Space information processing apparatus and control program for information processing apparatus

Abstract

To enable a user to efficiently secure an active area in a virtual space.SOLUTION: A spatial information processing apparatus (for example, a user management server 10) as one aspect of the present invention includes a restriction unit (for example, a setting unit 720) configured to set a restricted area where a use restriction is imposed on a first user in a virtual space corresponding to a real space, and a cancellation unit (for example, the setting unit 720) configured to cancel the use restriction imposed on a first part in the restricted area defined so as to include a corresponding position in the virtual space corresponding to a specific position in the real space when the first user performs an operation of applying position information indicating the specific position.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 7

Description

[Technical Field]

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

[0002] There are known mechanisms for highlighting previously traveled roads on a map. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a destination display system that highlights previously traveled roads in the vicinity of a destination on a map displayed on a mobile terminal based on the movement history of the mobile terminal, which has a map display function. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2013-072670 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In a service that activates some effect for a user in a virtual space created to correspond to real space, the size of the area of ​​activity in which the user can be active in the virtual space has a significant impact on the interest of the service. If this area of ​​activity is not limited, it may be too large, while if it is limited to previously traveled roads, as disclosed in Patent Document 1, it may be too small.

[0005] The problem to be solved by the present invention is to allow a user to efficiently secure an area for activity in a virtual space. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In order to solve the above problem, the present invention removes the usage restrictions imposed on a user in a restricted area of ​​a virtual space by applying position information in accordance with the user's actions.

[0007] A spatial information processing device according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises a restriction means for setting a restricted area in which usage restrictions are imposed on a first user in a virtual space corresponding to a real space, and a release means for releasing the usage restrictions imposed on a first portion of the restricted area, which is defined to include a corresponding position in the virtual space that corresponds to a specific position when the first user performs an action to apply position information indicating the specific position in the real space. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the present invention, the user's activity area in the virtual space can be efficiently secured by applying position information according to the user's actions. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] 1 is an explanatory diagram of an outline of the service (embodiment); [Figure 2] 1 is an explanatory diagram of the features of the service (embodiment); [Figure 3] 1 is an explanatory diagram of the features of the service (embodiment); [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a network configuration of a system (embodiment); [Figure 5] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the electrical configuration of a server device (embodiment); [Figure 6] 1 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the electrical configuration of a user device (embodiment); [Figure 7] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a functional configuration of a user management server according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a database configuration (Example). [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram illustrating a procedure for applying performance information (embodiment); [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram illustrating a procedure for performing a contraction effect (embodiment). [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram illustrating a procedure for diverting performance information (embodiment); DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] [1. Embodiment] [1-1. Overview] This embodiment relates to a service that activates some effect for a user in a virtual space that is formed to correspond to real space. In this embodiment, in order to allow a user to efficiently secure an activity area in the virtual space, location information is applied according to the user's movements to remove usage restrictions imposed on the user in a restricted area of ​​the virtual space.

[0011] "Virtual space" refers to a virtual space conceptually formed on an information network. Virtual space encompasses two-dimensional space and three-dimensional space. An example of two-dimensional space is a two-dimensional map space. Virtual space is formed to correspond to real space. For example, virtual space is formed to correspond geographically to real space.

[0012] An "activity area" is an area in virtual space that is not subject to usage restrictions for a specific user. A user's activity area can be secured based on the location history of that user or other users in real space. When usage restrictions are imposed on a certain area, the part of that area where the usage restrictions are lifted is sometimes called the "unrestricted area." When usage restrictions are imposed on a certain area, the part of that area where the usage restrictions are temporarily lifted is sometimes called the "temporary area." An "available area" is an area in virtual space that is available to a specific user, and is a concept that encompasses activity areas.

[0013] An "active area" can be specified by its shape, reference position, and initial size. For example, the reference position of a circular active area is its center, and the initial size of the active area is its radius. The active area can be shrunk based on a shrinkage condition. If the shrinkage condition includes a start time and an end time, the size of the active area starts shrinking from the start size at the start time and becomes the end size at the end time. The end size can be a predetermined size other than 0, or it can be 0. The predetermined size can be a fixed value or a variable value. The variable value can be set for each user or for each active area. The current size of the active area can be derived by calculation using the information about the active area and the shrinkage condition.

[0014] "Location information" is information indicating a specific location. Information indicating a specific location includes at least a history of acquiring location data, content associated with the location data, and log data associated with a place where the location can be specified. The history of acquiring location data is a collection of location data continuously acquired by a navigation device. The navigation device may be a device carried by a user or a device installed on a mobile object (e.g., a car or a bicycle). The content associated with location data includes at least image data to which a geotagged tag is attached and uploaded data to which location data is attached. Image data is, for example, still image data or video image data. Uploaded data is, for example, posted data in a social networking service (SNS) or article data in a blog (blog, weblog). A place where the location can be specified is a store, equipment, or facility that exists in real space. Log data associated with a place where the location can be specified is a product purchase history or service usage history at the place where the location can be specified. Service usage history is, for example, a usage history of accommodation facilities, a usage history of amusement facilities, or a usage history of transportation.

[0015] "Location history" refers to the fact that a person has actually been present at a specific location from the past to the present. Location history can be confirmed based on the location data acquisition history or content associated with the location data. Location history can also be confirmed based on log data associated with a location-identifiable place.

[0016] A "restricted area" refers to an area in a virtual space where usage restrictions are imposed on a specific user. The restricted area may be set to the entire virtual space or only a part of the virtual space. Usage restrictions are, for example, treatment that is disadvantageous to the user. Treatment that is disadvantageous to the user is, for example, a restriction that prohibits entry of display elements associated with the user, or a restriction that prevents a predetermined effect from being activated.

