Reproducing apparatus and reproducing method

Abstract

To prevent reduction of satisfaction of users in a virtual space.SOLUTION: A reproducing apparatus 20 includes: a recording control unit 21 which calculates a degree that an avatar draws attention from other avatars in a virtual space, as an attention degree, and records attention degree information indicating the calculated attention degree, with an action log of the avatar, on a recording unit 23; and a reproducing unit 22 which selects, when reproducing action of the avatar in the virtual space, one of action logs recorded on the recording unit 23, and reproduces action of the avatar based on the selected action log. The recording control unit 21 deletes, at a predetermined timing, operation logs of which the attention degree indicated by the attention degree information is equal to or higher than a first threshold, from the recording unit 23.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 9

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a playback device and a playback method. [Background technology]

[0002] In recent years, virtual spaces, especially those called metaverse spaces, which allow an unspecified number of users to log in from various locations around the world and interact with each other, have evolved and attracted attention. However, due to the flexibility of users' login times in metaverse spaces, there can be times when only a small number of users are logged in. Users who log in during such times may have the impression that the metaverse space is a lifeless and boring space, which raises concerns about a decline in user satisfaction with the metaverse space.

[0003] Therefore, in order to improve user satisfaction in virtual spaces such as the Metaverse, techniques have recently been proposed for creating a lively virtual space. For example, according to the technique described in Patent Document 1, a log of the actions of a first avatar operated by a first user while the first user is viewing content is generated, and when a second user views the content after the first user has viewed the content, the content is played back and the actions of the first avatar are played back based on the log. This makes it possible to create the impression that the second user is viewing the content together with the first user in the virtual space. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2022-184724 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] In a virtual space such as the Metaverse, it is possible to reproduce past avatars by applying the technology described in the above-mentioned Patent Document 1. However, if the past avatars include an avatar engaging in conspicuous behavior such as dancing or shouting, the user may have a bad impression of the virtual space, which may in turn reduce their satisfaction in the virtual space.

[0006] The present invention has been made in view of the above-mentioned problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a playback device and a playback method that can prevent a decrease in user satisfaction in a virtual space. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] A playback device according to one aspect includes: a recording control unit that calculates the degree to which an avatar is attracting attention from other avatars in the virtual space as an attention level, and records attention level information indicating the calculated attention level in a recording unit together with an action log of the avatar; a playback unit that, when playing back an avatar's action in the virtual space, selects one of the action logs recorded in the recording unit and plays back the avatar's action based on the selected action log; At a predetermined timing, the recording control unit deletes the operation log whose attention level indicated by the attention level information is equal to or greater than a first threshold value from the recording unit.

[0008] A reproducing method according to one aspect includes: A playback method executed by a playback device, comprising: a recording step of calculating a degree of attention that an avatar receives from other avatars in the virtual space as an attention level, and recording attention level information indicating the calculated attention level together with an action log of the avatar in a recording unit; a reproducing step of selecting one of the action logs recorded in the recording unit and reproducing the action of the avatar in the virtual space based on the selected action log; and a deleting step of deleting, at a predetermined timing, the operation log whose attention level indicated by the attention level information is equal to or greater than a first threshold value from the recording unit. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to the above-described aspect, it is possible to provide a playback device and a playback method that can prevent a decrease in user satisfaction in a virtual space. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of an image of a metaverse space when a large number of users are logged in. [Figure 2] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of an image of a metaverse space when the number of logged-in users is extremely small. [Figure 3] 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a playback device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a schematic operational flow when deleting an avatar's action log in the playback device according to the first embodiment. FIG. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a playback device according to a second embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a schematic operational flow when deleting an avatar's action log in the playback device according to the second embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a playback device according to a third embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a schematic operational flow when deleting an avatar's action log in the playback device according to the third embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a playback device according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a schematic operational flow when deleting an avatar's action log in the playback device according to the fourth embodiment. [Figure 11]FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of a computer that implements all or part of the functions of the playback devices according to the first to fourth embodiments. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0011] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that the following description and drawings have been omitted and simplified as appropriate for clarity of explanation. In addition, in the following drawings, the same elements are given the same reference numerals, and duplicate explanations are omitted as necessary.

[0012] <First Embodiment> First, before describing the playback device 10 according to the first embodiment, differences in the impression of the metaverse space depending on the number of logged-in users will be described.

[0013] Figure 1 shows an example of what the metaverse space looks like when there are many logged-in users. In the metaverse space shown in Figure 1, there are many avatars other than the avatars operated by the users. This gives the user the impression that the metaverse space is lively and bustling.

[0014] On the other hand, Figure 2 shows an example of what the metaverse space looks like when there are extremely few logged-in users. In the metaverse space shown in Figure 2, there is only one avatar other than the avatar operated by the user. This gives the user the impression that the metaverse space is lifeless and boring. As a result, there is a concern that user satisfaction with the metaverse space will decrease.

[0015] The playback device 10 according to the first embodiment is configured as follows to prevent playback of past avatars that are inappropriate as mobs when playing back past avatars in the metaverse space.

