Handwritten map linked information provision program

The system digitizes hand-drawn maps with integrated photos and interactive features to address uneven tourism distribution by enhancing user engagement and promoting local tourism through personal experiences and incentives.

JP2025158974APending Publication Date: 2025-10-17ROKECCO CO LTD
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Patent Information

Application Number
JP2025084701
Authority / Receiving Office
JP · JP
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2025-05-21
Publication Date
2025-10-17

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing tourism maps, both paper and digital, often lack personal and unique information about local attractions, leading to uneven distribution of tourists and environmental issues, as they are primarily created by local governments and overlook local residents' unique spots.

Method used

A system that digitizes hand-drawn maps, integrates landscape photos, allows for user comments and ratings, and provides interactive features like symbol annotations and survey incentives, linking personal experiences with digital technology to promote new tourism resources.

Benefits of technology

Enhances user engagement by providing multifaceted, emotionally appealing information, encourages active participation, and stimulates local tourism through shared experiences and incentives, thereby decentralizing tourist destinations and promoting regional revitalization.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

To provide an information provision program that is intended to decentralize tourism and foster regional pride by promoting the attractions of a region using "handwritten maps," taking advantage of the perspective of inbound tourists who see the everyday as extraordinary.SOLUTION: An information provision program displays, in a list on the same hierarchical level, a map display unit for converting a handwritten map into electronic data and displaying it, and a photo display unit for displaying landscape photos taken at places featured on the map.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1
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Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an image display program that displays images and related information in conjunction with a hand-drawn map, and more particularly to a user-participation type image information display technology suitable for providing tourist information, local information, etc. [Background technology]

[0002] The Handwritten Map Promotion Committee, run by Rokekko Co., Ltd., the applicant for this patent, was established in 2013 and has continued to work to rediscover the charm of local areas through handwritten maps and contribute to regional revitalization and community building.

[0003] The main initiatives are as follows: (1) Workshops: We hold hand-drawn map workshops in local governments and schools across the country, providing opportunities for residents and children to walk their local areas and create maps from their own unique perspectives, thereby discovering and sharing the hidden charms and challenges of their communities. (2) Introduction to educational settings: Hand-drawn map-making has also been incorporated as part of elementary school classes, contributing to the promotion of independent learning and communication among children. (3) Hand-drawn Map Awards: Starting in 2022, the Hand-Drawn Map Award will be held for elementary school students across the country. This will widely showcase children's work and create a forum for sharing the stories and charms of the region. (4) Book publishing and information dissemination: We have published books such as "How to Make Hand-Drawn Maps" and "Textbook for Hand-Drawn Maps" to widely share our know-how and examples. We also collect hand-drawn maps from all over the country through our website and social media, and disseminate interesting maps and examples of our activities. (5) Good Design Award Winner: In 2020, it won the Good Design Award in the "Regional and Community Development" category, receiving high praise for its workshops involving local residents and its approach to discovering the hidden charms of the area.

[0004] The mission, vision, and values ​​of the Handwritten Map Promotion Committee, run by Rokekko Co., Ltd., the applicant for this patent, can be summarized as follows: (1) Mission: Discovering and sharing the charm of the region and the fun of everyday life through "hand-drawn maps," and connecting people, regions, and generations. (2) Vision (what we aim to achieve): - Realizing a society where everyone can enjoy and talk about their local area from their own perspective - To create a society where the diverse stories and values ​​of each region are shared, deepening local love and community ties. (3) Values: Respect for diversity: We value each individual's perspective and experience, and propose ways to enjoy the local area that are not bound by existing values. Participation and co-creation: Emphasis is placed on the process of residents and children actively participating and discovering and promoting the charm of the area together. Storytelling: Enjoy maps as reading material and value telling local stories.

