Information processing device, system, program, and method

Abstract

To provide a mechanism that can provide various sounds to users according to a situation in cooperation with other information processing devices.SOLUTION: An information processing apparatus includes sound output means for outputting a sound when an output condition is satisfied, and receiving means for receiving designated information from another information processing apparatus executing a game application. The sound output means outputs a first sound as a sound when timing at which the output condition is satisfied is not within a time range based on the designated information, and outputs a second sound different from the first sound as a sound when the timing at which the output condition is satisfied is within the time range based on the designated information.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an information processing device configured to output sound, a system including the information processing device, a program directed to the information processing device, and a method executed by the information processing device. [Background technology]

[0002] There have been devices (such as alarm clocks) that output a sound when a set time arrives. In such devices, if some special condition is met, a process may be executed to output a different message than usual.

[0003] For example, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2017-106872 (Patent Document 1) discloses a process for outputting a predetermined message on a predetermined day, such as a character's birthday or Christmas, that is not output on other days. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2017-106872 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] In the above-mentioned conventional devices, information such as the content of special conditions and the processes to be executed is stored in the device itself, and no cooperation with other devices is envisaged.

[0006] The present disclosure is directed to a mechanism that can provide a user with various sounds depending on the situation in cooperation with other information processing devices. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] An information processing device according to one embodiment includes sound output means for outputting a sound when an output condition is satisfied, and receiving means for receiving designation information from another information processing device running a game application. The designation information includes at least one of time information based on a predetermined period of a period event held within the game application during the predetermined period, and trigger information based on a game event occurring within the game application. The sound output means outputs a first sound as a sound when the timing at which the output condition is satisfied is not within a time range based on the designation information, and outputs a second sound different from the first sound as a sound when the timing at which the output condition is satisfied is within the time range based on the designation information.

[0008] According to this configuration, by setting a time range based on the specification information received from the other information processing device, the first sound and the second sound can be selectively output according to the timing when the output condition is satisfied. By generating the specification information according to the progress of an application executed by the other information processing device, it is possible to output a sound according to the progress of the application.

[0009] The sound output means may be configured to be able to output a plurality of types of sounds in addition to the first sound. In this case, the second sound may be selected from the plurality of types of sounds. With this configuration, the second sound to be output can be changed depending on the situation.

[0010] The designation information may include information designating a type of second sound. In this case, the sound output means may output the type of second sound designated by the designation information when the timing at which the output condition is satisfied is within a time range based on the designation information. With this configuration, the type of second sound to be output can be arbitrarily selected according to the progress of an application executed by the other information processing device.

[0011] The designation information may include information designating priority. In this case, the sound output means may be configured to output a second sound of a type designated by one of the plurality of designation information items according to the priority if the timing at which the output condition is satisfied is included in any of the time ranges based on the plurality of designation information items. With this configuration, even if there is overlap between the time ranges based on the plurality of designation information items, the second sound to be output can be uniquely determined.

[0012] The sound output means may be configured to output the first sound instead of the second sound if the second sound has been output before, even if the timing at which the output condition is satisfied is within the time range based on the designation information. With this configuration, for example, in the case of a second sound for which multiple output is not desirable, the second sound can be output only once.

[0013] The designation information may include information specifying the number of times to output the second sound. In this case, the sound output means may output the first sound instead of the second sound, even if the timing at which the output condition is satisfied is within the time range based on the designation information, as long as the number of times the second sound has been output reaches the number specified by the designation information. With this configuration, the output of the second sound can be limited to a pre-designated number of times.

[0014] The output condition may include the arrival of a preset time. With this configuration, the information processing device can function as an alarm clock.

[0015] The output condition may include receipt of a predetermined user operation. With this configuration, for example, sound can be output in response to a user operating the information processing device.

[0016] The time range based on the designation information may start from a time set within 24 hours before the start of the period in which the period event is held. With this configuration, for example, it is possible to set the second sound to be output on the same day as the start date of the period event.

[0017] The information processing device may further include an acquisition unit that acquires data for outputting the second sound from another information processing device. With this configuration, the variety of second sounds that can be output from the information processing device can be increased.

[0018] The time information may include either a time range including a period before the start of the period in which the period event is held, or a time before the start of the period in which the period event is held. With this configuration, it is possible to notify in advance that the period event will be held using the second sound.

[0019] In the limited-time event, if the user defeats an enemy character through a user operation, the user may be given a predetermined reward. This configuration can motivate the user to participate in the limited-time event.

[0020] The second sound may include a notification that a periodic event will be held. This makes it possible to encourage users to participate in the periodic event.

[0021] The time range based on the designation information may be set to coincide with the period during which the period event is held. With this configuration, the second sound is output during the period during which the period event is held, thereby encouraging participation in the period event.

[0022] The start of the time range based on the designation information may be set to coincide with the start of the period in which the period event is held. With this configuration, the second sound is output after the period event is held, so that the user can be notified of the holding of the period event in real time.

[0023] The time information may include a time indicating the start of a period. In this case, the time range based on the specification information may start from the time included in the time information. With this configuration, the start of the time range can be set arbitrarily by specifying the time included in the time information.

[0024] The trigger information may include a time after the occurrence of a game event. In this case, the time range based on the designation information may start from the time included in the trigger information. With this configuration, the start of the time range can be set arbitrarily.

[0025] The information processing device may further include a measuring means for measuring the user's sleep state. In this case, the other information processing device may progress the game application using information indicating the user's sleep state measured by the measuring means. With this configuration, the game application can be progressed according to the user's sleep state, and designation information can also be generated according to the progress result.

[0026] At least one of the first sound and the second sound may include an alarm sound. With this configuration, it is possible to urge the user to wake up or notify the user of an upcoming event.

