Information processing system, information processing method, program and information processing apparatus

Abstract

To provide an information processing system, an information processing method, a program and an information processing apparatus which can realize a provision service of a music instrument with high user satisfaction.SOLUTION: An information processing system according to an embodiment comprises a request information acquisition unit, a proposal unit and a reception unit. The request information acquisition unit acquires request information of a user regarding a music instrument. The proposal unit selects one or more candidate music instruments corresponding to the acquired request information, and proposes the selected one or more candidate music instruments to the user together with each performance sound data of the one or more candidate music instruments. The reception unit accepts the selection of a music instrument the user wants to offer from the one or more candidate music instruments inputted from the user.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an information processing system, an information processing method, a program, and an information processing device that can be applied to a musical instrument provision service. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a technique aimed at improving user satisfaction in a service that provides products through regular purchases or subscriptions. Patent document 2 discloses a technology that allows users to easily specify the tile carpet they wish to receive on a subscription basis, and aims to provide the appropriate tile carpet that meets the user's wishes at the appropriate time. Patent Document 3 discloses a technology aimed at selling cosmetics and health foods online via a network, which is made to order and best suits a user's skin condition and health condition. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2020-194363 A [Patent Document 2] Patent Publication No. 2022-154835 [Patent Document 3] JP 2002-251532 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In the service of providing musical instruments, improving user satisfaction is also an important issue.

[0005] In view of the above circumstances, one object of the present invention is to provide an information processing system, an information processing method, a program, and an information processing device that are capable of realizing a musical instrument provision service that provides high user satisfaction. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In order to achieve the above object, an information processing system according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a request information acquisition unit, a proposal unit, and a reception unit. The request information acquisition unit acquires user request information regarding a musical instrument. The suggestion unit selects one or more candidate instruments corresponding to the acquired request information, and suggests the one or more selected candidate instruments to the user together with data on the performance sounds of each of the one or more candidate instruments. The reception unit receives a selection of a desired instrument that the user wishes to provide from among the one or more candidate instruments, which is input by the user.

[0007] An information processing method according to one aspect of the present invention is an information processing method executed by a computer system, and includes acquiring user request information regarding a musical instrument. One or more candidate instruments corresponding to the acquired request information are selected, and the selected one or more candidate instruments are proposed to the user together with data on the performance sounds of each of the one or more candidate instruments. A selection of a desired instrument that is desired to be provided from the one or more candidate instruments input by the user is accepted.

[0008] A program according to one embodiment of the present invention causes a computer system to acquire user request information regarding musical instruments, select one or more candidate instruments corresponding to the acquired request information, propose the one or more selected candidate instruments to the user along with data on the performance sounds of each of the one or more candidate instruments, and accept a selection of a desired instrument that the user wishes to be provided from the one or more candidate instruments, input by the user.

[0009] An information processing device according to an aspect of the present invention includes the request information acquisition unit, the proposal unit, and the reception unit. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of a musical instrument selection support system according to a first embodiment; [Diagram 2] 4 is a flowchart showing an example of basic operations of a user terminal and a support server in the instrument selection support system. [Diagram 3] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a questionnaire for a user to input request information. [Figure 4] 1 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a presentation screen of one or more candidate instruments displayed on a user terminal. FIG. [Diagram 5] 10A to 10C are schematic diagrams showing an example of parts constituting a snare drum in the second embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of a musical instrument selection support system according to a third embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of a musical instrument selection support system according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 8] Fig. 13 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of a musical instrument selection support system according to a fifth embodiment Fig. 14 is a schematic diagram showing an example of shooting guide information. [Figure 9] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of a computer that can be used as a user terminal, a support server, and a subscription management server. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0011] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0012] <First embodiment> [Instrument selection support system] 1 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of an instrument selection support system according to a first embodiment of the present invention. The instrument selection support system 1 can support a user 2 who uses the system in selecting an instrument that suits his or her taste.

[0013] The "instrument that matches the taste" of the user 2 is typically an instrument whose playing sound matches the user's taste. However, the instrument selection support system 1 can be constructed to accommodate various "tastes" of the user 2, such as an instrument that is often used in a favorite music genre, an instrument used by a favorite musician, an instrument whose appearance matches the user's taste, an instrument whose manufacturing conditions such as the date of manufacture and materials match the user's taste, etc.

[0014] In this description, a snare drum (see FIG. 4, etc.) whose playing sound matches the taste of the user 2 is taken as an example of the "musical instrument that matches the taste of the user 2." Of course, the musical instrument selection support system 1 can be applied to any other musical instrument.

[0015] As shown in FIG. 1, in this embodiment, the instrument selection support system 1 includes a user terminal 3 and a support server 4.

[0016] The user terminal 3 and the support server 4 are communicatively connected via a network 5. The network 5 is constructed, for example, by the Internet or a wide area communication line network. Alternatively, any WAN (Wide Area Network) or LAN (Local Area Network) may be used, and the protocol for constructing the network 5 is not limited.

[0017] The user terminal 3 and the support server 4 each have hardware necessary for a computer, such as a processor such as a CPU, a GPU, or a DSP, a memory such as a ROM or a RAM, and a storage device such as a HDD (see FIG. 9). The processor loads a program according to the present technology stored in the storage unit or memory into the RAM and executes the program, thereby executing the information processing method according to the present technology (the method of supporting musical instrument selection).

[0018] In the example shown in Fig. 1, a smartphone equipped with a touch panel 6 is used as the user terminal 3. The touch panel 6 functions as a display unit and an input unit. Various image information such as icons, text, a GUI (Graphical User Interface), and captured images are displayed on the touch panel 6. In addition, VR display that displays VR (Virtual Reality) objects and AR display that displays AR (Augmented Reality) objects superimposed on real objects are also possible.

[0019] The user 2 can perform various touch operations, text input operations, and the like, on the GUI, icons, and the like displayed on the touch panel 6. This allows the user 2 to input various pieces of information.

[0020] In addition, the smartphone used as the user terminal 3 is equipped with various devices such as a camera (imaging function), a microphone (audio input function), a speaker (audio output function), a GPS (position detection function), and an IMU (Inertial Measurement Unit) sensor (motion detection function).

[0021] In the present disclosure, an image includes both a still image and a moving image (video). In the present embodiment, the imaging function of the user terminal 3 makes it possible to capture a moving image including sound information as a captured image.

[0022] The computer used as the user terminal 3 is not limited to a smartphone, and any configuration may be adopted. For example, a tablet terminal, an HMD (Head Mounted Display) such as AR glasses or VR glasses, a PC, etc. may also be used.

[0023] The support server 4 is configured to realize the instrument selection support system 1, and may be implemented by any computer such as a PC.

[0024] 1, in this embodiment, a database (DB) 7 that can be accessed by the support server 4 is constructed. The DB 7 functions as a storage unit and stores various information related to the instrument selection support system 1. The DB 7 may be constructed in a storage device or the like provided in the support server 4, or may be constructed in a storage device configured outside the support server 4.

[0025] In this embodiment, an instrument DB is constructed in DB 7. The instrument DB includes various instrument data that can be proposed to user 2. For example, the instrument data includes an ID, instrument identification information that enables user 2 to identify each instrument, and data on the performance sounds of each instrument (performance sound data). The instrument identification information includes, for example, an image of each instrument, text information such as the model and product number of each instrument, and the like.

[0026] The performance sound data of each musical instrument is, for example, recorded data of the performance sound when the musical instrument is actually played. Of course, the recorded data may be appropriately processed so that the user 2 can hear the performance sound data more clearly. Furthermore, sound data that is almost identical to the performance sound when the musical instrument is actually played may be electronically synthesized and created.

[0027] Any other information relating to the instrument may be stored as instrument data.

[0028] [Functional configuration of each device] 1, in this embodiment, the processor of the user terminal 3 executes a predetermined program to configure the following functional blocks: a request information input receiving unit 8, a candidate instrument presenting unit 9, and a desired instrument selection receiving unit 10. Of course, dedicated hardware such as an IC (integrated circuit) may be used to realize the functional blocks.

[0029] The desired information input receiving unit 8 receives input of desired information related to an instrument by the user 2. "Desired information" includes any request related to an instrument desired by the user 2. For example, an image of an instrument desired by the user 2, performance sound data desired by the user 2, etc. may be input as desired information.

[0030] In this embodiment, the input of information by user 2 to user terminal 3 and the output (presentation) of information from user terminal 3 to user 2 are not limited to the input and output of information via touch panel 6, but may also be information input by voice input, or information input and output in a conversational format between user 2 and user terminal 3.

[0031] The desired information input receiving unit 8 executes various processes for enabling the input of desired information by the user 2. For example, various processes are executed, such as controlling the operation of the touch panel 6, speaker (audio output device), microphone (audio input device), etc., generating a GUI for inputting the desired information, generating audio data to be output from the speaker, and managing the desired information input via the touch panel 6 or microphone.

[0032] The candidate instrument presenting unit 9 presents one or more candidate instruments selected by the support server 4 to the user 2. The one or more candidate instruments are presented to the user 2 together with the performance sound data of each of the candidate instruments.

[0033] The candidate instrument presenting unit 9 executes various processes for presenting one or more candidate instruments to the user 2. For example, various processes are executed, such as controlling the operation of the touch panel 6, speaker (audio output device), microphone (audio input device), etc., generating a presentation screen displaying a list of images of the candidate instruments, and outputting performance sound data of each candidate instrument.

[0034] The provided instrument selection receiving unit 10 receives a selection of a provided instrument that the user 2 wishes to provide from one or more candidate instruments, which is input by the user 2.

[0035] The provided instrument selection receiving unit 10 executes various processes to realize the reception of the selection of a provided instrument by the user 2. For example, various processes such as operation control of the touch panel 6, the speaker (audio output device), the microphone (audio input device), etc. are executed.

