System for generating virtual town where artificial life lives, virtual town where artificial life lives, and method for generating virtual town

Abstract

To realize a virtual town where an artificial life lives by merging a 3D city model and an artificial life technology.SOLUTION: A system (10) according to the present invention generates a virtual town where artificial life lives. A terrain generation unit (12) generates a terrain model of a virtual town on the basis of terrain data defining a terrain of the town. A 3D city generation part (13) generates a 3D city model on the basis of 3D city information including structure information and property information of structures such as buildings and city facilities. An artificial life generation unit 14 generates an artificial life model that has a genetic element like a living thing, acts autonomously, and reproduces and / or evolves. An integration part (15) arranges the 3D city model and the artificial life model on the topography of the town, and calculates their interaction.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] This invention relates to the creation of virtual environments that combine 3D city modeling and artificial life technologies, including the design and simulation of virtual cities, digital twin technology, and the creation of interactive environments using virtual reality. [Background technology]

[0002] In recent years, the gap between urban and rural areas has become more severe amid rapid global population growth and urbanization. According to OECD statistics, the income gap between urban and rural areas averages more than 20%, and rural areas face the problem of fewer educational institutions and lower quality medical facilities. Furthermore, 2020 data from the Cabinet Office indicates that approximately one-third of Japanese municipalities may disappear by 2040. This situation threatens people's well-being and causes various social problems.

[0003] Regional disparities affect not only education and medical care, but also economic opportunities. While there are many high-paying jobs and business opportunities in urban areas, employment opportunities are limited in rural areas. This situation also affects immigration issues and international conflicts. Historically, there have been many cases where population growth and regional disparities have led to immigration issues and international conflicts. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] US8269764B2 Three dimensional spatial engine in a relational database management system (Application date: October 3, 2007, Patent holder: Oracle International Corp.) [Patent Document 2] Patent No. 3132282: Planning method and planning device (Application date: March 16, 1994, Patent holder: Hitachi Engineering Co., Ltd.) [Patent Document 3] JP 2023-157826 Information processing system, mobile body, information processing method, and program (Application date: October 25, 2022, Applicant: Sensyn Robotics Co., Ltd.) [Patent Document 4] US10614255B2 Computer-implemented land planning system and method with GIS integration (Application date: August 1, 2017, Patent holder: Bentley Systems Inc.) Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] This invention was developed in recognition of the importance of connecting two geographically distant towns or countries. The main purpose of this system is to help people from different regions gain a deeper understanding of each other's cultures and characteristics, and to expand opportunities for connection and exchange. By expanding this system widely, we aim to promote international understanding and contribute to world peace and well-being.

[0006] The problems to be solved by the present invention relate to the following two technical fields.

[0007] The first technical field is related to 3D city models. Traditionally, geographic information systems (GIS) have used two-dimensional spatial data to represent ground objects (such as buildings and administrative boundaries). However, recent advances in computer storage and visualization tools have made it possible to use three-dimensional representations. Patent Document 1, for example, proposes a technology in this first technical field. According to this document, a 3D GIS system accurately receives, stores, verifies, and evaluates the validity of data. This improves the ability to handle larger and more complex geospatial data, enabling users to perform more advanced three-dimensional spatial analysis. These technological advances are accelerating the social implementation of 3D city models. For example, the PLATEAU project, promoted by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism, aims to generate 3D urban spaces and utilize them in fields such as urban planning, disaster prevention, and tourism. This technology defines geographical features in CityGML data, an international standard format, and visualizes urban spaces as collections of these features, enabling effective urban planning and disaster prevention measures. However, as of the end of fiscal year 2023, only about 200 of the 1,700 municipalities nationwide have 3D city model data, and there is a lack of coverage, particularly for old buildings such as the Kintai Bridge and towns overseas.