[0016] FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the playback device 10 according to the first embodiment. 3, the playback device 10 according to the first embodiment includes an avatar action input unit 11, an avatar action control unit 12, an attention level calculation unit 13, a recording unit 14, a selection unit 15, an avatar drawing unit 16, and a display unit 17. However, the recording unit 14 and the display unit 17 are not essential components of the playback device 10, and may be provided outside the playback device 10.

[0017] The avatar action input unit 11 receives instructions from a user who has logged in to the metaverse space regarding the action of the avatar that the user will operate. The avatar movement control unit 12 generates avatar movement control data, which is data for controlling the movement of the avatar in the metaverse space, based on instructions input to the avatar movement input unit 11. The avatar movement control data indicates the joint movements, facial expressions, movement path, conversation content, etc. of the avatar.

[0018] The attention level calculation unit 13 calculates the degree to which an avatar is attracting attention from other avatars as the attention level, based on the avatar movement control data generated by the avatar movement control unit 12. For example, the attention level calculation unit 13 calculates the attention level so that an avatar that has taken a particular conspicuous action (e.g., dancing, shouting, singing loudly, fighting, etc.) or an avatar that is wearing a particular conspicuous outfit (e.g., a wedding dress, a costume), will attract a high level of attention.

[0019] The attention level calculation unit 13 may store in advance a first feature level as an index of whether each of a plurality of outfits that can be worn by an avatar is conspicuous. The outfit may be a collection of predetermined body parts, and the attention level calculation unit 13 may store the first feature level for each predetermined body part of the outfit. When the average value of the color saturation in a predetermined part of the costume is higher than a first predetermined value, the attention level calculation unit 13 may store a first characteristic level that is higher than that of a costume in which the average value of the color saturation in a predetermined part of the costume is equal to or lower than the first predetermined value. The attention level calculation unit 13 may select a part of the outfit that exceeds a predetermined surface area as the predetermined part of the outfit. When the average value of the saturation of the color of the clothing is higher than a first predetermined value, the attention level calculation unit 13 may store a higher first characteristic level compared to clothing whose average value of the saturation of the color of the clothing is equal to or lower than the first predetermined value. When the number of colors included in the outfit is greater than a second predetermined value, the attention level calculation unit 13 may store a higher first characteristic level compared to an outfit that includes the number of colors equal to or less than the second predetermined value. When the surface area of ​​the outfit is larger than the third predetermined value, the attention level calculation unit 13 may store a higher first characteristic level compared to an outfit whose surface area is equal to or smaller than the third predetermined value.

[0020] The attention level calculation unit 13 may calculate a first characteristic level for each piece of clothing worn by the avatar, and calculate the sum of these first characteristic levels as the total first characteristic level for the avatar. The attention level calculation unit 13 may store in advance a second characteristic level for each characteristic action of the avatar as an index of whether or not the action is noticeable. When the volume of the voice emitted by the avatar is greater than a fourth predetermined value, the attention level calculation unit 13 may store a second characteristic level that is higher than that of an avatar whose volume of the voice emitted by the avatar is equal to or less than the fourth predetermined value. When the movement speed of the avatar is greater than a fifth predetermined value, the attention level calculation unit 13 may store a higher second characteristic level than an avatar whose movement speed is equal to or less than the fifth predetermined value. When the amount of movement of the avatar is greater than a sixth predetermined value, the attention level calculation unit 13 may store a second characteristic level that is higher than that of an avatar whose amount of movement of the avatar is equal to or less than the sixth predetermined value. Avatar movement control unit 12A, which will be described later, calculates the amount of movement of the avatar based on the movements of the avatar's joints and the path of movement included in the avatar's movement control data. The attention level calculation unit 13 may calculate the attention level using the amount of movement of the avatar calculated by avatar movement control unit 12A. The attention level calculation unit 13 may also calculate the amount of movement of the avatar per unit time.

[0021] The attention level calculation unit 13 may calculate a second characteristic level for each action of the avatar, and calculate the sum of these second characteristic levels as the total second characteristic level of the avatar. The attention level calculation unit 13 may calculate the attention level by adding the first characteristic level sum and the second characteristic level sum.

[0022] The attention level calculation unit 13 may calculate the highest first characteristic level for the clothes worn by the avatar, calculate the highest second characteristic level for the actions of the avatar, and add these together to calculate the attention level. The attention level calculation unit 13 may calculate either the first characteristic level or the second characteristic level and use it as the attention level.

[0023] The avatar movement control unit 12 records an movement log (e.g., the avatar's joint movements, facial expressions, movement path, conversation content, etc.) corresponding to the avatar's movement control data in the recording unit 14 together with attention level information indicating the attention level calculated by the attention level calculation unit 13.

[0024] When a user logs in to the metaverse space, selection unit 15 selects the movement control data of the avatar to be operated by the user, which data was generated by avatar movement control unit 12, and passes the selected movement control data to avatar drawing unit 16. Avatar drawing unit 16 draws the movement of the avatar on display unit 17 based on the movement control data passed from selection unit 15.

