Spatial information processing apparatus and control program for information processing apparatus

Abstract

To efficiently promote early action of a user in a virtual space.SOLUTION: A spatial information processing apparatus (for example, a user management server 10) according to one embodiment of the present invention includes: first setting means (for example, a setting unit 720) which sets an available region usable by a first user in a virtual space corresponding to a real space on the basis of the position of at least one of the first user and a second user in the real space; and second setting means (for example, the setting unit 720) which sets a contraction condition in a manner of being associated with the available region, the contraction condition being for gradually contract the available region from the initial size.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 7

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a setting / indicating device for a specific position on a map.

Background Art

[0002] There is known a mechanism for emphasizing on a map a road that has been traveled in the past. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a destination display system that highlights, on a map displayed on a mobile terminal having a map display function, a past traveled road that the mobile terminal has a history of traveling around the destination based on the movement history of the mobile terminal.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In a service that activates some effect for a user in a virtual space formed to correspond to the real space, the width of the activity area in which the user can act in the virtual space greatly affects the interest of the service. Regarding the effective period of this activity area, if there is no limit on the effective period, such as the past traveled road disclosed in Patent Document 1, the activity of the user in the activity area may stagnate.

[0005] The problem to be solved by the present invention is to efficiently promote early action by the user in the virtual space.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] To solve the above problems, the present invention sets a contraction condition for gradually contracting the available area that the user can use in the virtual space.

[0007] A spatial information processing apparatus according to an aspect of the present invention includes: a first setting means for setting an available area that can be used by a first user in a virtual space corresponding to the real space based on the position of at least one of a first user and a second user in the real space; and a second setting means for setting a contraction condition related to the available area in association with the available area so as to gradually contract the available area from an initial size.

Effects of the Invention

[0008] If the available area is contracted based on the contraction condition set according to the present invention, early actions by users who attempt to avoid the disadvantages caused by the reduction of the available area can be promoted.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0009]

Figure 1

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Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0010] [1. Embodiment] [1-1. Overview] This embodiment relates to a service that activates some effect for a user in a virtual space formed to correspond to the real space. In this embodiment, in order to efficiently promote early actions by the user in the virtual space, contraction conditions for gradually contracting the available area that can be used by the user in the virtual space are set. If the available area is contracted based on the contraction conditions, early actions by the user who tries to avoid the disadvantages due to the reduction of the available area can be promoted.

[0011] The “virtual space” refers to a virtual space conceptually formed on an information network. The virtual space includes a two-dimensional space and a three-dimensional space. The two-dimensional space is, for example, a two-dimensional map space. The virtual space is formed to correspond to the real space. The virtual space is formed, for example, to correspond geographically to the real space.

[0012] The “activity area” refers to an area in the virtual space where no usage restrictions are imposed on a specific user. The activity area of a certain user can be secured according to the location record of the user or other users in the real space. When usage restrictions are imposed on a certain area, the part where the usage restrictions within the certain area are released may be called the “released part”. When usage restrictions are imposed on a certain area, the part where the usage restrictions within the certain area are temporarily released may be called the “temporary area”. The “available area” is an area in the virtual space that can be used by a specific user and is a concept that includes the activity area.

[0013] The "activity area" can be specified by its shape, reference position, and initial size. For example, the reference position of a circular activity area is its center, and the initial size of the activity area is its radius. The activity area can contract based on contraction conditions. When the contraction conditions include a start period and an end period, the size of the activity area starts to contract from the initial size at the start period and becomes the end period size at the end period. The end period size may be a predetermined size that is not zero, or it may be zero. The predetermined size may be a fixed value or a variable value. The variable value may be set for each user or for each activity area. The current size of the activity area can be derived by calculation using the information of the activity area and the contraction conditions.

[0014] "Location record" refers to the fact that a user has actually been located at a specific position from the past to the present. The location record can be confirmed based on the acquisition history of position data or the content associated with the position data. Also, the location record can be confirmed based on log data associated with a place where the position can be specified.

[0015] "Restricted area" refers to an area in the virtual space where usage restrictions are imposed on a specific user. The restricted area may be set for the entire virtual space or only for a part of the virtual space. The usage restrictions are, for example, unfavorable treatments for the user. Unfavorable treatments for the user are, for example, restrictions that prohibit the entry of display elements associated with the user, and restrictions where a predetermined effect does not occur.

[0016] "Display element" is image data. The image data is, for example, an icon of a specific character. The character may be, for example, a copy, drawing, or imitation of a person or object existing in the real space, or a drawing of an imaginary person or object that does not exist in the real space. The character is, for example, a person, an animal, an anthropomorphic machine, a monster, etc. An icon associated with a specific user in the virtual space may be called an "avatar".

[0017] This embodiment at least includes the following forms.

[0018] 〔A〕A space information processing apparatus comprising: a first setting means for setting an available area that can be used by a first user in a virtual space corresponding to the real space based on the position of at least one of the first user and the second user in the real space; and a second setting means for setting a contraction condition related to the available area in association with the available area in order to gradually contract the available area from an initial size.

[0019] 〔B〕A control program that causes a computer of an information processing apparatus to realize: a first setting function for setting an available area that can be used by a first user in a virtual space corresponding to the real space based on the position of at least one of the first user and the second user in the real space; and a second setting function for setting a contraction condition related to the available area in association with the available area in order to gradually contract the available area from an initial size. Note that the control program may be non-temporarily recorded on a recording medium.

[0020] 〔C〕A control method for an information processing apparatus, including: a first setting step for setting an available area that can be used by a first user in a virtual space corresponding to the real space based on the position of at least one of the first user and the second user in the real space; and a second setting step for setting a contraction condition related to the available area in association with the available area in order to gradually contract the available area from an initial size.

