worn on the user's head. The controller 32 is used by being worn or held on the user's hand. The controller 32 corresponds to an "input unit."

[0039] The VR headset 31 includes a CPU 311, a RAM 312, a storage unit 313, an operation input unit 314, a display unit 315, a sound output unit 316, a sensor unit 317, a communication unit 318, and a bus 319. The various units of the VR headset 31 are connected to each other via the bus 319.

[0040] The CPU 311 is a processor that reads and executes a program 3131 stored in the storage unit 313 and performs various arithmetic processing to control the operation of each unit of the VR headset 31. Note that the VR headset 31 may have multiple processors (e.g., multiple CPUs), and the multiple processes executed by the CPU 311 of this embodiment may be executed by the multiple processors. In this case, the multiple processors may be involved in a common process, or the multiple processors may independently execute different processes in parallel.

[0041] The RAM 312 provides a working memory space for the CPU 311 and stores temporary data.

[0042] The storage unit 313 is a non-transitory recording medium readable by the CPU 311 as a computer, and stores the program 3131 and various data. The storage unit 313 includes a non-volatile memory such as a flash memory. The program 3131 is stored in the storage unit 313 in the form of a computer-readable program code.

[0043] The operation input unit 314 includes various switches, buttons, etc., accepts an input operation by a user, and outputs an input signal corresponding to the input operation to the CPU 311. The operation input unit 314 may also include a microphone, and may be capable of accepting an input operation by the user's voice via the microphone. The operation input unit 314 corresponds to the "input unit."

[0044] The display unit 315 displays an image to be viewed by a user wearing the VR headset 31. The display unit 315 includes a liquid crystal display, an organic EL display, or the like, provided in a position viewable by a user wearing the VR headset 31. Image data of an image displayed by the display unit 315 is transmitted from the information processing device 20 to the VR headset 31. The display unit 315 displays an image based on the received image data under the control of the CPU 311.

[0045] The sound output unit 316 outputs various sounds that are recognized by the hearing of a user wearing the VR headset 31. The sound output unit 316 includes a speaker that outputs sounds. Sound data of the sounds output by the sound output unit 316 is transmitted from the information processing device 20 to the VR headset 31. The sound output unit 316 outputs sounds based on the received sound data under the control of the CPU 311.

[0046] The sensor unit 317 detects the movement and orientation of the head of the user wearing the VR headset 31. The sensor unit 317 includes, for example, a three-axis acceleration sensor, a three-axis gyro sensor, and a three-axis geomagnetic sensor. The three-axis acceleration sensor detects the acceleration in each axis direction applied to the VR headset 31 according to the user's movement at a predetermined sampling frequency, and outputs the acceleration data as the detection result to the CPU 311. The three-axis gyro sensor detects the angular velocity around each axis applied to the VR headset 31 according to the user's movement at a predetermined sampling frequency, and outputs the angular velocity data as the detection result to the CPU 311. The three-axis geomagnetic sensor detects the magnitude of the geomagnetism passing through the VR headset 31 at a predetermined sampling frequency, and outputs the geomagnetic data as the detection result to the CPU 311. The data output from the three-axis acceleration sensor, the three-axis gyro sensor, and the three-axis geomagnetic sensor include signal components for three axes that are orthogonal to each other. The CPU 311 derives the movement and orientation of the user's head based on the acceleration data, angular velocity data, and geomagnetic data received from the sensor unit 317. The sensor unit 317 is capable of receiving the user's movement and direction as user operation, and corresponds to an "input unit."

[0047] The communication unit 318 performs a communication operation in accordance with a predetermined communication standard. Through this communication operation, the communication unit 318 transmits and receives data between the controller 32 and the information processing device 20 via wireless communication.

[0048] The controller 32 includes a CPU 321 which controls the overall operation of the controller 32, a RAM 322 which provides working memory space for the CPU 321, a memory unit 323 in which programs and data necessary for executing the programs are stored, an operation input unit 324, a sensor unit 325, and a communication unit 326 which performs data communication with the VR headset 31.

[0049] The operation input unit 324 includes various switches, buttons, operation keys, etc., accepts an input operation by the user, and outputs an input signal according to the input operation to the CPU 321. In addition, the operation input unit 324 may be capable of separately detecting the movement of each of the user's fingers.

[0050] The sensor unit 325 includes a three-axis acceleration sensor, a three-axis gyro sensor, and a three-axis geomagnetic sensor, and detects the movement and orientation of the hand of the user holding or wearing the controller 32. The configuration and operation of the sensor unit 325 may be similar to those of the sensor unit 317 of the VR headset 31, for example.

[0051] The configuration of the VR device 30 is not limited to the above. For example, the VR equipment 30 may further include an auxiliary sensor device that is not held or worn by the user. This sensor device may be, for example, a device that is installed on the floor or the like and optically detects the movement of the user or the movement of the VR headset 31 and the controller 32 by laser scanning or the like. In addition, in cases where it is not necessary to detect the movements of both hands separately, one of the controllers 32 may be omitted. In addition, in cases where the VR headset 31 is capable of detecting the necessary user movements and input operations, the controller 32 may be omitted.

[0052] (Operation of information processing system) Next, the operation of the information processing system 1 will be described. In the following description of the operation, the subject of operation is the CPU 11 of the server 10, the CPU 21 of the information processing device 20, the CPU 311 of the VR headset 31, or the CPU 321 of the controller 32, but for ease of explanation, the server 10, the information processing device 20, the VR headset 31, or the controller 32 may be described as the subject of operation. In addition, the user's movements and input operations detected by the VR device 30 are hereinafter collectively referred to as "user's operations." That is, the "user's operations" in this embodiment include input operations detected by the operation input unit 314 of the VR headset 31 and the operation input unit 324 of the controller 32, and actions detected by the sensor unit 317 of the VR headset 31 and the sensor unit 325 of the controller 32. In the following description, the image display operation in the VR headset 31 will be mainly described, and a description of other operations such as sound output will be omitted.

[0053] <Start of virtual store service and VR-related operations> When a user starts using the above-mentioned virtual store service provided by the information processing system 1, the user puts on the VR headset 31 and the controller 32 of the VR device 30 and performs a predetermined operation to start the service. In response to the operation, user authentication information is transmitted from the information processing device 20 to the server 10, and when the user is authenticated by the server 10, the authentication result is returned from the server 10 to the information processing device 20, and the virtual store service for the authenticated user is started.

[0054] When the virtual store service is started, the information processing device 20 starts transmitting image data of the virtual store 200 to the VR headset 31 of the VR device 30. Here, the position of the user's avatar 40 in the virtual store 200 is set to a predetermined initial position, and image data of the virtual store 200 as seen from the viewpoint of the avatar 40 at the initial position is transmitted to the VR headset 31. In response to this, the display unit 315 of the VR headset 31 starts displaying a VR screen 3151 of the virtual store 200 based on the received image data.

[0055] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing the VR screen 3151. The VR screen 3151 includes an image that three-dimensionally expresses the interior of the virtual store 200. Inside the virtual store 200, a customized IF (interface) 50 and a sample object 60 are installed.

[0056] The customization IF 50 is an interface operated by the avatar 40 to customize the design of the clock object.

[0057] The sample object 60 is a model object that is an enlarged version of a clock object. The sample object 60 reflects the content of the customization performed by the customization IF 50. The sample object 60 is placed in the space above the base 201. The time displayed on the sample object 60 reflects the time in the real world. For example, the time set on any one of the server 10, the information processing device 20, and the VR device 30 is reflected in the time displayed on the sample object 60. The time displayed on the sample object 60 may be displayed in a 12-hour format, with a "PM" mark lit if it is afternoon. It may also be displayed in a 24-hour format.

[0058] The position, orientation, shape, etc. of each object in the virtual store 200 (such as the interior of the virtual store 200, the customization IF 50, and the sample object 60) are generated based on information in the object data 232 of the information processing device 20. Information on each object in the object data 232 may be stored in advance in the storage unit 23 of the information processing device 20, or may be transmitted from the server 10 to the information processing device 20 when the virtual store service is started.