[0027] A system according to another embodiment includes a first information processing device and a second information processing device that executes a game application. The first information processing device includes sound output means that outputs a sound when an output condition is satisfied, and receiving means that receives designation information from the second information processing device. The designation information includes at least one of time information based on a predetermined period of a period event held within the game application during the predetermined period, and trigger information based on a game event that occurs within the game application. The sound output means outputs a first sound as a sound when the timing at which the output condition is satisfied is not within a time range based on the designation information, and outputs a second sound different from the first sound as a sound when the timing at which the output condition is satisfied is within the time range based on the designation information.

[0028] According to yet another embodiment, there is provided a program executed by a computer configured to output a sound. The designation information includes at least one of time information based on a predetermined period of a period event held in a game application during the predetermined period and trigger information based on a game event occurring within the game application. The program includes the steps of: receiving the designation information from another information processing device executing the game application; determining whether an output condition has been satisfied; determining, when the output condition has been satisfied, whether the timing at which the output condition was satisfied is within a time range based on the designation information; outputting a first sound as a sound when the timing at which the output condition was satisfied is not within the time range based on the designation information; and outputting a second sound different from the first sound as a sound when the timing at which the output condition was satisfied is within the time range based on the designation information. and execute the following.

[0029] According to yet another embodiment, there is provided a method executed by an information processing device configured to output a sound. The designation information includes at least one of time information based on a predetermined period of a period event held in a game application during the predetermined period and trigger information based on a game event occurring within the game application. The method includes the steps of receiving the designation information from another information processing device running the game application, determining whether an output condition is satisfied, and, if the output condition is satisfied, determining whether the timing at which the output condition is satisfied is within a time range based on the designation information, outputting a first sound as a sound when the timing at which the output condition is satisfied is not within the time range based on the designation information, and outputting a second sound different from the first sound as a sound when the timing at which the output condition is satisfied is within the time range based on the designation information. [Effects of the Invention]

[0030] According to the present disclosure, various sounds can be provided to the user depending on the situation in cooperation with other information processing devices. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0031] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic diagram showing an overall configuration of a system according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing a hardware configuration of an output device in the system according to the present embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing a hardware configuration of a mobile terminal in the system according to the present embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a typical example of processing executed in the system according to the present embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a data structure of designation information according to the present embodiment. [Figure 6] 10 is a flowchart showing a typical processing procedure executed by the output device according to the present embodiment. [Figure 7]5A to 5C are diagrams for illustrating processing relating to sound output by the output device according to the present embodiment. [Figure 8] 10A and 10B are diagrams for illustrating a process using priority information of the output device according to the present embodiment. [Figure 9] 10A and 10B are diagrams for illustrating processing using output count management information of the output device according to the present embodiment. [Figure 10] 10A to 10C are diagrams for explaining a process of changing over time a sound output by an output device according to the present embodiment. [Figure 11] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating an example of setting a special output period in the system according to the present embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating another example of setting the special output period in the system according to the present embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a functional configuration of an output device according to the present embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0032] The present embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the drawings, in which the same or corresponding parts are designated by the same reference numerals and description thereof will not be repeated.

[0033] In this specification, the term "time" includes not only time in the strict sense but also date and time (date and time). For example, "time" can be used in two ways: when specifying only the time without specifying the date (e.g., 9:00), and when specifying both the date and time (e.g., July 1st, 9:00, Or, July 1, 2021, 9:00. The term "time" does not limit the accuracy (hours, minutes, seconds, etc.).

[0034] [A. Overall configuration example] First, an example of the overall configuration of a system 1 according to the present embodiment will be described. Fig. 1 is a schematic diagram showing the overall configuration of a system 1 according to the present embodiment.

[0035] 1, a system 1 includes a data output device 100 and a mobile terminal 200. Data can be exchanged between the data output device 100 and the mobile terminal 200 by wireless communication or wired communication. When connecting the data output device 100 and the mobile terminal 200 by wireless communication, any wireless method such as Bluetooth (registered trademark), ZigBee (registered trademark), wireless LAN (IEEE802.11), or infrared communication can be adopted.

[0036] The output device 100 is an information processing device (first information processing device) configured to output sound. The output device 100 may be configured as a kind of alarm clock.

[0037] Mobile terminal 200 is an information processing device (second information processing device) configured to execute one or more game applications 250. Mobile terminal 200 is configured as, for example, a smartphone, a tablet, a personal computer, a game device, or the like.

[0038] System 1 may further include a server device 300 that can communicate with mobile terminal 200 via network 2 (e.g., the Internet). Server device 300 may handle all or part of the processing required to execute game application 250 on behalf of mobile terminal 200. Server device 300 may be a specific computer on the network, or may be any computing resource present on the cloud.

[0039] The mobile terminal 200 generates designation information 260 in accordance with the execution or progress of the game application 250, and transmits the generated designation information 260 to the output device 100. The output device 100 outputs sound and the like in accordance with the received designation information 260. Details of the operation of the output device 100 in accordance with the designation information 260 will be described later.

[0040] [B. Hardware configuration example] Next, an example of a hardware configuration of devices constituting system 1 according to the present embodiment will be described.

[0041] (b1: Output device 100) 2 is a schematic diagram showing a hardware configuration of output device 100 of system 1 according to the present embodiment. Referring to FIG. 2, output device 100 is an example of a computer, and includes, as main components, a processor 102, a memory 104, a storage 106, an RTC (Real Time Clock) 110, an acceleration sensor 112, a display unit 114, and a vibration unit 115. 6, a sound output unit 118, a wireless communication unit 120, and an operation unit 122. These components are electrically connected via a bus 124.

[0042] The processor 102 is a processing entity (processing means) for executing the processes provided by the output device 100. The processor 102 reads a system program 108 stored in the storage 106, expands it in the memory 104, and realizes the processes described below. The system program 108 includes instruction codes for realizing the processes described below.

[0043] The memory 104 is a storage device accessible by the processor 102, and may include, for example, a DRA M (Dynamic Random Access Memory) and SRAM (Static Random Access Memory) The storage 106 is implemented using a volatile storage device such as a flash memory.

