Information processing method, information processing system, and program

Abstract

To provide an information processing system, an information processing device, and a content reproduction device capable of achieving a new user experience.SOLUTION: An information processing system according to an embodiment of the present technology includes an acquisition unit, a setting unit, and a reproduction control unit. The acquisition unit acquires map information. The setting unit associates a region set based on the map information, a reproduction target content, and type information indicating a type of reproduction control for the reproduction target content with one another, and sets the region, the content, and the type information as content region information. The reproduction control unit controls reproduction of the reproduction target content on the basis of the type information. In this information processing system, the region, the reproduction target content, and the type information indicating the type of the reproduction control are associated with one another and set as the content region information. This makes it possible to realize a new user experience.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present technology relates to an information processing system, an information processing device, and a content playback device that can be applied to the production of content using location information. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a display method for grouping content information and displaying a list of content information. In this display method, content that is densely packed on a map is grouped and narrowed down to an appropriate number. In addition, a representative marker of the group is displayed on the map, and when the representative marker is selected, detailed information about the content belonging to the group is displayed. This makes it easy to select content arranged on the map (see, for example, paragraphs

[0001]

[0007] to

[0009] and Figure 3 of the specification of Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2010-257044 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] It is expected that content using location information will continue to become more widespread in the future, and there is a demand for technology that can provide users with a new user experience (UX).

[0005] In view of the above circumstances, an object of the present technology is to provide an information processing system, an information processing device, and a content playback device that can realize a new user experience. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In order to achieve the above object, an information processing system according to an embodiment of the present technology includes an acquisition unit, a setting unit, and a playback control unit. The acquisition unit acquires map information. The setting unit associates an area set based on the map information, a content to be played, and type information indicating a type of playback control for the content to be played, and sets the associated information as content area information. The playback control unit controls the playback of the content to be played back based on the type information.

[0007] In this information processing system, an area, a content to be played, and type information indicating a type of playback control are associated with each other and set as content area information, thereby enabling a new user experience.

[0008] The playback control unit may control playback of the content to be played back based on a position of the viewer relative to the area.

[0009] The playback control unit may control playback of the content to be played back in response to the viewer's entry into or exit from the area.

[0010] The type information may define playback control in overlapping areas of the content to be played back, the content being included in each of a plurality of pieces of content area information whose areas overlap each other.

[0011] The type information may define a priority regarding playback control of the content to be played back.

[0012] The type information may define a priority regarding at least one of control of a predetermined parameter, whether or not to play, and switching of the content to be played.

[0013] The content to be reproduced may include at least one of audio data and image data.

[0014] The type information may include first type information and second type information having a lower priority than the first type information. In this case, the playback control unit may play, in the overlapping area, the playback target content associated with the first type information by a first control method, play the playback target content associated with the second type information by a second control method different from the first control method when the playback target content associated with the first type information is being played, and play the playback target content associated with the second type information by a third control method different from the second control method when the playback target content associated with the first type information is not being played.

[0015] The third control method may be the same as the first control method.

[0016] The type information may include first type information and second type information having a lower priority than the first type information. In this case, the playback control unit may restrict playback of the content to be played associated with the second type information while the content to be played associated with the first type information is being played in the overlapping area.

[0017] The type information may include first type information and second type information having a lower priority than the first type information. In this case, the playback control unit may switch playback content of the playback target content associated with the second type information in the overlapping area in response to switching between playback and non-playback of the playback target content associated with the first type information.

[0018] The setting unit may associate the type information with the content to be played back in accordance with the type of the content to be played back.

[0019] The content to be reproduced may be audio data, in which case the type of the audio data may include at least one of speech, background music, and environmental sound.

[0020] The setting unit may associate the type information with a first priority for the speech, associate the type information with a second priority different from the first priority for the background music, and associate the type information with a third priority different from each of the first priority and the second priority for the environmental sound.

[0021] The setting unit may set the content area information by associating the content to be played back with the type information in at least one of an area specified by a user and an area other than the area specified by the user.

[0022] The information processing system may further include an output unit that outputs support information regarding the user's designation of the area.

[0023] The support information may include at least one of image information including the map information, a GUI, an icon, or a guide voice.

[0024] The information processing system may further include a display control unit that displays the area superimposed on the map information.

[0025] An information processing device according to an embodiment of the present technology includes an acquisition unit and a setting unit. The acquisition unit acquires map information. The setting unit associates an area set based on the map information, a content to be played, and type information indicating a type of playback control for the content to be played, and sets the associated information as content area information.

[0026] A content playback device according to an embodiment of the present technology is a content playback device connected to the information processing system, and plays the playback target content in accordance with playback control by the information processing system. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0027] [Figure 1]1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a configuration example of a content providing system according to an embodiment of the present technology; [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram for explaining a sound content map. [Figure 3] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram for explaining type information. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing an example of volume control according to priority. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing an example of control of whether or not to play back in accordance with priority. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing an example of control of switching of playback content according to priority. [Figure 7] 1 is a block diagram showing an example of a functional configuration of a content providing system according to a first embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a setting GUI according to the first embodiment. [Figure 9] 4 is a schematic diagram for explaining type information and priority in the first embodiment. FIG. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of volume control based on priority. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of volume control based on priority. [Figure 12] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process related to setting of area and type information. [Figure 13] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of a process for setting sound content data. [Figure 14] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram for explaining a tour sound. [Figure 15] FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of a content providing system according to a second embodiment. [Figure 16] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a setting GUI according to the second embodiment. [Figure 17] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a setting GUI according to the second embodiment. [Figure 18] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of volume control based on priority. [Figure 19] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of volume control based on priority. [Figure 20] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of a process for setting tour sounds and sound content data. [Figure 21] 1 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the hardware configuration of a computer that can realize a viewer terminal, a content providing server, and an information processing device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0028] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present technology will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0029] [Contents provision system] 1 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of a content providing system according to an embodiment of the present technology. The content providing system 100 functions as an embodiment of an information processing system according to the present technology. In this embodiment, the content providing system 100 can create content using location information and provide it to content users. Below, as an example of content using location information, we will take a sound content map, in which dialogue, narration, background music, environmental sounds, etc. are played when a content user wearing sound processing devices such as headphones or earphones enters a specified area. Of course, the application of this technology is not limited to the creation of the sound content map described above.

[0030] [Sound Content Map] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram for explaining the sound content map 1. As shown in FIG. The sound content map 1 is content that uses an audio AR (Augmented Reality) system that can provide the content experiencer 2 with an auditory AR experience. 2, sound content data 4 is virtually placed as content to be played in a predetermined real-world area 3. As the sound content data 4, any audio data such as dialogue or narration, background music, or environmental sounds may be placed. A plurality of sound content data 4 may be arranged in one area 3. In other words, a content to be reproduced, which is made up of a plurality of sound content data 4, may be arranged in one area 3. The content to be played back to the content experiencer 2 is not limited to the sound content data 4, and non-sound content such as AR objects and advertising objects may also be used. In this case, the content may be called, for example, a content map. The sound content data 4 and non-sound content data may also be combined. By entering the area 3 in the real world, the content experiencer 2 can listen to the sound content data 4 arranged in the area 3. For example, content user 2 can experience virtual content such as walking around the city of Ryogoku and hearing a narration explaining the history of sumo the moment they enter the Ryogoku Kokugikan Sumo Hall, as well as the loud cheers of a sumo match.

[0031] To realize the sound content map, content production and playback of the sound content data 4 are carried out. Content is produced by a creator (content producer) 5. As a specific example, an area 3 is set based on map information. The location information of the set area 3 is defined by, for example, latitude information and longitude information. For example, the area 3 is defined by latitude information and longitude information of the periphery, vertices, center position, etc. of the area 3. Of course, this is not a limitation to the case where such data is used. When the creator 5 places the sound content data 4 in the area 3, the area 3 is associated with the sound content data 4. Specifically, the latitude information and longitude information of the area 3 and the sound content data 4 are stored in association with each other. Furthermore, the creator 5 associates type information indicating the type of playback control for the sound content data 4. Therefore, the area 3, the sound content data 4, and the type information are associated with each other. The type information will be described later. In the present disclosure, information in which the area 3, the sound content data 4, and the type information are associated with one another is referred to as content area information. That is, the creator 5 sets the content area information.

[0032] The creator 5 corresponds to an embodiment of a user according to the present technology. The content experiencer 2 corresponds to an embodiment of a viewer according to the present technology. The sound content data 4 corresponds to an embodiment of the content to be reproduced, the audio data, and the content data according to the present technology.

[0033] As shown in FIG. 2, the sound content data 4 is reproduced by a viewer terminal 6 held by the content experiencer 2 and headphones 7 worn by the content experiencer 2. As shown in FIG. Any device may be used as the viewer terminal. For example, an application (application program) according to the present technology for experiencing the sound content map 1 is installed on a user terminal such as a smartphone or tablet terminal owned by a content experiencer 2. This makes it possible to use the user terminal as the viewer terminal 6 for experiencing the sound content map 1. Alternatively, a dedicated device for experiencing the sound content map 1 may be prepared as the viewer terminal 6 and lent to the content experiencer 2. The device capable of outputting sound is not limited to the headphones 7, but may be, for example, an earphone, a head-mounted display, or any other device.

[0034] The viewer terminal 6 detects the entry and exit of the content experiencer 2 into the area 3. The entry and exit of the content experiencer 2 is detected by calculating the position of the content experiencer 2 with respect to the area 3. In this embodiment, a device equipped with a position sensor capable of acquiring position information is used as the viewer terminal 6. In this embodiment, an example is taken in which a GPS sensor is installed as the position sensor. The GPS sensor can acquire position information (latitude information / longitude information) by receiving GPS signals transmitted from GPS satellites. Of course, this is not limiting, and any other position sensor may be installed. Based on the received GPS signal, the position information (latitude information / longitude information) of the content experiencer 2 relative to the area 3 is calculated. The position information of the content experiencer 2 is compared with the position information of the area 3, and entry or exit is detected.

[0035] For example, in response to the entry of the content experiencer 2 into the area 3, the playback of the sound content data 4 is started. In addition, in response to the exit of the content experiencer 2 from the area 3, the playback of the sound content data 4 is stopped. In addition, synthesis of a plurality of sound content data 4 and playback of synthesized data generated by the synthesis are executed. Specifically, when it is detected that the content experiencer 2 has entered the area 3, a process of playing back the sound content data 4 associated with the area 3 is executed. As a result, sound corresponding to the sound content data 4 is output from the headphones 7. Furthermore, when the application according to this embodiment is started, if the content experiencer 2 is located inside the area 3, a process of playing back the sound content data 4 is also executed. When it is detected that the content experiencer 2 has left the area 3, a process is executed to stop the playback of the sound content data 4 associated with the area 3. For example, if the sound content data 4 is background music, the playback of the background music is stopped or faded out. If the sound content data 4 is dialogue or narration, the playback continues until the dialogue, etc. ends, and then the playback is stopped. Furthermore, for example, when multiple areas 3 overlap, synthesized data is generated by synthesizing multiple pieces of sound content data 4 associated with each area 3. Then, playback processing of the synthesized data is executed in the overlapping areas where the multiple areas overlap. The control is not limited to the playback, stopping of playback, and synthesis of the sound content data 4, and any control may be executed. The sound content map 1 enables the content experiencer 2 to have a virtual experience of unprecedented high quality.

[0036] As shown in FIG. 1, the content providing system 100 includes a viewer terminal 6, a content providing server 8, and an information processing device 9. The viewer terminal 6, the content providing server 8, and the information processing device 9 are connected via a network 10 so as to be able to communicate with each other. The network 10 is constructed, for example, by the Internet, a wide area communication network, etc. Alternatively, any WAN (Wide Area Network) or LAN (Local Area Network) may be used, and the protocol for constructing the network 10 is not limited.

[0037] Each of the viewer terminal 6, the content providing server 8, and the information processing device 9 has hardware necessary for configuring a computer, such as a processor such as a CPU, GPU, or DSP, memory such as a ROM or RAM, a storage device such as a HDD, etc. Of course, hardware such as an FPGA or ASIC may also be used (see FIG. 21). In each device, for example, a processor loads a program according to the present technology, which is pre-recorded in a ROM or the like, into a RAM and executes the program, thereby executing the information processing method according to the present technology. The program may be installed in each device via various recording media, or may be installed via the Internet or the like. The type of recording medium on which the program is recorded is not limited, and any computer-readable recording medium may be used. For example, any computer-readable non-transitory storage medium may be used. For example, each device can be realized by any computer such as a PC, a smartphone, etc. Of course, the viewer terminal 6, the content providing server 8, and the information processing device 9 are not limited to having the same configuration.