[0059] Also, when the virtual store service is started, the VR device 30 starts to detect the user's operation, and the detection result is continuously transmitted to the information processing device 20. The information processing device 20 controls the movement of the avatar 40 in the virtual store 200 (virtual space 2) according to the received user's operation. That is, the information processing device 20 converts the received user's operation into the movement of the avatar 40 in the virtual store 200, and specifies and updates the position, direction, posture, etc. of the avatar 40 in the virtual store 200 in real time. Then, the information processing device 20 generates image data of the virtual store 200 seen from the viewpoint of the avatar 40 in the updated position and direction, and transmits it to the VR headset 31. This image data generation and transmission are repeated at a predetermined frame rate. The display unit 315 of the VR headset 31 displays the VR screen 3151 at the above frame rate based on the received image data of the virtual store 200. As a result, the user wearing the VR headset 31 can view the inside of the virtual store 200 in real time from the viewpoint of the avatar 40 moving and moving in the virtual store 200 according to the user's operation.

[0060] Since the VR screen 3151 is a first-person viewpoint of the avatar 40, the avatar 40 is not generally displayed on the VR screen 3151. However, when the arm is moved to a position within the field of view of the avatar 40 or when the line of sight of the avatar 40 is directed toward the user's own body, a part of the avatar 40 is displayed on the VR screen 3151 according to the positional relationship between the field of view of the avatar 40 and the arm or body. In FIG. 7, the user is performing an action of stretching the right arm forward, and in response to this, the right hand 40R of the avatar 40 is displayed within the VR screen 3151.

[0061] <Actions related to customizing the clock object> As shown in FIG. 7, in the virtual store 200, a virtual line L extends from the fingertip of the avatar 40, and a pointer P is generated at the intersection between the virtual line L and the object. By performing a predetermined operation with the pointer P aligned with the position of a desired object, the object in the virtual store 200 can be selected. The position and direction of the virtual line L are derived according to the position and direction of the fingers of the avatar 40, which are specified according to the user's operation. The position of the pointer P is derived as the intersection between the derived virtual line L and the surface of each object in the virtual space 2, which is specified from the object data 232. The virtual line L and the pointer P may be displayed only when the distance between the fingertip and the object is equal to or less than a predetermined distance. When the user wants to customize the design of the clock object, the user operates the customization IF 50 by the operation of the avatar 40 using the pointer P.

[0062] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing the customized IF 50. As shown in FIG. The customization IF 50 is a board-shaped object like a signboard. The customization IF 50 includes an object selection IF 51, a color selection IF 52, and an export button 53.

[0063] The object selection IF51 is an interface for selecting a component to be customized among a plurality of components (a plurality of parts) constituting a clock object. The object selection IF51 of this embodiment includes a bezel icon 511 for selecting the bezel 61 of the clock as a customization target, a face icon 512 for selecting the face 62, a short band icon 513 for selecting the short band 63, a long band icon 514 for selecting the long band 64, a loose ring icon 515 for selecting the loose ring 65, and a buckle icon 516 for selecting the buckle 66. Each icon 511 to 516 can be selected using the above-mentioned pointer P. In the example shown in FIG. 8, one selected icon (here, the bezel icon 511) is surrounded by a frame. However, this is not limited to this, and for example, only the selected icon may be displayed with the remaining icons turned off.

[0064] Note that the components to be customized are merely examples, and components other than those described above may be customized. For example, in addition to the free ring icon 515 corresponding to a single free ring, a free ring icon corresponding to a triple free ring may be displayed, and the shape of the free fit may be selected from single or triple by selecting one of the free ring icons.

[0065] The color selection IF52 is an interface for designating the color of the component selected in the target selection IF51. The color selection IF52 includes a plurality of color palettes 521 corresponding to any one of a plurality of different colors. Each color palette 521 can be selected using the above-mentioned pointer P. The type of color palette 521 included in the color selection IF52 is switched in accordance with the icon selected among the icons 511 to 516 of the target selection IF51. That is, the color palette 521 of the color preset for the component corresponding to the selected icon is displayed in the color selection IF52.

[0066] With one of the icons 511-516 selected in the object selection IF 51, the color of the component corresponding to the icon 511-516 can be changed by selecting one of the color palettes 521 in the color selection IF 52. The change in color of the component is reflected in the sample object 60. That is, when the customization IF 50 is operated by the action of the avatar 40, the information processing device 20 changes the content of the sample object 60 so that the customization content of the clock object corresponding to the content of the operation is reflected, and transmits the changed image data to the VR headset 31.

[0067] In the sample object 60, in a default state at the start of customization, the color of each component is white, and the color of each component is changed as needed in response to the operation of the customization IF 50. The design of the sample object 60 in the default state corresponds to, for example, the base design of "TYPE01" in the object data 232 shown in FIG. 5. In addition, in the default state, the sample object 60 is arranged so that the face 62 displaying the time faces the front direction of the virtual store 200. In this embodiment, the front direction of the virtual store 200 is the direction in which the face on which the target selection IF 51 and the like of the customization IF 50 are provided faces. FIG. 7 shows the sample object 60 in the default state.

[0068] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a state in which the bezel icon 511 is selected. For convenience of explanation, FIG. 9 shows a third-person viewpoint screen 3152 that displays the inside of the virtual store 200 from a third-person viewpoint. The third-person viewpoint screen 3152 is an image of the virtual store 200 viewed from a predetermined point in the virtual space 2, which is different from the viewpoint of the avatar 40. In other words, the third-person viewpoint screen 3152 is an image in which the avatar 40 located in the virtual store 200 is displayed together with the virtual store 200. The user can switch between the VR screen 3151 and the third-person viewpoint screen 3152 by performing a predetermined operation. It is of course possible to perform customization while keeping the VR screen 3151. When performing customization using the VR screen 3151, the user can observe the sample object 60 from any direction by moving the avatar 40 in the virtual store 200.

[0069] 9, the bezel icon 511 is selected and the color of the bezel 61 is designated as red. In response to this, the color of the bezel 61 of the sample object 60 is colored red.

[0070] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a state in which the short band icon 513 is selected. When any one of the icons 511 to 516 of the target selection IF 51 is selected, the orientation of the sample object 60 is changed so that the component corresponding to the selected icon is easily visible to the user. In detail, when a certain component of the clock object is selected by the target selection IF 51, the information processing device 20 changes the orientation of the sample object 60 so that the component in the sample object 60 faces a reference direction in the virtual store 200 (virtual space 2), and transmits the changed image data to the VR headset 31. Here, the reference direction is, for example, the front direction in the virtual store 200. In the example shown in FIG. 10, in response to the selection of the short band icon 513, the sample object 60 is rotated so that the short band 63 of the sample object 60 faces the front direction. The reference direction may be a direction from the position of the sample object 60 in the virtual store 200 (for example, the position of the representative point of the sample object 60) to the position of the avatar 40 (for example, the position of the representative point of the avatar 40). For example, the reference direction is set to a direction toward a surface toward which the face of the avatar 40 (one of the eyes of the face) is facing. As a result, when an arbitrary component is selected by the avatar 40 in the target selection IF 51, the selected component in the sample object 60 is displayed toward the face of the avatar 40, so that the avatar 40 (user) can customize the clock object in a state in which the selected component is easily visible. The reference direction can be switched by operating the operation input unit 314.

[0071] 10, the color of the short band 63 is specified as yellow with the short band icon 513 selected, and accordingly, the color of the short band 63 of the sample object 60 is colored yellow.

[0072] FIG. 11 shows the state when the buckle icon 516 is selected. 11, in response to the selection of the buckle icon 516, the sample object 60 rotates so that the buckle 66 of the sample object 60 faces forward. In this state, the color of the buckle 66 can be changed by selecting a color palette 521 from the color selection IF 52.

