Programs and Information Processing Systems

Abstract

We will provide programs that improve the convenience of our services. [Solution] The computer functions as a control means that changes the content being played on a device in response to the heat state of a specific part of the device running the game. The control means also controls the device to an idling state in which the game is interrupted if the temperature of the specific part exceeds a predetermined level. Furthermore, the device is made capable of notifying the end of the idling state, and the system is equipped with a modification means that changes the duration of the idling state according to the content to be played after the idling state ends.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a program and an information processing system.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, technologies have been proposed to suppress heat generation in devices for advancing games, eliminate the inconvenience of performance degradation of the devices, and improve the convenience of services (for example, Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003] [[ID=z3]]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] The present invention aims to improve the convenience of services.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] To solve the above problems, the program of the present invention causes a computer to function as control means for changing the content to be advanced on the device according to the heat generation state of a specific part in the device while the game is being advanced

Effects of the Invention

[0006] According to the present invention, the convenience of services is improved.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0007] [Figure 1] It is a diagram for explaining each configuration of the information processing system. [Figure 2] It is a hardware configuration diagram of the information processing system. [Figure 3]This is a diagram illustrating the hardware details of the processing unit. [Figure 4] This diagram illustrates specific examples of heat generation in terminal devices. [Figure 5] This is a functional block diagram of an information processing system. [Figure 6] This diagram illustrates a specific example of starting an idling state. [Figure 7] This is a diagram illustrating another specific example of starting an idling state. [Figure 8] These are simulated images of each state during idling. [Figure 9] This is a flowchart of the monitoring process in a terminal device. [Figure 10] This is a diagram illustrating a variation. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0008] Figure 1 is a diagram illustrating the various components of the information processing system 1000. The information processing system 1000 consists of a terminal device 100 and a server device 200. As shown in Figure 1, the terminal device 100 and the server device 200 can communicate with each other via a network N. The network N is assumed to be, for example, the internet.

[0009] The terminal device 100 may be, for example, a smartphone, a personal computer, or a portable game console. The terminal device 100 also stores various programs, including application programs. In practice, multiple terminal devices 100 communicate with the server device 200. However, in Figure 1, for illustrative purposes, only one terminal device 100 is shown. As the terminal device 100, for example, a desktop personal computer may be used.

[0010] The server device 200 provides the terminal device 100 with various information used by the terminal device 100 when executing the application program. Specifically, the terminal device 100 and the server device 200 work together to enable the game to progress on the terminal device 100. In Figure 1, an example is shown in which the server device 200 is composed of one server device, but the server device 200 may be composed of multiple server devices (systems). Furthermore, the server device 200 may be configured to provide services other than games to the terminal device 100.

[0011] Figure 2 is a hardware configuration diagram of the information processing system 1000. As described above, the information processing system 1000 includes a terminal device 100 and a server device 200. As shown in Figure 2, the terminal device 100 consists of a processing unit 101, a storage device 102, a communication device 103, a display device 104, a GPS receiver 105, an acceleration direction sensor 106, and a temperature sensor 107. Each of these components is connected via a system bus so as to be able to communicate.

[0012] The processing unit 101 controls the entire terminal device 100. The processing unit 101 may consist of one or more processors. Specifically, the processing unit 101 may include a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), an ISP (Image Signal Processor), an NPU (Neural Network Processing Unit), and a DSP (Digital Signal Processor). Alternatively, the processing unit 101 may consist of one or more types of processors, such as an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) or an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit).

[0013] The storage device 102 stores various programs including a basic program and an application program PGx. As the storage device 102, for example, known recording media such as a semiconductor recording medium and a magnetic recording medium can be adopted. Also, the storage device 102 may be composed of one recording medium or a plurality of recording media. The application program PGx is pre-downloaded and installed in the terminal device 100. Further, the storage device 102 stores various game data (data indicating items given to the user, data indicating the status of the user character, etc.) used in the game.

[0014] The display device 104 is configured to include a display panel 104a and a touch panel 104b. The display panel 104a is, for example, a flat display composed of an organic EL (Electro Luminescence). The touch panel 104b is configured to be able to detect a touch operation of the user. Specifically, the touch panel 104b is provided overlaid on the display panel 104a and receives a touch operation on the image displayed on the display panel 104a.

[0015] The GPS receiver 105 receives GPS signals from GPS satellites. The acceleration azimuth sensor 106 is composed of a combination of various sensors including a compass for detecting azimuth, an acceleration sensor, and a gyro sensor. The communication device 103 communicates with the server device 200 via the network N. Also, the terminal device 100 includes a camera capable of taking still images and moving images. Further, the terminal device 100 includes a speaker capable of outputting various sounds.

[0016] The temperature sensor 107 measures the temperature of a specific part in the terminal device 100. As an example, the temperature sensor 107 measures the internal temperature and surface temperature (SKIN temperature) of the CPU and GPU in the terminal device 100. When the temperature measured by the temperature sensor 107 (hereinafter sometimes simply referred to as "temperature T") reaches a predetermined temperature (hereinafter "dangerous temperature Ts"), in the terminal device 100, so-called thermal throttling is executed.

[0017] Also, as will be described in detail later, when the temperature T reaches a predetermined temperature lower than the dangerous temperature Ts (hereinafter referred to as "warning temperature Tc"), the terminal device 100 is controlled to an idling state. The temperature of the processing device (such as a CPU) during a specific period tends to be higher as the processing load of the processing device during that period is greater. In the idling state, the processing loads of the CPU and GPU become relatively small, and heat generation in the CPU and GPU is suppressed.