[0036] 1, in this embodiment, the processor of the support server 4 executes a predetermined program to configure the following functional blocks: a request information acquisition unit 11, a candidate instrument selection unit 12, and a desired instrument provision determination unit 13. Of course, dedicated hardware such as an IC (integrated circuit) may be used to realize the functional blocks.

[0037] The desired information acquisition unit 11 acquires desired information of the user 2 .

[0038] In the present disclosure, acquisition of information includes not only receiving the information from another device, but also generating the information by performing analysis, extraction, estimation, etc. That is, in the present embodiment, acquisition of requested information by the requested information acquisition unit 11 includes both receiving requested information transmitted from the user terminal 3 and generating a different type of requested information by performing analysis, etc. on the received requested information.

[0039] The candidate instrument selection unit 12 selects one or more candidate instruments corresponding to the acquired request information. The candidate instrument selection unit 12 selects one or more candidate instruments that are close to the request of the user 2, and reads out instrument data for each of the selected one or more candidate instruments from the instrument DB in the DB 7. As described above, each of the one or more instrument data includes instrument identification information (such as an image of the instrument or text information on the model) and performance sound data.

[0040] The provided instrument determination unit 13 determines a provided instrument based on the selection information of the provided instrument received by the user terminal 3. The information of the determined provided instrument is stored in the DB 7 and managed.

[0041] Any technology (algorithm, etc.) may be used to execute the processing of the user terminal 3, which includes accepting input of requested information, presenting candidate instruments, accepting selection of instruments desired to be provided, etc., and the processing of the support server 4, which includes acquiring requested information, selecting candidate instruments, determining instruments desired to be provided, etc.

[0042] For example, any machine learning algorithm may be used, such as a DNN (Deep Neural Network), an RNN (Recurrent Neural Network), a CNN (Convolutional Neural Network), etc. For example, by using an AI (artificial intelligence) that performs deep learning, each process can be executed with high accuracy.

[0043] For example, in the request information acquisition unit 11 of the support server 4, a trained learning model may be constructed and used that has undergone machine learning to input request information (e.g., performance sound data or performance video) received from the user terminal 3 and output different types of request information (such as the instrument model name or performance sound characteristics).

[0044] Furthermore, a trained learning model that performs machine learning to input the desired information and output the candidate instruments may be constructed and used in the candidate instrument selection unit 12. By using these learning models, it becomes possible to select candidate instruments that sufficiently correspond to the desired information with high accuracy.

[0045] As a learning method for a learning model, for example, the backpropagation method is used. The backpropagation method is a learning method that is commonly used for training neural networks. A neural network is a model that originally imitates the neural circuits of the human brain, and is a model with a layer structure consisting of three types of layers: an input layer, an intermediate layer (hidden layer), and an output layer.

[0046] Neural networks with many hidden layers are called deep neural networks, and the deep learning technology used to train them is known as a model that can learn complex patterns hidden in large amounts of data. Backpropagation is one such learning method, and is often used, for example, in training CNNs, which are used to recognize images and videos.

[0047] In addition, as a hardware structure for realizing such machine learning, a neurochip / neuromorphic chip incorporating the concept of neural networks can be used.

[0048] The algorithm for learning the learning model is not limited, and any machine learning algorithm may be used. For example, machine learning algorithms include supervised learning, unsupervised learning, semi-supervised learning, reinforcement learning, inverse reinforcement learning, active learning, transfer learning, etc. In addition, machine learning models such as HMM (Hidden Markov Model) and SVM (Support Vector Machine) may be used.

[0049] A learning block (learning unit) for learning the learning model may be configured in the user terminal 3 or the support server 4. Alternatively, the learning block (learning unit) may be configured in a computer different from the user terminal 3 or the support server 4, and the learned learning model after learning has been executed may be installed in the user terminal 3 or the support server 4. Besides, the specific configuration of the learning model and the learning block (learning unit) for learning the learning model is not limited.

[0050] The application of the machine learning algorithm may be performed for any process in the present disclosure. In other words, a process using machine learning may be performed for any process described in the present disclosure.

[0051] Furthermore, the method for extracting various information such as request information from the photographed image of the musical instrument is not limited, and any technology (algorithm) may be used. For example, any image recognition technology such as matching processing using a model image of an object, edge detection, projective transformation, etc. may be used. Skeleton estimation (bone estimation) may also be used. Existing libraries with functions such as image processing and machine learning built externally may also be used.

[0052] Any machine learning algorithm may be used to extract information from the captured image, for example, semantic segmentation may be performed on the image information to determine the type of object for each pixel in the image.

[0053] There are no limitations on the method for extracting various pieces of information such as request information from sound data such as musical instrument performance sound data, and any technique may be used.

[0054] In this embodiment, the instrument selection support system 1 corresponds to an embodiment of the information processing system according to the present invention. In this embodiment, the request information input receiving unit 8 of the user terminal 3 and the request information acquiring unit 11 of the support server 4 realize a request information acquiring unit according to the present invention that acquires the user's request information regarding instruments.

[0055] In addition, the candidate instrument presentation unit 9 of the user terminal 3 and the candidate instrument selection unit 12 of the support server 4 realize a suggestion unit according to the present invention that selects one or more candidate instruments corresponding to the acquired request information and suggests the selected one or more candidate instruments to the user together with data on the performance sounds of each of the one or more candidate instruments.

[0056] In addition, the instrument provided selection receiving unit 10 of the user terminal 3 and the instrument provided determination unit 13 of the support server 4 realize a receiving unit according to the present invention that receives the selection of an instrument provided from one or more candidate instruments input by the user.

[0057] Furthermore, each of the user terminal 3 and the support server 4 constituting the instrument selection support system 1 functions as an embodiment of an information processing device including a request information acquisition unit, a suggestion unit, and a reception unit according to the present invention.

[0058] Furthermore, a computer equipped with both the functions of the user terminal 3 and the support server 4 may be configured as an embodiment of the information processing device according to the present invention. For example, the user terminal 3 may be equipped with the functions of the support server 4. In this case, the user terminal 3 realizes an instrument selection support system, which is an information processing system according to the present invention.

[0059] FIG. 2 is a flowchart showing an example of basic operations of the user terminal 3 and the support server 4 in the instrument selection support system 1. As shown in FIG.

[0060] The desired information input receiving unit 8 of the user terminal 3 receives the desired information input by the user 2 (step 101).

[0061] For example, the user 2 downloads an application (application program) for using the instrument selection support system 1 to the user terminal 3. For example, the user 2 inputs information such as an ID and a password to create an account for using the instrument selection support system 1. Of course, creating an account may not be necessary.

[0062] The user 2 starts an application for using the instrument selection support system 1. Then, the user selects a desired information input mode and inputs desired information about the instrument he or she desires via an input screen (GUI) for inputting desired information.

[0063] The specific form for inputting the desired information is not limited, and any form may be adopted, such as text input, voice input, questionnaire input (information input by questionnaire), etc. Furthermore, the method and GUI, etc. for the user 2 to input the desired information are not limited, and may be designed arbitrarily.

[0064] As shown in FIG. 1, the received request information is transmitted to the support server 4 via the network 5 (step 102).

[0065] The requested information is acquired by the requested information acquisition unit 11 of the support server 4 (step 103). In this embodiment, the requested information transmitted from the user terminal 3 is received, and different types of requested information are generated based on the received requested information. Of course, only one of the requested information reception and the requested information generation may be executed.

[0066] The candidate instrument selection unit 12 of the support server 4 selects one or more candidate instruments corresponding to the request information. Then, instrument data for each of the one or more selected candidate instruments (candidate instrument data) is read from the instrument DB and transmitted to the user terminal via the network 5 (step 104). The candidate instrument data includes instrument identification information (which in this embodiment includes an image of the candidate instrument) and performance sound data.

[0067] The candidate instrument presenting unit 9 of the user terminal 3 displays images of one or more candidate instruments selected by the support server 4 on the touch panel 6. The candidate instrument presenting unit 9 also outputs the performance sounds of each candidate instrument through the speaker (step 105).

[0068] The provided instrument selection receiving unit 10 of the user terminal 3 receives a selection of a provided instrument from one or more candidate instruments input by the user 2 (step 106). The provided instrument selection receiving unit 10 also transmits selection information indicating the selected provided instrument to the support server 4 (step 107).

[0069] The provided instrument determination unit 13 of the support server 4 determines the provided instrument based on the selection information transmitted from the user terminal 3 .

[0070] [User input of request information] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a questionnaire for the user 2 to input desired information.

[0071] The request information that User 2 can input is not limited, and includes any request regarding the musical instrument desired by User 2. The request information includes requests regarding the characteristics of the performance sound of the musical instrument desired by User 2. For example, it is possible for User 2 to input request information for each of the following evaluation items (characteristics) regarding the characteristics of the performance sound (snare sound) of a snare drum.

[0072] It is possible to input desired information regarding any evaluation item that is expressed as the characteristics of the performance sound, such as "brightness," "volume," "sustain," "attack," "response," "thickness," "delicacy," etc.

[0073] In the example shown in FIG. 3, a questionnaire 15 is displayed with a heading such as "Please enter your favorite snare sound." In the questionnaire 15, five rating buttons 16, from 1 to 5, are provided for each of the above evaluation items related to the characteristics of the snare sound. By appropriately selecting one of the rating buttons 16 from 1 to 5 for each evaluation item, the user 2 can input information about his / her desired snare sound as request information.

[0074] For example, user 2 can input numerical values ​​for each item such as "brightness=5", "volume=3", "sustain=3", "attack=3", "response=4", "thickness=4", and "delicacy=1" as desired information. In the example shown in Fig. 3, by performing a predetermined touch operation such as a scroll operation, evaluation items other than "brightness", "volume", and "sustain" can be displayed on touch panel 6, and the desired information can be input as numerical values.

[0075] When the evaluation button 16 shown in FIG. 3 is selected, a sample of a snare sound corresponding to the value of each currently selected evaluation item may be output to the user 2.