[0038] Any device equipped with a location sensor capable of acquiring location information may be used as the viewer terminal 6. In this embodiment, a device equipped with a GPS sensor is used. The GPS sensor acquires the latitude and longitude information of the viewer terminal 6 as location information. The viewer terminal 6 has a playback control unit 11 as a functional block. The playback control unit 11 is realized as a software block, for example, by a processor executing a predetermined program such as an application program. Of course, dedicated hardware such as an IC (integrated circuit) may be used to realize each block. The playback control unit 11 controls the playback of the sound content data 4 based on the position of the content experiencer 2 relative to the area 3. Specifically, the playback control unit 11 controls the playback of the sound content data 4 in response to content entering or leaving the area 3. For example, as described above, playback of the sound content data is started in response to the entry of the content experiencer 2 into the area 3. Also, playback of the sound content data 4 is stopped in response to the exit of the content experiencer 2 from the area 3. In addition, synthesis of the sound content data 4, etc. is performed. Furthermore, as will be described in detail later, the playback control unit 11 controls the playback of the playback target content associated with the type information based on the type information set as content area information.

[0039] The information processing device 9 is used by the creator 5 to set content area information. That is, the information processing device 9 is used as a creator tool. The creator 5 can create a desired sound content map 1 using an information processing device 9. The created sound content map 1 is transmitted to a content providing server 8 as content to be provided to viewers.

[0040] As shown in FIG. 1, the information processing device 9 has, as functional blocks, an acquisition unit 12, a setting unit 13, and a display control unit 14. The acquisition unit 12, the setting unit 13, and the display control unit 14 are realized as software blocks, for example, by a processor executing a predetermined program. Of course, dedicated hardware such as an IC (integrated circuit) may be used to realize each block.

[0041] The acquisition unit 12 acquires map information. For example, the acquisition unit 12 acquires map information of various regions from a map server or the like connected to the network 10. Of course, this is not limiting, and the map information may be acquired via a storage medium or the like. The map information is associated with latitude information and longitude information as position information of each point. The information processing device 9 can display the acquired map information on a display, for example. The information processing device 9 can also acquire position information (latitude information / longitude information) of a point designated by the creator 5 or the like for the map information. As the map information, panoramic images taken at various locations in the real world may be displayed. For example, a panoramic image taken from Hyakutan Street may be displayed as the map information. Furthermore, aerial photographs, satellite images, etc. may be displayed as the map information. For example, software for using map information may be downloaded from a map server or the like, and it may be possible to display the map information, change the scale, obtain location information for each point according to the scale, etc. Alternatively, if an API (Application Programming Interface) for using the map information is made public, the map information may be made available by calling the API. The viewer terminal 6 and the content providing server 8 can also acquire and use map information. The setting unit 13 associates the area 3 set based on the map information, the sound content data 4, and type information indicating the type of playback control for the sound content data 4 with each other, and sets them as content area information. The display control unit 14 displays the area 3 superimposed on the map information, and also controls the display of a setting GUI (Graphical User Interface) to be described later. In this embodiment, the superimposition display of the area 3 on the map information, the display of the setting GUI, etc. are included in the output of support information related to the designation of the area 3. The support information includes any information that can support the creator 5 in specifying the area 3. For example, any image information such as a GUI, an icon, or a guide, any audio information such as a guide audio, or any other information that can support the specification of the area 3 is included. The output of the support information also includes any data output method capable of presenting the support information to the creator 5, such as displaying an image such as a GUI, or outputting a voice such as a guide voice. Of course, the output of support information also includes output of image information (support information) to a display device for displaying the image information (support information) on the display device, and output of support information to a speaker or the like for output of audio information (support information) by the speaker or the like. The output of the support information is executed by an output unit (not shown) realized as a software block, for example. The display control unit 14 shown in FIG. 1 may function as the output unit.

[0042] The content providing server 8 receives and manages the sound content map 1 created by the creator 5 using the information processing device 9. Then, it distributes an application for experiencing the sound content map 1 to the viewer terminal 6. For example, a distribution request for an application program is sent from the viewer terminal 6 via the network 10. When distribution is permitted by the content providing server 8, the application program can be downloaded via the network 10. The content providing server 8 also stores various information related to the content providing system 100. For example, map information, content area information, etc. may be stored. Also, various information generated in the past, history information, etc. may be stored. These pieces of information are transmitted and received to and from the information processing device 9 via the network 10 as required.

[0043] [Type information] The type information is information that indicates the type of playback control for the sound content data 4. In other words, the type information is information that defines how the sound content data 4 associated with each area 3 is to be played back. When the sound content data 4 is played back, playback control is performed according to the type information associated with the sound content data 4. For example, volume control, whether or not to play back content, and switching of playback content are performed according to the type information. In addition, any control may be performed as playback control according to the type information.

[0044] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram for explaining the type information. In this embodiment, the type information realizes a layer structure of the content area information. Playback control of the sound content data 4 is performed according to each layer. In this embodiment, information identifying each layer (information indicating each layer) is associated with the area 3 and the sound content data 4 as type information. Hereinafter, type information may be described as the name of the layer, such as "Layer A" or "Layer B." In other words, it may be described that Layer A is associated with Area 3. Furthermore, Area 3 and sound content data 4 associated with Layer A may be described as Area 3 and sound content data 4 of Layer A.

[0045] 3 shows two layers, layers A and B. The areas showing layers A and B respectively indicate areas corresponding to the map information 18 shown below. Three items (area 3, sound content data 4) are associated with layer A. That is, in the example shown in Fig. 3, three pieces of content area information each consisting of (area 3, sound content data 4, layer A) are set. Three items (area 3, sound content data 4) are associated with layer B. That is, in the example shown in Fig. 3, three pieces of content area information each consisting of (area 3, sound content data 4, layer B) are set. That is, in the example shown in FIG. 3, a total of six pieces of content area information are set, three on layer A and three on layer B.

[0046] In this way, by associating type information indicating the type of playback control with the area 3 and the sound content data 4, it is possible to realize a layer structure for playback control of content area information. Of course, application of the present technology is not limited to the case where a layer structure such as the example shown in Fig. 3 is constructed. Furthermore, it goes without saying that playback control using type information according to the present technology does not only indicate the layer structure such as the example shown in Fig. 3. For example, the association of type information may be performed by grouping according to the type of playback control, in which case the sound content data 4 is played back under playback control according to each group.

[0047] Areas 3 associated with different layers may be set to overlap each other. For example, an area 3 associated with layer A and an area 3 associated with layer B may be placed on the map so as to overlap each other. In this case, the area 3 associated with layer A and the area 3 associated with layer B have an overlapping area where they overlap each other.

[0048] For the content experiencer 2 who has entered the overlapping area, there are multiple pieces of sound content data 4 to be played back. For example, suppose that the content experiencer 2 has entered an overlapping area between area A associated with layer A and sound content data A and area B associated with layer B and sound content data B. In this case, the content experiencer 2 is located in both area A and area B. Therefore, both sound content data A and sound content data B become the playback targets for the content experiencer 2. In such a case, for example, composite data obtained by combining (mixing) sound content data A and sound content data B is played back to the content experiencer 2. For example, the volume, tone, and positioning of each piece of sound content data 4 are adjusted and reflected in the auditory sensation of the composite data.

[0049] In this embodiment, playback control of each sound content data 4 in the overlapping area is executed based on the type information. That is, the type information defines playback control in the overlapping area of ​​the sound content data 4 included in each of the plurality of content area information whose areas 3 overlap each other. Specifically, various parameters are controlled when mixing each piece of sound content data 4 based on type information such as layer A or layer B. The various parameters may be set to any parameters such as volume, sound quality, positioning, effects, etc. Based on the set parameters, the respective sound content data 4 are mixed to generate synthesized data. That is, the auditory sensation of the synthesized data is determined based on type information such as layer A or layer B. The generated composite data is played back to the content experiencer 2. The composition of multiple sound content data 4 is an example of playback control using type information. As playback control using type information, any playback control may be executed, such as control of whether or not to play, switching of playback content, etc.

[0050] [Priority] The type information may define the priority regarding the playback control of the sound content data 4. That is, the priority regarding the playback control of the sound content data 4 may be defined by each layer. For example, the type information can be used to define the priority regarding the control of predetermined parameters such as volume, sound quality, positioning, and effects, whether to play, or switching of playback content. The priority is set based on, for example, whether or not the audio is desired to be listened to preferentially by the content experiencer 2, or whether or not the audio is likely to be listened to preferentially by the content experiencer 2. The type information is set so that a high priority is assigned to the audio that is desired to be listened to preferentially by the content experiencer 2, or to the audio that is likely to be listened to preferentially by the content experiencer 2. Of course, the priority setting is not limited to this. For audio with a high priority, for example, when the sound content data 4 is played back, a process is executed in which the volume is increased preferentially. For example, a high priority is set for narration that includes information that is important to the content experiencer 2. This allows for playback control of the narration to be easily heard by the content experiencer 2. As a result, it becomes easier for the content experiencer 2 to recognize important information, and a high-quality user experience can be achieved. Of course, the present invention is not limited to this processing.

[0051] The priority may be defined with respect to the playback control of the image data. For example, a high priority may be set for an image that the content experiencer 2 is desired to view or an image that the content experiencer 2 is likely to view. For images with a high priority, processing such as giving priority to improving the image quality or giving priority to increasing the image size is performed, although the processing is not limited to these.

[0052] An example of playback control according to priority will be described with reference to FIGS. For example, in the example shown in FIG. 3, Layer A has a higher priority than Layer B. In this case, Layer A corresponds to first type information. Layer B corresponds to second type information that has a lower priority than the first type information. In this embodiment, the playback control unit 11 plays back sound content data A associated with layer A in the overlapping area using a first control method. Also, for sound content data B associated with layer B, if sound content data A is being played back, the playback control unit 11 plays back sound content data B associated with layer B using a second control method different from the first control method, and if sound content data A is not being played back, the playback control unit 11 plays back sound content data B associated with layer B using a third control method different from the second control method. Note that the third control method may be the same as the first control method. The playback control unit 11 executes control methods such as volume control, playback restriction, and playback content switching. Three control methods will be described below. For example, if the content data is image data, the control method may be to change the image quality, change the image size, etc. There are no other restrictions on the method of controlling the content data.

[0053] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing an example of volume control according to priority. FIG. 4 shows the volume according to the position of the content experiencer 2 when sound content data A of layer A and sound content data B of layer B are played back. In both the graphs of Layer A and Layer B in FIG. 4, the horizontal axis represents the position of the content experiencer 2, and the vertical axis represents the volume of the sound content data. In the example shown in FIG. 4, area A of layer A is included in area B of layer B. Therefore, the entire area A is an overlap area where area A and area B overlap each other.

[0054] As shown in FIG. 4, in the area where only area B of layer B is arranged and in the area of ​​area B other than the overlap area, only sound content data B is played back at the first volume. The first volume is set to a desired volume by the creator 5. For example, the first volume is set to a volume that is easy for the content experiencer 2 to hear, taking into consideration the device characteristics of the headphones 7 that output the audio. There are no other limitations on the method for setting the first volume. In the overlapping area where area A of layer A and area B of layer B overlap each other, sound content data A is played at a first volume, while sound content data B is played at a second volume that is lower than the first volume. The second volume, which is lower than the first volume, is set to a level that does not interfere with the reproduction of the sound content data A, which has a higher priority, for example, although the method is not limited to this.

[0055] In this way, the playback control unit 11 plays back sound content data A associated with layer A in the overlapping area at a first volume, and plays back sound content data B associated with layer B at a second volume lower than the first volume when sound content data A associated with layer A is being played back. Specifically, in the overlapping area, synthesized data is reproduced so that sound content data A is heard at a first volume and sound content data B is heard at a second volume. Note that synthesis of the sound content data 4 may not be performed, and each sound content data 4 may be reproduced separately at the first volume and the second volume. By appropriately controlling the volume of each sound content data in the overlapping area based on the priority, it is possible to play back high-priority sound content data A in an easy-to-listen-to manner while also playing back other sound content data B in an overlapping manner, thereby realizing a new user experience.

[0056] For example, when the content experiencer 2 moves through area 3 where only area B is arranged, only sound content data B is played back. In this state, when the content experiencer 2 enters the overlapping area, the sound content data A starts playing anew the moment he or she enters, and the volume of the sound content data B that was originally being played is reduced, providing an audible sensation. Furthermore, in this state, if content experiencer 2 leaves the overlapping area and moves again through an area where only area B is located, the moment he or she leaves, the playback of sound content data A stops and the volume of sound content data B returns to normal, providing the auditory sensation. Furthermore, for example, when the content experiencer 2 enters the overlapping area from an area where only area B is arranged, the volume of the sound content data A is gradually increased (fade in) so that it finally reaches the first volume. Also, when the content experiencer 2 leaves the overlapping area and again enters an area where only area B is arranged, the volume of the sound content data A is gradually decreased (fade out) and the playback of the sound content data B is gradually increased (fade in). This allows the content experiencer 2 to clearly experience the entry and exit between areas with a sense of realism.

