Information management device, information management method, and program

Abstract

To provide an information management device that can manage information while taking into account the regional characteristics related to that information. [Solution] The administrator computer 13 has a processor 42 that performs processing and is connected to the client computer 11 and the user computer 14 via a network 15 so as to be able to communicate with them, and the processor 42 performs a first process of storing content acquired from the client computer 11 in an auxiliary storage device 44, a second process of generating desired content that, when the user computer 14 requests to acquire content, includes content from the content stored in the auxiliary storage device 44 that matches the acquisition request and regional information of the region included in the content that matches the acquisition request, and a third process of providing the desired content to the user computer 14.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an information management device, an information management method, and a program capable of storing information and providing the information to an external computer. [Background Art]

[0002] An example of an information management device capable of storing information and providing the information to an external computer is disclosed in Patent Document 1. The information processing system (information management device) disclosed in Patent Document 1 includes: a content generation unit that generates content using one or more pieces of material data generated from original content; a metadata addition unit that adds content metadata including material information related to the material data used for generating the content and generation information related to generation of the content to the content; a material generation unit that generates one or more pieces of material data from the original content; and an AI-created work generation unit that generates a new musical composition (AI musical composition) using a plurality of pieces of material data.

[0003] Further, the metadata addition unit described in Patent Document 1 adds, to the generated material data, information on the rights relation of the material data and information capable of specifying the original content of the material data as metadata. Furthermore, the content generation unit described in Patent Document 1 automatically generates content based on the material data using a predetermined rule or machine learning. Furthermore, the information processing system disclosed in Patent Document 1 includes a usage determination unit. The usage determination unit determines whether the original creation / material data can be used according to the usage mode of the original creation / material data for AI creation. License conditions can be set in advance by right holders (author, copyright holder, etc.), for example. [Prior Art Documents] [Patent Documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent No. 7414015 [Summary of Invention] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0005] The inventors of this application recognized that the information processing system described in Patent Document 1 does not take into account the regional characteristics of the information, and that there is room for improvement in this respect.

[0006] The purpose of this disclosure is to provide an information management device, an information management method, and a program that can manage information while taking into account the regional characteristics of the information. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] This embodiment discloses an information management device having a processor that performs processing and is connected to terminal devices via a network in a manner that enables communication, wherein the processor performs a first process of storing content acquired from a first terminal device included in the terminal device into memory, and a second process of providing the content stored in memory and related regional information to the second terminal device when a request for content acquisition is received from a second terminal device included in the terminal device. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to this embodiment, it is possible to manage information while taking into account the regional characteristics related to that information. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] This is a conceptual diagram showing an example configuration of an information management system. [Figure 2] This is a conceptual diagram showing an example configuration of an administrator computer that makes up an information management system. [Figure 3] According to an example of an information management method implemented in an information management system. [Figure 4] This flowchart shows an example of a process performed on the administrator computer. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0010] (Overview of the entire information management system) In this embodiment, several specific examples of the information management system, administrator computer 13, information management method, and program are described with reference to the drawings. Figure 1 shows an example of the information management system 10. The information management system 10 is realized by connecting the client computer 11, the contractor computer 12, the administrator computer 13, and the user computer 14 to communicate with each other via a network 15.

[0011] Network 15 is a communication line that transmits information, such as content, images, videos, music, text, data, signals, etc. Network 15 is, for example, the Internet or a wide area network. Network 15 is realized by base stations, communication satellites, communication antennas, communication equipment (access points), repeaters, communication circuits, communication cables (copper wires, optical fibers), etc. Repeaters include modems (devices that convert analog signals to digital signals), hubs (concentrators), routers (devices that connect terminal equipment to the network), etc. The communication line includes one or more means of communication, including wireless communication and wired communication. Wireless communication includes short-range wireless communication. Short-range wireless communication includes, for example, wireless LAN (Wi-Fi®) and Bluetooth®. Wireless communication includes electrical signals, optical signals, radio waves, infrared rays, satellite communication, etc. Signals used for communication include digital signals and analog signals.

[0012] (Configuration of the client's computer) The client computer 11 is operated, managed, and controlled by the client 16. The client 16 is, for example, a person in charge at a local government. Local governments are classified into, for example, ordinary local public entities and special local public entities. Ordinary local public entities may be prefectures, cities, towns, villages, etc. Special local public entities may be special wards, associations of local public entities, property districts, etc. Furthermore, the same local government may have multiple client computers 11. In addition, separate client computers 11 may be set up for each different local government, that is, multiple client computers 11. By operating the client computer 11, the client 16 can request content creation from the contractor computer 12. The client computer 11 can acquire content sent from the contractor computer 12.

[0013] Furthermore, the client 16 can access the administrator computer 13 via the website on the network 15 by operating the client computer 11. In addition, the client 16 can send various types of information to the administrator computer 13 and retrieve various types of information from the administrator computer 13 by operating the client computer 11.

[0014] Here, content refers to the substance of the information, and includes regional information that characterizes the region including the location of client 16. Regional information includes items such as the location (address) of client 16, the location of client 16 in map data, the industries of the region including client 16's location, companies located in the region including client 16's location, local products of the region including client 16's location, tourist attractions in the region including client 16's location, scenery of the region including client 16's location, history of the region including client 16's location, events held in the region including client 16's location, etc. Content also includes, for example, text, images, videos, images, music, software, data, etc. Text consists of characters, words, sentences, stories, novels, etc. Regional industries include agriculture, forestry and fisheries, mining, manufacturing, public utilities, transportation, communication and warehousing, construction, commerce, finance, insurance and real estate, other service industries, steelmaking, automotive industry, software-related IT industry, etc.

[0015] Images are still images and may include, for example, photographs, illustrations, or maps. Images may be electronically created images, or developed photographs or hand-drawn or printed illustrations that have been digitized by a predetermined method (e.g., scanning). Videos may include, for example, video footage, animated footage, or computer graphics. Music may include, for example, musical pieces, conversations, sounds, or other audio data. Software may include, for example, an application for content creation, or a program that performs a series of processes to serve other purposes.

[0016] The client's computer 11 includes, for example, portable computers and fixed computers. Portable computers include smartphones and tablet computers. Fixed computers include desktop computers, notebook computers, etc.

[0017] The client computer 11, as shown in FIG. 1, includes a main body (casing), a processor 17, a main storage device 18, an auxiliary storage device 19, an input device 20, an output device 21, a communication device 22, and the like. The processor 17 may be provided inside the main body and may be configured by a central processing unit (CPU) in which an arithmetic unit (arithmetic circuit) and a control unit (control circuit) are integrated. The processor 17 is communicatively connected to the main storage device 18, the auxiliary storage device 19, the input device 20, the output device 21, the communication device 22, and the like via a communication bus 23.

[0018] Instead of or in addition to the central processing unit, the processor 17 may include an arithmetic processing circuit such as a digital signal processor, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a graphics processing unit (GPU), or the like. The GPU performs processing on images, moving images, videos, music, and the like.

[0019] The processor 17 is configured to comprehensively control other devices and circuits provided inside the main body, and devices and circuits provided outside the main body in accordance with programs, data, instructions, and the like read from the main storage device 18.

