System, program, information processing device and information processing method

Abstract

To increase convenience to a user.SOLUTION: A system includes: a route information acquisition part for acquiring route information on a route for moving from a first point in a real space to a second point in the real space, and in the route information acquisition part, the route information includes event information on one or more events for moving on the route; a space information processing part for acquiring space information on one or more virtual spaces on the basis of the route information, and in the space information acquisition part, the one or more virtual spaces correspond to the real spaces on the route, and one or more objects are respectively related to execution of the one or more events; an operation reception part for receiving movement related operation to the one or more objects from a user; a movement control part for controlling movement in one or more user's virtual spaces on the basis of the movement related operation received from the user by the operation reception part; and a first virtual space output part for outputting one or more virtual spaces to the user.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, a technology for guiding a user has been known. For example, Patent Document 1 describes a user-friendly route guidance technology that allows a user to use map and photographic information extremely easily.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] The technology described in Patent Document 1 cannot sufficiently enhance the convenience for the user. The present disclosure aims to enhance the convenience for the user.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] A system according to one aspect of the present disclosure is a system that allows a user to virtually experience some or all of the events related to the movement to a destination. The system includes a route information acquisition unit that acquires route information regarding a route for moving from a first point in the real space to a second point in the real space. The route information includes event information regarding one or more events for moving on the route. The system also includes a space information acquisition unit that acquires space information regarding one or more virtual spaces based on the route information. The one or more virtual spaces correspond to the real space on the route, and one or more objects related to executing each of the one or more events are arranged therein. The system further includes an operation reception unit that receives a movement-related operation including an operation on one or more objects from the user, a movement control unit that controls the movement of the user within the one or more virtual spaces based on the movement-related operation received by the operation reception unit, and a first virtual space output unit that outputs the one or more virtual spaces to the user.

[0006] A program according to another aspect of the present disclosure is a program that allows a user to virtually experience some or all of the events related to the movement to a destination. The program causes a computer to function as a space information acquisition means that acquires space information regarding one or more virtual spaces based on route information regarding a route for moving from a first point in the real space to a second point in the real space. The route information includes event information regarding one or more events for moving on the route. The one or more virtual spaces correspond to the real space on the route, and one or more objects related to executing each of the one or more events are arranged therein. The program also causes the computer to function as an operation reception means that receives a movement-related operation including an operation on one or more objects from the user, a movement control means that controls the movement of the user within the one or more virtual spaces based on the movement-related operation received by the operation reception means, and a first virtual space output means that outputs the one or more virtual spaces to the user.

[0007] An information processing apparatus according to another aspect of the present disclosure is an information processing apparatus that allows a user to virtually experience part or all of an event related to movement to a destination. The information processing apparatus includes a route information acquisition unit that acquires route information related to a route for moving from a first point in the real space to a second point in the real space. The route information includes event information related to one or more events for moving on the route. A space information acquisition unit that acquires space information related to one or more virtual spaces based on the route information. The one or more virtual spaces correspond to the real space on the route and one or more objects related to executing each of the one or more events are arranged therein. An operation reception unit that receives a movement-related operation including an operation on one or more objects from the user. A movement control unit that controls the movement of the user in one or more virtual spaces based on the operation received by the operation reception unit from the user. A transmission unit that transmits information for outputting one or more virtual spaces.

[0008] An information processing method according to another aspect of the present disclosure is an information processing method that allows a user to virtually experience part or all of an event related to movement to a destination. The information processing method includes a route information acquisition step of causing a computer to acquire route information related to a route for moving from a first point in the real space to a second point in the real space. The route information includes event information related to one or more events for moving on the route. A space information acquisition step of acquiring space information related to one or more virtual spaces based on the route information. The one or more virtual spaces correspond to the real space on the route and one or more objects related to executing each of the one or more events are arranged therein. An operation reception step of receiving a movement-related operation including an operation on one or more objects from the user. A movement control step of controlling the movement of the user in one or more virtual spaces based on the operation received in the operation reception step from the user. A transmission step of transmitting information for outputting one or more virtual spaces.

Advantages of the Invention

[0009] According to the present disclosure, convenience for the user can be enhanced.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0010]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Modes for Carrying Out the Invention

[0011] <1. Overview> Conventionally, in, for example, map application software for smartphones, technologies for guiding a method of moving from a certain point to a destination are known. However, guidance only by characters and / or images may be insufficient. For example, when the destination is overseas, methods such as ticket issuance at the airport, identification of the boarding gate, and transfer of public transportation at the local area may not be able to sufficiently guide the user. According to System 1 according to the present disclosure, such problems can be solved.

[0012] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an overview of System 1. System 1 first acquires route information regarding a route from the user's departure point to the destination. In this example, as shown in the upper part of FIG. 1, it is assumed that the user can reach the destination by (1) moving to the airport, (2) issuing a ticket, (3) boarding the airplane, and (4) boarding the train at the station after landing.

[0013] Next, the system 1 acquires spatial information regarding the virtual space corresponding to the real space on this route. In this example, the system 1 acquires spatial information regarding the virtual airport, virtual station, and virtual destination in the virtual space corresponding to the airport, station, and destination respectively in the real space.

[0014] In the virtual airport, as objects, a virtual ticket issuing machine and a virtual airplane are arranged. The user can virtually experience the issuance of a ticket in the real space (corresponding to the above (2)) by operating the virtual ticket issuing machine within the virtual space. Also, the user can virtually experience boarding an airplane in the real space (corresponding to the above (3)) by boarding the virtual airplane within the virtual space.

[0015] In the virtual station, as an object, a virtual train is arranged. After getting off the virtual airplane, the user can virtually experience boarding a train in the real space (corresponding to the above (4)) by boarding the virtual train within the virtual space. Thereby, the user can virtually experience the entire movement to the destination. Virtually experiencing the movement can also mean simulating the movement, previewing the route of the movement, conducting a preliminary exercise of the movement, pre-learning the route of the movement, scouting the route of the movement, experiencing the movement in advance, and taking countermeasures for the movement.