[0008] The second technical field is artificial life (ALIFE). Artificial life is an artificially created living organism capable of autonomous behavior and adapting to its environment. This technology contributes to research into the origin and evolution of life and the workings of the brain, and is also applied to simulations that generate complex social phenomena in human society. In this second technical field, for example, Patent Document 2 proposes a genetic algorithm, an optimization method inspired by the evolutionary process of living organisms, to optimize planning problems in various fields within a realistically acceptable time frame. This method considers elements of a plan (such as which machine to use) as analogous to biological genes and combines them to represent them like chromosomes. Multiple processing devices capable of parallel operation each gradually modify their own plans (artificial life individuals) (a propagation process) to create new plans. The old and new plans are then compared, and the plans that best suit the purpose are retained, while the unsuitable plans are discarded (an evaluation and selection process). If its plan remains unchanged after a while, it incorporates good plans from other processors and further improves it (autonomous arms race processing). Using this method, it is said that many different plans can be tried in parallel, ultimately finding the optimal plan. However, prior patent document 2 focuses on optimizing planning problems, and merely employs a genetic algorithm, a method similar to artificial life, as a means to achieve this. In this second technical field, there has been insufficient research into how these artificial life forms behave in real urban environments and how their population dynamics unfold.

[0009] Here, there are various issues in the boundary area between the first and second technical fields, and prior art documents have been disclosed.

[0010] Patent Document 3 proposes an information processing system that generates an integrated three-dimensional model by combining data showing the internal layout of a structure with data showing the external layout of the structure (e.g., CityGML data), and uses this to generate route information for a moving object (e.g., a drone) moving inside and outside the structure. However, this technology is limited to generating travel routes for mechanical moving objects such as drones, and does not include the generation of entire virtual 3D cities or the dynamics of artificial life that inhabit them, so the scope of the simulation is limited.

[0011] Patent Document 4 proposes heuristic approaches such as evolutionary algorithms, neural networks, and ant colony optimization algorithms to help real estate developers, companies, government agencies, and others calculate plans for optimally locating buildings and facilities on undeveloped land while minimizing costs. However, this technology focuses primarily on creating plans for efficient land use while minimizing economic costs, and does not include the generation of entire virtual 3D cities or the dynamics of artificial life that inhabit them, so the scope of the simulation is limited.

[0012] To address the above challenges, the inventors of this invention have developed a system that combines 3D city models with artificial life technology, allowing artificial life to behave naturally in a virtual space that mimics a real urban environment. This system is expected to promote mutual understanding and cooperation between different regions, thereby serving as a bridge between countries and ultimately contributing to the realization of global well-being. [Means for solving the problem]

[0013] The main invention of the present invention for solving the above problems is a system for generating a virtual town in which a 3D city model and an artificial life model coexist, the system including: a terrain generation unit that generates a terrain model of the virtual town based on terrain data that defines the terrain of the town; a 3D city generation unit that generates a 3D city model based on 3D city data that includes structural information and attribute information of structures such as buildings and urban facilities; an artificial life generation unit that generates artificial life models that have genetic elements like living organisms, behave autonomously, reproduce and / or evolve; and an integration unit that places the 3D city model and the artificial life model on the terrain of the town and calculates their interactions. [Effects of the Invention]

[0014] This invention first creates a virtual town where 3D city models and artificial life models coexist, providing an interactive space that closely mimics a real urban environment. By allowing artificial life to behave naturally within this space, various scenarios in urban environments can be simulated, potentially contributing to the formulation of real-world urban plans and disaster prevention measures. Furthermore, it functions as a platform for promoting mutual understanding between different regions and deepening international cooperation. This is expected to promote communication that transcends cultural differences and serve as a bridge between countries. Ultimately, this system has the potential to contribute to the realization of global well-being and the creation of a sustainable society. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0015] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is an activity diagram illustrating a system according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 10 is an activity diagram illustrating a system according to a second embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 10 is an activity diagram showing a system according to a third embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is an activity diagram showing a system according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 5]FIG. 10 is an activity diagram showing a system according to a fifth embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 13 is an activity diagram showing a system according to a sixth embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 13 is an activity diagram showing a system according to a seventh embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0016] The following describes embodiments of the present invention. A system according to an embodiment of the present invention has the following configuration.

[0017] [Section 1] The system (10) according to the first embodiment generates a virtual town inhabited by artificial life, where a 3D city model and an artificial life model coexist. A terrain generation unit (12) generates a terrain model of the town based on terrain data that defines the terrain of the virtual town. A 3D city generation unit (13) generates a 3D city model based on 3D city data that includes structural information and attribute information of structures such as buildings and urban facilities. An artificial life generation unit (14) generates an artificial life model that has genetic elements, behaves autonomously, reproduces, and evolves like a living organism. An integration unit (15) places the 3D city model and the artificial life model on the town's terrain and calculates their interactions.