[0073] In this way, by selecting an icon 511 to 516 of the object selection IF 51, the sample object 60 rotates so that the corresponding component faces forward, and further by selecting a color palette 521 of the color selection IF 52, the color of the component of the sample object 60 can be changed. By repeating this operation, the color of each component of the sample object 60 can be changed to customize the design. In other words, when the customization IF 50 is operated by the avatar 40, the settings related to the clock object are changed so that the clock object is customized according to the contents of the operation. For example, at the start of customization, new line data (customization target data 2321 shown in FIG. 5) related to the clock object to be customized may be generated in the object data 232, and the settings of the colors of components such as the "bezel color" may be changed in the customization target data 2321. It is also possible to change the design of an existing clock object by the above operation, and in this case, the settings of the line data related to the design of the existing clock object in the object data 232 may be changed. Alternatively, at this stage, the setting value of the sample object 60 in the object data 232 may be changed according to the contents of the customization, and when a clock object is newly generated, the setting value of the sample object 60 may be reflected in the line data of the new clock object.

[0074] Customization of the design can also be performed jointly by multiple users. In this case, multiple users log in, and multiple avatars 40 corresponding to the multiple users enter the virtual store 200. Information related to the movement of each avatar 40 in response to the operation of each user is transmitted from each information processing device 20 via the server 10 or directly to the information processing device 20 of the other user. As a result, the movements of the multiple avatars 40 corresponding to the multiple users are shared in the information processing device 20 of each user. Each user can view the avatar 40 of the other user on the VR screen 3151 (or the third-person perspective screen 3152).

[0075] In the case of collaborative customization by multiple users, when the customization IF 50 is operated by the actions of two or more different avatars 40 among the multiple avatars 40, the customization according to the content of each operation is sequentially reflected in the sample object 60. That is, the settings related to the clock object are changed so that customization according to the content of each operation by the multiple avatars 40 is performed on one clock object. This allows multiple users to create a design for one clock object while checking the customization status of components by other users.

[0076] In this case, the reference direction in which the corresponding component of the sample object 60 faces in response to the selection of the icon 511-516 may be a direction toward one avatar 40 corresponding to one user. The one avatar 40 may be, for example, the avatar 40 that first entered the virtual store 200, or the avatar 40 that last entered the virtual store 200. Alternatively, each time an icon 511-516 is selected, the corresponding component of the sample object 60 may face toward the avatar 40 that selected the icon 511-516. In addition, the above-mentioned reference direction may be a direction toward the avatar 40 that is closest to the sample object 60 among the multiple avatars 40. As a result, even when multiple avatars 40 are located in the virtual store 200, the direction of the selected component changes toward the avatar 40 that is closest to the sample object 60, so that it is possible to prevent the sample object 60 from being obscured by the other avatars 40 and becoming difficult to see. Furthermore, by doing the above, even if one avatar 40 has the role of operating the customization IF 50 and another avatar 40 has the role of checking the customization of the sample object 60, multiple avatars 40 (users) can efficiently create the design of a single clock object.

[0077] In addition, when multiple avatars 40 corresponding to multiple users are present in the virtual store 200, each user can perform customization separately from the others. In this case, the content of the customization by the user is reflected in the sample object 60, and the content of the customization by other users is not reflected in the sample object 60. Each time a different avatar 40 enters the virtual store 200, a sample object 60 corresponding to each avatar 40 may be additionally displayed. This allows the status of the clock object customized by each of the multiple avatars 40 located in the virtual store 200 to be shared by the multiple avatars 40 (users).

[0078] After customizing the design as described above, by selecting the export button 53 (by the avatar 40 performing a predetermined action), a clock object 70 (product object) with the customized design is generated in the virtual space 2.

[0079] FIG. 12 is a diagram showing a state in which a clock object 70 is generated in response to selection of the export button 53. As shown in FIG. When the export button 53 is selected, a clock object 70 having the same design as the sample object 60 at that time is generated and displayed (output) near the export button 53. In addition, in response to the generation of the clock object 70, the sample object 60 returns to the default color scheme shown in FIG.

[0080] The generated clock object 70 is held or worn on any one of a plurality of parts of the avatar 40 when the avatar 40 performs a predetermined motion. When the avatar 40 holding or wearing the clock object 70 moves in the virtual space 2, the position and orientation of the clock object 70 in the virtual space 2 follows the position and orientation of the part of the avatar 40 where the clock object 70 is worn. For example, when the avatar 40 wears the clock object 70 on his or her wrist and performs a motion of twisting the wrist, the clock object 70 also rotates in response to the motion.

[0081] <Actions related to adjusting the clock object> In this embodiment, when the avatar 40 performs an action of holding or wearing the clock object 70 (i.e., when the user performs an operation to make the avatar 40 perform an action of holding or wearing the clock object 70), a setting related to at least one of the size and shape of the clock object 70 in the virtual space 2 is automatically adjusted according to the characteristics of the avatar 40. Note that it is also possible that when the avatar 40 holds the clock object 70, the setting related to the size and shape of the clock object 70 is not changed, and when the avatar 40 wears the clock object 70, the setting related to at least one of the size and shape of the clock object 70 is changed. The user's operation for making the avatar 40 perform the action of holding the clock object 70 is not particularly limited, and may be, for example, a predetermined grab operation for grabbing an object using the controller 32 when the hand of the avatar 40 is within a predetermined distance from the clock object 70. The user's operation for making the avatar 40 perform the action of wearing the clock object 70 is not particularly limited, and may be, for example, a predetermined wearing operation for wearing an object using the controller 32 when the avatar 40 is holding the clock object 70.

[0082] For example, the setting related to the size of the clock object in the virtual space 2 is adjusted according to the size of the avatar 40 in the virtual space 2. Specifically, the setting value of "display magnification correction" in the object data 232 shown in FIG. 5 is adjusted according to the setting value of "total length" or "maximum wrist diameter" in the "avatar information" in the user management data 132 shown in FIG. 3. As an example, the clock object 70 is enlarged or reduced (the setting value of "display magnification correction" is adjusted) so that the maximum width of the clock object 70 in the virtual space 2 corresponds to the "total length" of the avatar 40 in the virtual space 2. Alternatively, a setting related to the size of the clock object 70 in the virtual space 2 ("display magnification correction") is adjusted according to the size of the part of the avatar 40 that holds or wears the clock object 70 ("maximum wrist diameter" in this embodiment). For example, if the band of the clock object 70 is cylindrical, the "display magnification correction" is adjusted so that the inner diameter of the band matches the "maximum wrist diameter" of the avatar 40.

[0083] Furthermore, the settings relating to the shape of the clock object 70 may be adjusted so as to match the shape of the part of the avatar 40 on which the clock object 70 is to be worn. Specifically, the setting value of "shape correction" of the object data 232 is changed according to the setting value of "wrist shape" in "avatar information" of the user management data 132. For example, if the "wrist shape" of the avatar 40 is "cylinder", the "shape correction" of the clock object 70 is set to "cylinder" accordingly, and if the "wrist shape" of the avatar 40 is "elliptical cylinder", the "shape correction" of the clock object 70 is set to "elliptical cylinder" accordingly.

[0084] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a state in which a clock object 70 is attached to an ordinary humanoid avatar 40. As shown in FIG. FIG. 14 is a diagram showing a state in which a clock object 70 is attached to an avatar 40 of a character with a two-headed body. FIG. 15 is a diagram showing a state in which a clock object 70 is attached to an animal avatar 40. As shown in FIG. 14 and 15, the avatar 40 is not necessarily a normal human character. Therefore, the size and shape of the part (wrist) on which the clock object 70 is worn also vary. In this embodiment, at least one of the size and shape of the clock object 70 is automatically adjusted according to such various characteristics of the avatar 40.

[0085] 13 to 15 show the clock object 70 in the default state (with the "display magnification correction" set to "1") when it is generated in response to the selection of the export button 53. The maximum diameter of the wrist of each of the avatars 40 in FIGS. 13 to 15 is smaller than the inner diameter of the band of the clock object 70 in the default state. Therefore, when the clock object 70 is worn on the wrist of any of the avatars 40, the clock object 70 is reduced in size from the default state. The reduction ratio at this time is adjusted according to the size (maximum diameter) of the wrist of the avatar 40. The size of the wrist is smallest for the humanoid avatar 40 in FIG. 13, largest for the two-headed character avatar 40 in FIG. 14, and largest for the animal avatar 40 in FIG. 15. Therefore, the value of the "display magnification correction" after adjustment is smallest when worn on the avatar 40 in FIG. 13, and largest when worn on the avatar 40 in FIG. 15.