[0025] In addition, when a user logs in to the metaverse space, the selection unit 15 compares the number of avatars currently present in the metaverse space (i.e., the number of users logged in to the metaverse space) with a predetermined threshold value, either in parallel with the above-mentioned operation or before performing the above-mentioned operation.

[0026] As a result, if the number of avatars existing in the metaverse space is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold, the avatar's actions are not played back. In other words, the selection unit 15 does not select an action log from the recording unit 14 that records the past avatar actions operated by users who had previously logged in to the metaverse space.

[0027] On the other hand, if the number of avatars existing in the metaverse space is less than a predetermined threshold, the selection unit 15 plays back the avatar's actions. That is, the selection unit 15 selects an action log from the recording unit 14, which records the past avatar actions operated by users who have logged in to the metaverse space in the past.

[0028] Here, the selection unit 15 may select an action log from the recording unit 14 using any method. For example, the selection unit 15 may identify an avatar located within a predetermined range from the avatar being drawn and operated by the user based on the action logs recorded in the recording unit 14, and select the action log of the identified avatar from the recording unit 14. In this case, the selection unit 15 may exclude action logs of avatars previously operated by a user logged in to the metaverse space. In other words, the selection unit 15 may select action logs of avatars previously operated by a user other than the logged-in user. The selection unit 15 may also limit the number of action logs to be selected to a predetermined number. When selecting a predetermined number of action logs from multiple action logs, the selection unit 15 may compare the date and time of the action log with the date and time of playback and select the action log whose date and time is closest to the date and time of playback. Here, the playback time may be the current date and time, or the date and time at which the selection unit 15 selects the action log. Alternatively, the selection unit 15 may compare the date and time of the operation log with a specific date and time designated by the user, and select the operation log in order of the date and time of the operation log closest to the specific date and time. The specific date and time may be, for example, the user's birthday, Christmas, New Year's, or the date and time of a specific event.

[0029] The selection unit 15 passes the motion control data of the motion log selected from the recording unit 14 to the avatar drawing unit 16. The avatar drawing unit 16 draws (plays) the motion of the avatar on the display unit 17 based on the motion control data passed from the selection unit 15.

[0030] On the other hand, at a predetermined timing, avatar action control unit 12 deletes from recording unit 14 any action log whose attention level indicated by the attention level information recorded together with the action log in recording unit 14 is equal to or greater than the first threshold. In the first embodiment, deleting an action log from recording unit 14 also means deleting the attention level information recorded together with the action log (the same applies to the second embodiment below). The predetermined timing may be, for example, a periodic timing, or a timing immediately before the selection unit 15 selects an action log from recording unit 14.

[0031] This reduces the possibility that the behavior log of an avatar that is highly conspicuous and above the first threshold, such as by engaging in specific conspicuous behavior or wearing specific conspicuous clothing, will be selected and the behavior of that avatar will be played back.

[0032] The avatar movement input unit 11 may be realized by, for example, a controller for moving an avatar, a mouse, a keyboard, a touch panel, a sensor attached to an HMD (Head Mounted Display), a motion capture system, or the like. The recording unit 14 may be realized by, for example, a memory configured by combining a volatile memory and a non-volatile memory. The avatar movement control unit 12, the attention level calculation unit 13, the selection unit 15, and the avatar drawing unit 16 may be realized by, for example, a processor such as a microprocessor, an MPU (Micro Processing Unit), or a CPU (Central Processing Unit). The avatar movement control unit 12, the attention level calculation unit 13, the selection unit 15, and the avatar drawing unit 16 may be realized by, for example, a processor reading and executing a program stored in a memory that realizes the recording unit 14. The display unit 17 may be realized by, for example, a display device.

[0033] Fig. 4 is a flow diagram illustrating an example of a schematic operation flow when deleting an avatar's action log in playback device 10 according to Embodiment 1. Note that in Fig. 4, it is assumed that the action logs of past avatars that previously existed in the metaverse space have already been recorded in recording unit 14 together with attention level information indicating the attention level of the past avatars.

[0034] 4, avatar movement control unit 12 determines whether a predetermined timing has arrived (step S11). If the predetermined timing has not arrived (No in step S11), the process returns to step S11.

[0035] In step S11, when a predetermined timing is reached (Yes in step S11), the avatar action control unit 12 deletes from the recording unit 14 the action logs whose attention level indicated by the attention level information recorded together with the action logs in the recording unit 14 is equal to or greater than the first threshold (step S12).

[0036] As described above, according to the first embodiment, avatar action control unit 12 records action logs of avatars that previously existed in the metaverse space together with attention level information indicating the attention level of the avatar in recording unit 14. Selection unit 15 selects one of the action logs from recording unit 14, and avatar drawing unit 16 plays back the action of the avatar based on the action log of the selected avatar. Furthermore, at a predetermined timing, avatar action control unit 12 deletes from recording unit 14 any action log whose attention level, indicated by the attention level information recorded together with the action log in recording unit 14, is equal to or greater than a first threshold.

[0037] In this way, the actions of avatars that previously existed in the metaverse space are reproduced, making it possible to create a lively metaverse space even during times when there are few users logged in.