[0018] The benefits are as follows. First, by generating a virtual town where 3D city models and artificial life models coexist, an interactive space that closely mimics the actual urban environment is provided. By allowing the artificial life to behave naturally within this space, various scenarios in the urban environment can be simulated, which can be useful for formulating urban plans and disaster prevention measures in the real world. Furthermore, it can function as a platform to promote mutual understanding between different regions and deepen international cooperation. This is expected to encourage communication that transcends cultural differences and serve as a bridge between countries. Ultimately, this system has the potential to contribute to the realization of global well-being and the creation of a sustainable society.

[0019] Each component is described in detail below. The terrain generation unit (12) accurately generates the terrain of the virtual town and provides a real-time simulation environment. Terrain data is often obtained from a GIS (geographic information system) in CityGML or Shapefile format. Based on this data, terrain is generated using 3D modeling software (e.g., Blender or Maya) or a dedicated terrain generation tool. Data processing is performed using programming languages ​​such as Python or C#, and high-performance CPUs and GPUs, or in some cases cloud servers (AWS, Azure, etc.), are used.

[0020] The 3D city generation unit (13) accurately visualizes 3D models of buildings and urban facilities, providing users with an intuitive understanding. 3D models are created based on data from actual buildings obtained using 3D scanners and LiDAR, as well as data extracted from blueprints. 3D modeling software (Unity, Unreal Engine, etc.) is used for this. Data is typically in OBJ or FBX format.

[0021] The artificial life generation unit (14) calculates the behavior of an artificial life model that has genetic elements and acts autonomously, simulating its evolution and reproduction. It uses evolutionary computation techniques, including genetic algorithms and neuroevolution. These are executed by programs written in Python or Java, and behavioral patterns are learned using reinforcement learning and deep learning libraries (PyTorch, TensorFlow).

[0022] The integration unit (15) calculates the interactions between the 3D city model and the artificial life model, creating a dynamic environment for the virtual town. The integrated system is often built using game engines such as Unity or Unreal Engine, and utilizes CPUs, GPUs, and cloud servers to calculate the complex interactions. Information is exchanged using various communication devices, and data is sometimes handled in GeoJSON or other vector image formats.

[0023] These components can be implemented in a wide variety of ways. Display terminals include desktop computers, tablets, and smartphones, and output devices may include projectors and head-mounted displays (HMDs).

[0024] [Section 2] The system (20) according to the second embodiment further includes a connection unit (23). The connection unit generates multiple virtual towns (21, 22) with different characteristics and promotes interaction between these towns by allowing artificial life models to move back and forth between them.

[0025] The benefits are as follows: It promotes interaction and cooperation between virtual towns created by combining 3D city models and artificial life technology. This system generates multiple virtual towns with different characteristics, allowing artificial life models to move freely between these towns. As a result, the artificial life forms that are residents of the virtual towns can interact with each other and virtually deepen cultural and social mutual understanding. This is expected to promote cooperation between different regions and serve as a bridge between countries. Furthermore, this platform can also function as a testing ground for deepening understanding of complex social issues in the real world and exploring solutions to them. Therefore, this invention can significantly contribute to the realization of global well-being.

[0026] Each component is described in detail below. The connection unit (23) digitally generates multiple virtual towns with different characteristics and allows artificial life models to move between these towns. This interaction promotes information exchange and cultural interaction between the artificial life models in each virtual town. A high-performance server is required to manage the different virtual towns (21, 22) and enable data exchange between them. Data for each town is stored in GeoJSON or CityGML format, which accurately represents geographic information. 3D development environments such as Unity and Unreal Engine are used for development. The behavior of the artificial life models is controlled by evolutionary computing techniques such as genetic algorithms and neuroevolution. Group behavior-simulating algorithms such as ant colony optimization and boid algorithms may also be used. For communication technology, data exchange between different towns requires a high-speed Internet connection and a stable communication protocol. WebSocket and TCP / IP protocols are used for information synchronization and real-time processing. For the user interface, high-resolution displays and interactive interfaces are designed to make it easy for users to visually track interactions between virtual towns. Tablets, smartphones, and desktops are used, and in some cases projectors and head-mounted displays (HMDs) are used to enhance the sense of immersion. These components can also be realized in a variety of other ways. It is important to select the latest available technology, especially since advances in digital technology may introduce new development tools and communication technologies.