[0086] If the wrist (or the part equivalent to the wrist) of avatar 40 is not cylindrical but is an elliptical cylinder or is flat (for example, in the case of avatar 40 in which the wrist is equivalent to a flat wing, such as that of a penguin), the "shape correction" setting is adjusted according to the shape of avatar 40's wrist.

[0087] In the case of an animal avatar 40 of a type in which a wrist cannot be conceptualized, the clock object 70 may be worn on a part other than the wrist (for example, the head, torso, etc.). In this case, the size and shape of the clock object 70 are adjusted according to the size and shape of the part to which it is worn. Even in the case of a humanoid avatar 40 of a type in which a wrist can be conceptualized, the clock object 70 may be worn on a part other than the wrist (the head, torso, ankle, etc.).

[0088] Furthermore, when the user performs an operation to make the avatar 40 hold or wear the clock object 70, the size and / or shape of the clock object 70 may be adjusted to match the characteristics (size and / or shape) of the part of the avatar 40 that is closest to the clock object 70. As one example, if the part of the avatar 40 that is closest to the clock object 70 is the wrist, the size and / or shape of the clock object 70 may be adjusted to match the wrist, and if the part of the avatar 40 that is closest to the clock object 70 is the head, the size and / or shape of the clock object 70 may be adjusted to match the head. In addition, the adjustment of the size and / or shape of the clock object 70 is not limited to the case where an operation is performed to make the avatar 40 hold or wear the clock object 70. For example, the size and / or shape of the clock object 70 may be adjusted when an operation is performed to make the avatar 40 perform an operation to generate the clock object 70 (i.e., an operation to select the export button 53). Specifically, when the export button 53 is selected by the humanoid avatar 40 in FIG. 13, the clock object 70 generated and displayed near the export button 53 in FIG. 12 is output (displayed) in a state adjusted to the size and shape of a part held or worn by the humanoid avatar 40. In addition, when the export button 53 is selected by the animal avatar 40 in FIG. 15, the clock object 70 generated and displayed near the export button 53 is output (displayed) in a state adjusted to the size and shape of a part held or worn by the animal avatar 40. In other words, the size and shape of the generated clock object 70 are adjusted according to the avatar 40 that selected the export button 53. In this case, information (such as the avatar ID) of the avatar 40 who selected the export button 53 may be transmitted from the VR device 30 to the information processing device 20. As a result, the size and shape of the clock object 70 output (displayed) in the customization IF 50 when the avatar 40 selects the export button 53 in FIG. 12 can be made different depending on the type of avatar 40.

[0089] Also, a mirror may be provided on part of the wall of the virtual store 200 (or part of the wall may be changed into a mirror by a user's operation), and by looking at this mirror from the viewpoint of the avatar 40, the avatar 40 reflected in the mirror may be reflected on the VR screen 3151. This allows the user to visually recognize the avatar 40 and the clock object 70 on the VR screen 3151 as well.

[0090] <Operations related to the creation of duplicate objects> In the above description, the white sample object 60 in the default state shown in FIG. 7 is used as the base model for customization, but the present invention is not limited to this, and the user may be allowed to select the base model. For example, it may be possible to customize a clock object 70 that is the same as the clock object 70 worn by an avatar 40 located within the virtual store 200 among multiple avatars 40 corresponding to multiple users, or a clock object 70 that is the same as the clock object 70 worn by an avatar 40 that was previously located within the virtual store 200 in the virtual store 200. In this case, a duplicate object 80 may be generated by duplicating at least one of the clock object 70 worn by an avatar 40 among the multiple avatars 40 located within the virtual store 200, and the clock object 70 worn in the virtual store 200 by an avatar 40 among the multiple avatars 40 that was previously located within the virtual store 200, and the duplicate object 80 may be displayed (placed) within the virtual store 200, and the clock object 70 that is identical to any of the duplicate objects 80 may be used as a target for customization.

[0091] FIG. 16 is a diagram showing a virtual store 200 in which duplicate objects 80 are displayed. 16, an animal avatar 40 corresponding to another user has entered the virtual store 200. A duplicate object 80a obtained by duplicating a watch object 70a worn by this animal avatar 40 is displayed on a shelf 202 located on the left side of the virtual store 200. Also displayed on the shelf 202 are duplicate objects 80b, 80c, and 80d of watch objects 70b, 70c, and 70d (not shown) worn in the virtual store 200 by other avatars 40 who have previously entered the virtual store 200.

[0092] When the user selects one of the duplicate objects 80a to 80d using the pointer P, the selected duplicate object 80 becomes the base model for customization. In response to the selection of the base model, a code corresponding to the selected duplicate object 80a is input to the "base design" of the customization target data 2321 shown in FIG. 5. Here, it is assumed that the duplicate object 80a is selected as the base model. When the base model is selected, the design of the base model (duplicate object 80a) is reflected in the sample object 60, as shown in FIG. 16. By operating the customization IF 50 in this state, customization based on the duplicate object 80a can be performed.

[0093] The duplicate object 80 is not limited to a duplicate of the clock object 70 that is currently or was previously worn by the avatar 40 of another user. For example, the duplicate object 80 may be a duplicate of the clock object 70 currently worn by the user's own avatar 40. Alternatively, the duplicate object 80 may be a duplicate of a predetermined number of clock objects 70 that were most recently (last) generated in the virtual store 200. Alternatively, the duplicate object 80 may be a multiple object 80 for a clock object 70 that was prepared (customized) in advance by a user (an individual or an organization such as a company) who manages the operation of the virtual store 200. These duplicate objects 80 can also be used as base models for customization. The duplicate objects 80 displayed on the shelves 202 in the virtual store 200 may be a duplicate of the watch object 70 worn (or worn) by the avatar 40, and a duplicate of the watch 70 prepared by a user who manages the operation of the virtual store 200. When these two types of duplicates are displayed on the shelves 202, each type of duplicate may be placed on a different shelf 202. Also, each user may be able to select whether or not to permit duplication of the clock object 70 worn by his / her avatar 40.

[0094] <Real-world watch ordering and production actions> In the virtual store service of this embodiment, a watch that corresponds to the watch object 70 customized in the virtual store 200 (e.g., has the same design) can be ordered in the real world. For example, the avatar 40 can place the order by performing a predetermined action (e.g., pressing an order button) at an order counter (not shown) provided in the virtual store 200. When an order is placed, the information processing device 20 transmits an order request to the server 10. The order request includes, for example, the model of the ordered watch, the customization content, and information on the user corresponding to the avatar 40 that placed the order. The process of transmitting the order request to the server 10 corresponds to "processing for ordering a product in the real world." The server 10 executes a process for producing the watch in the real world and shipping it to the user based on the received order request.

[0095] Furthermore, production of the clock in the real world may be linked to generation of the clock object 70 in the virtual space 2. That is, generation of the clock object 70 in the virtual space 2 may be started in response to start of production of the ordered clock in the real world. Furthermore, in response to delivery of the ordered clock to the user in the real world, the clock object 70 generated in the virtual space 2 may be given to the avatar 40. In these cases, the clock object generated in conjunction with the real-world clock (hereinafter referred to as the "linked production clock object") may be distinguished from the clock object 70 generated by the export button 53 in the virtual store 200. For example, the clock object 70 generated by the export button 53 may be an object for trying on that can be held and worn by the avatar 40 only inside the virtual store 200 in the virtual space 2, and the linked production clock object may be an object that can be held and worn by the avatar 40 at any position in the virtual space 2, regardless of whether it is inside or outside the virtual store 200. The linked production clock object is also one aspect of the "product object". In addition, if the avatar 40 is holding and wearing the clock object 70 generated by the export button 53 and leaves the virtual store 200, the clock object 70 may be automatically no longer being held or worn by the avatar 40. In addition, in order to distinguish between the clock object 70 generated by the export button 53 and the linked production clock object, information that can distinguish between them (for example, 0 for the clock object 70 and 1 for the linked production clock object) may be provided as a sub-item in the row data of the object data 232.