[0057] In this way, in the overlapping area, the sound content data A with a higher priority is played back at a louder volume than the sound content data B with a lower priority. For example, when the importance of sound content data A is higher than that of sound content data B, priority setting and playback control as in this embodiment are executed. If sound content data B is played back at a high volume in the overlapping area, it may become difficult for the content experiencer 2 to hear sound content data A containing important information. Therefore, by setting the priority of layer A high, the volume of sound content data B is reduced when sound content data A is played back. This makes it possible to make sound content data A easier to hear.

[0058] It is assumed that the length (playback time) of sound content data A is fixed. For example, it is assumed that sound content data A is a three-minute narration. In this case, if the playback of sound content data A ends while the content experiencer 2 is in the overlapping area, the volume of content data B may be set to a first volume. In other words, if sound content data A is not being played, sound content data B may be played at a high volume even if it is in the overlapping area. On the other hand, when the content experiencer 2 has left the overlapping area and is located only in area B, if the playback of sound content data A has not finished, sound content data A may be played at a first volume and sound content data B may be played at a second volume. That is, if the reproduction of sound content data A continues, even after exiting the overlapping area, sound content data A may be reproduced at a high volume and sound content data B may be reproduced at a low volume.

[0059] The playback volume of the sound content data B in the area other than the overlap area, and the playback volumes of the sound content data A and B in the overlap area can be set arbitrarily. For example, the playback volume of sound content data A in the overlapping area may be louder than the playback volume of sound content data B in the area other than the overlapping area. In addition, any volume control may be performed based on the priority so that the user can experience more realistic content.

[0060] The sound content data A corresponds to an embodiment of the content to be reproduced associated with the first type information according to the present technology, and the sound content data B corresponds to an embodiment of the content to be reproduced associated with the second type information according to the present technology. In addition, in this embodiment, with regard to volume control of the sound content data 4, playback at a first volume is executed as the first control method and the third control method, and playback at a second volume is executed as the second control method. That is, in this embodiment, the same control method is executed as the first control method and the third control method.

[0061] FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram showing an example of control of whether or not to play back content according to priority. FIG. 5 shows whether or not sound content data A of layer A and sound content data B of layer B are played back depending on the position of the content experiencer 2 (ON / OFF). In the example shown in FIG. 5, the reproduction of the sound content data B with a lower priority is stopped in the overlapping area.

[0062] The playback control unit 11 restricts the playback of sound content data B associated with layer B while sound content data A associated with layer A is being played back in the overlapping area. By appropriately controlling whether or not to play back each piece of sound content data in the overlapping area based on the priority, it becomes possible to play back sound content data A with a high priority so that it can be fully heard. For example, when the content experiencer 2 moves through an area where only area B is located, only sound content data B is played back. In this state, when the content experiencer 2 enters the overlapping area, the moment he or she enters, the playback of sound content data A starts anew, and the playback of sound content data B that was originally being played is stopped or muted, providing an audible sensation. Furthermore, in this state, if the content experiencer 2 leaves the overlapping area and again moves through the area where only area B is located, the moment he or she leaves, the playback of sound content data A is stopped or muted, and playback of sound content data B begins again, providing the auditory sensation. In this embodiment, the playback of sound content data A corresponds to an embodiment of a first control method according to the present technology. Furthermore, the stopping or muting of the playback of sound content data B corresponds to an embodiment of a second control method according to the present technology that is different from the first control method. Furthermore, the starting of the playback of sound content data B corresponds to an embodiment of a third control method according to the present technology that is different from the second control method.

[0063] FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram showing an example of control of switching of playback content according to priority. 6, two types of sound content data B1 and B2 are associated with area B of layer B. That is, a plurality of sound content data are associated with one area B. In the overlapping area, the playback of the low-priority sound content data B1 and B2 is switched in response to switching between playback and non-play of the high-priority sound content data A. In other words, the playback content is switched in response to switching between playback and non-play of the sound content data A.

[0064] The playback control unit 11 switches the playback content of the sound content data B1 and B2 associated with the layer B in the overlapping area in accordance with whether or not the sound content data A associated with the layer A is being played back. Specifically, sound content data 4 that gives the auditory sensation of sound content data A and sound content data B2 being simultaneously reproduced in the overlapping area is generated as synthesized data. In the area where only area B is arranged, sound content data B1 is reproduced. By switching the playback content of Layer B, which has a lower priority in the overlapping area based on the priority, it becomes possible to effectively create scenes, situations, and scenery, for example, and provide a new user experience. Of course, it is also possible to create other visual effects.

[0065] For example, when content user 2 is sightseeing while walking around the city of Ryogoku, sound content data B1, such as the footsteps and voices of people walking on the street, is played. When content user 2 enters Ryogoku Kokugikan, sound content data A, a narration explaining the history of sumo, begins to play, and at the same time, sound content data B2, such as the loud cheers of a sumo match, is played. When content user 2 leaves the Ryogoku Kokugikan, sound content data B1, such as the footsteps and voices of people walking on the street, is played again. This type of playback control makes it possible to create the atmosphere of the venue with cheers while playing back narration, thereby realizing a high-quality user experience.

[0066] Note that the switching of the playback content is not limited to switching between different sound content data, but may be achieved by changing the playback time of the sound content data. For example, in an area where only area B is arranged, sound content data is reproduced from the beginning. On the other hand, in the overlapping area, sound content data is reproduced from a predetermined reproduction time. By such a reproduction process, the reproduction contents may be switched. In this embodiment, the reproduction of sound content data A corresponds to an embodiment of a first control method according to the present technology. The reproduction of sound content data B2 corresponds to an embodiment of a second control method according to the present technology that is different from the first control method. The reproduction of sound content data B1 corresponds to an embodiment of a third control method according to the present technology that is different from the second control method.

[0067] 4 to 6, a plurality of the three methods of playback control according to priority may be combined. For example, the volume of the sound content data 4 having layer B in the overlapping area may be changed, and the playback content may be switched at the same time. Priorities may also be set for image data. For example, priorities may be defined for controlling predetermined parameters, such as image quality or image size. Priorities may also be defined for whether or not to play an image and for switching the content of the image to be played. In addition, the method of controlling playback according to priority is not limited.

[0068] A sound processing device such as headphones or earphones corresponds to an embodiment of a content playback device according to the present technology that plays back content to be played back in accordance with playback control by an information processing system. Playback of the content to be played by the content playback device includes presenting sound and images to the content viewer 2, such as outputting sound in accordance with playback control of audio data and displaying images on a display or the like in accordance with playback control of image data. Therefore, an image display device such as a display can also be used as a content playback device according to the present technology. In addition, any other configuration may be adopted as a content playback device.

[0069] First Embodiment The first embodiment will be described in detail with regard to the content providing system 100 shown in FIG. [Example of a content provision system configuration] FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the content providing system 100 according to the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 7, the viewer terminal 6 includes a communication unit 21, a GPS sensor 22, a display unit 23, an operation unit 24, a storage unit 25, and a control unit 26. The communication unit 21 is a device for communicating with other devices. For example, a wireless LAN module such as WiFi, or a communication device such as a modem or router may be used as the communication unit 21. Any other communication device may also be used. The display unit 23 displays various information such as map information, GUI, etc. As the display unit 23, any display device such as a liquid crystal display or an organic EL (Electro Luminescence) display may be used. The operation unit 24 is, for example, a keyboard, a pointing device, a touch panel, or other operation device. When the operation unit 24 includes a touch panel, the touch panel can be integrated with the display unit 23. The storage unit 25 is realized by a memory, a storage device, or the like. The control unit 26 includes hardware necessary for configuring a computer, such as a processor such as a CPU, memories such as a ROM and a RAM, and storage devices such as an HDD.

[0070] In this embodiment, a playback control unit 11 shown in Fig. 1 is realized as a functional block by a processor executing an application program or the like according to the present technology. Of course, dedicated hardware such as an IC (integrated circuit) may be used to realize the functional block. In this embodiment, an application program according to the present technology is installed in the viewer terminal 6. The application program is distributed from the content providing server 8 via the network 10, for example, and stored in the storage unit 25.

[0071] The content providing server 8 includes a communication unit 30, a control unit 31, and a storage unit 32. The control unit 31 includes hardware necessary for configuring a computer, such as a processor such as a CPU, memories such as a ROM and a RAM, and a storage device such as an HDD. In this embodiment, the processor executes a program according to the present technology, thereby realizing functional blocks including a content input / output unit 33 and an application distribution unit 34. Of course, dedicated hardware such as an IC (integrated circuit) may be used to realize the functional blocks. The content input / output unit 33 controls the operation of the communication unit 30 so that various data stored in the storage unit 32 is transmitted to and received from the information processing device 9 and the like. The application distribution unit 34 controls the operation of the communication unit 30 so that the application program stored in the storage unit 32 is distributed to the viewer terminal 6 .

[0072] The information processing device 9 includes a communication unit 37 , a display unit 38 , an operation unit 39 , a storage unit 40 , and a control unit 41 . The control unit 41 includes hardware necessary for configuring a computer, such as a processor such as a CPU, memories such as a ROM and a RAM, and a storage device such as an HDD. In this embodiment, when the processor executes a program related to the present technology, functional blocks including a layer selection unit 42, a map / area display unit 43, an area sound list display unit 44, and a detailed setting unit 45 are realized.

[0073] The layer selection unit 42, map / area display unit 43, area sound list display unit 44, and detail setting unit 45 generate various GUIs for creating a sound content map and display them on the display unit 38. In this embodiment, in order to set content area information, an area setting GUI, an area sound setting GUI, and a detailed setting GUI are generated. The layer selection unit 42 and the map / area display unit 43 generate a GUI for area setting. The area sound list display unit 44 generates a GUI for area sound setting. The detail setting unit 45 generates a GUI for detail setting. In this embodiment, the layer selection unit 42, the map / area display unit 43, the area sound list display unit 44, and the detail setting unit 45 implement the acquisition unit 12, the setting unit 13, and the display control unit 14 shown in FIG. Furthermore, the layer selection unit 42, the map / area display unit 43, the area sound list display unit 44, and the detail setting unit 45 implement an output unit according to the present technology.

[0074] As shown in FIG. 7, in this embodiment, the viewer terminal 6, the content providing server 8, and the information processing device 9 are connected to a map server 48 via a network 10 so as to be able to communicate with each other. The map server 48 is capable of outputting map information 18 of various regions. Furthermore, the map information 18 is associated with latitude information and longitude information as position information of each point. Here, the position information is not limited to latitude information and longitude information. Information other than latitude information and longitude information, such as altitude information or POI (Point of Interest) information, may also be used as position information. The viewer terminal 6 and the information processing device 9 can acquire map information from the map server 48 and display it on their respective display units. In addition, the viewer terminal 6, the content providing server 8, and the information processing device 9 can acquire location information (latitude and longitude information) of a point specified by the creator 5 or the like for the map information 18. Panoramic images taken at various locations in the real world may be displayed as the map information 18. For example, a panoramic image taken from Hyakutan Street may be displayed as the map information. An aerial photograph may also be displayed as the map information. For example, software for using the map information 18 may be downloaded from the map server 48, and it may be possible to display the map information, change the scale, obtain location information for each point according to the scale, etc. Alternatively, if an API for using the map information is made public, the map information may be made available by calling the API.

[0075] [GUI for settings] FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a setting GUI according to the first embodiment. 8 is displayed on the display unit 38 of the information processing device 9. Via the setting GUI 51, the creator 5 specifies the area 3, sets the content area information, and the map / area display unit 43 superimposes the area 3 on the map information 18. In FIG. 8, a setting GUI 51 includes, from the left, a region setting GUI 52, an area sound setting GUI 53, and a detailed setting GUI 54, which are displayed together as a single GUI. The area setting GUI 52 is generated by the layer selection unit 42 and the map / area display unit 43 . The area sound setting GUI 53 is generated by the area sound list display unit 44. The detail setting GUI 54 is generated by the detail setting unit 45 . The area sound is an example of an area 3 designated by the creator 5. The area sound is a type of area 3 that is distinguished from the tour sound described in the second embodiment, and the meanings and distinctions between the names will be described later.

[0076] The area setting GUI 52 displays the map information 18, a type selection button 55, and an area 3. The map information 18 and the area 3 are generated by the map / area display unit 43, and the display thereof on the display unit 38 of the information processing device 9 is controlled. In addition, the type selection button 55 is generated by the layer selection unit 42, and the display thereof on the display unit 38 is controlled. The area 3 is generated by the map / area display unit 43 and displayed superimposed on the map information 18. This allows the creator 5 to intuitively understand the location information of the area 3 in which it is located, making it easier to create the sound content map 1. The creator 5 draws the area 3 of a desired shape on the map information 18 by operating a touch pen, a mouse, or the like while checking the area setting GUI 52. In this way, the creator 5 specifies the area 3.

[0077] The map information 18 is information on a map of the area where the creator 5 specifies the area 3 . The map information 18 is displayed by the map / area display unit 43. Specifically, the communication unit 37 of the information processing device 9 acquires the map information 18 from the map server 48 via the network 10. The map / area display unit 43 generates the map information 18 to be displayed in the area setting GUI 52 based on the acquired map information 18. For example, the position and scale of the map to be displayed in the area setting GUI 52 are set, and the map information 18 is generated. The generated map information 18 is then displayed on the display unit 38.

