Message system, control method, and program

Abstract

This invention provides a message control server, a message control terminal, and a program that allow users to easily identify messages relevant to them in an image where messages are arranged chronologically. [Solution] The message control server communicates with a terminal that displays an image in which the messages of multiple users are arranged in chronological order. The message acquisition means acquires the messages entered by each user, the destination acquisition means acquires destination information indicating the destination of the message, and the transmission means sends data to each user's terminal to display the image. Based on the destination information, the transmission means sends the messages entered addressed to the destination and the messages entered by users other than the destination who are addressed to a different destination to the destination, and sends data to the destination to display an image that distinguishes between the messages entered addressed to the destination and the messages entered by users other than the destination who are addressed to a different destination.

Description

Technical Field

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[0001] The present invention relates to a message control server, a message control terminal, and a program.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, there has been known a technique for causing a terminal to display an image in which messages of a plurality of users are arranged in time series. For example, Patent Document 1 describes a terminal that arranges and displays messages of each user participating in a chat in time series, specifies the correlation relationship between users based on the messages, and displays the users having a correlation relationship in different colors in the list of all users.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In the above-described technique, when the number of messages displayed in time series increases, it becomes difficult for the user to identify which messages are relevant to himself / herself. However, even if users having a correlation relationship are displayed in different colors in the list as in Patent Document 1, since only the relationship between users can be understood, the user has to check each message to determine whether it is relevant to himself / herself.

[0005] The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and an object thereof is to provide a message control server, a message control terminal, and a program that enable a user to easily identify messages relevant to himself / herself in an image in which messages are arranged in time series.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] To solve the above problems, the message control server according to the present invention is a message control server that communicates with a terminal that displays an image in which the messages of multiple users are arranged in chronological order, and is characterized by including a message acquisition means for acquiring messages entered by each user, a destination acquisition means for acquiring destination information indicating the destination of the message, and a means for transmitting data for displaying the image on each user's terminal, and based on the destination information, the transmission means for transmitting to the destination the message entered addressed to the destination and the message entered by a user other than the destination user addressed to a destination other than the destination user, and transmitting to the destination data for displaying an image that distinguishes between the message entered addressed to the destination and the message entered by a user other than the destination user addressed to a destination other than the destination.

[0007] The message control terminal according to the present invention is a message control terminal that displays an image in which the messages of multiple users are arranged in chronological order, and is characterized by including a message acquisition means for acquiring messages entered by each user, a destination acquisition means for acquiring destination information indicating the recipient of the message, and a display control means for displaying an image that distinguishes between messages entered addressed to a user and messages entered by a user other than the user and addressed to a person other than the user, based on the destination information.

[0008] The program according to the present invention causes a computer that communicates with a terminal that displays an image in which the messages of multiple users are arranged in chronological order to function as a message acquisition means for acquiring messages entered by each user, a destination acquisition means for acquiring destination information indicating the destination of the message, and a transmission means for transmitting data for displaying the image to each user's terminal, wherein, based on the destination information, the computer transmits to the destination messages that were entered addressed to the destination and messages entered by users other than the destination user that were addressed to a destination other than the destination, and transmits to the destination data for displaying an image that distinguishes between the messages entered addressed to the destination and messages entered by users other than the destination user that were addressed to a destination other than the destination.

[0009] The program according to the present invention causes a computer that displays an image in which the messages of multiple users are arranged in chronological order to function as a message acquisition means for acquiring messages entered by each user, a destination acquisition means for acquiring destination information indicating the recipient of the message, and a display control means for displaying an image that distinguishes between messages entered addressed to a user and messages entered by a user other than the user and addressed to someone other than the user, based on the destination information. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] [Figure 1] This figure shows the overall configuration of the message control system according to the embodiment. [Figure 2] This figure shows an example of a chat image displayed on user A's device. [Figure 3] This figure shows an example of a chat image when User A specifies User X's avatar image. [Figure 4] This figure shows an example of a chat image displayed on user X's terminal. [Figure 5] This is a functional block diagram showing the functions related to the present invention among the functions implemented in the message control system. [Figure 6]It is a diagram showing an example of data storage in a message database. [Figure 7] It is a flowchart showing the processes executed by a message control system. [Figure 8] It is a diagram showing details of the processes executed in S7. [Figure 9] It is a functional block diagram of a modification example. [Figure 10] It is a diagram showing an example of data storage in the message database in a modification example. [Figure 11] It is a diagram showing an example of a chat image of User A. [Figure 12] It is a diagram showing an example of a chat image of User A. [Figure 13] It is a diagram showing changes in the chat image when User A designates a reply message. [Figure 14] It is a diagram showing changes in the chat image when User A designates the original message. [Figure 15] It is a diagram showing an example of data storage in the message database of this modification example. [Figure 16] It is a diagram showing an example of a chat image of User A. [Figure 17] It is a diagram showing changes in the chat image when User A designates a message. [Figure 18] It is a diagram showing an example of chat image 30 of User A. [Figure 19] It is a diagram showing a comparative example of message image 32. [Figure 20] It is a diagram showing changes in chat image 30 when User A selects avatar image 34 of User X.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0011] [1. Overall Configuration of Message Control System] Hereinafter, examples of embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail based on the drawings. In this embodiment, a case where the message control server according to the present invention is applied to a message control system that controls a chat in which a plurality of users participate will be described as an example.

[0012] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the overall configuration of a message control system according to an embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the message control system 1 includes a message control server 10 and a plurality of terminals 20. The message control server 10 and each terminal 20 are connected to each other via a communication network 2 so as to be able to transmit and receive data.

[0013] The message control server 10 is realized by a server computer. As shown in FIG. 1, the message control server 10 includes a control unit 11, a storage unit 12, and a communication unit 13. The control unit 11 includes, for example, a microprocessor or the like, and executes processing according to an operating system and other programs. The storage unit 12 includes a main storage unit (for example, RAM) and an auxiliary storage unit (for example, a hard disk drive or a solid state drive). The communication unit 13 is for performing data communication via the communication network 2.

[0014] The terminal 20 is a computer operated by a user. For example, the terminal 20 is realized by a mobile phone (including a smartphone), a portable information terminal (including a tablet computer), a game machine, or a personal computer. As shown in FIG. 1, the terminal 20 includes a control unit 21, a storage unit 22, a communication unit 23, an operation unit 24, and a display unit 25.

[0015] The control unit 21, the storage unit 22, and the communication unit 23 are the same as the control unit 11, the storage unit 12, and the communication unit 13 of the message control server 10. The operation unit 24 is an input device, for example, a touch panel or the like. The display unit 25 is, for example, a liquid crystal display panel or an organic EL display, and displays a screen according to an instruction from the control unit 21.

[0016] In this embodiment, the programs and data described as being stored in the storage unit 12 and the storage unit 22 may be supplied to the message control server 10 or the terminal 20 via the communication network 2, for example. The message control server 10 or the terminal 20 may also include components for reading programs or data stored on a computer-readable information storage medium (e.g., a memory card). The programs and data may then be supplied to the message control server 10 or the terminal 20 via the information storage medium.

[0017] [2. Chat performed in the message control system] Next, we will explain the chat process performed in the message control system 1, using an example of four users who are playing a game together and discussing their strategy. Here, these four users will be referred to as users A, X, Y, and Z, respectively.