[0020] The processor 17 executes processing of information, data, instructions, and the like by operating a non-transitory program. The non-transitory program may be any of a program stored in the auxiliary storage device 19 or a program acquired from the outside via the network 15. The processing executed by the processor 17 includes: reading information from the auxiliary storage device 19; processing and determining information and instructions acquired from the trustee computer 12 and the administrator computer 13; executing processing, determination, and control according to operations performed on the client computer 11; storing a history of processing, determination, and control performed by the client computer 11 in the auxiliary storage device 19; transmitting information and instructions from the client computer 11 to the trustee computer 12 and the administrator computer 13; and the like.

[0021] The main storage device 18 is a volatile storage device and a non-transitory storage medium. The main storage device 18 is implemented by, for example, RAM (Random Access Memory). A volatile storage device retains information, data, instructions, etc. while power is supplied thereto, and erases the information, data, instructions, etc. when power is not supplied thereto. The main storage device 18 functions as a work area and a buffer area for storing programs, data, instructions, etc. retrieved from the auxiliary storage device 19 when the processor 17 executes processing of programs, data, instructions, etc.

[0022] The auxiliary storage device 19 is a non-volatile storage device and a non-transitory storage medium. A non-volatile storage device retains information, data, instructions, etc. while power is supplied thereto, and can retain the information, data, instructions, etc. even when power supply is interrupted. Non-transitory applications, programs, instructions, information and data are stored in the auxiliary storage device 19. Further, information and data to be processed by the processor 17 are stored in the auxiliary storage device 19. The information and data stored in the auxiliary storage device 19 include information and data before being processed by the processor 17, information and data after being processed by the processor 17, and the like.

[0023] The auxiliary storage device 19 has a larger capacity than the main storage device 18, and operates in accordance with input instructions and output instructions from the processor 17. The auxiliary storage device 19 is implemented by, for example, a head and a non-transitory storage medium 24. The head is configured to write information and data to the storage medium 24 and read information and data from the storage medium 24.

[0024] The storage medium 24 can be implemented using a magnetic disk, optical disk, flash memory, etc. An example of a magnetic disk is a hard disk drive. Examples of optical disks include compact discs, digital video discs, Blu-ray discs, etc. Flash memory is a type of semiconductor memory, and examples of flash memory include SD memory cards, USB flash drives, solid-state drives, etc. The storage medium 24 may be configured to be attachable to and detachable from the main unit of the client's computer 11.

[0025] The input device 20 is a device operated by the client 16. The input device 20 may consist of devices such as a display device 25, a keyboard, a mouse, a touchpad, operation buttons, a microphone, and an image acquisition device. The display device 25 is implemented as a display, for example, a liquid crystal display or an organic electroluminescent display. The display device 25 displays an operation screen, which displays images, videos, operation buttons, operation tabs, etc.

[0026] A microphone is an electronic component that converts sound information into an electrical signal and outputs it. A microphone may be directly mounted on the main unit or connected to the main unit via a cable.

[0027] The image acquisition device photographs an object to generate an image, converts the generated image into an electrical signal, and outputs it. The image acquisition device includes, for example, a camera, scanner, barcode reader, etc. The image acquisition device may be directly mounted on the main unit or connected to the main unit via a cable. The objects photographed by the image acquisition device include scenery, people, documents, barcodes, QR codes (registered trademark), etc. The images include videos, still images, photographs, etc. The images generated by the image acquisition device are stored in the auxiliary storage device 9.

[0028] The devices included in the input device 20 are appropriately selected depending on whether the client's computer 11 is a portable terminal or a fixed terminal, and the mounting structure to the main unit is also appropriately selected. In other words, the input device 20 has a structure that is directly attached to the main unit, or a structure that is connected to the main unit via a cable.

[0029] The input device 20 is operated when inputting information and data to the client computer 11, when executing various processes on the client computer 11, when sending various information and data from the client computer 11 to the network 15, when the client computer 11 acquires various information and data via the network 15, etc. The information and data input to the client computer 11 by the input device 20 includes images, videos, text, music, etc. The information acquired by the client computer 11 via the auxiliary storage device 19 and the network 15 includes non-temporary programs, text, images, videos, music, etc.

[0030] The output device 21 includes devices such as a display device 25, a printer, and a speaker. The display device 25 is the same as the display device 25 in the input device 20. The speaker is a device that converts electrical signals contained in information and data into sound information and outputs it. The speaker may be directly attached to the main unit or connected to the main unit by a cable. The printer prints information and data onto paper using toner or ink and outputs it.

[0031] The communication device 22 includes devices, equipment, and standards for connecting the client's computer 11 to the network 15 via at least one of either a wireless communication system or a wired communication system. The devices and equipment for connecting the client's computer 11 to the network 15 include cables, antennas, routers, communication circuits, communication ports, communication connectors, communication hubs, etc.

[0032] (Configuration of the contractor's computer) The contractor computer 12 is a computer used by an organization or individual. In this embodiment, we will describe an example in which a content production company, which is an example of a contractor, uses the contractor computer 12. The content production company receives a request to produce content from the client and delivers the produced content to the local government. Specifically, the contractor 26 can receive a request to produce content from the client computer 11 by operating the contractor computer 12. The contractor computer 12 can send the produced content to the client computer 11.

[0033] Furthermore, the contractor 26 can access the administrator computer 13 via the website on the network 15 by operating the contractor computer 12. In addition, the contractor 26 can send various types of information to the administrator computer 13 and retrieve various types of information from the administrator computer 13 by operating the contractor computer 12.

[0034] As shown in Figure 1, the contractor's computer 12 comprises a main unit (casing), a processor 27, main memory 28, auxiliary storage 29, an input device 30, an output device 31, a communication device 32, etc. The processor 27 is connected to the main memory 28, auxiliary storage 29, input device 30, output device 31, communication device 32, etc. via a communication bus 33. The processor 27 has a configuration that comprehensively controls other devices and circuits located inside the main unit, as well as devices and circuits located outside the main unit, according to non-temporary programs, data, and instructions read from the main memory 28.

[0035] The main memory 28 is a volatile memory device and a non-temporary storage medium. The main memory 28 is implemented, for example, by RAM (Random Access Memory). The main memory 28 functions as a work area and buffer area for storing programs, data, instructions, etc., retrieved from the auxiliary memory 29 when the processor 27 executes processing of programs, data, instructions, etc.

[0036] The auxiliary storage device 29 is a non-temporary storage medium, and stores non-temporary applications, programs, instructions, information, and data in it. The auxiliary storage device 19 is implemented, for example, by a head and a non-temporary storage medium. The head has a configuration that writes information and data to the storage medium and reads information and data from the storage medium.

[0037] The input device 30 is a device operated by the contractor 26. The input device 30 may consist of devices such as a display device, keyboard, mouse, touchpad, operation buttons, microphone, image acquisition device, etc.

[0038] The output device 31 includes devices such as display devices, printers, and speakers. The communication device 32 includes devices, equipment, and standards for connecting the contractor's computer 12 to the network 15 via at least one of either a wireless communication system or a wired communication system. The devices and equipment for connecting the contractor's computer 12 to the network 15 include cables, antennas, routers, communication circuits, communication ports, communication connectors, communication hubs, etc.