[0017] A "display element" is image data. The image data may be, for example, an icon of a specific character. A character may be, for example, a copy, drawing, or imitation of a person or object that actually exists in real space, or a depiction of a fictional person or object that does not actually exist in real space. A character may be, for example, a person, an animal, an anthropomorphized machine, a monster, etc. An icon associated with a specific user in a virtual space is sometimes called an "avatar."

[0018] The "first portion" defined to include the corresponding position refers to the surrounding area of ​​the corresponding position. The surrounding area of ​​the corresponding position is an area of ​​a predetermined shape based on the corresponding position and includes the corresponding position. The surrounding area of ​​the corresponding position is, for example, a circular area centered on the corresponding position. The size of the circular area can be set arbitrarily.

[0019] This embodiment includes at least the following aspects.

[0020] [A] A spatial information processing device comprising: a restriction means for setting a restricted area in which usage restrictions are imposed on a first user in a virtual space corresponding to a real space; and a release means for releasing the usage restrictions imposed on a first portion of the restricted area, which is defined to include a corresponding position in the virtual space that corresponds to a specific position when the first user performs an action to apply position information indicating the specific position in the real space.

[0021] [B] A control program that causes a computer of an information processing device to implement a restriction function that sets a restricted area in which a usage restriction is imposed on a first user in a virtual space corresponding to a real space, and a release function that releases the usage restriction imposed on a first portion of the restricted area that is defined to include a corresponding position in the virtual space that corresponds to a specific position in the real space when the first user performs an action to apply position information indicating the specific position in the real space. Note that the control program may be non-temporarily recorded on a recording medium.

[0022] [C] A control method for an information processing device, including a restriction step of setting a restricted area in which usage restrictions are imposed on a first user in a virtual space corresponding to real space, and a release step of releasing the usage restrictions imposed on a first portion of the restricted area, which is defined to include a corresponding position in the virtual space that corresponds to a specific position when the first user performs an operation to apply position information indicating the specific position in the real space.

[0023] The "spatial information processing device" in [A] above is preferably configured as a server-side device that provides a predetermined service to a client-side device via a communication network in a client-server information processing system. The client-side device may be a device that can be carried by a user or a device that can be installed in a mobile body. The client-side device functions as a display device. Note that the spatial information processing device according to the embodiment may be a device that operates independently. In this case, the display of the spatial information processing device functions as the display device.

[0024] The following technical limitations may be added to the "spatial information processing device" in [A] above. Similar technical limitations may also be added to the "control program" in [B] above and the "control method" in [C] above.

[0025] (1) The device further includes a first receiving means for receiving information on the first action that applies the location information indicating the first specific location where the first user has been located, thereby ensuring an activity area for the user by applying the location information based on the user's location history.

[0026] (2) The device further includes an additional release means for releasing the usage restriction imposed on a second portion of the restricted area defined to include a displaced position to which the corresponding position has been displaced by the first user's operation when the first user performs an operation to displace the corresponding position included in any of the released portions where the usage restriction has been released in response to the first action. This allows the user's activity area to be secured by diverting location information based on the user's past location history.

[0027] An "operation to displace a corresponding position" is, for example, an operation to move (shift) an object related to the corresponding position. An operation to move an object is an operation to slide an object that visually represents at least the outline of the release portion including the corresponding position on the screen in any direction and by any size. When a mouse is used as the input device, the sliding operation is, for example, a drag-and-drop operation in which an object is dragged and dropped at a desired position. When a touch panel is used as the input device, the sliding operation is, for example, a swipe operation in which the display area of ​​the object is the start point and the desired position is the end point. The shape and size of the object may be changed when it is moved.

[0028] The "displaced position" refers to the position after displacement when the corresponding position is displaced by an operation to displace the corresponding position. The "second portion" defined to include the displaced position refers to the surrounding area of ​​the displaced position. The surrounding area of ​​the displaced position is an area of ​​a predetermined shape based on the displaced position and includes the displaced position. The surrounding area of ​​the displaced position is, for example, a rectangular area that includes the displaced position. The size and shape of the rectangular area can be set arbitrarily.

[0029] (3) The device further includes a second receiving means for receiving the operation, and the addition / cancellation means identifies the displaced position based on the direction and magnitude of displacement of the corresponding position due to the operation, thereby allowing the displaced position to be specified by a user operation.

[0030] (4) The system further includes an activation unit that activates a predetermined effect set at a predetermined position within the release portion when the first user performs a predetermined action targeting the predetermined position within the release portion, and the additional release unit imposes a restriction on activation of the predetermined effect on the additional release portion from which the usage restriction imposed on the second portion has been lifted. This can prevent excessive activation of the predetermined effect due to an expansion of the activity area caused by the diversion of location information.

[0031] A "predetermined position" is a position set within a virtual space. A predetermined position is, for example, the position of a spot placed within the virtual space. A "predetermined effect" is a device set at a predetermined position. A device is, for example, a benefit set for each spot placed within the virtual space. A benefit is, for example, treatment that is advantageous to the user. Treatment that is advantageous to the user is, for example, the granting of an item, the granting of monetary value, the strengthening of in-game characters, an increase in the reward for clearing the game, etc.

[0032] A "predetermined action targeting a predetermined position" is, for example, an operation of bringing an avatar that can move within virtual space closer to the predetermined position, an action of a user that can move within real space approaching a real position corresponding to the predetermined position, or an operation of applying position data indicating the vicinity of the predetermined position when an avatar that can move within virtual space is in the vicinity of the predetermined position to release the restriction on the activation of a predetermined effect associated with the predetermined position.

[0033] (5) The additional release means defines the second portion so that a first release portion and a second release portion that have no predetermined connection relationship with the first release portion are connected to each other, thereby ensuring a movement path to a release portion that has no connection relationship with other release portions formed by application of position information.