[0021] The "space information processing apparatus" in the above [A] is preferably configured as a server-side apparatus that provides a predetermined service to a client-side apparatus via a communication network in a client-server type information processing system. The client-side apparatus may be a device that can be carried by a user or a device that can be installed in a moving body. The client-side apparatus functions as a display device. Note that the space information processing apparatus according to the embodiment may also be an apparatus that operates independently. In this case, the display of the space information processing apparatus functions as a display device.

[0022] The following technical limitations may be added to the "Spatial Information Processing Device" in [A] above. Similarly, the same technical limitations may be added to the "Control Program" in [B] above and the "Control Method" in [C] above, respectively.

[0023] (1) When the second setting means determines that the first user satisfies a first condition, the second setting means updates the contraction condition related to the available area so that the progress of the contraction of the available area is suppressed. The first condition is, for example, the burden of a suppression price, the use of an item that can be obtained by bearing the suppression price, the use of an item that can be obtained within a predetermined game, or a clearance privilege of the predetermined game. Thereby, early actions for suppressing the progress of the reduction of the available area can be promoted.

[0024] (2) When the first setting means determines that the first user satisfies a second condition, the first setting means restores the available area, and the second setting means newly sets the contraction condition related to the available area in association with the available area so as to gradually contract the restored available area from the initial size. The second condition is, for example, the burden of a restoration price, the use of an item that can be obtained by bearing the restoration price, the use of an item that can be obtained within a predetermined game, or a clearance privilege of the predetermined game. Thereby, early actions for restoring the available area can be promoted.

[0025] (3) When the first setting means determines that the first user satisfies the second condition including a greater burden of a restoration price as the progress of the contraction related to the available area before restoration advances, the first setting means restores the available area. Thereby, earlier actions for restoring the available area can be promoted.

[0026] (4) When the second setting means determines that the first user satisfies a third condition, the second setting means updates the contraction condition related to the available area so that the available area expands. The third condition is, for example, the burden of an expansion price, the use of an item that can be obtained by bearing the expansion price, the use of an item that can be obtained within a predetermined game, or a clearance privilege of the predetermined game. Thereby, early actions for expanding the available area can be promoted.

[0027] (5) When the first user satisfies the third condition including the burden of the expansion consideration, the second setting means determines the initial size after expansion according to the size of the expansion consideration. Thereby, for example, the larger the burden, the larger the expansion can be made.

[0028] [1-2. Terms] In this specification, terms are used as follows.

[0029] (1) "Predetermined position" is a position set in the virtual space. The predetermined position is, for example, the position of a spot arranged in the virtual space. "Predetermined effect" is a device set at the predetermined position. The device is, for example, a privilege set for each spot arranged in the virtual space. The privilege is, for example, a favorable treatment for the user. The favorable treatment for the user is, for example, the granting of an item, the granting of a monetary value.

[0030] (2) "Predetermined action targeting a predetermined position" is, for example, an operation of bringing an avatar that can move in the virtual space closer to the predetermined position, an action of a user who can move in the real space approaching the real position corresponding to the predetermined position, an operation of releasing the activation restriction of the predetermined effect associated with the predetermined position by applying position data indicating the vicinity of the predetermined position in a state where an avatar that can move in the virtual space is in the vicinity of the predetermined position.

[0031] (3) "Location information" is information indicating a specific location. Information indicating a specific location includes at least the acquisition history of location data, the content associated with the location data, and the log data associated with the place where the location can be specified. The acquisition history of location data is a set of location data continuously acquired by a navigation device. The navigation device may be a device carried by a user or a device installed in a moving body (e.g., an automobile, a bicycle). The content associated with the location data includes at least image data with a geotag added and upload data with location data added. The image data is, for example, still image data or moving image data. The upload data is, for example, post data on an SNS (Social Networking Service) or article data on a blog (blog, weblog). The place where the location can be specified is a store, facility, or establishment existing in the real space. The log data associated with the place where the location can be specified is the purchase history of goods or the usage history of services at the place where the location can be specified. The usage history of services is, for example, the usage history of a lodging facility, the usage history of a play facility, or the usage history of a means of transportation.

[0032] (4) The "first part" defined to include the corresponding location refers to the peripheral area of the corresponding location. The peripheral area of the corresponding location is a region of a predetermined shape based on the corresponding location and includes the corresponding location. The peripheral area of the corresponding location is, for example, a circular area centered on the corresponding location. The size of the circular area can be arbitrarily set.

[0033] (5) The "connection relationship" between two regions includes a direct connection relationship and an indirect connection relationship. The direct connection relationship is a relationship in which both regions at least partially overlap. On the other hand, the indirect connection relationship is a relationship in which both regions are connected through other regions that each have a direct connection relationship. A region that has no connection relationship with other regions may be generated by the application of location information. In addition, a region or group of regions that has no connection relationship with other regions may be referred to as an "enclave" in the following description.

[0034] (6) The "displacement position" refers to the position after displacement when the corresponding position is displaced by an operation of displacing the corresponding position. The "second part" defined to include the displacement position refers to the peripheral area of the displacement position. The peripheral area of the displacement position is an area of a predetermined shape based on the displacement position and includes the displacement position. The peripheral area of the displacement position is, for example, a rectangular area including the displacement position. The size and shape of the rectangular area can be arbitrarily set. In particular, when the second part is defined to be a path for connecting two non-connected areas, the size and shape of the rectangular area are determined so that overlapping parts are formed with the two areas respectively.