[0018] Note that the above dangerous temperature Ts and warning temperature Tc can be appropriately set according to the terminal device 100 (such as the OS (Operating System) used). Also, the dangerous temperature Ts may be adopted as the warning temperature Tc. Furthermore, when a component different from the processing device (such as a CPU) (for example, a component vulnerable to heat, a component with a high possibility of ignition, an electronic component, a storage device, etc.) becomes high temperature, the terminal device 100 may be configured to be controlled to an idling state. For example, when the terminal device 100 includes an SSD (Solid State Drive) as a storage device, the terminal device 100 may be configured to be controlled to an idling state when the temperature of the SSD reaches a predetermined warning temperature.

[0019] The server device 200 is configured to include a processing device 201, a storage device 202, and a communication device 203. Each of the above components is communicably connected via a system bus. The processing device 201 controls the entire server device 200. The processing device 201 of the server device 200 can be composed of one or more processors, similar to the processing device 101 of the terminal device 100 described above. Specifically, the processing device 201 can be composed of one or more types of processors such as a CPU, GPU, DSP, FPGA, or ASIC for example.

[0020] The storage device 202 stores various programs, including the basic program and the game management program PGy. For the storage device 202 of the server device 200, known recording media such as semiconductor recording media and magnetic recording media may be used. The storage device 202 may consist of one recording media or multiple recording media. Furthermore, the storage device 202 stores various game data used in the game (data indicating items assigned to the user, data indicating the status of the user character, etc.) associated with the user's identifier. The communication device 203 communicates with the terminal device 100 via the network N.

[0021] Figure 3 is a diagram illustrating the details of the processing unit 101 of the terminal device 100. A System on a Chip (SoC) integrating various components (such as a CPU) can preferably be used as the processing unit 101. As shown in Figure 3, the processing unit 101 is composed of a CPU 101a, a GPU 101b, an ISP 101c, an NPU 101d, and a DSP 101e. Note that the components of the processing unit 101 are not limited to the above example. For example, the processing unit 101 (SoC) may be configured to integrate a communication modem for mobile communication with an external device.

[0022] Of the above components, the CPU 101a performs various processes to advance the game. For example, the CPU 101a calculates various game data in response to user operations (for example, operations to move the player character) and inputs instructions to the GPU 101b according to the calculation results. The GPU 101b displays various images in the game in response to instructions from the CPU 101a. For example, the GPU 101b displays the player character moving in the game space (virtual space) on the display device 104.

[0023] ISP101c is a component specialized in processing video signals from the camera of terminal device 100. NPU101d is a component specialized in processing using AI (Artificial Intelligence). For example, terminal device 100 can conduct the AI ​​chat described later (see Figure 8(b)). In the above AI chat, NPU101d is responsible for various processing tasks. DSP101e is responsible for various processing tasks for playing video data. DSP101e is also responsible for various processing tasks (such as digital-to-analog conversion) required for playing sound (music, voice).

[0024] In the above configuration, the processing load on CPU 101a and GPU 101b becomes relatively large during the period when the game is running on terminal device 100. In other words, during the period when the game is running on terminal device 100, CPU 101a and GPU 101b tend to become hot. On the other hand, the processing load on ISP 101c, NPU 101d, and DSP 101e becomes relatively small during the period when the game is running on terminal device 100. In other words, during the period when the game is running on terminal device 100, ISP 101c, NPU 101d, and DSP 101e are less likely to become hot.

[0025] For the purposes of this explanation, the combination of CPU 101a and GPU 101b may be referred to as "processing unit 101x." On the other hand, the combination of ISP 101c, NPU 101d, and DSP 101e may be referred to as "processing unit 101y." In other words, parts that tend to become hot during the period when the terminal device 100 is running a game may be referred to as processing unit 101x, and parts that do not tend to become hot may be referred to as processing unit 101y. As mentioned above, the temperature T of processing unit 101x is measured by the temperature sensor 107. Furthermore, when the temperature T of processing unit 101x reaches the warning temperature Tc, the terminal device 100 is controlled to an idling state. The above configuration will be explained in detail below using Figure 4.

[0026] Figure 4 illustrates a specific example of when the terminal device 100 transitions to an idle state. As described above, the temperature T of the processing unit 101x (CPU 101a, GPU 101b) is measured by the temperature sensor 107. Specifically, the temperature T measured by the temperature sensor 107 is acquired by the program PGx approximately every 33 milliseconds. Figure 4 shows the temperature T at each point in time.

[0027] In the specific example shown in Figure 4, we assume that the game starts at time t0. As mentioned above, the processing load on the processing unit 101x increases during the game's progression. Therefore, as shown in Figure 4, the temperature T of the processing unit 101x rises over time from time t0 when the game starts. In the specific example shown in Figure 4, we assume that at time t1, the temperature T of the processing unit 101x reaches the warning temperature Tc.

[0028] The time elapsed from the start of the game until the temperature T of the processing unit 101x reaches the warning temperature Tc varies depending on the content of the game. Specifically, in games where high-resolution 3D images are displayed for extended periods, the processing load on the processing unit 101x (GPU 101b) increases, making it easier for the temperature T to reach the warning temperature Tc in a shorter time. Furthermore, the time elapsed until the temperature T of the processing unit 101x reaches the warning temperature Tc may change depending on the ambient temperature of the space in which the terminal device 100 is operated. In addition, during periods when the battery of the terminal device 100 is being charged, the battery tends to become hotter, which tends to shorten the time elapsed until the temperature T of the processing unit 101x reaches the warning temperature Tc.

[0029] When the temperature T of the processing unit 101x reaches the warning temperature Tc, the terminal device 100 transitions to a standby state. This standby state is provided before transitioning to the idling state, and the idling state begins when the standby state ends. In addition, the game can be played in the standby state, and the standby state ends when a predetermined termination trigger is met. For example, after a predetermined time has elapsed in the standby state (for example, about 5 minutes; hereafter sometimes referred to as "standby time"), the idling state begins (see Figure 6(a) below).