[0039] (User computer configuration) User computer 14 is a computer used by users who wish to obtain content from administrator computer 13. Users may be individuals or organizations. In this embodiment, user computer 14 is used by an employee of a general company, who is an example of a user 34. By operating user computer 14, user 34 can access administrator computer 13 from the website on network 15. User computer 14 can send a request to administrator computer 13 for content acquisition. User computer 14 can receive the requested content from administrator computer 13.

[0040] As shown in Figure 1, the user computer 14 comprises a main unit (casing), a processor 35, main memory 36, auxiliary storage 37, an input device 38, an output device 39, a communication device 40, etc. The processor 35 is connected to the main memory 36, auxiliary storage 37, input device 38, output device 39, communication device 40, etc. via a communication bus 41. The processor 35 has a configuration that comprehensively controls other devices and circuits located inside the main unit, as well as devices and circuits located outside the main unit, according to non-temporary programs, data, and instructions read from the main memory 36.

[0041] The main memory 36 is a volatile memory device and a non-temporary storage medium. The main memory 36 is implemented, for example, by RAM (Random Access Memory). The main memory 36 functions as a work area and buffer area for storing programs, data, instructions, etc., retrieved from the auxiliary memory 37 when the processor 35 executes processing of programs, data, instructions, etc.

[0042] The auxiliary storage device 37 is a non-temporary storage medium, and stores non-temporary applications, programs, instructions, information, and data in it. The auxiliary storage device 37 is implemented, for example, by a head and a non-temporary storage medium. The head has a configuration that writes information and data to the storage medium and reads information and data from the storage medium.

[0043] The input device 38 is a device operated by the user 34. The input device 38 is implemented by devices such as a display device, keyboard, mouse, touchpad, operation buttons, microphone, image acquisition device, etc.

[0044] The output device 39 includes devices such as display devices, printers, and speakers. The communication device 40 includes devices, equipment, and standards for connecting the user computer 14 to the network 15 via at least one of either a wireless communication system or a wired communication system. The devices and equipment for connecting the user computer 14 to the network 15 include cables, antennas, routers, communication circuits, communication ports, communication connectors, communication hubs, etc.

[0045] (Administrator computer configuration) The administrator computer 13 is a computer implemented by various hardware and software. The administrator computer 13 is managed and operated by the administrator 50. The software includes an operating system and applications. The administrator computer 13 has hardware such as a main unit (casing), processor 42, main memory 43, auxiliary memory 44, and communication device 45.

[0046] The processor 42 is located inside the main body of the administrator computer 13 and may be composed of a central processing unit (CPU) that integrates an arithmetic unit (arithmetic circuit) and a control unit (control circuit). The processor 42 is communicated to the main memory 43, auxiliary memory 44, communication device 45, etc. via a communication bus 46. The processor 42 comprehensively controls other devices and circuits located inside the main body and devices and circuits located outside the main body.

[0047] Furthermore, the processor 42 may have, in addition to or instead of a central processing unit, other processing circuits such as a digital signal processor, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit). The GPU processes the image data and audio data.

[0048] The processor 42 executes various processes by running programs. The processes executed by the processor 42 include arithmetic, judgment, learning, comparison, identification, classification, control, generation, etc. The processes executed by the processor 42 include reading programs, information, and data from the auxiliary storage device 44, processing information and data acquired via the network 15, processing information and data to be transmitted to the client computer 11, the contractor computer 12, and the user computer 14, adding, changing, and updating information and data stored in the auxiliary storage device 44, etc.

[0049] The main memory 43 is a volatile and non-temporary storage medium. The main memory 43 is implemented, for example, by RAM (Random Access Memory). The main memory 43 functions as a work area and buffer area for storing programs, data, instructions, etc., retrieved from the auxiliary storage device 44 when the processor 42 executes processing of programs, data, instructions, etc.

[0050] The auxiliary storage device 44 is a non-volatile and non-temporary storage medium. The auxiliary storage device 44 may also be understood as storage. The auxiliary storage device 44 may be located inside the main unit or located outside the main unit and connected to the main unit by a cable. The auxiliary storage device 44 has a larger capacity than the main memory 43 and operates according to input and output commands from the processor 42. The auxiliary storage device 44 stores various non-temporary programs, various processing results performed by the processor 42, various judgment results performed by the processor 42, various inference results performed by the processor 42, and content, information, and data acquired from various computers.

[0051] The auxiliary storage device 44 is implemented, for example, by a head and a storage medium 47. The head is configured to read data and information from the storage medium 47 and write data and information to the storage medium. The auxiliary storage device 44 is implemented by a magnetic disk, an optical disk, etc. An example of a magnetic disk is a hard disk drive. An example of an optical disk is a compact disc, a digital video disc, a Blu-ray disc, etc. The storage medium 47 may also be configured to be attached to and detached from the head.

[0052] The auxiliary storage device 44 may be implemented using flash memory without a head. Flash memory is a type of semiconductor memory, and examples of flash memory include SD memory cards, USB flash drives, solid-state drives, etc. The flash memory can also be understood as a storage medium 47 configured to be attached to and removed from the main unit. Various non-temporary programs, text, images, videos, audio, etc. are stored in the storage medium 47. Regional information and additional information may be attached to the various types of information and data stored in the storage medium 47. The additional information will be described later. Furthermore, the various non-temporary programs stored in the auxiliary storage device 44 may be programs pre-stored in the storage medium 47, or programs obtained from various computers via the network 15.

[0053] The communication device 45 includes devices, equipment, and standards for connecting the administrator computer 13 to the network 15 via at least one of either a wireless communication system or a wired communication system. The devices and equipment for connecting the administrator computer 13 to the network 15 include cables, antennas, routers, communication circuits, communication ports, communication connectors, communication hubs, etc.

[0054] Furthermore, the administrator computer 13 may be equipped with an input device 48 and an output device 49. The input device 48 is a device operated by the administrator 50. The input device 48 may consist of devices such as a display device, keyboard, mouse, touchpad, operation buttons, microphone, and image acquisition device. The input device 48 is operated when inputting information and data to the administrator computer 13, when causing the administrator computer 13 to execute various processes, etc. By operating the input device 48, the administrator 50 can also add regional information, additional information, etc. to the various contents and information stored in the auxiliary storage device 44.

[0055] The output device 49 includes devices such as a display device, printer, and speaker. The display device is the same as the display device in the input device 48. The output device 49 can output information, data, etc., acquired by the administrator computer 13 in the form of visual information and audio information.

[0056] The processor 42 runs non-temporary programs and works in cooperation with hardware such as the main memory 43, auxiliary memory 44, and communication device 45 to realize various functional components shown in Figure 2. For example, as shown in Figure 2, the processor 42 realizes the website management unit 51, user information processing unit 52, content processing unit 53, regional information processing unit 54, content acquisition request processing unit 55, artificial intelligence unit 56, etc.