[0076] For example, in constructing the instrument selection support system 1, evaluation criteria for snare sounds are established in advance. For example, standard evaluation criteria are established for each evaluation item such as "brightness," "volume," "sustain," "attack," "response," "thickness," "delicacy," etc. The method for establishing the evaluation criteria is not limited, and the evaluation criteria may be established freely based on various parameters related to sounds such as frequency bands, attack curves, and decay curves.

[0077] Based on the established evaluation criteria, sample sound data is created according to the numerical values ​​of each evaluation item. The sample sound data may be created based on the actual performance sound of a snare drum, or may be created electronically.

[0078] By outputting sample sounds corresponding to the numerical values ​​of each evaluation item input by User 2, User 2 can grasp the snare sound corresponding to the numerical values ​​of each evaluation item input by himself / herself. Then, by appropriately changing the numerical values ​​of each evaluation item, he / she can further pursue the snare sound he / she desires.

[0079] Furthermore, even a user 2 who does not have much knowledge about each evaluation item such as "brightness," "volume," "sustain," "attack," "response," "thickness," and "delicateness" can intuitively arrive at a snare sound that he or she likes, demonstrating high usability. Of course, explanations of each evaluation item may be displayed as appropriate. For example, sample sounds may be output that allow the user to compare two sounds, such as "this is a bright sound and this is a dark sound."

[0080] In addition, in terms of evaluation items such as "brightness," "volume," "sustain," "attack," "response," "thickness," and "delicacy," User 2 may be able to manipulate these parameters on the application to create the snare sound he or she desires.

[0081] For example, user 2 selects snare sound mix mode. Then, operation buttons such as faders are displayed for each evaluation item (evaluation parameter). A sample sound of a snare sound is output in response to fader operation for each evaluation item (evaluation parameter). For example, user 2 performs a mix operation by slightly increasing "brightness" and slightly decreasing "sustain" by operating the faders.

[0082] In this snare sound mix mode, by mixing while listening to the actual sample sounds, it becomes possible to achieve the snare sound that one desires. Also, even User 2 who is not familiar with the unique expression of drums (evaluation items such as "sustain") can easily find the snare drum that he / she likes.

[0083] Other examples of desired information that can be input by user 2 include the following information. Favorite genres: "Rock," "Pops," "Jazz," "Metal," "Hard Rock," "Funk," "Ska," "Chanson," "Blues," "Enka," etc. Favorite musician: "Name of musician," "Name of band," "Name of symphony orchestra," etc. Appearance of the instrument: "color", "shape", etc. Information about the making of the instrument: "date of manufacture", "materials", etc. Any other information about the instrument can be input as desired information.

[0084] For example, various questionnaires for inputting desired information are generated and output by the desired information input receiving unit 8. Responses to the questionnaires are input by the user 2. Response information to the questionnaires is input as desired information and is received by the desired information input receiving unit 8.

[0085] Alternatively, the desired information may be input by voice input, or in a conversational format between the user 2 and the user terminal 3. Alternatively, performance sound data desired by the user 2 may be input as a request regarding the characteristics of the performance sound. Furthermore, a video of an instrument that shows the exterior of the instrument desired by the user 2, data of a song being played by a favorite musician, a video of a performance by a favorite musician, etc. may be input as the desired information.

[0086] Various questions regarding the needs of the user 2 may be output from the user terminal 3 to the user 2. For example, questions that a clerk in an actual musical instrument store would ask a customer may be output from the user terminal 3. For example, by searching for questions that musical instrument store clerks often ask customers and including them as questionnaire items, it is possible to use questions that are effective for finding out the needs of the user 2 in the musical instrument selection support system 1.

[0087] [Select a candidate instrument] Assume that the desired information is obtained by the desired information acquisition unit 11 of the support server 4, which acquires numerical values ​​for each evaluation item of the snare sound, such as "brightness," "volume," "sustain," "attack," "response," "thickness," and "delicacy." The candidate instrument selection unit 12 of the support server 4 selects, as one or more candidate instruments, snare drums that can produce performance sounds that correspond to the numerical values ​​of the evaluation items.

[0088] In this embodiment, for each of a number of possible snare drums, evaluation values ​​are set for each evaluation item, such as "brightness," "volume," "sustain," "attack," "response," "thickness," and "delicacy," based on evaluation criteria that have been established in advance. That is, evaluation values ​​for each evaluation item that can be input as request information are set for each snare drum. These evaluation values ​​are stored as instrument data in the instrument DB.

[0089] The candidate instrument selection unit 12 compares the numerical values ​​of each evaluation item acquired as the desired information with the evaluation values ​​of each evaluation item stored as the instrument data, and selects, as a candidate instrument, a snare drum having an evaluation value set close to the numerical value of the desired information.

[0090] As a method for selecting candidate instruments, for example, the least squares method can be used. That is, the squares of the differences between the numerical values ​​of each evaluation item (request information) and a preset evaluation value are all multiplied. The snare drum with the smallest multiplied value is selected as the candidate instrument. By using the least squares method, it is possible to select a candidate instrument that corresponds to the request information with a simple calculation. Of course, the method is not limited to the least squares method, and any method (algorithm) may be used.

[0091] As the desired information of User 2, it may be possible to select an evaluation item that is particularly important among the evaluation items of "brightness," "volume," "sustain," "attack," "response," "thickness," and "delicacy." For example, it may be possible to input an indication that the evaluation item "brightness" is important and a snare drum with similar "brightness" is desired, or an indication that the evaluation item "attack" is important and a snare drum with similar "attack" is desired.

[0092] When an evaluation item that is considered important is input, the candidate instruments are selected so that the evaluation item that is considered important is given priority. For example, when the least squares method described above is used, a weighting (coefficient) is appropriately added to the evaluation item that is considered important and calculation is performed. For example, for the evaluation item that is considered important, a weighting (coefficient) according to the importance is added to the square of the difference between the inputted numerical value (request information) and a preset evaluation value, and multiplication is performed. As a result, for the evaluation item that is considered important, a snare drum having an evaluation value close to the numerical value (request information) is preferentially selected as a candidate instrument. The importance of each evaluation item can be input by the user 2, and a weighting (coefficient) according to the importance may be added. As a result, it is possible to select a candidate instrument that corresponds to the request with even higher accuracy, and it is possible to improve the satisfaction level of the user 2.

[0093] It is also possible to comprehensively use the numerical values ​​of each evaluation item of the snare sound and other desired information such as information on a favorite genre and information on a favorite musician to select a candidate instrument corresponding to the evaluation information. For example, a trained learning model may be constructed and used by performing machine learning to input multiple types of desired information and output a corresponding instrument.

[0094] The audio data, video, etc. input by the user 2 as the desired information are analyzed, and the analysis results are generated as further desired information. Then, it is also possible to select candidate instruments based on the further generated desired information.

[0095] For example, sound data of a snare sound is analyzed, and evaluation values ​​(five-level evaluation value) for each evaluation item such as "brightness," "volume," "sustain," "attack," "response," "thickness," and "delicacy" are set based on evaluation criteria established in advance. Then, based on the evaluation values ​​for each item that have been set, candidate instruments are selected by the least squares method or the like. Of course, this is not limited to the above, and for example, snare sound components and the like are extracted from a desired musical sound input by user 2 through analysis processing such as sound source separation, and a snare drum that produces a sound similar to the components is selected as a candidate instrument. Such processing is also possible.

[0096] A recommendation level for the user 2 may be set for one or more selected candidate instruments. For example, the closer a candidate instrument is to the desired information, the higher the recommendation level is set. For example, the smaller the integrated result of the least squares method is for each evaluation item related to the snare sound, the higher the recommendation level is set for the candidate instrument. Of course, the recommendation level may be set based on the degree of match with other desired information such as genre or music.

[0097] It is also possible to propose information on candidate instruments corresponding to the desired information to the user 2. For example, in response to the desired information on a bass drum, configuration information of the instrument such as an optimal diameter, depth, etc. may be proposed.

[0098] [Suggestions for candidate instruments] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on the user terminal 3 presenting one or more candidate instruments.

[0099] In the example shown in Fig. 4, a presentation screen 18 is displayed with a heading such as "We recommend this snare drum!". On this presentation screen 18, an image of the selected candidate instrument 19 and the model name ("XXX") are displayed side by side. In addition, a sound button 20 and a decision button 21 are provided for each candidate instrument 19.

[0100] The user 2 selects a sound button 20 provided for each candidate instrument 19. Then, a snare sound, which is the performance sound of the candidate instrument 19, is output to the user 2. The user 2 can select the instrument he / she wishes to provide while checking the performance sounds of each candidate instrument 19.

[0101] The candidate instruments 19 displayed on the presentation screen 18 are selected based on the request information input by the user 2. Therefore, all the candidate instruments 19 are snare drums close to the preference of the user 2. The user 2 can select an important snare drum that he / she will have a deep attachment to from among the multiple snare drums that match his / her preference.

[0102] When the user 2 finds an instrument that he / she thinks is suitable for him / her, he / she selects the decision button 21 provided on each candidate instrument 19. This causes the provided instrument selection receiving unit 10 of the user side terminal 3 to receive the input of the selection of the provided instrument, and the selection information is transmitted to the support server 4. Then, the provided instrument determining unit 13 of the support server 4 determines the provided instrument.

[0103] One or more candidate instruments 19 may be proposed in a form that reflects the recommendation level set by the candidate instrument selection unit 12. For example, the candidate instruments 19 may be displayed in order of recommendation level on the presentation screen 18 shown in Fig. 4. Of course, information indicating the recommendation level may be displayed for each candidate instrument 19. For example, the recommendation level may be displayed as a numerical value, or text such as "This snare drum is the most recommended!" may be displayed.

[0104] 4 may be provided with a confirmation button for confirming detailed information about each candidate instrument 19. When the confirmation button is selected, for example, the screen is moved to a detailed display screen that displays detailed information about the candidate instrument 19. Then, detailed information about the candidate instrument 19, such as the manufacturing date, the genre in which the snare drum is often used, and information about the musical instrument that regularly uses the snare drum, is displayed on the detailed display screen.