[0038] On the other hand, the behavior logs of avatars that are highly conspicuous and exceed the first threshold are deleted from the recording unit 14. These avatars attract attention by engaging in specific conspicuous behaviors, wearing specific conspicuous clothing, etc., and are therefore considered to be inappropriate avatars to be part of the mob. Therefore, by deleting the behavior logs of such avatars, the possibility that users will see such avatars can be reduced. This prevents a decline in user satisfaction in the metaverse space. Furthermore, by deleting the behavior logs of such avatars, free space can be secured in the recording unit 14.

[0039] In the first embodiment, avatar action control unit 12 deletes action logs with attention levels equal to or greater than the first threshold at a predetermined timing. However, depending on the timing of deleting the action logs, there is a possibility that an action log with attention levels equal to or greater than the first threshold may remain in recording unit 14 when selection unit 15 selects an action log, and that action log may be selected.

[0040] Therefore, when playing back the actions of the avatar, the selection unit 15 may not select an action log with a degree of attention equal to or greater than the first threshold, that is, may select an action log with a degree of attention less than the first threshold.

[0041] Avatar movement control unit 12 may not delete the movement logs from recording unit 14, and selection unit 15 may select movement logs with a degree of attention less than the first threshold when reproducing the movements of the avatar. Avatar movement control unit 12 may detect that the recording capacity of recording unit 14 has reached a first predetermined threshold or more, and delete the movement log from recording unit 14 at a predetermined timing.

[0042] Avatar movement control unit 12 may store the first threshold value in advance. Avatar movement control unit 12 may detect that the recording capacity of recording unit 14 has fallen below a second predetermined threshold value, and increase the pre-stored first threshold value. Avatar movement control unit 12 may detect that the recording capacity of recording unit 14 has risen to or exceeds a third predetermined threshold value, and decrease the pre-stored first threshold value.

[0043] <Embodiment 2> FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a playback device 10A according to the second embodiment. As shown in FIG. 5, playback device 10A according to the second embodiment differs from playback device 10 according to the first embodiment described above in that avatar movement control unit 12 is replaced with avatar movement control unit 12A.

[0044] Note that avatar movement control unit 12A only partially differs from avatar movement control unit 12. Therefore, the following description will focus on the operations of avatar movement control unit 12A that differ from avatar movement control unit 12.

[0045] At a predetermined timing, the avatar action control unit 12A deletes from the recording unit 14 any action log whose attention level indicated by the attention level information recorded together with the action log in the recording unit 14 is equal to or greater than the first threshold, as in the above-described first embodiment.

[0046] In addition, avatar movement control unit 12A calculates the amount of movement of the avatar based on the avatar movement control data. For example, avatar movement control unit 12A calculates the amount of change in the avatar's joint movement per unit time based on the movement control data indicating the movement of the avatar's joints. Avatar movement control unit 12A then calculates the amount of movement depending on whether the amount of change in the avatar's joint movement is greater than that of other avatars. In this case, avatar movement control unit 12A calculates the amount of movement so that the amount of movement increases as the amount of change in the avatar's joint movement increases compared to other avatars. Avatar movement control unit 12A then deletes from recording unit 14 movement logs whose amount of movement is equal to or greater than a second threshold. Avatar movement control unit 12A may calculate the absolute value of the amount of change in the movement of the avatar's joints as the movement amount. In the second embodiment, the configuration other than the above is the same as that of the first embodiment.

[0047] Avatar movement control unit 12A may be realized by a processor such as a microprocessor, an MPU, or a CPU. Avatar movement control unit 12A may also be realized by a processor reading and executing a program stored in a memory that realizes recording unit 14.

[0048] Fig. 6 is a flow diagram illustrating an example of a schematic operation flow when deleting an avatar's action log in playback device 10A according to Embodiment 2. Note that in Fig. 6, it is assumed that the action logs of past avatars that previously existed in the metaverse space have already been recorded in recording unit 14 together with attention level information indicating the attention level of the past avatars.

[0049] As shown in FIG. 6, first, the processes of steps S11 and S12 similar to steps S11 and S12 in FIG. 4 in the first embodiment are performed. That is, in step S11, when a predetermined timing has arrived (Yes in step S11), avatar movement control unit 12A deletes from recording unit 14 any movement log whose attention level indicated by the attention level information recorded together with the movement log in recording unit 14 is equal to or greater than the first threshold (step S12).

[0050] Next, avatar movement control unit 12A calculates the amount of movement of the avatar based on the avatar movement control data, and deletes from recording unit 14 any movement log in which the calculated amount of movement is equal to or greater than the second threshold (step S23).

[0051] As described above, according to the second embodiment, avatar movement control unit 12A performs the following operation at a predetermined timing in addition to the same operations as those in the first embodiment: That is, avatar movement control unit 12A calculates the amount of movement of the avatar based on the avatar movement control data, and deletes from recording unit 14 any movement log in which the calculated amount of movement is equal to or greater than a second threshold.

