Program and information processing system

Abstract

To further appropriately display a user object in a virtual space image.SOLUTION: A program 151 is executed by a computer. The program 151 causes the computer to function as means for: generating a virtual space 501; disposing a virtual camera 503 and a user object 502 in a virtual space 501; and generating, based on the virtual camera 503, a virtual space image which is an image of the virtual space 501, Further, the program 151 causes the computer, when functioning as the means for generating the virtual space image, to switch between making the user object 502 transparent and making the user object 502 opaque according to directions of the virtual camera 503.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 9

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a program and an information processing system. [Background technology]

[0002] 2. Description of the Related Art There is known a technique for moving a user object in a virtual space based on an operational input from a user, and generating a virtual space image based on a virtual camera that moves in accordance with the movement of the user object.

[0003] Patent Document 1 discloses a game program that updates the transparency of an obstacle so that the transparency of the obstacle gradually increases when the distance between the virtual camera and the obstacle is within a predetermined distance in order to prevent the user object from being hidden by the obstacle in a virtual space. Patent Document 2 discloses an image rendering device that fades in an enemy character that battles the user object in a virtual space, and fades out when the enemy character's remaining damage value in the battle becomes zero and the enemy character becomes unable to act. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] JP 2008-43589 A [Patent Document 2] JP 2005-149315 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] Incidentally, when a user object can be switched from transparent to opaque or from opaque to transparent in a virtual space image, it is desirable that the switching of the display of the user object be performed at a timing that causes minimal discomfort to the user.

[0006] An object of the present disclosure is to more appropriately display user objects in virtual space images. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] According to one embodiment shown in the present disclosure, A program executed by a computer, The program causes the computer to A means for generating a virtual space; means for placing a virtual camera and a user object in the virtual space; a means for generating a virtual space image, which is an image of the virtual space, based on the virtual camera; As a means for generating the virtual space image, A program is provided that switches between making the user object transparent and making the user object opaque depending on an orientation of the virtual camera.

[0008] According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, A program executed by a computer, The program causes the computer to A means for generating a virtual space; means for placing a virtual camera and a user object in the virtual space; a means for generating a virtual space image, which is an image of the virtual space, based on the virtual camera; a means for moving the user object within the virtual space based on a movement operation for moving the user object; As a means for generating the virtual space image, A program is provided that switches between making the user object transparent and making the user object opaque depending on the position of the user object.

[0009] According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, An information processing system including one or more information processing devices, A process of generating a virtual space; placing a virtual camera and a user object in the virtual space; A process of generating a virtual space image, which is an image of the virtual space, based on the virtual camera; In the process of generating the virtual space image, switching between making the user object transparent and making the user object opaque depending on the orientation of the virtual camera; An information processing system is provided.

[0010] According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, An information processing system including one or more information processing devices, A process of generating a virtual space; placing a virtual camera and a user object in the virtual space; A process of generating a virtual space image, which is an image of the virtual space, based on the virtual camera; a process of moving the user object within the virtual space based on a movement operation for moving the user object; In the process of generating the virtual space image, switching between making the user object transparent and making the user object opaque depending on a position of the user object; An information processing system is provided. Effect of the Invention

[0011] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a user object can be more appropriately displayed in a virtual space image. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0012] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a configuration of a system according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of the user terminal shown in FIG. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a functional configuration of the server illustrated in FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 shows an example of a virtual space image displayed on the user terminal shown in FIG. 1 by executing a program according to the comparative example. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process related to providing a virtual space according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a virtual space according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a display screen according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a display screen according to the first modification of the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a display screen according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing an example of an operation flow of a program according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a display screen according to the third embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a display screen according to the third embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing an example of an operation flow of a program according to the third embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a display screen according to the third embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing an example of an operation flow of a program according to the third embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 16] 16 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a display screen according to the third embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing an example of an operation flow of a program according to the third embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0013] Hereinafter, the embodiments of this technical idea will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In the following description, the same parts are given the same reference numerals. Their names and functions are also the same. Therefore, detailed descriptions thereof will not be repeated. In one or more embodiments shown in this disclosure, the elements included in each embodiment can be combined with each other, and the combined result also forms part of the embodiment shown in this disclosure.

[0014] [First embodiment] (System Configuration) Below, as a first embodiment of the present disclosure, an example of a system will be described in which a user object is moved within a virtual space based on a user's operational input, and a virtual space image is provided to the user based on a virtual camera that moves in accordance with the movement of the user object.

[0015] The virtual space may be common to a plurality of users, or may be different for each of the plurality of users. That is, a plurality of user objects may exist in one virtual space, or one user object may exist in one virtual space. The virtual space may be generated using XR technology such as VR (Virtual Reality), AR (Augmented Reality), MR (Mixed Reality), and SR (Substitutional Reality).