[0018] Figure 2 shows an example of a chat image displayed on user A's terminal 20. As shown in Figure 2, the chat image 30 contains message images 32A to 32H (hereinafter referred to collectively as message image 32) representing the messages of multiple users, arranged in chronological order.

[0019] A message is the content of information transmitted between users, and consists of, for example, a sequence of symbols entered by each user or an image specified by the user. Here, a sequence of symbols includes a string of characters (text). Furthermore, messages being arranged chronologically means that the message images 32 are displayed on the screen in the order in which they were entered (sent).

[0020] The t-axis in Figure 2 represents the time axis. In the example screen in Figure 2, message image 32A shows the most recent message, and message image 32H shows the oldest message. In other words, in the chat image 30, newer message images 32 are displayed as you move in a predetermined direction (upward in Figure 2), and older message images 32 are displayed as you move in the opposite direction (downward in Figure 2), so that the messages are arranged in chronological order.

[0021] Furthermore, the chat image 30 displays the avatar images 34A to 34H (hereinafter collectively referred to as avatar image 34) of the user who entered the message. For example, in user A's chat image 30, the avatar images 34 of users other than user A (i.e., users X, Y, and Z) are displayed near one end (the left end in Figure 2), and user A's avatar image 34 is displayed near the opposite end (the right end in Figure 2). Note that the area near the end refers to the region from the edge of the screen to a predetermined distance (for example, the region from the edge to pixels a predetermined number of pixels away).

[0022] In this embodiment, each user can input a message by specifying a recipient. The recipient is the person to whom the message is to be sent, terminal 20, or account. For example, message images 32B and 32F show messages from user X to user A, and message image 32C shows a message from user A to user X. Furthermore, message image 32E shows a message from user X to user Y, and message image 32G shows a message from user Y to user X.

[0023] As shown in Figure 2, in user A's chat image 30, message images 32B and 32F, which show messages addressed to user A, and message images 32E and 32G, which show messages addressed to users other than user A (i.e., users X, Y, or Z), are displayed differently. For example, message images 32B and 32F are in a first color (shown as diagonal lines in Figure 2) and include an arrow pointing to the right. On the other hand, message images 32E and 32G are in a second color (shown as halftones in Figure 2) and do not include an arrow. Instead, message images 32E and 32G are accompanied by destination images 36E and 36G, which indicate the recipient.

[0024] User A can enter a message while viewing the chat image 30 displayed as described above. For example, when User A performs a predetermined operation, an input form for entering a new message will appear. User A then enters a new message and specifies the recipient in this input form. Note that the input form for entering a new message may be displayed even without any predetermined operation being performed.

[0025] Furthermore, in this embodiment, when user A specifies an avatar image 34 of user X, Y, or Z, an input form is displayed for entering a message addressed to the user indicated by that avatar image 34.

[0026] Figure 3 shows an example of a chat image 30 when User A specifies User X's avatar image 34. As shown in Figure 3, User X is specified in the recipient field 40 for specifying the message recipient in the input form 38. User A enters text or other information in the message input field 42. After that, when User A selects the send button 44, a message addressed to User X can be sent.

[0027] The message image 32 (message image 32C in Figures 2 and 3), which shows a message entered by user A to user X, is the third color in user A's chat image 30 (shown by vertical lines in Figures 2 and 3) and includes a left-pointing arrow. In addition, the message image 32C shown in Figures 2 and 3 is accompanied by a recipient image 36C indicating that it is a message addressed to user X.

[0028] Furthermore, in this embodiment, each user can send a message to all users or send a message without specifying a recipient. In the examples in Figures 2 and 3, the message images 32D and 32H of messages sent to all users or without specifying a recipient will be a fourth color (shown in white in Figures 2 and 3).

[0029] While Figures 2 and 3 illustrate user A's chat image 30, a similar chat image 30 is also displayed on the terminals 20 of users X, Y, and Z. However, since user A is not the one viewing the chat image 30, the content of the chat image 30 displayed differs for each of users X, Y, and Z, allowing them to distinguish between messages addressed to themselves and messages addressed to others.

[0030] Figure 4 shows an example of a chat image 30 displayed on user X's terminal 20. As shown in Figure 4, message images 32C and 32G are messages addressed to user X, so they are the first color and include a right-pointing arrow. Note that in this case, users A, Y, and Z have not entered any messages addressed to anyone other than user X, so message images 32 of the second color are not displayed. Message images 32B, 32E, and 32F are messages entered by user X, so they are the third color and include a left-pointing arrow. Message images 32A and 32D are messages addressed to the entire user or messages with no recipient specified, so they are the fourth color.

[0031] As described above, the message control system 1 of this embodiment is configured such that, in the chat image 30 which displays messages in chronological order, the user can easily identify messages that are relevant to them. The processes for realizing this technology will be described in detail below.

[0032] [3. Functions implemented in the message control system] Figure 5 is a functional block diagram showing the functions related to the present invention among the functions implemented in the message control system 1. Here, the functions implemented in each terminal 20 will be explained, followed by the functions implemented in the message control server 10. Note that in Figure 5, only one terminal 20 is shown for simplification, but the same functions are implemented in each terminal 20. Also, among the functions shown in Figure 5, those other than the message acquisition unit 70, destination acquisition unit 72, and transmission / reception unit 74 may be omitted.

[0033] [3-1. Functions implemented on each device] Each terminal 20 implements a message input unit 60, a destination specification unit 62, a transmission / reception unit 64, and a display control unit 66. The message input unit 60 and destination specification unit 62 are mainly implemented by the control unit 21 and the operation unit 24, the transmission / reception unit 64 is mainly implemented by the control unit 21 and the communication unit 23, and the display control unit 66 is mainly implemented by the control unit 21 and the display unit 25.

[0034] [Message input section] The message input unit 60 accepts message input. For example, the message input unit 60 accepts the input of a sequence of symbols or the specification of an image by the user. The image included in the message may be stored in the terminal 20 or in the message control server 10.

[0035] [Recipient designation section] The destination designation unit 62 accepts the designation of a destination. The destination designation unit 62 accepts the designation of at least one user. In this embodiment, a chat with multiple users is realized, so the destination designation unit 62 accepts the designation of at least one user participating in the chat.

[0036] In this embodiment, we describe a case where only one user can be specified as the recipient, but as will be explained in the modified examples below, it may be possible to specify multiple users as recipients. Also, in this embodiment, it is possible to specify all users as recipients, so the recipient specification unit 62 accepts the specification of all users. That is, the recipient specification unit 62 can accept all users participating in the chat as recipients.

[0037] [Transceiver Unit] The transmitting / receiving unit 64 sends and receives various data with the transmitting / receiving unit 74. For example, the transmitting / receiving unit 64 transmits messages received by the message input unit 60 and destination information received by the destination specification unit 62. In addition, the transmitting / receiving unit 64 may transmit various user operations. Furthermore, the transmitting / receiving unit 64 receives data sent by the transmitting / receiving unit 74, which will be described later, for displaying the chat image 30.

[0038] [Display Control Unit] The display control unit 66 displays the chat image 30 on the display unit 25 based on the data transmitted by the transmitting / receiving unit 74, which will be described later.