[0105] The evaluation value of each evaluation item of the snare sound may be displayed as detailed information of the candidate instrument 19. This enables the user 2 to compare the numerical value of each evaluation item that he / she inputted as the desired information with the evaluation value of each evaluation item set for the candidate instrument, and enables the user 2 to search in more detail for the instrument that is best suited to him / her.

[0106] Also, a change / update button for candidate instruments may be provided on presentation screen 18 shown in Fig. 4. When the change / update button for candidate instruments is selected, another candidate instrument is selected by candidate instrument selection unit 12. Instrument data (including performance sound data) of the selected candidate instrument is transmitted again to user terminal 3 and displayed on candidate instrument presentation screen 18. In this way, it may be possible to change / update candidate instruments 19. This allows user 2 to widely search for an instrument that is perfect for him / her.

[0107] A button for re-inputting the desired information may be provided on the presentation screen 18 shown in Fig. 4. When the button for re-inputting the desired information is selected, the questionnaire 15 shown in Fig. 3 is re-displayed. At that time, the numerical value most recently input by the user 2 is displayed with the numerical value reflected as it is.

[0108] User 2 re-inputs the numerical values ​​for each evaluation item, considering, for example, whether he / she would like it to be more "bright" or whether the "sustain" can be smaller. The numerical values ​​for each evaluation item that have been re-input are transmitted to support server 4, and a candidate instrument is selected again. The instrument data (including performance sound data) of the selected candidate instrument is transmitted again to user terminal 3, and displayed on candidate instrument presentation screen 18. In this way, it may be possible to update the candidate instruments by re-inputting the evaluation items. This allows user 2 to further explore the instrument that is best suited to him / her.

[0109] As described above, in the instrument selection support system 1 according to this embodiment, one or more candidate instruments are selected based on the instrument-related information of the user 2, and are proposed to the user 2 together with performance sound data. This allows the user 2 to select the desired instrument while checking the performance sounds of the one or more candidate instruments. As a result, it is possible to realize an instrument provision service that provides high user satisfaction.

[0110] When User 2 purchases an instrument, it may be difficult for him / her to select an instrument that is best suited to him / her. In particular, when purchasing an instrument for the first time (first purchase), he / she may be unsure of which instrument to select.

[0111] The reasons why choosing an instrument can be difficult include the following: I'm not confident in my judgment (I want someone to give me advice). I don't have a set standard for sound, so I don't really understand the differences between instruments. There are limited opportunities to try out different instruments (in some cases none at all), so it is difficult to compare them thoroughly. The descriptions of the instruments use unfamiliar words, making it difficult to visualize them (bright, warm, sharp, responsive, etc.) I can't put my preferences into words.

[0112] For example, even if you look at a catalog of musical instruments, the characteristics and appeal of each instrument are often not fully conveyed, and you may be left with doubts and worries about whether or not this snare drum is really the best fit for you.

[0113] Also, when browsing the Internet, it is possible to come across an article such as "Top 3 snare drums." However, it is not clear whether the snare drum recommended is the best for you.

[0114] The instrument selection support system 1 according to this embodiment is capable of proposing candidate instruments to the user 2 in accordance with the request information of the user 2. In other words, it is possible to obtain various requests from each user 2, such as preferences, desired sound characteristics, and favorite genres, and provide feedback to suggest candidate instruments that match or are close to the requests.

[0115] As a result, it becomes possible to suggest the most suitable instrument for each user 2, and highly accurate personalization can be achieved. For example, the accuracy of personalization is extremely high compared to when an instrument is simply selected from a catalog or an article such as "Top 3 snare drums."

[0116] For User 2, the recommended instrument based on sufficient evidence is proposed, so that User 2 can select and purchase the instrument that is best suited to him / her with peace of mind and confidence. This confidence can also have a positive effect on the performance activities after the purchase of the instrument.

[0117] Of course, it is possible to suggest not only instruments that User 2 already knows, but also instruments that User 2 has never heard of before. User 2 can have the experience of discovering "I didn't know there was such an instrument," and can then search further for instruments that suit his or her tastes.

[0118] By implementing the instrument selection support system 1 of this embodiment, it is possible to realize an instrument provision system that provides high satisfaction to user 2, by enabling two-way communication between companies that manufacture and sell instruments and user 2, rather than communication that is nearly one-way from the companies to user 2.

[0119] For example, if you want to buy a bass drum, even if you go to a music store, it may be difficult to try out various types (diameter, depth, etc.). With the instrument selection support system 1 according to this embodiment, you can select a bass drum as a candidate instrument that corresponds to your request information while checking the playing sound, which can provide a high level of satisfaction.

[0120] Furthermore, by using the instrument selection support system 1 according to this embodiment, when there are multiple newly released instruments, it is possible to confirm which instrument is best suited for oneself. In other words, the instrument selection support system 1 according to this embodiment can also be used to find the best instrument for oneself from among multiple instruments. For example, when an expensive instrument is difficult to test play, it is effective to be able to find the best instrument for oneself.

[0121] Since the above-mentioned descriptions of the instruments use unfamiliar words, and it is difficult to imagine them (bright, warm, sharp, response, etc.), onomatopoeias (onomatopoeic words) may be used to suggest candidate instruments to beginner user 2 instead of technical words. For example, instead of or in addition to words such as "brightness," "volume," "sustain," "attack," "response," "thickness," and "delicacy," words such as "dang," "bang," "pan," "tan," "can," "pan," "pan," "pan," "jit," "jat," and "shang" may be used to explain each evaluation item, explain the candidate instruments, and compare the candidate instruments.

[0122] <Second embodiment> A second embodiment of the instrument selection support system according to the present invention will be described. In the following description, the description of the same configuration and operation as in the instrument selection support system 1 described in the above embodiment will be omitted or simplified.

[0123] In this embodiment, it is possible to meet the request of the user 2 for each part constituting the instrument. That is, it is possible to propose one or more candidate parts together with performance sound data in response to the request information input by the user 2. Note that the performance sound data in this case is performance sound data of an instrument that is constructed using one or more candidate parts to be proposed.

[0124] Fig. 5 is a schematic diagram showing an example of parts that make up the snare drum 23. In the example shown in Fig. 5, the following parts are shown. Upper hoop 24...tension bolt 25 is included as one part Snare head (front head) 26 Shell (fuselage) 27... The lug 28 to which the tension bolt 25 is attached is included as one part. Snare side (rear head) 29 Lower hoop 30: This is a single part including the tension bolt (not shown). Snappy (wire) 31...The snappy cord and snappy tape (not shown) are included as one part.

[0125] In this disclosure, a musical instrument includes parts that make up the instrument. That is, each part that makes up the instrument is also a musical instrument. In the example shown in FIG. 5, each of the "upper hoop," "snare head," "shell," "snare side," "lower hoop," and "wire" is also included in the musical instrument. In addition, one or more candidate parts proposed to user 2 are concepts that are included in one or more candidate musical instruments.

[0126] It is possible to set which parts are regarded as one part as appropriate. For example, the "upper hoop" and "lower hoop" shown in FIG. 5 can be set as one part as a set. It is also possible to regard the "upper hoop" that does not include the tension bolt 25 as one part. It is also possible to regard the "shell" that does not include the lug 28 as one part. It is also possible to regard the "tension bolt" and the "lug" as one part.

[0127] The request information of the user 2 regarding the musical instrument includes request information regarding parts. In this embodiment, it is possible to propose one or more candidate parts together with performance sound data based on the request information. For example, it is possible to propose three types of shells, shell A, shell B, and shell C, as one or more candidate parts. At this time, performance sound data A of a snare drum configured using shell A, performance sound data B of a snare drum configured using shell B, and performance sound data C of a snare drum configured using shell C are all proposed.

[0128] Furthermore, the selection of a desired instrument includes the selection of a desired part from one or more candidate parts. For example, User 2 checks each of the performance sound data A to C and selects a desired part from shells A to C. In this way, it is possible to select an instrument (part) that is perfect for the user on a part-by-part basis, thereby realizing customization that suits the user. As a result, a service that provides an instrument that satisfies User 2 is realized.

[0129] For example, one or more candidate parts are selected by the candidate instrument selection unit 12 shown in Fig. 1. Then, the one or more candidate parts and the performance sound data are transmitted to the user terminal 3. The one or more candidate parts and the performance sound data are presented to the user 2 by the candidate instrument presentation unit 9 of the user terminal 3.

[0130] Here, a process flow useful for the user 2 to select an instrument part by part will be described. First, as described in the first embodiment, one or more candidate instruments (snare drums) are proposed together with performance sound data based on the snare drum request information of the user 2.

[0131] For example, the request information inputted may include audio data of a snare sound desired by the user 2, link information of a video performance by an artist the user 2 likes that is distributed by a video distribution service or the like, answer information to a questionnaire about the characteristics of a snare sound, etc. Based on the inputted request information, one or more candidate instruments 19 as exemplified in FIG.

[0132] Next, the user 2 selects a reference instrument from one or more candidate instruments 19. The reference instrument is an instrument that serves as a reference for selecting an instrument to be provided. Therefore, in this embodiment, a selection of a reference instrument that serves as a reference for selecting an instrument to be provided from one or more candidate instruments 19 inputted by the user 2 is accepted. For example, a functional block that accepts the selection of the reference instrument ("reference instrument selection receiving unit") is newly constructed. This functional block functions as a part of the "suggestion unit" according to the present invention.

[0133] When the reference instrument is selected, the user 2 inputs request information including further requests regarding the reference instrument. For example, the further request information regarding the reference instrument is accepted by the request information input accepting unit 8 of the user side terminal 3. Then, the further request information regarding the reference instrument is acquired by the request information acquiring unit 11 of the support server 4.