[0030] As will be explained in more detail later, various events (solo events, multiplayer events) are initiated when predetermined triggers are met in the game. In this embodiment, if an event trigger is met while the system is in a standby state, the idle state is initiated even before the aforementioned standby time has elapsed. After the idle state ends, the event for which the trigger was met in advance is initiated. The above configuration will be explained in detail using Figures 6(a), (b-1) to (b-3).

[0031] Furthermore, if the temperature T reaches the warning temperature Tc during an event, the system will wait for the event to finish before starting the idling state. The above configuration will be described in detail later using Figures 7(a) and 7(b). In the specific example in Figure 4, we assume that the standby state starts at time t1, and the idling state starts at the subsequent time t2.

[0032] In idle mode, the processing unit 101y (NPU 101d, DSP 101e) handles various content (playback of replay videos, AI chat). Also, in idle mode, the processing load on the processing unit 101x (CPU 101a, GPU 101b) is smaller compared to when the game is running. In idle mode, the processing unit 101x cools down more easily compared to when the game is running.

[0033] The idling state ends after a predetermined time (hereinafter referred to as "idling time"). Specifically, the idling time is determined to be long enough for the processing unit 101x to cool down to a predetermined temperature (hereinafter referred to as "target temperature Tg"). In the specific example shown in Figure 4, it is assumed that the idling state, which started at time t2, ends at time t3. It is also assumed that at time t3, the temperature T of the processing unit 101x is lower than the target temperature Tg. Note that the idling time and target temperature Tg can be changed as appropriate. For example, the idling time and target temperature Tg can be set as appropriate depending on the terminal device 100 (such as the OS (Operating System) used).

[0034] As shown in Figure 4, once the idling state ends, the game can proceed, and the temperature T of the processing unit 101x rises again. However, in this embodiment, since the temperature T of the processing unit 101x is sufficiently low at the time t3 when the game resumes, the inconvenience of the temperature T reaching the dangerous temperature Ts is suppressed.

[0035] Figure 5 is a functional block diagram of the information processing system 1. As shown in Figure 5, the information processing system 1 is composed of a terminal device 10 and a management device 20. For example, the terminal device 100 functions as a terminal device 10 by executing a program. The terminal device 10 is composed of control means 11, notification means 12, and modification means 13. However, the management device 20 may be configured to have some or all of the above configurations (functions). Also, the server device 200 functions as a management device 20 by executing a program. Each of the above configurations can communicate via the network N.

[0036] The control means 11 changes the content being played on the device (terminal device 10) in accordance with the heat generation status of a specific part (processing unit 101x) in the device playing the game. As described above, the part of the terminal device 10 that is prone to becoming hot changes depending on the content being played on the terminal device 10. In this embodiment, since the content being played changes according to the heat generation status of the specific part, the inconvenience of the specific part becoming hot can be suppressed compared to, for example, a configuration in which the same content continues to play regardless of the heat generation status of the specific part.

[0037] Specifically, the terminal device 10 comprises a processing unit 101x (an example of a first processing unit) located in a specific area, and a processing unit 101y (an example of a second processing unit) separate from the processing unit 101x. In the idling state, the processing load on the processing unit 101x is reduced compared to the period during which the game is in progress, and other content (for example, playback of a replay video) is handled by the processing unit 101y. In this idling state, the processing unit 101x can be cooled down.

[0038] Incidentally, let's consider a configuration where no content can be advanced in the idling state, including content that can be advanced by the processing unit 101y (such as playback of replay videos) (hereinafter referred to as "proportional relationship"). Even with the above proportional relationship, the processing unit 101x can be cooled down in the idling state, just as in this embodiment. However, with the proportional relationship, a new inconvenience may arise: the idling state may be uninteresting.

[0039] To suppress the above-mentioned inconveniences, in the idling state of this embodiment, the processing load on the processing unit 101x is reduced while the processing unit 101y is allowed to proceed with other content. With this configuration, for example, compared to the proportional approach described above, the processing unit 101x can be cooled down during the idling state while improving the appeal of the idling state. Therefore, there is an advantage in that the above-mentioned inconveniences can be suppressed.

[0040] The notification means 12 of the terminal device 10 notifies the user of the end of the idling state. Let's assume a configuration in which the end of the idling state is not notified to the user. In this configuration, some users may experience inconvenience and stress during the idling state. The notification means 12 of this embodiment can suppress this inconvenience. The above configuration will be described in detail later with reference to Figures 8(a) and 8(b).

[0041] The modification means 13 of the terminal device 10 changes the idling time according to the content (event) that will proceed after the idling state ends. For example, if the terminal device 10 (modification means 13) plans to proceed with content (multi-event) that places a relatively large processing load on the processing unit 101x (the processing unit 101x is likely to become hot) immediately after the idling state ends, it will set the idling time to be relatively long. The above configuration will be described in detail later using Figures 6(b-1) to 6(b-3).

[0042] Furthermore, the control means 11 of this embodiment, if an event is in progress, waits for the event to finish and then controls the terminal device 10 to an idle state. Let's assume a configuration in which the system transitions to an idle state in the middle of an event. In this configuration, the game is interrupted in the middle of an event, which may cause inconvenience and dissatisfaction for some users. According to this embodiment, the above inconvenience is suppressed. The above configuration will be described in detail later using Figures 7(a) and 7(b).

[0043] Figure 6(a) is a schematic diagram of a specific example of the map screen Mp displayed during the period when a game is being played on the terminal device 10. In this embodiment, a game in which the player character Gp discovers treasure in a virtual space can be played on the terminal device 10. However, the games that can be played on the terminal device 10 are not limited to the above example. As shown in Figure 6(a), the map screen Mp is provided with solo event spots Ps and multi-event spots Pm. When the terminal device 10 is operated appropriately, the player character Gp can be moved to either the solo event spot Ps or the multi-event spot Pm.