[0035] (7) The "operation of displacing the corresponding position" is, for example, an operation of moving (shifting) an object related to the corresponding position. The operation of moving an object is an operation of sliding an object visually representing at least the contour of the release part including the corresponding position in an arbitrary direction and with an arbitrary size on the screen. When a mouse is used as the input device, the sliding operation is, for example, a drag-and-drop operation of dragging an object and dropping it at a desired position. When a touch panel is used as the input device, the sliding operation is, for example, a swipe operation starting from the display area of the object and ending at a desired position. The shape and size may be changed when displacing the object.

[0036] (8) A predetermined "human relationship" refers to a relationship in which two-way communication can be made. A relationship in which two-way communication can be made may be a temporary relationship or a semi-permanent relationship that continues until it is terminated by at least one of the intentions. A relationship in which two-way communication can be made is, for example, a friendship formed by the explicit commitment of both parties, a collaborative relationship in which something is executed in cooperation. Other users having a collaborative relationship may be friends or enemies.

[0037] (9) "Game" refers to an electronic game provided at least in part in an online game service. In a broad sense, it refers to the game service itself, and in a narrow sense, it refers to individual stages that make up the game service. "Player" refers to a user of the game service. "Play" means that a player advances and plays the game.

[0038] (10) "Single play" means play by a single player. "Cooperative play" means synchronous play by a plurality of players in a cooperative relationship. In cooperative play, a cooperative relationship is formed between a player (host) who hosts the cooperative play of the game and recruits friends, and a player (guest) who applies for the recruitment and participates in the cooperative play of the game, and the progress of the play is synchronized among the players.

Example

[0039] [2. Example] [2-1. Overview] (1) Service of the example This example relates to a game service (hereinafter referred to as the "service of the example") provided at least in part online. In the service of the example, an electronic game (broad sense of the game) is provided to the player, in which the player sequentially operates four characters that make up the deck by a predetermined action and sequentially challenges a plurality of stages (narrow sense of the game) prepared in the game. Hereinafter, the above stage will be referred to as a "quest".

[0040] (2) Solo play, multiplayer There are two forms of play for the quest play: solo play (single play) in which one player challenges alone, and multiplayer (cooperative play) in which two to four players challenge cooperatively. In multiplayer, a cooperative relationship is formed between a host who hosts the multiplayer and recruits friends, and a guest who applies for the recruitment and participates in the multiplayer, and the progress of the play is synchronized among the players.

[0041] (3) Virtual map space, spot, spot effect FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram of an overview of the service according to the embodiment. In the service according to the embodiment, a virtual map space 100 (virtual space) formed to geographically correspond to the real space is prepared. A large number of spots (predetermined positions) are arranged in the virtual map space 100 (spots 111 and 121 in FIG. 1(a)). A spot effect (predetermined effect) is set for each spot. In addition, a vicinity range which is a proximity criterion is defined for each spot (ranges 112 and 122 in FIG. 1(a)).

[0042] The player can move his / her avatar 130 (display element) within the virtual map space 100 by a predetermined operation or a predetermined action. The predetermined operation is an operation in which the player displaces his / her avatar 130. The predetermined action is an action in which the player himself / herself displaces within the real space. The avatar 130 can move within the virtual map space 100 in conjunction with or without being in conjunction with the movement of the player in the real space. When the avatar 130 enters, for example, the range 112 in the virtual map space 100, the spot effect set for the spot 111 is activated (FIG. 1(b)). By the activation of the spot effect, for example, a spot privilege is given to the player.

[0043] [2-2. Features] (1) Restriction of the activity area FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram of the features of the service according to the embodiment. In the service according to the embodiment, there is a restriction on the activity area (usable area) of the player in the virtual map space 100. Specifically, in the initial state, a usage restriction is imposed on the entire area of the virtual map space 100 (FIG. 2(a)). Due to this usage restriction, the spot effects set for the spots 111 and 121 in the initial state cannot be activated.

[0044] The usage restrictions imposed on the entire virtual map space 100 are partially and temporarily lifted based on the player's location record in the real space. Specifically, based on the position data (location information) indicating the player's current position (specific position), the usage restrictions imposed on the area 142 (first part), which is defined to include the position 141 (corresponding position) within the virtual map space 100 corresponding to the current position, are temporarily lifted, and the area 142 becomes a temporary activity area (released part, temporary area) (Fig. 2(b)). When the avatar 130 moves within the activity area and enters the range 122, the spot effect set at the spot 121 is activated.

[0045] The temporary activity area shrinks as time passes. Specifically, based on the conditions (shrinking conditions) set in association with the area 142, the area 142 gradually shrinks (Fig. 2(c)). The spot effect set at the spot 121 can be activated while the spot 121 is inside any of the activity areas. When the spot 121 is outside any of the activity areas, the spot effect set at the spot 121 cannot be activated.

[0046] (2) Application of Performance Information Fig. 3 is an explanatory diagram of the features of the service of the embodiment. In the service of the embodiment, the usage restrictions imposed on the entire virtual map space 100 can be partially and temporarily lifted based on the location record of the player or other players from the past to the present in the real space. Specifically, when the player performs an instruction operation (operation to apply) to apply the performance information (location information) indicating a specific position (specific position) in the real space, the usage restrictions imposed on the area (first part), which is defined to include the position (corresponding position) in the virtual space corresponding to the position, are temporarily lifted.

[0047] For example, when the above-described instruction operation is performed, the usage restrictions imposed on region 152 (first part) including position 151 (corresponding position) and region 162 (first part) including position 161 (corresponding position) are temporarily released respectively, and they become active regions (Fig. 3(a)). Note that the achievement information is, for example, content associated with position data. The content associated with position data is a photo (image data) with a geotag added thereto or SNS posting data (upload data) with position data added thereto. These achievement information can be applied to the virtual map space 100 of the player on condition that the player consumes, for example, a predetermined item (dedicated item, virtual currency item).