[0016] In the present disclosure, the "virtual space" includes an image generated by a computer that a user can recognize as a space. The virtual space may be represented two-dimensionally (i.e., as a planar image) or three-dimensionally (i.e., as a stereoscopic image). The user may recognize the output virtual space as if it were a physically existing space. The user can act within the virtual space through their electronic avatar (which can also be referred to as an "avatar"). In the present disclosure, "the user acts within the virtual space" includes the user acting within the virtual space through their avatar.

[0017] <2. Functional Configuration> With reference to FIGS. 2 and 3, the functional configuration of the system 1 will be described.

[0018] [Overall Configuration of System 1] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the overall configuration of the system 1. The system 1 includes an information processing apparatus 2, a device 3, an airline operator server apparatus 4a, a railway operator server apparatus 4b, and a communication network 5. The information processing apparatus 2, the device 3, the airline operator server apparatus 4a, and the railway operator server apparatus 4b are configured to be communicable with each other via the communication network 5. Hereinafter, when the airline operator server apparatus 4a and the railway operator server apparatus 4b are not particularly distinguished, they are collectively referred to as the "operator server apparatus 4".

[0019] [Information Processing Apparatus 2] The information processing apparatus 2 is a server apparatus when the device 3 is used as a client terminal apparatus. In one embodiment, the information processing apparatus 2 is a web server apparatus. That is, the information processing apparatus 2 may receive an HTTP request from the device 3 and transmit an HTTP response accordingly. The information processing apparatus 2 may be configured to be communicable with an external server apparatus that provides map information, for example.

[0020] [Airline Operator Server Apparatus 4a] The airline operator server apparatus 4a is a server apparatus managed by an airline operator. The airline operator server apparatus 4a stores spatial information regarding a virtual airport and transmits the spatial information in response to a request from the information processing apparatus 2, for example.

[0021] [Railway Operator Server Apparatus 4b] The railway operator server apparatus 4b is a server apparatus managed by a railway operator. The railway operator server apparatus 4b stores spatial information regarding a virtual station and transmits the spatial information in response to a request from the information processing apparatus 2, for example.

[0022] [Device 3] Device 3 is a device used by the user. Device 3 is, for example, a device such as a head-mounted display, smart glasses, smartphone, personal computer, and tablet terminal. Device 3 includes an input device (for example, a camera, microphone, acceleration sensor, keyboard, mouse, button, touch panel, etc.) and can receive input of various information via the input device. In addition, Device 3 includes an output device (for example, a display, speaker, etc.) and can output various information via the output device. Hereinafter, Device 3 will be described as a head-mounted display.

[0023] Referring to FIG. 3, an example of the functional configuration of Device 3 will be described. Device 3 includes a control unit 10, a storage unit 12, a network interface unit 14, and a bus 16. The control unit 10, the storage unit 12, and the network interface unit 14 are electrically connected via the bus 16.

[0024] (Control Unit 10) The control unit 10 functions as an acquisition unit 100, a reception unit 106, a movement control unit 108, a detection unit 104, and an output unit 102 by executing various programs or instructions stored in the storage unit 12.

[0025] - Acquisition Unit 100 - The acquisition unit 100 includes a route information acquisition unit 100a and a space information acquisition unit 100b.

[0026] ~ Route Information Acquisition Unit 100a ~ The route information acquisition unit 100a acquires route information regarding a route (hereinafter referred to as the "target route") for moving from a first point in the real space to a second point in the real space. The first point and the second point can also be referred to as the departure point and the destination, respectively.

[0027] The route information includes event information regarding an event (hereinafter referred to as a "movement event") for moving on the target route. The movement event may be any of the following, for example. (1) Move on foot along the target route (2) Board a moving body (e.g., automobile, train, airplane, ship, etc.) moving along the target route (3) Get off the moving body

[0028] In one embodiment, the route information acquisition unit 100a acquires route information based on the fact that the destination reception unit 106c, which will be described later, has received the designation of the second point.

[0029] ~Space information acquisition unit 100b~ The space information acquisition unit 100b acquires space information regarding the virtual space based on the route information acquired by the route information acquisition unit 100a. The virtual space corresponds to the real space on the target route. That the virtual space corresponds to the real space may mean that the virtual space reproduces the real space. For example, when there is an airport and a station on the target route, the space information acquisition unit 100b acquires space information regarding the airport, the station, the virtual airport and the virtual station reproduced in the virtual space. The virtual airport and the virtual station may be so-called digital twins of the airport and the station on the target route, respectively. When there are roads, houses, etc. on the target route, the space information may include information for reproducing the roads, houses, etc. in the virtual space.

[0030] In one embodiment, that the virtual space corresponds to the real space includes that the virtual space reproduces the real space as it is. That is, the system 1 may be such that by allowing the user to recognize the virtual space, it gives the user an illusion as if the user himself / herself were in the real space corresponding to the virtual space. That the virtual space corresponds to the real space can also mean that the virtual space imitates (copies) the real space.

[0031] In one embodiment, the spatial information acquisition unit 100b acquires spatial information generated based on an image or the like captured by a terminal device of a person who has moved at least a part of the target route in the past. For example, the spatial information acquisition unit 100b may acquire spatial information generated based on an image captured by a person who has used a predetermined airport in the past using the camera function of their own terminal device.

[0032] In one embodiment, the spatial information acquisition unit 100b acquires spatial information provided by a transportation operator and / or a passenger operator. For example, the spatial information acquisition unit 100b may acquire spatial information regarding a virtual airport from the airline server device 4a and acquire spatial information regarding a virtual station from the railway operator server device 4b.

[0033] In the virtual space, one or more objects related to the execution of a movement event (hereinafter referred to as "movement-related objects") are arranged. The movement-related object may be, for example, any of the following. (1) An object that reproduces a moving body in the virtual space (for example, a virtual airplane, etc.) (2) An object for virtually executing procedures for boarding a moving body (for example, a virtual ticket issuing machine) (3) An object for a user to indicate in the virtual space the direction in which the user should move (for example, a sign indicating a route in the virtual space) (4) An object that reproduces roads and passageways on the target route in the virtual space

[0034] Regarding the movement-related object for virtually executing the procedures for boarding a moving body, it may reflect the specifications of the device for executing the procedures for boarding the moving body in the real space. That is, the movement-related object and the device may have, for example, common appearance, screen transition, and operation method, etc.