[0052] In the second embodiment, the avatars whose action logs have been deleted from the recording unit 14 have a large amount of movement, exceeding the second threshold, and are therefore considered to be exaggerated and inappropriate avatars for use as mobs. Therefore, deleting the action logs of such avatars can further prevent a decline in user satisfaction in the metaverse space. Furthermore, deleting the action logs of such avatars can further secure free space in the recording unit 14. Avatar movement control unit 12A may not delete movement logs with a degree of attention equal to or greater than a first threshold, but may delete movement logs with an amount of movement equal to or greater than a second threshold. Other effects are the same as those of the first embodiment described above.

[0053] In the second embodiment, avatar movement control unit 12A deletes movement logs with an amount of movement equal to or greater than the second threshold at a predetermined timing. However, depending on the timing of deleting the movement logs, there is a possibility that a movement log with an amount of movement equal to or greater than the second threshold may remain in recording unit 14 when selection unit 15 selects a movement log, and that movement log may be selected.

[0054] Therefore, when playing back the avatar's movements, the selection unit 15 may calculate the amount of movement and not select movement logs in which the amount of movement is greater than or equal to the second threshold, i.e., select movement logs in which the amount of movement is less than the second threshold.

[0055] Furthermore, in the second embodiment, avatar movement control unit 12A is not limited to deleting all movement logs in which the movement amount is equal to or greater than the second threshold, but may delete only some of the movement logs. For example, suppose that recording unit 14 records a movement log of an avatar every second for five seconds. Furthermore, suppose that the movement amount calculated from the movement logs for four seconds out of the five seconds is equal to or greater than the second threshold. In this case, avatar movement control unit 12A may delete all movement logs for the five seconds, or may delete only the movement logs for the four seconds in which the movement amount was equal to or greater than the second threshold.

[0056] <Third Embodiment> FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a playback device 10B according to the third embodiment. As shown in FIG. 7, playback device 10B according to the third embodiment differs from playback device 10 according to the first embodiment in that a conversation level calculation unit 18 is added and avatar movement control unit 12 is replaced with avatar movement control unit 12B.

[0057] Note that avatar movement control unit 12B only partially differs from avatar movement control unit 12. Therefore, the following description will focus on the operations of avatar movement control unit 12B that differ from avatar movement control unit 12.

[0058] The conversation degree calculation unit 18 determines the number of times and duration of conversations that the avatar has had in the metaverse space based on the avatar movement control data generated by the avatar movement control unit 12B. Then, the conversation degree calculation unit 18 calculates the degree of conversation of the avatar as a conversation degree based on the number of times and duration of conversations that the avatar has had. At this time, the conversation degree calculation unit 18 calculates the conversation degree so that the conversation degree increases as the number of times the avatar has had conversations increases. Furthermore, the conversation degree calculation unit 18 calculates the conversation degree so that the conversation degree increases as the duration of conversations that the avatar has had is longer. The conversation degree calculation unit 18 may calculate the conversation degree based on either the number of times or duration of conversations that the avatar has had.

[0059] Avatar action input unit 11 may include a microphone and receive conversation from the user via the microphone. Conversation level calculation unit 18 may measure the time from when the user starts speaking to when the user stops speaking, and calculate this as the time the avatar has been speaking. Conversation level calculation unit 18 may accumulate the time the avatar has been speaking until avatar action control unit 12B (described later) records an action log in recording unit 14.

[0060] If the time between when the user finishes speaking and when he / she starts speaking again is shorter than a predetermined time, the conversation level calculation unit 18 may calculate the time that the avatar spent speaking to include the time between when the user finishes speaking and when he / she starts speaking again.

[0061] When an avatar other than the user is present within a predetermined range from the avatar operated by the user, the conversation level calculation unit 18 may measure the time from when the user starts to speak until when the user finishes speaking, and calculate this as the time the avatar has been talking.

[0062] Avatar action input unit 11 may accept voices of other than the user. When an avatar other than the user exists within a predetermined range from the avatar operated by the user and when voices of other than the user are input, conversation level calculation unit 18 may measure the time from when the user starts to speak until when the user finishes speaking, and calculate this as the time the avatar has been speaking.

[0063] The conversational level calculation unit 18 may receive information about the person's voice other than the user's and identify the individual of the voice other than the user's. Alternatively, the conversational level calculation unit 18 may be equipped with a machine learning model that identifies individuals from voice and identify the individual of the voice other than the user's. The conversational level calculation unit 18 may calculate the amount of time the avatar spent talking for each identified individual of the voice other than the user's.

[0064] Conversation level calculation unit 18 may calculate the number of times the avatar has conversed as one time each time it calculates the time the avatar has conversed. Conversation level calculation unit 18 may accumulate the number of times the avatar has conversed until avatar action control unit 12B, described later, records an action log in recording unit 14. Conversation level calculation unit 18 may calculate the number of times the avatar has conversed as one time when an avatar other than the user exists within a predetermined range from the avatar operated by the user and each time it calculates the time the avatar has conversed. The conversation degree calculation unit 18 may calculate the number of times the avatar has talked as one time when a predetermined time has passed since the user finished speaking.