[0027] [Section 3] The system 30 according to the third embodiment further includes a projection unit 31. The projection unit 31 projects a virtual town onto a three-dimensional object existing in real space.

[0028] The benefits are as follows: This process allows users to visually experience a virtual world created by 3D city models and artificial life technology in an actual, physical space. Specifically, using this technology in public places and educational facilities can deepen visitors and students' understanding of virtual cities with different cultures and social structures, improving the quality of international understanding education. Furthermore, this technology can also be applied to simulations of solving real-world problems, such as urban planning and disaster prevention training, enabling more practical education and training. This is expected to serve as a bridge between countries and contribute to the realization of global well-being.

[0029] Each component is described in detail below. The projection unit (31) uses projection mapping technology to project a virtual 3D city model onto a three-dimensional model existing in real space. This allows the virtual city to be displayed on the real-world model in real time, allowing viewers to experience the 3D city model in three dimensions. Projection technology: High-performance projectors are used, including short-throw projectors and high-resolution projectors with 4K resolution. Projection mapping is a technique that distorts images to fit the shape of the 3D model, making it fit the shape of the real world. Development environment and software: Specialized software such as VPT (Video Projection Tool) and MadMapper is used to design and execute projection mapping. 3D game engines such as Unity and Unreal Engine are also integrated to manage and control the dynamic 3D city model. Data processing: 3D models are typically created in OBJ, FBX, or CityGML format. This data is processed using Python or C# and converted into a format understandable by the projector. Hardware: Projection requires a computer with high CPU and GPU computing power. An HMD (head-mounted display) may also be used for the actual projection. Communication technology: High-speed Ethernet or wireless LAN is used for information transmission and control, ensuring real-time performance. These technologies can also be realized in a variety of other ways. In particular, projection mapping technology and 3D data processing technology continue to evolve, and new tools and methods may be developed. Projection-related components may include desktop computers, tablets, and smartphones, and projector technology is also continually being updated.

[0030] [Section 4] The system (40) according to the fourth embodiment further includes a recording unit (41). The recording unit (41) records the shape and layout of the 3D city model, as well as the interaction between the artificial life model and the 3D city model, in chronological order. The artificial life evolution unit (42) detects changes over time based on the recorded data, and evolves or selectively selects the artificial life model according to the responses and changes.

[0031] The effects are as follows: The memory unit (41) records the shape and layout of the 3D city model and its interactions with the artificial life model in detail over time. This recorded data serves as a valuable source of information for deepening understanding of the urban environment and the interactions between the artificial life forms that operate within it. Furthermore, the artificial life evolution unit (42) uses the recorded data to detect changes over time and, based on this, evolves the artificial life model or selectively eliminates individuals that are not adapted to the environment. This process allows the model to better adapt to changes in the real-world environment and exhibit optimized behavior patterns in real time.

[0032] Each component will be described in detail.

[0033] The recording unit (41) records the shape and layout of the 3D city model, as well as the interaction between the artificial life model and the 3D city model, over time. This recording allows the system to provide basic data for subsequent analysis and evolutionary computation. Data format: Data from the geographic information system (GIS) is collected and stored in CityGML, OBJ, FBX, or GeoJSON format. Database technology: Database systems such as PostgreSQL and MongoDB are used to efficiently manage and make accessible the collected data. Programming language and library: Python and C# are used, and libraries such as Open3D and Pandas are used to organize and store data. Hardware: Servers equipped with high-performance CPUs and GPUs are used, and cloud services (AWS, GCP, Azure) are used to ensure scalability in data processing and storage.

