Information processing device and information processing program

Abstract

Optimize the placement of signs. [Solution] The information processing device according to the embodiment has a controller. The controller acquires behavioral information including the location information of multiple users, determines the spacing between signs for providing information based on the behavioral information, and determines the installation position of the signs based on the spacing.

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, various services utilizing pedestrian flow data have been provided. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a technique for evaluating the advertising effect on the installation position of a signboard based on pedestrian flow data.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, in the prior art, when installing a plurality of signboards, the influence between the signboards has not been considered. Therefore, there has been room for improvement in optimizing the installation locations of the signboards in the prior art.

[0005] The present invention has been made in view of the above, and an object thereof is to provide an information processing apparatus and an information processing program capable of optimizing the installation locations of signboards.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] In order to solve the above-described problems and achieve the object, the information processing apparatus according to the present invention has a controller. The controller acquires action information including position information of a plurality of users, determines an installation interval of a signboard for providing information based on the action information, and determines an installation position of the signboard based on the installation interval.

Effects of the Invention

[0007] According to the present invention, the installation position of signs is determined by considering the influence of other signs on each other, thereby optimizing the installation locations of signs. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] Figure 1 shows an example of the configuration of an information processing system. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is an overview diagram of information processing. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a block diagram of the information processing device. [Figure 4] Figure 4 shows an example of user information stored in the memory unit. [Figure 5] Figure 5 shows an example of sign information stored in the memory unit. [Figure 6] Figure 6 shows an example of installation condition information stored in the memory unit. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a flowchart showing the processing steps performed by the information processing device. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a block diagram of the information provision device. [Figure 9] Figure 9 shows an example of facility information stored in the memory unit. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a schematic diagram showing the relationship between the number of people staying and the area. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is a flowchart showing the processing procedure performed by the information providing device. [Figure 12] Figure 12 is a block diagram of the user terminal. [Figure 13] Figure 13 shows the home screen of an app. [Figure 14] Figure 14 shows an example of screen transitions in an application. [Figure 15] Figure 15 shows an example of an AR screen. [Figure 16] Figure 16 shows an example of the time axis for the second object. [Figure 17] Figure 17 is a flowchart showing the processing steps performed by the user terminal. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure executed by a user terminal.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0009] Hereinafter, embodiments according to the present invention will be described based on the drawings. Note that each of the embodiments shown below does not limit the technology disclosed by the present invention. Also, in each embodiment, the same parts are denoted by the same reference numerals, and duplicate descriptions are omitted.

[0010] First, an information processing system according to an embodiment will be described using FIG. 1. FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a configuration example of the information processing system. The information processing system S shown in FIG. 1 is a system that generates the flow information of each user based on information transmitted from user terminals 200 held by each user, and provides peripheral information and the like to each user terminal 200.

[0011] As shown in FIG. 1, the information processing system S according to the embodiment includes an information processing device 1, an information providing device 100, and a plurality of user terminals 200. The information processing device 1 generates the flow information of each user based on the information transmitted from each user terminal 200. Note that the information processing device 1 may provide the generated flow information to a local government or the like. For example, in a local government, infrastructure improvement is carried out based on the flow information.

[0012] [[ID=二十二]]The information providing device 100 provides information to each user terminal 200. For example, when the information processing system S is introduced into a tourist destination, the information providing device 100 provides tourist information such as facilities around the user.

[0013] The user terminal 200 is a terminal device held by each user. In the present disclosure, the user terminal 200 is, for example, a smartphone or a tablet terminal having a camera and a communication function.

[0014] By the way, it is possible to generate pedestrian flow information by utilizing GPS data from each user terminal 200. However, collecting GPS data from each user requires complicated processing, such as obtaining prior consent from each user to provide their GPS data.

[0015] Furthermore, for example, means by which users can obtain tourist information include brochures published by tourist associations and publishers, various travel websites created by tourist associations, and social media. However, printed brochures and similar materials do not always contain the information users are looking for.

[0016] Furthermore, when users obtain tourist information via the internet, they may not be able to find the information they want depending on the search terms they enter, or even if they do find it, it may take a long time.

[0017] As described above, there are challenges in both generating information on human movement and providing information on tourism. In response to these challenges, this disclosure provides a new service that solves the problems of both generating information on human movement and providing information on tourism.

[0018] The information processing flow according to the embodiment will be explained below using Figure 2. Figure 2 is an overview diagram of the information processing. As shown in Figure 2, the information processing system S according to the embodiment acquires user location information and provides tourist information necessary for generating pedestrian flow information based on a QR code (registered trademark). The QR code corresponds to an example of the code information on a sign T and an example of a checkpoint.