[0005] Furthermore, the impact on society of the Handwritten Map Promotion Committee, run by Rokekko Co., Ltd., the applicant for the patent, can be summarized as follows: (1) Regional revitalization and community building: By allowing residents to discover and share the hidden charms and challenges of their local area through hand-drawn maps, they foster a sense of attachment and pride in their local area, contributing to the revitalization of the community. (2) Educational Effects and Intergenerational Exchange: This is an activity that can be participated in by a wide range of people, from children to adults, and it provides an opportunity to learn about the history and culture of the region and a place for interaction across generations. (3) Communicating diverse regional values: By promoting "diverse ways to enjoy the region" based on individual perspectives and experiences, rather than relying on traditional tourist attractions and specialties, we are leading to the discovery of new charms and values ​​in the region. (4) Promoting social participation and self-expression: By providing a space where anyone can freely draw and share maps, we are expanding opportunities for self-expression and social participation.

[0006] Generally speaking, the Handwritten Map Promotion Committee, run by Rokekko Co., Ltd., the applicant for this patent, has had the following social impact: "Hand-drawn maps are love letters to the town. The thoughts and stories of each individual are conveyed to the community through maps, allowing the diverse charms of the area to be rediscovered. This is the kind of social impact it is creating."

[0007] Overall, the applicant, Rokekko Co., Ltd., and the Handwritten Map Promotion Committee discover and disseminate the charms and diverse stories of local areas through "handwritten maps," and have a significant social impact on regional revitalization, education, and community formation. Their mission, vision, and values ​​are summarized as "respect for diverse perspectives," "participation and co-creation," and "disseminating stories," and they can be said to continue to lead the creation of new value in the region.

[0008] In addition, a system for collecting tourist behavior information at multiple tourist destinations has been disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2007-241903. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0009] [Patent Document 1] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2007-241903 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0010] Traditionally, paper maps and digital maps have been used to promote tourism and commerce in local areas. However, these maps often contain uniform information, making it difficult to attract the interest of tourists and lead them to actual action. The reason for this is that local governments and DMOs (Distance Tourism Organizations) are the main creators of the maps, so fairness is required. This tends to limit information to "local attractions that everyone recognizes." As a result, it is difficult to introduce personally unique spots that are attractive to tourists. Furthermore, information that local residents take for granted tends to be overlooked due to unconscious bias. The biggest problem is that the people who live in the area are not aware of the uniqueness and charm of their own area.

[0011] As mentioned above, the Handwritten Map Promotion Committee, run by the patent applicant, Rokekko Co., Ltd., has been running a program in various regions since 2013 to rediscover the charm of local areas by holding workshops aimed at creating handwritten maps. By publicly inviting local residents to participate in the workshops, the program ensures fair participation opportunities while enabling participants to create unique maps as the workshop's output. In recognition of this, the Handwritten Map Workshop to Rediscover the Charm of Local Areas won the Good Design Award in 2020. This program is open to all generations, and participants can interact with each other to discover how "your everyday life is someone else's extraordinary life." This program helps participants discover local tourism resources and foster city pride. The "handwritten maps" we refer to are packed with know-how for rediscovering local charm and functioning as a love letter to the region.

[0012] Currently, with the increase in inbound tourists, people are concentrating in certain tourist destinations, causing problems of tourism pollution that places a burden on local communities and the environment. At the same time, there is a need to discover and utilize new tourism resources in areas that have not traditionally been recognized as tourist destinations. This is precisely where we believe that the use of "hand-drawn maps" is needed to utilize the daily life of the region as a tourism resource, leading to the decentralization of tourism and further fostering city pride in one's own region.

[0013] In other words, we thought that "hand-drawn maps" would be the best way to attract these untapped tourism resources to inbound tourists. This is because, for inbound tourists, the experiences that we consider to be everyday are, in fact, the extraordinary experiences they have experienced. "Hand-drawn maps" are a way to unearth and express these experiences, and we are convinced that a tourism information system that utilizes them will solve the problem of uneven distribution of inbound tourists and effectively utilize Japan's tourism resources.

[0014] The problem that this invention aims to solve is to solve the problems of uneven distribution of tourist destinations and tourist pollution caused by the increase in inbound tourists, and to provide a system for discovering and utilizing undiscovered tourist resources.