[0057] The website management unit 51 provides a website on the network 15 at a predetermined uniform resource locator (URL) by running a web application. When an external computer accesses the administrator computer 13 via the website, the website management unit 51 implements the following functions: sending a web page written in HTML (Hyper Text Markup Language), etc., to the external computer; acquiring information and data sent from the external computer; and sending information and data to the external computer. The information and data sent from the administrator computer 13 to the external computer includes a content search screen. The technical meaning of the content search screen will be described later. The external computer includes the client computer 11, the contractor computer 12, the user computer 14, and various other computers not shown.

[0058] The user information processing unit 52 processes the client information, contractor information, and user information obtained from an external computer, and also registers the clients 16, contractors 26, and users 34. The client information, contractor information, and user information will be described later. The user information processing unit 52 also stores the processing results of the client information, contractor information, and user information, as well as the user registration results for clients 16, contractors 26, and users 34, in the auxiliary storage device 44.

[0059] The content processing unit 53 processes the content acquired from the client's computer 11 and stores the content in the auxiliary storage device 44. The processing performed by the content processing unit 53 includes, for example, adding auxiliary information to the content, classifying the content according to the items included in the auxiliary information, classifying the images, videos, audio, text, etc. included in the content, tagging each classified piece of content, adding metadata to the content, and processing the content. The auxiliary information is the content specification (metadata), and the specification includes items such as the file name and folder name of the content, the client 16, the contractor 26 and the creator of the content, the date the content was created, the purpose of creating the content, and the name of the region (location) related to the content.

[0060] The content processing performed by the content processing unit 53 may be footage processing. Footage processing is a function that extracts the video material itself, which has been filmed and not edited, or specific scenes or cuts that are included in the content. For example, the content processing unit 53 may break down the video delivered from the client computer 11 to the administrator computer 13 and store and manage each scene included in the video.

[0061] Furthermore, the content processing performed by the content processing unit 53 may also be a function to remove text information such as subtitles and captions contained in the image. If the content processing unit 53 has such a function, users who obtain desired content from the administrator computer 13 will be able to easily utilize the desired content in the production of various types of videos, such as promotional videos, commercials, programs, movies, and music videos. Users include the client 16, the contractor 26, and the user 34.

[0062] Furthermore, the content processing unit 53 may implement a restriction function that assigns an expiration date to the content acquired from the client computer 11. The restriction function implemented by the content processing unit 53 prohibits the administrator computer 13 from providing the content to an external computer once a predetermined period of availability has elapsed from the time the administrator computer 13 acquired the content from the client computer 11. Furthermore, the content processing unit 53 may have a function to remind the client computer 11 before the predetermined period of availability has elapsed from the time the administrator computer 13 acquired the content from the client computer 11.

[0063] Furthermore, the content processing unit 53 may, in cooperation with the artificial intelligence unit 56, determine whether the content obtained from the client computer 11 infringes one or more rights, such as copyright infringement or portrait rights infringement. In addition, the content processing unit 53 may have a function to confirm with the contractor computer 12 whether the content obtained from the client computer 11 infringes one or more rights, such as copyright infringement or portrait rights infringement.

[0064] The regional information processing unit 54 works in cooperation with the artificial intelligence unit 56 to perform various processes. For example, the regional information processing unit 54 classifies the regional information contained in the content acquired from the client computer 11 and the regional information contained in the auxiliary information for each region, and stores the classified regional information in the auxiliary storage device 44.

[0065] Furthermore, the regional information processing unit 54, in cooperation with the artificial intelligence unit 56, extracts and classifies regional information related to the regional information of the content and the regional information of the auxiliary information from information obtainable from an external computer via the network 15 as additional information. Additional information is information that is not included in the regional information of the content or the regional information of the auxiliary information, but is related to the regional information of the content and the regional information of the auxiliary information. In addition, the regional information processing unit 54 stores the auxiliary regional information in the auxiliary storage device 44.

[0066] Furthermore, the regional information processing unit 54 may acquire information and data on industries that each local government throughout the country is actively seeking to attract. Each local government throughout the country operates and manages an external computer, and provides a website from this external computer to the network 15. The administrator computer 13 can acquire information and data on industries that each local government throughout the country is actively seeking to attract by accessing the website operated and managed by each local government throughout the country.

[0067] The content acquisition request processing unit 55 processes the "content acquisition request" received from the external computer and instructs the artificial intelligence unit 56 to generate a prompt corresponding to the "content acquisition request". The content acquisition request processing unit 55 also stores the date and time the "content acquisition request" was received, the account of the external computer that submitted the "content acquisition request", the content of the "content acquisition request", etc., in the auxiliary storage device 44.

[0068] Furthermore, the content acquisition request processing unit 55 may determine whether or not it has received a request to acquire content from an external computer used by a user interested in the industries included in the regional information. If the content acquisition request processing unit 55 receives a request to acquire content from an external computer used by a user interested in the industries included in the regional information, it may transmit this fact to the client computer 11.

[0069] Furthermore, the content acquisition request processing unit 55 may have a function to determine user information of user 34 using user computer 14. The user information determined by the content acquisition request processing unit 55 includes, if user 34 is an individual, regions of interest; if user 34 is an individual, regions that could be considered for relocation; if user 34 is an individual, tourist destinations that user 34 would like to visit; if user 34 is a group, industries; if user 34 is a group, regions where business expansion is being considered, etc.

[0070] When the program is run, the artificial intelligence unit 56 works in cooperation with the content processing unit 53, the regional information processing unit 54, the content acquisition request processing unit 55, and the auxiliary storage device 44 to perform various processes. The processes performed by the artificial intelligence unit 56 include machine learning processing and inference processing, etc. The information and data used by the artificial intelligence unit 56 to perform the processes include images, videos, music, text, models, etc.

[0071] In the machine learning processing of the Artificial Intelligence Department 56, a learning model (a model for learning) is trained using supervised learning, unsupervised learning, and reinforcement learning, and a trained model is generated. In supervised learning, the learning model is trained by inputting the data to be learned into the learning model, obtaining output data, and comparing the output data with the correct labels, thereby generating a trained model. Unsupervised learning is a method of training using training data that does not contain correct labels, and classifies the training data into groups of data with similar features (such as regularities). Reinforcement learning is a method of strengthening the learning model by trial and error based on the output data and acquiring guidance on the optimal action, such as "this is what should be done in this case," to achieve the objective.

[0072] In the inference stage of the artificial intelligence unit 56, the inference target data, which is the input data, is processed by the trained model to generate an inference result, and the inference result is output as output data. In this embodiment, when a content acquisition request, which is an example of the inference target data, is input to the artificial intelligence unit 56, it has the function of generating the desired content as an inference result and outputting the desired content as output data.

[0073] The artificial intelligence unit 56 can use a neural network as a learning model to realize machine learning. A neural network has an input layer, an intermediate layer (hidden layer), and an output layer. Input data is acquired in the input layer. In the intermediate layer, functions (features) of the acquired input data are extracted, and weights and biases are assigned to the functions. In the output layer, processing results such as prediction and classification are output as output data based on the data processed in the intermediate layer. Furthermore, the artificial intelligence unit 56 can perform deep learning in realizing the intermediate layer of the neural network. In deep learning, the intermediate layer is multi-layered with multiple types of stages (nodes). Deep learning can reduce noise in the information and data input to the learning model because it automatically instructs the intermediate layer to focus on functions (features).