[0065] The avatar movement control unit 12B records an movement log corresponding to the avatar movement control data in the recording unit 14 together with attention level information indicating the attention level calculated by the attention level calculation unit 13 and conversation level information indicating the conversation level calculated by the conversation level calculation unit 18.

[0066] Then, at a predetermined timing, avatar action control unit 12B deletes, from recording unit 14, action logs whose attention level indicated by the attention level information recorded together with the action logs in recording unit 14 is equal to or greater than the first threshold, as in the above-described first embodiment. Note that in the second embodiment, deleting an action log from recording unit 14 means deleting the attention level information and talk level information recorded together with the action log.

[0067] In addition, avatar movement control unit 12B determines whether to delete additional movement logs from recording unit 14. For example, avatar movement control unit 12B determines to delete additional movement logs when more free space is required in recording unit 14. Avatar movement control unit 12B may detect that the recording capacity of recording unit 14 has reached a fourth predetermined threshold value or more, and may decide to delete additional movement logs.

[0068] Furthermore, when deleting additional action logs, avatar movement control unit 12B determines the number of action logs to delete. For example, avatar movement control unit 12B determines the number of action logs to delete based on the free space secured in recording unit 14. Avatar movement control unit 12B may determine the number of movement logs to delete so that the number of movement logs to delete increases as the storage capacity of recording unit 14 increases. Avatar movement control unit 12B may also determine the number of movement logs to delete in advance.

[0069] Then, avatar movement control unit 12B deletes the determined number of movement logs from recording unit 14 in ascending order of conversation level indicated by the conversation level information recorded in recording unit 14 together with the movement logs. In the third embodiment, the configuration other than the above is the same as that of the first embodiment.

[0070] Avatar movement control unit 12B and conversation level calculation unit 18 may be realized by a processor such as a microprocessor, an MPU, or a CPU. Avatar movement control unit 12B and conversation level calculation unit 18 may also be realized by a processor reading and executing a program stored in a memory that realizes recording unit 14.

[0071] Fig. 8 is a flow diagram illustrating an example of a schematic operation flow when deleting an avatar's action log in playback device 10B according to Embodiment 3. Note that Fig. 8 assumes that the action logs of past avatars that previously existed in the metaverse space have already been recorded in recording unit 14 together with attention level information indicating the attention level of the past avatars and conversation level information indicating the conversation level of the past avatars.

[0072] As shown in FIG. 8, first, the processes of steps S11 and S12 similar to steps S11 and S12 in FIG. 4 in the first embodiment are performed. That is, in step S11, when a predetermined timing is reached (Yes in step S11), the avatar action control unit 12B deletes from the recording unit 14 the action logs whose attention level indicated by the attention level information recorded together with the action logs in the recording unit 14 is equal to or greater than the first threshold (step S12).

[0073] Next, avatar movement control unit 12B determines whether or not to delete additional movement logs from recording unit 14 (step S33). If not (No in step S33), the process ends.

[0074] In step S33, if additional action logs are to be deleted (Yes in step S33), avatar action control unit 12B determines the number of action logs to be deleted (step S34).

[0075] Thereafter, avatar action control unit 12B deletes the number of action logs determined in step S34 from recording unit 14 in ascending order of conversation level indicated by the conversation level information recorded together with the action logs in recording unit 14 (step S35).

[0076] As described above, according to the third embodiment, avatar movement control unit 12B, at a predetermined timing, deletes movement logs whose attention level, indicated by the attention level information recorded together with the movement logs in recording unit 14, is equal to or greater than the first threshold. After that, avatar movement control unit 12B determines whether to delete additional movement logs, and if so, determines the number of movement logs to delete. Next, avatar movement control unit 12B deletes the determined number of movement logs in ascending order of the conversation level, indicated by the conversation level information recorded together with the movement logs in recording unit 14.

[0077] In the third embodiment, an avatar whose action log has been deleted from the recording unit 14 is considered to be an avatar that is reluctant to converse with other avatars because it has a low level of conversation. Therefore, even if the actions of such an avatar are not played back, it is considered that the impact on creating a lively metaverse space is small. Therefore, for example, if it is desired to secure more free space in the recording unit 14, the free space can be secured in the recording unit 14 by deleting the action logs of such an avatar.

[0078] Avatar movement control unit 12B may determine whether to delete movement logs from recording unit 14 without deleting movement logs whose attention level is equal to or greater than the first threshold. If avatar movement control unit 12B detects in step S33 that the recording capacity of recording unit 14 has reached or exceeded a fifth predetermined threshold, it may determine to delete an additional movement log (Yes in step S33), determine the number of movement logs to delete to be one in step S34, and delete the movement log from recording unit 14 in step S35. Thereafter, avatar movement control unit 12B may repeat the process from step S33, deleting movement logs until the recording capacity of recording unit 14 falls below the fifth predetermined threshold.

[0079] Avatar movement control unit 12B may determine the number of movement logs to delete as one, and delete the movement logs in ascending order of conversation level. Avatar movement control unit 12B may delete one or more movement logs in ascending order of conversation level, and then delete movement logs whose attention level is equal to or greater than the first threshold. Other effects are the same as those of the first embodiment described above.