[0034] The "connection relationship" between two regions includes both a direct connection relationship and an indirect connection relationship. A direct connection relationship is a relationship in which both regions at least partially overlap. On the other hand, an indirect connection relationship is a relationship in which both regions are connected via other regions with which they have a direct connection relationship. A region that has no connection relationship with other regions can be generated by applying position information. Note that a region or group of regions that has no connection relationship with other regions may be referred to as an "enclave" in the following description. When a second portion is defined to be a path connecting two regions that have no connection relationship, the size and shape of the rectangular region are determined so that an overlapping portion occurs with each of the two regions.

[0035] (6) The device further includes a third receiving means for receiving information on the second action that applies the location information indicating the second specific location where the first user has not been located, thereby securing the user's activity area by applying location information that is not based on the user's location history.

[0036] (7) The third receiving means receives information on the second action that applies the location information indicating the second specific location where a second user who has a predetermined personal relationship with the first user has been located, thereby preventing excessive expansion of the activity area.

[0037] A predetermined "personal relationship" refers to a relationship in which two-way communication can take place. A relationship in which two-way communication can take place may be a temporary relationship, or a semi-permanent relationship that continues until at least one party wishes to terminate it. A relationship in which two-way communication can take place is, for example, a friendship formed by explicit consent of both parties, or a collaborative relationship in which two parties work together to carry out something. Other users with whom one has a collaborative relationship may be either friends or enemies.

[0038] [1-2.Terminology] "Game" refers to an electronic game provided at least in part through an online game service. In a broad sense, it refers to the game service itself, and in a narrow sense, it refers to an individual stage that makes up the game service. "Player" refers to a user of the game service. "Play" refers to a player playing the game by progressing through it.

[0039] "Solo play" refers to play by a single player. "Cooperative play" refers to synchronized play by multiple players in a cooperative relationship. In cooperative play, a cooperative relationship is formed between a player (host) who organizes cooperative game play and recruits players (guests) who respond to the recruitment and participate in the cooperative play of the game, and the progress of play is synchronized between players. [Example]

[0040] 2. Working Example [2-1. Overview] (1) Services of the Example This embodiment relates to a game service (hereinafter referred to as "the service of the embodiment") that is provided at least in part online. In the service of the embodiment, an electronic game (a game in a broad sense) is provided to a player in which the player sequentially controls four characters that make up a deck through predetermined actions, and sequentially challenges a plurality of stages (game in a narrow sense) prepared within the game. Hereinafter, the stages are referred to as "quests."

[0041] (2) Solo play, multiplayer There are two ways to play quests: solo play, where one player takes on the challenge alone, and multiplayer, where two to four players work together. In multiplayer, a cooperative relationship is formed between the host who organizes the multiplayer and recruits companions, and the guests who respond to the recruitment and participate in the multiplayer, and the progress of play is synchronized between players.

[0042] (3) Virtual map space, spot, spot effect FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram of an overview of a service according to an embodiment. In the service according to the embodiment, a virtual map space 100 (virtual space) formed so as to geographically correspond to real space is prepared. A large number of spots (predetermined positions) are arranged in the virtual map space 100 (spots 111 and 121 in FIG. 1(a)). A spot effect (predetermined effect) is set for each spot. In addition, a nearby range, which is a measure of proximity, is defined for each spot (ranges 112 and 122 in FIG. 1(a)).

[0043] A player can move his / her own avatar 130 (display element) within the virtual map space 100 by performing a predetermined operation or a predetermined action. A predetermined operation is an operation by which the player displaces his / her own avatar 130. A predetermined action is an action by which the player displaces himself / herself within real space. The avatar 130 can move within the virtual map space 100 in conjunction with or independent of the player's movement in real space. When the avatar 130 enters, for example, an area 112 in the virtual map space 100, a spot effect set in the spot 111 is activated (FIG. 1(b)). Activation of the spot effect grants, for example, a spot benefit to the player.

[0044] [2-2. Features] (1) Restrictions on the scope of activities 2 is an explanatory diagram of the features of the service of the embodiment. In the service of the embodiment, there is a limit to the player's activity area (usable area) in the virtual map space 100. Specifically, a usage limit is imposed on the entire virtual map space 100 in the initial state (FIG. 2(a)). Due to this usage limit, the spot effects set in the spots 111 and 121 in the initial state cannot be activated.

[0045] The usage restrictions imposed on the entire virtual map space 100 are partially and temporarily lifted based on the player's actual location in real space. Specifically, based on position data (position information) indicating the player's current location (specific position), the usage restrictions imposed on an area 142 (first portion) defined to include a position 141 (corresponding position) in the virtual map space 100 corresponding to the current position is temporarily lifted, and the area 142 becomes a temporary activity area (lifted portion, temporary area) (FIG. 2(b)). When the avatar 130 moves within the activity area and enters the range 122, the spot effect set for the spot 121 is activated.

[0046] The temporary active area shrinks over time. Specifically, the area 142 gradually shrinks based on a condition (shrinkage condition) set in association with the area 142 (FIG. 2(c)). As long as the spot 121 is inside any of the active areas, the spot effect set for the spot 121 can be activated. When the spot 121 is outside any of the active areas, the spot effect set for the spot 121 cannot be activated.

[0047] (2) Application of performance information 3 is an explanatory diagram of features of the service of the embodiment. In the service of the embodiment, the usage restrictions imposed on the entire virtual map space 100 can be partially and temporarily lifted based on the past and present location records of the player or other players in the real space. Specifically, when the player performs an instruction action (application action) to apply record information (position information) indicating a specific position (specific position) in the real space, the usage restrictions imposed on an area (first portion) defined so as to include a position (corresponding position) in the virtual space corresponding to that position are temporarily lifted.