[0074] Furthermore, the artificial intelligence unit 56 may perform general-purpose natural language processing using a large-scale language model that has learned from a vast amount of data. Natural language processing enables the computer to understand text data and audio information written in natural language, allowing the prompt generation unit 57 to generate prompts corresponding to the desired content acquisition, and the desired content generation unit 58 to generate the language to be included in the desired content. Natural language processing processes natural language by combining processes such as morphological analysis, syntactic analysis, semantic analysis, contextual analysis, and intent analysis, enabling machine translation, text summarization, speech recognition, and the like.

[0075] A language model is a type of probabilistic model used in natural language processing. It is a model that probabilistically predicts the conditions under which a given word or sentence is likely to be used in natural language. Language models are used to automatically generate words and sentences that are likely to appear based on the context, by calculating the probability of occurrence of a given word or sentence sequence, or by comparing the probability of occurrence of multiple word or sentence sequences.

[0076] The artificial intelligence unit 56 has the function of generating language by processing sound information and sound data contained in content acquired from the client computer 11, and sound information and sound data contained in information acquired from external computers connected to the network 15, using a large-scale language model. By utilizing the large-scale language model, the artificial intelligence unit 56 can generate output data such as text classification, sentiment analysis of text, information extraction from text, text summarization, and text generation.

[0077] Furthermore, the artificial intelligence unit 56 repeatedly learns on its own through deep learning during the machine learning process, and based on the characteristics of the information and data it discovers during that learning process, the relationships between pieces of information, and the relationships between pieces of data, it functions as a generative artificial intelligence. The relationships between pieces of information and the relationships between pieces of data include correlation and causation.

[0078] When the artificial intelligence unit 56 functions as a generative artificial intelligence unit, it can perform text generation, image generation, video generation, and audio generation. Text generation is a function that, when a text-formatted prompt is input, analyzes the content and intent of the prompt and uses the information and data stored in the auxiliary storage device 44 to automatically generate a response (in text format) to the prompt. The technical meaning of the prompt will be explained later.

[0079] Image generation is a function that automatically generates an original image that closely resembles the prompt's image, using information and data stored in the auxiliary storage device 44 in response to an input prompt (in text format). For example, image generation AIs such as Stable Diffusion, MidJourney, and Dali2 are well known.

[0080] Video generation is a function that automatically generates an original video that closely resembles the image of a prompt (in text format) by using information and data stored in the auxiliary storage device 44 in response to an input prompt. For example, the Gentoo video generation AI is well known.

[0081] Speech generation is a function that automatically generates original audio data (voice, music, etc.) using information and data stored in the auxiliary storage device 44 in response to an input prompt (in voice or text format). Furthermore, by training it with a large amount of voice data from a specific person, it can read various texts in the exact same voice quality as that person, even when that person is not present. For example, the speech generation AI known as Balui is a well-known example.

[0082] Then, when the program is run, the artificial intelligence unit 56 works in cooperation with the content processing unit 53, the regional information processing unit 54, the content acquisition request processing unit 55, and the auxiliary storage device 44 to realize the prompt generation unit 57 and the desired content generation unit 58. The prompt generation unit 57 generates prompts for the desired content generation unit 58 to generate desired content that matches the acquisition request received from the external computer, from among the content acquired from the client computer 11 and stored in the auxiliary storage device 44, and the regional information of the region included in the content that matches the acquisition request among the content stored in the auxiliary storage device 44.

[0083] Furthermore, the prompt generation unit 57 may generate a prompt without processing the "content acquisition request" obtained from an external computer. Alternatively, the prompt generation unit 57 may generate a prompt by processing the "content acquisition request" with a large-scale language model. The prompt includes one or more items from among various commands and instructions, various requests, various conditions, various questions, etc., for the desired content generation unit 58 to generate content corresponding to the "content acquisition request".

[0084] The requested content generation unit 58, upon receiving a request for content acquisition from an external computer, implements a function to generate requested content that matches the acquisition request from the content acquired from the client computer 11 and stored in the auxiliary storage device 44, and that includes regional information of the region included in the content that matches the acquisition request among the content stored in the auxiliary storage device 44.

[0085] Specifically, the desired content generation unit 58 is configured to generate desired content based on the prompt generated by the prompt generation unit 57, and to output the generated desired content. Desired content based on a prompt is content that satisfies one or more items included in the prompt. The desired content is generated by combining content and auxiliary information obtained from the client computer 11, information obtained from an external computer, additional information, etc.

[0086] Furthermore, the desired content generation unit 58 may have a function to generate auxiliary content that includes regional information suitable for the industry operated by the user 34 using the user computer 14, and to provide the generated auxiliary content to the user computer 14. In addition, the desired content generation unit 58 may have a function to generate auxiliary content that includes regional information, including regions that the user using the user computer 14 may consider relocating to, and to provide the generated auxiliary content to the user computer.

[0087] Furthermore, the desired content generation unit 58 may have a function to generate auxiliary content including regional information corresponding to the user information of the user 34 determined by the content acquisition request processing unit 55, and a function to transmit the generated auxiliary content to the user computer 14. The auxiliary content includes items such as regional information corresponding to the user information, the location (address) of the client 16 in that region, the location of the client 16 in map data, the industry of the region including the location of the client 16, companies located in the region including the location of the client 16, local products of the region including the location of the client 16, tourist attractions in the region including the location of the client 16, scenery of the region including the location of the client 16, the history of the region including the location of the client 16, and events held in the region including the location of the client 16. In addition, the auxiliary content may be implemented using, for example, text, images, videos, images, music, software, data, etc.

[0088] The technical meaning of auxiliary content will be explained later. The desired content generation unit 58 generates auxiliary content based on various information, data, and content stored in the auxiliary storage device 44, and various information and data acquired via the network 15. The desired content generation unit 58 may be provided independently of the artificial intelligence unit 56.

[0089] The artificial intelligence unit 56 processes sound information and text contained in the sound data acquired from the client computer 11 using a large-scale language model to generate text data. Furthermore, the artificial intelligence unit 56 repeatedly learns on its own through deep learning during the machine learning process, and based on the characteristics of the information and data discovered during that learning process, the relationships between pieces of information, and the relationships between pieces of data, it automatically generates new information and data; in other words, it functions as generative artificial intelligence. The relationships between pieces of information and the relationships between pieces of data include correlation and causation.

[0090] When the artificial intelligence unit 56 functions as a generative artificial intelligence unit, it can perform text generation, image generation, video generation, and speech generation. Text generation is a function that, when a prompt (in text format), such as a question or command, is input, analyzes the content and intent of the prompt, and uses information and data stored in auxiliary memory to automatically generate a response (in text format) to the prompt. Because it utilizes a large-scale language model, natural and highly accurate responses can be obtained.