[0134] Based on further requests for the reference instrument, one or more parts constituting the reference instrument are modified and proposed to the user 2. For example, the candidate instrument selection unit 12 selects the parts to be modified and transmits them together with the performance sound data to the user terminal 3. The candidate instrument presentation unit 9 of the user terminal 3 presents the modified candidate parts and the performance sound data to the user 2.

[0135] At this time, the performance sound before the part is changed and the performance sound after the part is changed may be presented to the user 2 in a form that allows the user to compare the sounds. There may also be two or more parts that are candidates for change. In this case, the performance sound before the change and a plurality of performance sounds corresponding to the plurality of candidate parts after the change may be made available for comparison. This allows the user 2 to thoroughly consider which part is better (which part is best) and find the part that is perfect for him / her.

[0136] An example of the above process flow will now be described using a snare drum as an example.

[0137] It is assumed that a snare drum is selected as a reference instrument from one or more snare drums that are candidate instruments. For example, the user 2 selects a button for inputting further requests, and the screen is switched to an input screen for further requests. On the input screen, for example, a GUI is displayed that allows further request information regarding the characteristics of the snare sound to be input. In addition, request information regarding other matters, such as the period when a favorite artist was active, may be input.

[0138] For example, further desired information may be input for each evaluation item for the snare sound described with reference to Fig. 3 etc. Below, examples of further desired features of the snare sound input by the user 2 and corresponding changes to parts are given. Of course, the changes to parts shown below are merely examples and are not necessarily limiting.

[0139] "I want a little more volume" → Change the thickness of the "snare head". For example, change it to a thicker one.

[0140] "I would like a softer sound" → Change the material and structure of the "upper hoop" and "lower hoop." Examples of materials include aluminum, iron, and brass. For these materials, the material and structure of the "upper hoop" and "lower hoop" are changed based on factors such as hardness, weight, and manufacturing method (die casting / bending). For example, if the "upper hoop" and "lower hoop" of the standard instrument are made of aluminum, the material could be changed to brass to meet further requests.

[0141] "I want a sound with more projection" → Change the material of the "shell." For example, if the shell of the reference instrument is made of maple, change the material to aluminum to meet this additional request. Note that since there are several possible aspects of "sound projection," it is also effective to present multiple modification candidates in a form that allows the listener to compare the sounds of each performance. This presentation of multiple modification candidates can also be adopted for additional requests other than "sound projection."

[0142] "I want the snare sound to be more pronounced" → Change the "snare". For example, change to a type with more resonating wires. Or change the material of the resonating wires.

[0143] "I want to change the design of the rug" → Change to a "rug" with a different design. "It would be better if the snare (striking string) was more prominent" → Change the "striking string". For example, change to a type with more resonating strings. Or change the material of the resonating string.

[0144] "A more cohesive sound (e.g. a snare sound with fewer overtones. A subdued snare sound, not an open sound)" → Change the "head" type to one with more thickness "I want a brighter sound" → Change the "shell" material to wood. "I want a sound with a bit more response" → Change the type of "head" to a thinner one (the type often used in jazz, etc.). Change the "snare."

[0145] In addition, parts can be changed to meet various needs. For example, requests such as "I'd like a longer sustain," "I'd like a harder snare sound," or "I'd like a more open sound" can be met by changing parts.

[0146] When suggesting candidate parts, advice information may be output regarding settings such as how to use the candidate parts and tuning, etc. This is advantageous for obtaining a desired performance sound, and makes it possible to obtain a high level of satisfaction.

[0147] Many instruments, such as a snare drum, are made up of multiple parts. With such instruments, the number of combinations of parts increases, and it is often difficult for User 2 to find the optimal combination.

[0148] In this embodiment, User 2 can select one or more candidate parts while checking the performance sound. It is also possible to receive suggestions of candidate parts that meet further requests, making it possible for User 2 to fully obtain the parts he or she is pursuing. Of course, it is also possible to receive suggestions of types of parts that User 2 has not known before, making it possible to widely search for parts that suit his or her preferences. As a result, it is possible to realize high-quality customization for each User 2.

[0149] When inputting the further request information, the user 2 may be able to specify the part that he or she wishes to change.

[0150] After the user 2 selects the instrument (part) he / she wishes to provide, there are various ways in which the user 2 can acquire the instrument (part). For example, the user 2 may go to a nearby musical instrument store or the like and purchase the instrument (part). Alternatively, the user 2 may purchase the instrument (part) online via an EC site or the like.

[0151] It is also entirely conceivable that a company or the like that manufactures or sells musical instruments may construct the musical instrument selection support system 1 and provide it to the user 2. In this case, following the support for musical instrument selection, it is also possible to provide support for the purchase of the desired musical instrument (desired parts) selected by the user 2.

[0152] For example, a service that enables ordering of a desired instrument (requested parts), or the purchase of a desired instrument (requested parts), may be developed within the same application as the application for using the instrument selection support system 1.

[0153] <Third embodiment> FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of a musical instrument selection support system according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

[0154] In this embodiment, the user 2 who has acquired the requested instrument can input his / her impressions of playing the requested instrument in the user terminal 3. The support server 4 can then acquire the impressions of the user 2 who has played the requested instrument (hereinafter, referred to as "real performance impressions information").

[0155] In the present disclosure, a live performance includes various forms in which the user 2 plays the instrument he or she has selected. Typically, a live performance refers to the user 2 actually playing the instrument he or she wishes to provide in a real space (real world). However, the live performance is not limited to this, and in the present disclosure, a live performance also includes the user 2 wearing an HMD or the like playing the instrument he or she wishes to provide in a virtual space (virtual world).

[0156] For example, a user 2 wearing an HMD or the like actually plays a virtual object of a snare drum that the user selected as the instrument to be provided with a stick or the like. At this time, the performance sound of the snare drum corresponding to the swing of the arms and the way the stick hits the drum is output from the HMD or the like. Such performance of the instrument to be provided in the virtual space is also included in the real performance in the present disclosure.

[0157] In addition, in the performance of the desired musical instrument in the virtual space, if the performance sound output from the HMD or the like is based on the performance sound when an actual snare drum is actually played, it is considered to be a real performance according to the present invention, and if the performance sound is electronically (virtually) generated, it is not considered to be a real performance according to the present invention. It is also possible to implement the present technology according to such criteria.

[0158] In the instrument selection support system 33 shown in Fig. 6, an impression information input receiving unit 34 is configured as a functional block in the user terminal 3. Also, an impression information acquiring unit 35 is configured in the support server 4. These functional blocks are configured, for example, by the processor of each device executing a predetermined program. Of course, dedicated hardware such as an IC (integrated circuit) may be used to realize the functional blocks.

[0159] The impression information input receiving unit 34 receives the input of the real-performance impression information by the user 2. For example, an input screen (GUI) for inputting the real-performance impression information is displayed in an application that uses the musical instrument selection support system 33. Then, the real-performance impression information is input via the input screen.

[0160] The specific form for inputting the real-performance impression information is not limited, and any form may be adopted, such as text input, voice input, questionnaire input (information input by questionnaire), etc. Furthermore, the method and GUI, etc. for the user 2 to input the real-performance impression information are not limited, and may be designed arbitrarily.

[0161] For example, actual performance impression information when playing a snare drum may be input for each evaluation item for the snare sound described with reference to Fig. 3. For example, if a user thinks "the sound could have been a little brighter," actual performance impression information to the effect that a higher value would have been better for the evaluation item "brightness" is input. Of course, various other forms may be adopted for inputting actual performance impression information.

[0162] Furthermore, performance sound data from a live performance of the desired musical instrument, a video of the performance, etc. may be input as live performance impression information.

[0163] The impression information acquiring unit 35 of the support server 4 receives the real performance impression information input to the user terminal 3. The impression information acquiring unit 35 can also generate further real performance impression information based on the real performance impression information received from the user terminal 3.

[0164] In this embodiment, the impression information input receiving unit 34 of the user terminal 3 and the impression information acquisition unit 35 of the support server 4 realize the real-performance impression information acquisition unit of the present invention, which acquires real-performance impression information of a user who has performed the musical instrument desired to be provided.

[0165] Furthermore, each of the user terminal 3 and the support server 4 that constitute the instrument selection support system 33 functions as an embodiment of an information processing device equipped with a live performance impression information acquisition unit according to the present invention.

[0166] The real-performance impression information can be used for various purposes. For example, in this embodiment, the reference information that is the reference for selecting one or more candidate instruments (candidate parts) is updated based on the real-performance impression information.

[0167] The reference information includes, for example, the evaluation criteria for each evaluation item described with reference to Fig. 3. For example, the evaluation criteria for defining an evaluation of "1" to "5" for a performance sound for each evaluation item such as "brightness," "volume," "sustain," "attack," "response," "thickness," and "delicacy" correspond to one embodiment of the reference information according to the present invention.

[0168] For example, the evaluation criteria for defining the five-level evaluation for each evaluation item are updated based on the real performance impression information. For example, if real performance impression information is acquired indicating that "the sound could have been a little brighter," it can be determined that the "brightness" was insufficient. In other words, it can be determined that the "brightness" according to the previous evaluation criteria was a slightly low "brightness" for user 2.

[0169] Based on this judgment, the evaluation criteria are updated so that a performance sound that was previously evaluated as "brightness = 3" is now evaluated as "brightness = 2." This makes it possible to formulate evaluation criteria that are in line with the impressions of User 2.

[0170] A statistical process may be performed on the real-performance impression information acquired from each user 2, and the evaluation criterion may be updated based on the result of the statistical process. For example, if the result of the statistical process shows that more real-performance impression information indicating that "the sound could have been a little brighter" is acquired than a predetermined threshold, the evaluation criterion for "brightness" may be updated.

[0171] Also, the value by which the evaluation criterion is updated may be calculated based on the distribution of the real-performance impression information as a result of the statistical processing. For example, if the real-performance impression information indicating that "the sound could have been a little brighter" is acquired at a rate of 70%, the evaluation criterion is updated so that the performance sound evaluated as "brightness=3" is evaluated as "brightness=2".