[0078] The position information of the map displayed as the map information 18 can be changed arbitrarily. For example, the creator 5 can select a location on the map information 18 where no area 3 is located with a mouse and drag the location to change the display position arbitrarily. Alternatively, a display position change button (for example, up, down, left, and right arrow buttons) (not shown) may be placed on the area setting GUI 52, and the display position may be changed by pressing the display position change button. The scale of the map can also be changed arbitrarily. For example, the creator 5 can change the scale by scrolling a wheel attached to a mouse. Alternatively, a scale change button (e.g., a + / - button) (not shown) may be arranged on the area setting GUI 52, and the scale may be changed by pressing the scale change button.

[0079] The map display position and scale are changed by the map / area display unit 43 determining information input via the operation unit 39. For example, the map / area display unit 43 determines input instructions, coordinate information, etc. in response to an operation on a mouse or the like, and generates operation information. Furthermore, based on the operation information, the map / area display unit 43 generates new map information 18 to be displayed in the area setting GUI 52, and controls the display on the display unit 38.

[0080] The type selection button 55 is a button for specifying type information (layer) associated with the area 3. In this embodiment, type information (layer) is specified according to the type of sound content data 4. That is, the priority is defined according to the type of sound content data 4.

[0081] In this embodiment, three types of sound content data 4 are defined: speech, background music, and environmental sound. Therefore, three types of layers, namely, an utterance layer, a BGM layer, and an environmental sound layer, are set as type information corresponding to the utterance, the BGM, and the environmental sound, respectively. Three types of type selection buttons 55, namely, a speech button 56, a background music button 57, and an environmental sound button 58, are generated and displayed by the layer selection unit 42 as buttons for specifying the speech layer, background music layer, and environmental sound layer, respectively, from the left side.

[0082] Examples of sound content data 4 classified as speech (hereinafter simply referred to as speech) include narration, lines, etc. For example, a narration explaining an overview of a facility or area, or lines spoken by a character related to a facility, etc. are designated as speech. Examples of sound content data 4 classified as BGM (hereinafter simply referred to as BGM) include songs and music. For example, music that matches the atmosphere of the area or music related to the facility is designated as BGM. Of course, the composition of the music is not limited to vocal music or instrumental music, and music in general can be designated as BGM. The sound content data 4 classified as environmental sounds (hereinafter simply referred to as environmental sounds) includes, for example, sounds heard in various environments. For example, the sound of falling rain and the sound of blowing wind fall into the category of environmental sounds. Furthermore, human voices that do not fall into the category of narration or dialogue, such as cheers, also fall into the category of environmental sounds. In addition, the criteria for defining the type of the sound content data 4 are not limited and may be set arbitrarily. Any settings may be adopted for the type of the sound content data 4 and the type information corresponding thereto.

[0083] For example, if the creator 5 wants to place an utterance in area 3, he / she selects the utterance button 56. Then, by operating a touch pen, mouse, or the like, he / she draws an area 3 of a desired shape on the map information 18. This makes it possible to set the area 3 in which the utterance is placed on the utterance layer. In other words, it becomes possible to set content area information in which the area 3, the utterance, and the utterance layer (type information) are associated with each other. Furthermore, if the creator 5 wishes to place BGM in the area 3, he / she selects the BGM button 57. After that, he / she draws the area 3 of the desired shape on the map information 18. This makes it possible to set the area 3 in which the BGM is placed in the BGM layer. In other words, it becomes possible to set content area information in which the area 3, the BGM, and the BGM layer (type information) are associated with each other. Furthermore, if the creator 5 wishes to place environmental sound in area 3, he / she selects the environmental sound button 58. After that, he / she draws area 3 of a desired shape on the map information 18. This makes it possible to set area 3 in which environmental sound is placed on the environmental sound layer. In other words, it becomes possible to set content area information in which area 3, environmental sound, and the environmental sound layer (type information) are associated with each other. When the creator 5 selects a type selection button 55, display control such as changing the color of the selected type selection button 55 is performed to indicate that the button has been selected.

[0084] The area 3 is an area designated on the map information 18 by the creator 5 . The creator 5 can designate the area 3 by drawing on the map information 18 using a mouse, a touch pen, or the like. The creator 5 first selects the type information of the area 3 in which he or she wishes to draw by pressing the type selection button 55. This causes the layer selection unit 42 to select a type layer. Next, when the creator 5 executes drawing, the map / area display unit 43 displays the area 3 superimposed on the map information 18. When the creator 5 draws the area 3, the map / area display unit 43 sets the area 3 based on the map information. Specifically, the map / area display unit 43 calculates the position information of the area 3 based on the position information (latitude information / longitude information) of the map information 18. In this embodiment, the selected layer is associated with the position information of the specified area 3 and set as layer area information. The sound content data 4 is associated with the layer area information, thereby setting the content area information. The layer area information is stored in the storage unit 40.

[0085] In FIG. 8, a circular region 59, a rectangular region 60, and a polygonal region 61 are exemplified as the region 3. The shape of the area 3 designated by the creator 5 is not limited. For example, a polygonal area 61 as shown in FIG. 8 may be designated. This makes it possible to designate the area 3 in a shape that matches the outer shape of a building, for example. It is also possible to designate the area 3 in a shape that matches the shape of a road or a river. Furthermore, if it is not necessary to specify the shape of the area 3 in detail and it is sufficient to set only a rough range, a circular area 59 or a rectangular area 60 as shown in FIG. 8 may be specified. The shape of the region 3 is selected by, for example, a shape selection button (not shown). The creator 5 can designate the region 3 in a desired shape by, for example, pressing one of the polygon button, circle button, or rectangle button, and then drawing the region 3. After pressing the polygon button, the type of polygon, such as a triangle or a rectangle, may be selectable. Also, after selecting the circle button, the diameter of the circle may be set. Also, after selecting the rectangle button, the length of the vertical or horizontal side of the rectangle may be set. Other than that, the specific method for specifying the shape of region 3 is not limited.

[0086] The area 3 may be drawn by, for example, a drag operation using a mouse, or may be drawn in response to a drawing operation using a touch pen or the like. Furthermore, for example, after selecting the area 3, the drawn area 3 may be erased by pressing an erase button (not shown). Alternatively, the area 3 may be erased by pressing the Escape key on the keyboard or the like. Furthermore, the drawn area 3 may be movable. The area 3 can be moved, for example, by performing a drag operation on the area 3. This eliminates the need to erase the area 3 and then redraw the same area 3 when it is desired to change only the position of the area 3 without changing its shape, thereby reducing the time required to create the sound content map 1. Other than that, various operations relating to drawing of the area 3 are not limited.

[0087] 8, when the area 3 is selected, the area 3 may be highlighted by thickening the outer frame, allowing the creator 5 to intuitively confirm the area 3 that is currently selected. 8, the area 3 may be drawn with different patterns and colors for each layer, which allows the creator 5 to work while intuitively understanding the layers of the area 3.

[0088] An area sound list is displayed on the area sound setting GUI 53. The area sound list displays a list of layer area information and content area information set by the creator 5. Specifically, a list of area names 62 corresponding to each piece of layer area information and content area information is displayed. In the example shown in FIG. 8, the area names 62 corresponding to the area 3 drawn on the map information 18 are displayed in order from the top down as area A, area B, and area C. The area name 62 is linked to area 3 by the creator 5 operating the detailed setting GUI 54 described below, but immediately after the area is drawn, a temporary name such as area A or area 1 may be displayed as the area name 62.

[0089] The area sound list is displayed by the area sound list display unit 44. Specifically, the area sound list display unit 44 acquires layer area information and content area information from the storage unit 40. In addition, area names 62 corresponding to each of the acquired layer area information and content area information are displayed as a list. At this time, the areas 3 included in each of the layer area information and the content area information are displayed superimposed on the map information 18. For example, when an area 3 on the map information 18 is selected, the area name 62 corresponding to the area 3 is highlighted. Also, when an area name 62 in the area sound list is selected, the area 3 corresponding to the area name 62 is highlighted. This makes it possible to easily grasp the correspondence between the areas 3 and the area names 62. Furthermore, the list of displayed area names 62 is updated in real time in conjunction with the drawing or erasure of areas 3 on the map information 18. This makes it possible to improve the operability of setting layer area information and content area information.

[0090] It is also possible to list only layer area information that has not yet been associated with sound content data 4. It is also possible to list only content area information that has already been associated with sound content data 4. Of course, the list display of only layer area information and the list display of only content area information may be switchable.

[0091] 8, the area name 62 and a type information icon 63 indicating the layer may be displayed at the same time. In this embodiment, the type information icon 63 is a circular icon having the same pattern or color as the area 3 drawn on the map information 18. This makes it possible to easily grasp which layer is selected for each of the layer area information and the content area information.

[0092] Furthermore, each area name 62 may be divided into groups. In the example shown in Fig. 8, area A, area B, and area C are classified into a group resembling a folder called Scene (1), and are displayed hierarchically. Also displayed are groups other than scene (1), such as scene (2) and scene (3). By selecting each group with a mouse or the like, it is possible to switch between displaying and hiding the area names 62 within the group. By grouping the area names 62, it becomes easier to manage each area 3. In addition, the display contents and operations of the area sound setting GUI 53 are not limited.

[0093] The area sound setting GUI 53 allows the creator 5 to easily grasp the areas 3 that are currently placed. In addition, because the area names 62 are listed, it is possible to easily manage the areas 3 that are placed and the layers of each area 3. This makes it possible to create the sound content map 1 with good workability.

[0094] The detailed setting GUI 54 displays various information related to the area 3. For example, when the creator 5 selects area 3 on the map information, detailed information about area 3 is displayed in the detail setting GUI 54. Alternatively, when an area name 62 displayed in the area sound setting GUI 53 is selected, detailed information may be displayed in the detail setting GUI 54. These processes are realized by the map / area display unit 43, the area sound list display unit 44, and the detail setting unit 45 each cooperatively acquiring various pieces of information about area 3.

[0095] As shown in FIG. 8, in this embodiment, a space name setting field 64, a space category setting field 65, a sound file setting field 66, a sequential setting field 67, a playback count setting field 68, a repeat setting field 69, a fade-in / out setting field 70, and a playback stop condition setting field 71 are displayed on the detailed setting GUI 54. The creator 5 can perform various detailed settings for the area 3 by operating each item in the detailed setting GUI 54 .

[0096] The display of the detail setting GUI 54 is executed by the detail setting unit 45. Specifically, the detail setting unit 45 acquires layer area information and content area information from the storage unit 40. Based on the acquired content area information, etc., various information related to the area 3, such as sound content data 4 linked to the area 3, is extracted, and the detail setting GUI 54 is generated based on the extracted information. In addition, the display of the generated detail setting GUI 54 on the display unit 38 is controlled. Of course, information that has not yet been set will be displayed as blank. For example, when layer area information is selected, sound content data 4 has not yet been set, so that part will be blank. Furthermore, when the creator 5 operates the detailed setting GUI 54 to execute various settings related to the area 3, the detailed setting unit 45 associates the settings. For example, when the creator 5 specifies sound content data 4 to be associated with the area 3, the detailed setting unit 45 associates the specified sound content data 4 with the area 3 and layer stored in the storage unit 40. Furthermore, when the number of times the area 3 is to be played is specified, the detailed setting unit 45 associates the specified number of times the area 3 is to be played with the area 3 and type information stored in the storage unit 40.

[0097] The space name setting field 64 is an item for setting the area name 62 . The creator 5 can input a desired area name 62 in a space name setting field 64 . By setting the area names 62 in this manner, it becomes easier for the creator 5 to understand and manage each area 3 .

[0098] The space category setting field 65 is an item for displaying and setting layers associated with the area 3 . The space category setting field 65 displays the layer selected when specifying the area 3. For example, by operating the pull-down button, it is possible to reselect the speech layer, background music layer, and environmental sound layer. As shown in Fig. 8, a type information icon 63 may be displayed at the same time as the layer, which allows the creator 5 to intuitively grasp the currently set layer.

[0099] The sound file setting field 66 is an item for specifying the sound content data 4 to be associated with the area 3 . For example, when an add button (+ button) as shown in Fig. 8 is selected, an audio file selection screen is displayed. The creator 5 can specify an audio file stored in, for example, the information processing device 9 on the selection screen, and set the audio file as the sound content data 4. Alternatively, the audio files may be stored in the content providing server 8, and each creator 5 may be able to specify the audio file. A plurality of audio files may be designated as the sound content data 4 for the same area 3. In this case, a plurality of sound content data 4 will be associated with the area 3.