[0096] In addition, when generating an interactive production clock object in conjunction with a real-world clock, a virtual factory that generates the interactive production clock object may be set up in the virtual space 2, and the process of generating the interactive production clock object in the virtual factory may be made visible through the avatar 40. In this case, when production instructions based on a production instruction sheet for an ordered watch are entered into a real system at a production factory in the real world, the same production instructions may also be entered in a virtual factory in virtual space 2, and the generation of a linked production watch object may begin. In addition, when shipping instructions based on a shipping instruction sheet for an ordered watch are entered into a real system at a production factory in the real world, the same shipping instructions may also be entered in a virtual factory in virtual space 2, and a linked production watch object may be assigned to avatar 40.

[0097] <Virtual store operation processing> Next, a description will be given of a virtual store operation process executed in the information processing system 1 to realize operations related to the above virtual store service. The following description will focus on the process executed by the CPU 21 of the information processing device 20 out of the virtual store operation process.

[0098] FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing a control procedure of the virtual store operation process. When the virtual store operation process is started, the CPU 21 of the information processing device 20 determines whether or not a user has logged in and the virtual store service has started (step S101). If it is determined that the virtual store service has not started ("NO" in step S101), the CPU 21 executes step S101 again.

[0099] When it is determined that the virtual store service has been started ("YES" in step S101), the CPU 21 starts receiving operation information related to the user's operation from the VR device 30 and controlling the avatar 40 in the virtual space 2 based on the received operation information (step S102). The CPU 21 also starts generating image data of the VR screen 3151 or the third-person viewpoint screen 3152 according to the position and orientation of the avatar 40 and transmitting the image data to the VR headset 31 (step S103). In each of the subsequent steps, the control of the avatar 40 based on the operation information, and the generation and transmission of image data of the VR screen 3151 or the third-person viewpoint screen 3152 to the VR headset 31 continue, but for convenience, the description of these processes will be omitted.

[0100] The CPU 21 determines whether or not the operation of the customization IF 50 by the avatar 40 has been started (step S104). If it is determined that the operation of the customization IF 50 has not been started ("NO" in step S104), the CPU 21 shifts the process to step S109. If it is determined that the operation of the customization IF 50 has been started ("YES" in step S104), the CPU 21 starts the customization process (step S105).

[0101] FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing a control procedure of the customization process. When the customization process is called, the CPU 21 changes the color and orientation of the sample object 60 to the color and orientation of the default state described above (step S201). The CPU 21 also generates customization target data 2321 (line data) related to the clock object 70 to be customized in the object data 232 (step S202). The customization target data 2321 corresponds to the line data related to the clock object 70 to be generated in step S211 described later.

[0102] The CPU 21 determines whether or not any of the duplicate objects 80 has been selected as a base model for customization (step S203). If it is determined that any of the duplicate objects 80 has been selected as a base model for customization ("YES" in step S203), the CPU 21 reflects the contents of the selected duplicate object 80 (here, the color of each component) in the sample object 60 (step S204). Also, in step S204, the CPU 21 reflects the contents of the selected duplicate object 80 in the customization target data 2321 generated in step S202. That is, the CPU 21 changes the setting of the color of each component in the customization target data 2321 to the color of each component of the duplicate object 80.

[0103] When step S204 is completed, or when it is determined in step S203 that the duplicate object 80 has not been selected as the base model for customization ("NO" in step S203), the CPU 21 determines whether or not a component to be customized has been selected by the action of the avatar 40 selecting one of the icons 511-516 of the object selection IF 51 (step S205). When it is determined that a component has been selected ("YES" in step S205), the CPU 21 rotates the sample object 60 so that the selected component faces the reference direction (step S206).

[0104] The CPU 21 determines whether or not a component color has been designated by the action of the avatar 40 selecting one of the color palettes 521 of the color selection IF 52 (step S207). If it is determined that a component color has been designated ("YES" in step S207), the CPU 21 colors the selected component in the sample object 60 in the designated color (step S208). The CPU 21 also changes the color setting of the corresponding component in the customization target data 2321 generated in step S202 (step S209). This step S209 corresponds to "processing for changing settings related to a product object so that the product object is customized."

[0105] When step S209 is completed, CPU 21 shifts the process to step S210. Also, when it is determined in step S205 that no component has been selected ("NO" in step S205) and when it is determined in step S207 that the color of the component has not been specified ("NO" in step S207), CPU 21 shifts the process to step S210. In step S210, CPU 21 determines whether or not export button 53 has been operated by avatar 40, and when it is determined that export button 53 has not been operated ("NO" in step S210), returns the process to step S205.

[0106] If it is determined that the export button 53 has been operated ("YES" in step S210), the CPU 21 generates a clock object 70 having the same design as the sample object 60 at that time based on the customization target data 2321 at that time, and displays (outputs) it at a specified position (step S211). In the above description, the customization target data 2321 is generated in step S202, the settings are changed successively in response to operations on the customization IF 50, and the clock object 70 is generated based on the customization target data 2321 in step S211, but instead of this, the following processing may be performed. That is, the color settings of the components in the row data of the sample object 60 in the object data 232 may be changed successively in response to operations on the customization IF 50, and in step S211, a clock object 70 (and the customization target data 2321) whose contents reflect the settings of the row data of the sample object 60 at that time point may be generated. When step S211 ends, the CPU 21 ends the customization process, and returns the process to the virtual store operation process of FIG.

[0107] When the customization process (step S105) in FIG. 17 ends, the CPU 21 executes an object adjustment process (step S106).

[0108] FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing a control procedure for the object adjustment processing. When the object adjustment process is called, the CPU 21 determines whether or not the user has performed an operation to make the avatar 40 hold or wear the clock object 70 (step S301). If it is determined that the operation has been performed ("YES" in step S301), the CPU 21 specifies the overall length of the avatar 40 and the size and shape of the part where the clock object 70 is held or worn (step S302). Here, the CPU 21 acquires from the server 10 the "avatar information" ("total length", "maximum wrist diameter", and "wrist shape") of the user management data 132 shown in FIG. 3, and specifies the size and shape of the part based on the acquired information. Alternatively, if the "avatar information" of the user management data 132 has been acquired in advance and recorded in the object data 232, the CPU 21 refers to the object data 232 to specify the size and shape of the part. Note that one of the "total length" and the "maximum wrist diameter" may be acquired and used in the next step S303.

[0109] CPU 21 adjusts the setting related to the size of clock object 70 ("display magnification correction" in object data 232 of FIG. 5) according to the overall length or size of the part of avatar 40 acquired in step S302 (step S303). CPU 21 also adjusts the setting related to the shape of clock object 70 ("shape correction" in object data 232) according to the shape of the part of avatar 40 acquired in step S302 (step S304). Note that if the default size of clock object 70 matches the size of the part of avatar 40, step S303 is omitted. Also, if the default shape of clock object 70 matches the shape of the part of avatar 40, step S304 is omitted.

[0110] The CPU 21 causes the avatar 40 to hold or wear the clock object 70 whose size and / or shape settings have been adjusted (step S305). Here, the CPU 21 records the avatar ID of the avatar 40 to be worn (held) and the wearing (holding) part in the "wearing target avatar" in the object data 232 in Fig. 5. When step S305 ends, the CPU 21 ends the object adjustment process and returns the process to the virtual store operation process in Fig. 17.

[0111] 17, when the object adjustment process (step S106) is completed, the CPU 21 determines whether or not an operation for ordering a watch has been performed in the real world (step S107). If it is determined that the operation has not been performed ("NO" in step S107), the CPU 21 shifts the process to step S109. If it is determined that the operation has been performed ("YES" in step S107), the CPU 21 starts a watch production process (step S108) to be described later.

[0112] When step S108 ends, the CPU 21 determines whether or not the avatar 40 has left the virtual store 200 (step S109). If it is determined that the avatar 40 has not left the virtual store 200 ("NO" in step S109), the CPU 21 returns the process to step S104. If it is determined that the avatar 40 has left the virtual store 200 ("YES" in step S109), the CPU 21 ends the virtual store operation process.