[0015] In other words, this invention is premised on content that allows users to rediscover the charms of a region in the process of creating a hand-drawn map, and its main objective is to stimulate users' interest and encourage them to take action by combining the familiarity of hand-drawn maps with the convenience of digital technology.Furthermore, this invention provides a system that allows tourists to instantly photograph and post anything they find "interesting" or "attractive" based on hand-drawn maps, and share that information as word-of-mouth, while at the same time using image characters and coupons to eliminate uneven distribution of tourist destinations and promote the discovery of new tourist resources. [Means for solving the problem]

[0016] First, the present invention comprises an information provision program characterized by displaying a map display section that converts hand-drawn maps into electronic data and displays them, and a photo display section that displays landscape photos taken at locations featured on the map, in a list format on the same hierarchical level.

[0017] Secondly, in addition to the first inventive element, the present invention may be configured such that the photo display section is incorporated into a column display section in which the photographer can write comments, such as information about the location where the photo was taken.

[0018] Thirdly, in addition to the second inventive element, the present invention may be configured such that a symbol can be added to the column display section to indicate the viewer's intention to recommend other viewers to view the article if the viewer finds it useful.

[0019] Fourthly, in addition to the second inventive element, the present invention may be configured such that the column display section displays a list of a plurality of items, and when a significant item among these is identified based on a predetermined action, a lower-level page is displayed in a form linked to the item, and visitors can write comments and attach and display photos they have taken themselves.

[0020] Fifthly, in addition to the first inventive element, the present invention provides that the hand-drawn map is made of a printed material that has been perforated or die-cut to fit an original mold with motifs of glasses or symbols, and that a decorative filter with a motif of glasses can be inserted into the landscape photograph.

[0021] The present invention is sixthly characterized in that, in addition to the first invention component, the map display unit and / or the photograph display unit A link inviting a viewer to a questionnaire form may be attached to the display unit, and when the viewer answers the questionnaire form, a coupon that can be used in the area shown on the hand-drawn map may be issued. [Effects of the Invention]

[0022] According to the first aspect of the present invention, a map display section that digitizes and displays a hand-drawn map and a photo display section that displays landscape photos taken at locations featured on the map are displayed on the same hierarchical level. This allows users to appreciate the warmth and individuality of the hand-drawn map while easily viewing actual landscape photos associated with the location. This allows for more intuitive and emotionally appealing information than was possible with conventional, uniform electronic maps, thereby attracting users' attention and enriching their map information viewing experience. For example, during the planning stage of a trip, enjoying the atmosphere of a destination depicted on a hand-drawn map while simultaneously viewing actual landscape photos of the location can help develop a more concrete image and increase motivation to visit.

[0023] According to a second aspect of the present invention, the photo display unit incorporates a column display unit in which the photographer can write comments, such as information about the shooting location. This not only displays landscape photos, but also allows viewers to learn about the photographer's intentions, background, and emotions conveyed in the photo. This allows viewers to share the photographer's personal perspectives and experiences in addition to the information obtained from the photo, deepening their understanding and empathy for the photo. As a result, viewers can obtain more multifaceted and in-depth information, thereby improving the quality of information provided. For example, if the photographer writes comments about the history of a certain landscape photo or memories of the visit, viewers will be more likely to feel attached to and familiar with the place.

[0024] According to a third aspect of the present invention, the column display section allows a viewer to add a symbol indicating their intention to recommend other viewers to view the column if they found it useful, allowing the viewer to easily share and recommend information they find valuable with other viewers. This naturally makes it easier for high-quality information to be displayed at the top of the list, improving the reliability and usefulness of the information. Furthermore, by referring to the ratings of other viewers, new viewers can efficiently access useful information, which has the effect of stimulating information sharing throughout the community. For example, if a particular column is rated "helpful" by many viewers, the column will have more opportunities to be seen by more people, and the information can be expected to spread widely.

[0025] According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, the column display unit displays a list of multiple items. When a significant item is identified based on a predetermined action, a link to the corresponding lower-level page is displayed, allowing visitors to post comments and attach photos they have taken. This provides an opportunity for viewers to go beyond simply browsing information and participate as information providers themselves. By sharing their own perspectives and experiences, viewers can more actively participate in the information provision process, increasing the diversity and depth of information. Furthermore, promoting two-way communication encourages the formation of a user community and enhances the site's value as a forum for sharing information. For example, a viewer who is impressed by a particular column can further enrich the column's content by posting their own comments and related photos, making it a useful source of information for other viewers.