[0039] [3-2. Functions implemented by the message control server] The message control server 10 implements a data storage unit 68, a message acquisition unit 70, a destination acquisition unit 72, and a transmission / reception unit 74. For example, the data storage unit 68 is mainly implemented by the storage unit 12, while the message acquisition unit 70, destination acquisition unit 72, and transmission / reception unit 74 are mainly implemented by the control unit 11 and the communication unit 13.

[0040] [Data Storage Unit] The data storage unit 68 stores a message database that stores various data related to messages. Figure 6 shows an example of data storage in the message database. As shown in Figure 6, the message database stores associated message ID, sender information, recipient information, message, and time information.

[0041] The message ID is information used to uniquely identify each message. The sender information is information that identifies the user who entered (sent) the message. The recipient information is information that indicates the recipient of the message. If no recipient is specified for the message, nothing will be stored in the recipient information. The time information is the time the message was entered. The time information may show the date and time, or it may show only the time.

[0042] The data stored in the data storage unit 68 is not limited to the examples above. The data storage unit 68 only needs to store data necessary for users to exchange messages. For example, in this embodiment, the data storage unit 68 stores data for displaying chat images 30 for each user. The data storage unit 68 may also store information that identifies users participating in the chat, as well as detailed information about each user. In addition, the data storage unit 68 may store various image data such as message images 32 and avatar images 34.

[0043] [Message acquisition section] The message acquisition unit 70 acquires messages entered by each user. The message acquisition unit 70 acquires messages received by the message input unit 60 of each terminal 20 via the transmission / reception unit 74. The messages acquired by the message acquisition unit 70 are stored in the message database.

[0044] [Destination acquisition unit] The destination acquisition unit 72 acquires destination information indicating the recipient of the message. The destination acquisition unit 72 acquires destination information indicating the recipient received by the destination specification unit 62 of each terminal 20 via the transmission / reception unit 74. The destination information acquired by the destination acquisition unit 72 is stored in the message database.

[0045] [Transceiver Unit] The transmitting / receiving unit 74 transmits and receives various data with the transmitting / receiving unit 64. For example, the transmitting / receiving unit 74 receives messages and destination information sent by the transmitting / receiving unit 64.

[0046] The transmitting / receiving unit 74 transmits data to each user's terminal 20 to display the chat image 30. In other words, the transmitting / receiving unit 74 transmits data to each user's terminal 20 to display the chat image 30 on that terminal 20. The data transmitted by the transmitting / receiving unit 74 can be in any format that allows the display unit 25 to display an image, for example, HTML format data. Furthermore, in this explanation, it is assumed that the transmitting / receiving unit 74 generates the data to be transmitted.

[0047] The transmitting / receiving unit 74 sends messages entered addressed to the recipient and messages entered by a user other than the recipient, addressed to a different user, to the recipient based on the destination information, and also sends data to the recipient to display a chat image 30 that distinguishes between messages entered addressed to the recipient and messages entered by a user other than the recipient, addressed to a different user.

[0048] The recipient is the user, terminal 20, or account to which the transmitting / receiving unit 74 sends data (the recipient of the data). In this embodiment, the case where the "recipient" is the user of the recipient is explained, but it is not limited to the recipient of the data. For example, the recipient user can be the user operating the terminal 20, or the user corresponding to the chat image 30 (the user viewing the chat image 30). In this embodiment, the recipient user is each of the multiple users participating in the chat.

[0049] Displaying a chat image 30 that distinguishes messages means changing the display manner (display format) of the message image 32. For example, this could be done by changing at least one of the following: color, brightness, shape, or size of the message image 32, or by changing the display position or font type. These are merely examples of how to distinguish messages. The method of distinguishing messages is not limited to these; any method that makes them visually identifiable is acceptable. A message image 32 indicating a message addressed to a specific user is displayed in a first display manner (for example, in a first color and including a rightward arrow), while a message image 32 indicating a message addressed to a user other than the intended recipient is displayed in a second display manner (for example, in a second color and not including an arrow).

[0050] Furthermore, the transmitting / receiving unit 74 transmits data to the recipient that includes a message entered by a user other than the recipient, and data for displaying a chat image 30 associated with the recipient, which associates the position on the chat image 30 associated with the user other than the recipient with the position on the chat image 30 associated with the recipient.

[0051] Associating a message with a direction means displaying a single image (a message image 32 including an arrow in this embodiment) that shows both the message and the direction, or displaying an image indicating the direction near (within a predetermined distance from) the image showing the message. In this embodiment, the transmitting / receiving unit 74 generates a message image 32 that includes an arrow pointing from an area where an avatar image 34 associated with a user different from the recipient user is displayed (near the left edge in the examples of Figures 2 to 4) to an area where the recipient user's avatar image 34 is displayed (near the right edge in the examples of Figures 2 to 4), indicating a direction (to the right in the examples of Figures 2 to 4).

[0052] In this embodiment, the transmitting / receiving unit 74 transmits data to the recipient that includes a message entered by a user other than the recipient, with the message being addressed to a user other than the recipient, and information identifying the recipient, to display a chat image 30. The information identifying the recipient is an image for displaying the recipient, and in this embodiment, corresponds to the recipient image 36. Associating a message with information identifying the recipient means displaying the image identifying the recipient near (within a predetermined distance from) the image showing the message, or displaying a single image showing both the message and the recipient, etc., in a state where it is possible to identify which message the information identifying the recipient corresponds to, but is not limited to these displays. In this embodiment, the transmitting / receiving unit 74 adds the recipient image 36 to the message image 32.

[0053] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the transmitting / receiving unit 74 contains data for displaying a chat image 30 that further distinguishes messages entered by the recipient user addressed to someone other than the recipient, and sends data containing such messages to the recipient. The message image 32 showing the message entered by the recipient user is a third display mode (for example, a third color and a leftward arrow).

[0054] Furthermore, the transmitting / receiving unit 74 sends data to the recipient that includes a message entered by the recipient user addressed to someone other than the recipient, and data for displaying a chat image 30 that associates the position on the chat image 30 associated with the recipient with the position on the chat image 30 associated with the other user. For example, the transmitting / receiving unit 74 generates a message image 32 that includes an arrow pointing from the area where the recipient user's avatar image 34 is displayed (near the right edge in the examples of Figures 2 to 4) to the area where an avatar image 34 associated with a user other than the recipient user is displayed (near the left edge in the examples of Figures 2 to 4) (to the left in the examples of Figures 2 and 3).

[0055] In this embodiment, the message destination can be any of the possible destinations or no destination is specified. Therefore, the sending / receiving unit 74 sends data to the destination that displays chat images 30 which further distinguish between messages addressed to any of the possible destinations and messages for which no destination is specified. For example, a message image 32 indicating a message addressed to all users or a message for which no destination is specified is a fourth display mode (e.g., a fourth color).

[0056] In this embodiment, the transmitting / receiving unit 74 sends data to the recipient to display an avatar image 34 that identifies the user who sent each message. Furthermore, when an avatar image 34 is specified based on the user's actions, the transmitting / receiving unit 74 sends data (for example, data to display an input form 38) to accept input for the message indicated by the specified avatar image 34.

[0057] [4. Processing performed in the message control system] Figure 7 is a flowchart showing the process executed by the message control system 1. The process shown in Figure 7 is executed when a chat with multiple users starts, by the control unit 11 operating according to the program stored in the memory unit 12, and the control unit 21 operating according to the program stored in the memory unit 22. The functional block shown in Figure 5 is realized by the execution of the process described below. Note that for simplicity, only one terminal 20 is shown in Figure 7, but the same process is executed at each terminal 20.