[0044] In addition to the system program 108, the storage 106 may store one or more pieces of designation information 260 transmitted by the mobile terminal 200, and sound data 130.

[0045] The RTC 110 manages the time and provides information indicating the current time to the processor 102 and the like.

[0046] The acceleration sensor 112 is a sensor that detects the movement occurring in the output device 100, and is used to measure the sleeping state of the user as described later.

[0047] The display unit 114 is a component that provides visual information to the user, and is configured using, for example, an LED (Light Emitting Diode) or a liquid crystal display.

[0048] The vibration unit 116 applies vibration to the user. The sound output unit 118 is a vibration unit 116 that provides any auditory information to the user, and is configured using, for example, a speaker or a buzzer.

[0049] The wireless communication unit 120 exchanges data with the mobile terminal 200 via wireless signals. The operation unit 122 is the vibration unit 116 that accepts operations from the user, and is configured with devices such as push buttons, operation levers, a touch panel, and a mouse.

[0050] (b2: mobile terminal 200) Fig. 3 is a schematic diagram showing a hardware configuration of mobile terminal 200 of system 1 according to the present embodiment. Referring to Fig. 3, mobile terminal 200 is an example of a computer, and includes, as main components, a processor 202, a memory 204, a storage 206, an RTC 210, a display 214, an operation unit 216, a sound output unit 218, and a wireless communication unit 220. These components are electrically connected via a bus 212.

[0051] Processor 202 is a processing entity (processing means) for executing the processes provided by mobile terminal 200. Processor 202 reads system program 208 and game application 250 stored in storage 206, expands them in memory 204, and realizes the processes described below. System program 208 includes instruction codes for realizing the processes described below.

[0052] The memory 204 is a storage device accessible by the processor 202, and is implemented using a volatile storage device such as a DRAM or an SRAM. The storage 206 is implemented using a non-volatile storage device such as a flash memory or a hard disk.

[0053] The RTC 210 manages the time and provides information indicating the current time to the processor 202 and the like.

[0054] The display 214 displays images generated as a result of the information processing performed by the processor 202 .

[0055] The operation unit 216 receives operations from the user of the mobile terminal 200. The operation unit 216 is configured using, for example, a touch panel or a mouse.

[0056] The wireless communication unit 220 exchanges data with the data output device 100 via wireless signals. (b3:Other) The processing performed in the output device 100 and / or the mobile terminal 200 may be realized by a processor executing a program, or part or all of the processing may be realized by a hardwired circuit such as an ASIC (application specific integrated circuit) or an FPGA (field programmable gate array).

[0057] In this specification, the term "processor" refers to a CPU (Central Processing Unit). processors such as MPU (Micro Processing Unit) and GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) In addition to its usual meaning as a processing circuit that executes processing according to instruction codes written in a program, the term "processor" also encompasses hardwired circuits such as ASICs and FPGAs. Hardwired circuits such as ASICs and FPGAs have pre-configured circuits corresponding to the processing to be executed. Furthermore, the term "processor" in this specification also encompasses circuits that integrate multiple functions, such as SoCs (System on Chips).

[0058] [C. Typical processing example] First, a typical example of processing executed in system 1 according to the present embodiment will be described.

[0059] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a typical example of processing executed in system 1 according to the present embodiment.

[0060] 4(A) shows an example of normal operation of the output device 100. The output device 100 outputs a sound when an output condition 136 is satisfied. Hereinafter, the sound that is output when the output condition 136 is satisfied will also be referred to as a "normal sound 132" for convenience.

[0061] When the output device 100 is configured as an alarm clock, the arrival of a start time, which is the time when sound output starts, can be used as the output condition 136. In this case, when a preset start time arrives, the output condition 136 is established, that is, the output condition 136 is satisfied. Note that the output condition 136 is not limited to the start time when sound output starts, and any condition can be used.

[0062] 4(B) shows an example of operation when the output device 100 receives designation information 260 including time information. The designation information 260 shown in FIG. 4(B) is associated with a period event 252 that is held for a predetermined period in a game application 250 executed on the mobile terminal 200.

[0063] As used herein, "time information" refers to information that directly or indirectly specifies a period of time for the period event 252. For example, the time information may be generated based on a predetermined period of time during which the period event 252 is held.

[0064] The period event 252 encompasses any process that is different from the normal process executed in the game application 250. For example, the period event 252 may allow the user to acquire a new character or item or to acquire a reward through a user operation. Alternatively, the period event 252 may allow the user to fight a new enemy that is different from the normal process or to enter a new dungeon. Typically, the period event 252 may provide a predetermined reward to the user when the user defeats an enemy character through a user operation.

[0065] The designation information 260 is the sound that the output device 100 outputs when the output condition 136 is satisfied. The command specifies additional conditions for outputting a sound different from the normal sound 132. Hereinafter, the sound different from the normal sound 132 will also be referred to as a "special sound 134" for convenience.

[0066] The special sound 134 may include, for example, content that notifies the occurrence of the period event 252. Alternatively, at least one of the normal sound 132 and the special sound 134 may be any alarm sound (e.g., a beeping sound). Using the alarm sound can effectively function as an alarm clock. Furthermore, the special sound 134 may include any content related to the period event 252.

[0067] The specification information 260 is information transmitted from the mobile terminal 200 to the output device 100. Additional conditions specified by the specification information 260 may include a time range. Hereinafter, the period set by the output device 100 upon receiving the specification information 260 is also referred to as the "special output period 138." Therefore, the special output period 138 is an example of a time range based on the specification information 260. Note that the special output period 138 may be a range in which both a start time and an end time are specified, or a range in which only one of a start time and an end time is specified. By specifying only a start time, the special output period 138 continues from the specified start time onwards. By specifying only an end time, the special output period 138 continues until the specified end time.