[0044] When a player character Gp moves to a solo event spot Ps, a solo event is started on terminal device 10. This solo event is conducted by one user's player character Gp. On the other hand, when a player character Gp moves to a multi-event spot Pm, a multi-event is started on terminal device 10. This multi-event is conducted by multiple users' individual player character Gps.

[0045] During the periods in which each of the above events is taking place (hereinafter referred to as "event periods"), the processing load on the processing unit 101x is greater compared to periods in which no events are taking place (periods in which the player character Gp moves across the map screen MP; hereinafter referred to as "non-event periods"). In other words, during event periods, the processing unit 101x is more likely to overheat compared to non-event periods. Furthermore, the processing load on the processing unit 101x during multi-events is more likely to be greater than that during solo events. In other words, the processing unit 101x is more likely to overheat during periods in which multi-events are taking place compared to periods in which solo events are taking place.

[0046] During a non-event period, if the temperature T of the processing unit 101x reaches the warning temperature Tc, the standby state described above is initiated. The specific example in Figure 6(a) assumes that the standby state is initiated during a non-event period. In this case, even during a non-event period after the standby state is initiated, the game can be played on the map screen Mp, just as in the non-event period before the standby state was initiated. Specifically, even during a non-event period after the standby state is initiated, the player character Gp can be moved to the solo event spot Ps or the multi-event spot Pm, just as in the non-event period before the standby state was initiated.

[0047] As shown in Figure 6(a), when the standby state begins during a non-event period, the countdown image Gx1 is displayed. The countdown image Gx1 is an image that notifies the user in advance that the idling state will begin. Specifically, during a non-event period, the standby state ends and the idling state begins after a predetermined waiting time (approximately 5 minutes) has elapsed. The countdown image Gx1 displays the remaining waiting time (i.e., the remaining time until the idling state begins; in the specific example in Figure 6(a), it is "3 minutes and 56 seconds").

[0048] The countdown image Gx1 described above allows the user to be notified in advance of when the system will transition to the idling state. However, the method of notifying the user in advance of when the system will transition to the idling state is not limited to displaying the countdown image Gx1. For example, when the temperature T of the processing unit 101x reaches the warning temperature Tc, an audio message notifying the user of when the system will transition to the idling state may be output.

[0049] As shown in Figure 6(a), the warning level image Gy may be displayed on the map screen Mp. The warning level image Gy is displayed in a manner corresponding to the temperature T (current value) of the processing unit 101x. For example, in standby mode, the temperature T is usually equal to or greater than the warning temperature Tc. In this case, the warning level image Gy displays the string "Very High". Also, if the temperature T is less than the warning temperature Tc but equal to or greater than the target temperature Tg mentioned above, the warning level image Gy displays the string "High". Similarly, if the temperature T is less than the target temperature Tg, the warning level image Gy displays the string "Low".

[0050] The timing and location of the display of the warning level image Gy can be changed as appropriate. For example, the warning level image Gy may be displayed at all times, or it may be displayed temporarily at predetermined triggers. Specifically, the warning level image Gy may be displayed temporarily (for example, for about 5 seconds) when the temperature T of the processing unit 101x rises to or above the target temperature Tg, and the warning level image Gy may be displayed at all times during the standby state after the temperature T of the processing unit 101x reaches or above the warning temperature Tc. Alternatively, the warning level image Gy may be displayed when the user operates the terminal device 10 as appropriate.

[0051] Figures 6(b-1) to 6(b-3) illustrate specific examples of transitioning to an idling state during non-event periods. Figures 6(b-1) to 6(b-3) show non-event periods and event periods (solo event, multi-event). Figures 6(b-1) to 6(b-3) also show periods of standby and idling states.

[0052] In this embodiment, during non-event periods, the idling state begins not only when the waiting time expires, but also when the player character Gp moves to a solo event spot Ps or a multi-event spot Pm, even before the waiting time expires.

[0053] Furthermore, if an idling state is initiated when the waiting time expires (see Figure 6(b-1)), a non-event period will begin after that idling state. On the other hand, if an idling state is initiated when the player character Gp moves to a solo event spot Ps (see Figure 6(b-2)), the solo event will become available after that idling state. Similarly, if an idling state is initiated when the player character Gp moves to a multi-event spot Ps (see Figure 6(b-3)), the multi-event will become available after that idling state.

[0054] In this embodiment, the idling time changes depending on whether a non-event period begins after the idling state, whether a solo event becomes possible after the idling state, or whether a multi-event becomes possible after the idling state. The above configuration will be described in detail below.

[0055] The specific example in Figure 6(b-1) assumes that, similar to the specific example in Figure 6(a) described above, the temperature T of the processing unit 101x reaches the warning temperature Tc at time ta1 during a non-event period. In this case, the standby state starts from time ta1. Subsequently, in the specific example in Figure 6(b-1), it is assumed that the standby time (remaining time until idling state) expires at time ta2. In this case, the idling state starts from time ta2, and the idling screen MI (see Figures 8(a) and 8(b) described later) is displayed instead of the map screen Mp.

[0056] As mentioned above, when the waiting time expires and idling begins, the period after the idling ends is also a non-event period. In addition, the temperature T of the processing unit 101x is less likely to rise during a non-event period compared to an event period. Considering these circumstances, if a non-event period begins after the idling ends, a relatively short idling time (for example, about 5 minutes) is determined at the start of the idling state.

[0057] Figure 6(b-2) is a diagram illustrating another specific example of the transition to the idling state. Similar to the specific example in Figure 6(a) described above, the specific example in Figure 6(b-2) assumes that at time tb1 during the non-event period, the temperature T of the processing unit 101x reaches the warning temperature Tc and the standby state is initiated. Furthermore, the specific example in Figure 6(b-2) assumes that at time tb2, before the standby time (approximately 5 minutes) expires, the player character Gp moves to the solo event spot. In this case, the idling state is initiated from time tb2.