[0100] At the stage when drawing is executed in the area setting GUI 52, only the area 3 and the layer are associated with each other, and layer area information that does not associate with the sound content data 4 is stored in the storage unit 40. By setting the sound content data 4 in the sound file setting field 66, the area 3, the sound content data 4, and the layer become content area information that is associated with each other, and is stored in the storage unit 40 by the detail setting unit 45. As a result, the sound content data 4 and the layer are associated with the area 3 designated by the creator 5, and content area information is set.

[0101] In this embodiment, the detail setting unit 45 associates type information with the sound content data 4 according to the type of the sound content data 4. Therefore, the type of the sound content data 4 specified by the creator 5 includes at least one of speech, background music, and environmental sound. For example, if the type information of area 3 is speech, sound content data 4 of which type is speech is specified. There are no restrictions on the audio length, capacity, extension, etc. of the specified audio file.

[0102] The sequential setting field 67 is an item for setting the reproduction order of the sound content data 4. Setting the playback order is an effective function when, for example, multiple pieces of sound content data 4 are associated with the area 3. Therefore, the detailed setting section 45 may execute control so that the sequential setting field 67 is displayed only when multiple pieces of sound content data 4 are associated in the sound file setting field 66. As shown in FIG. 8, in this embodiment, the playback order can be selected as "sequential" or "random." If "Sequential" is selected, when the content experiencer 2 enters the area 3, the playback control unit 11 of the viewer terminal 6 plays back the plurality of sound content data 4 in a predetermined order. Specifically, for example, the sound content data 4 is played in the order in which the creator 5 specifies the sound content data 4 in the sound file setting field 66. In this case, the detailed setting unit 45 associates the playback order with the sound content data 4, etc., and stores the order in the storage unit 40. Furthermore, when "sequential" is selected, a separate screen for specifying the playback order may be displayed. When "Random" is selected, the playback control unit 11 of the viewer terminal 6 plays back sound content data 4 randomly selected from the plurality of sound content data 4. Specifically, the moment the content experiencer 2 enters the area 3, the playback control unit 11 executes a lottery to select sound content data 4 to play back. In addition, one sound content data 4 selected by the lottery is played back. The lottery may be controlled so that sound content data 4 that has been played once is not played again until a predetermined time has elapsed. In other words, the sound content data 4 may be excluded from the lottery until the predetermined time has elapsed.

[0103] The playback count setting field 68 is an item for setting an upper limit on the number of times the sound content data 4 can be played. As shown in Fig. 8, in this embodiment, the upper limit on the number of times the sound content data 4 can be played can be selected from "every time" or "only once". If "Every Time" is selected, the sound content data 4 is reproduced when the content experiencer 2 enters the area 3. When "Only Once" is selected, the sound content data 4 is played only once. Specifically, for example, the sound content data 4 is played only once in total from the time when the application program related to the present technology is started until the time when the application program is stopped. Alternatively, for example, a predetermined number of times may be set as the upper limit of the number of times of playback. In this case, the playback control unit 11 of the viewer terminal 6 counts the number of times of playback when playing back the sound content data 4. When the counted number of times of playback reaches the upper limit of the number of times of playback, control is executed to stop playback. The number of times of playback is counted cumulatively, for example, while an application program related to the present technology is being executed. Furthermore, when the viewing history of the tour is cleared within the application program, the count of the number of times of playback is reset to 0.

[0104] The repeat setting field 69 is an item for making settings related to repeat playback of the sound content data 4. As shown in Fig. 8, in this embodiment, "no" or "yes" for repeat playback can be selected. If "none" is selected, the sound content data 4 is reproduced only once each time the content experiencer 2 enters the area 3. If "Yes" is selected, the sound content data 4 is played back in an unlimited loop while the content experiencer 2 is in the area 3. Alternatively, for example, a predetermined number of times may be set as the number of repeat playbacks. In this case, the playback control unit 11 of the viewer terminal 6 counts the number of playbacks when playing back the sound content data 4. When the counted number of playbacks reaches the upper limit of the number of playbacks, control is executed to stop the playback. The number of playbacks is counted cumulatively while the content experiencer 2 remains located in the area 3. When the content experiencer 2 leaves the area 3, the count of the number of playbacks is reset to 0.

[0105] The fade-in / out setting field 70 is an item for making settings related to fade-in and fade-out. For example, four setting items, "fade in / out," "fade in only," "fade out only," and "no setting," are arranged in a pull-down menu and are selected by the creator 5. When "Fade in / out" is selected, the playback control unit 11 executes a fade-in process when starting playback of the sound content data 4. Specifically, the volume gradually increases from 0, thereby starting playback of the sound content data 4. Also, the playback control unit 11 executes a fade-out process when stopping playback of the sound content data 4. Specifically, the volume gradually decreases and finally reaches 0, thereby stopping playback of the sound content data 4. When "fade-in only" is selected, the playback control unit 11 executes only the fade-in process. When "fade out only" is selected, the playback control unit 11 executes only the fade out process. If "No Setting" is selected, the fade-in and fade-out processes are not performed, and normal playback is performed.

[0106] The playback stop condition setting field 71 is an item for setting a condition for stopping playback of the sound content data 4. As shown in Fig. 8, in this embodiment, "outside area" or "end of file" can be selected by using a radio button as the condition for stopping playback. If "outside area" is selected, when the content experiencer 2 leaves the area 3, the reproduction of the sound content data 4 is stopped. If "end of file" is selected, playback will stop when the audio data set as sound content data 4 has been played up to the end.

[0107] Furthermore, when sound content data 4 having a higher priority than the set sound content data 4 is being played back, the volume of the set sound content data 4 may be specified. Additionally, the detailed setting GUI 54 allows the creator 5 to make various settings related to the area 3. This makes it possible to create a sound content map 1 that is in line with the creator 5's intentions. The setting items described above are merely examples, and the specific configuration of the detailed setting GUI 54 is not limited.

[0108] FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram for explaining type information and priority in the first embodiment. 9, a plurality of layers 17 are set as type information. Specifically, a speech layer 17a, a background music layer 17b, and an environmental sound layer 17c are set. In this embodiment, speech layer 17a, which has the first priority, is associated with speech (sound content data 4 classified as speech) by detail setting unit 45. That is, area 3 in which speech is desired to be placed is placed on speech layer 17a. Furthermore, BGM (sound content data 4 classified as BGM) is associated with a BGM layer 17b having a second priority different from the first priority. That is, the area 3 in which BGM is desired to be placed is placed on the BGM layer 17b. Furthermore, an environmental sound layer 17c having a third priority different from the first priority and the second priority is associated with the environmental sound (sound content data 4 classified as environmental sound). That is, the area 3 in which the environmental sound is to be placed is placed in the environmental sound layer 17c. In this way, different priorities (first to third priorities) may be set for the three different layers 17.

[0109] In this embodiment, the first priority is set as the highest priority, the second priority is set as a priority lower than the first priority, and the third priority is set as a priority lower than the second priority. Therefore, a speech layer 17a with a first priority is associated with speech, a background music layer 17b with a second priority lower than the first priority is associated with background music, and an environmental sound layer 17c with a third priority lower than the second priority is associated with environmental sounds (sound content data 4 classified as environmental sounds). That is, the speech layer has the highest priority, followed by the BGM layer and the environmental sound layer in that order, and each layer 17 is associated with a corresponding type of sound content data 4. Of course, the order of priority is not limited. For example, the priority may be defined in the reverse order, such that the environmental sound layer has the highest priority, followed by the background music layer and the speech layer. Additionally, the creator 5 can arbitrarily set the priority in consideration of the type of sound content data 4, etc.

[0110] In the example shown in FIG. 9, three circular regions 3 associated with utterance 4 are arranged in the uppermost utterance layer 17a. Furthermore, the second BGM layer 17b from the top has three circular regions 3 associated with BGM. Furthermore, in the environmental sound layer 17c, which is the third from the top, three circular areas 3 associated with environmental sounds are arranged. For example, the playback control based on the priority of each layer as described above is executed.

[0111] In this embodiment, the playback control unit 11 controls the volume according to the priority. That is, similar to the example shown in FIG. 4, when high-priority sound content data 4 is being played back in the overlapping area, the playback is controlled so that the volume of low-priority sound content data 4 is reduced.

[0112] The speech layer has a higher priority than the background music layer, so when speech is played back, the volume of the background music is controlled to be low. In this case, the speech layer corresponds to layer A (first type information) in Fig. 3. The background music layer corresponds to layer B (second type information). Speech often contains important information such as lines and narration, and it is often desirable to play it back in a way that is easy for the content experiencer 2 to hear. On the other hand, background music often contains relatively unimportant information, such as music used to create the atmosphere of a scene. As shown in FIG. 9, by setting the priority of the speech layer higher than the priority of the background music layer, speech can be heard clearly, making it possible to recognize important information.

[0113] The speech layer has a higher priority than the environmental sound layer, so when speech is played back, the volume of the environmental sound is controlled to be low. In this case, the speech layer corresponds to layer A (first type information) in Fig. 3. The environmental sound layer corresponds to layer B (second type information). Sound content data 4 classified as environmental sounds also often contains relatively unimportant information, such as sound effects used to create the atmosphere of a scene, etc. By setting the priority of the speech layer higher than the priority of the environmental sound layer, speech can be heard clearly, making it possible to recognize important information.

[0114] The BGM layer has a higher priority than the environmental sound layer, so when BGM is played, the volume of the environmental sound is controlled to be low. In this case, the BGM layer corresponds to layer A (first type information) in Fig. 3. The environmental sound layer corresponds to layer B (second type information). By setting the priority of the BGM layer higher than the priority of the environmental sound layer, it becomes possible to fully express the atmosphere of a scene, etc., through music. It also becomes possible to fully enjoy theme songs, etc.

[0115] 10 and 11 are schematic diagrams showing an example of volume control based on priority. FIG. 10 shows the route of the content experiencer 2. 10, multiple regions 3 are arranged on the map information 18. Specifically, a circular region 59 is arranged on the speech layer, a rectangular region 60 is arranged on the background music layer, and a polygonal region 61 is arranged on the environmental sound layer. Circular region 59 placed on the speech layer is contained within rectangular region 60 placed on the background music layer. Rectangular region 60 placed on the background music layer is contained within polygonal region 61 placed on the environmental sound layer. Therefore, circular region 59 placed on the speech layer is also contained within polygonal region 61 placed on the environmental sound layer.

[0116] It is assumed that the content experiencer 2 moves along the movement route shown in FIG. First, at point A, the sound enters a polygonal area 61 arranged on the environmental sound layer. Next, the area 61 arranged in the environmental sound layer is moved, and at point B, it enters the rectangular area 60 arranged in the BGM layer. Next, the rectangular area 60 arranged on the BGM layer is moved, and at point C, it enters the circular area 59 arranged on the speech layer. Next, the circular area 59 arranged on the speech layer is moved, and at point D, the circular area 59 arranged on the speech layer is exited. Next, the rectangular area 60 placed on the BGM layer is moved, and at point E, the rectangular area 60 placed on the BGM layer is exited. Finally, the polygonal region 61 placed on the environmental sound layer is moved, and at point F, the polygonal region 61 placed on the environmental sound layer is exited.

[0117] Therefore, the content experiencer 2 moves through the following areas in order. (1) Polygonal area 61 (between point A and point B) placed on the environmental sound layer (2) The overlapping area (between points B and C) between the polygonal area 61 placed on the environmental sound layer and the rectangular area 60 placed on the BGM layer. (3) The overlapping area (between points C and D) between the polygonal area 61 placed on the environmental sound layer, the rectangular area 60 placed on the background music layer, and the circular area 59 placed on the speech layer. (4) The overlapping area (between points D and E) between the polygonal area 61 placed on the environmental sound layer and the rectangular area 60 placed on the BGM layer. (5) Polygonal area 61 (between point E and point F) placed on the environmental sound layer

[0118] FIG. 11 shows a graph of the volume corresponding to the position of the content experiencer 2. FIG. 11 shows graphs for speech, background music, and environmental sounds. As shown in FIG. 11, when the content experiencer 2 is located between points A and B, only the environmental sound is reproduced at a predetermined volume.

[0119] When the content experiencer 2 is located between points B and C, environmental sounds and background music are played back. Since the priority of the environmental sound is lower than the priority of the background music, the playback is controlled so that the volume of the environmental sound is lower. In other words, the volume of the environmental sound is lower than between points A and B.

[0120] When the content experiencer 2 is located between points C and D, environmental sounds, background music, and speech are reproduced. Since the priority of the BGM is lower than the priority of the speech, the playback is controlled so that the volume of the BGM is lower. In other words, the volume of the BGM is lower than between points B and C. The priority of environmental sounds is lower than that of speech. The priority of environmental sounds is also lower than that of background music. Therefore, playback is controlled to reduce the volume of environmental sounds. In other words, the volume of background music is controlled to be the same volume as between points B and C.

[0121] When the content experiencer 2 is located between points D and E, environmental sounds and background music are played back. As in the case between point B and point C, the playback is controlled so that the volume of the environmental sound is reduced. In other words, the volume of the environmental sound is controlled to the same volume as between point C and point D. The volume of the background music also returns to normal and is controlled at the same volume as between points B and C.