[0048] For example, when the above-mentioned instruction action is performed, the usage restrictions imposed on the area 152 (first portion) including the position 151 (corresponding position) and the area 162 (first portion) including the position 161 (corresponding position) are temporarily lifted, and these become active areas (FIG. 3(a)). The achievement information is, for example, content associated with position data. The content associated with position data is a geotagged photo (image data) or SNS posting data (uploaded data) with position data. This achievement information becomes applicable to the player's virtual map space 100 on the condition that the player consumes, for example, a predetermined item (dedicated item, virtual currency item).

[0049] (3) Reuse of performance information An activity area (released portion) originating from a specific position indicated by the performance information may not be connected to other activity areas. For example, activity area 152 originating from position 151 is an enclave that is not connected to area 142, and the avatar 130 cannot move into it. In the service of the embodiment, the activity area may be displaced based on the player's past and present location history in real space. Specifically, the center position (corresponding position) of one of the activity areas may be displaced in the direction of the midpoint (displaced position) of the line segment connecting the centers of any two activity areas. When the player performs a (shift) operation, the usage restrictions imposed on the area (second portion) defined so as to include the midpoint of the line segment are partially and temporarily released.

[0050] For example, when a shift operation is performed to displace an object representing active area 162 in the direction indicated by the arrow in the figure (FIG. 3(b)), the midpoint between positions 141 and 151 is identified based on the direction and magnitude of the shift of the object, and position 161 is displaced to position 163, the midpoint, and rectangular area 164 is formed that includes position 163 and connects active area 142 and active area 152 (FIG. 3(c)). At this time, the usage restrictions imposed on area 164 are partially and temporarily lifted, and restrictions on the activation of spot effects are imposed.

[0051] [2-3. System Configuration of the Example] [2-3-1. Network Configuration] 4 illustrates a network configuration of a system according to an embodiment of the present invention. The system according to the present embodiment provides a service according to the present embodiment to a user.

[0052] As illustrated in FIG. 4, the system of the embodiment includes a user management server 10 that manages users (players) of the service of the embodiment, a data management server 20 that manages data related to the service of the embodiment, and a plurality of user terminals 30 (30-1, 30-2, ... 30-n) (n: natural number) that are used by a plurality of users, respectively.

[0053] The user management server 10 and the user terminal 30 can exchange data via a communication network 40. The data management server 20 can access a built-in or externally connectable storage 21. The user management server 10 can access data stored in the storage 21 via the data management server 20.

[0054] The communication network 40 may include at least one of existing networks such as the Internet, a mobile phone network, a wireless wide area network (WAN), a wireless local area network (LAN), and Ethernet (registered trademark).

[0055] (1) User management server The user management server 10 is a server device (computer) on which a web server program and an application program (control program) are installed. In response to a request, the user management server 10 causes the data management server 20 to obtain the necessary data from the storage 21 and provides the data (response) to the requestor. In response to a request, the user management server 10 also causes the data management server 20 to register the necessary data in the storage 21. The user management server 10 also executes various processes to provide the services of the embodiment. Note that a server system may be configured by linking multiple server devices together, and the functions of the user management server 10 may be shared or the load on the user management server 10 may be distributed.

[0056] (2) Data management server The data management server 20 is a server device (computer) in which a DB (Data Base) server program is installed. The data management server 20 and the storage 21 constitute a DBMS (Data Base Management System). In response to a request, the data management server 20 obtains the necessary data from the storage 21 and provides it to the requestor (response). In addition, the data management server 20 registers the necessary data in the storage 21 in response to a request. The storage 21 is a storage device that stores data related to the service of the embodiment. Note that a server system may be configured by linking multiple server devices, and the functions of the data management server 20 may be shared or the load on the data management server 20 may be distributed.

[0057] (3) User terminal The user terminal 30 is a user device (computer) on which a predetermined game program is installed. In this embodiment, the user device may be a general-purpose portable device on which a program can be installed (e.g., a mobile phone, a smartphone, a tablet terminal, a tablet PC (personal computer), a wearable device, etc.) or a general-purpose processing device (e.g., a PC (personal computer)).

[0058] [2-3-2. Electrical configuration] (1) Electrical configuration of the server device 5 illustrates an electrical configuration of a server device. The server device illustrated in FIG. 5 includes a CPU The system includes a control processing device 510 including a central processing unit (Central Processing Unit) and read-only memory (ROM), a main memory device 520 including random access memory (RAM), an auxiliary memory device 530 including a hard disk drive (HDD), an input device 540 including a mouse and keyboard, an output device 550 including a display and speakers, and a communication control device 560 including a network interface card (Network Interface Card). Note that a device such as an MPU (Micro-Processing Unit) or a DSP (Digital Signal Processor) may be used instead of the CPU.

[0059] Main memory device 520, auxiliary memory device 530, input device 540, output device 550, and communication control device 560 are each connected to control processing device 510 via a bus line. Control processing device 510 (1) loads a program stored in auxiliary memory device 530 onto main memory device 520, (2) acquires data from at least one of input device 540, auxiliary memory device 530, and communication control device 560 in accordance with instructions from the program, (3) calculates and processes the acquired data in accordance with procedures specified in the program, and (4) provides the calculated and processed data to at least one of auxiliary memory device 530, output device 550, and communication control device 560.