[0035] ―Output unit 102― The output unit 102 includes a first virtual space output unit 102a, an object information output unit 102b, a second virtual space output unit 102c, a user information output unit 102d, and a route information output unit 102e.

[0036] ~The first virtual space output unit 102a~ The first virtual space output unit 102a outputs a virtual space to the user based on the space information acquired by the space information acquisition unit 100b. In the present disclosure, "outputting a virtual space to the user" includes executing a process for making the user recognizable of the virtual space, for example, displaying the virtual space on the display screen of the device 3.

[0037] In one embodiment, the first virtual space output unit 102a outputs an avatar corresponding to another user selected by the user via the user selection reception unit 106d described later into the virtual space. The user can act in the virtual space together with the avatars of other users.

[0038] In one embodiment, the first virtual space output unit 102a outputs, in association with a movement-related object, information regarding a usage method of the movement-related object. For example, the first virtual space output unit 102a outputs, in association with a virtual ticket issuing machine, a procedure for virtually issuing a ticket.

[0039] ~The second virtual space output unit 102c~ The second virtual space output unit 102c outputs to the user a virtual space in which a movement-related object selected by the user via the object selection reception unit 106b described later is arranged, among one or more virtual spaces.

[0040] ~The object information output unit 102b~ The object information output unit 102b outputs information about one or more movement-related objects to the user, for example, in a list format. The information about the movement-related objects includes, for example, information about the name, provided virtual space, usage method, appearance, etc. of the movement-related objects. The object information output unit 102b may output information about the movement-related objects in a superimposed manner with respect to the virtual space output by the first virtual space output unit 102a or the second virtual space output unit 102c.

[0041] ~User information output unit 102d~ The user information output unit 102d outputs information about one or more other users. The information about the other users includes, for example, information about the user name, user ID, appearance of the avatar, etc. of the other users. The user information output unit 102d may output information about the other users in a superimposed manner with respect to the virtual space output by the first virtual space output unit 102a or the second virtual space output unit 102c.

[0042] ~Route information output unit 102e~ The route information output unit 102e outputs the route information acquired by the route information acquisition unit 100a to the user.

[0043] In one embodiment, the route information output unit 102e outputs one or more movement events for reaching the destination in the order to be executed. At this time, the route information output unit 102e may output, for each of the one or more movement events, a movement-related object associated with the movement event. The route information output unit 102e may output the route information in a superimposed manner with respect to the virtual space output by the first virtual space output unit 102a or the second virtual space output unit 102c.

[0044] In one embodiment, the route information output unit 102e may output information about events held near the destination together with the route information. The information about the events includes information about the title of the event, the content of the event, the highlights of the event, and the schedule of the event, etc.

[0045] In the present disclosure, "outputting information" may be either displaying the information as an image or reproducing it as sound.

[0046] ―Detection unit 104― The detection unit 104 detects the user's wearing of the device 3. The detection unit 104 may detect the user's wearing of the device 3, for example, based on the measurement value of a contact sensor provided in the device 3.

[0047] ―Reception unit 106― The reception unit 106 includes an operation reception unit 106a, an object selection reception unit 106b, a destination reception unit 106c, and a user selection reception unit 106d.

[0048] ~Operation reception unit 106a~ The operation reception unit 106a receives movement-related operations including operations on movement-related objects from the user. The movement-related operations may be, for example, any of the following. (1) An operation of moving within the virtual space using an object that reproduces a moving body within the virtual space (for example, an operation of boarding a virtual airplane) (2) An operation of using an object for virtually executing procedures for boarding a moving body (for example, an operation of virtually issuing a ticket using a virtual ticket issuing machine) (3) An operation of moving on foot within the virtual space

[0049] ~Object selection reception unit 106b~ The object selection reception unit 106b receives the user's selection of at least one of one or more movement-related objects output by the object information output unit 102b. In response to this, the second virtual space output unit 102c outputs to the user the virtual space in which the selected movement-related object exists among one or more virtual spaces.

[0050] ~Destination reception unit 106c~ Based on the detection by the detection unit 104 that the user has worn the device 3, the destination reception unit 106c receives the designation of the second location from the user.

[0051] In one embodiment, the destination reception unit 106c receives the designation of the second location by analyzing the movement of the body of the user wearing the device 3. Analyzing the movement of the user's body may be any of the following, for example.

[0052] (1) Analyzing oral instructions by the user using voice analysis technology Based on, for example, the user verbally uttering the name of a station, the destination reception unit 106c receives the station as the designation of the second location.

[0053] (2) Analyzing the movement of the user's hands, feet or line of sight using image analysis technology Based on, for example, the user's fixation on one of the plurality of candidate locations displayed on the device 3, the destination reception unit 106c receives the one as the second location.

[0054] ~User Selection Reception Unit 106d~ The user selection reception unit 106d receives the user's selection for at least one of one or more other users output by the user information output unit 102d. In response, the first virtual space output unit 102a outputs an avatar corresponding to the other user selected by the user into the virtual space.

[0055] In the present disclosure, "the reception unit 106 receives an operation or selection from the user" may mean that the device 3 physically receives an operation or selection from the user in the real space, or may mean that, for example, a movement-related object in the virtual space virtually receives an operation or selection from the user.

[0056] ―Movement Control Unit 108― The movement control unit 108 controls the movement of the user in the virtual space based on the movement-related operations received by the operation reception unit 106a from the user. Controlling the movement of the user in the virtual space may be any of the following, for example. (1) Controlling whether or not the user can move to a part of the area in the virtual space (2) Moving the user within the virtual space (3) Changing the speed of the user's movement within the virtual space

[0057] When the movement control unit 108 moves the user within the virtual space, it may be possible to move the user at a speed higher than that at which a human moves in the real space. For example, when a human moves on foot in the real space, the speed is on average about 4 km / h to 6 km / h, whereas when the user moves on foot in the virtual space, the movement control unit 108 may be able to move the user at a speed corresponding to about 10 km / h to 15 km / h.