[0048] (3) Diversion of Achievement Information The active region (released part) derived from the specific position indicated by the achievement information may not be in a connection relationship with other active regions. For example, the active region 152 derived from position 151 is an enclave not in a connection relationship with region 142, and the avatar 130 cannot move into it. In the service of the embodiment, the active region can be displaced based on the player's location history from the past to the present in the real space. Specifically, the center position (corresponding position) of any one active region is displaced in the direction of the midpoint (displacement position) of the line segment connecting the center positions of any two active regions (Shift) When an operation to displace is performed by the player, the usage restriction imposed on the region (second part) defined to include the midpoint of the line segment is partially and temporarily released.

[0049] For example, when a shift operation to displace the object representing the active region 162 in the direction indicated by the arrow in the figure is performed (Fig. 3(b)), the midpoint between position 141 and position 151 is specified based on the direction and magnitude of the shift of the object, position 161 is displaced to position 163 of the midpoint, and a rectangular region 164 that includes position 163 and connects the active region 142 and the active region 152 is formed (Fig. 3(c)). At this time, the usage restriction imposed on the region 164 is partially and temporarily released, and a restriction on the activation of the spot effect is imposed.

[0050] [2-3. Configuration of the System in the Embodiment] [2-3-1. Network Configuration] FIG. 4 illustrates the network configuration of the system in the embodiment. The system in the embodiment provides the services in the embodiment to users.

[0051] As illustrated in FIG. 4, the system in the embodiment includes a user management server 10 that manages users (players) of the services in the embodiment, a data management server 20 that manages data related to the services in the embodiment, and a plurality of user terminals 30 (30-1, 30-2,... 30-n) (n: natural number) used by a plurality of users respectively.

[0052] The user management server 10 and the user terminal 30 can exchange data through a communication network 40. The data management server 20 can access a built-in or externally connectable storage 21. The user management server 10 can access the data stored in the storage 21 via the data management server 20.

[0053] The communication network 40 may include at least any one of existing networks such as the Internet, a mobile phone network, a wireless WAN (Wireless Wide Area Network), a wireless LAN (Wireless Local Area Network), and Ethernet (registered trademark).

[0054] (1) User Management Server The user management server 10 is a server device (computer) installed with a web server program and an application program (control program). The user management server 10 causes the data management server 20 to obtain necessary data from the storage 21 in response to a request and provide (respond) it to the requester. Also, the user management server 10 causes the data management server 20 to register necessary data in the storage 21 in response to a request. Further, the user management server 10 executes various processes to provide the services of the embodiment. Note that a server system may be configured by cooperating a plurality of server devices to share the functions of the user management server 10 or distribute the load on the user management server 10.

[0055] (2) Data management server The data management server 20 is a server device (computer) installed with a DB (Data Base) server program. The data management server 20 constitutes a DBMS (Data Base Management System) together with the storage 21. The data management server 20 obtains necessary data from the storage 21 in response to a request (request) and provides (responds) it to the requester. Also, the data management server 20 registers necessary data in the storage 21 in response to a request (request). The storage 21 is a storage device that stores data related to the services of the embodiment. Note that a server system may be configured by cooperating a plurality of server devices to share the functions of the data management server 20 or distribute the load on the data management server 20.

[0056] (3) User terminal The user terminal 30 is a user device (computer) installed with a predetermined game program. In this embodiment, as the user device, a general-purpose portable device (e.g., mobile phone, smartphone, tablet terminal, tablet PC, wearable device, etc.) or a general-purpose processing device (e.g., PC) capable of installing a program can be used.

[0057] [2-3-2. Electrical Configuration] (1) Electrical Configuration of Server Device FIG. 5 illustrates the electrical configuration of the server device. The server device illustrated in FIG. 5 includes a control processing device 510 including a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and a ROM (Read Only Memory), a main storage device 520 including a RAM (Random Access Memory), an auxiliary storage device 530 including an HDD (Hard Disc Drive), an input device 540 including a mouse and a keyboard, an output device 550 including a display and a speaker, and a communication control device 560 including a network interface card. Note that a device such as an MPU (Micro-Processing Unit) or a DSP (Digital Signal Processor) may be used instead of the CPU.

[0058] The main memory device 520, the auxiliary memory device 530, the input device 540, the output device 550, and the communication control device 560 are each connected to the control processing device 510 via a bus line. The control processing device 510: (1) reads the program stored in the auxiliary memory device 530 onto the main memory device 520; (2) acquires data from at least one of the input device 540, the auxiliary memory 530, and the communication control device 560 according to the instructions of the program; (3) performs arithmetic operations and processing on the acquired data according to the procedures specified in the program; and (4) provides the arithmetic-processed and processed data to at least one of the auxiliary memory device 530, the output device 550, and the communication control device 560.

[0059] (2) Electrical Configuration of the User Device FIG. 6 illustrates the electrical configuration of the user device. The user device illustrated in FIG. 6 includes at least a DSP 611 that constitutes a control processing unit, a RAM 621 that constitutes a main memory unit, a ROM 622 and an EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory) 623 that constitute an auxiliary memory unit, a touch panel display 631 that constitutes an input unit and a display unit, a speaker 632 that constitutes an audio output unit, a NIC (Network Interface Controller) 641 and a wireless LAN (Local Area Network) chip 642 that constitute a communication control unit, and a GPS (Global Positioning System) unit 651 that constitutes a positioning unit. Note that a device such as an MPU (Micro-Processing Unit) may be used instead of the DSP.