[0060] (2) Electrical configuration of the user device Fig. 6 illustrates an electrical configuration of a user device. The user device illustrated in Fig. 6 includes at least a DSP 611 constituting a control processing unit, a RAM 621 constituting a main storage unit, a ROM 622 and an EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory) 623 constituting an auxiliary storage unit, a touch panel display 631 constituting an input unit and display unit, a speaker 632 constituting an audio output unit, a NIC (Network Interface Controller) 641 and a wireless LAN (Local Area Network) chip 642 constituting a communication control unit, and a GPS (Global Positioning System) unit 651 constituting a positioning unit. Note that a device such as an MPU (Micro-Processing Unit) may be used instead of the DSP.

[0061] The RAM 621, the ROM 622, the EEPROM 623, the touch panel display 631, the speaker 632, the NIC 641, the wireless LAN chip 642, and the GPS unit 651 are each connected to the DSP 611 via a bus line. The DSP 611 (1) reads a program stored in the ROM 622 or the EEPROM 623 into the RAM 621, (2) Data is acquired from at least one of the touch panel display 631, EEPROM 623, NIC 641, wireless LAN chip 642, and GPS unit 651 in accordance with the instructions of the program, (3) the acquired data is calculated and processed in accordance with the procedures specified in the program, and (4) the calculated and processed data is provided to at least one of the EEPROM 623, touch panel display 631, speaker 632, NIC 641, and wireless LAN chip 642.

[0062] [2-3-3. Functional configuration] (1) Overview The functions of the user management server 10 and the data management server 20 are realized by installing an OS (Operating System) for server devices and a program (control program) that runs on the OS in the server devices, respectively. The program to be installed in the server device may be distributed in a state in which it is non-temporarily recorded on a recording medium such as a CD (Compact Disc), a DVD (Digital Versatile Disk), an MO disk (Magneto-Optical disk), or a flash memory, and then read from the recording medium into the server device, or may be supplied to the server device by being superimposed on a carrier wave via the communication network 40 or another communication network.

[0063] The functions of the user terminal 30 are realized by installing an OS (Operating System) for the user device and a game program that runs on the OS on the user device. Note that instead of a game program, the functions of the user terminal 30 can also be realized by installing a web browser program that runs on the OS for the user device and a game program (plug-in) that runs on the web browser program on the user device.

[0064] The OS for the user device is generally installed in the user device at the time of shipment. Other programs to be installed in the user device are generally supplied to the user device by being superimposed on a carrier wave via a communication network 40. Note that the other programs to be installed in the user device may be distributed in a state in which they are non-temporarily recorded on a recording medium such as a CD (Compact Disc), a DVD (Digital Versatile Disk), an MO disk (Magneto-Optical disk), or a flash memory, and then read from the recording medium into the user device.

[0065] (2) Functional configuration of the user management server Fig. 7 illustrates an example of the functional configuration of the user management server. As illustrated in Fig. 7, the user management server 10 includes a reception / provision unit 710, a setting unit 720, a trigger unit 730, a performance unit 740, a warning unit 750, and a synchronization unit 760. The reception / provision unit 710, the setting unit 720, the trigger unit 730, the performance unit 740, the warning unit 750, and the synchronization unit 760 are each configured to include a control processing device 510 and a communication control device 660 of the server device operating as the user management server 10.

[0066] The reception providing unit 710 receives information on a first action to apply record information (location information) indicating a first location (specific location) where a player (first player) has been located. The reception providing unit 710 also receives an operation to shift an object visually representing an activity area (release portion) on the screen.

[0067] The reception and provision unit 710 also receives information on a second action that applies record information (location information) indicating a second location (specific location) where the player has not been previously located. In particular, the reception and provision unit 710 receives information on a second action that applies record information indicating a second location where another player (second player) who has a cooperative relationship (a predetermined personal relationship) with the player (first player) has been previously located.

[0068] The receiving and providing unit 710 also provides the rendering instruction data output by the rendering unit 740 to the user terminal 30. The receiving and providing unit 710 also provides the warning instruction data output by the warning unit 750 to the user terminal 30.

[0069] The setting unit 720 sets a restricted area in which usage restrictions are imposed on the player in the virtual map space 100. Furthermore, when information on an action to which performance information (position information) is applied is received by the receiving / providing unit 710, the setting unit 720 releases the usage restrictions imposed on a portion (first portion) within the restricted area that is defined so as to include a position (corresponding position) in the virtual space that corresponds to the position (specific position) indicated by the performance information.

[0070] When the receiving / providing unit 710 receives information about an operation to displace a position (corresponding position) included in any of the activity areas (released portion) whose usage restrictions have been released in response to a first action to another position (displaced position), the setting unit 720 releases the usage restrictions imposed on a portion (second portion) within the restricted area defined to include the displaced position. In particular, the setting unit 720 identifies the displaced position based on the direction and magnitude of the shift of the object representing the activity area caused by the operation. The setting unit 720 also imposes a restriction on the activation of a predetermined effect on the additional released portion whose usage restrictions have been released. The setting unit 720 also defines the second portion so that the first released portion is connected to a second released portion that does not have a predetermined connection relationship with the first released portion.

[0071] The setting unit 720 sets an activity area (temporary area) that can be used by a player (first player) in the virtual map space 100 based on the location history of at least one of the player (first player) and another player (second player) in real space. The setting unit 720 also sets a contraction condition for the activity area in association with the activity area to gradually contract the activity area from its initial size. The setting unit 720 also updates the contraction condition for the activity area so that the progress of contraction of the activity area is inhibited, on the condition that the player pays a fee (inhibition fee).

[0072] The activation unit 730 activates a spot effect (predetermined effect) set for a spot when the player's avatar (a display element associated with the player) approaches the spot (predetermined position) within the activity area (release portion, temporary area).

[0073] The production unit 740 provides the user terminal 30 (display device) with production instruction data for visually producing the contraction of the activity area (temporary area) via the reception / provision unit 710. In particular, the production unit 740 provides the user terminal 30 with production instruction data for contracting an object visually representing the outline of the activity area from an initial size (a size larger than the current size) to a current size (a size approximate to the current size) in a predetermined time (short time) when the center (reference position) of the activity area is included in the display range.