[0058] (Memory unit 12) The memory unit 12 stores various information for the operation of the device 3 in addition to various programs or instructions executed by the control unit 10.

[0059] (Network interface unit 14) The network interface unit 14 realizes communication with other devices via the communication network 5.

[0060] [Communication network 5] The communication network 5 realizes communication between the information processing device 2 and the device 3. The communication network 5 realizes communication based on, for example, the TCP / IP standard.

[0061] <3. Operation> [First Embodiment] Referring to FIGS. 4 and 5, an example of the operation of the system 1 according to the first embodiment will be described. In the first embodiment, the basic aspect of the system 1 is shown. FIG. 4 is a sequence diagram for explaining the operation from when the device 3 is worn by the user until the virtual space is output. FIG. 5 is a diagram conceptually showing how the user acts in the virtual space.

[0062] (Wearing of Device 3 to Output of Virtual Space (FIG. 4)) First, the device 3 detects being worn by the user (S100). In response to this, the device 3 accepts the designation of the destination by applying voice analysis technology to the user's oral instructions (S102).

[0063] Next, the device 3 acquires route information regarding the route for moving from the starting point to the destination (S104). Note that the starting point may be acquired by the GPS device provided in the device 3 or may be specified by the user. In this example, the device 3 will be described as acquiring route information regarding the route for moving from the starting point, transferring between airplane A and train B, and reaching the destination. Thereafter, the device 3 transmits an HTTP request including the route information to the information processing device 2 (S106).

[0064] In response to this, the information processing device 2 first transmits an HTTP request for requesting space information regarding a virtual airport that reproduces the airport where airplane A departs and arrives in the virtual space to the airline server device 4a (S108). In response to this, the airline server device 4a transmits an HTTP response including the space information regarding the virtual airport to the information processing device 2 (S110).

[0065] Next, the information processing device 2 transmits an HTTP request for requesting space information regarding a virtual station that reproduces the station where train B departs and arrives in the virtual space to the railway company server device 4b (S112). In response to this, the railway company server device 4b transmits an HTTP response including the space information regarding the virtual station to the information processing device 2 (S114).

[0066] As a response to the HTTP request received from device 3 in S106, the information processing apparatus 2 transmits an HTTP response including spatial information regarding the virtual airport and the virtual station to device 3 (S116). In response to this, device 3 outputs a virtual space including the virtual airport and the virtual station (S118).

[0067] (User's Actions within the Virtual Space (Fig. 5)) Fig. 5 conceptually shows a state where a virtual airport and a virtual station, each being a virtual space, are included in the entire virtual space. In this example, it is assumed that the user within the virtual space moves to a virtual destination reproduced within the virtual space as the destination via the virtual airport and the virtual station.

[0068] First, device 3 receives a walking operation for moving a user (which can also be called the user's avatar) within the virtual space to the virtual ticket vending machine v1 on foot (S200). Next, device 3 receives a ticket issuing operation from the user for virtually issuing a ticket at the virtual ticket vending machine v1 (S202). As a result, the user within the virtual space can move to the area beyond the virtual boarding gate v3 within the virtual airport. That is, the user within the virtual space can pass through the virtual boarding gate v3 within the virtual airport.

[0069] Next, device 3 receives a walking operation for moving the user within the virtual space on foot from the virtual ticket vending machine v1 to the virtual boarding gate v3 (S204). In response to the user within the virtual space arriving at the virtual boarding gate v3, device 3 receives a passing operation for the user within the virtual space to pass through the virtual boarding gate v3 (S206). The passing operation is, for example, an operation related to using the ticket virtually issued at the virtual ticket vending machine v1. If the user did not virtually issue a ticket at the virtual ticket vending machine v1 in S202, the user cannot pass through the virtual boarding gate v3 within the virtual airport.

[0070] Next, the device 3 receives a boarding operation for the user in the virtual space to board the virtual airplane v5 (S208). As a result, the user in the virtual space is transported to the virtual station.

[0071] After the user in the virtual space is transported virtually, the device 3 receives a passing operation for the user in the virtual space to pass through the virtual boarding gate v7 (S210). Next, the device 3 receives a walking operation for moving the user in the virtual space on foot from the virtual boarding gate v7 to the virtual ticket vending machine v9 (S212). Next, the device 3 receives a ticket purchase operation from the user for virtually purchasing a ticket at the virtual ticket vending machine v9 (S214). As a result, the user in the virtual space can move to the area beyond the virtual ticket barrier v11 of the virtual station. That is, the user in the virtual space can pass through the virtual ticket barrier v11 of the virtual station.

[0072] Next, the device 3 receives a walking operation for moving the user in the virtual space on foot from the virtual ticket vending machine v9 to the virtual ticket barrier v11 (S216). In response to the user in the virtual space arriving at the virtual ticket barrier v11, the device 3 receives a passing operation for the user in the virtual space to pass through the virtual ticket barrier v11 (S218). If the user did not virtually purchase a ticket at the virtual ticket vending machine v9 in S214, the user cannot pass through the virtual ticket barrier v11 within the virtual station.

[0073] Next, the device 3 receives a boarding operation for the user in the virtual space to board the virtual train v13 (S220). After a predetermined time has elapsed, the device 3 receives a getting-off operation for the user in the virtual space to get off the virtual train v13 (S222). As a result, the user in the virtual space arrives at the virtual destination.

[0074] Note that the walking operation, ticket issuance operation, passing operation, boarding operation, ticket purchase operation, and alighting operation described in the first embodiment are all examples of movement-related operations. Also, the virtual ticket issuer v1, virtual boarding gate v3, virtual airplane v5, virtual boarding gate v7, virtual ticket vending machine v9, virtual ticket barrier v11, and virtual train v13 are all examples of movement-related objects.