[0068] In a case where the special output period 138 is specified, when the output condition 136 is satisfied, the output device 100 further determines whether the timing at which the output condition 136 is satisfied is included in the special output period 138. As shown in FIG. 4(B), if the timing at which the output condition 136 is satisfied is included in the special output period 138, the output device 100 outputs the special sound 134 instead of the normal sound 132.

[0069] On the other hand, if the timing when the output condition 136 is satisfied is not included in the special output period 138, the output device 100 outputs the normal sound 132, as in FIG. 4(A).

[0070] The special sound 134 to be output when the timing at which the output condition 136 is satisfied is included in the special output period 138 may be specified by specification information 260 that specifies the special output period 138. Alternatively, the special sound 134 to be output may be selected according to predetermined rules.

[0071] 4(C) shows an example of operation when the output device 100 receives designation information 260 including trigger information. The designation information 260 (trigger information) shown in FIG. 4(C) is associated with a game event 254 that has occurred in a game application 250 executed on the mobile terminal 200. In this way, the trigger information may be generated based on the game event 254 that has occurred in the game application 250.

[0072] Game events 254 include any results that occur as a result of the progress of game application 250. For example, game events 254 include events such as acquiring a new character or item, receiving a reward, or changing levels through explicit or implicit user operations.

[0073] The output device 100 sets a special output period 138, which is used as a condition for the output device 100 to output the special sound 134 instead of the normal sound 132 when the output condition 136 is satisfied, based on the designation information 260 including the trigger information. However, the designation information 260 including the trigger information is transmitted from the mobile terminal 200 to the output device 100 after the game event 254 occurs.

[0074] The process when the special output period 138 is specified is the same as that shown in FIG. 4(B). As described above, in the system 1 according to this embodiment, the specification information 260 is generated in accordance with the progress of the game application 250 executed on the mobile terminal 200, and transmitted to the output device 100, thereby allowing the sound output by the output device 100 to be changed as desired.

[0075] [D. Example of data structure for designated information 260] Next, an example of the data structure of the specification information 260 will be described.

[0076] FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a data structure of designation information 260 according to the present embodiment. The designation information 260 shown in FIG. 5(A) includes identification information 261, a start time 262, and an end time 263.

[0077] The identification information 261 is any identification information that is assigned to distinguish the designation information 260 from other designation information 260. The value of the identification information 261 may be managed by the game application 250 executed on the mobile terminal 200.

[0078] The start time 262 is the time indicating the start of the special output period 138. The end time 263 is the time indicating the end of the special output period 138. Therefore, the special output period 138 starts at the time specified by the start time 262 and ends at the time specified by the end time 263.

[0079] It is also possible to specify only one of the start time and end time of the special output period 138, in which case a valid value is not set for either the start time 262 or the end time 263.

[0080] 5(B) shows an example in which the duration of the special output period 138 is specified instead of the end time 263 of the special output period 138. More specifically, the specification information 260 shown in FIG. 5(B) includes identification information 261, a start time 262, and a duration 264. The duration 264 indicates the duration of the special output period 138.

[0081] Further information may be added to the designation information 260 shown in FIG. 5(A) or FIG. 5(B).

[0082] The designation information 260 shown in FIG. 5C includes sound designation information 265, priority information 266, and output count management information 267 in addition to identification information 261, start time 262, and end time 263.

[0083] The sound designation information 265 indicates the type of sound to be output as the special sound 134. In other words, the sound designation information 265 is information that designates the type of special sound 134. As will be described later, in a case where multiple sounds can be output as the special sound 134, the sound designation information 265 is information for selecting which sound should be output as the special sound 134.

[0084] The priority information 266 is information that specifies the priority. When multiple pieces of designation information 260 are stored in the output device 100, it is possible that the special output periods 138 specified by the pieces of designation information 260 overlap with each other. In such a case, it is determined which special output period 138 (i.e., the designation information 260) should be given priority based on the priority information 266.

[0085] The output count management information 267 is information that specifies the number of times the special sound 134 is to be output during the special output period 138 specified by the same specification information 260. The output count management information 267 is also used to manage the number of times the special sound 134 has been output. As will be described later, the output count management information 267 is used, for example, when it is desired to output the special sound 134 only once during one special output period 138.

[0086] 5C, it is not necessary to include all of the sound designation information 265, priority information 266, and output count management information 267 in the designation information 260, and any one or more of them may be included in the designation information 260. Examples of how these pieces of information are used will be described later.

[0087] Furthermore, the data structure of the specification information 260 is not limited to those shown in FIGS. 5(A) to 5(C), and any data structure that can realize the functions and processes described in this specification can be adopted.

[0088] [E. Processing Procedure of Output Device 100] 6 is a flowchart showing a typical processing procedure executed by the output device 100 according to the present embodiment. Each step shown in FIG. 6 may be realized by the processor 102 of the output device 100 executing the system program 108.

[0089] 6, the transmitter 100 determines whether or not a sound output time setting has been received from the mobile terminal 200 (step S2). If a sound output time setting has been received from the mobile terminal 200 (YES in step S2), the transmitter 100 sets or updates the start time of the sound output in accordance with the received time setting (step S4). If a sound output time setting has not been received from the mobile terminal 200 (NO in step S2), the processing of step S4 is skipped.

[0090] Next, the output device 100 executes a process of receiving the designation information 260 from the mobile terminal 200 executing the game application 250. More specifically, the output device 100 determines whether or not the designation information 260 has been received from the mobile terminal 200 (step S6). If the designation information 260 has been received from the mobile terminal 200 (YES in step S6), the output device 100 stores the received designation information 260 (step S8). If the designation information 260 has not been received from the mobile terminal 200 (NO in step S6), the process of step S8 is skipped.

[0091] Next, the data transmitter 100 determines whether the output condition is satisfied. More specifically, the data transmitter 100 determines whether the sound output start time has arrived at the current time (step S10). If the sound output start time has not arrived at the current time (NO in step S10), the current process ends, and the processes from step S2 onward are repeated.