[0019] In the information processing system S according to this embodiment, QR codes are pre-installed on multiple signs T. When a user reads a QR code on a sign T with a user terminal 200 (step S1), terminal information is transmitted from the user terminal 200 to the information processing device 1 (step S2).

[0020] Terminal information includes information about an identifier for identifying user terminal 200 (or the user themselves), and information about an identifier for identifying signboard T that was read, etc.

[0021] In other words, the information processing device 1 can determine the current location of each user based on the terminal information transmitted from each user terminal 200. Subsequently, the information processing device 1 generates pedestrian flow information for each user based on the terminal information acquired from each user terminal 200 (step S3).

[0022] Specifically, the pedestrian flow information starts from the location (signboard T) of the QR code that a particular user scanned last time, and ends at the location (signboard T) of the QR code that was scanned next.

[0023] The information processing device 1 can generate pedestrian flow information for each user and integrate this information to generate pedestrian flow information for each area. The pedestrian flow information also includes information on the number of people staying in each area. The information on the number of people staying in an area is calculated, for example, based on the number of times each user has recently scanned a QR code.

[0024] In other words, the information processing device 1 assumes that the user is staying near the QR code that the user last scanned, and when the user scans a QR code in a different location, the device processes the information as if the user has moved to a different location.

[0025] Next, the information processing device 1 provides the generated pedestrian flow information to the information providing device 100 (step S4). Based on the pedestrian flow information, the information providing device 100 generates facility information around the user and provides the generated facility information to the user terminal 200 that read the QR code (step S5).

[0026] Facility information should correspond to the above-mentioned tourist information and include information about nearby tourist attractions, nearby restaurants, etc. Facility information may also include information about the congestion levels of tourist attractions and restaurants.

[0027] As described above, the information processing system S according to this embodiment provides various services based on the QR code. Therefore, the information processing system S according to this embodiment makes it possible to collect location information of each user and provide tourist information, etc. Furthermore, since the QR code only needs to be installed on a sign T, etc., it can be installed inexpensively, thus reducing initial costs.

[0028] Next, an example of the configuration of the information processing device 1 will be described using Figure 3. Figure 3 is a block diagram of the information processing device 1. As shown in Figure 3, the information processing device 1 comprises a communication unit 2, a storage unit 3, and a controller 4.

[0029] The communication unit 2 is connected to the network by wire or wireless connection and transmits and receives information with the information provision device 100 and each user terminal 200, etc., via the network.

[0030] The memory unit 3 is implemented using memory devices such as ROM (Read Only Memory), RAM (Random Access Memory), and flash memory. The memory unit 3 stores user information for each user, sign information for each sign T, and so on.

[0031] Here, we will explain the user information stored in the memory unit 3 using Figure 4. Figure 4 is a diagram showing an example of user information stored in the memory unit 3. As shown in Figure 4, user information is information that associates items such as "User ID," "Registration Information," "Activity History," and "Points Held" with each other.

[0032] The "User ID" field stores an identifier to identify each user (user terminal 200). The "Registration Information" field stores the registration information of the user identified by the corresponding User ID.

[0033] The registration information is information registered by the user in the information processing system S, and includes demographic attributes such as the user's name, age, and address, as well as psychographic attributes such as hobbies and preferences. The "Behavioral History" item stores information about the user's behavioral history, identified by the corresponding user ID.

[0034] Information regarding the user's activity history includes location information and time information for the QR code scanned by the user. Furthermore, if, for example, the user's payment information can be obtained, the activity history information may also include information about the facilities (facilities where payments were made) or stores the user visited.

[0035] The "Points Held" field stores information about the points held by a user identified by their corresponding user ID. Points are a proprietary currency provided through the information processing system S and are awarded to users when they perform a predetermined action, such as scanning a QR code.

[0036] In this disclosure, the points held include common points and area points. Common points are points that can be used in all areas, while area points are points that can only be used in specific areas.

[0037] More specifically, common points are points awarded at a uniform redemption rate for payments such as shopping and admission fees at all stores, commercial facilities, and tourist spots within a tourist area. Area points, on the other hand, are points awarded at different redemption rates for payments at individual stores and other establishments within a tourist area. For example, area points may be awarded at a relatively higher redemption rate to stores that have paid advertising fees in advance to be displayed higher in the store listings, or to stores that are running campaigns to attract customers.

[0038] Thus, in the information processing system S according to this embodiment, by awarding users points of different types, it is possible to flexibly adjust which stores are promoted for use by users.