[0172] On the other hand, if the actual performance impression information obtained is that "it would have been better if the sound was a little brighter" at a rate of 95%, it is possible to determine that the evaluation standard for "brightness" was too low up until now, and update the evaluation standard so that a performance sound that was evaluated as "brightness = 4" is now evaluated as "brightness = 2." Such processing is also possible.

[0173] Also, the reference information may be adjusted for each user 2. For example, each user 2 may be asked to create an account when using the instrument selection support system 33. This makes it possible to build a user DB, for example, and to manage each user's information for each user ID.

[0174] In such a case, it is possible to manage the evaluation criteria for each user based on the actual performance impression information of each user 2.

[0175] For example, for user A, the pre-established evaluation criteria are used as is for each evaluation item of the snare sound. For user B, actual performance impression information was acquired indicating that "the sound could have been a little brighter," so the evaluation criteria are updated so that the performance sound that was previously evaluated as "brightness = 3" is now evaluated as "brightness = 2."

[0176] For user C, actual performance impression information was acquired indicating that "I wish it was a little louder," so the evaluation criteria are updated so that the performance sound that was previously evaluated as "volume = 3" is now evaluated as "volume = 2." Personalization for each user 2 like this is also possible, making it possible for each user 2 to demonstrate a high level of satisfaction.

[0177] Of course, companies that manufacture musical instruments can use the information on impressions from actual performances when developing new musical instrument products in their development departments. For example, it is possible to obtain information on whether there was any deviation from the design intent of the instrument and what areas the instrument can be improved upon. By collecting impressions from many users 2 who have performed in various environments, it becomes possible to produce high-quality musical instruments that meet the needs of users 2.

[0178] In this way, it is possible to effectively utilize the real performance impression information collected from many users 2. For example, in a company that manufactures musical instruments, predetermined evaluation criteria are established in advance for the characteristics of the performance sound of musical instruments, such as the above-mentioned evaluation items related to the snare sound, and stored in the evaluation criteria DB. Based on the collected real performance impression information, it is possible to update and brush up the evaluation criteria related to the characteristics of the performance sound of each musical instrument stored in the evaluation criteria DB. As a result, it is possible to build an evaluation criteria DB that meets the needs of users 2, and it becomes possible to realize the manufacture of high-quality musical instruments.

[0179] In addition, when a user DB storing user information for each user 2 is constructed, evaluation criteria related to the characteristics of the sounds played by each musical instrument can also be managed as user information for each user 2. For example, in the initial state, evaluation criteria established in advance by a company or the like are stored in the user DB as user information for each user. When each user 2 inputs information on impressions of a real performance, the evaluation criteria for each user are updated and brushed up based on the information on impressions of a real performance. This makes it possible to realize high-quality personalization.

[0180] Furthermore, when developing and manufacturing musical instruments, the opinions of professional musicians are often taken into consideration. In such cases, evaluation criteria such as "brightness" may be established according to the sense of the professional musician. There may be a discrepancy in the sense of evaluation items related to sound characteristics such as "brightness" between these professional musicians and general users.

[0181] For example, let's say a new snare drum that professional musician A was involved in developing with an emphasis on "attack" is released. When a general user who admires professional musician A purchases the snare drum and plays it, he or she may feel that "the attack feeling is not as good as I expected" due to differences in playing skills.

[0182] In such a case, by collecting information on impressions of actual performances from general users, it is possible to formulate evaluation criteria that absorb the difference between the sense of professional musicians and that of general musicians in each evaluation item related to the characteristics of the performance sound. For example, a prototype that a professional musician feels is equivalent to an instrument with an "attack = 5" can be judged as equivalent to an instrument with an "attack = 4" for a general musician, which is advantageous for the production of high-quality instruments. As a result, it is possible to improve the brand power of companies that manufacture musical instruments.

[0183] <Fourth embodiment> FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of a musical instrument selection support system according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0184] In this embodiment, before the user 2 selects a desired instrument, it is possible to test play one or more candidate instruments (candidate parts).

[0185] In the present disclosure, a trial performance includes various forms in which the user 2 plays the candidate instruments (candidate parts) before selecting a desired instrument (desired part). Typically, a trial performance refers to the user 2 actually playing the candidate instruments (candidate parts) in real space (real world). However, in the present disclosure, a trial performance also includes the user 2 wearing an HMD or the like playing the candidate instruments (candidate parts) in a virtual space (virtual world).

[0186] For example, a user 2 wearing an HMD or the like actually plays a virtual object of a snare drum, which is a candidate instrument, with a stick or the like. At this time, the performance sound of the snare drum corresponding to the swing of the arms and the way the stick hits is output from the HMD or the like. Such performance of a candidate instrument (candidate part) in a virtual space is also included in the real performance in the present disclosure.

[0187] In addition, in the performance of the desired musical instrument in the virtual space, if the performance sound output from the HMD or the like is based on the performance sound when an actual snare drum is actually played, it is considered to be a trial performance according to the present invention, and if the performance sound is electronically (virtually) generated, it is not considered to be a trial performance according to the present invention. It is also possible to implement the present technology according to such criteria.

[0188] 7, a test performance demonstration processing execution unit 38 is configured as a functional block in the support server 4. These functional blocks are configured, for example, by the processor of the support server 4 executing a predetermined program. Of course, dedicated hardware such as an IC (integrated circuit) may be used to realize the functional blocks.

[0189] The trial performance realization process execution 38 executes a trial performance realization process for realizing a trial performance of one or more candidate instruments (candidate parts) by the user 2. The trial performance realization process includes, for example, any process for realizing delivery of one or more candidate instruments (candidate parts) to an address accessible to the user 2.

[0190] For example, each user 2 may create an account when using the instrument selection support system 37. This makes it possible to build a user DB and manage user information for each user ID.

[0191] In this embodiment, the user information is processed to deliver one or more candidate instruments (candidate parts) to a musical instrument store in an area where the user 2 lives or can access the user 2. For example, it is possible to realize a process for delivering one or more candidate instruments (candidate parts) to the home of the user 2, the school that the user 2 attends, the music school that the user 2 attends, a musical instrument store near the home of the user 2, etc.

[0192] It should be noted that the delivery of one or more candidate instruments (candidate parts) is not limited to the delivery of all of the candidate instruments (candidate parts), but includes the delivery of at least one of the candidate instruments (candidate parts).

[0193] For example, within an application for utilizing the instrument selection support system 37, the user 2 inputs an operation to the effect that he / she wishes to try out one or more candidate instruments (candidate parts). At that time, the user 2 may also input a delivery address for the one or more candidate instruments (candidate parts).

[0194] As the trial performance realization process, information on a store that is accessible to user 2 and allows a trial performance of one or more candidate instruments (candidate parts) may be output. For example, a search may be performed for a music store that is close to user 2's home, the school that user 2 attends, or the music class that user 2 attends and allows a trial performance of one or more candidate instruments (candidate parts), and user 2 may be notified.

[0195] For example, the trial performance realization process also includes a process of delivering one or more candidate instruments (candidate parts) to a musical instrument store (authorized dealer, etc.) operated by the company that builds the musical instrument selection support system 37 or a musical instrument store that is affiliated with the company that builds the musical instrument selection support system 37. The trial performance realization process also includes outputting information about musical instrument stores that are operated by the company that builds the musical instrument selection support system 37 or that are affiliated with the company that builds the musical instrument selection support system 37 and that are able to offer trial performances of one or more candidate instruments (candidate parts).

[0196] The trial performance realization process may include a process for realizing a trial performance of one or more candidate musical instruments (candidate parts) in a virtual space. In this case, the trial performance realization process includes various processes for providing a virtual space for the user 2 wearing an HMD or the like.

[0197] For example, it is possible to stock instruments for test performance by user 2 and deliver candidate instruments (candidate parts) to a store or the like as appropriate for test performance. Also, user 2 may be able to select between delivery of candidate instruments (candidate parts) and output of information on stores where candidate instruments (candidate parts) can be test performed.

[0198] In this embodiment, when the user 2 has tried playing one or more candidate instruments (candidate parts), the user 2 can input his / her impressions to the user terminal 3. The support server 4 can then acquire impression information (hereinafter, referred to as trial performance impression information) of the user 2 who has tried playing one or more candidate instruments (candidate parts).

[0199] In this embodiment, the impression information input receiving unit 34 in the user terminal 3 receives the trial performance impression information input by the user 2. For example, an input screen (GUI) for inputting the trial performance impression information is displayed in an application that uses the musical instrument selection support system 37. The trial performance impression information is then input via the input screen.

[0200] The specific form for inputting the trial performance impression information is not limited, and any form may be adopted, such as text input, voice input, questionnaire input (information input by questionnaire), etc. Furthermore, the method and GUI, etc. for the user 2 to input the real performance impression information are not limited, and may be designed arbitrarily.

[0201] For example, trial performance impression information may be input when a snare drum selected as one or more candidate instruments is trial played for each evaluation item for the snare sound described with reference to Fig. 3 etc. For example, if a user thinks "I want a little more attack!", trial performance impression information is input indicating that a higher value is preferable for the evaluation item "attack". Of course, various other forms may be adopted for inputting trial performance impression information.

[0202] Furthermore, performance sound data obtained when one or more candidate musical instruments (candidate parts) are test-played, a video of the performance, or the like may be input as test-play impression information.

[0203] The impression information acquiring unit 35 of the support server 4 receives the trial performance impression information input to the user terminal 3. The impression information acquiring unit 35 is also capable of generating further trial performance impression information based on the trial performance impression information received from the user terminal 3.

[0204] In this embodiment, the impression information input receiving unit 34 of the user terminal 3 and the impression information acquisition unit 35 of the support server 4 realize a trial performance impression information acquisition unit according to the present invention, which acquires trial performance impression information of a user who has test-played one or more candidate instruments.

[0205] Furthermore, each of the user terminal 3 and the support server 4 that constitute the instrument selection support system 37 functions as an embodiment of an information processing device equipped with a trial performance impression information acquisition unit according to the present invention.