[0074] When it is expected that the spot (predetermined position) will move out of the activity area (temporary area) within a predetermined time from now, the warning unit 750 provides warning instruction data for outputting a predetermined warning to the player to the user terminal 30 (display device) via the reception / provision unit 710. In particular, only when it is expected that a spot whose spot effect has not yet been activated will move out of the activity area, the warning unit 750 provides warning instruction data for outputting a warning including a call to attention that the spot effect has not yet been activated.

[0075] The synchronization unit 760 transmits cache update data to the user terminal 30 at a predetermined update timing, thereby updating the cache data held in the user terminal 30. The predetermined update timing is, for example, immediately after a game program is started in the user terminal 30 and the user management server 10 is accessed. The synchronization unit 760 also receives various data from the user terminal 30 at a predetermined timing, and updates the data managed by the data management server 20 as necessary.

[0076] [2-3-4. Database configuration] 8 illustrates an example of a database configuration in the system of the embodiment. These data are stored in the storage 21 and are accessible via the data management server 20. Cache update data including at least a portion of these data is provided from the user management server 10 (synchronization unit 760) to the user terminal 30 and is held as cache data in the user terminal 30.

[0077] (1) Player management information The player management information is management information that manages various parameters related to each player. The player management information is added during initial setup by each player, and is updated before the start or end of a quest. As exemplified in FIG. 8(a), the player management information associates at least the "number of currency items held" with a "player ID (identification information)" that is unique to each player.

[0078] (2) Restriction management information The restriction management information is management information that manages whether or not the virtual map space is initialized for each player. The restriction management information is added during the initial setup by each player. As illustrated in FIG. 8(b), the restriction management information associates at least an "initial restriction completed flag" that indicates that the initial restriction has been completed when it is significant with a "player ID." The initial restriction imposes a usage restriction on the entire virtual map space.

[0079] (3) Cancellation management information The release management information is management information that manages the status of each activity area. The release management information is added through a procedure in which each player applies performance information, and is updated as needed. As illustrated in FIG. 8(c), the release management information associates at least the "release time" indicating when the usage restriction was released, the "area division" that classifies the type of activity area, and the "status" indicating the current state of the activity area with the "player ID" and "reference position." The "area division" represents, for example, one of multiple divisions, including a circular area formed by applying performance information and a rectangular area formed by reusing performance information. The "status" represents, for example, one of multiple states, including contracting, contraction stopped, and disappearance.

[0080] (4) Contraction condition information The contraction condition information represents the contraction conditions for each activity area. The contraction condition information is added through a procedure that applies performance information by each player and is updated as needed. As illustrated in FIG. 8(d), the contraction condition information associates at least a "start size," an "end size," a "start date," and an "end date" with a "player ID" and a "reference position." In the service of the embodiment, the "start size" is the radius of the circle. The start size may be a fixed distance (e.g., 100 m) or a variable distance. The variable distance may vary, for example, depending on the type of performance information. In the service of the embodiment, the "end size" may be a real number greater than or equal to 0. If the end size is 0, the activity area disappears when the end date arrives. On the other hand, if the end size is greater than 0, the activity area stops contracting when the end date arrives and remains.

[0081] (5) Spot setting information The spot setting information is setting information that sets information related to spots to be placed in the virtual map space. The spot setting information is added as needed by the operator of the service of the embodiment. As illustrated in FIG. 8(e), the spot setting information associates at least a "spot ID" with a "position" and a "spot effect (effect type ID)."

[0082] (6) Spot effect setting information The spot effect setting information is setting information that sets information related to the spot effect. The spot effect setting information is added as needed by the operator of the service of the embodiment. As illustrated in FIG. 8(f), the spot effect setting information associates at least an "effect type ID" with a "start date," an "end date," an "activation condition," and a "content."

[0083] (7) Group management information Group management information is management information for managing multiple players who are in a cooperative relationship. Group management information is added each time a host starts recruiting for multiplayer. As illustrated in FIG. 8(g), the group management information associates at least a "group ID (identification information)" with a "status" indicating the current status of the group, "host" (player ID), and "guest" (player ID). The "status" indicates one of several states, including, for example, recruiting, active, and terminated.

[0084] [2-4. Information Processing Procedures] [2-4-1. Virtual map space initialization process] The setting unit 720 sets a restricted area in which usage restrictions are imposed on the player in the virtual map space 100. Specifically, the setting unit 720 updates (signals) the "initial restricted flag" in the restriction management information (FIG. 8(b)). As a result, the entire virtual map space 100 becomes a restricted area in which usage restrictions are imposed.

[0085] [2-4-2. Application process of performance information] (1) Procedure FIG. 9 illustrates a procedure for applying performance information by the system of the embodiment. In S905, the user terminal 30 detects a motion by the player that applies performance information. In S910, the user terminal 30 transmits performance information of the motion detected in S905 to the user management server 10. The performance information includes performance information or data for identifying the performance information. The data for identifying the performance information is, for example, a URL (Uniform Resource Locator). The user management server 10 (reception / providing unit 710) receives the performance information and identifies the location (specific location) indicated by the performance information.

[0086] In S915, the user management server 10 (setting unit 720) releases the usage restrictions imposed on a portion (first portion) of the restricted area defined to include a position (corresponding position) in the virtual space corresponding to the position (specific position) indicated by the performance information. Specifically, the user management server 10 (setting unit 720) generates release management information (FIG. 8(c)), inputs the corresponding position into "reference position," and inputs the current date and time into "release time." The "status" remains at its initial value (a value indicating contraction). In S920, the user management server 10 causes the user terminal 30 to update the display content. Through the above procedure, an activity area is secured based on the location performance of the player or other players in real space.