[0026] According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, the hand-drawn map is a printed material with a motif of glasses or symbols, perforated or die-cut to fit an original mold. Furthermore, decorative filters with a glasses motif can be inserted into the landscape photograph, adding a playful and visually appealing touch to the information provided. This allows users not only to obtain information, but also to be more impressed and more likely to remember it for a long time through visual enjoyment and a unique experience. Furthermore, the use of a specific motif enhances the program's branding effect and differentiates it from other information services. For example, hand-drawn maps and photo filters with a glasses motif provide a visually unified and fun look, attracting users' attention.

[0027] According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, the map display unit and / or the photograph display unit A link to a survey form is provided, and when viewers respond to the survey, they are issued a coupon valid for the area shown on the hand-drawn map, effectively linking information provision with user action. This allows users to receive a valuable incentive as an extension of viewing the information, leading to increased service usage. Furthermore, the survey also allows users to understand their needs and interests, which can be used to improve services and promote marketing activities in the future. This increases the value of information provision and contributes to business results. For example, by offering coupons for restaurants in a specific area to users who view a hand-drawn map of that area, users can be encouraged to actually visit the location and contribute to revitalizing the local economy. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0028] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic diagram showing the overall configuration of an image display program according to the present invention; [Figure 2]10 is a screen example showing a handwritten map converted into electronic data and displayed on a map display unit. [Figure 3] This is an example in which a list of landscape photos is displayed on the photo display section in correspondence with points on a map. [Figure 4] 10 is a configuration example of a column display section in which comments can be written along with photos. [Figure 5] This is an example of a UI configuration that allows viewers to express their opinions (by adding symbols) to columns. [Figure 6] 10 is an example of a screen of a lower layer page that is displayed when a significant column is selected. [Figure 7] An example of a hand-drawn map with decorative motifs and a photo with an eyeglasses-type filter applied. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the flow from guidance to a questionnaire form to issuing a coupon. [Figure 9] 10 is a flowchart of an information providing program according to an embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0029] An embodiment of the present invention generally comprises the following components: -Hand-drawn maps are imported as electronic data and displayed on the map display. -Scenery photos taken at locations featured on the map are displayed in the photo display area, and are listed on the same level. -A column display area will be provided where the photographer can write comments along with the photo. · Allow viewers to add symbols to comments as a sign of their sympathy or recommendation. · Trigger particularly meaningful comments to transition to a lower-level detail page, where visitors can post their own photos and add additional comments. Hand-drawn maps are made up of printed materials with visually striking motifs (such as glasses) that can be applied to photos as decorative filters. It also includes a mechanism that guides users from the map and photo display area to a questionnaire form, and issues coupons that can be used in the local area in exchange for responses.

[0030] The following effects are believed to be achieved by the embodiments of the present invention. In other words, according to an embodiment of the present invention, the appeal of analog hand-drawn maps can be re-utilized through digitization, preserving their visual appeal while providing a variety of elements such as photos, comments, and questionnaires in an integrated manner. Furthermore, by encouraging active participation from viewers, a system can be created for extensively disseminating and sharing the value of local resources. Responses to questionnaires enable the collection of local information, and coupons can be issued to encourage actual visits and purchasing behavior.

[0031] An embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail below without reference to the drawings. The image display program according to this embodiment is designed to assist with tourist guides and local experiences, and is configured to enable users to view and manipulate hand-drawn maps and photos, comments, etc. associated with the maps in a visually easy-to-understand and interactive manner.

[0032] A program according to one embodiment of the present invention mainly consists of the following components: a map display section, a photo display section, a column display section, a function for expressing opinions, linking with lower-level pages, visual decoration elements, and a survey / incentive function. Each component will be described in detail below.

[0033] (1) Map display: A hand-drawn map drawn by a user or operator is converted into electronic data by scanning or photographing it, and then displayed on the map display. The map is drawn to highlight specific locations such as tourist spots, facilities, and landmarks, and these locations are linked to photos and comments.