[0016] Fig. 1 is a diagram showing a configuration example of a system (information processing system) 1 according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in Fig. 1, the system 1 includes user terminals 10A, 10B, and 10C used by multiple users, respectively, and a server 20, and these devices are connected to each other via a network 30 so as to be able to communicate with each other.

[0017] The user terminal 10A and the user terminal 10B connect to the network 30 by communicating with a wireless base station 31. The user terminal 10C connects to the network 30 by communicating with a wireless router 32 installed in a facility such as a house. Hereinafter, the user terminals such as the user terminals 10A, 10B, and 10C are collectively referred to as "user terminal 10." Note that the user terminal 10 may be configured to connect to the network 30 by wired communication.

[0018] The user terminal 10 is a computer (information processing device) used by a user. The user terminal 10 may be a portable information terminal, or may be a stationary information terminal such as a PC (Personal Computer) or a game console. The user terminal 10 may or may not have a touch screen. The user terminal 10 may be a head-mounted device (HMD) including AR goggles and AR glasses, or may be a contact-type device that can be worn on the eyes like contact lenses. In the following, the user terminal 10 is described as a portable terminal with a touch screen, specifically, a smartphone, a phablet, a tablet, or the like.

[0019] The user terminal 10 executes, for example, an application program installed via a platform that distributes apps and the like. Note that, instead of executing an application program, the user terminal 10 may execute software for browsing websites, i.e., a program acquired via a web browser.

[0020] The user terminal 10 is capable of generating a virtual space image and outputting the virtual space image to a display unit by executing a program such as an application program. When generating the virtual space image, the user terminal 10 can transmit and receive various data to and from the server 20 as necessary.

[0021] The server 20 appropriately transmits data necessary for generating a virtual space image to the user terminal 10. The server 20 manages various data related to the user. For example, the server 20 receives information regarding a user's operation input from the user terminal 10, and executes processing according to the received information.

[0022] The server 20 includes, as its hardware configuration, a communication IF (Interface) 22, an input / output IF 23, a memory 25, a storage 26, and a processor 29, which are connected to each other via a communication bus.

[0023] The communication IF 22 is compatible with various communication standards such as LAN (Local Area Network) standards, and functions as an interface for transmitting and receiving data to and from an external communication device such as the user terminal 10.

[0024] The input / output IF 23 functions as an interface for accepting input of information to the server 20 and outputting information to the outside of the server 20. The input / output IF 23 includes an input accepting unit that accepts connection of an information input device such as a mouse and a keyboard, and an output unit that accepts connection of an information output device such as a display for displaying images, etc.

[0025] The memory 25 is a storage device for storing data and the like used for processing in the server 20. For example, the memory 25 provides the processor 29 with a working area for temporary use when the processor 29 performs processing. The memory 25 is configured to include a storage device such as a ROM (Read Only Memory) or a RAM (Random Access Memory).

[0026] The storage 26 is a storage device for storing various programs and data to be read and executed by the processor 29. The storage 26 includes a storage device such as an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) or a flash memory.

[0027] The processor 29 controls the operation of the server 20 by reading and executing programs stored in the storage 26. The processor 29 includes, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit), an MPU (Micro Processing Unit), or a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit).

[0028] (User terminal configuration) Fig. 2 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of the user terminal 10 shown in Fig. 1. As shown in Fig. 2, the user terminal 10 includes an antenna 110, a wireless communication IF 120, a touch screen 130, an input / output IF 140, a storage unit 150, a voice processing unit 160, a microphone 170, a speaker 180, and a control unit 190.

[0029] The antenna 110 radiates the signal emitted by the user terminal 10 into space as a radio wave. The antenna 110 also receives the radio wave from space and provides the received signal to the wireless communication IF 120.

[0030] The wireless communication IF 120 performs modulation and demodulation processing for transmitting and receiving signals via the antenna 110 etc. so that the user terminal 10 can communicate with other communication devices. The wireless communication IF 120 is a communication module for wireless communication including a tuner, a high-frequency circuit, etc., performs modulation and demodulation and frequency conversion of wireless signals transmitted and received by the user terminal 10, and provides the received signals to the control unit 190.

[0031] The touch screen 130 accepts input from the user and outputs information for the user to the display 132. The touch screen 130 includes a touch panel 131 for accepting an input operation from the user, and a display 132 for displaying a menu screen, a virtual space image, and the like on the screen. The touch panel 131 can detect the approach of a user's finger or the like by using, for example, a capacitive touch panel. The display 132 is realized by, for example, an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), an organic EL (Electroluminescence), or other display device.

[0032] The input / output IF 140 functions as an interface for accepting input of information to the user terminal 10 and for outputting information to the outside of the user terminal 10.