[0091] The artificial intelligence unit 56 prepares training data, which is input data for machine learning regarding copyright and portrait rights, and ground truth data (labels) for machine learning regarding copyright and portrait rights, and processes the training data with a learning model to obtain output data. The training data and learning model for machine learning regarding copyright and portrait rights may be stored in the auxiliary storage device 44 by operating the input device 48, or automatically acquired by the artificial intelligence unit 56 from an external computer connected to the network 15. The artificial intelligence unit 56 then trains the learning model based on the error between the output data and the ground truth data to generate a trained model.

[0092] The artificial intelligence unit 56, during the inference phase, can use a trained model to determine whether the input data, i.e., the content to be inferred, infringes one or more rights, such as copyright infringement or portrait rights infringement, and output the result of this determination as output data. The artificial intelligence unit 56 can determine whether or not copyright infringement and portrait rights infringement exist for all images, videos, text, and music included in the content.

[0093] The auxiliary storage device 44 is implemented by one or more configurations, either by being located inside the main body of the administrator computer 13 or by being located outside the main body. The auxiliary storage device 44 stores non-temporary applications operated by the processor 42, information and data before processing by the processor 42, and information and data as a result of processing performed by the processor 42. The non-temporary applications stored in the auxiliary storage device 44 include non-temporary programs, manuals, configuration files, data storage files, data, various libraries, etc. The information and data stored in the auxiliary storage device 44 also include hypertext data that constitutes web pages on a website, etc.

[0094] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 2, the auxiliary storage device 44 is implemented including a user information storage unit 59, a machine learning data storage unit 60, a large-scale language model storage unit 61, a regional information storage unit 62, a content storage unit 63, a desired content storage unit 64, and the like. The user information storage unit 59 stores the client information, contractor information, user information, and the results of user registration for the client 16, contractor 26, and user 34, which have been processed by the user information processing unit 52.

[0095] The machine learning data storage unit 60 stores the learning model and trained model used in the machine learning process, the training data and ground truth data used in the machine learning process, and the output data generated by the machine learning process. The machine learning data storage unit 60 also stores the learning data, which is the input data for performing machine learning on copyright and portrait rights, the ground truth data (labels) for performing machine learning on copyright and portrait rights, the learning model used for machine learning on copyright and portrait rights, the output data obtained by processing the learning data with the learning model, and the trained model obtained by training the learning model based on the error between the output data and the ground truth data.

[0096] The large-scale language model memory unit 61 stores the large-scale language model. The large-scale language model is trained by machine learning processing using input data input to the artificial intelligence unit 56, such as a huge amount of text data and correct answer data. The regional information memory unit 62 stores regional information of each country and region acquired from an external computer, and regional information of each country and region contained in content acquired from the client computer 11.

[0097] The content storage unit 63 stores the content processed by the content processing unit 53. The content stored in the content storage unit 63 is archived in data sets grouped by items such as the region related to the content, the purpose of the content's creation, the date of creation, the content's commissioner 16, and the content's contractor 26. Each piece of content is also stored in the content storage unit 63 along with its metadata. The desired content storage unit 64 stores the desired content and auxiliary content generated by the desired content generation unit 58.

[0098] (An example of an information management method) Figure 3 shows an example of an information management method. The information management method includes processing performed on the client computer 11, the contractor computer 12, the administrator computer 13, and the user computer 14. In Figure 3, the processing performed on the administrator computer 13 is realized by the processor 42 running a program.

[0099] (1) Consignor (local government) A predetermined contract has been concluded between the client 16 and the contractor 26. The predetermined contract includes items such as the contractor 26 transferring to the client 16 the rights stipulated in the Copyright Act to the content, which is the deliverable produced by the contractor in the commissioned content production work. Assuming that the predetermined contract has been concluded, the client computer 11 issues a request to the contractor computer 12 for content production in step S10.

[0100] After step S10, the client's computer 11 retrieves the content created by the contractor from the contractor's computer 12. The client 16 can then use the retrieved content on their owned media, such as newsletters and brochures, catalogs, websites provided by the client's computer 11 at a designated URL on the network 15, etc.

[0101] The client computer 11 has already registered client information on a website provided by the administrator computer 13 at a designated URL on the network 15. The client information includes the client's name or company name, address, telephone number, email address, account, etc. Each account is assigned to a different client 16 and can identify different clients 16 from one another. The account includes an identification number and password, etc.

[0102] The client 16 pays the administrator 50 of the administrator computer 13 a contract fee related to the storage of content and the use of the stored content. Then, in step S12, which follows step S11, the client computer 11 sends the content and supporting information of the content to the administrator computer 13. The technical significance of this step S12 is that a request has been made for the administrator computer 13 to store the content created on the contractor computer 12.

[0103] In step S13, which is after step S12, the client computer 11 can send a request to the administrator computer 13 for the acquisition of content that the client 16 wishes to use from the content stored on the administrator computer 13. For example, the client computer 11 can send a request to the administrator computer 13 for content acquisition by specifying auxiliary information of content that has been previously sent to the administrator computer 13. Alternatively, the client 16 may specify the items of content they wish to acquire on the content search screen displayed on the display device 25 of the input device 20 and send a request to the administrator computer 13 for content acquisition.

[0104] The items that can be specified on the content search screen include, for example, region, people / lifestyle, scenery, business, objects, etc. Regions are subdivided into countries, states, prefectures, cities, towns, etc. People are subdivided into people, lifestyles, events / occasions, sports / exercises, etc. Scenery is subdivided into nature / landscapes, Japanese scenery, overseas scenery, sky, etc. Businesses are subdivided into occupations, businesses, industries, etc. Objects are subdivided into vegetables / ingredients, dishes / food, vehicles / transportation, musical instruments, etc. In addition, content can also be specified by format, such as images, videos, music, etc.

[0105] The client computer 11 can download, or obtain, the content requested in step S13 from the administrator computer 13 in step S14, which follows step S13. The client 16 can also enter into a contract with the administrator 50 to make the content obtained from the administrator computer 13 royalty-free (free of charge) when used for non-commercial purposes. This eliminates the need for users to pay usage fees each time they use licenses such as copyright and portrait rights, and the hassle of doing so, allowing for efficient content creation and project progress.

[0106] Client 16 may enter into a contract with Administrator 50 stating that a separate usage fee will be incurred if it obtains and uses content from Administrator Computer 13 for commercial purposes, including PR. Furthermore, if Client 16 is a general company and downloads content from Administrator Computer 13 for purposes such as karaoke, it may enter into a contract with Administrator 50 stating that a usage fee will be incurred. Similarly, if Client 16 is a travel agency and uses content for promotional purposes, it may enter into a contract stating that a usage fee will be incurred. In all cases, a portion of the usage fee may be returned to Contractor 26.

[0107] (2) Contractor (Content creator) The contractor computer 12 accesses a website provided by the administrator computer 13, sends contractor information to the administrator computer 13, and registers the contractor information. The contractor information includes the name or company name of the contractor 26, the address of the contractor 26, telephone number, email address, account, etc. An account is assigned to each contractor 26 and allows them to identify each other. The account includes an identification number and password, etc.

[0108] The contractor 26 and the administrator 50 can enter into a contract for a basic plan as a pricing plan. The basic plan is a fixed annual fee. Once the basic plan contract is concluded between the contractor 26 and the administrator 50, the contractor's computer 12 can access (download) content from the administrator's computer 13 without limit.