[0092] On the other hand, if the start time of the sound output has arrived at the current time (YES in step S10), the data transmitter 100 determines whether the timing at which the output condition (arrival of the start time of the sound output) is satisfied is included in the time range (special output period 138) based on the specification information 260 (steps S12 to S16).

[0093] More specifically, the data transmitter 100 determines whether the designation information 260 is stored (step S12). If the designation information 260 is not stored (NO in step S12), the data transmitter 100 starts outputting the normal sound 132 (step S14).

[0094] If the designation information 260 is stored (YES in step S12), the data transmitter 100 determines whether the current time point is included in the time range (special output period 138) based on the stored designation information 260 (step S16). If the current time point is not included in the special output period 138 designated by the stored designation information 260 (NO in step S16), the data transmitter 100 executes the process of step S14. That is, when the timing at which the output condition is satisfied is not included in the special output period 138, the data transmitter 100 executes the process of outputting the normal sound 132 as the sound.

[0095] If the current time point is included in the special output period 138 specified by the stored specification information 260 (YES in step S16), output of a special sound 134 different from the normal sound 132 is started (step S18). That is, the data output device 100 executes a process of outputting the special sound 134 as a sound when the timing at which the output condition is satisfied is included in the special output period 138.

[0096] After executing step S14 or step S18, the data transmitter 100 determines whether the condition for stopping the sound being output is satisfied (step S20). If the condition for stopping the sound being output is not satisfied (NO in step S20), the sound continues to be output, and the process of step S20 is repeated.

[0097] If the condition for stopping the sound being output is met (YES in step S20), the data transmitter 100 stops the sound output (step S22), and then the processes from step S2 onwards are repeated.

[0098] The sound output time may be set or updated not only by the mobile terminal 200 but also by the user operating the sound output device 100. Alternatively, the sound output time may be set or updated by the sound output device 100 according to a predetermined logic. In these cases, the processes of steps S2 and S4 may be omitted.

[0099] [F. Examples of applied processing] Next, some applied processing examples executed by the system 1 according to the present embodiment will be described.

[0100] (f1: Multiple sound types and sound type specification) The output device 100 may be configured to be able to output a plurality of types of special sounds 134 in addition to the normal sound 132. In this case, the output device 100 outputs a type of special sound 134 selected from a plurality of types of special sounds 134 prepared in advance.

[0101] 7 is a diagram illustrating processing related to sound output by transmitter 100 according to the present embodiment. Referring to FIG. 7, a plurality of sound data 130 is stored in storage 106 of transmitter 100. Sound data 130 is a sound source for outputting sound. The plurality of sound data 130 includes sound data 130-1 for outputting normal sound 132 and sound data 130-2A, 130-2B, 130-2C, ... for outputting special sound 134.

[0102] The sound designation information 265 of the designation information 260 may be used to select the sound data 130 to be used. For example, the sound designation information 265 of the designation information 260A designates the sound data 130-2A, and the sound designation information 265 of the designation information 260B designates the sound data 130-2B. In this way, the output device 100 selects the sound data 130 to be used based on the output condition 136. When the timing at which the above condition is met is included in the time range (special output period 138) based on the specification information 260, the special sound 134 of the type specified by the specification information 260 (sound specification information 265) may be output.

[0103] The game application 250 executed on the mobile terminal 200 generates designation information 260 including sound designation information 265 according to the type of special sound 134 to be output.

[0104] The sound data 130 for outputting the special sound 134 may be provided from the mobile terminal 200 to the output device 100. In other words, the output device 100 may acquire the sound data 130 for outputting the special sound 134 from the mobile terminal 200.

[0105] (f2:Priority) If the data output device 100 sets the special output periods 138 based on multiple pieces of designation information 260, there is a possibility that the special output periods 138 may overlap. In this case, the special sound 134 to be output may be determined according to priority.

[0106] 8 is a diagram illustrating a process using priority information of data output device 100 according to the present embodiment. With reference to FIG. 8, it is assumed that special output periods 138-1 to 138-3 are designated by three pieces of designation information 260-1 to 260-3, respectively.

[0107] In this state, suppose that the output condition 136 is satisfied at a certain timing. As shown in Fig. 8, the timing at which the output condition 136 is satisfied is included in any of the special output periods 138-1 to 138-3. Therefore, it is necessary to determine which special output period 138 the special sound 134 corresponding to should be output.

[0108] 8, the designation information 260-1 to 260-3 include priority information 266-1 to 266-3, respectively. The output device 100 determines the designation information 260 for outputting the special sound 134 according to the priority information 266-1 to 266-3 included in the designation information 260-1 to 260-3. In the example shown in FIG. 8, the priority information 266-3 of the designation information 260-3 is set to "1" indicating the highest priority.

[0109] If the timing at which the output condition 136 is satisfied is included in any of the time ranges (special output periods 138) based on the plurality of pieces of designation information 260, the output device 100 outputs the special sound 134 of the type designated by one piece of designation information 260 according to the priority of the plurality of pieces of designation information 260. In the example of Fig. 8, the output device 100 outputs the sound of the type designated by the designation information 260-3 as the special sound 134 according to the priority information 266-3.

[0110] In this way, by including the priority information 266 in the specification information 260, even if the special output periods 138 specified by each of the specification information 260 overlap with each other, one special sound 134 can be output without competing with each other.

[0111] (f3: simultaneous output) Regardless of the priority as described above, different types of sounds (for example, a melody and an announcement) may be output simultaneously. In this case, the output device 100 may output any announcement while playing a melody.

[0112] (f4: number of outputs) For example, if a relatively long period is specified as the special output period 138, the same special output There may be cases where the output condition 136 is satisfied multiple times during the period 138. In such cases, there may be a need to limit or control the number of times the special sound 134 is output. To address such needs, the specification information 260 may include output count management information 267.

[0113] FIG. 9 is a diagram for explaining a process using the output count management information of the data output device 100 according to the present embodiment.