[0075] [Second Embodiment] Device 3 may output information regarding movement-related objects to the user and receive a selection by the user for at least one of them. In this case, Device 3 outputs to the user the virtual space in which the movement-related object selected by the user is arranged among one or more virtual spaces. Exemplifying with reference to FIG. 5, Device 3 may display information regarding the virtual ticket issuer v1, virtual boarding gate v3, virtual airplane v5, virtual boarding gate v7, virtual ticket vending machine v9, virtual ticket barrier v11, and virtual train v13 to the user in, for example, a list format. When the user selects, for example, the virtual ticket issuer v1 from among these, Device 3 outputs to the user the virtual airport, which is the virtual space where the virtual ticket issuer v1 exists. Alternatively, when the user selects, for example, the virtual ticket vending machine v9 from among the above-described movement-related objects, Device 3 outputs to the user the virtual station, which is the virtual space where the virtual ticket vending machine v9 exists.

[0076] [Third Embodiment] Device 3 may output information regarding one or more other users and receive a selection by the user for at least one of them. In this case, Device 3 outputs into the virtual space an avatar corresponding to the other user selected by the user. The user can move his or her own avatar within the virtual space and can also recognize the avatars of other users via the virtual space. Similarly, other users can move their own avatars within the virtual space and can also recognize the avatar of the user via the virtual space. Thereby, the user can move to the destination while, for example, learning from other users how to operate the virtual ticket issuer v1 or the virtual ticket vending machine v9.

[0077] [Fourth Embodiment] Device 3 may output, as route information, by associating a movement-related object related to each of one or more movement events. Illustrated with reference to FIG. 5, Device 3 may, for example, display the following (1) to (5) to the user in a list format. (1) Move to the ticket vending machine... Virtual ticket vending machine v1 (2) Board the plane... Virtual boarding gate v3, virtual plane v5 (3) Move to the ticket dispenser... Virtual ticket dispenser v9 (4) Board the train... Virtual ticket barrier v1, virtual train v13 (5) Get off the train... Virtual train v13

[0078] [Fifth Embodiment] Device 3 may output by associating information regarding the usage method of the movement-related object with the movement-related object. Illustrated with reference to FIG. 5, Device 3 may, for example, display, by associating information regarding the usage method of virtual ticket vending machine v1 (for example, an explanation of the content of the display screen of virtual ticket vending machine v1 and a method of virtually issuing a ticket, etc.) with virtual ticket vending machine v1. In addition, Device 3 may, for example, display, by associating information regarding the usage method of virtual train v13 (for example, the name of the station to get off and the train type (for example, all stops, semi-express, express, etc.)) with virtual train v13.

[0079] [4. Effects] System 1 according to one aspect of the present disclosure is a system 1 that allows a user to virtually experience part or all of an event related to movement to a destination (movement event). The system 1 includes a route information acquisition unit 100a that acquires route information regarding a route for moving from a first point (departure point) in the real space to a second point (destination) in the real space. The route information includes event information regarding one or more events (movement events) for moving on the route. The system 1 further includes a space information acquisition unit 100b that acquires space information regarding one or more virtual spaces based on the route information. The one or more virtual spaces correspond to the real space on the route, and one or more objects (movement-related objects) related to executing each of the one or more events (movement events) are arranged therein. The system 1 further includes an operation reception unit 106a that receives a movement-related operation including an operation on one or more objects (movement-related objects) from the user, a movement control unit 108 that controls the movement of the user within one or more virtual spaces based on the movement-related operation received by the operation reception unit 106a from the user, and a first virtual space output unit 102a that outputs one or more virtual spaces to the user.

[0080] According to the system 1, the user can experience the movement to the destination within the virtual space. As a result, the user can experience in a realistic manner the method of moving to the destination in advance, even when, for example, the user is about to move to a place that the user visits for the first time due to business trips or the like. As a result, the user can eliminate anxiety regarding the movement to the destination. Further, according to the system 1, it is possible to activate the behavior of users who refrain from going out due to various reasons, such as users who are not used to business trips and / or traveling overseas, and enhance the economic effect.

[0081] In one embodiment, the one or more events (movement events) include boarding a moving body that moves on the route. In one embodiment, the one or more objects (movement-related objects) include those for virtually executing procedures for boarding the moving body. In one embodiment, the movement control unit 108 controls whether or not the user can move to a partial area within one or more virtual spaces.

[0082] For example, when a user tries to move to a place they are visiting for the first time, the user may not know how to use a moving object such as an airplane or a train. According to these configurations, it is possible to experience in a realistic manner in advance how to use such a moving object.

[0083] In one embodiment, the system 1 further includes an object information output unit 102c that outputs information about one or more objects (movement-related objects) to the user, an object selection reception unit 106b that receives a user's selection for at least one of the one or more objects (movement-related objects), and a second virtual space output unit 102b that outputs to the user a virtual space in which the object (movement-related object) selected by the user is arranged among one or more virtual spaces.

[0084] According to this configuration, it is possible to particularly focus on experiencing the virtual space in which the movement-related object selected by the user exists.

[0085] In one embodiment, the system 1 further includes a detection unit 104 that detects the user's wearing of the device 3, and a destination reception unit 106c that receives a designation of a second location (destination) from the user based on the detection unit 104 detecting the user's wearing of the device 3. The route information acquisition unit 100a acquires route information based on the destination reception unit 106c receiving the designation of the second location (destination). In one embodiment, the destination reception unit 106c receives the designation of the second location (destination) by analyzing the movement of the body of the user wearing the device 3.

[0086] According to these configurations, the user can specify the destination in a more convenient manner.

[0087] In one embodiment, the system 1 further includes a user information output unit that outputs information about one or more other users, and a user selection reception unit 106d that receives a selection by the user for at least one of the one or more other users. The first virtual space output unit 102a outputs an avatar corresponding to the other user selected by the user in one or more virtual spaces.

[0088] According to this configuration, the user can move within the virtual space while receiving guidance from other users.