[0060] The RAM 621, the ROM 622, the EEPROM 623, the touch panel display 631, the speaker 632, the NIC 641, the wireless LAN chip 642, and the GPS unit 651 are each connected to the DSP 611 via a bus line. The DSP 611: (1) reads the program stored in the ROM 622 or the EEPROM 623 onto the RAM 621; (2) Obtain data from at least any one of the touch panel display 631, EEPROM 623, NIC 641, wireless LAN chip 642, and GPS unit 651 according to the instructions of the program, (3) after calculating and processing the obtained data according to the procedures specified in the program, (4) provide the calculated and processed data to at least any one of the EEPROM 623, touch panel display 631, speaker 632, NIC 641, and wireless LAN chip 642.

[0061] [2-3-3. Functional Configuration] (1) Overview The functions of the user management server 10 and the data management server 20 are realized by installing the server device-oriented OS (Operating System) and the program (control program) operating on the OS on the server device respectively. The program to be installed on the server device may be distributed in a state of being non-temporarily recorded on a recording medium such as a CD (Compact Disc), DVD (Digital Versatile Disk), MO disk (Magneto-Optical disk), flash memory, etc., and read from the recording medium into the server device, or may be supplied to the server device by being superimposed on a carrier wave via the communication network 40 or other communication networks.

[0062] The functions of the user terminal 30 are realized by installing the user device-oriented OS (Operating System) and the game program operating on the OS on the user device respectively. Note that instead of the game program, the functions of the user terminal 30 can also be realized by installing the Web browser program operating on the above user device-oriented OS and the game program (plugin) operating on the Web browser program on the user device respectively.

[0063] The OS for user devices is generally installed in the user devices from the initial shipment. Other programs to be installed in the user devices are generally supplied to the user devices by being superimposed on a carrier wave via the communication network 40. Note that the above-mentioned other programs to be installed in the user devices may be distributed in a state of being non-temporarily recorded on a recording medium such as a CD (Compact Disc), DVD (Digital Versatile Disk), MO disk (Magneto-Optical disk), or flash memory, and read from the recording medium into the user devices.

[0064] (2) Functional Configuration of User Management Server FIG. 7 illustrates the functional configuration of the user management server. As illustrated in FIG. 7, the user management server 10 includes a reception and provision unit 710, a setting unit 720, a triggering unit 730, an effect unit 740, a warning unit 750, and a synchronization unit 760. The reception and provision unit 710, the setting unit 720, the triggering unit 730, the effect unit 740, the warning unit 750, and the synchronization unit 760 are each configured to include a control processing device 510 and a communication control device 660 of a server device that operates as the user management server 10.

[0065] The reception and provision unit 710 receives information on a first operation for causing performance information (position information) indicating a first position (specific position) where the player (first player) has a location record to be applied. In addition, the reception and provision unit 710 receives an operation for shifting an object visually representing an activity area (release portion) on the screen.

[0066] In addition, the reception and provision unit 710 receives information on a second operation for causing performance information (position information) indicating a second position (specific position) where the player has no location record to be applied. In particular, the reception and provision unit 710 receives information on a second operation for causing performance information indicating a second position where another player (second player) in a cooperative relationship (predetermined personal relationship) with the player (first player) has a location record to be applied.

[0067] In addition, the reception and provision unit 710 provides the production instruction data output by the production unit 740 to the user terminal 30. Further, the reception and provision unit 710 provides the warning instruction data output by the warning unit 750 to the user terminal 30.

[0068] The setting unit 720 sets a restricted area in the virtual map space 100 where usage restrictions are imposed on the player. Further, when the reception and provision unit 710 receives information on an operation to which performance information (position information) is to be applied, the setting unit 720 releases the usage restrictions imposed on a part (first part) within the restricted area defined to include the position (corresponding position) in the virtual space corresponding to the position (specific position) indicated by the performance information.

[0069] When the reception and provision unit 710 receives information on an operation to displace a position (corresponding position) included in any activity area (release part) for which usage restrictions have been released according to the first operation to another position (displacement position), the setting unit 720 releases the usage restrictions imposed on a part (second part) within the restricted area defined to include the displacement position. In particular, the setting unit 720 specifies the displacement position based on the direction and magnitude of the shift of the object representing the activity area by the above operation. Further, the setting unit 720 imposes an activation restriction of a predetermined effect on the additionally released part where the usage restrictions have been released. Also, the setting unit 720 defines the second part so that a first released part and a second released part having no predetermined connection relationship with the released part are connected.

[0070] The setting unit 720 sets an activity area (temporary area) that the player (first player) can use in the virtual map space 100 based on the location performance of at least one of the player (first player) and another player (second player) in the real space. Further, the setting unit 720 associates a contraction condition related to the activity area with the activity area in order to gradually contract the activity area from the initial size. Also, the setting unit 720 updates the contraction condition related to the activity area so that the progress of the contraction of the activity area is suppressed on the condition that the player bears a consideration (deterrence consideration).

[0071] The activation unit 730 activates the spot effect (predetermined effect) set for the spot (predetermined position) when the player's avatar (display element associated with the player) approaches a spot (predetermined position) within the activity area (release area, temporary area).

[0072] The production unit 740 provides production instruction data for visually producing the state of the activity area (temporary area) shrinking to the user terminal 30 (display device) via the reception and provision unit 710. In particular, the production unit 740 provides production instruction data for shrinking an object visually representing the outline of the activity area from an initial size (a size larger than the current size) to the current size (a size approximating the current size) in a predetermined time (short time) while the center (reference position) of the activity area is included in the display range to the user terminal 30.