[0058] First, as shown in Figure 7, in the message control server 10, the control unit 11 generates data for displaying the initial screen of the chat image 30 for each terminal 20 (S1) and sends it to each terminal 20 (S2). Here, the message control server 10 manages the data for displaying the chat image 30 for each user participating in the chat in the storage unit 12. Note that the data generated in S1 is the initial screen, so it does not yet include the message image 32 or the avatar image 34.

[0059] In each terminal 20, upon receiving data, the control unit 21 displays the chat image 30 on the display unit 25 (S3) and determines whether a new message has been entered by the user (S4). As mentioned above, a new message is entered when the user performs a predetermined operation. It is also possible to specify a recipient for a new message. The storage unit 22 of each terminal 20 is assumed to store the user IDs of all users participating in the chat. When a user specifies a recipient for a message, the control unit 21 refers to the user ID stored in the storage unit 22.

[0060] If it is not determined that the user has entered a new message (S4;N), the process proceeds to S8, which will be described later. In this case, it is determined whether or not data has been received to update the display of chat image 30 due to another user joining the chat entering a message.

[0061] On the other hand, if it is determined that a new message has been entered by the user (S4;Y), the control unit 21 sends the message and destination information to the message control server 10 (S5). When information is sent from each terminal 20 to the message control server 10, the user ID and other information are also sent, so that the message control server 10 can identify which user sent the message and destination information. If no destination is specified, the destination information is not sent.

[0062] In the message control server 10, upon receiving a message and destination information, the control unit 11 stores them in the message database (S6) and executes a process to generate and send data to update the display of the chat image 30 (S7). In S6, the control unit 11 issues a message ID under predetermined ID issuance rules and creates a new record in the message database. The control unit 11 then stores the issued message ID, the user ID of the user who entered the message, the received destination information, the received message, and the current time in the newly created record.

[0063] Figure 8 shows the details of the process executed in S7. In the process shown in Figure 8, data is generated to update the display of the chat image 30 for each user participating in the chat. As shown in Figure 8, first the control unit 11 selects the recipient users from among the users participating in the chat (S21). In S21, the control unit 11 selects the users from whom data will be generated.

[0064] The control unit 11 refers to the sender information of the newly entered message and determines whether or not the message was entered by the recipient user (S22). If it is determined that the message was entered by a user other than the recipient user (S22;N), the control unit 11 refers to the message's destination information (S23).

[0065] If the message is addressed to the recipient user (S23), the control unit 11 generates a message image 32 of a first color that includes a rightward arrow and places an avatar image 34 on the left side (S24). This avatar image 34 is the avatar image 34 of the user who entered the message. The same applies to the avatar images 34 described in S25 to S27 thereafter.

[0066] On the other hand, if the message is addressed to a user different from the recipient user (S23; different user), the control unit 11 generates a second-color message image 32 with the recipient image 36 attached and places the avatar image 34 on the left side (S25). In S25, the control unit 11 generates the recipient image 36 by referring to the message's recipient information.

[0067] On the other hand, if the message is addressed to all users or has no specified recipient (S23; otherwise), the control unit 11 generates a message image 32 of a fourth color and places the avatar image 34 on the left side (S26).

[0068] In S22, if it is determined that the recipient user has entered the message (S22; Y), the control unit 11 generates a message image 32 of a third color that includes a left-pointing arrow and places the avatar image 34 on the right side (S27). If a destination is specified, in S27, the control unit 11 refers to the message's destination information, generates a destination image 36, and attaches it to the message image 32.

[0069] The control unit 11 merges each image generated in any of S24 to S27 onto the original chat image 30 so that the messages are arranged in chronological order, and generates data for displaying the chat image 30 (S28). In this embodiment, the message image 32, which shows the latest message, is displayed on top of the chat image 30, so in S28, the control unit 11 generates the updated chat image 30 data by merging each image generated in any of S24 to S27 onto the top of the original chat image 30. The control unit 11 stores the generated data in the storage unit 12, associating it with the recipient user.

[0070] The control unit 11 determines whether or not data has been generated for all users (S29). If it is determined that there are still users for whom data has not yet been generated (S29; N), the process returns to S21 and data for the next destination user is generated. If it is determined that data has been generated for all users (S29; Y), the control unit 11 sends the generated data to each terminal 20 (S30), and this process ends, returning to the main routine in Figure 7. In S30, the control unit 11 sends each piece of data generated in S28 to the terminal 20 of the destination user.

[0071] Returning to Figure 7, in each terminal 20, the control unit 21 determines whether or not it has received data to display the chat image 30 (S8). If it is determined that no data has been received (S8;N), the display of the chat image 30 is not updated, and the process proceeds to S10, which will be described later.

[0072] On the other hand, if it is determined that data has been received (S8;Y), the control unit 21 updates the display of the chat image 30 (S9). In S9, the control unit 21 updates the display of the chat image 30 based on the received data so that the message image 32 showing the latest message is displayed at the top of the screen.

[0073] The control unit 21 determines whether the user has specified the avatar image 34 (S10). If it is determined that the user has not specified the avatar image 34 (S10;N), the process returns to S4. On the other hand, if it is determined that the user has specified the avatar image 34 (S10;Y), the control unit 21 sends information identifying the avatar image 34 specified by the user to the message control server 10 (S11).

[0074] When the message control server 10 receives information identifying the avatar image 34, the control unit 11 sends data to display an input form 38 with the user indicated by the avatar image 34 set in the destination field 40 (S12). The image data for the input form 38 is assumed to be stored in the storage unit 12 beforehand.

[0075] In each terminal 20, upon receiving data, the control unit 21 displays the input form 38 on the chat image 30 (S13). From this point onward, messages can be entered into the input form 38. The control unit 21 determines whether the user has selected the send button 44 (S14).

[0076] If it is determined that the user has selected the send button 44 (S14; Y), the process proceeds to S5. In this case, in S5, the message and recipient information entered in the input form 38 are sent to the message control server 10. Subsequently, in S6, the message is stored in the message database, and in S7, the process to update the chat image 30 is executed. The details of each of these processes are as described above.

[0077] On the other hand, if it is not determined that the user has selected the send button 44 (S14;N), the control unit 21 determines whether the chat has ended or not (S15). The chat ends when predetermined conditions are met, for example, when any user performs a predetermined operation to end the chat. If it is not determined that the chat has ended (S15;N), the process returns to S4. On the other hand, if it is determined that the chat has ended (S15;Y), this process ends.

[0078] According to the message control system 1 described above, in the chat image 30 for displaying messages in chronological order, the display manner of message images 32 indicating messages addressed to the user and message images 32 indicating messages not addressed to the user are different, so that the user can easily identify messages that are relevant to them.

[0079] In particular, in a game where each user chats about their strategy while playing, as in this embodiment, due to the nature of the game, each user needs to refer not only to messages addressed to themselves but also to messages addressed to others. In other words, it is not possible to provide each user with a screen that filters out only messages addressed to them, so a mechanism is needed that allows them to see everyone's messages. In this regard, by displaying the chat image 30 described above, even if all messages are displayed, each user can easily distinguish between messages addressed to themselves and messages addressed to others.