[0034] The Artificial Life Evolution Department (42) detects changes over time based on the recorded data and evolves or selectively selects artificial life models accordingly. This process contributes to the generation of more effective or adaptive artificial life models. Algorithms: Genetic algorithms, neuroevolution, and evolutionary computing techniques are used to drive the evolution of artificial life models. This is done using custom software written in Python and Java. Deep Learning and Machine Learning: Machine learning frameworks such as PyTorch and TensorFlow are used to learn patterns from complex datasets and determine optimal evolution strategies. Computational Resources: Due to the large amount of computational resources required, cloud-based services equipped with high-performance GPUs are utilized. These components can also be realized in a variety of other ways. The development environment and the specific technologies used are constantly evolving, with new tools and methods being developed. Various imaging and information and communication equipment may also be used for data handling and processing.

[0035] [Section 5] The system (50) according to the fifth embodiment further includes a creature recognition unit (51) and a virtual reality ecosystem simulation unit (52). The creature recognition unit (51) detects the behavior of realistic creatures coexisting in a three-dimensional terrain model existing in real space using an optical or ultrasonic sensor and recognizes their positions using object detection technology. The virtual reality ecosystem simulation unit (52) estimates changes in the ecosystem based on the interactions between the recognized creatures and the artificial life model.

[0036] The benefits of this system are as follows: the ability to precisely simulate situations in which real-world organisms coexist with artificial life in a virtual environment. The organism recognition unit (51) uses optical or ultrasonic sensors to detect the location and behavior of real organisms, and accurately recognizes them using object detection technology. The virtual reality ecosystem simulation unit (52) uses this data to simulate interactions with artificial life and analyzes dynamic changes in the ecosystem in real time. This system will play an important role in the fields of ecological research and environmental protection, and will also function as a new educational tool.

[0037] Each component will be described in detail.

[0038] The creature recognition unit (51) detects the behavior of realistic creatures coexisting in a three-dimensional terrain model in real space and accurately recognizes their location. This allows the movement of creatures in the virtual environment to be reflected in real time, enabling more accurate simulations. The implementation methods are as follows: Sensor technology: High-precision optical cameras and ultrasonic sensors are used to detect the location and movement of creatures. These sensors are designed to capture movement and distance, and optical sensors in particular use LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) technology to precisely measure distance. Image processing technology: Image data of detected creatures is analyzed using image processing tools such as OpenCV and MATLAB (registered trademark). Object detection technology incorporates deep learning algorithms to identify creatures in real time and extract their location information.

[0039] The Virtual Reality Ecosystem Simulation Unit (52) simulates ecosystem changes within a virtual environment based on the interactions between recognized organisms and artificial life models. This simulation predicts environmental impacts and provides information useful for ecosystem management decision-making. Implementation methods include: Computational Modeling and Simulation: To simulate ecosystem changes, specialized ecosystem modeling software and custom scripts written in programming languages ​​such as Python and R are used. This incorporates neural networks and system dynamics models to calculate complex ecosystem interactions. Additionally, artificial life technologies (ALIFE technologies) such as ant colony optimization, optimal path finding, Boid's algorithm, collective behavior, collective memory, Couzin's algorithm, PSO (Planetary Swarm Optimization), and asynchronous partial task refinement (TAB) are also utilized. Data Processing and Storage: Computers equipped with powerful CPUs and GPUs are used for large-scale data processing, and cloud-based services (e.g., AWS, Azure) support the scaling of data storage and processing. These components can also be implemented in a variety of other ways. In particular, data processing and sensor technologies continue to evolve, with new tools and methods being developed regularly. Display technologies may include desktop computers, tablets, and smartphones, while projectors and HMDs may be used for real-time data visualization.

[0040] [Section 6] The system (60) according to the sixth embodiment further includes an external data acquisition unit (61) and a model update unit (62). The external data acquisition unit (61) acquires town data, including the town's population distribution and economic information, from an external server that makes the data public. The model update unit (62) updates the 3D city model and the artificial life model based on the acquired public town data.

[0041] The benefits are as follows: the external data acquisition unit can obtain the latest population distribution and economic information for a real town from an external server and use this information to update the 3D city model and artificial life model in real time. This system ensures that the virtual town is always based on the latest data, allowing users to accurately grasp and analyze changes in the real city. This will promote use in a wide range of fields, including urban planning, social science research, and educational programs.

[0042] Each component will be described in detail.