[0114] 9(A), the designation information 260 includes identification information 261, a start time 262, an end time 263, and output count management information 267. However, a valid value is not set in the output count management information 267. In this case, the data transmitter 100 determines that there is no limit to the number of times the special sound 134 can be output. If the timing at which the output condition 136 is satisfied is included in the special output period 138, the data transmitter 100 outputs the special sound 134 regardless of the number of times it has been output before.

[0115] 9(B) is set to "TRUE," indicating that the number of outputs is valid. In this case, when the transmitter 100 outputs the special sound 134, it updates the value of the stored output count management information 267 of the designation information 260 from "TRUE" to "FALSE." In other words, if the value of the output count management information 267 is "FALSE," it means that the special sound 134 has been output (already output).

[0116] The data transmitter 100 outputs the special sound 134 only when the timing when the output condition 136 is satisfied is included in the special output period 138 and the output count management information 267 of the designation information 260 is set to "TRUE." By using the output count management information 267 as shown in FIG. 9(B), it is possible to realize control such that the special sound 134 is output only once. On the other hand, when the output count management information 267 of the designation information 260 is set to "FALSE," the data transmitter 100 outputs the normal sound 132.

[0117] In this way, the output device 100 may output the normal sound 132 instead of the special sound 134 if the special sound 134 has been output before, even if the timing at which the output condition 136 is satisfied is included in the time range (special output period 138) based on the specification information 260.

[0118] The output count management information 267 of the designation information 260 shown in FIG. 9C is set to "3" as the value indicating the output count. In this case, the data transmitter 100 decrements the value of the stored output count management information 267 of the designation information 260 by one each time the special sound 134 is output. For example, after the data transmitter 100 outputs the special sound 134 once, the value of the output count management information 267 is updated from "3" to "2." When the value of the output count management information 267 finally becomes "0," the data transmitter 100 no longer outputs the special sound 134. By using the output count management information 267 as shown in FIG. 9C, the maximum number of times the special sound 134 can be output can be controlled. On the other hand, when the output count management information 267 of the designation information 260 is set to "0," the data transmitter 100 outputs the normal sound 132.

[0119] In this way, even when the timing at which the output condition 136 is satisfied is within the time range (special output period 138) based on the specification information 260, the output device 100 may output the normal sound 132 instead of the special sound 134 if the number of times the special sound 134 has been output has reached the number of times specified by the specification information 260 (output count management information 267).

[0120] (f5: sound change) The type of sound output by the sound output device 100 may be changed over time.

[0121] 10 is a diagram illustrating a process of temporally changing a sound output by data output device 100 according to the present embodiment. Referring to FIG. 10, data output device 100 stores, as a plurality of sound data 130, sound data 130-1 for outputting normal sound 132 and sound data 130-2 for outputting special sound 134.

[0122] Here, the sound data 130-1 may be a collection of a plurality of sound data 130-11, 130-12, 130-13, etc. Similarly, the sound data 130-2 may be a collection of a plurality of sound data 130-21, 130-22, 130-23, etc.

[0123] For example, when the user performs a snooze operation (a process of stopping sound output for a predetermined time) after playing back sound data 130-11 as the normal sound 132, the data transmitter 100 temporarily stops output of the normal sound 132. After the predetermined time has elapsed, the data transmitter 100 resumes playing back the normal sound 132, but plays back sound data 130-12 instead of sound data 130-11. Furthermore, when resuming after the snooze operation, the data transmitter 100 plays back sound data 130-13 instead of sound data 130-12. In this way, the type of normal sound 132 to be output may be changed over time.

[0124] Similarly, when a snooze operation is performed by a user after the sound output device 100 has played back sound data 130-21 as the special sound 134, the sound output device 100 temporarily stops output of the special sound 134. After a predetermined time has elapsed, the sound output device 100 resumes playing the special sound 134, but plays back sound data 130-22 instead of sound data 130-21. Furthermore, when resuming after the snooze operation, the sound output device 100 plays back sound data 130-23 instead of sound data 130-22. In this way, the type of special sound 134 to be output may be changed over time.

[0125] Although FIG. 10 illustrates an example of processing when a snooze operation is performed, the present invention is not limited to this, and the type or content of the sound to be output may be changed simply with the passage of time.

[0126] (f6: Output conditions) In the above description, the arrival of a set start time has been exemplified as a typical example of the output condition 136. That is, the output condition 136 has been exemplified when the output device 100 is configured as an alarm clock. However, the output condition is not limited to this, and any condition can be set.

[0127] For example, receipt of a user operation by the operation unit 122 of the output device 100 may be used as a trigger (an event that the output condition 136 is satisfied). That is, receipt of a predetermined user operation may be used as the output condition 136. In this case, if the user operates the operation unit 122 of the output device 100 and the timing of the operation is included in the special output period 138, the output device 100 outputs the special sound 134; otherwise, it outputs the normal sound 132.

[0128] Alternatively, one or more of the following may be adopted as the output condition 136: when the game application 250 has not been activated on the mobile terminal 200 for a long period of time; when the remaining capacity of the battery of the output device 100 is low; and when the output device 100 has not been linked with the mobile terminal 200 for a long period of time. By adopting such an output condition 136, This can bring back the user's interest in the output device 100 if the user has not operated the output device 100 for a while.

[0129] (f7: Delete specified information) The specification information 260 stored in the output device 100 may be deleted under any conditions and at any timing.

[0130] For example, if an upper limit is set for the number of pieces of designated information 260 that can be stored in the output device 100, when the number of pieces of designated information 260 received exceeds the upper limit, the piece of designated information 260 with the oldest reception date may be automatically deleted.

[0131] In addition, the stored specification information 260 for which the specified special output period 138 has already passed (special output period 138 for which the time has passed) may be periodically searched for and automatically deleted.

[0132] Furthermore, the output device 100 may delete the stored specification information 260 in accordance with an instruction from the mobile terminal 200.