[0034] (2) Photo display section: For each point on the map, a landscape photo taken at that point is displayed. The map display and photo display are on the same level and are arranged side by side so that the user can see them at a glance. This allows the user to intuitively grasp the visual connections.

[0035] The effect of the above elements (1) and (2): More detailed information that could not be included on a handwritten paper map due to space limitations can be found in the article. Also, unlike a handwritten paper map, the latest information can be found on the web.

[0036] (3) Column display section (comment function): The photo display section includes a column display section where the photographer can write comments and additional information (date and time of photo, recommended time zone, means of transportation, etc.) This column allows for free text entry and functions as a medium for sharing tourist experiences.

[0037] Effect achieved by the component (3) above: By being able to see multiple photos and comments of the same place taken by other users, you can learn about the experience of the place chronologically and from the photographer's subjective point of view, such as differences in seasons and time of day, the situation during an event, and differences in the perspective from which the photo was taken. Whether it's a hand-drawn map or the same place that you cherish, each viewer's perspective will give you different experiences and impressions, and this function allows you to share these.

[0038] (4) Function to express opinions (annotating symbols): Viewers can add symbols (e.g., stars, like buttons, etc.) to the column display area to indicate their opinions, such as "I found this helpful" or "I would like to recommend this to others." This promotes the aggregation of evaluations among users.

[0039] Effect of the above component (4): An interactive feedback loop is formed between viewers and contributors, which has the beneficial effect of stimulating the sharing of knowledge about local information and tourist experiences. With paper "hand-drawn maps," bringing a hand-drawn map with you when visiting the area also serves as a way to express gratitude to the mapmaker who disseminated the information. In the same way, on the web, you can express gratitude and feedback to those who have shared their knowledge. It can be a tool for positive expression.

[0040] (5) Linkage with lower-level pages (expanded structure): For comments in the column display area that have received high ratings from viewers or that the administrators deem significant, a link is activated by a specific action (e.g., clicking or exceeding a threshold number of likes), and a lower-level page related to the comment is displayed. On this page, users can post more detailed reviews, upload photos they have taken, and add comments.

[0041] Effects of component (5) above: While ensuring the reliability and practicality of information, it is possible to promote the multi-layering and sophistication of posted content, which has the beneficial effect of facilitating the accumulation of knowledge among users and deepening local experiences. It is possible to naturally extract important posts from a basic comment list, providing access to more in-depth information to viewers who are interested in the content. Furthermore, on lower-level pages, visitors themselves can post detailed reviews, upload photos, and write additional comments, realizing a participatory expansion of information rather than simply viewing it.

[0042] (6) Visual decorative elements: The map itself is composed of printed matter with designs featuring motifs such as glasses and specific symbols. For example, applying perforation or die-cutting to the map enhances its visual and tactile appeal. In addition, digital filters such as glasses, specific symbols, and motifs unique to the region can be overlaid on the photo display, enhancing visual unity and entertainment value.

[0043] Effect of component (6) above: Introducing themed decorative elements in both the real and digital worlds has the beneficial effect of stimulating viewers' interest and enhancing the immersive and entertaining aspects of the tourist experience and information search. In particular, encouraging people to submit photos of tourist spots requires a mechanism that makes them want to do so. For this reason, combining the real and the digital is effective, such as by photographing the scenery or subject matter through eyeglass-shaped holes in a hand-drawn paper map, thereby expressing the appeal of the resulting photo. It's like a "theme" and "answer" game. Depending on the region, die-cutting the silhouette of a character representing the region or the shape of a mountain can encourage people to take photos together, while also serving as a means of promoting the region.

[0044] (7) Survey and incentive function: In addition, the map display or photo display area has a link that directs viewers to a survey form. As an incentive, respondents are issued coupons that can be used in the area depicted on the map. In addition to coupons, incentives such as digital gifts can also be displayed. This system is expected to encourage active participation by viewers and have a ripple effect on the local economy.