[0073] The warning unit 750 provides warning instruction data for outputting a predetermined warning to the player to the user terminal 30 (display device) via the reception and provision unit 710 when it is expected that a spot (predetermined position) will move out of the activity area (temporary area) within a predetermined time from now. In particular, the warning unit 750 provides warning instruction data for outputting a warning including a reminder that the spot effect is not activated only when it is expected that a spot for which the spot effect is not activated will move out of the activity area.

[0074] The synchronization unit 760 transmits cache update data to the user terminal 30 at a predetermined update timing to update the cache data held by the user terminal 30. The predetermined update timing is, for example, immediately after the game program is started on the user terminal 30 and an access is made to the user management server 10. Also, the synchronization unit 760 receives various data from the user terminal 30 at a predetermined timing and updates the data managed by the data management server 20 as necessary.

[0075] [2-3-4. Database Configuration] FIG. 8 illustrates the database configuration in the system of the embodiment. These data are stored in the storage 21 and are accessible via the data management server 20. Cache update data including at least a part of these data is provided from the user management server 10 (synchronization unit 760) to the user terminal 30 and is held as cache data in the user terminal 30.

[0076] (1) Player management information The player management information is management information that manages various parameters related to each player for each player. The player management information is added at the time of initial setting by each player and is updated before or after the start or end of play of the quest. As illustrated in FIG. 8(a), the player management information associates at least the "currency item possession number" with a "player ID (identification information)" unique to the player.

[0077] (2) Restriction management information The restriction management information is management information that manages the presence or absence of initialization of the virtual map space for each player. The restriction management information is added at the time of initial setting by each player. As illustrated in FIG. 8(b), the restriction management information associates at least a "player ID" with an "initial restriction completed flag" indicating that the initial restriction has been completed when significant. The initial restriction is to impose a usage restriction on the entire virtual map space.

[0078] (3) Release management information The release management information is management information that manages the state for each activity area. The release management information is added through a procedure for applying the achievement information of each player and is updated at any time. As illustrated in FIG. 8(c), the release management information associates at least a "player ID" and a "reference position" with a "release time" indicating the time when the usage restriction was released, an "area classification" for classifying the type of activity area, and a "status" indicating the current situation of the activity area. The "area classification" represents any one of a plurality of classifications including, for example, a circular area formed by applying achievement information and a rectangular area formed by diverting achievement information. The "status" represents any one of a plurality of states including, for example, shrinking, shrinking stopped, and disappearing.

[0079] (4) Contraction condition information The contraction condition information is information representing the contraction conditions for each activity area. The contraction condition information is added through a procedure of applying the performance information of each player and is updated at any time. As illustrated in FIG. 8(d), the contraction condition information associates at least "starting size", "ending size", "start period", and "end period" with "player ID" and "reference position". In the service of the embodiment, the "starting size" is the radius of a circle. The starting size may be a fixed distance (for example, 100 m) or a variable distance. The variable distance may vary according to, for example, the type of performance information. In the service of the embodiment, the "ending size" may be a real number greater than or equal to 0. When the ending size is 0, the activity area disappears upon the arrival of the end period. On the other hand, when the ending size is greater than 0, the activity area stops contracting and remains upon the arrival of the end period.

[0080] (5) Spot setting information The spot setting information is setting information for setting information related to spots arranged in the virtual map space. The spot setting information is added at any time by the operator of the service of the embodiment. As illustrated in FIG. 8(e), the spot setting information associates at least "position" and "spot effect (effect type ID)" with "spot ID".

[0081] (6) Spot effect setting information The spot effect setting information is setting information for setting information related to spot effects. The spot effect setting information is added at any time by the operator of the service of the embodiment. As illustrated in FIG. 8(f), the spot effect setting information associates at least "start period", "end period", "activation condition", and "content" with "effect type ID".

[0082] (7) Group management information Group management information is management information for managing a plurality of players in a cooperative relationship. The group management information is added each time a multi-player recruitment by the host starts. As illustrated in FIG. 8(g), the group management information at least associates a "group ID (identification information)" that is first in the group with a "status", a "host" (player ID), and a "guest" (player ID) that indicate the current status of the group. The "status" represents any one of a plurality of states including, for example, recruiting, valid, and disappearing.

[0083] [2-4. Information Processing Procedure] [2-4-1. Initialization Processing of Virtual Map Space] The setting unit 720 sets a restricted area in which usage restrictions are imposed on players in the virtual map space 100. Specifically, the setting unit 720 updates (makes significant) the "initial restriction flag" in the restriction management information (FIG. 8(b)). As a result, the entire area of the virtual map space 100 becomes a restricted area with usage restrictions imposed.

[0084] [2-4-2. Application Processing of Achievement Information] (1) Procedure FIG. 9 illustrates an application procedure of achievement information by the system of the embodiment. In S905, the user terminal 30 detects an operation for applying achievement information by the player. In S910, the user terminal 30 transmits operation information of the operation detected in S905 to the user management server 10. The operation information includes achievement information or data for specifying the same. The data for specifying the achievement information is, for example, a URL (Uniform Resource Locator). The user management server 10 (reception and provision unit 710) receives the operation information and specifies the position (specific position) indicated by the achievement information.

[0085] In S915, the user management server 10 (the setting unit 720) releases the usage restrictions imposed on a part (the first part) within a restricted area defined to include a position (the corresponding position) within the virtual space corresponding to the position (the specific position) indicated by the performance information. Specifically, the user management server 10 (the setting unit 720) generates release management information (Fig. 8(c)), inputs the corresponding position for the "reference position", and inputs the current date and time for the "release time". The "status" remains at the initial value (a value indicating being in the process of shrinking). In S920, the user management server 10 causes the user terminal 30 to update the display content. Through the above procedures, an activity area is secured based on the location performance of the player or other players in the real space.