[0089] In one embodiment, the system 1 further includes a route information output unit 102e that outputs route information to the user.

[0090] According to this configuration, the user can comprehensively grasp the movement procedure to the destination.

[0091] In one embodiment, the first virtual space output unit 102a further outputs, for each of one or more objects (movement-related objects), information related to the usage method of the object (movement-related object) in association therewith.

[0092] According to this configuration, the user can more easily grasp the usage method of the movement-related object in the virtual space.

[0093] Note that the above-described effects are merely examples and do not limit the scope of application of the present disclosure.

[0094] <5. Hardware Configuration> Referring to FIG. 6, an example of the hardware configuration when each device included in the system 1 described above is realized by a computer 70 will be described. Note that the functions of each device can also be realized by dividing them among a plurality of devices.

[0095] As shown in FIG. 6, the computer 70 includes a processor 700, a storage device 702, an input I / F 704, a data I / F 706, a communication I / F 708, and a display device 710.

[0096] The processor 700 controls various processes in the computer 70 by executing programs stored in the storage device 702. For example, each functional unit included in the control unit 10 of the device 3 can be realized by the processor 700 executing a program stored in the storage device 702.

[0097] The storage device 702 is a storage medium such as a RAM (Random Access Memory), for example. The RAM temporarily stores program codes of programs executed by the processor 700 and data required during program execution.

[0098] The storage device 702 is also a non-volatile storage medium such as a hard disk drive (HDD) or a flash memory. The storage device 702 stores an operating system and various programs for realizing the above configurations. The storage medium storing the various programs may be a non-transitory computer readable medium. In addition, the storage device 702 can store a table for registering various information and a DB for managing the table. Such programs and data are referred to by the processor 700 by being loaded into the storage device 702 as necessary.

[0099] The input I / F 704 is a device for receiving inputs from the user. Specific examples of the input I / F 704 include a camera, a button, a microphone, a keyboard, a mouse, a touch panel, various sensors, wearable devices, etc. The input I / F 704 may be connected to the computer 70 via an interface such as USB (Universal Serial Bus), for example.

[0100] The data I / F 706 is a device for inputting data from outside the computer 70. Specific examples of the data I / F 706 include a drive device for reading data stored in various storage media. It is also conceivable that the data I / F 706 is provided outside the computer 70. In that case, the data I / F 706 is connected to the computer 70 via an interface such as USB, for example.

[0101] The communication I / F 708 is a device for performing data communication via the communication network 5, either wired or wirelessly, with a device outside the computer 70. It is also conceivable that the communication I / F 708 is provided outside the computer 70. In that case, the communication I / F 708 is connected to the computer 70 via an interface such as USB, for example.

[0102] The display device 710 is a device for displaying various information. Specific examples of the display device 710 include, for example, a liquid crystal display, an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) display, a display of a wearable device, etc. The display device 710 may be provided outside the computer 70. In that case, the display device 710 is connected to the computer 70 via a display cable or the like, for example. Also, when a touch panel is adopted as the input I / F 704, the display device 710 can be configured integrally with the input I / F 704.

[0103] Moreover, the components included in the various devices of the system 1 described in the above embodiment are assumed to be such that the processing defined is realized in cooperation with other hardware when the program stored in the storage device 702 is executed by the processor 700. In other words, these components are assumed as software or firmware as well as the corresponding hardware, and in both concepts, they are also described as "function", "means", "section", "processing circuit", "unit", or "module", etc., and can be read as each other.

[0104] <6. Modification Example> The matters described in the above embodiments can be appropriately changed within a non - contradictory range.

[0105] At least some of the functions of the control unit 10 of the device 3 described in the above embodiments may be provided in the information processing apparatus 2. For example, in the above embodiments, the device 3 is described as including the route information acquisition unit 100a, but the information processing apparatus 2 may include the route information acquisition unit 100a.

[0106] In the above embodiments, a virtual airport and a virtual station are exemplified as the virtual space, but it is not limited thereto. The virtual space may correspond to the outdoors of the real space, or may correspond to any feature existing in the real space.

[0107] In the above embodiments, an airplane and a train are exemplified as the moving body, and a virtual airplane, a virtual train, etc. are exemplified as the movement - related objects related thereto, but the moving body and the movement - related objects are not limited thereto. The moving body may be, for example, a taxi. The movement - related objects related to a taxi may be, for example, a virtual taxi that reproduces a taxi in the virtual space, and a virtual taxi stand that reproduces a taxi stand in the virtual space, etc. Also, the moving body may be, for example, a bus. The movement - related objects related to a bus may be, for example, a virtual bus that reproduces a bus in the virtual space, and a virtual bus stop that reproduces a bus stop in the virtual space, etc. Since the ways of taking a taxi or a bus are often different from those in Japan, especially overseas, the importance of virtual experience in advance is particularly high.

[0108] An avatar that operates by an AI (artificial intelligence) that executes natural language processing may exist in the virtual space. For example, the driver of a virtual taxi may be implemented by an AI and receive oral instructions from the user to determine the destination of the virtual taxi.

[0109] Based on receiving a movement-related operation corresponding to moving from the first physical space to the second physical space from the user, the system 1 may move the user from the first virtual space corresponding to the first physical space to the second virtual space corresponding to the second physical space. For example, based on receiving a movement-related operation corresponding to moving from the platform of line A to the platform of line B at a predetermined station from the user, the system 1 may move the user from the virtual platform corresponding to the platform of line A to the virtual platform corresponding to the platform of line B. At this time, the virtual space including the virtual platform of line A and the virtual space including the virtual platform of line B may be connected so that the user can seamlessly experience them. That is, the user may be able to move in the same way as in the physical space not only inside each of the first virtual space and the second virtual space but also in the transition region therebetween.