[0058] As shown in Figure 6(b-2), if an idling state is initiated when transitioning to a solo event spot, the solo event can proceed after the idling state ends. During the period in which the solo event is in progress, the processing unit 101x tends to become hotter compared to the non-event period. Taking these circumstances into consideration, in this embodiment, the idling time when the solo event proceeds after the idling state has ended is set to be longer (for example, about 7 minutes) compared to the idling time when the non-event period is initiated when the idling state ends.

[0059] Figure 6(b-3) is a diagram illustrating another specific example of the transition to the idling state. The specific example in Figure 6(b-3), similar to the specific example in Figure 6(a) above, assumes that at time tc1 during the non-event period, the temperature T of the processing unit 101x reaches the warning temperature Tc. Furthermore, in the specific example in Figure 6(b-3), it is assumed that at time tc2, before the waiting time expires, the player character Gp moves to a multi-event spot. In this case, the idling state starts from time tc2. However, even if the player character Gp moves to an event spot (Ps, Pm), the system may be configured to wait for the waiting time to elapse before starting the idling state.

[0060] As shown in Figure 6(b-3), if an idling state is initiated when transitioning to a multi-event spot, the multi-event can proceed after the idling state ends. Among the various events in the game, multi-events tend to cause the processing unit 101x to overheat more easily than solo events. Considering these circumstances, the idling time when a multi-event proceeds after the idling state ends is set to be longer (for example, about 10 minutes) compared to the idling time when a solo event proceeds after the idling state ends.

[0061] Let's assume a configuration where the idling time is uniform regardless of the content that proceeds after the idling state ends (hereinafter referred to as "post-event content") (hereinafter referred to as "proportional"). In the above proportional configuration, the processing unit 101x may be cooled more than necessary before the post-event content, which does not easily raise the temperature T (for example, content during the non-event period), starts. In other words, the inconvenience of an unnecessarily long idling time may occur. Also, in the above proportional configuration, the processing unit 101x may not be sufficiently cooled when the post-event content, which tends to raise the temperature T (for example, content during the event period), starts. In other words, the inconvenience of an insufficient idling time may occur. In this embodiment, since the idling time is variably determined according to the post-event content, the above-mentioned inconveniences are suppressed compared to the proportional configuration.

[0062] Figure 7(a) is a schematic diagram of a specific example of an event screen Me displayed in a game played on terminal device 10. The specific example in Figure 7(a) assumes an event screen Me displayed in a multi-event, one of the various events (solo events, multi-events) in the game. When each user's terminal device 10 is operated appropriately, a common multi-event can be played. The event screen Me displays each player character Gp of each user who is working together to play the multi-event. Figure 7(a) shows a specific example of a multi-event in which two player characters Gp cooperate to discover treasure. However, multi-events are not limited to the above example.

[0063] During the event period, if the temperature T of the processing unit 101x reaches the warning temperature Tc, the standby state described above is initiated. The specific example in Figure 7(a) assumes that the standby state is initiated while a multi-event is in progress. In this embodiment, events can proceed during the event period after the standby state is initiated, just as they can during the event period before the standby state is initiated.

[0064] Incidentally, let's assume a configuration where, if the temperature T of the processing unit 101x reaches the warning temperature Tc during the event period, the idling state is immediately initiated. In this configuration, the event is interrupted midway, which may cause inconvenience and dissatisfaction for some users. In particular, if the idling state is initiated in the middle of a multi-event, all users who were working together on that multi-event may become dissatisfied.

[0065] Considering the above circumstances, in this embodiment, if the temperature T of the processing unit 101x reaches the warning temperature Tc during the event period, a configuration is adopted in which the game can be kept playable until the ongoing event ends. Specifically, if the temperature T of the processing unit 101x reaches the warning temperature Tc while an event is in progress, a configuration is adopted in which the idle state is started after waiting for the event to end. With this configuration, the above-mentioned inconveniences are suppressed.

[0066] As shown in Figure 7(a), if the temperature T of the processing unit 101x reaches the warning temperature Tc during the event period (in the standby state during the event period), a warning image Gx2 is displayed on the event screen Me. The warning image Gx2 is an image that warns that the idling state will start when the currently ongoing event ends. Also, in the standby state during the event period, the warning level image Gy is displayed, similar to the standby state in a non-event period (see Figure 6(a) above).

[0067] Figure 7(b) illustrates a specific example of the transition to an idling state during an event period. Figure 7(b) shows the non-event period and the event period. It also shows the standby state period and the idling state period.

[0068] The specific example in Figure 7(b) assumes, similar to the specific example in Figure 7(a) above, that at time td1 of the event period, the temperature T of the processing unit 101x reaches the warning temperature Tc. In this case, the standby state starts from time td1, and the warning image Gx2 is displayed on the event screen Me. Furthermore, the specific example in Figure 7(b) assumes that the event ends at time td2. In this case, the idling state starts from time td2, and the idling screen MI is displayed instead of the event screen Me. Also, when the idling state starts, the warning image Gx2 is hidden.

[0069] In this embodiment, if an idling state is initiated when an event ends, a non-event period begins after the idling state ends. As described above, the processing unit 101x is less likely to become hot during the non-event period compared to the event period. Taking these circumstances into consideration, as shown in Figure 7(b), when an idling state is initiated when an event ends, a relatively short idling time (for example, about 5 minutes) is determined at the start of the idling state. However, if the idling state initiated when an event ends ends, one of the various events may be initiated immediately afterward. Alternatively, the idling time may be variable depending on the type of event that is initiated immediately afterward.