[0045] Effects of the above component (7): It is possible to efficiently collect feedback on interest in the region and experiences through responses to questionnaires, and to encourage actual visits and purchasing behavior by issuing coupons and digital gifts. In addition, by taking into account location information and date and time information, it is possible to eliminate uneven distribution of tourist destinations by changing the content of coupons and other incentives.

[0046] This image display program, which is one embodiment of the present invention, combines the charm of analog maps with the convenience of digital images and information, enabling a participatory experience among viewers and providing a means to communicate the appeal of a region in a multifaceted way.

[0047] Next, an embodiment of an information providing program to which the present invention is applied will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that, for the sake of convenience, in this specification, more detailed explanation than necessary may be omitted. For example, detailed explanation of already well-known matters or redundant explanation of substantially the same configuration may be omitted.

[0048] The information provision program of the present invention provides a platform that allows users to view local information through hand-drawn maps and also to transmit and share that information themselves. This program is realized with the configuration shown in Figure 1, and is expected to be provided, for example, as an application installed on an information terminal such as a smartphone, tablet, or personal computer, or as a web service accessible through a web browser.

[0049] First, the main components and processing flow of this program will be explained. Figure 1 is a schematic diagram showing the overall configuration of the information provision program according to the present invention. This program is mainly composed of a "map display unit 100," a "photo display unit 200," a "column display unit 300," an "information submission unit 400," and a "survey and coupon issuing unit 500." Each of these units is realized by data processed by an information processing device (e.g., a server, cloud service, etc.) not shown, and a user interface (UI) on the user terminal.

[0050] Next, we will explain the process of converting handwritten maps into digital data and displaying them (see Figure 2). is a service that converts hand-drawn maps into electronic data by scanning, photographing, or using a dedicated input tool. The digitalized handwritten map is registered in the system. This digitalized handwritten map is displayed as image data on the map display unit (see Figure 2). The map display unit has functions that allow users to zoom in and out and scroll the map. Handwritten maps reflect the creator's personality and feelings for the area, and have a warmth and charm that differs from traditional, uniform maps. The system links location information such as latitude and longitude to each point on the digitalized handwritten map. This links specific locations on the handwritten map to real-world geographic information.

[0051] Next, we will explain the display of landscape photos and the photo display section (see Figure 3). The photo display section displays landscape photos taken by users corresponding to locations featured on the handwritten map (e.g., specific buildings, shops, tourist attractions, etc.). Figure 3 shows an example of a list of landscape photos displayed on the photo display section corresponding to points on the map. The photo display section is located on the same hierarchical level as the map display section, allowing users to easily view actual landscape photos associated with a location while viewing the handwritten map. Landscape photos are "everyday" scenes captured from the user's perspective and contain a more personal charm that is not found in traditional guidebooks. Photos are either uploaded directly from the user's device or taken and posted using the camera function provided by the system.

[0052] Next, we will explain the column display section and comment function (see Figure 4). Landscape photos displayed in the photo display section are associated with a column display section in which the photographer can enter comments (see Figure 4). The column display section can express the story behind the photo in text, such as information about the shooting location, anecdotes from the time of shooting, and feelings about the place. This allows viewers to share the photographer's personal perspective and experiences in addition to the visual information obtained from the photo, deepening their understanding and empathy for the photo. Columns can be written in either short caption format or detailed article format.

[0053] Next, we will explain the function for expressing interest (symbol annotation) (see Figure 5). The column display section has a function that allows viewers to add symbols (for example, a "Like" button, a star rating, or a specific icon) to express their interest if they find the content of the column "helpful" or "interesting" (see Figure 5). Adding these symbols is intended to recommend the column to other viewers. This makes high-quality information and relatable columns visually easier to understand, improving the reliability and usefulness of the information. Furthermore, columns with many symbols attached will be displayed higher in the system, increasing their exposure and creating a mechanism for widely disseminating useful information.