[0109] In step S20, the contractor computer 12 can obtain a content creation request from the client computer 11. The contractor 26 creates the content based on the content creation request. In step S21, the contractor computer 12 delivers the created content to the client computer 11.

[0110] In the contractor computer 12, during a predetermined period from the time the contractor information is registered with the administrator computer 13, the contractor 26 can send a request to the administrator computer 13 in step S22 to retrieve content that the contractor 26 wishes to use from the content stored in the administrator computer 13. For example, the contractor 26 specifies the item of the content they wish to retrieve on the content search screen displayed on the display device of the input device 30 and sends the request to the administrator computer 13 to retrieve the content.

[0111] The contractor's computer 12 can obtain the content requested in step S22 from the administrator computer 13 in step S23, which is after step S22. The contractor 26 can then use the content obtained from the administrator computer 13 on the homepage of the website provided by the contractor 26 on the network 15, on social networking services, in printed materials produced by the contractor 26, etc.

[0112] (3) Administrator computer (administrator) The administrator computer 13 provides a website at a predetermined URL on the network 15. The administrator computer 13 stores client information, contractor information, and user information obtained through the website in the auxiliary storage device 44 and also performs user registration.

[0113] Furthermore, in step S30, the administrator computer 13 obtains the content and specifications from the client computer 11. In step S31, the administrator computer 13 stores the content and specifications obtained from the client computer 11 in the content storage unit 63 of the auxiliary storage device 44. In step S31, the administrator computer 13 may also perform various processes on the content, such as determining whether the content infringes on copyright and portrait rights, and assigning an expiration date to the content.

[0114] Furthermore, the administrator computer 13 may, in step S31, confirm with the contractor computer 12 whether the content obtained from the client computer 11 infringes one or more rights, such as copyright infringement or portrait rights infringement.

[0115] In step S32, which follows step S31, the administrator computer 13 may obtain requests for content acquisition from one or more computers among the client computer 11, the contractor computer 12, and the user computer 14. When the administrator computer 13 obtains requests for content acquisition, it performs various processes in step S32 to generate the requested content. The requested content is content to be provided from the administrator computer 13 to the client computer 11, the contractor computer 12, and the user computer 14. The requested content consists of auxiliary information specified in step S13 by the client computer 11, and information and data including items specified on the content search screen in steps S22 and S40. The requested content can be realized, for example, as text, images, videos, images, music, software, data, etc.

[0116] The various processes performed by the administrator computer 13 in step S32 include, for example, the following: First, the artificial intelligence unit 56 processes the information included in the content acquisition request by referring to a large-scale language model, a trained model, a large amount of training data and correct labels used for machine learning, various information and data obtained from an external computer, etc., and generates a prompt.

[0117] Next, when the artificial intelligence unit 56 inputs a prompt to the desired content generation unit 58, the desired content generation unit 58 generates and outputs desired content corresponding to the prompt. The desired content generated by the desired content generation unit 58 is stored in the desired content storage unit 64 of the auxiliary storage device 44, along with the background information. The background information includes items such as the date the desired content was generated, the computer that acquired the request, and the name of the region included in the desired content. In step S33, the administrator computer 13 transmits the desired content generated in step S32 to the external computer that requested the content acquisition.

[0118] (4)General users General users 34 may operate user computers 14 to access the website provided by administrator computer 13. Users 34 are distinct from the client 16, contractor 26, and administrator 50. User information can be sent from user computer 14 to administrator computer 13, where user registration can be performed. User information includes items such as user 34's name or company name, user 34's address, occupation if user 34 is an individual, regions of interest if user 34 is an individual, regions of potential relocation if user 34 is an individual, tourist destinations that user 34 would like to visit if user 34 is an individual, industry if user 34 is a group, regions where business expansion is being considered if user 34 is a group, telephone number, email address, account, usage period, usage fee, and payment method for usage fees.

[0119] Upon user registration, the terms of service are presented from the administrator computer 13 to the user computer 14. The privacy policy included in these terms of service may state, "We may provide some of the information obtained during user registration to the content provider."

[0120] An account is assigned to each user 34, allowing users 34 to identify each other. The account includes an identification number and password, etc. The usage period is the period from when the user computer 14 registers as a user on the administrator computer 13 until the user can obtain the desired content from the administrator computer 13. The usage fee is the cost of obtaining the desired content from the administrator computer 13. The usage fee may be a monthly flat rate, a pay-per-use rate for obtaining the desired content, or any other method.

[0121] User 34 may operate user computer 14 and, in step S40, send a request to acquire content to administrator computer 13. For example, user 34 may specify the content item they wish to acquire on the content search screen displayed on the display device of input device 38 and send the request to administrator computer 13. User computer 14 can execute the process in step S40 for a predetermined usage period from the time of user registration.

[0122] In step S41, following step S40, the user computer 14 can obtain the desired content from the administrator computer 13 for a fee. The user 34 may return a portion of the usage fee for the desired content to the contractor 26.

[0123] Figure 4 shows an example of a process that can be executed on the administrator computer 13. The processing example in Figure 4 constitutes a part of the information management method shown in Figure 4. In step S50, the administrator computer 13 determines whether or not it has received a request to acquire content from a user computer 14 used by a user 34 who is interested in the industries included in the regional information. If the administrator computer 13 determines Yes in step S50, it executes a "notification process" in step S51 to notify the client computer 11 of the predetermined fact that "a request to acquire content has been received from a user computer 14 used by a user 34 who is interested in the industries included in the two-point regional information." If the administrator computer 13 determines No in step S50, it does not execute the "notification process" (step S52) and terminates the process.

[0124] Furthermore, if the administrator computer 13 receives a request to acquire content from the user computer 14 in step S32 of Figure 3, it may determine the user information of user 34 in step S60 of Figure 4. The user information includes items such as the region of interest if user 34 is an individual, the region of potential relocation if user 34 is an individual, the tourist destination that user 34 would like to visit if user 34 is an individual, the industry if user 34 is a group, and the region where user 34 is considering business expansion if user 34 is a group.

[0125] In step S61, the administrator computer 13 generates supplementary content based on the user information determination result for user 34, which was determined in step S60. The supplementary content differs, at least in part, from the content that user computer 14 requested to obtain in step S40.

[0126] If the region specified by user 34 on the content search screen displayed on the input device 38 is the same as the region included in the user information, the administrator computer 13 generates auxiliary content without considering the region included in the user information determined in step S60. If the region specified by user 34 on the content search screen displayed on the input device 38 is different from the region included in the user information, the administrator computer 13 generates auxiliary content to include the region included in the user information determined in step S60.

[0127] The auxiliary content generated by the administrator computer 13 in step S61 includes regions of interest to the individual user 34, regions that would be potential relocation destinations for the individual user 34, tourist destinations that the individual user 34 would like to visit, and information about the local government in those regions, etc.