[0033] The storage unit 150 is configured with a flash memory, a RAM, etc. The storage unit 150 can store various data that the user terminal 10 receives from the server 20. The storage unit 150 stores a program 151 that can provide a virtual space image to a user, virtual space information 152, and user information 153.

[0034] The virtual space information 152 includes, for example, information for generating a virtual space. The virtual space information 152 also includes, for example, information for generating various virtual objects, such as a virtual camera and a user object, to be placed in the virtual space. The virtual space information 152 also includes, for example, placement information for placing various virtual objects in the virtual space. The user information 153 includes, for example, a terminal ID (Identification) for identifying the user terminal 10, user ID information for identifying the user, and the like.

[0035] The audio processing unit 160 modulates and demodulates an audio signal. The audio processing unit 160 modulates a signal provided from the microphone 170 and provides the modulated signal to the control unit 190. The audio processing unit 160 also provides the audio signal to the speaker 180. The audio processing unit 160 is realized, for example, by a processor for audio processing. The microphone 170 functions as an audio input unit for receiving an input of an audio signal and outputting it to the control unit 190. The speaker 180 functions as an audio output unit for outputting the audio signal to the outside of the user terminal 10.

[0036] The control unit 190 controls the operation of the user terminal 10 by reading and executing programs stored in the storage unit 150. The control unit 190 is realized by a processor such as an application processor, for example.

[0037] The control unit 190 loads and executes the program 151 to thereby perform the functions of an input operation receiving unit 191, a transmission / reception unit 192, a space generation unit 193, a placement unit 194, a movement control unit 195, and an image generation unit 196. In a certain aspect, the control unit 190 generates a virtual space image while transmitting and receiving various information to and from the server 20.

[0038] The input operation receiving unit 191 receives an input operation from a user based on an output from the touch screen 130. Specifically, the input operation receiving unit 191 detects that a user's finger or the like has approached the touch panel 131 as coordinates of a coordinate system consisting of the horizontal and vertical axes of the surface that constitutes the touch screen 130.

[0039] The input operation reception unit 191 determines a user's operation on the touch screen 130. Specifically, the input operation reception unit 191 determines user's operations such as so-called "approach operation," "release operation," "tap operation," "double tap operation," "long press operation (long touch operation)," "drag operation (swipe operation)," "move operation," and "flick operation." The user's operations determined by the input operation reception unit 191 are not limited to those described above. For example, when the touch panel 131 has a mechanism capable of detecting the magnitude of pressure applied by the user to the touch panel 131, the input operation reception unit 191 determines the magnitude of the pressure applied by the user.

[0040] The transmission / reception unit 192 receives various information from the server 20 and transmits various information to the server 20. The transmission / reception unit 192 receives, for example, at least a part of the virtual space information 252 from the server 20. As an example, the transmission / reception unit 192 receives other user object information related to other user objects operated by other users from the server 20. The transmission / reception unit 192 transmits, for example, information related to the movement of the user object and other actions to the server 20.

[0041] The space generation unit 193 generates a virtual space by referring to the virtual space information 152. The space generation unit 193 also generates virtual objects such as a virtual camera and a user object to be placed in the virtual space. The virtual objects generated by the space generation unit 193 may include other user objects operated by other users, screen objects for displaying videos, and the like.

[0042] The placement unit 194 places various virtual objects such as a virtual camera and a user object in the virtual space by referring to the placement information included in the virtual space information 152. For example, the placement unit 194 places other user objects in the virtual space based on other user object information. In addition, the placement unit 194 moves other user objects and other virtual objects based on information transmitted from the server 20, etc.

[0043] The movement control unit 195 moves the user object in the virtual space based on a movement operation for moving the user object (hereinafter, also simply referred to as a "moving operation"). For example, the movement control unit 195 interprets the user's instruction based on the coordinates of the input position of the input operation accepted by the input operation accepting unit 191 and the type of operation, and moves the user object based on the interpretation.

[0044] The image generation unit 196 generates a virtual space image, which is an image captured by the virtual camera of the virtual space, based on the virtual camera. The virtual space image generated by the image generation unit 196 is output to the touch screen 130 and displayed on the display 132.

[0045] When a movement operation is not performed, i.e., when the user object is in a stationary state, the image generating unit 196 makes the user object transparent when generating the virtual space image. On the other hand, when a movement operation is performed, i.e., when the user object is in a moving state, the image generating unit 196 makes the user object opaque when generating the virtual space image.

[0046] Furthermore, when changing a user object in a virtual space image from opaque to transparent, it is preferable that the image generating unit 196 gradually increases the transparency of the user object. That is, when a user object transitions from a moving state to a stationary state, the image generating unit 196 may perform a fade-out process so that the user object gradually changes from opaque to transparent. The period during which the fade-out process is performed is, for example, about 0.1 to 2 seconds.