[0039] Next, we will explain the sign information stored in the memory unit 3 using Figure 5. Figure 5 is a diagram showing an example of sign information stored in the memory unit 3. As shown in Figure 5, the sign information stores information such as "checkpoint ID," "location information," and "access history" in a manner that is associated with each other.

[0040] The "Checkpoint ID" field stores an identifier to identify each sign T (QR code). The "Location Information" field stores an identifier to identify the sign T identified by the corresponding checkpoint ID.

[0041] The "Access History" field stores the access history of signboard T, identified by its corresponding checkpoint ID. The access history includes the user ID (or terminal identifier) ​​of the user who scanned the QR code on signboard T, and information about the date and time of the scan.

[0042] Returning to the explanation of Figure 3, let's describe Controller 4. Controller 4 includes a microcomputer with a CPU (Central Processing Unit), ROM (Read Only Memory), RAM, and various circuits. Controller 4 controls the operation of the entire information processing device 1 by having the CPU execute programs stored in ROM, using RAM as a workspace. Note that Controller 4 may be composed of hardware such as an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) or FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), either partially or entirely.

[0043] Controller 4 acquires behavioral information from multiple users, determines the installation interval of signboards T based on the behavioral information, and determines the installation position of signboards T based on the installation interval. First, Controller 4 acquires terminal information and identification information of signboards T (corresponding to the checkpoint ID mentioned above) as behavioral information from the user terminal 200 that read the QR code.

[0044] For example, the user installs an application (hereinafter referred to as "app") provided by the information processing system S onto the user terminal 200 in advance and registers user information, etc. Subsequently, when the user scans a QR code through the app, the terminal information and the checkpoint ID of signboard T are transmitted as activity information from the user terminal 200 to the information processing device 1.

[0045] The information processing device 1 generates pedestrian flow information while performing various processes, such as awarding points to users, based on this behavioral information. The conditions for awarding points can be set arbitrarily. First, the information processing device 1 generates information about each user's movement history. The movement history can be generated by piecing together the locations of the signboards T where the user scanned the QR code.

[0046] The information processing device 1 aggregates this movement history to generate pedestrian flow information for each user. The information processing device 1 also determines the installation interval of the signboards T based on the pedestrian flow information. The installation interval is determined when certain conditions are met, such as when there is a change in pedestrian flow in the corresponding area, like a change of season or the appearance of a new tourist spot.

[0047] For example, controller 4 determines the spacing of signboards T based on user dwell time patterns at each location. For example, dwell time patterns are determined based on user visit history. Specifically, dwell time patterns include information such as the percentage (or number) of users visiting, the time of day they visit, and the length of stay.

[0048] For example, Controller 4 places signboards T based on locations where people tend to stay (e.g., the location with the most QR code scans), and determines the spacing between other signboards T according to each user's dwelling patterns. For example, Controller 4 shortens the distance from the base signboard T the more people are in a particular area, and shortens the distance from the base signboard T the fewer people are in that area.

[0049] In such cases, it is expected that users will be dispersed to surrounding signboards T rather than concentrating at a single signboard T. Furthermore, the spacing between signboards T does not need to be a common value for each area; a unique value may be set based on each signboard T.

[0050] In this way, the controller 4 determines the spacing between signs T by taking into account the influence of each other, thus optimizing the placement of the signs T.

[0051] The controller 4 may also determine the installation interval based on the dwelling trend and the installation conditions of the sign T. Installation condition information regarding the installation conditions of the sign T is stored in the storage unit 3 in advance.

[0052] Figure 6 shows an example of installation condition information stored in the memory unit 3. As shown in Figure 6, the installation condition information is information that associates "area ID" and "installation conditions," etc. In other words, in the example in Figure 6, the installation condition information is information that defines the installation conditions for each area.

[0053] The "Area ID" field stores an identifier to identify each area (each location). The "Installation Conditions" field stores the installation conditions for signboard T in the area identified by the corresponding Area ID. For example, the installation conditions are those set regarding the installation of signboard T in order to protect the unique landscape of the tourist area.

[0054] Controller 4 determines the installation interval based on each user's dwell time and installation conditions, so it can determine the installation interval of signboards T in consideration of the landscape of the tourist area.

[0055] The controller 4 then proposes the determined spacing of the signboards T to the administrator. The administrator then installs the signboards T at the locations determined by the controller 4. Once the administrator installs the signboards T, they register the identification information and location information of the signboards T in the storage unit 3.

[0056] This allows the controller 4 to properly grasp the identification and location information of each sign T.

[0057] Next, the processing procedure executed by the information processing device 1 according to this embodiment will be explained using Figure 7. Figure 7 is a flowchart of the processing procedure executed by the information processing device 1. Note that the processing procedure shown below is repeatedly executed by the controller 4 each time behavioral information is acquired.