[0113] FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing the control procedure of the watch production process. When the watch production process is started, the CPU 21 transmits the above-mentioned order request including information related to the customization details of the ordered watch to the server 10 (step S401). The server 10 executes a process for producing the watch in the real world and shipping it to the user based on the received information. The server 10 also transmits information related to the progress of the watch production process in the real world to the information processing device 20 as appropriate. For example, when production of the watch has started in the real world, the server 10 transmits production start information to the information processing device 20. When the watch has been shipped to the user in the real world, the server 10 transmits shipping information to the information processing device 20.

[0114] CPU21 determines whether or not production of the clock has started in the real world based on whether or not the above-mentioned production start information has been received (step S402). If it is determined that production of the clock has not started in the real world ("NO" in step S402), CPU21 executes step S402 again. If it is determined that production of the clock has started in the real world ("YES" in step S402), CPU21 starts the generation of an interlocking production clock object in virtual space 2 (for example, in the above-mentioned virtual factory) (step S403).

[0115] The CPU 21 determines whether the clock has been shipped to the user in the real world based on whether the above-mentioned shipping information has been received (step S404). If it is determined that the clock has not been shipped to the user in the real world ("NO" in step S404), the CPU 21 executes step S404 again. If it is determined that the clock has been shipped to the user in the real world ("YES" in step S404), the CPU 21 assigns the linked production clock object to the avatar 40 in the virtual space 2 (step S405). The process of step S405 may be a process of putting the linked production clock object on the wrist of the avatar 40, or a process of putting the avatar 40 in a state where the linked production clock object can be worn by adding the linked production clock object to a list of belongings associated with the avatar 40. Also, in the virtual world, as in the real world, when the linked production clock object is shipped from the virtual factory to the avatar 40, shipping the linked production clock object corresponds to assigning the linked production clock object to the avatar 40. When step S405 ends, the CPU 21 ends the watch production process.

[0116] (Modification) Next, a modified example of the above embodiment will be described. Below, differences from the above embodiment will be described, and configurations common to the above embodiment will be denoted by common reference numerals and description will be omitted. Below, the design of the clock object 70 customized by the method of the above embodiment will be referred to as a "customized design."

[0117] In this variation, a non-fungible token (hereinafter referred to as "NFT") associated with a part or all of the customized design can be registered in association with the user who performed the customization. NFT is non-fungible digital data that uses blockchain technology to prove the uniqueness and owner of digital content such as images, videos, or audio. NFTs can also be purchased and sold on the NFT marketplace.

[0118] FIG. 21 is a diagram showing a configuration of an information processing system 1 according to a modified example. The information processing system 1 according to this modified example includes an NFT management system 90 connected to the server 10 and the information processing device 20 via a network N. The NFT management system 90 includes a blockchain 91. The NFT management system 90 manages NFTs by recording information related to the NFT in the blockchain 91, etc. The information related to the NFT includes, for example, information on the holder of the NFT, the date and time of generation of the NFT, and an object associated with the NFT (an object for which the NFT proves the holder, which is a customized design of the clock object 70 in this embodiment). Note that the NFT management system 90 may transmit and receive information to and from a blockchain provided outside the information processing system 1, and record the information related to the NFT in the blockchain.

[0119] The timing of registering the NFT related to the customized design of the clock object 70 is not particularly limited. For example, the NFT may be registered in response to an additional instruction from the user when the clock object 70 with a customized design is generated using the method of the above embodiment, or when a real-world clock with the same design as the clock object 70 is ordered. When registering an NFT, a registration request for the NFT is transmitted from the information processing device 20 to the server 10. This registration request includes, for example, information on the customized design related to the generated clock object 70, information specifying a part of the customized design to be associated with the NFT and registered (a part or all of the design), and information on the user who will be the owner of the NFT. The process of transmitting the registration request for the NFT to the server 10 corresponds to a "process for registering the NFT in association with the user." The server 10 registers the NFT in the NFT management system 90 based on the received registration request, and records information related to the NFT in the user management data 132 in association with the user.

[0120] FIG. 22 is a diagram showing an example of the contents of the user management data 132 according to the modified example. The user management data 132 in this modified example includes data in the category of "Owned NFT Information" in addition to "User ID" and "Avatar ID". The "Owned NFT Information" includes information related to the NFT held by the user corresponding to the row data. Here, the "Owned NFT Information" includes the sub-items of "NFT ID", "Customized Design ID", and "Target Scope". "NFT ID" is a code that can identify the NFT held by the user corresponding to the row data. The "customized design ID" is a unique code given to each customized design. The storage unit 13 of the server 10 may include a database that can identify the content of the customized design corresponding to the code of the "customized design ID". The "target range" indicates the range of targets to which the NFT is associated among the customized designs of the clock object 70. For example, in FIG. 22, an NFT with an NFT ID of "N033" is registered in association with the bezel and face of the customized design with a design ID of "D2921". Also, an NFT with an NFT ID of "N059" is registered in association with the entire customized design with a design ID of "D3418".

[0121] In customizing the design of the clock object 70 using the method of the above embodiment, restrictions may be imposed on the customization in relation to the customization design for which the NFT is registered. For example, if an NFT associated with part (or all) of the base model design (the design of the clock object to be customized) is registered, customization that changes the part (or all) of the design to which the NFT is registered may not be permitted.

[0122] A flowchart of the customization process in this case is shown in Fig. 23. Fig. 23 corresponds to the customization process in Fig. 18 in which step S212 is added after step S205 and steps S213 and S214 are added after step S211. In step S205 of the customization process shown in Fig. 23, if it is determined that a component has been selected ("YES" in step S205), the CPU 21 determines whether or not the component is one for which modification is not permitted by the registration of an NFT (step S212). If it is determined that the component is not one for which modification is not permitted ("NO" in step S212), the CPU 21 shifts the process to step S206. Also, if it is determined that the component is one for which modification is not permitted ("YES" in step S212), the CPU 21 shifts the process to step S210.

[0123] Furthermore, when the clock object 70 is generated in step S211, the CPU 21 determines whether or not a user operation has been performed to instruct the registration of an NFT (step S213). If it is determined that the user operation has been performed ("YES" in step S213), the CPU 21 transmits the above-mentioned NFT registration request to the server 10 (step S214). If the processing of step S214 is completed, or if it is determined in step S213 that a user operation has not been performed to instruct the registration of an NFT ("NO" in step S213), the CPU 21 ends the customization process.

[0124] In addition, when an NFT associated with a part (or all) of the design of the base model is registered, customization that includes the part (or all) of the design to which the NFT is registered may not be permitted. In other words, for the part (or all) of the design of the base model to which the NFT is registered, a change in design may be forced to a design different from the part (or all). In this case, for example, when it is determined in step S210 of the customization process shown in FIG. 18 that the export button 53 has been operated ("YES" in step S210), a determination step may be executed to determine whether or not the NFT includes a registered design. If it is determined in this determination step that the NFT does not include a registered design, the process proceeds to step S211. Also, if it is determined in this determination step that the NFT includes a registered design, the process proceeds to step S205.

[0125] Furthermore, when duplicate objects 80 are displayed in the virtual store 200 as shown in Fig. 16, a duplicate object 80 of a clock object 70 in which an NFT associated with a part (or all) of the design is registered and a duplicate object 80 of a clock object 70 in which an NFT is not registered may be placed in different areas in the virtual store 200. For example, a clock object 70 in which an NFT is registered may be placed on the upper tier of a two-tier shelf 202 shown in Fig. 16, and a clock object 70 in which an NFT is not registered may be placed on the lower tier.