[0080] Furthermore, although the present embodiment 3 is based on the above-described embodiment 1, it is not limited thereto and may be based on the above-described embodiment 2. That is, in the present embodiment 3, avatar movement control unit 12B may additionally delete, at a predetermined timing, movement logs in which the amount of movement of the avatar is equal to or greater than the second threshold from recording unit 14. In this case, avatar movement control unit 12B may determine whether to delete additional movement logs after deleting movement logs in which the attention level is equal to or greater than the first threshold and movement amounts in which the amount of movement is equal to or greater than the second threshold.

[0081] <Fourth Embodiment> 9 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a playback device 20 according to the fourth embodiment. The fourth embodiment corresponds to an embodiment that is a superordinate concept of the first to third embodiments described above. As shown in FIG. 9, a playback device 20 according to the fourth embodiment includes a recording control unit 21 and a playback unit 22.

[0082] Recording control unit 21 corresponds to avatar action control units 12, 12A, 12B, attention level calculation unit 13, and conversation level calculation unit 18 in the above-described first to third embodiments. Playback unit 22 corresponds to selection unit 15 and avatar drawing unit 16 in the above-described first to third embodiments.

[0083] The recording control unit 21 calculates the degree to which an avatar is attracting attention from other avatars in the virtual space as an attention level, and records attention level information indicating the calculated attention level together with an action log of the avatar in a recording unit 23 outside the playback device 20. The recording unit 23 corresponds to the recording unit 14 according to the above-mentioned first to third embodiments, but is not limited to being provided outside the playback device 20, and may be provided inside the playback device 20.

[0084] When reproducing the actions of the avatar in the virtual space, the reproduction unit 22 selects one of the action logs recorded in the recording unit 23, and reproduces the actions of the avatar based on the selected action log on a display unit 24 outside the reproduction device 20. The display unit 24 corresponds to the display unit 17 according to the above-described first to third embodiments, but is not limited to being provided outside the reproduction device 20, and may be provided inside the reproduction device 20.

[0085] At this time, the reproduction unit 22 may compare the number of avatars present in the virtual space with a predetermined threshold, and if the number is less than the predetermined threshold, reproduce the movements of the avatars. If the number of avatars present in the virtual space is equal to or greater than the predetermined threshold, the reproduction unit 22 may not reproduce the movements of the avatars.

[0086] Alternatively, the reproduction unit 22 may compare the congestion level of the virtual space with another predetermined threshold, and reproduce the avatar's movements if the congestion level is less than the other predetermined threshold. The reproduction unit 22 may not reproduce the avatar's movements if the congestion level of the virtual space is equal to or greater than the other predetermined threshold. Here, the congestion level refers to the number of avatars located per unit area of ​​the virtual space.

[0087] Here, at a predetermined timing, the recording control unit 21 deletes from the recording unit 23 any operation log whose attention level indicated by the attention level information recorded together with the operation log in the recording unit 23 is equal to or greater than the first threshold.

[0088] Fig. 10 is a flow diagram illustrating an example of a schematic operation flow when deleting an avatar's action log in playback device 20 according to embodiment 4. Note that in Fig. 10, it is assumed that the action logs of past avatars that previously existed in the virtual space have already been recorded in recording unit 23 together with attention level information indicating the attention level of the past avatars.

[0089] 10, the recording control unit 21 determines whether or not a predetermined timing has arrived (step S41). If the predetermined timing has not arrived (No in step S41), the process returns to step S41.

[0090] In step S41, when the predetermined timing is reached (Yes in step S41), the recording control unit 21 deletes from the recording unit 23 the operation logs whose attention level indicated by the attention level information recorded together with the operation logs in the recording unit 23 is equal to or greater than the first threshold (step S42).

[0091] As described above, according to the fourth embodiment, the recording control unit 21 calculates the degree to which an avatar is attracting attention from other avatars in the virtual space as an attention level, and records attention level information indicating the calculated attention level together with the avatar's action log in the recording unit 23. When reproducing the avatar's action in the virtual space, the reproduction unit 22 selects one of the action logs recorded in the recording unit 23 and reproduces the avatar's action based on the selected action log. At a predetermined timing, the recording control unit 21 deletes from the recording unit 23 any action log whose attention level, indicated by the attention level information recorded together with the action log in the recording unit 23, is equal to or greater than the first threshold.

[0092] In this way, the actions of avatars that previously existed in the virtual space are reproduced, making it possible to create a lively virtual space even during times when there are only a few logged-in users.

[0093] On the other hand, the action logs of avatars that are attracting a lot of attention and exceeding the first threshold are deleted from the recording unit 23. These avatars attract a lot of attention by engaging in specific conspicuous behaviors, wearing specific conspicuous clothing, etc., and are therefore considered to be inappropriate avatars to be part of a mob. Therefore, by deleting the action logs of such avatars, the possibility that users will see such avatars can be reduced. This prevents a decrease in user satisfaction in the virtual space.