[0133] [G. Special Output Period Setting Example] Next, an example of setting the special output period 138 will be described.

[0134] Fig. 11 is a diagram for illustrating an example of setting special output period 138 in system 1 according to the present embodiment. Fig. 11 shows an example of designation information 260 including time information.

[0135] 11(A) shows an example in which the period event 252 starts at time t12 and ends at time t13. A special output period 138 may be set for the period event 252, starting at time t11 and ending at time t13. In the example shown in FIG. 11(A), the start time (time t11) of the special output period 138 is set before the start time (time t12) of the period event 252.

[0136] In this case, the time information associated with the period event 252 may include either a time range (time t11 to time t13) including a period before the start of the period in which the period event 252 is held, or a time (time t11) before the start of the period in which the period event 252 is held. In this case, the time range (special output period 138) based on the designation information 260 will start from the time included in the time information.

[0137] If the special sound 134 includes content that notifies the holding of a period event 252, setting the start time of the special output period 138 too far before the start time of the period event 252 may result in too much time between the output of the special sound 134 and the holding of the period event 252. For this reason, the time between the start time of the period event 252 and the start time of the special output period 138 may be set to within 24 hours.

[0138] That is, the time range (special output period 138) based on the specification information 260 may start from a time set within 24 hours before the start of the period in which the period event 252 is held.

[0139] Typically, the time on which the period event 252 is to be held may be set as the start time of the special output period 138. For example, if the period event 252 is to be held from 9:00 on July 1, 2021, the start time of the special output period 138 may be set to midnight on the same day as the event (0:00 on July 1, 2021). By setting the time, it is possible to prevent a user who hears the special sound 134 and thinks that the period event 252 will be held from being disappointed when he or she finds out that the period event 252 will not be held for a long time.

[0140] 11(B) shows an example in which both the period event 252 and the special output period 138 start at time t21 and end at time t22. In the example shown in FIG. 11(B), the start of the time range based on the designation information 260 (special output period 138) coincides with the start of the period in which the period event 252 is held. Furthermore, the end of the time range based on the designation information 260 (special output period 138) coincides with the end of the period in which the period event 252 is held.

[0141] That is, the time range based on the designation information 260 (special output period 138) coincides with the period during which the period event 252 is held. By setting such a special output period 138, the special sound 134 is output when the output condition 136 is satisfied during the period during which the period event 252 is held, so that the user can more strongly associate the output of the special sound 134 with the holding of the period event 252.

[0142] FIG. 11(C) shows an example in which the period event 252 starts at time t31 and ends at time t33. A special output period 138 may be set for the period event 252, starting at time t31 and ending at time t32. Time t32 indicates the time before the end of the period event 252 and at which the period for outputting the special sound 134 ends. In the example shown in FIG. 11(C), the start of the time range (special output period 138) based on the designation information 260 coincides with the start of the period in which the period event 252 is held. However, the end of the time range (special output period 138) based on the designation information 260 is set to a time before the end of the period in which the period event 252 is held.

[0143] By setting such a special output period 138, it is possible to prevent a situation in which a user who hears the special sound 134 accesses the period event 252 a little later and finds out that the event has already ended.

[0144] Figure 12 is a diagram illustrating another example of setting the special output period 138 in the system 1 according to the present embodiment. In the example shown in Figure 12, time t41 after the occurrence of the game event 254 is set as the start time of the special output period 138. The special output period 138 ends at time t42. The length of time from time t41 to time t42 can be set arbitrarily.

[0145] In this case, the trigger information based on the game event 254 includes the time t41 after the occurrence of the game event 254. In this case, the time range (special output period 138) based on the designation information 260 starts from the time included in the trigger information.

[0146] [H. Sleep state measurement function] As described above, when the output device 100 is configured as an alarm clock, it is assumed that the output device 100 is placed near the user when the user goes to bed. Therefore, the output device 100 may have a function of measuring the user's sleep state.

[0147] While any hardware may be used to measure the user's sleep state, the output device 100 measures the user's sleep state using the acceleration sensor 112. More specifically, the output device 100 is placed on bedding (such as a mattress) on which the user sleeps so that movements occurring during sleep of the user can be detected. The output device 100 measures the user's sleep state by detecting the movements of the user during sleep using the acceleration sensor 112.

[0148] The output device 100 may transmit information indicating the measured sleeping state of the user (for example, a change in the sleeping state over time) to the mobile terminal 200. The mobile terminal 200 may progress the game application 250 using the information indicating the sleeping state of the user from the output device 100.

[0149] For example, if it is determined that the user has had sufficient sleep, the user may be presented with an effect suggesting that they have had a good night's sleep, and if it is determined that the user has not had enough sleep, the user may be presented with an effect suggesting that they have not had enough sleep.

[0150] The progress of game application 250 using information indicating the user's sleeping state may be in any manner.

[0151] Furthermore, the invention is not limited to a configuration in which the acceleration sensor 112 is used to measure the sleep state of the user, and any principle and hardware for measuring the sleep state of the user may be adopted.

[0152] [I. Functional configuration example] Next, a configuration example of output device 100 according to the present embodiment will be described.

[0153] 13 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a functional configuration of transmitter 100 according to the present embodiment. Referring to Fig. 13, transmitter 100 includes, as main functional components, a sound output control unit 150, a sleep state measuring unit 158, a receiving unit 160, and a transmitting unit 162. These functional components are realized by processor 102 of transmitter 100 executing system program 108.

[0154] The sound output control unit 150 controls sound output from the sound output unit 118. The sound output control unit 150 outputs sound when the output condition 136 is satisfied. More specifically, the sound output control unit 150 includes an output condition determination unit 152, a special output period determination unit 154, and a sound selection unit 156.

[0155] The output condition determination unit 152 determines whether or not the output condition 136 is satisfied. If it is determined that the output condition 136 is satisfied, the output condition determination unit 152 notifies the special output period determination unit 154 and the sound selection unit 156.