[0087] (2) Supplementary information An activity area may be secured based on the location history of another player (second player) who has a cooperative relationship (a predetermined personal relationship) with the player (first player). In S905, a motion of applying to a multiplayer game being recruited by the second player is detected. In S910, the group ID of the group management information (FIG. 8(g)) of the group being recruited is transmitted along with the motion information. The user management server 10 (reception / providing unit 710) receives the motion information and identifies the group management information. In S915, the activity area of ​​the second player is reflected in the first player on the condition that the "status" of the group management information has been updated to a value indicating validity. At this time, the activity area of ​​the first player is similarly reflected in the second player.

[0088] [2-4-3. Setting of contraction conditions] (1) Procedure The setting unit 720 associates a contraction condition for an activity area with the activity area in order to gradually contract the activity area from its initial size. Specifically, the setting unit 720 adds contraction condition information (FIG. 8(d)) for the newly secured activity area. At this time, the "reference position" is a position (corresponding position) in the virtual map space that corresponds to the position (specific position) indicated by the performance information. The "start size" is a fixed value or a value according to the type of performance information. The "end size" is a real number equal to or greater than 0. The "start" is the current date and time. The "end" is the time when a predetermined amount of time has passed since the "start".

[0089] (2) Supplementary information In the service of the embodiment, the activity area gradually shrinks based on the respective shrinkage conditions. However, the system of the embodiment does not include a process for gradually shrinking the activity area based on the shrinkage conditions. Therefore, there is no need to synchronize data between the user management server 10 and the user terminal 30 regarding the shrinkage of the activity area. Note that, since the activity area gradually shrinks from the "start size" to the "end size" during the period from the "start" to the "end," the current size of the activity area can be derived by calculation. In other words, the current size of the activity area can be derived by multiplying the start size by a number corresponding to the progress of the shrinkage period.

[0090] (3) Variations The user management server 10 may be configured to execute a process of gradually shrinking the activity area based on a shrinkage condition.

[0091] [2-4-4. Contraction effect processing] (1) Procedure FIG. 10 illustrates the procedure for contraction effect by the system of the embodiment. In S1005, the user terminal 30 receives an instruction from the player to change the display range. The instruction to change is an instruction to display a portion outside the display range of the virtual map space within the display range. The instruction to change is made, for example, by a swipe operation to scroll the image of the virtual map space or by a selection operation of a button to switch the display range of the virtual map space. In S1010, the user terminal 30 instructs the user management server 10 to change the display range.

[0092] In S1015, the user management server 10 queries (searches) the data management server 20 for an activity area whose reference position is included in the changed display range. In S1020, the user management server 10 (production unit 740, reception / providing unit 710) provides the user terminal 30 with production instruction data that visually produces the appearance of the activity area (temporary area) shrinking. In S1025, the user terminal 30 uses the production instruction data to visually produce the appearance of the activity area shrinking. Through the above procedure, the shrinkage of the activity area is impressed on the user.

[0093] (2) Content of the performance When the center (reference position) of an activity area is included in the display range, user terminal 30 shrinks an object visually representing the outline of the activity area from an initial size (a size larger than the current size) to a current size (a size approximate to the current size) in a predetermined time (short period of time). For example, when center 141 of activity area 142 is included in the display range (FIG. 2(b)), the object visually representing the outline of activity area 142 is shrinked from the initial size to the current size in a predetermined time (e.g., one second) (FIG. 2(c)). This makes a strong impression on the user of the shrinkage of the activity area.

[0094] [2-4-5. Warning Processing] When it is expected that the spot (predetermined position) will deviate from the activity area (temporary area) within a predetermined time from the present, the warning unit 750 provides warning instruction data to the user terminal 30 (display device) via the reception / provision unit 710, which causes a predetermined warning to be output to the player. This makes it clear to the user the disadvantages that may result from the contraction of the activity area. Note that the activity area gradually contracts from the "start size" to the "end size" during the period from the "start" to the "end," so the timing at which a spot will deviate from the activity area can be derived by calculation.

[0095] In particular, the warning unit 750 provides warning instruction data for outputting a warning including a call to attention that the spot effect has not been activated only when a spot with an unactivated spot effect is expected to move out of the activity area. This makes it possible to strongly impress upon the user the specific disadvantage caused by the contraction of the activity area. Note that if a spot effect of a specific spot has been activated in association with a specific player and recorded, it is possible to determine whether the spot effect has not been activated.

[0096] [2-4-6. Contraction condition update process] The setting unit 720 updates the contraction condition for the activity area so that the progress of contraction of the activity area is inhibited, provided that the player pays a fee (inhibition fee). The player pays a fee by updating the "number of currency items held" in the player management information (FIG. 8(a)) associated with the player so that it decreases.

[0097] There are two ways to inhibit the progress of contraction: slowing down and pausing. To slow down the progress of contraction, simply move back the "end" in the contraction condition information (Fig. 8(d)). To pause the progress of contraction, simply update the "start size" in the contraction condition information (Fig. 8(d)) to the current size, update the "start" to the date and time when contraction will resume, and update the "end" to the time remaining until the previous "end" from the updated "start." This can encourage early action to inhibit the progress of contraction of the active region.

[0098] [2-4-7. Repurposing of performance information] (1) Procedure 11 illustrates a procedure for diverting performance information by the system of the embodiment. In S1105, the user terminal 30 detects an operation to shift (displace) the center position (corresponding position) of one of the activity areas. In S1110, the user terminal 30 transmits operation information of the operation detected in S1105 to the user management server 10. The operation information includes a displacement vector (direction and magnitude of displacement) of the object caused by the operation. The user management server 10 (reception and provision unit 710) receives the operation information and identifies the position (displaced position) after the displacement caused by the operation.