[0094] In addition, at a predetermined timing, the recording control unit 21 may calculate the amount of movement of the avatar based on the movement log recorded in the recording unit 23, and delete from the recording unit 23 any movement log in which the calculated amount of movement is equal to or greater than a second threshold value.

[0095] Furthermore, the recording control unit 21 may calculate the degree of conversation of the avatar based on the number of times or duration of conversations that the avatar has had in the virtual space, as a conversation level, and may further record conversation level information indicating the calculated conversation level together with the avatar's action log in the recording unit 23. In this case, at a predetermined timing, the recording control unit 21 may delete from the recording unit 23 the action logs whose attention level is equal to or greater than a first threshold, and then delete from the recording unit 23 the action logs in ascending order of conversation level indicated by the conversation level information recorded together with the action logs in the recording unit 23.

[0096] Furthermore, when reproducing the actions of the avatar in the virtual space, the reproduction unit 22 may select an action log in which the attention level indicated by the attention level information recorded together with the action log in the recording unit 23 is less than the first threshold.

[0097] <Computer that realizes the playback device according to the embodiment> FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of a computer 30 that implements all or part of the functions of the playback devices 10, 10A, 10B, and 20 according to the first to fourth embodiments described above. As shown in FIG. 11, a computer 30 includes a processor 31 and a memory 32 .

[0098] The processor 31 may be, for example, a microprocessor, an MPU, or a CPU. The processor 31 may include multiple processors.

[0099] The memory 32 is configured by a combination of volatile memory and non-volatile memory. The memory 32 may include storage located remotely from the processor 31. In this case, the processor 31 may access the memory 32 via an I (Input) / O (Output) interface (not shown).

[0100] A program is stored in the memory 32. When the program is loaded into the computer 30, the program includes a set of instructions (or software code) that causes the computer 30 to perform all or part of the functions of the playback devices 10, 10A, 10B, and 20 according to the first to fourth embodiments. The components of the playback devices 10, 10A, 10B, and 20 described above may be realized by the processor 31 reading and executing the program stored in the memory 32. Furthermore, the storage function of the playback devices 10, 10A, 10B, and 20 described above may be realized by the memory 32.

[0101] The above-described programs may also be stored on non-transitory computer-readable media or tangible storage media. By way of example and not limitation, computer-readable media or tangible storage media include random-access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), flash memory, solid-state drive (SSD) or other memory technology, CD-ROM, digital versatile disc (DVD), Blu-ray® disc or other optical disk storage, magnetic cassette, magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices. The programs may also be transmitted on transitory computer-readable media or communication media. By way of example and not limitation, transitory computer-readable media or communication media include electrical, optical, acoustic, or other forms of propagated signals.

[0102] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and can be modified as appropriate within the scope of the invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0103] 10,10A,10B playback device 11 Avatar movement input unit 12, 12A, 12B Avatar movement control section 13 Attention Calculation Unit 14 Recording section 15 Selection section 16 Avatar Drawing Section 17 Display section 18 Conversational level calculation unit 20 Playback device 21 Recording control section 22 Playback Department 23 Recording Section 24 Display 30 Computer 31 processors 32 memory

Claims

1. a recording control unit that calculates the degree to which an avatar is attracting attention from other avatars in the virtual space as an attention level, and records attention level information indicating the calculated attention level in a recording unit together with an action log of the avatar; a playback unit that, when playing back an avatar's action in the virtual space, selects one of the action logs recorded in the recording unit and plays back the avatar's action based on the selected action log; The recording control unit deletes, at a predetermined timing, the operation log whose attention level indicated by the attention level information is equal to or greater than a first threshold value from the recording unit. playback device.

2. the recording control unit, at the predetermined timing, calculates an amount of movement of the avatar based on the movement log recorded in the recording unit, and deletes from the recording unit any movement log in which the calculated amount of movement is equal to or greater than a second threshold. The playback device according to claim 1 .

3. the recording control unit calculates a conversation level of the avatar based on the number of times or duration of conversations the avatar has had in the virtual space, and further records conversation level information indicating the calculated conversation level together with the avatar's operation log in the recording unit; the recording control unit, at the predetermined timing, deletes the action logs from the recording unit in ascending order of the conversation level indicated by the conversation level information.

3. The playback device according to claim 1 or 2.

4. When reproducing the actions of the avatar in the virtual space, the reproduction unit selects the action log in which the attention level indicated by the attention level information recorded together with the action log in the recording unit is less than the first threshold.

3. The playback device according to claim 1 or 2.

5. A playback method executed by a playback device, comprising: a recording step of calculating a degree of attention that an avatar receives from other avatars in the virtual space as an attention level, and recording attention level information indicating the calculated attention level together with an action log of the avatar in a recording unit; a reproducing step of selecting one of the action logs recorded in the recording unit and reproducing the action of the avatar in the virtual space based on the selected action log; a deleting step of deleting, at a predetermined timing, the operation log whose attention level indicated by the attention level information is equal to or greater than a first threshold value from the recording unit. How to play.

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