[0058] As shown in Figure 7, the information processing device 1 first acquires user behavior information (step S101). Specifically, when the user reads the QR code on signboard T with the user terminal 200, the user terminal 200 transmits its identification information and the identification information of signboard T.

[0059] The information processing device 1 then acquires the identification information of the user terminal 200 and the identification information of the signboard T as behavioral information. Subsequently, the information processing device 1 updates the pedestrian flow information based on the behavioral information (step S102). That is, the information processing device 1 updates the pedestrian flow information to the latest information based on the behavioral information acquired from the user terminal 200.

[0060] Next, the information processing device 1 provides the updated pedestrian flow information to the information providing device 100, etc. (step S103). Then, the information processing device 1 determines whether or not it is time to update the sign installation location (step S104).

[0061] For example, the information processing device 1 determines that it is time to update the data based on the history of pedestrian flow information, such as when there is a change in pedestrian flow. Alternatively, the information processing device 1 may determine the update timing based on operations performed by an administrator or other relevant person.

[0062] If the information processing device 1 determines that it is time for an update (step S104; Yes), it determines the installation interval of the signboards T based on the dwell time of each user (step S105). For example, the information processing device 1 sets the installation interval of the signboards T shorter in areas with a large number of dwellers.

[0063] Next, the information processing device 1 determines the installation position of each sign T based on the determined installation interval (step S106), proposes the determined installation position (step S107), and then terminates the process. Also, if the information processing device 1 determines in the judgment in step S104 that it is not time for an update (step S104; No), it terminates the process.

[0064] As described above, the information processing device 1 according to the embodiment includes a controller 4. The controller 4 acquires behavioral information of multiple users, determines the spacing between signs based on the behavioral information, and determines the installation position of the signs based on the spacing.

[0065] Therefore, according to the information processing device 1 of the embodiment, the installation position of the signs T can be determined by taking into account the influence of each other on the signs T.

[0066] Next, the information providing device 100 will be described. First, an example of the configuration of the information providing device 100 according to this embodiment will be described using Figure 8. Figure 8 is a block diagram of the information providing device 100.

[0067] As shown in Figure 8, the information providing device 100 includes a communication unit 102, a storage unit 103, and a controller 104. The communication unit 102 is connected to the network by wire or wireless and transmits and receives information between the information processing device 1 and each user terminal 200, etc., via the network.

[0068] The storage unit 103 is implemented by a storage device such as ROM, RAM, or flash memory. The storage unit 103 stores facility information and other information related to the facilities provided to each user. Here, the facility information stored in the storage unit 103 will be explained using Figure 9. Figure 9 is a diagram showing an example of facility information stored in the storage unit 103. As shown in Figure 9, the facility information includes information on items such as "facility ID," "location information," "facility type," "business information," "congestion status," "access history," and "usage history."

[0069] The "Facility ID" field stores an identifier to identify each facility. The "Location Information" field stores the location information (i.e., address) of the facility identified by the corresponding Facility ID. The "Business Information" field stores the business information of the facility identified by the corresponding Facility ID. Business information includes business hours, information on holidays, etc. Business information may also include information such as the average length of stay at the corresponding facility.

[0070] The "Congestion Status" field stores the congestion status of the facility identified by the corresponding facility ID. The congestion status is calculated, for example, based on pedestrian flow information provided by the information processing device 1.

[0071] The "Access History" field stores the access history of facilities identified by the corresponding facility ID, while the "Usage History" field stores the usage history of facilities identified by the corresponding facility ID.

[0072] In this disclosure, as described above, users who scan the QR code will be provided with information containing information about nearby facilities (hereinafter referred to as "provided information"). The provided information serves as a kind of summary site for facilities around the user, and from the perspective of the facilities, it can be considered an advertising medium for those facilities.

[0073] The "Access History" mentioned above refers to the access history to the facility information listed in the provided information, while the "Usage History" refers to the history of users who actually used the facilities after viewing the facility information listed in the provided information.

[0074] Furthermore, the memory unit 103 may also store operation logs, which are aggregated access history and usage history, in association with the data. The operation logs are collected not only to improve the screen and usability of the application, as described later in Figure 13, but also to pinpoint the cause of problems and identify fraudulent operations.

[0075] Returning to the explanation of Figure 8, let's describe the controller 104. The controller 104 includes a microcomputer with a CPU, ROM, RAM, and various circuits. The controller 104 controls the operation of the entire information providing device 100 by having the CPU execute a program stored in ROM, using RAM as a workspace. Note that the controller 104 may be partially or entirely composed of hardware such as an ASIC or FPGA.