[0070] Figures 8(a) and 8(b) illustrate specific examples of the Idling Screen MI. The Idling Screen MI is displayed in the idling state. As shown in Figures 8(a) and 8(b), the Idling Screen MI displays an idling timer image Gz, a content display area Rc, button images B(1, 2), and a warning level image Gy. The warning level image Gy of the Idling Screen MI is displayed in a manner corresponding to the current temperature T in the idling state.

[0071] The idling timer image Gz displays the remaining time until the idling state ends (in the specific example in Figure 8(a), it is "4 minutes and 37 seconds"). The idling timer image Gz allows the user to be notified of the remaining time until the idling state ends. The display period of the idling timer image Gz can be changed as needed. For example, in each idling state with different idling times, the idling timer image Gz could be hidden immediately after the start of the idling state, and then displayed starting when the remaining time until the end of the idling state reaches approximately M minutes (for example, M=5).

[0072] Each button image B(1, 2) on the idling screen MI corresponds to a different content that can be accessed during the idling state. The user can select the content to access during the idling state by selecting (touching) the button image B. Specifically, in the idling state of this embodiment, various content including "playback video" and "AI chat" can be accessed. Of the button images B, button image B1 corresponds to "playback video," and button image B2 corresponds to "AI chat." When the idling state begins, the user can start the desired content by selecting the corresponding button image B. Furthermore, during the progress of content, the user can switch content by selecting another button image B.

[0073] The content display area Rc displays an image corresponding to the content progressing during the idle state. For example, before the idle state begins, the terminal device 10 pre-records a video of the aforementioned event (solo event, multi-event) (hereinafter referred to as "replay video"). If button image B1 (play replay video) is selected during the idle state, the pre-recorded replay video is played in the display area Rc. The replay video is played by the processing unit 101y (DSP 101e), and the processing unit 101x can be cooled down during the period in which the replay video is played.

[0074] Figure 8(a) shows a specific example of the idling screen MI when button image B1 is selected. The content area Rc of the idling screen MI displays a replay video. Alternatively, an image indicating the playback position in the replay video may be displayed in the content display area Rc, and the playback position may be changed by manipulating this image as appropriate. Furthermore, the terminal device 10 may pre-record replay videos of multiple events, and the user may be able to select which of the multiple replay videos to play during idling.

[0075] Figure 8(b) shows a specific example of the idling screen MI when button image B2 (AI Chat) is selected. The content area Rc of the idling screen MI displays various images for advancing the AI ​​chat. Specifically, the AI ​​chat enables a chat with character C. Character C can be, for example, a character that appears in a game.

[0076] For example, the user enters a message to character C (e.g., a question to character C) into an input field in the content area Rc and operates the send button. The message sent by the user is displayed in the content area Rc. The user's message is also input into a pre-trained machine learning model, which generates a response to that message. The generated response is then displayed in the content area Rc as a message from character C.

[0077] The AI ​​chat described above is conducted by the processing unit 101y (NPU 101d), and the processing unit 101x can be cooled down during the period in which the AI ​​chat is conducted. According to this embodiment, the temperature T of the processing unit 101x can be reduced in the idling state, while suppressing the inconvenience of the user becoming bored in the idling state. Note that the content that can be conducted in the idling state is not limited to the above example, as long as the temperature T of the processing unit 101x is reduced. Other specific examples of content that can be conducted in the idling state will be described later in the modified examples (see Figure 10(a)).

[0078] Figure 9 is a flowchart of the monitoring process performed by the terminal device 10. The terminal device 10 performs the monitoring process at predetermined intervals. Note that the entity that performs each step described below is not limited to the example below. For example, all or part of each step performed by the terminal device 10 may be performed on the management device 20 side.

[0079] When monitoring processing begins, the terminal device 10 determines whether the temperature T of the processing unit 101x is equal to or greater than the warning temperature Tc (S101). If the temperature T is less than the warning temperature Tc (S101: No), the terminal device 10 repeats step S101. On the other hand, if the temperature T is equal to or greater than the warning temperature Tc (S101: Yes), the terminal device 10 determines whether or not it is during an event period (S102). If it is determined that it is not during an event period (it is a non-event period) (S102: Yes), the terminal device 10 sets a timer for a waiting time (approximately 5 minutes), starts counting down the waiting time (S103), and enters a standby state.

[0080] During the standby state in the non-event period, steps S104 to S107 shown in Figure 9 are repeatedly executed. Specifically, in the standby state described above, a timer indicating the remaining time until the idling state is decremented (S104), and it is determined whether the timer has been decremented to the value "0" (whether the standby time has expired) (S105). If the remaining time until the idling state is not "0" (S105: No), the terminal device 10 determines whether the player character Gp has reached the solo event spot Ps (S106).

[0081] Furthermore, the terminal device 10 determines whether or not the player character Gp has reached the multi-event spot Pm (S107). If the remaining time until idling is "0" (S105: Yes), if the player character Gp has reached the solo event spot Ps (S106: Yes), or if the player character Gp has reached the multi-event spot Pm (S107: Yes), the terminal device 10 determines the idling time (S108) and starts the idling state (S109).

[0082] Specifically, when transitioning from step S105 to step S108 (when a non-event period begins after an idling state), the idling time is set to "approximately 5 minutes". Also, when transitioning from step S106 to step S108 (when a solo event begins after an idling state), the idling time is set to "approximately 7 minutes". Similarly, when transitioning from step S107 to step S108 (when a multi-event begins after an idling state), the idling time is set to "approximately 10 minutes". Once the idling time is determined, the idling screen MI is displayed on the terminal device 10.

[0083] If it is determined in step S102 that the event period is still ongoing (S102: No), the terminal device 10 proceeds to step S110. In step S110, it is determined whether the ongoing event has finished. The terminal device 10 repeatedly executes step S110 until the event has finished (S110: No), and if it determines that the event has finished (S110: Yes), it executes steps S108 and S109 to terminate the monitoring process.