[0054] Next, we will explain the deployment to lower-level pages and the user posting function (see Figure 6). When multiple columns are listed in the system display, if a specific column is identified as significant based on a specific action (e.g., tapping, clicking, adding a certain number of symbols, etc.), a lower-level page will be displayed linking to that column (see Figure 6). On this lower-level page, visitors can write comments about the column and attach related photos they have taken themselves. This allows users to go beyond simply browsing information and participate as information contributors, sharing their own perspectives and experiences, thereby increasing the diversity and depth of the information. It also promotes two-way communication between users and encourages the formation of communities where users with common interests gather.

[0055] Next, we will explain hand-drawn maps and photo filters using decorative motifs (see Figure 7). Hand-drawn maps are sometimes provided as printed materials with perforated or die-cut designs, featuring motifs of eyeglasses or specific symbols. This gives the printed hand-drawn map itself a unique design, enhancing the value of the physical experience. Furthermore, decorative filters with eyeglasses motifs can be embedded into landscape photos (see Figure 7). These filters add playfulness and visual appeal to photos, allowing users to enjoy editing and sharing them more. Using specific motifs enhances the branding effect of the program and differentiates it from other information services.

[0056] Next, we will explain how the survey and coupon issuance are linked (see Figure 8). A link leading to a survey form is attached to the map display and / or photo display. When a user answers this survey form, a coupon that can be used in the area displayed on the hand-drawn map is issued (see Figure 8). The survey is used to collect information about the user's interests, needs, and visiting experience. Issuing a coupon serves as an incentive for users to move from viewing information to the next action, leading to increased use of services and attracting more visitors to the area. The collected survey data is used for marketing activities to revitalize the area and for improving services, further increasing the value of the information provided.

[0057] Next, the flowchart shown in Fig. 9 will be described. The information processing method according to this embodiment starts with reading a handwritten map QR code (registered trademark), and then takes an image via a specific application, acquires location information and time records, conducts a survey, and enables SNS linkage. This relates to a system that enables

[0058] Reading handwritten map QR code (registered trademark) and launching the application: The user first reads the QR code (registered trademark) attached to the hand-drawn map. This QR code (registered trademark) triggers the launch of a specific browser application.

[0059] Browser application launch and camera access permission: When the QR code is read, a browser application is launched, which requests permission to access the device's camera function.

[0060] If camera access is not permitted (NO), the process is aborted and the user is prompted to enter the relevant SNS account. You will be guided to Puri. If camera access is permitted (YES), proceed to the next step.

[0061] Location and time record permissions: After camera access is granted, the browser application requests permission to obtain the user's location information and time record (date and time information).

[0062] If the acquisition of this information is not permitted (NO), the captured photo data, location information, and time record will not be stored on the server, but will be redirected directly to the corresponding SNS app. If acquisition of this information is permitted (YES), proceed to the next step.

[0063] Viewing and taking frame images: If the scanned QR code (registered trademark) has limited (or unlimited) time and location information displayed, the browser application will display a frame image with that information on the camera image. The user can then press the photo button. By pressing the photo button, the frame image and the photo are combined and saved as photo data.

[0064] Show Survey Menu: After taking a photo, the browser application displays a menu for filling out a questionnaire.

[0065] If the questionnaire entry is selected (YES), the questionnaire entry screen will be displayed. You can answer the questionnaire on this screen and the data will be sent. The sent questionnaire data will be saved on the server.

[0066] If the survey entry is not selected (NO), the survey entry is skipped and the THANKS screen is displayed directly.

[0067] THANKS screen display and coupon display: After answering the survey or skipping the survey, the THANKS screen will be displayed. If coupon information exists on the server, the coupon will be displayed on this THANKS screen.

[0068] Display and select the SNS sharing menu: After submitting the survey or after the THANKS screen is displayed, a share menu for SNS will be displayed. Users can select an SNS from this menu and share the photos and related information they have taken on the SNS.

[0069] Data storage on the server and SNS integration: The photographed photo data, location information, time record, and survey data are stored appropriately on the server. If you choose to share the data on social media, the information will be shared with the corresponding social media app.

[0070] This embodiment enables seamless photography with location and time information added, surveys, and SNS integration, starting from a handwritten map QR code (registered trademark). This is intended to improve user engagement and make information gathering more efficient.