[0076] The controller 104 acquires behavioral trend information, including the location information of each user, determines the facility information to be provided to the target user based on the target user's behavioral trends and the behavioral trend information of users around the target user, and provides the facility information to the target user.

[0077] First, the controller 104 obtains the identification information of the user who scanned the QR code and the location information of signboard T from the information processing device 1, and sets the user who scanned the QR code as the target user. The controller 104 also obtains pedestrian flow information, including the current area where each user is staying, from the information processing device 1 as dwelling trend information.

[0078] Next, the controller 104 determines the information to be provided to the target user based on the pedestrian flow information. For example, the controller 104 provides facility information around the sign T where the target user scanned the QR code as the information to be provided.

[0079] In this case, the controller 104 can use, for example, the following methods when proposing facility information. (1) Based on the registration information provided when using the service, one method involves deriving behavioral tendencies that align with the user's individual hobbies and preferences, and then making suggestions based on the location where the QR code was scanned. (2) A method that makes suggestions based on the user's personal hobbies and preferences and past activity history, starting from the location where the QR code was scanned. (3) A method that uses information processing system S to collect user hobby and preference information (data), derives behavioral tendencies based on information such as age and gender, and makes suggestions starting from the location where the QR code was scanned. (4) A method that uses information processing system S to collect user hobby and preference information (data), derives behavioral tendencies based on information such as age and gender, derives behavioral tendencies that match the individual hobby and preference of the user who read the QR code, compares the behavioral tendencies derived from both, and then proposes information that the user is likely to want, starting from the location where the QR code was read.

[0080] Furthermore, the controller 104 sets the area to be provided as facility information based on the number of people present around the target user. Here, the relationship between the number of people present and the area will be explained using Figure 10. Figure 10 is a schematic diagram showing the relationship between the number of people present and the area.

[0081] As shown in Figure 10, for example, suppose the number of people in the area where the first sign T1 is installed is greater than the number of people in the area where the second sign T2 is installed. In such a case, for example, the information provision area W1 provided in the area where the first sign T1 is installed is made larger than the information provision area W2 provided in the area where the second sign T2 is installed.

[0082] In other words, the controller 104 sets information provision areas W1 and W2 so that the range of information provision is narrowed in areas with high foot traffic and widened in areas with low foot traffic.

[0083] In this way, by narrowing the information provision area, it becomes possible to comprehensively provide information on each facility, including hidden spots that might be overlooked if the information provision area is wide. In addition, for areas with a large number of visitors, such as the second sign T2, the controller 104 may set the area excluding the second sign T2 as the information provision area W2b.

[0084] For example, information provision area W2b is an area with fewer visitors or a larger overall capacity compared to the area around the second sign T2. ​​In other words, by designating an area that does not include the second sign T2 as an information provision area, it is expected that users around the second sign T2 will be guided to other areas. This means that the number of visitors in each area can be expected to be leveled out.

[0085] Once the controller 104 has finished setting the information provision area, it extracts facility information included in that information provision area from the storage unit 103. Then, the controller 104 generates provision information that includes the extracted facility information.

[0086] In this case, the controller 104 determines the display order of facility information based on, for example, behavioral trend information. For example, the behavioral trend information here includes usage records accessed via the provided information and the number of times facility information provided as provided information has been accessed.

[0087] The controller 104 determines the display order of facility information so that facilities with high usage records or high access counts are displayed higher. The controller 104 may also determine the display order based on whether the facility is open for business or its congestion level.

[0088] The controller 104 generates information based on the determined display order and provides the generated information to the user terminal 200 of the user (target user) who read the QR code.

[0089] Thus, in the information processing system S according to this embodiment, information about surrounding facilities is provided to the user who reads the QR code, so the user can easily obtain information about nearby tourist attractions.

[0090] Next, the processing procedure performed by the information providing device 100 according to this embodiment will be described using Figure 11. Figure 11 is a flowchart of the processing procedure performed by the information providing device 100. Note that the processing described below is repeatedly performed by the controller 104 each time terminal information and pedestrian flow information are acquired.

[0091] As shown in Figure 11, the controller 104 acquires terminal information and pedestrian flow information (step S201). Specifically, the controller 104 acquires terminal information and pedestrian flow information of the user who read the QR code from the information processing device 1.

[0092] Next, the controller 104 calculates the area in which facility information will be displayed according to the number of people present (step S202). For example, the controller 104 calculates a smaller area for displaying facility information the more people present around the user who scanned the QR code, and a larger area for displaying facility information the fewer people present.