[0080] Furthermore, when chatting strategies during gameplay, there is often little time to carefully review messages. However, according to the chat image 30 of this embodiment, users can quickly identify the messages they need, effectively preventing them from overlooking important messages. Moreover, each user can reduce the likelihood of mistaking a message intended for them for one intended for another, and vice versa, thus preventing the accidental sending of messages due to these misunderstandings.

[0081] Furthermore, in chat image 30, the display of message image 32, which shows messages entered by users, is further varied, making it easier to identify messages that each user entered for others as messages are displayed chronologically. For example, it reduces the possibility that each user might mistake a message they sent for a message sent by someone else. Also, for example, it becomes easier for each user to identify which message they sent is a response to a message they received from someone else.

[0082] Furthermore, in the chat image 30, the recipient image 36 is displayed for message images 32 that are not addressed to each user, making it easier to identify who a message is intended for when messages are displayed chronologically. In particular, in situations such as chatting about game strategies, when each user plays the game, there may be users with whom they have a close relationship due to the strategy, as well as users with whom they have little relationship. Therefore, each user can easily identify whether a message is intended for a user with whom they have a close relationship by looking at the recipient image 36.

[0083] Furthermore, chat image 30 allows for further distinction between messages addressed to all users and messages without a specific recipient, making it easier to determine, for example, whether a message is of low importance, such as a simple tweet. In particular, in situations where users are chatting about game strategies, they may send messages as reference information for formulating strategies. In such cases, it becomes easier for each user to distinguish between messages that are merely reference information and messages that provide details of the strategy.

[0084] Furthermore, by specifying an avatar image 34, users can input a message addressed to the user indicated by that avatar image 34, making it easier for users to specify the recipient when entering a message. In particular, by having users select an avatar image 34 displayed near the message image 32, it becomes easier for each user to specify the user who sent the message they want to reply to.

[0085] Furthermore, each user can more easily identify whether a message is addressed to them because the message image 32, which indicates a message addressed to them, includes a rightward arrow pointing to their avatar image 34.

[0086] Furthermore, since each user's message image 32, which represents the message they entered, includes a leftward arrow pointing to another user's avatar image 34, it becomes easier for them to intuitively identify whether a message was sent to another user.

[0087] [5. Variant] The present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above. It can be modified as appropriate without departing from the spirit of the invention.

[0088] Figure 9 is a functional block diagram of a modified example. As shown in Figure 9, in addition to the functions of the embodiment, the modified example includes a reply source acquisition unit 76 and a group membership unit 78. For example, the reply source acquisition unit 76 and the group membership unit 78 are mainly implemented by the control unit 11.

[0089] (1-1) For example, if user A enters a reply message to a message entered by user X, the chat image 30 may be made identifiable as to what the reply message is a reply to. In this modified example, it is possible to reply to the user who sent the original message, and the message acquisition unit 70 acquires the reply messages entered by each user. The reply message is composed of a sequence of symbols and an image, just like a normal message. Furthermore, the reply message is entered from an input form, as in the embodiment.

[0090] The message control server 10 in this modified example includes a reply source acquisition unit 76. The reply source acquisition unit 76 acquires reply source information that identifies the original message from which the reply was sent. For example, the reply source information is the message ID of the original message from which the reply was sent. The reply source acquisition unit 76 acquires the message ID of the message specified by the user when they enter a reply as the reply source information.

[0091] Figure 10 shows an example of data storage in a message database in a modified example. As shown in Figure 10, the message database stores the source information for each message. Note that source information is not stored for regular messages that are not replies. Furthermore, while this explanation describes the case where the source information is the message ID of the original message, the source information is not limited to this and can be any information that identifies the original message.

[0092] The sending / receiving unit 74 sends data to the recipient that, based on the source information of the reply, is used to display a chat image 30 that associates the reply message with the original message of the reply. Associating messages means displaying multiple message images 32 in corresponding display modes (for example, at least one of the following: color, brightness, shape, or size) or displaying an image that points to multiple message images 32 (for example, displaying a line connecting multiple message images 32 or displaying an arrow that points to multiple message images 32).

[0093] Figure 11 shows an example of user A's chat image 30. In the example in Figure 11, message image 32I shows a new message entered by user Z. That is, the message shown in message image 32I is neither a reply message nor the original message that the reply was made from.

[0094] On the other hand, message image 32J shows the reply message from user Y to the message shown in message image 32K. Message image 32K is a new message entered by user X, and is also the original message from which the reply shown in message image 32K originates. In the example in Figure 11, the transmitting / receiving unit 74 displays message image 32I with a dark background (shown as a shaded area in Figure 11), and generates and transmits data to display message images 32J and 32K without darkening the background.

[0095] Here, as an example of associating messages, we have described a case where message images 32 are displayed with corresponding brightness levels without darkening. However, the display control for associating messages is not limited to this, as long as multiple messages that are associated with each other can be identified. The same applies to the variations described later.

[0096] According to the modified example (1-1), in the chat image 30, the message image 32 showing the reply message and the message image 32 showing the original message from which the reply was sent are displayed together, making it easier for each user to identify what the reply message is a reply to as the messages are displayed in chronological order.

[0097] (1-2) Alternatively, for example, the transmitting / receiving unit 74 may transmit data to accept input for a reply message to a message specified based on the operation of each user. In this case, the user selecting a message image 32 using the operation unit 24 corresponds to specifying a message.

[0098] Figure 12 shows an example of a chat image 30 from user A. In the example in Figure 12, when user A selects message image 32K, an input form 46 is displayed for entering a reply to the message shown in message image 32K. The recipient field 48 is set to the sender of the original message (i.e., the message selected by the user). The user can send a reply message by entering a message in the message input field 50 and selecting the reply button 52.

[0099] In this modified version, the message acquisition unit 70 acquires the message entered in the message input field 50, and the recipient acquisition unit 72 acquires the recipient information specified in the recipient field 48. The reply source acquisition unit 76 then acquires information identifying the message indicated by the message image 32 specified by the user (in this case, the message ID). These acquired pieces of information are stored in the message database in association with each other.

[0100] According to the modified example (1-2), when a message image 32 is selected in the chat image 30, replies to the message shown in that message image 32 can be accepted, thus reducing the effort required for each user to reply.

[0101] (1-3) For example, the display of associations as in the modified example (1-1) may not always be performed in the chat image 30, but may be performed only when the user specifies a message. The sending and receiving unit 74 of this modified example contains data for displaying a chat image 30 that associates the specified reply message with the original message of the reply when a reply message is specified based on the operation of each user, and sends data containing these messages to the recipient.

[0102] Figure 13 shows the changes in the chat image 30 when user A specifies a reply message. In the example in Figure 13, the changes in the chat image 30 when user A selects message image 32J are shown. When user A's terminal 20 receives confirmation that message image 32J, which represents the reply message, has been selected, it sends a message to the message control server 10 to that effect.

[0103] In the message control server 10, the transmitting / receiving unit 74 refers to the message database to identify the original message of the reply selected by user A (in the example in Figure 13, the message shown by message image 32K). The transmitting / receiving unit 74 then sends data to the terminal 20 to display message images 32I and 32L with the background dimmed, and message images 32J and 32K without the background dimming.