[0126] (effect) As described above, in the information processing method according to the present embodiment, the CPU 21 as a computer controls the operation of the avatar 40 corresponding to the user in the virtual space 2 in response to the user's operation, displays the virtual store 200 in the virtual space 2, in which the customization IF 50 operated by the avatar 40 is provided inside to customize the clock object 70, on the display unit 315, and when the customization IF 50 is operated by the avatar 40, changes the setting related to the clock object 70 so that the clock object 70 is customized according to the content of the operation. This allows the clock object 70 to be customized in the virtual space 2 according to the user's preferences, the characteristics of the avatar 40, and the like. In addition, by customizing the clock object 70 in response to the avatar 40 operating the customization IF 50 provided in the virtual store 200, the customization can be performed naturally without impairing the sense of immersion in the world view of the virtual space 2.

[0127] Furthermore, the CPU 21 generates a customized clock object 70 in the virtual space 2 in response to a predetermined action of the avatar 40. This allows the customized clock object 70 to be used in the virtual space 2.

[0128] Furthermore, the CPU 21 attaches the generated clock object 70 to a body part of the avatar 40 in accordance with a predetermined movement of the avatar 40, and when the avatar 40 wearing the clock object 70 moves, causes the position and orientation of the clock object 70 in the virtual space 2 to follow the position and orientation of the body part of the avatar 40. This makes it possible to make the avatar 40 look as if it is wearing the customized clock object 70.

[0129] Furthermore, the CPU 21 generates a sample object 60 of the clock object 70 in the virtual store 200, and when the customization IF 50 is operated by the action of the avatar 40, changes the content of the sample object 60 so as to reflect the customization content of the clock object 70 according to the content of the operation. This makes it possible to clearly show the status of customization being performed by the user using the sample object 60.

[0130] Furthermore, the customization IF 50 has a target selection IF 51 for selecting a component to be customized from among the multiple components constituting the clock object 70, and when a certain component from among the multiple components is selected by the target selection IF 51, the CPU 21 changes the orientation of the sample object 60 so that the certain component in the sample object 60 faces the reference direction in the virtual space 2. This makes it possible to clearly show the component to be customized to the user.

[0131] Moreover, the reference direction is a predetermined front direction in the virtual store 200. This allows the user to easily understand the components that are the targets of customization by checking the components that face the front direction.

[0132] The reference direction may be a direction from the position of the sample object 60 to the position of the avatar 40 in the virtual space 2. This makes it easier to view the components to be customized from the first-person perspective (VR screen 3151) of the avatar 40.

[0133] Furthermore, the CPU 21 controls the actions of the multiple avatars 40 corresponding to the multiple users in the virtual space 2 in response to the operations of the multiple users, and when the customization IF 50 is operated by the actions of two or more different avatars 40 among the multiple avatars 40, changes the settings related to the clock object 70 so that customization according to the content of each operation is performed on one clock object 70. This allows multiple users to create a design for one clock object 70 while checking the customization status of components by other users.

[0134] Furthermore, the CPU 21 executes a process for ordering, in the real world, a product having contents corresponding to the customized clock object 70, in response to a predetermined action of the avatar 40. This allows the user to purchase, in the real world, a clock that reflects the contents of the customization in the virtual store 200.

[0135] In addition, in response to the start of production of the ordered watch in the real world, the CPU 21 starts the generation of the linked production watch object in the virtual space 2. This makes it possible to produce an effect in which the production of the watch in the real world and the generation of the linked production watch object in the virtual space 2 are linked to each other.

[0136] Furthermore, in response to the ordered watch being shipped to the user in the real world, the CPU 21 assigns the linked production watch object generated in the virtual space 2 to the avatar 40. This makes it possible to produce an effect in which the shipping of the watch in the real world and the assignment of the linked production watch object to the avatar 40 in the virtual space 2 appear to be linked.

[0137] Furthermore, the CPU 21 executes a process for registering, in association with the user, an NFT associated with a part or all of the design of the customized clock object 70 in response to a predetermined operation by the user. This makes it possible to realize a service that provides the user with an NFT that targets a part or all of the customized design of the clock object 70. This also makes it possible to increase the added value of the virtual store service.

[0138] Furthermore, the CPU 21 controls the actions of the multiple avatars 40 corresponding to the multiple users in the virtual space 2 in response to the operations of the multiple users, and sets the same clock object 70 as the clock object 70 worn by an avatar 40 located in the virtual store 200 among the multiple avatars 40, or the same clock object 70 worn in the virtual store 200 by an avatar 40 that was previously located in the virtual store 200 among the multiple avatars 40, as the target of customization (base model). This makes it possible to customize the design by referring to the clock object 70 worn by another user (avatar 40). For example, if a user likes the design of the clock object 70 worn by another user (avatar 40), the user can easily customize the design to a desired one based on the favorite design.

[0139] Furthermore, when an NFT associated with a part or all of the design of the clock object 70 to be customized is registered, the CPU 21 does not allow customization that changes a part or all of the design of the clock object 70. This makes it possible to protect the design to which the NFT is registered.

[0140] Further, the CPU 21 controls the operation of the multiple avatars 40 corresponding to the multiple users in the virtual space 2 in response to the operations of the multiple users, and generates a duplicate object by duplicating at least one of the clock object 70 worn by the avatar 40 located in the virtual store 200 among the multiple avatars 40 and the clock object 70 worn by the avatar 40 located in the virtual store 200 in the past among the multiple avatars 40, and places it in the virtual store 200, and sets the clock object 70 identical to any of the duplicate objects as the target of customization. This allows customization to be performed using a duplicate object 80 that is close to the design desired by the user as a base model, so that customization to the desired design can be performed more easily. Furthermore, by placing the duplicate object 80 in the virtual store 200, it is possible to provide the user with ideas for customization. Furthermore, the user can grasp design trends from the duplicate object 80.

[0141] Furthermore, the CPU 21 generates duplicate objects 80 by duplicating a predetermined number of clock objects 70 most recently generated in the virtual store 200, places the duplicate objects 80 in the virtual store 200, and targets the clock object 70 that is the same as any of the duplicate objects 80 for customization. This allows the user to grasp the trend in design customization in the virtual store 200 and use it as a reference for their own customization.

[0142] Furthermore, the CPU 21 places the duplicate object 80 of the clock object 70 in which an NFT associated with part or all of the design is registered, and the duplicate object 80 of the clock object 70 in which an NFT is not registered, in different areas from each other in the virtual store 200. This makes it easy to know whether an NFT is registered in association with the design of the duplicate object 80.

[0143] The display unit 315 is provided in the VR headset 31 worn on the user's head, and the CPU 21 displays the virtual store 200 and the customized IF 50 seen from the viewpoint of the avatar 40 in the virtual space 2 on the display. This makes it possible to apply VR to the virtual store service. In other words, the user can experience the virtual store 200 constructed in the virtual space 2 as if it were reality.

[0144] Furthermore, the CPU 21 causes the display unit 315 to display the avatar 40 located within the virtual store 200 together with the virtual store 200. This makes it possible to provide a virtual store service using the third person perspective screen 3152.

[0145] The product object may be a clock object 70. This makes it possible to provide a virtual store service including a service relating to customization of clock designs.

[0146] Moreover, the information processing system 1 according to the present embodiment includes a CPU 21 as a processing unit, and the CPU 21 controls the operation of the avatar 40 corresponding to the user in the virtual space 2 in response to the user's operation, displays the virtual store 200 in the virtual space 2, in which the customization IF 50 operated by the avatar 40 is provided inside to customize the clock object 70, on the display unit 315, and when the customization IF 50 is operated by the avatar 40, changes the setting related to the clock object 70 so that the clock object 70 is customized according to the contents of the operation. This allows the clock object 70 to be customized in the virtual space 2 according to the user's preferences, the characteristics of the avatar 40, and the like. Furthermore, by allowing the avatar 40 to customize the clock object 70 in response to the operation of the customization IF 50 provided in the virtual store 200 by the avatar 40, the customization can be performed naturally without impairing the sense of immersion in the world view of the virtual space 2.