[0093] Next, the controller 104 determines the display order of the facility information (step S203). Specifically, the controller 104 determines the display order of the facility information based on usage history, access history, etc.

[0094] Then, the controller 104 provides the user who read the QR code with the information generated based on the processing results up to step S203 (step S204), and terminates the process.

[0095] As described above, the information providing device 100 according to the embodiment includes a controller 104. The controller 104 acquires behavioral tendency information for each user, determines the information to be provided to the target user based on the target user's behavioral tendencies and the behavioral tendency information of users around the target user, and provides the information to the target user.

[0096] Therefore, according to the information providing device 100 of this embodiment, the information to be provided to the target user is determined based on the behavioral tendencies of the people around it, making it possible to provide information that is appropriate for the user.

[0097] Next, the various processes performed by the user terminal 200 will be described. Figure 12 is a block diagram of the user terminal 200. As shown in Figure 12, the user terminal 200 includes a communication unit 202, a camera 203, a touch panel display 204, a sensor 205, a storage unit 206, and a controller 207.

[0098] The communication unit 202 is connected to the network by wire or wireless connection and transmits and receives information with the information processing device 1, information providing device 100, etc., via the network.

[0099] Camera 203 is an imaging device equipped with an image sensor such as a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) or CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor). Touch panel display 204 is a display that serves as both a display unit and an operation unit. Sensor 205 includes a gyro sensor, a G sensor, and a GPS antenna, etc.

[0100] The storage unit 206 is implemented by a storage device such as ROM, RAM, or flash memory. The storage unit 206 stores information provision programs, display control programs, and the like according to the embodiment.

[0101] The controller 207 includes a microcomputer with a CPU, ROM, RAM, and various circuits. The controller 207 controls the operation of the entire user terminal 200 by having the CPU execute a program stored in ROM, using RAM as a workspace. The controller 207 may be partially or entirely composed of hardware such as an ASIC or FPGA.

[0102] The controller 207 executes an application (hereinafter referred to as "app") provided by the information processing system S. Specifically, the controller 207 displays a map that includes areas where facility information is not displayed, and when a checkpoint is captured by the camera, it receives the facility information for the area corresponding to the checkpoint. Then, the controller 207 releases the map that displays the facility information.

[0103] Here, we will explain an example of the app's home screen using Figure 13. Figure 13 is a diagram showing the app's home screen. As shown in Figure 13, the home screen SCH displays the map Ma and buttons B1 to B5. The map Ma displays sign icons Ts indicating the location of sign T and facility icons Sp indicating facilities within the map Ma.

[0104] Button B1 displays the home screen, including Map Ma. Button B2 displays the scanning screen for reading QR codes. Button B3 displays the facility information shown on Map Ma.

[0105] Button B4 displays a screen showing the user's points balance. Button B5 displays the settings screen.

[0106] Figure 13 shows the screen after the user has scanned the QR code on signboard T located at the signboard icon Ts.

[0107] Next, we will explain the screen transitions in the application using Figure 14. Figure 14 is a diagram showing an example of the application's screen transitions. As mentioned above, the home screen SCH displays a map. In this disclosure, when the QR code on a sign T installed in a corresponding area is scanned, the map displays a facility icon Sp corresponding to the facility.

[0108] In other words, on the home screen SCH shown in Figure 14, the user has already scanned the QR code on the sign T installed on map Ma1, so the facility icon Sp corresponding to the facility on map Ma1 is displayed.

[0109] Furthermore, in the home screen SCH shown in Figure 14, the facility icon Sp corresponding to the facility on map Ma2 is not displayed because the user has not scanned the QR code on sign T installed on map Ma2.

[0110] Thus, when a checkpoint is captured by the camera 203, the controller 207 releases and displays the map of the area corresponding to the checkpoint, receives facility information for the area whose map has been released, and provides the facility information.

[0111] As a result, in this disclosure, when a user visits a new area, they will be provided with a map of the visited area along with information about the facilities in that area, which can increase the motivation for users to unlock maps of new areas.

[0112] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 14, on the home screen SCH, the facility icon Sp is not displayed on the map Ma2, but the sign icon Ts and the current location icon P, which indicates the user's current location, are displayed.

[0113] Thus, in this disclosure, even in areas where the map is not available, the location of the sign icon Ts can be notified to the user by displaying the sign icon Ts. As a result, in this disclosure, the user can be properly guided to the sign icon T even in areas where the map is not available.

[0114] Next, we will explain the QR code reading screen SC1. The reading screen SC1 is the screen that appears when button B2, shown in Figure 13, is selected. As shown in Figure 14, the reading screen SC1 displays text such as "Please let me read the QR code" and the camera image from camera 203. The user can read the QR code installed on signboard T through the reading screen SC1.