[0084] <Variation> Each of the above forms can be modified in various ways. Specific examples of modifications are given below. Two or more forms can be arbitrarily selected from the following examples and combined as appropriate.

[0085] (1) In each form, the content that can be played in the idle state is not limited to the example of the first embodiment. Figure 10(a) is a diagram illustrating the content that can be played in the idle state of a modified example. In the modified examples above, as with the first embodiment described above, replay videos can be played in the idle state. In addition, AI chat can be played in the idle state.

[0086] In addition to the above content, the modified version can display predetermined still images during its idle state. Examples of still images displayed during the idle state include still images that provide hints for progressing through the game. Alternatively, the configuration may display still images taken by the user during the idle state. During the idle state of the modified version, still images are displayed in sequence at predetermined time intervals (a slideshow is executed). Specifically, each still image is displayed by the processing unit 101y (DSP 101e), and the processing unit 101x can be cooled down during the period in which the still images are displayed.

[0087] Furthermore, in the idle state of this modified configuration, predetermined music can be played. Examples of music played in the idle state include music used in games. In addition, when music is played in the idle state, the configuration may be such that another application for playing the music is launched. The above music is played by the processing unit 101y (DSP 101e), and the processing unit 101x can be cooled down during the period in which the music is played.

[0088] Furthermore, in the idle state of the modified version, a still image containing a predetermined warning message can be displayed. This warning message indicates that the temperature T of the processing unit 101x is high. The warning message also includes a message stating that if the temperature T of the processing unit 101x does not decrease, the running application may be forcibly terminated.

[0089] As shown in Figure 10(a), each content that can proceed in an idling state is assigned an idling level Lv (1 to 5). The idling level Lv decreases as the content is more likely to cause the temperature T of the processing unit 101x to rise. In other words, the idling level Lv increases as the content is more likely to cause the temperature T of the processing unit 101x to fall lower (higher cooling effect).

[0090] For example, among the above-mentioned content, "Displaying Warning Messages" has a higher cooling effect than the other content, with an idling level of "Lv5". On the other hand, "Playing Replay Videos" has a lower cooling effect than the other content, with an idling level of "Lv1". Also, "AI Chat" has an idling level of "Lv2", "Displaying Still Images" has an idling level of "Lv3", and "Playing Music" has an idling level of "Lv4".

[0091] In the above modified configuration, the system may be configured to automatically switch between content that can be played during idling. Specifically, depending on the ambient temperature of the space in which the terminal device 10 is operated, the temperature T of the processing unit 101x may not decrease easily. Considering these circumstances, if the temperature T of the processing unit 101x does not decrease easily during idling, the system may be configured to switch to content with a higher idling level Lv (higher cooling effect). With this configuration, the inconvenience of the idling state ending before the processing unit 101x has cooled sufficiently is suppressed. A modified configuration adopting the above configuration will be described in detail below using Figure 10(b).

[0092] Figure 10(b) is a flowchart of the idling process performed by the terminal device 10 in the above modified example. The terminal device 10 performs the idling process while in the idling state. When the idling process starts, the terminal device 10 subtracts from a timer that measures the remaining time in the idling state (S201), and determines whether the subtracted timer has reached the value "0" (S202).

[0093] The terminal device 10 repeatedly executes steps S201 and S202 until the timer reaches the value "0" (S201: No). When the timer reaches the value "0" (S201: Yes), the terminal device 10 determines whether the temperature T of the processing unit 101x is equal to or greater than the target temperature Tg (S203). If the temperature T of the processing unit 101x is less than the target temperature Tg (temperature T has cooled sufficiently) (S203: No), the terminal device 10 executes the idle termination process (S208) and terminates the idle processing. In the idle termination process, the idle state ends and the game resumes.

[0094] On the other hand, when the remaining time in the idling state becomes "0", if the temperature T of the processing unit 101x is equal to or greater than the target temperature Tg (S203: Yes), the terminal device 10 determines whether the idling level Lv of the current content is "Lv5" (warning message displayed) (S204). If the idling level Lv of the current content is not "Lv5" (S204: No), the terminal device 10 switches to content that has a higher idling level Lv (higher cooling effect) (for example, raising the idling level Lv by one level) (S205).

[0095] Furthermore, after changing the idling level Lv, the terminal device 10 resets the initial value for the remaining idling time (S206) and returns the process to step S201. Each of the above steps (S201 to S206) is repeated until the idling level Lv reaches "Lv5" (maximum value) (Yes in S204) or the temperature T becomes lower than the target temperature Tg (No in S203).

[0096] Specifically, in this modified version, the content that can be played immediately after the idling state begins is "replay video playback" (idling level Lv=Lv1). After approximately 5 minutes have passed, if the temperature T is higher than the target temperature Tg, the content that can be played switches from "replay video playback" to "AI chat" (idling level Lv=Lv2). After another approximately 5 minutes have passed, if the temperature T of the processing unit 101x is higher than the target temperature Tg, the content that can be played switches from "AI chat" to "still image display" (idling level Lv=Lv3). After that, the content that can be played switches in the following order every 5 minutes: "music image" (idling level Lv=Lv4) and "warning message display" (idling level Lv=Lv5).

[0097] If the remaining time for the idling state at idling level Lv (maximum value) reaches 0, but the temperature T of the processing unit 101x is higher than the target temperature Tg, the terminal device 10 proceeds to step S207. In step S207, it is determined whether or not the temperature T of the processing unit 101x is less than the target temperature Tg. The terminal device 10 repeatedly executes step S207 until the temperature T of the processing unit 101x falls below the target temperature Tg (S207: No). In this configuration, once a warning message is displayed, the warning message continues to be displayed until the temperature T of the processing unit 101x falls below the target temperature Tg. When the temperature T of the processing unit 101x falls below the target temperature Tg (S207: Yes), the terminal device 10 executes the idling termination process and terminates the idling process.