[0104] Furthermore, although the above describes the case where the user specifies the reply message, the sending / receiving unit 74 may also be configured to send data containing these messages to the recipient, which is used to display a chat image 30 that associates the specified original message with the reply message to that original message when the original message is specified based on the user's actions.

[0105] Figure 14 shows the changes in the chat image 30 when user A specifies the original message. In the example in Figure 14, the changes in the chat image 30 when user A selects message image 32K are shown. When user A's terminal 20 receives confirmation that message image 32K, which represents the original message of the reply, has been selected, it sends a message to the message control server 10 to that effect.

[0106] In the message control server 10, the transmitting / receiving unit 74 refers to the message database to identify the reply message to the original message selected by user A (in the example in Figure 13, the messages shown in message images 32J and 32L, respectively). The transmitting / receiving unit 74 then sends data to the terminal 20 to display message image 32I with a dimmed background, and to display message images 32J, 32K, and 32L without dimming the background.

[0107] According to the modified examples (1-3), it becomes easier to identify what the reply message specified on the chat image 30 is a reply to, and it becomes easier to identify what reply was entered in response to the message specified on the chat image 30.

[0108] (2-1) For example, if a series of replies are made to a single message, it is highly likely that the series of messages are on the same topic. For this reason, messages on the same topic may be grouped together and identified in the chat image 30.

[0109] The message control server 10 in this modified example includes a group belonging unit 78. The group belonging unit 78 assigns a reply message to the same message group as the original message of the reply. Belonging to the same message group means associating messages with each other, for example, by assigning common identification information (a message group ID described later) to the messages.

[0110] Figure 15 shows an example of data storage in the message database of this modified example. As shown in Figure 15, the message database of this modified example stores the message group ID. The message group ID is information that uniquely identifies a message group. Messages with the same message group ID are likely to be on the same topic. In other words, messages with the same message group ID share the same original message (the message that started the reply) when tracing back the original message of the reply.

[0111] The group member department 78 will assign the same message group ID as the original message to the reply message. The group member department 78 issues a message group ID the first time a reply is made to a given message. The message group ID should be issued according to a predetermined ID issuance rule. Thereafter, each time a reply is made to a message with the issued message group ID, the group member department 78 will assign this message group ID to the reply message.

[0112] In this modified example, the transmitting / receiving unit 74 contains data for displaying a chat image 30 associated with messages belonging to the same message group, and sends the data containing the messages to the recipient.

[0113] Figure 16 shows an example of user A's chat image 30. As shown in Figure 16, the messages shown in message images 32B, 32C, and 32F each belong to the same message group (the group with message group ID "002"). Therefore, the transmitting / receiving unit 74 will transmit data to display message images 32A, 32D, 32E, 32G, and 32H with the screen dimmed, and to display message images 32B, 32C, and 32F without the screen dimming.

[0114] According to the modified example (2-1), when replies are sent one after another starting from a single message, each user can easily identify messages on the chat image 30 that are the same in origin (i.e., messages that appear to be on the same topic).

[0115] (2-2) In addition, the display of association as in the modified example (2-1) may not always be displayed in the chat image 30, but may be displayed only when the user specifies a message. In this modified example, when a message is specified based on the operation of each user, the sending / receiving unit 74 sends data to the recipient to display a chat image 30 that distinguishes the messages in the message group to which the specified message belongs from messages that are different from the specified message. More specifically, the sending / receiving unit 74 sends data to the recipient to display a chat image 30 that distinguishes the messages in the message group to which the specified message belongs from messages belonging to message groups different from that message group.

[0116] Figure 17 shows the changes in the chat image 30 when user A specifies a message. In the example in Figure 17, the changes in the chat image 30 when user A selects message image 32F are shown. When user A's terminal 20 receives confirmation of the selection of message image 32F, it sends a message to the message control server 10 to that effect.

[0117] In the message control server 10, the transmitting / receiving unit 74 refers to the message database to identify messages in the same message group as the message selected by user A. The transmitting / receiving unit 74 then transmits data to display message images 32A, 32D, 32E, 32G, and 32H with the background dimmed, and to display message images 32B, 32C, and 32F without the background dimming.

[0118] According to the modified example (2-2), each user can more easily identify each message in the same message group as the message they specified on the chat image 30.

[0119] (3-1) For example, although the embodiment described a case where there is one destination user, it is also possible to specify multiple users as destinations. In this case, the destination information will indicate one or more users. The transmitting and receiving unit 74 of this modified example is data for displaying chat images 30 that distinguish between messages in which the recipient is included among the specified multiple destinations and messages in which the recipient is not included among the specified multiple destinations, and it sends data containing these messages to the destination.

[0120] Figure 18 shows an example of a chat image 30 from user A. In the example in Figure 18, the message shown in message image 32F has users A and Y specified as recipients. Therefore, the recipient image 36F attached to message image 32F shows multiple users. In this modified example, if multiple users are specified as recipients, the process in S23 will determine whether or not the recipient user is included among these multiple users. Other processes are the same as in the embodiment.

[0121] According to the modified example (3-1), it is possible to specify multiple recipients and send a message simultaneously, which reduces the effort required compared to when the user inputting the message sends it individually. Furthermore, even if multiple recipients are specified, if the user is included among them, the message will be displayed separately from messages addressed to others, making it easier for the recipient to identify the message that was intended for them.

[0122] (3-2) For example, even if a message is addressed to user A, a message addressed only to user A may be more important than a message that also includes other users as recipients, so it may be possible to distinguish between them. The sending and receiving unit 74 is data for displaying a chat image 30 that distinguishes between messages addressed only to the recipient and messages that include both the recipient and others among the specified multiple recipients, and sends data containing these messages to the recipient.

[0123] Figure 19 shows a comparison example of message image 32. As shown in Figure 19, the sending / receiving unit 74 sends data to display chat images 30 with different display modes for message image 32M, which is addressed only to user A, and message image 32N, which is also addressed to another user. For example, message image 32M is highlighted more than message image 32N.

[0124] According to the modified example (3-2), each user can easily distinguish between messages addressed only to themselves and messages addressed to other users as well. For example, messages addressed only to oneself may be more important, so in this case, each user can more easily identify the more important messages.

[0125] (4) For example, if a user specifies an avatar image 34, the chat image 30 may display the history of messages between the user indicated by that avatar image 34 and the user. The transmitting / receiving unit 74 of this modified example transmits data that displays a chat image 30 distinguishing messages between the recipient and a recipient other than the recipient specified based on the operation of the recipient user, and transmits data that includes such messages.

[0126] Figure 20 shows the changes in the chat image 30 when user A selects user X's avatar image 34. As shown in Figure 20, when user A selects user X's avatar image 34, the exchange between user A and user X is displayed in the chat image 30. Specifically, when user A's terminal 20 receives confirmation that user X's avatar image 34 has been selected, it sends a message to the message control server 10 to that effect.

[0127] In the message control server 10, the transmitting / receiving unit 74 refers to the message database and identifies a message between user A and user X, who is specified by user A. For example, the transmitting / receiving unit 74 identifies a message where the source information and destination information are a combination of user A and user X. The transmitting / receiving unit 74 then generates a chat image 30 that displays the exchange between user A and user X differently from other messages, and sends this data to user A's terminal 20. In other words, the transmitting / receiving unit 74 sends a chat image 30 that shows the history of messages exchanged between user A and user X.