[0115] This section describes the SC2 facility information display screen. The SC2 facility information display screen is displayed when button B3, shown in Figure 13, is selected. As shown in Figure 14, the SC2 display screen shows location information of signboard T where the QR code was read, and facility information for the area unlocked by reading the QR code. For example, as shown in Figure 14, the facility information includes information such as the facility's address, business hours, and current crowding status.

[0116] For example, the controller 207 will acquire this information from the information provider 100 and display it on the screen. In this case, it is preferable that the information displayed, such as congestion status, be the most up-to-date information at the time the QR code is scanned. This will allow the user to check the current congestion status of each facility.

[0117] Next, we will explain the points confirmation screen SC3. The points confirmation screen SC3 is a button that appears when button B4, shown in Figure 13, is selected. For example, the points confirmation screen SC3 displays the current points held and the point acquisition history. For example, in the example in Figure 14, it is shown that 2 points were acquired for each of the QR codes on signs A to C.

[0118] Furthermore, the conditions for earning points are not limited to unlocking maps. For example, points could be earned by visiting multiple sign T locations in a rally format, submitting photos, or rating facilities.

[0119] Furthermore, as mentioned above, points include multiple types, such as overall points which are valid for the entire area, and area points which are valid for a specific area.

[0120] Furthermore, the controller 207 may accept posts such as photos to the SNS provided by the information processing system S. For example, the controller 207 may accept posts from users related to the current area. That is, the controller 207 may restrict the content of posts and only accept posts related to the current area.

[0121] Furthermore, the aforementioned social networking services could implement access restrictions linked to users' maps. Specifically, users could only view posts related to areas they have themselves made available on their maps. This is expected to increase users' motivation to make new areas available on their maps.

[0122] Furthermore, in addition to 2D maps, the controller 207 can also display 3D maps through the app. For example, the controller 207 provides a 3D map using AR (Augmented Reality) technology.

[0123] For example, the controller 207 overlays an object representing a facility onto the camera image captured by the camera 203, based on facility information acquired from the information providing device 100 and location information from the user terminal 200.

[0124] First, the controller 207 calculates the direction and distance from the user terminal 200 to the facility based on the location of the facility and the location of the user terminal 200. Next, the controller 207 determines whether or not the facility is included in the field of view of the camera 203.

[0125] Then, if the controller 207 determines that a facility is included in the field of view of the camera 203, it overlays an object onto the location of the facility in the camera image. In this disclosure, the controller 207 overlays an object that indicates the time-series congestion status of each facility.

[0126] Here, we will explain a specific example of an AR screen in which objects are superimposed on a camera image using Figure 15. Figure 15 is a diagram showing an example of an AR screen. In the example shown in Figure 15, the AR screen Ga displays the first objects Oa1 to Oa4 and the second objects Ob1 to Ob4 superimposed on the camera image.

[0127] The first objects Oa1 to Oa4 are objects that show basic information about the corresponding facilities. For example, as shown in Figure 15, the first objects Oa1 to Oa4 display the name of the corresponding facility and text indicating the distance from the current location to the corresponding facility.

[0128] Furthermore, the first objects Oa1 to Oa4 may display facility evaluation information (e.g., reviews). The second objects Ob1 to Ob4 are objects that indicate the congestion status of the corresponding facility.

[0129] For example, the size of the second object Ob1 to Ob4 changes depending on the distance to the facility. Specifically, the shorter the distance to the corresponding facility, the larger each object becomes, and the longer the distance to the facility, the smaller each object becomes.

[0130] In this way, the controller 207 can allow users to intuitively understand the distance to a facility by changing the size of the object according to the distance to the facility.

[0131] In this disclosure, the second objects Ob1 to Ob4 are objects that show the congestion status of the corresponding facilities in chronological order. More specifically, the second objects Ob1 to Ob4 are figures that show the degree of congestion for each time period, for example, cylindrical figures.

[0132] Here, we will explain the time axis of the second object Ob using Figure 16. Figure 16 is a diagram showing an example of the time axis of the second object Ob. For example, as shown in Figure 16, the second object Ob has the time axis on the vertical axis.

[0133] Specifically, the second object, Ob, defines areas that show congestion levels in one-hour increments starting from the current time. The second object, Ob, displays the congestion level corresponding to each time in the area corresponding to that time.

[0134] For example, in the second object Ob, the color of the area corresponding to each time point changes according to the level of congestion. For instance, the more congested an area is, the more red it is displayed, and the less congested it is, the more blue it is displayed. In other words, the congestion level for each time point is displayed as a gradient from red to blue.