[0122] When the content experiencer 2 is located between points E and F, only the environmental sound is reproduced at a predetermined volume. The volume of the ambient sound will return to normal and be controlled at the same volume as between points A and B.

[0123] As described above, when a plurality of sound content data 4 with different type information are played back, the priorities of the sound content data 4 are compared, and the volume of the sound content data 4 with the lower priority is controlled to be lower. 11, the sound content data 4 at the top is played at a predetermined volume (maximum reference volume). All the sound content data 4 at the bottom are played at a volume lower than the predetermined volume (minimum reference volume). That is, a maximum reference volume and a minimum reference volume are set, and if it is at the top, it is played at the maximum reference volume, and if it is not at the top, it is played at the minimum reference volume. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the priorities may be compared among a plurality of sound content data 4 that are not at the highest level, and playback may be controlled to further create a difference in volume. For example, between points C and D in Fig. 11, the volume of the environmental sound may be controlled to be lower than the volume of the background music.

[0124] FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing an example of processing related to setting of the area 3 and layers. The map / area display unit 43 displays the map information 18 on the area setting GUI 52 (step 101).

[0125] Creator 5 selects a layer to be associated with region 3 (step 102). The selection of a layer is performed by a type selection button 55 generated by the layer selection unit 42. When the creator 5 selects a type selection button 55, the layer selection unit 42 selects a layer corresponding to the selected type selection button 55, and the layer is acquired by the map / area display unit 43. The selection of a layer by the layer selection unit 42 corresponds to the generation of type information.

[0126] The creator 5 selects the shape of the area 3 to be drawn on the map information 18 (step 103). The shape of the area 3 is selected, for example, by using a shape selection button. For example, when the creator 5 presses the shape selection button, shape information of the selected shape is acquired by the map / area display unit 43. The map / area display unit 43 executes processing related to drawing the area 3 based on the shape information.

[0127] Creator 5 draws area 3 (step 104). When the creator 5 draws the area 3, the map / area display unit 43 displays the area 3 superimposed on the map information 18. In addition, the position information of the area 3 is calculated.

[0128] The position information and layer of area 3 are saved as new content area information (step 105). The map / area display unit 43 associates the location information of the area 3 with the layer, and the information is temporarily stored in the storage unit 40 of the information processing device 9 as layer area information.

[0129] If there is an area 3 to be newly created (YES in step 106) and the creator 5 specifies the area 3, a layer is selected again. If there is no new area 3 to be created (NO in step 106), the process ends.

[0130] FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing an example of processing related to setting of the sound content data 4. FIG. 13 shows an example of how to set sound content data 4 for area 3, but similar processing can also be used to set layers, area names 62, playback order, etc.

[0131] The area sound list display unit 44 acquires layer area information from the storage unit 40 (step 201). For example, when area 3 displayed on the area setting GUI 52 is selected, the layer area information corresponding to the area 3 is acquired.

[0132] The area name 62 is displayed on the area sound list setting GUI 53 (step 202). The area sound list display unit 44 acquires the area names 62 associated with the area 3 based on the acquired layer area information. The acquired area names 62 are displayed as a list. The area name 62 and a type information icon 63 indicating the layer may be displayed at the same time.

[0133] The creator 5 selects the area 3 to be set (step 203). The creator 5 designates the area 3 to be set by selecting an area name 62 displayed on the area sound setting GUI 53. Once the designation is made, various detailed information about the area 3 is displayed on the detail setting GUI 54.

[0134] The sound content data 4 is set for the selected area 3 (step 204). The creator 5 designates an audio file as sound content data 4 in a sound file setting field 66 on the detailed setting GUI 54 .

[0135] The sound content data 4 is linked and stored in the area 3 (step 205). The detail setting unit 45 stores the specified sound content data 4 in association with the area 3 and layer stored in the storage unit 40. In other words, the content area information is stored.

[0136] If there is an area 3 in which sound content data 4 should be set (YES in step 206) and the creator 5 specifies the sound content data 4, the area 3 is selected again on the area sound setting GUI 53. If there is no area 3 in which to set the sound content data 4 (NO in step 206), the process ends.

[0137] As described above, in the content providing system 100 according to this embodiment, the area 3, the sound content data 4, and the type information (layer) indicating the type of playback control are associated with each other and set as content area information, thereby enabling a new user experience to be realized.

[0138] By applying this technology, a creator 5 can create a sound content map 1. When a content user 2 enters an area 3 arranged on the sound content map 1, sound content data 4, such as narration, background music, sound effects, etc. corresponding to a region or facility, is played back. Priorities are set for the sound content data 4, enabling various playback controls, such as increasing the volume of the sound content data 4 in descending order of priority. As a result, a new, high-quality user experience can be realized.

[0139] <Second embodiment> The second embodiment will be described in detail with respect to the content providing system 100 shown in FIG. The following explanation will mainly focus on the differences from the first embodiment, and explanations of parts similar to the configuration and operation of the content providing system 100 described in the first embodiment will be omitted or simplified.

[0140] In this embodiment, sound content data 4 and type information are associated with an area other than area 3 specified by creator 5, and are set as content area information. Specifically, when area 3 is specified by creator 5, sound content data 4 and type information are associated with an external area that is an area outside the specified area 3, and are set as content area information. Hereinafter, the area 3 designated by the creator 5 will be referred to as the area sound 74 . The area outside the area 3 designated by the creator 5 is called a tour sound 75 . That is, the tour sound 75 is an area outside the area sound 74 .

[0141] For example, the tour sound 75 is set to an area corresponding to the entire map information 18, excluding the part corresponding to the area sound 74. For example, assume that map information 18 of the entire Chiyoda ward in Tokyo is acquired as map information 18. In this case, among the areas 3 of the entire Chiyoda ward, areas 3 for which no area sound 74 is set correspond to tour sound 75. In this case, the sound content data 4 associated with the tour sound 75 is played back the moment the content experiencer 2 enters Chiyoda Ward. Of course, the valid range of the area setting may be set for the acquired map information 18. For example, in this case, the area outside the area 3 specified by the creator 5 within the valid range becomes the tour sound 75.

[0142] [Tour Sound] FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram for explaining the tour sound 75. 14, layer A, layer B, and layer C are set as type information. Area sounds 74 and tour sounds 75 are set for each layer. In this embodiment, the priority is set in the order of layer A, layer B, and layer C.

[0143] When the creator 5 designates an area 3 , the area 3 is set as an area sound 74 , and at the same time, the entire area outside the area 3 is set as one tour sound 75 . For example, as shown in Fig. 14, two circular areas 3 are specified in layer A. These two circular areas 3 are set as area sounds 74a. Four rectangular areas 3 are specified in layer B. These four rectangular areas 3 are set as area sounds 74b. One rectangular area 3 is specified in layer C. This one rectangular area 3 is set as area sound 74c.

[0144] 14, the tour sound 75 is set in an area where none of the area sounds 74 exists. That is, an area where none of the area sounds 74a, 74b, and 74c is placed is set as the tour sound 75. As with the area sounds 74, type information is associated with the tour sounds 75. In this embodiment, layer A is associated with tour sound 75a. Layer B is associated with tour sound 75b. Layer C is associated with tour sound 75c. Of course, the tour sound 75a, the tour sound 75b, and the tour sound 75c each become the area 3 having the same shape.

[0145] For these tour sounds 75a to 75c, sound content data 4 and type information (layer) can be associated with each other and set as content area information.

[0146] By setting the tour sound 75, it becomes possible to play back the sound content data 4 according to the position of the content experiencer 2 even in areas other than the area 3 specified by the creator 5. Furthermore, by defining the priority by layer, it becomes possible to realize the various playback controls described above for the sound content data 4 of each layer. This makes it possible to provide a high-quality, new user experience. For example, the theme song of the sound content map 1 can be associated with the tour sound 75. This allows the content experiencer 2 to become immersed in the virtual content and further enjoy the sound content map 1. Of course, the application is not limited to this. Furthermore, since the tour sound 75 is set in an area where no area sound 74 exists, it is possible to place speech, background music, and environmental sounds in the tour sound 75 without interfering with the playback of audio data (speech, background music, and environmental sounds) in the area sound 74. The tour sound 75 corresponds to an embodiment of an area other than the area designated by the user according to the present technology.

[0147] [Example of a content provision system configuration] FIG. 15 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of a content providing system 100 according to the second embodiment. In the example configuration shown in FIG. 15, the configuration and operation of the information processing device 9 other than the tour sound list display unit 78 are the same as those described in the first embodiment, and therefore description thereof will be omitted.

[0148] The tour sound list display unit 78 is realized by, for example, a processor included in the control unit 41 of the information processing device 9 executing a program according to the present technology. The tour sound list display unit 78 generates a tour sound setting GUI 79 .

[0149] [GUI for settings] 16 and 17 are schematic diagrams showing an example of the setting GUI 51 in the second embodiment. As shown in FIG. 16, the setting GUI 51 includes an area setting GUI 52, an area sound / tour sound setting GUI 82, and a detailed setting GUI 54, which are arranged in this order from the left side and are displayed together as a single GUI.

[0150] The area setting GUI 52 displays the map information 18, a type selection button 55, and an area 3. In this embodiment, either an area sound 74 or a tour sound 75 is displayed as the area 3 . 16, tour sound 75 is displayed as a patterned area 3 on map information 18. That is, the polygonal portion without a pattern corresponds to the area that combines area sound 74a, area sound 74b, and area sound 75c specified by creator 5. It is possible to switch the display of the area sound 74 or the tour sound 75. Specifically, the display setting is switched by pressing a switching button or the like (not shown). For example, creator 5 may draw area sound 74 when the display setting is set to area sound 74, and then switch the display setting to display tour sound 75, allowing creator 5 to check the shape of the tour sound 75 that has been placed. The display setting may be switched in conjunction with the selection of an area sound tab 83 and a tour sound tab 84 of an area sound / tour sound setting GUI 82, which will be described later. These processes are realized by the map / area display unit 43, the area sound list display unit 44, and the tour sound list display unit 78 each cooperating to obtain various information related to display settings.

[0151] The map / area display unit 43 associates the tour sound 75 with the sound content data 4 and the layer, and sets the content area information. Specifically, first, the creator 5 presses the type selection button 55 to draw the area sound 74. As in the first embodiment, the map / area display unit 43 stores the layer area information, which is linked to the position information and type information of the drawn area sound 74, in the storage unit 40 of the information processing device 9. Next, the map / area display unit 43 calculates the location information of the tour sound 75 based on the location information of the area sound 74. For example, the longitude range and latitude range of the tour sound 75 are calculated as the range obtained by excluding the longitude range and latitude range of the area sound 74 (the combined area of ​​the area sounds 74a, 74b, and 75c) from the longitude range and latitude range of the entire map information 18. Each layer is linked to the calculated position information of the tour sound 75 and is stored in the storage unit 40 as layer area information.

[0152] A list of area names 62 is displayed in the area sound / tour sound setting GUI 82. As shown in FIG. 16, the area sound / tour sound setting GUI 82 has an area sound tab 83 and a tour sound tab 84 arranged therein. When the creator 5 selects the area sound tab 83, the area sound setting GUI 53 is displayed, similarly to the first embodiment. Furthermore, when the creator 5 selects the tour sound tab 84, a tour sound setting GUI 79 is displayed. The display of the tour sound setting GUI 79 is controlled by a tour sound list display unit 78. Specifically, the tour sound list display unit 78 acquires layer area information from the storage unit 40. Furthermore, based on the acquired layer area information, the set tour sounds 75 are extracted, and the tour sound names 85 linked to the tour sounds 75 are displayed as a list. In the example shown in FIG. 16, the creator 5 selects the tour sound tab 84, and the tour sound setting GUI 79 is displayed.

[0153] In the example shown in FIG. 16, three tour sound names 85, tour (speech), tour (BGM), and tour (environmental sounds), are displayed as area names 62 corresponding to the set tour sounds 75, in this order from the top. In this embodiment, the type information also includes a speech layer, a background music layer, and an environmental sound layer. The speech layer is associated with a tour (speech). Similarly, the background music layer is associated with a tour (BGM), and the environmental sound layer is associated with a tour (environmental sound). In other words, three Tour Sound names 85 are displayed, one for each layer. The tour sound name 85 can be changed by the creator 5 operating the space name setting field 64 of the detailed setting GUI 54 .

[0154] In this embodiment, when the add button 86 of the tour sound 75 is pressed, the setting of the tour sound 75 is executed, and the display of the tour sound name 75 is executed. For example, when the area sound 74 is drawn by the creator 5, the tour sound 75 is not set and the tour sound name 85 is not displayed. The tour sound 75 is not set and displayed until the creator 5 presses the add button 86 displayed on the tour sound setting GUI 79.