[0147] In addition, the program 231 according to the present embodiment causes the CPU 21 as a computer to execute the following: a process of controlling the operation of the avatar 40 corresponding to the user in the virtual space 2 in response to the user's operation; a process of displaying the virtual store 200 in the virtual space 2, in which the customization IF 50 operated by the avatar 40 is provided inside to customize the clock object 70, on the display unit 315; and a process of changing the settings related to the clock object 70 so that the clock object 70 is customized in response to the content of the operation when the customization IF 50 is operated by the avatar 40. This allows the clock object 70 to be customized in the virtual space 2 in response to the user's preferences, the characteristics of the avatar 40, and the like. In addition, by allowing the avatar 40 to customize the clock object 70 in response to the operation of the customization IF 50 provided in the virtual store 200 by the avatar 40, the customization can be performed naturally without impairing the immersive feeling in the world view of the virtual space 2.

[0148] In the information processing method according to the present embodiment, the CPU 311 of the VR device 30 as the computer of the terminal device displays the virtual store 200 in the virtual space 2 having the customization IF 50 operated by the avatar 40 to customize the clock object 70 on the display unit 315, receives a user operation corresponding to the operation on the customization IF 50 of the avatar 40 in the virtual space 2 via the operation input unit 314, the sensor unit 317, and the controller 32 as the input unit, and displays the clock object 70 customized according to the operation content of the customization IF 50 by the avatar 40 based on the user operation received via the input unit on the display unit 315. This allows the clock object 70 to be customized in the virtual space 2 according to the user's preferences and the characteristics of the avatar 40. In addition, by customizing the clock object 70 according to the avatar 40 operating the customization IF 50 provided in the virtual store 200, the customization can be performed naturally without impairing the immersive feeling in the world view of the virtual space 2.

[0149] (others) The description of the above embodiment is merely an example of the information processing method, the information processing system, and the program according to the present invention, and the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the functions of the information processing device 20 may be integrated into the VR device 30 (for example, the VR headset 31), and the information processing device 20 may be omitted. In this case, the VR device 30 (the VR headset 31) corresponds to the "information processing device" according to the present invention.

[0150] Also, a mode may be adopted in which the user operates the avatar 40 without wearing the VR headset 31. In this case, instead of the VR headset 31, an image of the virtual space 2 is displayed on a normal display (for example, a liquid crystal display included in the output unit 25 of the information processing device 20) provided at a position visible to the user. The screen displayed in this case may be a VR screen 3151 if the VR device 30 can detect the user's movements. Also, a third-person perspective screen 3152 may be displayed instead of the VR screen 3151. For example, a mode may be adopted in which the user operates the controller 32 to move the avatar 40 in the virtual space 2 from a third-person perspective.

[0151] In the above embodiment, after the virtual store service is started, various services and operations are executed by cooperation between the VR device 30 and the information processing device 20, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the virtual store service may be executed by the server 10, which integrates the functions of the information processing device 20, and the VR device 30. In this case, signals output from the operation input unit 324 and the sensor unit 325 of the VR device 30 are transmitted to the communication unit 14 of the server 10 via the communication unit 326. The server 10 controls the operation of the avatar 40 in the virtual store 200 (virtual space 2) in response to the received user operation. That is, the server 10 performs the same process as the information processing device 20 described above, generates image data of the virtual store 200, and transmits it to the VR device 30.

[0152] In the above embodiment, the customization is exemplified by changing the color combination of each component of the clock object 70, but the content of the customization is not limited to this. For example, it may be possible to add a handwritten (or prepared) pattern by the user to the appearance of the component. Also, customization may be possible to change the shape of the component.

[0153] In the above embodiment, the design of the clock object 70 is customized, but the target of customization is not limited to the design. For example, the function of the clock object 70 may be customized.

[0154] Furthermore, the interface for customizing the product object is not limited to the customization IF 50 exemplified in the above embodiment, and may be any interface that can be operated by the avatar 40 .

[0155] Furthermore, the clock object 70 has been exemplified as a merchandise object, but the present invention is not limited to this and can be applied to any merchandise object handled in the virtual space 2.

[0156] In the above description, an example has been disclosed in which the HDD or SSD of the storage unit 23 is used as a computer-readable medium for the program according to the present invention, but the present invention is not limited to this example. As other computer-readable media, information recording media such as flash memory and CD-ROM can be applied. In addition, a carrier wave is also applied to the present invention as a medium for providing data of the program according to the present invention via a communication line.

[0157] Furthermore, it goes without saying that the detailed configurations and detailed operations of each component of the server 10, the information processing device 20, and the VR device 30 in the above embodiment can be modified as appropriate without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

[0158] Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described, the scope of the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, but includes the scope of the invention described in the claims and its equivalents. [Explanation of symbols]

[0159] 1. Information Processing Systems 2. Virtual Space 200 Virtual Stores 201 Pedestal 202 Shelf 10 Server 11 CPU 12 RAM 13 Storage section 131 Programs 132 User Management Data 14 Communications Department 15 Bus 20 Information processing device 21 CPU (processing unit, computer) 22 RAM 23 Memory section 231 Programs 232 Object Data 2321 Customized Data 24 Operation input section 25 Output section 26 Communications Department 27 Bus 30 VR equipment (terminal device) 31 VR Headset 311 CPU 312 RAM 313 Storage section 3131 Program 314 Operation input section (input section) 315 Display section 3151 VR screen 3152 Third Person View Screen 316 Sound output section 317 Sensor section (input section) 318 Communications Department 319 Bus 32 Controller (input section) 40 Avatar 40L left hand 40R right hand 50 Customized IF (Interface) 51 Target Selection IF 511 Bezel Icon 512 Face Icon 513 Short Band Icon 514 Long Band Icon 515 Ring icon 516 Buckle Icon 52 Color Selection IF 521 Color Palette 53 Export button 60 Sample Objects 61 Bezel 62 Face 63 Short Band 64 Long Band 65 Yu-Ring 66 Buckle 70 Clock object (product object) 80, 80a-80d Duplicate objects 90 NFT Management Systems 91 Blockchain L Virtual Line P Pointer

Claims

1. 1. A computer-implemented information processing method, comprising: Controlling the movement of an avatar corresponding to the user in a virtual space in response to an operation by the user; displaying a virtual store that handles product objects in the virtual space on a display unit; executing a process for ordering a product in the real world that corresponds to the product object in response to a predetermined movement of the avatar in the virtual space; In response to the start of production of the ordered product in the real world, generation of the product object in the virtual space is started. Information processing methods.

2. In response to the ordered product being shipped to the user in the real world, the product object generated in the virtual space is assigned to the avatar. The information processing method according to claim 1 .

3. The product object is controlled so that it can be held or worn by the avatar inside and outside the virtual store. The information processing method according to claim 1 .

4. When an interface provided inside the virtual store is operated by the avatar, a setting related to the product object is changed so that the product object is customized in accordance with the content of the operation. The information processing method according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. generating a second product object in the virtual space in response to a second predetermined action of the avatar; The information processing method according to claim 4.

6. The second product object is controlled so that it can be held or worn by the avatar only inside the virtual store. The information processing method according to claim 5 .

7. displaying the avatar located in the virtual store together with the virtual store on the display unit; The information processing method according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

8. The product object is a wristwatch object. The information processing method according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

9. Controlling the movement of an avatar corresponding to the user in a virtual space in response to an operation by the user; displaying a virtual store that handles product objects in the virtual space on a display unit; executing a process for ordering a product in the real world that corresponds to the product object in response to a predetermined movement of the avatar in the virtual space; In response to the start of production of the ordered product in the real world, generation of the product object in the virtual space is started. An information processing system including a processing unit.

10. On the computer, A process of controlling the movement of an avatar corresponding to a user in a virtual space in response to an operation by the user; displaying a virtual store that handles product objects in the virtual space on a display unit; executing a process for ordering a product in the real world that corresponds to the product object in response to a predetermined action of the avatar in the virtual space; a process of starting generation of the product object in the virtual space in response to the start of production of the ordered product in the real world; A program that executes the following.

11. An information processing method executed by a computer of a terminal device having a display unit, displaying a virtual store that handles product objects in the virtual space on the display unit; executing a process for ordering a product in the real world that corresponds to the product object in response to a predetermined movement of the avatar in the virtual space; In response to the start of production of the ordered product in the real world, generation of the product object in the virtual space is started. Information processing methods.

Images