[0098] (2) In each configuration, the videos displayed in the idle state are not limited to replay videos. For example, the configuration may include advertising videos, game hint videos, game manual (tutorial) videos, user-recorded videos, and online videos (such as video calls) displayed in the idle state. Also, the still images displayed in the idle state are not limited to the examples above. For example, the configuration may include advertising images, images of memorable game scenes, game manual (tutorial) images, user-recorded images, and images of online chats between users displayed in the idle state.

[0099] Similarly, the music played during idle time is not limited to the examples described above. For example, audio that provides hints for progressing through the game, or internet radio, may be played during idle time. Furthermore, while the above configurations allow for AI chat during idle time, the system may also display still images generated by a machine learning model sequentially, or play videos generated by a machine learning model sequentially. In addition, the system may be configured to generate advice based on the current game progress, and this advice may be displayed during idle time.

[0100] (3) In each configuration, the idling time is not limited to the examples above. For example, the idling time may be determined by a machine learning model. Specifically, the machine learning model may be input with data indicating the temperature T at the time the idling state starts, the event scheduled to start after the idling state ends (post-event content), the length of time from when the game starts until the temperature T reaches the warning temperature Tc, and the type of game, and the optimal idling time may be determined.

[0101] (4) In each configuration, the trigger for the termination of the idling state is not limited to the examples described above. For example, the idling state may be terminated when the temperature T of the processing unit 101x drops to the target temperature Tg. In addition, in the above configuration, the terminal device 10 may be able to estimate the time required for the temperature T of the processing unit 101x to drop to the target temperature Tg (hereinafter referred to as "cooling time"). For example, the temperature T at the time the idling state is started, the time from the start of the game until the temperature T reaches the warning temperature Tc, and data indicating the type of game may be input to a machine learning model to estimate the cooling time. In addition, the remaining time of the cooling time estimated by the terminal device 10 may be displayed during the idling state.

[0102] (5) In each configuration, the notification means 12 is not limited to an image display means for displaying an image (countdown image Gx1), but can be changed as appropriate. For example, a sound output means or vibration means provided by the terminal device 10 may be used as the notification means. Alternatively, any combination of the above means may be used as the notification means 12.

[0103] The embodiments described above may be combined in any way, replaced with other configurations, parts of the configuration may be deleted, or parts of the configuration may be modified. Furthermore, any publicly known technology at the time of filing that is not described herein may be adopted as appropriate.

[0104] <Note: Summary of the operation and effects of the embodiment> <First aspect> The programs (PGx, PGy) in this embodiment cause the computer to function as a control means (11) that changes the content being played on a device (terminal device 10) according to the heat generation state (temperature T) of a specific part (processing unit 101x) in the device playing the game. According to this embodiment, the convenience of the service is improved.

[0105] <Second aspect> In this embodiment, the program's control means controls the device to an idling state in which the game is interrupted if a specific part exceeds a predetermined temperature (warning temperature Tc). According to this embodiment, in the idling state, the temperature of parts that tend to generate heat during the game can be lowered.

[0106] <Third aspect> The program in this embodiment enables the device to notify the end of the idling state (see Figure 6(a)). According to this embodiment, user stress can be reduced compared to a configuration in which the end of the idling state is not notified.

[0107] <Fourth aspect> The program in this embodiment causes the computer to function as a modification means (13) that changes the duration of the idle state according to the content (solo event, multi-event) that proceeds after the idle state ends. According to this embodiment, for example, it is easier to set an appropriate idle time compared to a configuration in which the idle time is uniform.

[0108] <Fifth aspect> In this embodiment, the program includes various events in the game, and the control means waits for the events to finish before controlling the device to an idle state. According to this embodiment, the inconvenience of interrupting ongoing events is suppressed.

[0109] <Sixth aspect> In this embodiment, the program comprises a device with a first processing unit (processing unit 101x) located in a specific part and a second processing unit (processing unit 101y) separate from the first processing unit. In the idle state, the processing load on the second processing unit increases compared to the period during which the game is in progress, while the processing load on the first processing unit decreases. According to this embodiment, the enjoyment of the idle state can be improved by having the second processing unit advance the content.

[0110] <Seventh aspect> The information processing system in this embodiment includes control means (11) that changes the content being played on a device according to the heat state of a specific part of the device playing the game. According to this embodiment, the same effects as in the first embodiment described above can be achieved.

[0111] Furthermore, the problem-solving means configured in the above-mentioned program (for example, the configurations described in the appendix) can be adapted as appropriate for use in devices, systems, methods, information recording media, etc. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0112] 1... Information processing system, 10... Terminal device, 11... Control means, 12... Notification means, 13...Means of modification, 20...Management device.

Claims

1. Computers, A control means that changes the content being played on a device in accordance with the heat state of a specific part of the device running the game. A program that makes it function as such.

2. The control means controls the device to an idling state in which the game is interrupted if the temperature of the specific part exceeds a predetermined level. The program according to claim 1.

3. The device is made capable of notifying the end time of the idling state. The program according to claim 2.

4. A modification means for changing the duration of the idling state according to the content that proceeds after the idling state ends. The program according to claim 2, which causes the computer to function as such.

5. The aforementioned game includes various events, The control means can control the device to the idling state after waiting for the event to end. The program according to claim 2.

6. The device comprises a first processing unit provided in the specific part and a second processing unit separate from the first processing unit. During the idling state, the processing load on the first processing unit is reduced compared to the period during which the game is in progress, and the content is advanced by the second processing unit. The program according to claim 2.

7. A control means that changes the content being played on a device in accordance with the heat state of a specific part of the device running the game. An information processing system equipped with the following features.

Images