[0086] (2) Supplementary The activity area may be secured based on the location performance of other players (the second players) in a cooperative relationship (a predetermined personal relationship) with the player (the first player). In S905, an operation of applying for a multiplayer game recruited by the second player is detected. In S910, the group ID of the group management information (Fig. 8(g)) of the group being recruited is transmitted together with the operation information. The user management server 10 (the reception and provision unit 710) receives the operation information and identifies the group management information. In S915, on the condition that the "status" of the group management information is updated to a value indicating valid, the activity area of the second player is reflected to the first player. At this time, similarly, the activity area of the first player is reflected to the second player.

[0087] [2-4-3. Setting Process for Shrinking Conditions] (1) Procedure The setting unit 720 sets, in association with the activity area, the shrinking conditions related to the activity area in order to gradually shrink the activity area from the initial size. Specifically, the setting unit 720 adds shrinking condition information (Fig. 8(d)) for the newly secured activity area. At this time, the "reference position" is the position (the corresponding position) in the virtual map space corresponding to the position (the specific position) indicated by the performance information. The "initial size" is a fixed value or a value corresponding to the type of performance information. The "final size" is a real number of 0 or more. The "start period" is the current date and time. The "end period" is the time when a predetermined time has elapsed from the "start period".

[0088] (2) Supplementary In the services of the embodiments, the activity areas gradually contract based on the respective contraction conditions. However, the process of gradually contracting the activity areas based on the contraction conditions does not exist in the system of the embodiments. Therefore, it is not necessary to synchronize data between the user management server 10 and the user terminal 30 regarding the contraction of the activity areas. Note that since the activity areas gradually contract from the "start period" to the "end period" from the "start period size" to the "end period size", the current size of the activity areas can be derived by calculation. That is, by multiplying the start period size by a number corresponding to the progress of the contraction period, the current size of the activity areas is derived.

[0089] (3) Variation The configuration may be such that the user management server 10 executes the process of gradually contracting the activity areas based on the contraction conditions.

[0090] [2-4-4. Contraction effect processing] (1) Procedure FIG. 10 illustrates the procedure of the contraction effect by the system of the embodiments. In S1005, the user terminal 30 receives an instruction to change the display range by the player. The change instruction is an instruction to display a portion outside the display range of the virtual map space within the display range. The change instruction is made, for example, by a swipe operation to scroll the image of the virtual map space or a selection operation of a button for switching the display range of the virtual map space. In S1010, the user terminal 30 instructs the user management server 10 to change the display range.

[0091] In S1015, the user management server 10 queries (searches) the data management server 20 for the activity area in which the reference position is included within the changed display range. In S1020, the user management server 10 (the effect unit 740, the reception and provision unit 710) provides the user terminal 30 with effect instruction data for visually effecting the state in which the activity area (temporary area) contracts. In S1025, the user terminal 30 visually effects the state in which the activity area contracts using the effect instruction data. Through the above procedure, the contraction of the activity area is impressed on the user.

[0092] (2) Content of the performance When the center (reference position) of the activity area is included in the display range, the user terminal 30 shrinks an object that visually represents the outline of the activity area from an initial size (a size larger than the current size) to the current size (a size approximating the current size) within a predetermined time (a short time). For example, when the center 141 of the activity area 142 is included in the display range (Fig. 2(b)), an object that visually represents the outline of the activity area 142 is shrunk from the initial size to the current size within a predetermined time (e.g., 1 second) (Fig. 2(c)). Thereby, the contraction of the activity area is strongly impressed on the user.

[0093] [2-4-5. Warning process] When it is predicted that a spot (predetermined position) will go out of the activity area (temporary area) within a predetermined time from now, the warning unit 750 provides warning instruction data for causing the player to output a predetermined warning to the user terminal 30 (display device) via the reception and provision unit 710. Thereby, the disadvantage due to the contraction of the activity area is impressed on the user. Since the activity area gradually contracts from the "initial period" to the "final period" and from the "initial size" to the "final size", the timing at which a certain spot goes out of the activity area can be derived by calculation.

[0094] In particular, the warning unit 750 provides warning instruction data for outputting a warning including a reminder that the spot effect has not been activated only when it is predicted that a spot where the spot effect has not been activated will go out of the activity area. Thereby, the specific disadvantage due to the contraction of the activity area is strongly impressed on the user. If it is recorded whether the spot effect of a specific spot has been activated in association with a specific player, it is possible to determine whether the spot effect has not been activated.

[0095] [2-4-6. Update process of contraction conditions] The setting unit 720 updates the contraction conditions related to the activity area so that the progress of the contraction of the activity area is suppressed on the condition that the player bears a consideration (deterrence consideration). The player's bearing of the consideration is realized by updating so that the "number of currency items in possession" in the player management information (Fig. 8(a)) associated with the player decreases.

[0096] There are two types of suppression of the progress of contraction: deceleration and interruption. To decelerate the progress of contraction, it is only necessary to shift the "end period" in the contraction condition information (Fig. 8(d)) backward to delay it. To interrupt the progress of contraction, the "start period size" in the contraction condition information (Fig. 8(d)) is updated to the current size, the "start period" is updated to the date and time when the contraction is resumed, and the "end period" is updated to the time when the remaining time until the "end period" before the update has elapsed from the "start period" after the update. Thereby, early actions for suppressing the progress of the contraction of the activity area can be promoted.