[0128] According to modification (4), if one user designates another user, the history of messages exchanged between those users can be displayed, making it easy to understand the content of conversations between specific users.

[0129] (5) For example, in the above description, the process of generating data for displaying the chat image 30 is implemented in the message control server 10, but this process may also be implemented in each terminal 20 (message control terminal). In other words, the main functions may be implemented in each terminal 20 instead of the message control server 10.

[0130] For example, the message acquisition unit 70 and the destination acquisition unit 72 may be implemented in each terminal 20. In this case, the control unit 21 and communication unit 23 of each terminal 20 will acquire messages entered by each user and destination information indicating the specified destination via the communication network 2. For example, the message acquisition unit 70 acquires messages stored in the message database via the communication network 2, and the destination acquisition unit 72 acquires destination information stored in the message database via the communication network 2.

[0131] Furthermore, the display control unit 66 of each terminal 20 displays a chat image 30 that distinguishes between messages entered addressed to the user (i.e., the user of terminal 20) and messages entered by a user other than the user, addressed to a user other than the user, based on the destination information. In the embodiment, the case in which the message control server 10 generates the data for the chat image 30 was described, but in this modified example, the display control unit 66 generates the data for the chat image 30. The processing content for generating this data is the same as that described in the embodiment and the modified example above.

[0132] Furthermore, each process described in the above modified examples may be implemented at each terminal 20. For example, the display control unit 66 may execute the processes described in modified examples (1-1) to (1-3). That is, the display control unit 66 may generate chat image 30 data that associates the reply message with the original message. Similarly, the display control unit 66 may execute the processes described in modified examples (2-1) and (2-2). That is, the display control unit 66 may generate chat image 30 data that associates messages from the same message group. In addition, the display control unit 66 may execute the processes described in modified examples (3-1) and (3-2). That is, the display control unit 66 may generate chat image 30 data when multiple users are specified as recipients.

[0133] According to the modified example (5), the main processing can be performed on the terminal 20 side, thus reducing the burden on the message control server 10.

[0134] (6) Alternatively, for example, the embodiments may be combined with the above-described modifications.

[0135] Furthermore, for example, the message control server or message control terminal according to the present invention can be applied to technologies in which messages are exchanged between users, and is applicable to applications other than chat. In other words, real-time functionality like that of chat is not required, and the present invention can be applied to, for example, an electronic bulletin board where multiple users post messages.

[0136] [6. Summary of the Invention] From the above description, the present invention can be understood as follows, for example. The message control server (10) according to the present invention is a message control server (10) that communicates with a terminal (20) that displays an image (e.g., chat image 30) in which the messages of multiple users are arranged in chronological order, and is characterized by including a message acquisition means (70) that acquires messages entered by each user, a destination acquisition means (72) that acquires destination information indicating the destination of the message, and a means (74) that transmits data to each user's terminal (20) for displaying the image (e.g., chat image 30), and is characterized by including a transmission means (74) that, based on the destination information, transmits to the destination a message entered addressed to the destination and a message entered by a user other than the destination user addressed to a destination other than the destination, and transmits to the destination data for displaying an image (e.g., chat image 30) that distinguishes between the message entered addressed to the destination and the message entered by a user other than the destination user addressed to a destination other than the destination.

[0137] The message control terminal (20) according to the present invention is a message control terminal (20) that displays an image (for example, a chat image 30) in which the messages of multiple users are arranged in chronological order, and is characterized by including a message acquisition means (70) that acquires messages entered by each user, a destination acquisition means (72) that acquires destination information indicating the destination of the message, and a display control means (66) that displays an image (for example, a chat image 30) that distinguishes between messages entered addressed to a user and messages entered by a user other than the user and addressed to a person other than the user, based on the destination information.

[0138] The program according to the present invention causes a computer that communicates with a terminal (20) that displays an image (e.g., chat image 30) in which the messages of multiple users are arranged in chronological order to function as a message acquisition means (70) that acquires messages entered by each user, a destination acquisition means (72) that acquires destination information indicating the destination of the message, and a transmission means (74) that transmits data to each user's terminal (20) for displaying the image (e.g., chat image 30), wherein, based on the destination information, the transmission means (74) transmits to the destination the message entered addressed to the destination and the message entered by a user other than the destination user addressed to a destination other than the destination user, and transmits to the destination data for displaying an image (e.g., chat image 30) that distinguishes between the message entered addressed to the destination and the message entered by a user other than the destination user addressed to a destination other than the destination user.

[0139] The program according to the present invention causes a computer that displays an image (e.g., chat image 30) in which the messages of multiple users are arranged in chronological order to function as a message acquisition means (70) for acquiring messages entered by each user, a destination acquisition means (72) for acquiring destination information indicating the recipient of the message, and a display control means (66) for displaying an image (e.g., chat image 30) that distinguishes between messages entered addressed to a user and messages entered by a user other than the user and addressed to someone other than the user, based on the destination information.

[0140] Furthermore, the information storage medium according to the present invention is a computer-readable information storage medium on which the above-mentioned program is recorded.

[0141] According to the present invention, in an image where messages are arranged chronologically, users can easily identify messages that are relevant to them.

[0142] Furthermore, in one aspect of the present invention, the transmission means (74) is data for displaying an image (for example, a chat image 30) that further distinguishes messages entered by the recipient user to someone other than the recipient, and the data containing the message is transmitted to the recipient. According to this aspect, as messages are displayed in chronological order, it becomes easier for each user to identify the messages they entered to others.

[0143] Furthermore, in one aspect of the present invention, the transmission means (74) is data for displaying an image (for example, a chat image 30) that associates a message entered by a user other than the recipient with a recipient other than the recipient user, and information identifying the recipient, and transmits the data containing the message to the recipient. According to this aspect, as messages are displayed in chronological order, it becomes easier for each user to identify who a message from someone else to someone else is addressed to.

[0144] Furthermore, in one aspect of the present invention, the message control server (10) is capable of sending replies to the user who sent the original message, the message acquisition means (70) acquires reply messages entered by each user, the message control server (10) further includes means (76) for acquiring reply source information that identifies the original message of the reply, and the transmission means (74) is data for displaying an image (e.g., chat image 30) that associates the reply message with the original message of the reply, based on the reply source information, and transmits data containing these messages to the recipient. According to this aspect, when messages are displayed in chronological order, it becomes easier to identify what the reply message is a reply to.

[0145] Furthermore, in one aspect of the present invention, the transmission means (74) is characterized in that, when a message is specified based on the operation of each user, it transmits data for receiving input of a reply message to the specified message. According to this aspect, since replies to messages can be received when each user specifies a message, it becomes easier for users to reply.

[0146] Furthermore, in one aspect of the present invention, the transmission means (74) includes at least one of the following: data for displaying an image (e.g., chat image 30) that associates a specified reply message with the original message of the reply when a reply message is specified based on the operation of each user, and means (74) for sending data containing these messages to the recipient; and data for displaying an image (e.g., chat image 30) that associates a specified original message with a reply message to the specified original message when an original message is specified based on the operation of each user, and means (74) for sending data containing these messages to the recipient. According to this aspect, it becomes easier to identify what a reply message specified by a user is a reply to, and it becomes easier to identify what reply was entered in response to a message specified by a user.