[0099] In S1115, the user management server 10 (setting unit 720) releases the usage restriction imposed on a portion (second portion) within the restricted area defined to include the position after the displacement (displaced position). Specifically, the user management server 10 (setting unit 720) releases the usage restriction imposed on the portion (second portion) within the restricted area defined to include the position after the displacement (displaced position). 8(c)), enter the corresponding position into "reference position," enter the current date and time into "release time," and set "area division" to a value representing the rectangular area formed by the diversion of achievement information. Also, enter a value representing attachment (disappearance due to the disappearance of at least one of the two connected activity areas) into "status." At this time, the "status" of the release management information (FIG. 8(c)) associated with the activity area before displacement is updated to a value representing disappearance. In S1120, the user management server 10 causes the user terminal 30 to update the display content. Through the above procedure, the player's activity area can be secured by diverting achievement information.

[0100] (2) Operation mode The shift operation is an operation of sliding an object visually representing the outline of the active area on the screen in any direction and by any size. In the service of the embodiment, this is a swipe operation starting from the display area of ​​the object and ending at a desired position. For example, when a swipe operation is performed starting from the display area of ​​the object visually representing the active area 162 (FIG. 3(b)), a displacement vector is identified from the start point and end point of the swipe operation.

[0101] [3. Modifications] In the above embodiment, the setting unit 720 updates the contraction condition for the activity area so that the progress of contraction of the activity area is inhibited, provided that the player pays a fee (inhibition fee). Inhibition of the progress of contraction can be, for example, slowing down the contraction or suspending the contraction.

[0102] In response to this, the setting unit 720 may restore the activity area (temporary area) on the condition that the player pays a fee (restoration fee), and may associate a contraction condition with the activity area to gradually shrink the restored activity area from its initial size. This may encourage early action to restore the activity area. In particular, the setting unit 720 may restore the activity area on the condition that the payment of a larger fee (restoration fee) increases as the contraction of the activity area before restoration progresses. This may encourage earlier action to restore the activity area. The payment of the fee by the player is realized by updating the "number of currency items held" in the player management information ( FIG. 8( a) ) associated with the player so that it decreases.

[0103] Furthermore, the setting unit 720 may update the contraction condition for the activity area so that the activity area (temporary area) expands, conditional on the player paying a fee (expansion fee). This may encourage early action to expand the activity area. In particular, the setting unit 720 may determine the initial size after expansion depending on the amount of the fee (expansion fee) to be paid by the player. This allows the expansion to be larger, for example, as the fee burden increases. The player's payment of the fee is realized by updating the "number of currency items held" in the player management information (FIG. 8(a)) associated with the player so that it decreases.

[0104] To expand the active area, the "start size" in the contraction condition information (Figure 8(d)) is updated to the expanded start size, the "start" is updated to the current value, and the "end" is updated to the value obtained by adding the time from the "start" to the "end" before the update (contraction time) to the "start" after the update. [Explanation of symbols]

[0105] 10 User management server (an example of a spatial information processing device) 20 Data Management Server 21. Storage 30 User terminal (an example of a display device) 40 Communication Network 710 Reception providing unit (first reception means, second reception means, third reception means) 720 setting unit (restriction means, release means, additional release means, first setting means, second setting means) 730 Initiation unit (initiation means) 740 Production Department 750 Warning section 760 Synchronization Unit

Claims

1. a restriction means for setting a restricted area in which a usage restriction is imposed on the first user in a virtual space corresponding to the real space; a release means for releasing the usage restriction imposed on a first portion of the restricted area defined to include a corresponding position in the virtual space that corresponds to a specific position when the first user performs an action to apply position information indicating the specific position in the real space; and A spatial information processing device comprising:

2. The device further includes a first receiving means for receiving information on the first operation to apply the location information indicating the first specific location where the first user has been located. The spatial information processing device according to claim 1 .

3. and an additional release means for releasing the usage restriction imposed on a second portion within the restricted area, the second portion being defined to include a displaced position to which the corresponding position has been displaced by an operation performed by the first user to displace the corresponding position included in any of the released portions where the usage restriction has been released in response to the first action. The spatial information processing device according to claim 2 .

4. Further, a second accepting unit is provided to accept the operation, the addition / cancellation means identifies the displaced position based on the direction and magnitude of the displacement of the corresponding position due to the operation. The spatial information processing device according to claim 3 .

5. and further comprising an activation means for activating a predetermined effect set at a predetermined position within the release portion when a predetermined action targeting the predetermined position is performed by the first user. the addition / release means imposes a restriction on activation of the predetermined effect on the addition / release part from which the usage restriction imposed on the second part has been released; The spatial information processing device according to claim 4 .

6. the additional release means defines the second portion so that a first release portion and a second release portion that do not have a predetermined connection relationship therebetween are connected to each other; The spatial information processing device according to any one of claims 3 to 5.

7. The device further includes a third receiving means for receiving information on the second operation of applying the location information indicating the second specific location where the first user has not been located. The spatial information processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

8. the third receiving means receives information of the second operation to apply the location information indicating the second specific location where a second user who has a predetermined personal relationship with the first user has been located; The spatial information processing device according to claim 7 .

9. a restriction function that sets a restricted area in which usage restrictions are imposed on the first user in a virtual space corresponding to the real space; a release function that releases the usage restriction imposed on a first portion of the restricted area defined to include a corresponding position in the virtual space that corresponds to a specific position when the first user performs an operation to apply position information indicating the specific position in the real space; and A control program that causes the computer of an information processing device to realize the above.

Images