[0206] The trial performance impression information can be used for various purposes. For example, in this embodiment, one or more candidate instruments (candidate parts) proposed to the user 2 are updated based on the acquired trial performance impression information. For example, the trial performance impression information can be processed in the same manner as the above-mentioned further request information for the reference instrument. For example, when trial performance impression information is acquired indicating that "a little more attack is desired," a snare drum with a high evaluation value for "attack" is presented as a new candidate instrument. This can be realized by the same algorithm as when further request information indicating that an "attack" is desired for the reference instrument is acquired. Of course, a different algorithm may be used.

[0207] In addition, the above-mentioned use of the real performance impression information can also be applied to the use of the trial performance impression information. For example, based on the trial performance impression information, criteria information (e.g., evaluation criteria for each evaluation item) that serves as a criterion for selecting one or more candidate musical instruments may be updated. Furthermore, in companies that manufacture musical instruments, the trial performance impression information can also be used in the development of new musical instrument products in the development department.

[0208] By allowing the user 2 to try out one or more candidate instruments (candidate parts), it is possible to further increase the satisfaction of the user 2.

[0209] <Fifth embodiment> FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of a musical instrument selection support system according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention.

[0210] The instrument selection support system 40 according to this embodiment is configured as a system that provides instruments to the user 2 by a subscription system. In other words, it is possible to build the instrument selection support system 40 according to the present invention within a subscription system that provides instruments to the user 2 by a subscription system.

[0211] The subscription method refers to a sales method in which the user 2 can consume a specified range of products at will within a period of his / her choice (generally within a period of one day or more) for a certain price, rather than paying a fee each time a product is purchased. The subscription method can also be said to be a method in which the user does not generally purchase an item, but rather rents the right to use the item and pays a fee according to the period of use.

[0212] 8, the instrument selection support system 40 includes a subscription management server 41. The subscription management server 41 is connected to the user terminal 3 and the support server 4 via a network 5 so as to be able to communicate with each other.

[0213] In this embodiment, a DB 42 is constructed that can be accessed by the subscription management server 41. The DB 42 stores user information of the user 2 who uses the musical instrument selection support system 40, i.e., the subscription system. For example, the DB 42 stores personal information of each user 2, a musical instrument purchase history, and the like.

[0214] The subscription management server 41 functions as a subscription management unit and executes various processes related to the provision of musical instruments by the subscription system. For example, the subscription management server 41 executes various processes such as settlement management for the purchase of musical instruments by user 2, delivery management for delivering musical instruments to user 2 by delivery van 43 or the like, management of expiration dates of musical instruments purchased by user 2, management of receipt of musical instruments returned by user 2, and management of musical instrument maintenance.

[0215] The provision of musical instruments through a subscription system can be realized, for example, by using well-known technology. In addition, any technology may be adopted to realize the provision of musical instruments through a subscription system.

[0216] 8 may be configured as an integrated unit. Also, the DB 7 and the DB 42 may be configured as an integrated unit.

[0217] For example, User 2 downloads an application for using this subscription system to User Terminal 3. For example, User 2 inputs information such as an ID and a password to create an account for using the subscription system.

[0218] User 2 starts the application, uses the instrument selection support service according to the present invention as described in the first to fourth embodiments, and selects the instrument (part) that best suits him / her. Then, he / she purchases the instrument (part) he / she has selected by subscription. Of course, the fee structure and terms of use of the subscription may be set arbitrarily.

[0219] For example, instruments such as snare drums are often expensive, and it is difficult to buy new instruments over and over again. Also, if an instrument has many parts, it is difficult to find the perfect combination of parts for you.

[0220] By constructing a subscription system as in this embodiment, it is possible to easily try out various instruments (parts), which is considered to be advantageous in finding the perfect instrument (part) for oneself. It is also considered to be possible to aggregate more information on impressions of actual performances and impressions of trial performances from user 2, which is considered to be advantageous in terms of updating standard information (e.g., evaluation criteria for each evaluation item), realizing high-quality personalization, and using feedback from user 2 for product development, etc.

[0221] <Other embodiments> The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and various other embodiments can be realized.

[0222] When each piece of information is presented to user 2 (displayed, output as audio, etc.) and when each piece of information is obtained in response to an operation by user 2, as described in the present disclosure, interactive processing (response) may be performed for user 2.

[0223] For example, when receiving input of desired information via a questionnaire in step 101 shown in Fig. 2, it is possible to dynamically change part of the content of the questionnaire based on the answers of user 2 to the questionnaire items and present the changed content to user 2. This makes it possible to present more detailed questionnaire items in line with the desires of user 2, and to obtain more detailed desired information.

[0224] 2, when one or more candidate instruments are presented together with the performance sound data, it may be possible to input questions about the candidate instruments, input further request information, etc. If request information is input, the process may return to the request information transmission step of step 102, for example, and a new candidate instrument may be selected in steps 103 and 104. This makes it possible to more accurately respond to the request of user 2, and to improve the satisfaction of user 2. In addition, the steps shown in FIG. 2 may be executed in conjunction with each other as appropriate.

[0225] When the candidate instrument selection unit 12 of the support server 4 selects candidate instruments (candidate parts), performance skill information regarding the ability (performance skill) of the user 2 to play an instrument may be referenced. In other words, the candidate instrument selection unit 12 may select one or more candidate instruments (candidate parts) based on the performance skill information.

[0226] In order to acquire the skill information of each user 2, a playing skill information acquisition unit is constructed as a functional block within this musical instrument selection support system. For example, a playing skill information input acceptance unit is configured in the user terminal 3, and a playing skill information acquisition unit is configured in the support server 4. These functional blocks are configured, for example, by the processor of each device executing a predetermined program. Of course, dedicated hardware such as an IC (integrated circuit) may be used to realize the functional blocks.

[0227] The musical performance skill information includes any information that can determine the musical performance skill of the user 2 and any information that indicates the musical performance skill of the user 2. For example, the musical performance skill information includes a video of the user 2 playing an instrument and sound data produced when the user 2 plays an instrument.

[0228] For example, the performance skill information acquisition unit of the support server 4 analyzes the performance video (including performance sound data) of the user 2 and judges the performance skill of the user 2. The judgment result is included in the performance skill information. Note that the performance skill can be said to be a characteristic of the performance, and does not necessarily need to be classified in terms of good or bad performance.

[0229] Also, the performance skill information may be acquired by having User 2 input a video of him / her playing a device for measuring performance skills (for example, a practice pad for a snare drum) and analyzing the video. Also, the device for measuring performance skills may be delivered to User 2, so that the performance skills can be measured.

[0230] For example, the skill (characteristics) of user 2 in playing the snare drum is judged based on a video of user 2 playing the snare drum. For example, the skill (characteristics) of user 2 is judged for each evaluation item such as "brightness," "volume," "sustain," "attack," "response," "thickness," and "delicacy" related to the snare sound described with reference to FIG. 3 and the like.

[0231] For example, let us say that it is determined from the performance video of user 2 that he / she usually uses large strokes and usually plays loudly. In this case, performance skill information is obtained that indicates that he / she usually produces high values ​​for items such as "brightness," "volume," and "attack." Also, let us say that it is determined from the video of him / her playing the snare drum with very fine movements that he / she usually plays delicately. In this case, performance skill information is obtained that indicates that he / she usually produces high values ​​for items such as "delicacy."

[0232] The acquired playing skill information is stored as user information for each user.

[0233] For example, assume that user 2, who usually gives a high score for "volume", inputs a request for "a snare drum with a low volume." In this case, since user 2 usually gives a high volume, a snare drum with a sufficiently low evaluation item for "volume" (for example, "volume = 1") is proposed as a candidate instrument.

[0234] Also, assume that User 2, who usually gives a high score for "delicacy," inputs request information for "a snare drum with a large attack." In this case, since User 2 usually plays delicately and has a slightly weaker attack, a snare drum with a sufficiently high evaluation item for "attack" (for example, "attack = 5") is proposed as a candidate instrument.

[0235] In this way, candidate instruments are proposed according to the user's playing skill (characteristics). This makes it possible to propose candidate instruments that are more suitable for User 2 and that User 2 desires, thereby improving User 2's satisfaction.

[0236] In the present musical instrument selection support system, there may be cases where performance sound data of a candidate musical instrument cannot be prepared. In such cases, information to the effect that performance sound data is not available may be notified to the user 2. Also, performance sound data for reference may be presented.

[0237] The parts that make up an instrument, such as the "upper hoop," "lower hoop," "tension bolts," and "lugs," may be newly created using, for example, a 3D printer. The newly created parts may then be proposed as candidate parts. In other words, by using this instrument selection support system, it is possible to realize custom-made instruments (parts) based on request information.

[0238] In the above, a drum instrument and the parts that make up a drum instrument are given as examples of musical instruments. Of course, the musical instruments to which the present technology can be applied are not limited, and the technology can be applied to various string instruments, wind instruments, percussion instruments, keyboard instruments, electric instruments, Japanese instruments, and ethnic instruments such as acoustic drums, electronic drums, acoustic guitars, electric guitars, pianos, and violins, as well as the parts that make up these instruments.

[0239] In the above embodiment, an application (application program) for using the instrument selection support system is downloaded. In other words, a native application is used to use the instrument selection support system. However, the present invention is not limited to this. It is also possible to use the instrument selection support system on a Web page displayed by a Web browser via a Web application. In this case, the trouble of installing an application is eliminated, and problems such as insufficient terminal capacity can be avoided.

[0240] 9 is a block diagram showing an example of a hardware configuration of a computer 60 that can be used as the user terminal 3, the support server 4, and the subscription management server 41. The user terminal 3 may further include an imaging function such as a camera.