[0071] Next, we will explain the program's operating environment and data management. This information provision program is provided through an application or web browser that runs on information terminals such as smartphones, tablets, and PCs. The program works in conjunction with a database that manages map data, photo data, column data, user information, survey results, coupon information, and more. The database is equipped with security measures and is operated with consideration for protecting user privacy. Data is also updated in real time, providing an environment where users can always view and post the latest information.

[0072] Next, we will explain the server system and client system. This program is realized through the cooperation of the server system and client system. The server system provides the core functions of the program, such as database management, processing of handwritten map data, storage and distribution of photo and column data, survey processing, and coupon issuance processing. The client system is an application or web browser installed on the user's device, and has the function of displaying data received from the server and sending user input to the server. The client system provides an intuitive and easy-to-use user interface, and is designed to allow users to smoothly browse and post information. [Example]

[0073] Next, we will explain a specific example of user experience. For example, if User A is in Isehara City, Kanagawa Prefecture, If you are interested in a particular area, you open this program. First, you are shown a hand-drawn map created by local residents, and you are drawn in by its warm illustrations. The hand-drawn map marks hidden gems and scenic spots known to locals.

[0074] User A taps the cafe icon on the handwritten map. Then, the photo display area shows Photos of the cafe's exterior, interior, recommended menu, etc. are displayed in a list. In addition, the photographer, local resident B, wrote, "The Oyama mushroom curry here is excellent! A cooking expert The recipes developed in collaboration with local people are surprisingly delicious. What's more, the 12.5cm tall rice tower is a must-photograph!"

[0075] User A marks this column as "helpful" and clicks "Find more information" Tap the column to go to the lower level page. On the lower level page, user C wrote, "I also eat I discovered that she had posted a photo of curry that she had taken herself with the comment, "I tried it! The garlic aroma and flavor is relatively strong, and it's a dish that will invigorate your tired body."

[0076] User A feels like he wants to visit this cafe too, so he returns to the hand-drawn map screen. They can then search for coupons available in the area, find a link to a survey form, and answer it to receive a discount coupon for the cafe.

[0077] In this way, this program can provide a seamless information experience that starts with a hand-drawn map, stimulates users' curiosity, and encourages them to take action.

[0078] Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments, and various modifications are possible without departing from the spirit of the present invention. For example, the layout and design of the map display section, photo display section, and column display section may be modified as appropriate to improve the user experience. Furthermore, the type of symbols used to express intentions, the method of adding them, and the details of the posting function on lower-level pages may be adjusted to take user convenience into consideration. Furthermore, the content of the survey and the conditions for issuing coupons can be flexibly set depending on the purpose and form of provision of the service. [Industrial Applicability]

[0079] This invention can be used in a wide range of industries, including the tourism industry, local commerce, and local branding. In particular, it is useful for local governments and DMOs (Distance Tourism Organizations) that aim to revitalize local areas and promote tourism. It can be a useful tool for any company.

Claims

1. This information providing program is characterized in that a map display section for converting a handwritten map into electronic data and displaying it, and a photo display section for displaying landscape photos taken at places featured on the map are displayed in a list on the same hierarchical level.

2. 2. The information providing program according to claim 1, wherein the photo display section is incorporated into a column display section in which the photographer can write comments such as information about the location of the photo.

3. 3. The information providing program according to claim 2, wherein the column display section is capable of adding a symbol indicating an intention to recommend other readers to view the column if the reader finds it useful.

4. The information provision program according to claim 2, characterized in that the column display section displays a list of multiple items, and when a significant item among these is identified based on a specified action, a lower-level page is displayed in a linked form, allowing visitors to write comments and attach and display photos they have taken themselves.

5. The information provision program described in claim 1, characterized in that the hand-drawn map is a printed material that has been perforated or die-cut to fit an original mold with motifs of glasses or symbols, and that a decorative filter with a motif of glasses can be inserted into the landscape photograph.

6. A link inviting users to a questionnaire form is attached to the map display section and / or photo display section.

2. The information providing program according to claim 1, wherein when a viewer answers the questionnaire form, a coupon that can be used in the area shown on the hand-drawn map is issued.

Citation Information

Patent Citations

  • JP12007‐241903A