[0147] Furthermore, in one aspect of the present invention, the message control server (10) is capable of replying to the user who sent the message, the message acquisition means (70) acquires reply messages entered by each user, the message control server further includes means (78) for assigning the reply messages to the same message group as the original message of the reply, and the transmission means (74) is data for displaying an image (e.g., a chat image 30) associated with messages belonging to the same message group, and transmits the data containing the message to the recipient. According to this aspect, when each user replies one after another, it becomes easier to identify messages in the same group (e.g., messages on the same topic).

[0148] Furthermore, in one aspect of the present invention, the transmission means (74) is characterized in that, when a message is specified based on the operation of each user, it transmits data to the recipient for displaying an image (for example, a chat image 30) that distinguishes the message in the message group to which the specified message belongs from a message different from the specified message. According to this aspect, it becomes easier to identify messages in the same message group as the message specified by the user.

[0149] Furthermore, in one aspect of the present invention, the recipient of a message can be specified as a plurality of users, and the sending means (74) is data for displaying an image (e.g., chat image 30) that distinguishes between messages in which the recipient is included among the specified plurality of recipients and messages in which the recipient is not included among the specified plurality of recipients, and the data containing these messages is sent to the recipient. According to this aspect, since messages can be sent simultaneously to multiple recipients, the effort required of the user is reduced compared to sending messages individually. In addition, even if multiple recipients are specified, if the user is included among them, the message will be displayed separately from messages addressed to others, making it easier for each user to identify messages addressed to them.

[0150] Furthermore, in one aspect of the present invention, the transmission means (74) is data for displaying an image (e.g., chat image 30) that distinguishes between messages addressed only to the recipient and messages that include both the recipient and other users among the specified plurality of recipients, and transmits data containing these messages to the recipient. According to this aspect, each user can more easily identify more important messages because messages addressed only to themselves may be more important than messages that include other users as recipients.

[0151] Furthermore, in one aspect of the present invention, the destination of a message can specify all possible destinations or not specify a destination, and the sending means (74) is data for displaying an image (e.g., chat image 30) that further distinguishes between messages addressed to all possible destinations or messages without a specified destination, and the sending means (74) sends data containing these messages to the recipient. According to this aspect, messages addressed to all or messages without a specified destination can be further distinguished.

[0152] Furthermore, in one aspect of the present invention, the transmission means (74) transmits data to the destination for displaying information identifying the source of each message, and when the information is specified based on the operation of each user, transmits data for accepting input of a message to the destination indicated by the specified information. According to this aspect, it becomes easier for the user to specify a destination when entering a message.

[0153] Furthermore, in one aspect of the present invention, the transmission means (74) is data for displaying an image (e.g., chat image 30) that distinguishes messages between the recipient and a user other than the recipient, as specified based on the user's actions at the recipient, and transmits data including the message. According to this aspect, each user can easily understand the content of their exchanges with the user they have specified.

[0154] Furthermore, in one aspect of the present invention, the transmission means (74) is data for displaying an image that associates a message entered by a user other than the recipient user to the recipient, and a position on an image associated with a user other than the recipient (e.g., chat image 30) with a direction to a position on an image associated with the recipient (e.g., chat image 30), and transmits the data containing the message to the recipient. According to this aspect, each user can more easily intuitively determine whether or not the message is addressed to them.

[0155] Furthermore, in one aspect of the present invention, the transmission means (74) is data for displaying an image (e.g., chat image 30) that associates a message entered by the recipient user addressed to someone other than the recipient with a position on an image associated with the recipient (e.g., chat image 30) relative to a position on an image associated with someone other than the recipient (e.g., chat image 30), and transmits the data containing the message to the recipient. According to this aspect, each user can more easily intuitively identify whether a message they sent to someone else. [Explanation of symbols]

[0156] 1 Message control system, 2 Communication network, 10 Message control server, 11 Control unit, 12 Storage unit, 13 Communication unit, 20 Terminal, 21 Control unit, 22 Storage unit, 23 Communication unit, 24 Operation unit, 25 Display unit, 30 Chat image, 32,32A,32B,32C,32D,32E,32F,32G,32H,32I,32J,32K,32L,32M,32N Message image, 34,34A,34B,34C,34D,34E,34F,34G,34H,34I,34J,34K,34L,34M,34N Avatar image, 36 Destination image, 38,46 Input form, 40,48 Destination field, 42,50 Message input field, 44 Send button, 52 Reply button, 60 Message input unit, 62 Destination specification unit, 64 Sending / receiving unit, 66 Display control unit, 68 Data storage unit, 70 Message acquisition unit, 72 Destination acquisition unit, 74 Sending / receiving unit, 76 Reply source acquisition unit, 78 Group membership unit.

Claims

1. A messaging system that enables multiple terminals and servers to send and receive data over a network, A message acquisition means that acquires input messages from each of the aforementioned multiple terminals, A destination acquisition means that acquires destination information indicating the destination user associated with the aforementioned message, Each of the aforementioned multiple terminals is provided with a display control means that causes the multiple messages, including messages with a specified destination and messages without a specified destination, to display an image in which the multiple messages are arranged in chronological order. Includes, The display control means, in each of the plurality of terminals, displays, based on the destination information associated with the message to which a destination has been specified, a message addressed to a second user specified by the first user of that terminal, and a message addressed to the first user by the second user, distinguishing them from other messages. Message system.

2. The aforementioned image includes user identification information that can identify the user who entered the message, The second user is designated by an operation in which the first user selects the user identification information of the second user. The message system according to claim 1.

3. A method for controlling a message system that enables multiple terminals and a server to send and receive data over a network, A message acquisition step of acquiring a message input from each of the aforementioned multiple terminals, A destination acquisition step to obtain destination information indicating the destination user associated with the aforementioned message, A display control step causes each of the plurality of terminals to display an image in which a plurality of messages, including the message with a specified destination and the message without a specified destination, are arranged in chronological order. Includes, The display control step involves, in each of the plurality of terminals, displaying, based on the destination information associated with the message to which a destination has been specified, a message addressed to a second user specified by the first user of that terminal, and a message addressed to the first user by the second user, distinguishing them from other messages. Control method.

4. A server capable of sending and receiving data via a network with multiple terminals, Message acquisition means for acquiring input messages from each of the aforementioned multiple terminals, A destination acquisition means that acquires destination information indicating the recipient user associated with the aforementioned message. Display control means for each of the plurality of terminals to display an image in which a plurality of messages, including the message with a specified destination and the message without a specified destination, are arranged in chronological order. It is a program designed to function as such. The display control means, in each of the plurality of terminals, displays, based on the destination information associated with the message to which a destination has been specified, a message addressed to a second user specified by the first user of that terminal, and a message addressed to the first user by the second user, distinguishing them from other messages. program.

5. A terminal capable of sending and receiving data over a network, A message retrieval method that retrieves messages entered from other devices. A destination acquisition means that acquires destination information indicating the recipient user associated with the aforementioned message. Display control means for displaying an image in which a plurality of messages, including the message with a specified recipient and the message without a specified recipient, are arranged in chronological order. It is a program designed to function as such. The display control means causes the terminal to display, based on the destination information associated with the message to which a destination has been specified, a message addressed to a second user specified by the first user of the terminal, and a message addressed to the first user by the second user, distinguishing them from other messages. program.

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