[0241] The computer 60 includes a CPU 61, a ROM 62, a RAM 63, an input / output interface 65, and a bus 64 connecting these to one another. The input / output interface 65 is connected to a display unit 66, an input unit 67, a storage unit 68, a communication unit 69, a drive unit 70, and the like. The display unit 66 is, for example, a display device using a liquid crystal, an EL, etc. The input unit 67 is, for example, a keyboard, a pointing device, a touch panel, or other operating device. When the input unit 67 includes a touch panel, the touch panel can be integrated with the display unit 66. The storage unit 68 is a non-volatile storage device, such as a HDD, a flash memory, or other solid-state memory. The drive unit 70 is a device capable of driving a removable recording medium 71, such as an optical recording medium, a magnetic recording tape, or the like. The communication unit 69 is a modem, a router, or other communication device that can be connected to a LAN, a WAN, or the like and is used to communicate with other devices. The communication unit 69 may communicate either wired or wirelessly. The communication unit 69 is often used separately from the computer 60. Information processing by computer 60 having the above hardware configuration is realized by cooperation between software stored in storage unit 68 or ROM 62, etc., and hardware resources of computer 60. Specifically, the information processing method according to the present invention is realized by loading a program constituting the software stored in ROM 62, etc., into RAM 63 and executing the program. The program is installed in the computer 60 via, for example, the recording medium 71. Alternatively, the program may be installed in the computer 60 via a global network or the like. Any other computer-readable non-transitory storage medium may be used.

[0242] The information processing method (method of supporting instrument selection) and program of the present invention may be executed by collaboration between multiple computers connected to each other so as to communicate with each other via a network or the like, thereby constructing an information processing system or information processing device of the present invention. That is, the information processing method and program according to the present invention can be executed not only in a computer system constituted by a single computer, but also in a computer system in which a plurality of computers operate in conjunction with each other. In this disclosure, a system refers to a collection of multiple components (devices, modules (parts), etc.), regardless of whether all the components are in the same housing. Therefore, multiple devices housed in separate housings and connected via a network, and a single device in which multiple modules are housed in a single housing, are both systems.

[0243] The execution of the information processing method and program according to the present invention by a computer system includes both cases where the acquisition of request information, selection of candidate instruments (candidate parts), presentation of candidate instruments (candidate parts), presentation of performance sound data, acceptance of selection of a desired instrument (desired part), acquisition of actual performance impression information, acquisition of trial performance impression information, execution of trial performance realization process, acquisition of performance skill information, etc. are performed by a single computer, and cases where each process is performed by a different computer. Furthermore, the execution of each process by a specific computer includes causing another computer to execute part or all of the process and obtaining the results. In other words, the information processing method and program according to the present invention can also be applied to a cloud computing configuration in which a single function is shared and processed jointly by multiple devices via a network.

[0244] The instrument selection support system, the user terminal, the support server, the subscription system management server, the various DBs, the GUI for inputting information such as request information, the configuration of the GUI for proposing candidate instruments (candidate parts), the process flow for obtaining request information, proposing candidate instruments (candidate parts), etc., which have been described with reference to the drawings, are merely one embodiment and may be modified as desired without departing from the spirit of the present invention. In other words, any other configuration, algorithm, etc. may be adopted for implementing the present invention.

[0245] In this disclosure, in order to facilitate understanding of the explanation, the words "approximately", "almost", "approximately", etc. may be used as appropriate. However, there is no clear difference between using the words "approximately", "almost", "approximately", etc. and not using them. In other words, in the present disclosure, concepts that define shape, size, positional relationship, state, and the like, such as "center," "central," "uniform," "equal," "same," "orthogonal," "parallel," "symmetric," "extending," "axial direction," "cylindrical," "cylindrical," "ring-shaped," and "annular," are concepts that include "substantially central," "substantially central," "substantially uniform," "substantially equal," "substantially the same," "substantially orthogonal," "substantially parallel," "substantially symmetric," "substantially extending," "substantially axial direction," "substantially cylindrical," "substantially cylindrical," "substantially ring-shaped," "substantially annular," and the like. For example, this includes states that are included within a specified range (e.g., a range of ±10%) based on standards such as "perfectly centered," "perfectly central," "perfectly uniform," "perfectly equal," "perfectly the same," "perfectly orthogonal," "perfectly parallel," "perfectly symmetrical," "perfectly extended," "perfectly axial," "perfectly cylindrical," "perfectly cylindrical," "perfectly ring-shaped," "perfectly toric," etc. Therefore, even if the words "approximately", "almost", "roughly", etc. are not added, the concept expressed by adding "approximately", "almost", "approximately", etc. may be included. Conversely, a state expressed by adding "approximately", "almost", "approximately", etc. does not necessarily exclude a perfect state.

[0246] In this disclosure, expressions using "more than", such as "greater than A" and "smaller than A", are expressions that comprehensively include both concepts that include equivalent to A and concepts that do not include equivalent to A. For example, "greater than A" is not limited to cases that do not include equivalent to A, but also includes "A or greater." Furthermore, "smaller than A" is not limited to "less than A" but also includes "A or less." When implementing the present technology, specific settings and the like may be appropriately adopted from the concepts included in "greater than A" and "smaller than A" so as to achieve the effects described above.

[0247] Of the characteristic features of the present invention described above, at least two of the characteristic features may be combined. In other words, the various characteristic features described in each embodiment may be arbitrarily combined without distinction between the embodiments. In addition, the various effects described above are merely examples and are not limited thereto, and other effects may be exhibited. [Explanation of symbols]

[0248] 1, 33, 37, 40...Instrument selection support system 2. User 3...User terminal 4. Support server 7, 42…DB 15. Survey 18…Presentation screen 19…Candidate Instruments 20…Sound button 21...Confirmation button 23...Snare drum 24…Upper hoop 25...Tension bolt 26…Snare head (front head) 27…Shell (torso) 28…Rug 29…Snare side (rear head) 30…Lower hoop 31…Snappy (wire) 41...Subscription management server

Claims

1. a request information acquisition unit that acquires user request information regarding a musical instrument; a suggestion unit that selects one or more candidate instruments corresponding to the acquired request information, and suggests the selected one or more candidate instruments to the user together with data of the performance sounds of each of the one or more candidate instruments; a reception unit for receiving a selection of a desired instrument from the one or more candidate instruments input by the user; An information processing system comprising:

2. 2. The information processing system according to claim 1, The musical instrument includes parts that constitute the musical instrument, the one or more candidate instruments include one or more candidate parts; the suggestion unit suggests the one or more candidate parts to the user together with data of a performance sound of the musical instrument that is composed using the one or more candidate parts; The reception unit receives a selection of a part to be provided from the one or more candidate parts. Information processing system.

3. 2. The information processing device according to claim 1, the suggestion unit accepts a selection of a reference instrument that serves as a reference for selecting the desired instrument from the one or more candidate instruments input by the user; the request information acquisition unit acquires the request information including further requests of the user regarding the reference instrument, The suggestion unit modifies one or more parts constituting the reference instrument based on further requests for the reference instrument and suggests the modified parts to the user. Information processing system.

4. The information processing system according to claim 1, further comprising: a real-performance impression information acquisition unit that acquires real-performance impression information of the user who has performed the musical instrument to be provided; The suggestion unit updates reference information serving as a reference for selecting the one or more candidate instruments based on the acquired real-performance impression information. Information processing system.

5. The information processing system according to claim 1, further comprising: an execution unit that executes a trial performance realization process for realizing a trial performance of the one or more candidate musical instruments by the user; Information processing system.

6. 6. The information processing system according to claim 5, The test performance implementation process includes at least one of a process for implementing delivery of the one or more candidate musical instruments to an address accessible to the user, and outputting information on a store accessible to the user and allowing the user to test play the one or more candidate musical instruments. Information processing system. Store Locator

7. The information processing system according to claim 1, further comprising: a trial performance impression information acquisition unit that acquires trial performance impression information of the user who has trial-played the one or more candidate musical instruments; The suggestion unit updates the one or more candidate instruments to be suggested to the user based on the acquired trial performance information. Information processing system.

8. 2. The information processing system according to claim 1, The request information includes a request regarding characteristics of a sound played on the musical instrument. Information processing system.

9. 2. The information processing device according to claim 1, The desired information acquisition unit outputs a questionnaire regarding the musical instrument, and acquires answer information to the questionnaire as the desired information. Information processing system.

10. 2. The information processing system according to claim 1, The suggestion unit sets a recommendation level for the user for each of the one or more candidate instruments, and suggests the one or more candidate instruments in a form that reflects the set recommendation level. Information processing system.

11. The information processing system according to claim 1, further comprising: a musical performance skill information acquisition unit that acquires musical performance skill information relating to the user's ability to play the musical instrument; The suggestion unit selects the one or more candidate instruments based on the acquired playing skill information. Information processing system.

12. 2. The information processing system according to claim 1, The musical instrument includes a drum instrument and parts that constitute the drum instrument. Information processing system.

13. 2. The information processing system according to claim 1, The system is configured to provide the musical instrument to the user on a subscription basis. Information processing system.

14. Acquire user's request information regarding musical instruments, selecting one or more candidate instruments corresponding to the acquired request information, and proposing the selected one or more candidate instruments to the user together with data of the performance sounds of each of the one or more candidate instruments; A selection of a desired instrument from the one or more candidate instruments is accepted, which is input by the user. The information processing method is executed by a computer system.

15. Acquire user's request information regarding musical instruments, selecting one or more candidate instruments corresponding to the acquired request information, and proposing the selected one or more candidate instruments to the user together with data of the performance sounds of each of the one or more candidate instruments; A selection of a desired instrument from the one or more candidate instruments is accepted, which is input by the user. A program that causes a computer system to do something.

16. a request information acquisition unit that acquires user request information regarding a musical instrument; a suggestion unit that selects one or more candidate instruments corresponding to the acquired request information, and suggests the selected one or more candidate instruments to the user together with data of the performance sounds of each of the one or more candidate instruments; a reception unit for receiving a selection of a desired instrument from the one or more candidate instruments input by the user; An information processing device comprising:

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