[0155] As the addition buttons 86, three types of buttons, "Add new speech", "Add new BGM", and "Add new environmental sound", are displayed on the tour sound setting GUI 79 as shown in FIG. 16, when three types of tour sounds 75 have already been set, it is not possible to select the three types of add buttons 86. In this case, the add buttons 86 may be displayed as inactive, for example, in gray. Of course, if the tour sound 75 is set, the add button 86 does not have to be displayed. If a tour sound 75 has not been set for each layer, the add button 86 is displayed as active for the layer for which no tour sound 75 has been set. The active add button 86 can be selected by the creator 5, allowing the tour sound 75 to be set.

[0156] The creator 5 can select each tour sound name 85 displayed in the tour sound setting GUI 79 . In the example shown in FIG. 16, tour (utterance) is selected, and the tour sound name 85 is highlighted by being enclosed in a frame. When a tour sound name 85 is selected, the corresponding tour sound 75 may be displayed on the map information 18 of the area setting GUI 52, as shown in FIG. Furthermore, the tour sound name 85 and the type information icon 63 indicating the layer may be displayed simultaneously, similar to the area sound setting GUI 53. Furthermore, each tour sound name 85 may be divided into groups. These processes are realized by the tour sound list display unit 78 and the map / area display unit 43 each acquiring various pieces of information related to the tour sound 75 in cooperation with each other. In addition, the display contents and operations of the tour sound setting GUI 79 are not limited.

[0157] By displaying the tour sound setting GUI 79, the creator 5 can easily grasp the tour sounds 75 that are currently placed. In addition, because the tour sound names 85 are listed, it is possible to easily manage the tour sounds 75 that are placed and the type information of each tour sound 75. This makes it possible to create the sound content map 1 with good workability.

[0158] The detailed setting GUI 54 displays various information related to the area 3. For example, when the creator 5 selects a tour sound 75 on the map information 18, detailed information about the tour sound 75 is displayed in the detail setting GUI 54. Alternatively, when a tour sound name 85 displayed in the tour sound setting GUI 79 is selected, detailed information may be displayed in the detail setting GUI 54. These processes are realized by the tour sound list display unit 78, the map / area display unit 43, and the detail setting unit 45 each cooperatively acquiring various pieces of information about the tour sound 75. 16, the detailed setting GUI 54 displays a space name setting field 64, a space category setting field 65, a sound file setting field 66, a sequential setting field 67, a playback count setting field 68, a repeat setting field 69, a fade-in / out setting field 70, and a playback stop condition setting field 71. The contents of each field are the same as those in the first embodiment, so a description thereof will be omitted. In Fig. 16, a state in which tour (speech) is selected in the tour sound setting GUI 79 and the detail setting GUI 54 are displayed. In Fig. 17A, a state in which tour (BGM) is selected and the detail setting GUI 54 are displayed. In Fig. 17B, a state in which tour (ambient sound) is selected and the detail setting GUI 54 are displayed. In each example, there is no difference in the items displayed in the detail setting GUI 54. The creator 5 can perform various detailed settings regarding the tour sound 75 by operating each item in the detailed setting GUI 54 .

[0159] 18 and 19 are schematic diagrams showing an example of volume control based on priority. FIG. 18 shows the route of movement of the content experiencer 2. 18, multiple tour sounds 75 are arranged on the map information 18. Specifically, three types of tour sounds 75 of the same shape are arranged on each of the speech layer, the background music layer, and the environmental sound layer. Therefore, the tour sounds 75 overlap each other. Each of the three tour sounds 75 is associated with sound content data 4. In this embodiment, the tour sounds 75 of each layer are associated with speech, background music, and environmental sounds, respectively. In each layer, the area sound 74 is not associated with the sound content data 4. In this way, it is also possible to associate the sound content data 4 with only the tour sound 75.

[0160] It is assumed that the content experiencer 2 moves along the movement route shown in FIG. First, at point A on the three tour sounds 75, an application program according to the present technology is started. Next, the vehicle moves over three tour sounds 75 and enters three area sounds 74 at point B. Next, the robot moves over the area where the three area sounds 74 are combined, and at point C, it again enters the three tour sounds 75 . Finally, the application program according to the present technology ends at point D after moving over the three tour sounds 75.

[0161] Therefore, the content experiencer 2 moves through the following areas in order. (1) The overlapping area of ​​the three Tour Sounds 75 (between point A and point B) (2) The area consisting of the three Area Sounds 74 (between points B and C) (3) The overlapping area of ​​the three Tour Sounds 75 (between points C and D)

[0162] FIG. 19 shows a graph of the volume corresponding to the position of the content experiencer 2. In this embodiment, the volume is controlled based on the priority. As in the first embodiment, the priority is set in the order of highest to lowest for the speech layer, BGM layer, and environmental sound layer.

[0163] 19, when the content experiencer 2 is located between points A and B, the speech with the highest priority is played at a loud volume. The background music and environmental sounds with lower priorities are played at a quieter volume. When the content experiencer 2 is located between points B and C, no sound is played back.

[0164] When the content experiencer 2 enters the three tour sounds 75 again from point C, the speech is played back at a loud volume, as was the case between points A and B. Furthermore, the background music and environmental sounds are played back at a low volume.

[0165] 19, the playback of the speech ends while the content experiencer 2 moves between points C and D. For example, repeat playback is not set for the speech, and playback is completed up to the end of the audio data, and playback ends. In such a case, the playback control unit 11 of the viewer terminal 6 plays the background music at a loud volume in the overlapping area if no speech is being played. 19, the background music is played at a low volume between points C and D until the speech playback ends. Once the speech playback ends, the volume of the background music is increased and the background music is played at the same volume as the speech playback. Environmental sounds have the lowest priority, so they are kept playing at a low volume. The background music and environmental sounds are played until the application program is stopped at point D.

[0166] When a sound content data 4 with a high priority is being reproduced, the volume of the other sound content data 4 is controlled to be low so that the content experiencer 2 can easily hear the sound content data 4. However, when the reproduction of the high-priority sound content data 4 is completed, there is no need to control the volume of the other sound content data 4 to a low volume. In fact, if the volume is controlled to a low volume, the content experiencer 2 may have difficulty hearing the sound content data 4. Therefore, as in this embodiment, when the reproduction of the sound content data 4 with high priority is completed, the volume of the sound content data 4 with low priority is increased. This makes it easier for the content experiencer 2 to hear the sound content data 4, making it possible to achieve a high-quality user experience.

[0167] As in the first embodiment, the playback content of the low-priority sound content data 4 may be switched depending on whether or not to play the high-priority sound content data 4. In addition, the content of the playback control based on priority is not limited.

[0168] FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing an example of a process for setting the tour sound 75 and the sound content data 4. FIG. 20 shows an example of how to set sound content data 4 for a tour sound 75, but similar processing can also be used to set layers, area names 62, playback order, etc.

[0169] First, the creator 5 selects the tour sound tab 84 on the area sound / tour sound setting GUI 82 (step 301).

[0170] The tour sound list display unit 78 acquires layer area information from the storage unit 40 (step 302). Specifically, all layer area information of the speech layer, BGM layer, or environmental sound layer that is stored in the storage unit 40 is acquired.

[0171] The tour sound name 85 is displayed on the tour sound setting GUI 79 (step 303). Based on the acquired layer area information, the tour sound list display unit 78 acquires tour sound names 85 linked to the tour sounds 75. The acquired tour sound names 85 are then displayed as a list.

[0172] If the tour sound 75 of the layer that the creator 5 wants to set is not displayed (NO in step 304), a new tour sound 75 of that layer is created (step 305). Specifically, when the creator 5 presses the add button 86, a new tour sound 75 is created.

[0173] The newly created tour sound 75 is saved (step 306). The map / area display unit 43 associates the tour sound 75 with the layer, and stores the association in the storage unit 40 as layer area information. Once the layer area information is saved, the layer area information is acquired again, and processing such as displaying the tour sound name 75 is executed.

[0174] If the tour sound 75 of the layer that the creator 5 wants to set is displayed (YES in step 304), the creator 5 selects the tour sound name 85 to be set (step 307).

[0175] The sound content data 4 is set for the selected tour sound 75 (step 308). The creator 5 designates an audio file as sound content data 4 in a sound file setting field 66 on the detailed setting GUI 54 .

[0176] The sound content data 4 is linked to the tour sound 75 and saved (step 309). The detail setting unit 45 stores the specified sound content data 4 in association with the tour sound 75 and layer stored in the storage unit 40. In this way, the content area information is stored.

[0177] If there is a tour sound 75 for which sound content data 4 should be set (YES in step 310) and the creator 5 specifies the sound content data 4, the layer area information is obtained again and processing such as displaying the tour sound name 85 is performed. If there is no tour sound 75 for which sound content data 4 should be set (NO in step 310), the process ends.

[0178] <Other embodiments> The present technology is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various other embodiments can be realized.

[0179] The playback start condition for the sound content data 4 associated with a specific area sound 74 may be set based on whether or not there is a playback history in other area sounds 74. For example, when a content experiencer 2 enters area A, if the content experiencer 2 has previously entered area B and listened to sound content data b associated with area B, sound content data a associated with area A will be played. On the other hand, if the content experiencer 2 has never entered area B and has not listened to sound content data b, sound content data a will not be played. By setting in this way, it becomes possible to determine whether or not a specific area sound 74 can be reproduced based on the reproduction history of other area sounds 74 . For example, in a role-playing game or the like, it is possible to impose a condition on the content experiencer 2 that the sound content data 4 cannot be heard even if the user enters a predetermined area sound 74 unless the user goes to a predetermined location (area). As a result, it is possible to realize more interesting content with a more game-like feel, and to provide a high-quality user experience. The playback start conditions are set on the GUI 54 for detailed settings, for example.

[0180] The created sound content map 1 may be able to be saved (imported) and read (exported). For example, the creator 5 presses a save button (not shown) on the setting GUI 51. When the save button is pressed, the created sound content map 1 is saved in the storage unit of the content providing server 8. Specifically, various pieces of information related to the sound content map 1 transmitted from the communication unit 37 of the information processing device 9 are received by the communication unit 30 of the content providing server 8 via the network 10. The content input / output unit 33 stores the data received by the communication unit 30 in the storage unit 40. For example, map information 18, content area information, etc. are stored. The sound content map 1 may be read into the setting GUI 51 by pressing a read button or the like.

[0181] It may also be possible for the creator 5 to import a sound content map 1 created by a person other than the creator 5. In this case, the content providing server 8 can communicate with multiple information processing devices 9. For example, the content input / output unit 33 exports a sound content map 1 created by creator A from the information processing device A owned by creator A to the content providing server 8. Thereafter, the sound content map 1 is imported from the content providing server 8 by the information processing device B owned by the creator B. This allows, for example, a beginner creator 5 with little experience in creating sound content maps 1 to refer to a sound content map 1 created by a more experienced creator 5.

[0182] The playback interval may be set on the detailed setting GUI 54. For example, the detailed setting section 45 displays a playback interval setting field. The reproduction interval is the time from when the reproduction of the sound content data 4 ends until the reproduction of the next sound content data 4 starts. This makes it possible to adjust the interval at which sound effects are played back, for example, and to realistically create the atmosphere of the facility, etc.

[0183] Ducking-related settings may be made available on the detailed setting GUI 54. Ducking is a process of suppressing the volume of the sound content data 4 that was originally being played back when other sound content data 4 is being played back. That is, for example, when sound content data 4 with a high priority is played back, settings are made for the volume and the like of sound content data 4 with a low priority. Of course, it may be possible to set other items than volume, such as tone and positioning.

[0184] To acquire the location information of the content experiencer 2, a beacon may be used. For example, a beacon is placed in a facility, etc. When a content experiencer 2 approaches the beacon, a signal emitted by the beacon is acquired by the communication unit 21 of the viewer terminal 6. Based on the received signal, location information (latitude information / longitude information) of the content experiencer 2 is calculated. For example, by placing beacons in facilities or areas with poor GPS accuracy, it is possible to compensate for the low accuracy of the calculated location information. Furthermore, in the vicinity of a beacon, calculation of location information based on the beacon signal and calculation of location information based on GPS may be performed simultaneously. Of course, calculation of location information based on GPS may be stopped in the vicinity of a beacon. This allows the position information of the content experiencer 2 to be detected with high accuracy.

[0185] 1 may be installed in an information processing device 9. Alternatively, a portable information processing device 9 may be used, and may be equipped with some or all of the functions of the viewer terminal 6. For example, the information processing device 9 may be provided with the playback control unit 11 shown in FIG. That is, the content providing system 100 may be realized by a plurality of computers or by a single computer.