[0110] In the above embodiment, basically, it has been described that the user can experience movement on the target route in the virtual space regardless of where the user is in the physical space, but it is not limited to this. Specifically, the device 3 may output a virtual space in conjunction with the position in the physical space. For example, based on approaching an airport in the physical space, the device 3 may output a virtual airport to the user. In addition, based on approaching a ticket issuing machine installed at the airport in the physical space, the device 3 may output a virtual ticket issuing machine to the user. In this case, in order for the user to avoid collisions with obstacles (for example, people, walls, and structures, etc.), the device 3 may be provided with a function of detecting the approach of an obstacle and giving a warning to the user by sound or vibration based on the detection result.

[0111] When the user moves to a virtual destination via a plurality of virtual spaces, the user may be able to skip a part of the plurality of virtual spaces. For example, when the user moves to a virtual destination via the first virtual station, the second virtual station, and the virtual airport, the user may experience the movement at the first virtual station and the virtual airport and skip the movement at the second virtual station.

[0112] <7. Embodiments of the Present Disclosure> The present disclosure includes, for example, the following embodiments.

[0113] [Appendix 1] A system 1 according to an aspect of the present disclosure is a system 1 that allows a user to virtually experience part or all of an event related to movement to a destination (a movement event), and includes a route information acquisition unit 100a that acquires route information regarding a route for moving from a first point (departure point) in the real space to a second point (destination) in the real space. The route information includes event information regarding one or more events (movement events) for moving on the route. The system also includes a space information acquisition unit 100b that acquires space information regarding one or more virtual spaces based on the route information. The one or more virtual spaces correspond to the real space on the route, and one or more objects (movement-related objects) related to executing each of the one or more events (movement events) are arranged therein. The system further includes an operation reception unit 106a that receives a movement-related operation including an operation on one or more objects (movement-related objects) from the user, a movement control unit 108 that controls the movement of the user within one or more virtual spaces based on the movement-related operation received by the operation reception unit 106a from the user, and a first virtual space output unit 102a that outputs one or more virtual spaces to the user.

[0114] [Appendix 2] In the system 1 described in Appendix 1, the one or more events (movement events) may include boarding a moving body moving on the route.

[0115] [Appendix 3] In the system 1 described in Appendix 2, the one or more objects (movement-related objects) may include those for virtually executing procedures for boarding a moving body.

[0116] [Appendix 4] In the system 1 described in any one of Supplementary Notes 1 to 3, the movement control unit 108 may control whether or not the user can move to a partial area within one or more virtual spaces.

[0117] [Supplementary Note 5] The system 1 described in any one of Supplementary Notes 1 to 4 may further include an object information output unit 102c that outputs information about one or more objects (movement-related objects) to the user, an object selection reception unit 106b that receives a user's selection for at least one of the one or more objects (movement-related objects), and a second virtual space output unit 102b that outputs to the user the virtual space in which the object (movement-related object) selected by the user is arranged among the one or more virtual spaces.

[0118] [Supplementary Note 6] The system 1 described in any one of Supplementary Notes 1 to 5 may further include a detection unit 104 that detects the user's wearing of the device 3, and a destination reception unit 106c that receives a designation of a second location (destination) from the user based on the detection unit 104 detecting the user's wearing of the device 3. The route information acquisition unit 100a may acquire route information based on the destination reception unit 106c receiving the designation of the second location (destination).

[0119] [Supplementary Note 7] In the system 1 described in Supplementary Note 6, the destination reception unit 106c may receive the designation of the second location (destination) by analyzing the movement of the body of the user wearing the device 3.

[0120] [Supplementary Note 8] The system 1 described in any one of Supplementary Notes 1 to 7 may further include a user information output unit that outputs information about one or more other users, and a user selection reception unit 106d that receives a user's selection for at least one of the one or more other users. The first virtual space output unit 102a may output an avatar corresponding to the other user selected by the user within one or more virtual spaces.

[0121] [Appendix 9] The system 1 described in any one of Appendices 1 to 8 may further include a route information output unit 102e that outputs route information to the user.

[0122] [Appendix 10] In the system 1 described in any one of Appendices 1 to 9, the first virtual space output unit 102a may further output, for each of one or more objects (movement-related objects), information related to the usage method of the object (movement-related object) in association therewith.

[0123] [Appendix 11] A program according to another aspect of the present disclosure is a program for allowing a user to virtually experience part or all of an event (movement event) related to movement to a destination, and causes a computer 70 to obtain spatial information related to one or more virtual spaces based on route information related to a route for moving from a first point (departure point) in the real space to a second point (destination) in the real space, where the route information includes event information related to one or more events (movement events) for moving on the route, the one or more virtual spaces correspond to the real space on the route, and one or more objects (movement-related objects) related to executing each of the one or more events (movement events) are arranged; a spatial information acquisition means; an operation reception means for receiving a movement-related operation including an operation on one or more objects (movement-related objects) from the user; a movement control means for controlling the movement of the user in one or more virtual spaces based on the movement-related operation received by the operation reception means from the user; and a first virtual space output means for outputting the one or more virtual spaces to the user.

[0124] [Appendix 12] An information processing apparatus 2 according to another aspect of the present disclosure is an information processing apparatus 2 that allows a user to virtually experience part or all of an event related to movement to a destination (movement event). The information processing apparatus 2 includes a route information acquisition unit 100a that acquires route information regarding a route for moving from a first point (departure point) in the real space to a second point (destination) in the real space. The route information includes event information regarding one or more events (movement events) for moving on the route. The information processing apparatus 2 further includes a space information acquisition unit 100b that acquires space information regarding one or more virtual spaces based on the route information. The one or more virtual spaces correspond to the real space on the route and have one or more objects (movement-related objects) arranged therein, each object being related to the execution of one of the one or more events (movement events). The information processing apparatus 2 also includes an operation reception unit 106a that receives movement-related operations including operations on the one or more objects (movement-related objects) from the user, and a movement control unit 108 that controls the movement of the user within the one or more virtual spaces based on the operations received by the operation reception unit 106a from the user. The information processing apparatus 2 further includes a transmission unit that transmits information for outputting the one or more virtual spaces.