[0156] The special output period determination unit 154 determines whether the timing when the output condition 136 is satisfied is included in the time range (special output period 138) based on the specification information 260. The special output period determination unit 154 notifies the sound selection unit 156 of the determination result.

[0157] In response to notifications from the output condition determination unit 152 and the special output period determination unit 154, the sound selection unit 156 selects sound data 130 to be output, and outputs the selected sound data 130 to the sound output unit 118. More specifically, when the timing at which the output condition 136 is satisfied is not included in the special output period 138, the sound selection unit 156 outputs sound data 130 corresponding to the normal sound 132 as the sound, and when the timing is included in the special output period 138, the sound selection unit 156 selects sound data 130 corresponding to the special sound 134 as the sound.

[0158] The sleep state measurement unit 158 ​​measures the sleep state of the user present within the measurement range based on the signal from the acceleration sensor 112.

[0159] The receiving unit 160 receives the designation information 260 from the mobile terminal 200 and stores it in the storage 106. The receiving unit 160 also acquires sound data 130 for outputting special sound 134. Typically, the receiving unit 160 receives sound data 130 from the mobile terminal 200 and stores it in storage 106.

[0160] The transmitting unit 162 transmits information indicating the sleep state measured by the sleep state measuring unit 158 ​​to the mobile terminal 200.

[0161] The functions of the receiving unit 160 and the transmitting unit 162 are realized by using the wireless communication unit 120 . [J. Other Embodiments] Although the configuration example for outputting sound has been described, light or vibration may be output in addition to or instead of sound. In this case, as with sound, the light or vibration may be output in a special form different from the normal form based on the period event 252 and / or the game event 254.

[0162] The embodiments disclosed herein should be considered to be illustrative in all respects and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is defined by the claims, not by the above description, and is intended to include all modifications within the meaning and scope of the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0163] 1 System, 2 Network, 100 Output device, 102, 202 Processor, 104, 204 Memory, 106, 206 Storage, 108, 208 System program, 112 Acceleration sensor, 114 Display unit, 116 Vibration unit, 118, 218 Sound output unit, 120, 220 Wireless communication unit, 122, 216 Operation unit, 124, 212 Bus, 130 sound data, 132 normal sound, 134 special sound, 136 output condition, 138 special output period, 150 sound output control unit, 152 output condition determination unit, 154 special output period determination unit, 156 sound selection unit, 158 sleep state measurement unit, 160 receiving unit, 162 transmitting unit, 200 mobile terminal, 214 display, 250 game application, 252 period event, 254 game event, 260, 260A, 260B designation information, 261 identification information, 262 start time, 263 end time, 264 duration, 265 sound designation information, 266 priority information, 267 output count management information, 300 server device.

Claims

1. An information processing device, a sound output means for outputting a sound when a preset time arrives; receiving means for receiving event information indicating an event period during which an event is held in a game application executed on another information processing device; The information processing device includes: outputting a first sound when the timing at which the sound is output is not included in the event period; When the timing at which the sound is output is included in the event period, the information processing device outputs a second sound instead of the first sound.

2. The information processing device according to claim 1 , wherein the information processing device outputs the second sound selected from a plurality of types of sounds when the timing at which the sound is to be output is included in the event period.

3. The information processing device according to claim 2, wherein the information processing device outputs the second sound determined by information specifying the type of the second sound included in the event information when the timing at which the sound is output is included in the event period.

4. The information processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein when the timing at which the sound is output is included in any of a plurality of event periods, the information processing device outputs the second sound of a type corresponding to one of the plurality of event periods in accordance with information specifying a priority included in the event information.

5. The information processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein if the second sound has been output in the past, the information processing device outputs the first sound instead of the second sound, even when the timing at which the sound is output is included in the event period.

6. The information processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein even when the timing at which the sound is output is included in the event period, if the number of times the second sound has been output reaches the number of times the second sound is to be output that is included in the event information, the information processing device outputs the first sound instead of the second sound.

7. 7. The information processing device according to claim 1, wherein the preset time is changed by a predetermined user operation.

8. 8. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising an acquisition unit that acquires data for outputting the second sound from the other information processing apparatus.

9. 9. The information processing device according to claim 1, wherein, in the event, when the user defeats an enemy character through a user operation, the user is given a predetermined reward.

10. 10. The information processing device according to claim 1, wherein the second sound includes content notifying the holding of the event.

11. The information processing device according to claim 1, wherein the event information includes a time indicating the start of the event period.

12. The information processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the information processing device starts determining whether the timing at which the sound is output is included in the event period from a time after the occurrence of a game event included in the event information.

13. further comprising a measuring means for measuring a sleep state of the user; The information processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the other information processing device progresses the game application using information indicating the user's sleeping state measured by the measuring means.

14. The information processing device according to claim 1 , wherein at least one of the first sound and the second sound includes an alarm sound.

15. 1. A system comprising: a first information processing device; a second information processing device that executes a game application; The first information processing device a sound output means for outputting a sound when a preset time arrives; receiving means for receiving event information indicating an event period during which an event is held in a game application executed on another information processing device; The first information processing device outputting a first sound when the timing at which the sound is output is not included in the event period; The system outputs a second sound in place of the first sound when the sound is output but is included in the event period.

16. 1. A program executed on a computer configured to output sound, the program causing the computer to: receiving event information indicating an event period during which an event will be held in a game application executed on the other information processing device; outputting a sound upon arrival of a preset time; outputting a first sound when the timing at which the sound is output is not included in the event period; and outputting a second sound in place of the first sound when the timing at which the sound is output is included in the event period.

17. 1. A method performed on an information processing device configured to output sound, comprising: receiving event information indicating an event period during which an event will be held in a game application executed on the other information processing device; outputting a sound upon arrival of a preset time; outputting a first sound when the timing at which the sound is output is not included in the event period; and outputting a second sound in place of the first sound when the timing at which the sound is output is included in the event period.

Images