[0186] FIG. 21 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of a computer 88 that can realize the viewer terminal 6, the content providing server 8, and the information processing device 9. The computer 88 includes a CPU 89, a ROM 90, a RAM 91, an input / output interface 92, and a bus 93 that interconnects these components. The input / output interface 92 is connected to a display unit 94, an input unit 95, a storage unit 96, a communication unit 97, a drive unit 98, and the like. The display unit 94 is a display device that uses, for example, a liquid crystal display, an electroluminescent display, etc. The input unit 95 is, for example, a keyboard, a pointing device, a touch panel, or other operating device. When the input unit 95 includes a touch panel, the touch panel can be integrated with the display unit 94. The storage unit 96 is a non-volatile storage device such as a HDD, flash memory, or other solid-state memory. The drive unit 98 is a device capable of driving a removable storage medium 99 such as an optical storage medium or a magnetic recording tape. The communication unit 97 is a modem, router, or other communication device that can be connected to a LAN, WAN, or the like and that communicates with other devices. The communication unit 97 may communicate either wired or wirelessly. The communication unit 97 is often used separately from the computer 88. Information processing by the computer 88 having the above-described hardware configuration is realized by cooperation between software stored in the storage unit 96, the ROM 90, or the like, and the hardware resources of the computer 88. Specifically, the information processing method according to the present technology is realized by loading a program constituting the software stored in the ROM 90, or the like, into the RAM 91 and executing the program. The program is installed in the computer 88 via, for example, a removable recording medium 99. Alternatively, the program may be installed in the computer 88 via a global network or the like. Alternatively, any non-transitory storage medium that can be read by the computer 88 may be used.

[0187] An information processing method according to the present technology may be executed by a plurality of computers connected in a communicable manner via a network or the like working together, and an information processing system and information processing device according to the present technology may be constructed. That is, the information processing method according to the present technology can be executed not only in a computer system configured by a single computer, but also in a computer system in which multiple computers operate in conjunction with each other. In this disclosure, a system refers to a collection of multiple components (devices, modules (components), etc.), regardless of whether all the components are in the same housing. Therefore, multiple devices housed in separate housings and connected via a network, and a single device housed in a single housing with multiple modules, are both systems. The execution of the information processing method according to the present technology by a computer system includes both cases where, for example, acquisition of map information, setting of content area information, superimposed display of areas, etc. are executed by a single computer, and cases where each process is executed by a different computer. Furthermore, the execution of each process by a specific computer includes having another computer execute part or all of the process and obtaining the results. That is, the information processing method according to the present technology can also be applied to a cloud computing configuration in which a single function is shared and processed jointly by multiple devices via a network.

[0188] The configurations of the content providing system, sound content map, viewer terminal, content providing server, information processing device, various GUIs, and processing flows described with reference to the drawings are merely one embodiment, and can be modified as desired without departing from the spirit of the present technology. In other words, any other configurations, algorithms, etc. for implementing the present technology may be adopted.

[0189] In this disclosure, when the word "abbreviated" is used, this is used merely to facilitate understanding of the explanation, and there is no special meaning in whether or not the word "abbreviated" is used. That is, in the present disclosure, concepts that define shape, size, positional relationship, state, etc., such as "center," "central," "uniform," "equal," "same," "orthogonal," "parallel," "symmetrical," "extended," "axial direction," "cylindrical," "cylindrical," "ring-shaped," and "annular," are concepts that include "substantially center," "substantially central," "substantially uniform," "substantially equal," "substantially the same," "substantially orthogonal," "substantially parallel," "substantially symmetrical," "substantially extended," "substantially axial direction," "substantially cylindrical," "substantially cylindrical," "substantially ring-shaped," "substantially annular," and the like. For example, this also includes states that fall within a specified range (for example, a range of ±10%) based on criteria such as "perfectly centered," "perfectly central," "perfectly uniform," "perfectly equal," "perfectly the same," "perfectly perpendicular," "perfectly parallel," "perfectly symmetrical," "perfectly extended," "perfectly axial," "perfectly cylindrical," "perfectly cylindrical," "perfectly ring-shaped," and "perfectly annular." Therefore, even if the word "abbreviated" is not added, the concept expressed by adding "abbreviated" may be included. Conversely, a state expressed by adding "abbreviated" does not exclude a complete state.

[0190] In this disclosure, expressions using "than", such as "greater than A" and "smaller than A", are expressions that comprehensively include both concepts that include equivalent to A and concepts that do not include equivalent to A. For example, "greater than A" is not limited to cases that do not include equivalent to A, but also includes "A or greater." Furthermore, "smaller than A" is not limited to "less than A" but also includes "A or less." When implementing the present technology, specific settings and the like may be appropriately adopted from the concepts included in "greater than A" and "smaller than A" so as to achieve the effects described above.

[0191] It is also possible to combine at least two of the features of the present technology described above. That is, the various features described in each embodiment may be arbitrarily combined without distinction between the embodiments. Furthermore, the various effects described above are merely examples and are not limiting, and other effects may also be achieved.

[0192] The present technology can also be configured as follows. (1) an acquisition unit for acquiring map information; a setting unit that associates an area set based on the map information, a content to be played, and type information indicating a type of playback control for the content to be played with each other, and sets the associated area as content area information; a playback control unit that controls playback of the content to be played back based on the type information; An information processing system comprising: (2) The information processing system according to (1), The playback control unit controls playback of the content to be played back based on the viewer's position relative to the area. Information processing system. (3) The information processing system according to (2), The playback control unit controls playback of the content to be played back in response to the viewer's entry into or exit from the area. Information processing system. (4) An information processing system according to any one of (1) to (3), The type information defines playback control in the overlapping areas of the content to be played back, the content being included in each of a plurality of pieces of content area information whose areas overlap each other. Information processing system. (5) The information processing system according to (4), The type information defines a priority regarding playback control of the content to be played back. Information processing system. (6) The information processing system according to (5), The type information defines a priority regarding at least one of control of a predetermined parameter, whether or not to play, and switching of the content to be played. Information processing system. (7) The information processing system according to (6), The content to be reproduced includes at least one of audio data and image data. Information processing system. (8) The information processing system according to (7), the type information includes first type information and second type information having a lower priority than the first type information, The playback control unit, in the overlapping area, playing the content to be played back associated with the first type information using a first control method; When the content to be reproduced associated with the second type information is being reproduced, the content to be reproduced associated with the second type information is reproduced by a second control method different from the first control method, and when the content to be reproduced associated with the first type information is not being reproduced, the content to be reproduced is reproduced by a third control method different from the second control method. Information processing system. (9) The information processing system according to (8), The third control method is the same as the first control method. Information processing system. (10) An information processing system according to any one of (7) to (9), the type information includes first type information and second type information having a lower priority than the first type information, The playback control unit restricts playback of the content to be played back associated with the second type information while the content to be played back associated with the first type information is being played back in the overlapping area. Information processing system. (11) An information processing system according to any one of (7) to (10), the type information includes first type information and second type information having a lower priority than the first type information, The playback control unit switches playback content of the playback target content associated with the second type information in the overlapping area in accordance with switching between playback and non-playback of the playback target content associated with the first type information. Information processing system. (12) An information processing system according to any one of (1) to (11), The setting unit associates the type information with the content to be played back in accordance with the type of the content to be played back. Information processing system. (13) The information processing system according to (12), the content to be reproduced is audio data, The type of the audio data includes at least one of speech, background music, and environmental sound. Information processing system. (14) The information processing system according to (13), The setting unit associates the type information with a first priority with the utterance, associates the type information with a second priority different from the first priority with the background music, and associates the type information with a third priority different from each of the first priority and the second priority with the environmental sound. Information processing system. (15) An information processing system according to any one of (1) to (14), 2. The information processing system according to claim 1, The setting unit associates the content to be played with the type information and sets the content area information in at least one of an area designated by a user and an area other than the area designated by the user. Information processing system. (16) The information processing system according to (15), further comprising: an output unit that outputs support information regarding the user's designation of the area; Information processing system. (17) The information processing system according to (16), The support information includes at least one of image information including the map information, a GUI, an icon, or a guide voice. Information processing system. (18) The information processing system according to any one of (1) to (17), further comprising: A display control unit is provided that displays the area superimposed on the map information. Information processing system. (19) an acquisition unit for acquiring map information; a setting unit that associates an area set based on the map information, a content to be played, and type information indicating a type of playback control for the content to be played with each other, and sets the associated information as content area information; An information processing device comprising: (20) A content playback device connected to an information processing system, The information processing system includes: setting content area information in which an area set based on map information, a content to be played, and type information indicating a type of playback control for the content to be played are associated with each other; Controlling the reproduction of the content to be reproduced based on the type information; The content playback device plays the content to be played back in accordance with playback control by the information processing system. Content playback device. (twenty one) Get map information, an area set based on the map information, a content to be played, and type information indicating a type of playback control for the content to be played are associated with each other and set as content area information; The reproduction of the content to be reproduced is controlled based on the type information. An information processing method implemented by a computer system. (twenty two) obtaining map information; a step of associating an area set based on the map information, a content to be played, and type information indicating a type of playback control for the content to be played with each other, and setting the area as content area information; controlling the reproduction of the content to be reproduced based on the type information; A program that causes a computer system to execute the following. (23) An information processing system according to any one of (1) to (17), the content to be played back is made up of a plurality of content data; The control unit plays content data randomly selected from the plurality of content data. Information processing system. (24) An information processing system according to any one of (1) to (17), the content to be played back is made up of a plurality of content data; The control unit reproduces the plurality of content data in a predetermined order. Information processing system. [Explanation of symbols]

[0193] 100...Content provision system 3…Area 4...Sound content data 5. Creator 9...Information processing device 11...Playback control unit 12…Acquisition part 13...Settings section 14...Display control unit 18...Map information 27...Playback control unit 42...Layer selection section 43...Map / area display section 44...Area sound list display section 45...Detailed settings section 74...Area Sound 75...Tour Sound

Claims

1. an acquisition unit for acquiring map information; a setting unit that associates an area set based on the map information, a content to be played, and type information indicating a type of playback control for the content to be played with each other, and sets the associated area as content area information; a playback control unit that controls playback of the content to be played back based on the type information; An information processing system comprising:

2. 2. The information processing system according to claim 1, The playback control unit controls playback of the content to be played back based on the viewer's position relative to the area. Information processing system.

3. 3. The information processing system according to claim 2, The playback control unit controls playback of the content to be played back in response to the viewer's entry into or exit from the area. Information processing system.

4. 2. The information processing system according to claim 1, The type information defines playback control in the overlapping areas of the content to be played back, the content being included in each of a plurality of pieces of content area information whose areas overlap each other. Information processing system.

5. 5. The information processing system according to claim 4, The type information defines a priority regarding playback control of the content to be played back. Information processing system.

6. 6. The information processing system according to claim 5, The type information defines a priority regarding at least one of control of a predetermined parameter, whether or not to play, and switching of the content to be played. Information processing system.

7. 7. The information processing system according to claim 6, The content to be reproduced includes at least one of audio data and image data. Information processing system.

8. 8. The information processing system according to claim 7, the type information includes first type information and second type information having a lower priority than the first type information, The playback control unit, in the overlapping area, playing the content to be played back associated with the first type information using a first control method; With regard to the content to be reproduced associated with the second type information, if the content to be reproduced associated with the first type information is being reproduced, the content to be reproduced is reproduced by a second control method different from the first control method, and if the content to be reproduced associated with the first type information is not being reproduced, the content to be reproduced is reproduced by a third control method different from the second control method. Information processing system.

9. 9. The information processing system according to claim 8, The third control method is the same as the first control method. Information processing system.

10. 8. The information processing system according to claim 7, the type information includes first type information and second type information having a lower priority than the first type information, The playback control unit restricts playback of the content to be played back associated with the second type information while the content to be played back associated with the first type information is being played back in the overlapping area. Information processing system.

11. 8. The information processing system according to claim 7, the type information includes first type information and second type information having a lower priority than the first type information, The playback control unit switches playback content of the playback target content associated with the second type information in the overlapping area in response to switching between playback and non-playback of the playback target content associated with the first type information. Information processing system.

12. 2. The information processing system according to claim 1, The setting unit associates the type information with the content to be played back in accordance with the type of the content to be played back. Information processing system.

13. 13. The information processing system according to claim 12, the content to be reproduced is audio data, The type of the audio data includes at least one of speech, background music, and environmental sound. Information processing system.

14. 14. The information processing system according to claim 13, The setting unit associates the type information having a first priority with the utterance, associates the type information having a second priority different from the first priority with the BGM, and associates the type information having a third priority different from each of the first priority and the second priority with the environmental sound. Information processing system.

15. 2. The information processing system according to claim 1, The setting unit associates the content to be played with the type information and sets the content area information in at least one of an area designated by a user and an area other than the area designated by the user. Information processing system.

16. 16. The information processing system according to claim 15, further comprising: an output unit that outputs support information regarding the user's designation of the area; Information processing system.

17. 17. The information processing system according to claim 16, The support information includes at least one of image information including the map information, a GUI, an icon, and a guide voice. Information processing system.

18. The information processing system according to claim 1, further comprising: A display control unit is provided that displays the area superimposed on the map information. Information processing system.

19. an acquisition unit for acquiring map information; a setting unit that associates an area set based on the map information, a content to be played, and type information indicating a type of playback control for the content to be played with each other, and sets the associated information as content area information; An information processing device comprising:

Images