[0135] In this way, the controller 207 allows users to properly understand the congestion status of each facility by superimposing an object showing the time-series congestion status of each facility onto the camera image.

[0136] Furthermore, in addition to the first object Oa and the second object Ob mentioned above, the controller 207 may also display the route to the facility superimposed on the camera image. For example, in such a case, the controller 207 calculates the route to the user-defined destination facility and displays an object indicating the route on the camera image. This allows the user to understand the route to their destination through the camera image.

[0137] Next, Figures 17 and 18 will be used to explain the processing steps performed by the user terminal 200. Figures 17 and 18 are flowcharts showing the processing steps performed by the user terminal 200.

[0138] First, let's explain the processing related to the two-dimensional map using Figure 17. As shown in Figure 17, the controller 207 determines whether or not the QR code for the new area has been read (step S301).

[0139] If the controller 207 determines that the QR code for a new area has been read (step S301; Yes), it releases the map of the new area for which the QR code was read (step S302).

[0140] Next, the controller 207 receives facility information for the newly unlocked area on the map (step S303), provides the received facility information for the new area (step S304), and terminates the process. Also, if the controller 207 determines in the determination in step S301 that the QR code for the new area has not been read (step S301; No), it terminates the process.

[0141] Next, we will explain the processing related to the 3D map using Figure 18. As shown in Figure 18, the controller 207 calculates the direction and distance to each facility within the area (step S311).

[0142] Next, the controller 207 determines whether or not the facility is included in the field of view of the camera 203 (step S312). If the controller 207 determines that the facility is included in the field of view of the camera 203 (step S312; Yes), it displays the congestion status of the facility in chronological order on the camera image (step S313) and terminates the process.

[0143] Furthermore, if the controller 207 determines in step S312 that the facility is not included in the field of view of the camera 203 (step S312; No), it terminates the process.

[0144] As described above, the user terminal 200 according to the embodiment is a terminal device having a camera 203 and a controller 207. When a checkpoint is captured by the camera 203, the controller 207 releases and displays the map of the area corresponding to the checkpoint, receives facility information of the area whose map has been released, and provides the received facility information.

[0145] Therefore, according to the user terminal 200 of this embodiment, when a user visits a new area, the facility status of the area is provided along with a map of the visited area, which can increase the user's motivation to unlock maps of new areas.

[0146] Furthermore, as described above, the user terminal 200 according to the embodiment is a terminal device having a controller 207 that displays facility information and congestion information for the facility. The controller 207 calculates the direction and distance from the user terminal 200 to the facility based on the location of the facility and the location of the user terminal 200. In addition, if the facility is included in the field of view of the camera 203 of the user terminal 200, the controller 207 superimposes an object indicating the time-series congestion level onto the location of the facility on the camera image.

[0147] Therefore, according to the user terminal 200 of this embodiment, the time-series congestion status of the facility captured in the camera image is superimposed and displayed, allowing the user to appropriately understand the congestion status of the facility.

[0148] While embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These embodiments can be carried out in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their variations are included in the scope and spirit of the invention, as well as in the claims and their equivalents. [Explanation of symbols]

[0149] 1. Information Processing Device 2,102,202 Communications Department 3,103,206 Storage section 4,104,207 controllers 100 Information provision device 200 user terminals 203 Camera 204 Touch Panel Display 205 Sensor S Information Processing System

Claims

1. It has a controller, The aforementioned controller, We acquire behavioral information including the location information of multiple users, Based on the aforementioned behavioral information, the interval between signs for providing information is determined. The installation position of the sign is determined based on the aforementioned installation interval. Information processing device.

2. The aforementioned controller, When the user's terminal device reads the information on the sign, the terminal information transmitted from the terminal device and the location information of the sign are acquired as the behavioral information. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.

3. The aforementioned controller, Based on the terminal information obtained from multiple users and the installation location information of the sign, pedestrian flow information is generated. The information processing apparatus according to claim 2.

4. The aforementioned controller, The installation interval is determined based on the user's dwell time at each location, which is derived from the aforementioned behavioral information. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.

5. The aforementioned controller, The installation interval is determined based on the aforementioned behavioral information and the installation conditions of the sign. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.

6. The aforementioned controller, The installation interval is determined based on the facility that attracts customers with the aforementioned sign. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.

7. The aforementioned controller, The placement of other signs is determined based on the aforementioned reference sign. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.

8. Procedures for obtaining behavioral information including location information of multiple users, A procedure for determining the interval between signs for providing information based on the aforementioned behavioral information, A procedure for determining the installation position of the sign based on the aforementioned installation interval, and An information processing program that causes a computer to execute something.

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