[0128] The auxiliary content generated by the administrator computer 13 in step S61 includes regional information suitable for the industry of the user 34, which is an organization. Regional information suitable for the industry of the user 34, which is an organization, includes, for example, regional information of areas with suitable location conditions and environment for the industry operated by user 34, and regional information of areas including local governments that are actively seeking to attract the industry operated by user 34. To give a specific example of suitable location conditions and environment for an industry, for the steel industry, suitable conditions and environment include a stable and solid ground base and abundant water resources. For the software IT industry, suitable conditions and environment include relatively low rent, good access to the nearest station, and good rail access. For the automotive industry, suitable conditions and environment include the ability to secure a relatively large site, easy access to electricity, materials, and parts, and convenient land and water transportation.

[0129] Then, the administrator computer 13 sends the generated auxiliary content to the user computer 14 in step S61 and terminates the process. In the information management method of Figure 3, the auxiliary content is sent to the user computer 14 in step S33. The user computer 14 obtains the auxiliary content from the administrator computer 13 in step S41. Either the process shown at the top of Figure 4 or the process shown at the bottom of Figure 4 may be performed. Alternatively, the process shown at the bottom of Figure 4 may be performed first, and the process shown at the top of Figure 4 may be performed later.

[0130] (Effects of this embodiment) According to this embodiment, it is possible to manage content while taking into account the regional information contained in the content acquired from the client computer 11. Furthermore, the regional information provided to the user computer 14 along with the desired content includes the regional information of the location of the local government that manages the client computer 11. Therefore, the regional information of the location of the local government can be provided to the user computer 14 along with the desired content.

[0131] Furthermore, when the administrator computer 13 receives a request to retrieve content from a user computer 14 used by a user 34 who is interested in the industries included in the local information, it transmits this fact to the client computer 11. Therefore, the local government can recognize that user 34 is interested in the industries included in the local information.

[0132] Furthermore, if user 34 using user computer 14 is an organization, administrator computer 13 may determine the industry the organization operates in. Then, administrator computer 13 transmits supplementary content, including regional information corresponding to the industry operated by user 34, to user computer 14. As a result, the industries included in the local government's regional information become more easily recognizable to user 34.

[0133] Furthermore, if user 34 is an individual, administrator computer 13 may determine potential relocation areas for that individual. Then, administrator computer 13 sends auxiliary content, including information on potential relocation areas for the individual user 34, to user computer 14. Thus, user 34, being an individual, can obtain information on areas to consider for relocation.

[0134] (supplementary explanation) An example of the technical meaning of the matters disclosed in this embodiment is as follows: Processor 42 is an example of a processor. Client computer 11 and user computer 14 are examples of terminal equipment. Client computer 11 is an example of a first terminal device. User 34 is an example of a user. User computer 14 is an example of a second terminal device. Administrator computer 13 is an example of an information management device and computer. Auxiliary storage device 44 is an example of memory. Step S31 in Figure 3 is an example of a first process, step S32 is an example of a second process, and step S33 is an example of a third process.

[0135] Step S50 in Figure 4 is an example of the fourth process, and step S51 is an example of the fifth process. Step S60 in Figure 4 is an example of the sixth and eighth processes, and step S61 is an example of the seventh and ninth processes. The processing examples shown in Figures 3 and 4 are examples of information management methods.

[0136] The computers that make up an information management system consist of one or more computers from among supercomputers, mainframes, servers, workstations, etc. An information management system can also be defined as an information management computer.

[0137] The computers constituting the information management device include a single computer and a distributed computer composed of multiple devices. The distributed computer may be located entirely within the same country, or it may be distributed separately across different countries. The distributed computers are interconnected via a network, enabling communication between them. Furthermore, the country in which the external computers are located and the country in which the information management device is located may be the same or different.

[0138] In this embodiment, the program that operates the administrator computer 13 may be stored in the auxiliary storage device 44. Alternatively, the program may be downloaded from the administrator computer 13 to an external computer, installed in the auxiliary storage device, and run on the external computer.

[0139] This embodiment describes the following characteristic configuration. For example, a non-temporary storage medium storing a non-temporary program that causes a computer connected to a terminal device via a network to perform processing, wherein the program causes the computer to perform the following: a first process of storing content acquired from a first terminal device included in the terminal device into memory; a second process of generating desired content, which includes content from the content stored in memory that matches the acquisition request and regional information of the region included in the content that matches the acquisition request; and a third process of providing the desired content to the second terminal device. The program can also be understood as a program product. [Industrial applicability]

[0140] This embodiment can be used as an information management device, information management method, and program capable of storing information and providing information to an external computer. [Explanation of symbols]

[0141] 11...Client computer, 13...Administrator computer, 14...User computer, 42...Processor, 44...Auxiliary storage device

Claims

1. An information management device having a processor that performs processing and being connected to terminal devices via a network in a manner that enables communication, The aforementioned processor, A first process that stores content acquired from a first terminal device included in the aforementioned terminal device into memory, When a request to acquire content is received from a second terminal device included in the aforementioned terminal device, a second process generates desired content that includes content from the content stored in the memory that matches the acquisition request, and regional information of the region included in the content that matches the acquisition request. A third process for providing the desired content to the second terminal device, An information management device configured to perform the following actions.

2. An information management device according to claim 1, The information management device includes, as the regional information included in the desired content, the regional information of the location of the local government managing the first terminal device.

3. The information management device according to claim 2, The aforementioned processor, A fourth process to determine whether or not a request for content acquisition has been received from the second terminal device used by a user who is interested in the industries included in the aforementioned regional information, When a request to acquire content is received from the second terminal device used by a user interested in the industries included in the aforementioned regional information, a fifth process is performed to notify the first terminal device that a request to acquire content has been received from the second terminal device. An information management device configured to perform the following actions.

4. The information management device according to claim 2, The aforementioned processor, A sixth process for determining the industry operated by the user utilizing the second terminal device, A seventh process provides the second terminal device with auxiliary content, including regional information suitable for the industry operated by the user of the second terminal device, An information management device configured to perform the following actions.

5. The information management device according to claim 2, The aforementioned processor, The eighth process involves a user using the second terminal device determining a region that could be a candidate for relocation, A ninth process provides the second terminal device with supplementary content, including information on areas that users of the second terminal device may consider relocating to, and An information management device configured to perform the following actions.

6. An information management method performed by a computer that is connected to terminal devices via a network in a manner that enables communication with terminal devices, The aforementioned computer, A first process that stores content acquired from a first terminal device included in the aforementioned terminal device into memory, When a request to acquire content is received from a second terminal device included in the aforementioned terminal device, a second process generates desired content that includes content from the content stored in the memory that matches the acquisition request, and regional information of the region included in the content that matches the acquisition request. A third process for providing the desired content to the second terminal device, An information management method configured to perform the following actions.

7. A non-temporary program that causes a computer connected to a terminal device via a network to perform processing, To the aforementioned computer, A first process that stores content acquired from a first terminal device included in the aforementioned terminal device into memory, When a request to acquire content is received from a second terminal device included in the aforementioned terminal device, a second process generates desired content that includes content from the content stored in the memory that matches the acquisition request, and regional information of the region included in the content that matches the acquisition request. A third process for providing the desired content to the second terminal device, A program configured to execute [something].

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