[0125] [Appendix 13] An information processing method according to another aspect of the present disclosure is an information processing method for virtually experiencing by a user part or all of an event related to movement to a destination (movement event), the computer 70 performing a route information acquisition step of acquiring route information related to a route for moving from a first point (departure point) in the real space to a second point (destination) in the real space, the route information including event information related to one or more events (movement events) for moving on the route; a space information acquisition step of acquiring space information related to one or more virtual spaces based on the route information, the one or more virtual spaces corresponding to the real space on the route and having one or more objects (movement-related objects) related to the execution of each of the one or more events (movement events) arranged therein; an operation reception step of receiving a movement-related operation including an operation on one or more objects (movement-related objects) from the user; a movement control step of controlling the movement of the user in one or more virtual spaces based on the operation received from the user in the operation reception step; and a transmission step of transmitting information for outputting one or more virtual spaces.

Explanation of Signs

[0126] 1…System, 2…Information processing apparatus, 3…Device, 5…Communication network, 10…Control unit, 12…Storage unit, 14…Network interface unit, 70…Computer, 100…Acquisition unit, 100a…Route information acquisition unit, 100b…Space information acquisition unit, 102…Output unit, 102a…First virtual space output unit, 102b…Object information output unit, 102b…Second virtual space output unit, 102c…Second virtual space output unit, 102c…Object information output unit, 102d…User information output unit, 102e…Route information output unit, 104…Detection unit, 106…Reception unit, 106a…Operation reception unit, 106b…Object selection reception unit, 106c…Destination reception unit, 106d…User selection reception unit, 108…Movement control unit

Claims

1. A system for allowing a user to virtually experience part or all of an event related to movement to a destination, comprising: a route information acquisition unit that acquires route information regarding a route for moving from a first point in the real space to a second point in the real space, wherein the route information includes event information regarding one or more events for moving on the route; a space information acquisition unit that acquires space information regarding one or more virtual spaces based on the route information; wherein the one or more virtual spaces correspond to the real space on the route, and a space information acquisition unit in which one or more objects related to executing each of the one or more events are arranged; an operation reception unit that receives a movement-related operation including an operation on the one or more objects from the user; a movement control unit that controls the movement of the user within the one or more virtual spaces based on the movement-related operation received by the operation reception unit from the user; a first virtual space output unit that outputs the one or more virtual spaces to the user; A system comprising.

2. The system according to claim 1, wherein the one or more events include boarding a moving body moving on the route.

3. The system according to claim 2, wherein the one or more objects include those for virtually executing procedures for boarding the moving body.

4. The system according to claim 1, wherein the movement control unit controls whether the user can move to a part of the area within the one or more virtual spaces.

5. an object information output unit that outputs information regarding the one or more objects to the user; an object selection reception unit that receives a user's selection of at least one of the one or more objects; a second virtual space output unit that outputs to the user the virtual space in which the object selected by the user is arranged among the one or more virtual spaces; The system according to claim 1, further comprising.

6. a detection unit that detects the user's wearing of a device; a destination reception unit that receives a designation of the second point from the user based on the detection unit's detection of the user's wearing of the device; further comprising The system according to claim 1, wherein the route information acquisition unit acquires the route information based on the destination reception unit's reception of the designation of the second point.

7. The system according to claim 6, wherein the destination reception unit receives the designation of the second point by analyzing the movement of the body of the user wearing the device.

8. A user information output unit that outputs information about one or more other users, A user selection reception unit that receives a selection by a user for at least one of the one or more other users, further comprising: The system according to claim 1, wherein the first virtual space output unit outputs an avatar corresponding to another user selected by the user into the one or more virtual spaces.

9. The system according to claim 1, further comprising a route information output unit that outputs the route information to the user.

10. The system according to claim 1, wherein the first virtual space output unit further outputs, for each of the one or more objects, information regarding how to use the object in association therewith.

11. A program for virtually experiencing by a user part or all of an event related to movement to a destination, causing a computer to a space information acquisition means for acquiring space information regarding one or more virtual spaces based on route information regarding a route for moving from a first point in the real space to a second point in the real space, wherein the route information includes event information regarding one or more events for moving on the route, wherein the one or more virtual spaces correspond to the real space on the route, and one or more objects related to executing each of the one or more events are arranged therein, space information acquisition means; an operation reception means for receiving a movement-related operation including an operation on the one or more objects from the user; a movement control means for controlling the movement of the user in the one or more virtual spaces based on the movement-related operation received by the operation reception means from the user; a first virtual space output means for outputting the one or more virtual spaces to the user; A program that functions as

12. An information processing apparatus for virtually experiencing by a user part or all of an event related to movement to a destination, a route information acquisition unit that acquires route information regarding a route for moving from a first point in the real space to a second point in the real space, wherein the route information includes event information regarding one or more events for moving on the route, a route information acquisition unit A spatial information acquisition unit that acquires spatial information regarding one or more virtual spaces based on the path information, wherein the one or more virtual spaces correspond to the real space on the path and one or more objects related to executing each of the one or more events are arranged, the spatial information acquisition unit; An operation reception unit that receives a movement-related operation including an operation on the one or more objects from a user; A movement control unit that controls the movement of the user within the one or more virtual spaces based on the operation received by the operation reception unit from the user; A transmission unit that transmits information for outputting the one or more virtual spaces; An information processing apparatus comprising the above.

13. An information processing method for allowing a user to virtually experience part or all of an event related to movement to a destination, causing a computer to A path information acquisition step of acquiring path information regarding a path for moving from a first point in the real space to a second point in the real space, wherein the path information includes event information regarding one or more events for moving on the path, the path information acquisition step; A spatial information acquisition step of acquiring spatial information regarding one or more virtual spaces based on the path information, wherein the one or more virtual spaces correspond to the real space on the path and one or more objects related to executing each of the one or more events are arranged, the spatial information acquisition step; An operation reception step of receiving a movement-related operation including an operation on the one or more objects from a user; A movement control step of controlling the movement of the user within the one or more virtual spaces based on the operation received from the user in the operation reception step; A transmission step of transmitting information for outputting the one or more virtual spaces; An information processing method for executing the above.

Images