[0043] The external data acquisition unit (61) acquires data such as a city's population distribution and economic information from external servers. Based on this data, the 3D city model and the dynamics of artificial life are updated and visualized in real time. This allows users to grasp the latest city conditions in real time, enabling a more realistic virtual experience. Data sources: External servers providing information such as city demographics, economic data, and traffic flow are managed by governments or private companies. For example, they are accessed through RESTful APIs from government public data portals or private data service providers. Data formats: The acquired data are often provided in formats such as JSON, XML, and CSV. This data is converted into GIS data formats (CityGML, Shapefile, GeoJSON) to ensure compatibility with the 3D city model. Development environment and technology: Programming languages ​​such as Python and JavaScript are used to acquire and process data. Python, in particular, has a wealth of libraries (such as requests and Pandas) for acquiring and processing data from APIs, allowing for efficient data extraction and conversion. Real-time processing: Real-time communication technologies such as WebSocket are used to enable real-time data updates and visualization. This ensures that updated data is reflected in the system as soon as it is updated, allowing users to view the latest information. Computing resources: Processing large amounts of data in real time requires servers equipped with high-performance CPUs and GPUs. Using cloud services (such as AWS, Azure, and GCP) allows resources to be scaled as needed, balancing cost efficiency and performance. Display technology: Updated data is presented to users via display devices such as desktop computers, tablets, and smartphones. Projectors and HMDs can also be used to provide a more immersive experience. These technologies can also be implemented in a variety of other ways. From data acquisition to processing and display, ever-evolving digital technologies are being utilized to improve system accuracy and the user experience.

[0044] [Section 7] The system (70) according to the seventh embodiment further includes an external transmission recording unit (71) and a common distribution unit (72). The external transmission recording unit sequentially transmits and records data constituting the virtual town to a server. The common distribution unit distributes common virtual town data to the terminals of multiple users.

[0045] The benefits are as follows: the sequential transmission and recording of data that makes up the virtual town creates a consistent and continuous virtual environment. The external transmission and recording unit records the changing city model data on the server in real time, thereby maintaining the latest state of the virtual town. The common distribution unit then distributes this updated data to the devices of multiple users. This allows users from different regions and backgrounds to interact and cooperate within the same virtual space. This will result in deeper international understanding and cooperation, contributing to the realization of global well-being.

[0046] The external transmission recorder (71) sequentially records the data that make up the virtual town on the server. This record provides a foundation for efficiently managing the necessary information while maintaining data integrity. Database management: Highly scalable database systems (e.g., PostgreSQL, MongoDB) are used. These databases are capable of efficiently processing large volumes of transactions and queries. Data format: Data is stored in GIS data formats such as CityGML, Shapefile, and GeoJSON. This maintains the accuracy of geographic information and improves compatibility between systems. Cloud storage: Cloud platforms such as AWS, Azure, and GCP are used. This speeds up data backup, recovery, and access.

[0047] The common distribution unit (72) sequentially provides data acquired from the external recording unit to multiple user devices and distributes common virtual town data in response to requests from each device. This allows users to always receive the latest city information and enables an interactive experience. Communication technology: Real-time communication protocols such as WebSocket and HTTP / 2 are used for data distribution, enabling rapid data transmission and reception between the server and client. Programming language and framework: Node.js and Python are used to build the backend system for real-time data distribution. These technologies are suitable for asynchronous communication and event-driven application development. End-user devices: Data can be accessed on a variety of devices, including desktops, tablets, and smartphones. This allows users to view city data in any situation. These components can also be implemented in a variety of other ways. From data recording to distribution, ever-evolving digital technology is utilized to improve the system's accuracy and user experience. In addition, imaging equipment and information and communication devices may be used to handle the data, and display technologies such as projectors and HMDs may also be used.

[0048] [Section 8] The system creates a virtual town.

[0049] The virtual town provides users with an interactive environment that combines real-time data and advanced simulations for a wide range of applications, including education, entertainment, urban planning, and social science research.