[0097] [2-4-7. Diversion Processing of Performance Information] (1) Procedure Fig. 11 illustrates the procedure for diverting performance information by the system of the embodiment. In S1105, the user terminal 30 detects an operation of shifting (displacing) the center position (corresponding position) of any activity area. In S1110, the user terminal 30 transmits the operation information of the operation detected in S1105 to the user management server 10. The operation information includes the displacement vector (direction and magnitude of the displacement) of the object by the above operation. The user management server 10 (reception and provision unit 710) receives the operation information and specifies the position after displacement (displacement position) by the above operation.

[0098] In S1115, the user management server 10 (setting unit 720) releases the usage restrictions imposed on the part (second part) within the restricted area defined to include the position after displacement (displacement position). Specifically, the user management server 10 (setting unit 720) is the release management information (Fig. 8 (c)) is generated, the corresponding position is input for the "reference position", the current date and time is input for the "release time", and the "area classification" is set to a value representing the rectangular area formed by diverting the performance information. Also, a value representing "subordination (disappearing along with the disappearance of at least any one of the two connected activity areas)" is input for the "status". At this time, the "status" of the release management information (Fig. 8(c)) associated with the activity area before displacement is updated to a value representing disappearance. In S1120, the user management server 10 causes the user terminal 30 to update the display content. By the above procedure, the player's activity area can be secured by diverting the performance information.

[0099] (2) Mode of operation The operation of shifting is an operation of sliding an object visually representing the contour of the activity area in an arbitrary direction and with an arbitrary size on the screen. In the service of the embodiment, it is a swipe operation with the display area of the object as the starting point and the desired position as the ending point. For example, when a swipe operation is performed with the display area of the object visually representing the activity area 162 as the starting point (Fig. 3(b)), the displacement vector is specified from the starting point and the ending point of the swipe operation.

[0100] [3. Modification example] In the above embodiment, the setting unit 720 updates the contraction condition related to the activity area so that the progress of the contraction of the activity area is suppressed on the condition that the player bears the consideration (deterrence consideration). The suppression of the progress of the contraction is, for example, deceleration of the contraction and interruption of the contraction.

[0101] On the other hand, the setting unit 720 may restore the activity area (temporary area) on the condition that the player bears the consideration (restoration consideration), and newly associate the contraction condition related to the activity area with the activity area in order to gradually shrink the restored activity area from the initial start size. Thereby, early actions for restoring the activity area can be promoted. In particular, the setting unit 720 may restore the activity area on the condition that the player bears a larger consideration (restoration consideration) as the progress of the contraction related to the activity area before restoration advances. Thereby, earlier actions for restoring the activity area can be promoted. The burden of consideration by the player is realized by updating so that the "number of currency items in possession" in the player management information (FIG. 8(a)) associated with the player decreases.

[0102] In addition, the setting unit 720 may update the contraction condition related to the activity area (temporary area) so that the activity area expands on the condition that the player bears the consideration (expansion consideration). Thereby, early actions for expanding the activity area can be promoted. In particular, the setting unit 720 may determine the start size after expansion according to the size of the consideration (expansion consideration) borne by the player. Thereby, for example, the larger the burden of consideration, the larger the expansion can be. The burden of consideration by the player is realized by updating so that the "number of currency items in possession" in the player management information (FIG. 8(a)) associated with the player decreases.

[0103] To expand the activity area, the "start size" in the contraction condition information (FIG. 8(d)) may be updated to the start size after expansion, the "start period" may be updated to the current time, and the "end period" may be updated to a value obtained by adding the time (contraction time) from the "start period" before update to the "end period" to the "start period" after update.

Explanation of Signs

[0104] 10 User management server (an example of a spatial information processing device) 20 Data management server 21 Storage 30 User terminal (an example of a display device) 40 Communication network 710 Reception providing unit (first reception means, second reception means, third reception means) 720 Setting unit (restriction means, release means, additional release means, first setting means, second setting means) 730 Activation unit (activation means) 740 Effect unit 750 Warning unit 760 Synchronization unit

Claims

1. A first setting means for setting an available area that can be used by the first user in a virtual space corresponding to the real space based on the position of at least one of the first user and the second user in the real space; A second setting means for associating a contraction condition related to the available area with the available area in order to gradually contract the available area from an initial size; A space information processing apparatus comprising the above.

2. When the first user satisfies a first condition, the second setting means updates the contraction condition related to the available area so that the progress of the contraction of the available area is suppressed. The space information processing apparatus according to Claim 1.

3. When the first user satisfies a second condition, the first setting means restores the available area. The second setting means newly associates a contraction condition related to the available area with the available area in order to gradually contract the restored available area from the initial size. The space information processing apparatus according to Claim 1 or Claim 2.

4. When the first user satisfies the second condition including the burden of a restoration cost that is greater as the progress of the contraction related to the available area before restoration has advanced, the first setting means restores the available area. The space information processing apparatus according to Claim 3.

5. When the first user satisfies a third condition, the second setting means updates the contraction condition related to the available area so that the available area expands. The space information processing apparatus according to any one of Claims 1 to 3.

6. When the first user satisfies the third condition including the burden of an expansion cost, the second setting means determines the initial size after expansion according to the magnitude of the expansion cost. The space information processing apparatus according to Claim 5.

7. A first setting function for setting an available area that can be used by the first user in a virtual space corresponding to the real space based on the position of at least one of the first user and the second user in the real space; A second setting function for associating a contraction condition related to the available area with the available area in order to gradually contract the available area from an initial size; A control program for causing a computer of an information processing apparatus to implement the above.

Images