[0050] The implementation methods are as follows: 3D modeling software: The buildings and infrastructure that make up the town are designed using advanced 3D modeling software such as Maya and Blender. This allows for detailed textures, realistic lighting, and complex geometric structures. Development environment: Game engines such as Unity and Unreal Engine are used, which handle virtual environment rendering, physics simulation, and user interaction. These engines provide plugins and APIs to allow the addition of custom functions. Data processing techniques: Python and C# are used to process external data (such as demographics, traffic flow, and weather information) and incorporate it into the virtual town simulation. The data is integrated in the form of GeoJSON and CityGML. Real-time communication: WebSocket and HTTP / 2 protocols are used to establish real-time data communication between the server and client, allowing users to experience changes in the virtual town in real time. Algorithms and libraries: Genetic algorithms, neuroevolution, and ant colony optimization are applied to simulate the dynamics of artificial life and the evolution of the city. These are supported by libraries such as PyTorch and Open3D. Hardware and display technology: Processing is performed on devices equipped with high-performance CPUs and GPUs, and the virtual town is displayed on desktops, tablets, smartphones, or head-mounted displays (HMDs). These technologies can also be realized in a variety of other ways. In particular, ever-evolving digital technologies are being utilized in data acquisition, processing, and display to improve the accuracy of the system and the user experience.

[0051] [Section 9] Users can use the system to create a virtual town inhabited by artificial life.

[0052] This method allows users to create virtual towns and experience them interactively, and is useful in a wide range of fields, including education, entertainment, urban planning, and disaster simulation.

[0053] The above-described embodiment is merely an example for promoting understanding of the present invention, and is not to be construed as limiting the present invention. [Industrial Applicability]

[0054] The present invention has a wide variety of applications, including urban planning, entertainment, education, and research. [Explanation of symbols]

[0055] System according to the first embodiment (10), terrain generation unit (12), 3D city generation unit (13), artificial life generation unit (14), integration unit (15), system according to the second embodiment (20), town 1 (21), town 2 (22), connection unit (23), system according to the third embodiment (30), projection unit (31), system according to the fourth embodiment (40), recording unit (41), artificial life evolution unit (42), system according to the fifth embodiment (50), organism recognition unit (51), virtual reality ecosystem estimation unit (52), system according to the sixth embodiment (60), external data acquisition unit (61), model update unit (62), system according to the seventh embodiment (70), external transmission recording unit (71), common distribution unit (72)

Claims

1. 1. A system for generating a virtual town populated by artificial life, the system comprising: a terrain generation unit that generates a terrain model of the virtual town based on terrain data that defines the terrain of the town; a 3D city generation unit that generates a 3D city model based on 3D city data including structural information and attribute information of structures such as buildings and urban facilities; an artificial life generation unit that generates an artificial life model that has genetic elements like a living organism, behaves autonomously, reproduces, and / or evolves; An integration unit that places the 3D city model and artificial life model on the town's terrain and calculates their interactions.

2. 10. The system of claim 1, further comprising: The system generates multiple virtual towns with different characteristics and further includes a connection section that promotes interaction between these towns by allowing artificial life models to move back and forth between them.

3. 10. The system of claim 1, further comprising: A projection unit that projects a virtual town onto three-dimensional objects that exist in real space.

4. 4. The system of any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising: a recording unit that records the shape and layout of the 3D city model and the interaction between the artificial life model and the 3D city model in chronological order; The Artificial Life Evolution Department detects changes over time based on recorded data and selectively evolves or eliminates artificial life models depending on the responses and changes.

5. 4. The system of claim 3, further comprising: A biological recognition unit uses optical or ultrasonic sensors to detect the behavior of realistic living creatures that coexist in a three-dimensional terrain model that exists in real space, and recognizes their positions using object detection technology. The Virtual Reality Ecosystem Simulation Unit estimates changes in ecosystems based on the interactions between recognized organisms and artificial life models.

6. 10. The system of claim 1, further comprising: an external data acquisition unit that acquires town data including population distribution and economic information of the town from an external server that publishes the data; The model update section updates the 3D city model and artificial life model based on the publicly available town data.

7. 10. The system of claim 1, further comprising: an external transmission and recording unit that sequentially transmits and records data that constitutes a virtual town inhabited by artificial life to a server; A common distribution unit distributes common virtual town data to multiple user terminals.

8. A virtual town inhabited by artificial life created using the system of any one of claims 1 to 8.

9. A method for generating a virtual town inhabited by artificial life using the system of any one of claims 1 to 8.

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