[0047] Furthermore, when changing a user object in a virtual space image from transparent to opaque, it is preferable that the image generating unit 196 gradually decreases the transparency of the user object. That is, when a user object transitions from a stationary state to a moving state, the image generating unit 196 may perform a fade-in process so that the user object gradually changes from transparent to opaque. The period during which the fade-in process is performed is, for example, about 0.1 to 2 seconds.

[0048] In addition, the image generating unit 196 preferably generates a virtual space image so that the user object performs an accompanying action that is an action associated with the movement during a first period after the start of the movement operation. In addition, the image generating unit 196 preferably generates a virtual space image so that the user object performs an accompanying action that is an action associated with the stop during a second period after the end of the movement operation. The first period and the second period may be the same length or may be different lengths. In addition, the image generating unit 196 may change the length of at least one of the first period and the second period depending on the type of accompanying action to be performed by the user object.

[0049] The accompanying action includes a change in the posture of the user object. For example, the preparatory action, which is an accompanying action accompanying the movement of the user object, includes actions that a human normally performs when starting to move, such as tilting the upper body of the user object, bending the arms, and bending the knees before jumping. Also, for example, the aftertaste action, which is an accompanying action accompanying the stopping of the user object, includes actions that a human normally performs when stopping to move, such as raising the tilted upper body, stretching the arms, and straightening the knees.

[0050] In addition, when the user object performs a motion of tilting the upper half of the body as a preparatory motion and a motion of raising the upper half of the body as a lingering motion, the change in the motion of the user object is easy to understand, and the difference in motion between the stopped state and the moving state can be more effectively complemented. For this reason, it is preferable that the motion of tilting the upper half of the body is performed as the preparatory motion and the motion of raising the upper half of the body is executed as the lingering motion.

[0051] Furthermore, it is preferable that the image generating unit 196 maintains a constant distance between the virtual camera and the user object before and after the start of the movement operation and before and after the end of the movement operation. Note that "constant" includes a small amount of error.

[0052] (Server configuration) Fig. 3 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of server 20 shown in Fig. 1. The detailed configuration of server 20 will be described with reference to Fig. 3. Server 20 operates according to program 251 to fulfill the functions of communication unit 220, storage unit 250, and control unit 290.

[0053] The communication unit 220 functions as an interface for the server 20 to communicate with external communication devices such as the user terminal 10 via the network 30 .

[0054] The storage unit 250 stores various programs and data for operating the server 20. In one aspect, the storage unit 250 stores a program 251, virtual space information 252, and user information 253.

[0055] The program 251 is a program for providing a virtual space image to a user via the user terminal 10. For example, the program 251 refers to virtual space information 252, user information 253, and the like, and executes various processes on the server 20 side for providing a virtual space image to the user.

[0056] The virtual space information 252 includes, for example, information for generating a virtual space and information for generating various virtual objects to be placed in the virtual space. At least a part of the virtual space information 252 is information that is the source of the virtual space information 152. The virtual space information 252 may include information on the position and behavior of each user object in the virtual space. The virtual space information 252 may also include information on moving images.

[0057] The user information 253 is information related to the user of each user terminal 10. For example, the user information 253 includes information for identifying the user terminal 10 or the user of the user terminal 10, and other information.

[0058] The control unit 290 executes the program 251 stored in the storage unit 250 to thereby fulfill the functions of a transmission / reception unit 291, a server processing unit 292, a data management unit 293, and a clock unit 294.

[0059] The transmission / reception unit 291 receives various information from the user terminal 10 and transmits various information to the user terminal 10. The user terminal 10 and the server 20 transmit and receive, for example, information related to the generation of the virtual space and virtual objects, information related to the movement and other actions of the user object, and information related to the playback of the video.

[0060] The server processing unit 292 performs various processes required in the server 20 to provide a virtual space to a user via the user terminal 10. The server processing unit 292 instructs the transmitting / receiving unit 291 to transmit various data in response to various requests from the user terminal 10 received by the transmitting / receiving unit 291. In addition, the server processing unit 292 instructs the data management unit 293 to update various data based on various calculation results by the server processing unit 292.

[0061] The data management unit 293 performs processing to add, delete, or update various data stored in the storage unit 250 based on instructions from the server processing unit 292. The timing unit 294 performs processing to measure time. In addition, the timing unit 294 executes processing to synchronize various types of time-related information in multiple user terminals 10, for example.

[0062] (Comparative Example) Next, a virtual space image generated by executing a program according to a comparative example will be described with reference to Fig. 4. Fig. 4 shows an example of a virtual space image displayed on the display 132 of the user terminal 10 by executing a program according to the comparative example.

[0063] It is assumed that the control unit 190 in the user terminal 10 generates a virtual space image by executing a program according to the comparative example. At this time, the control unit 190 makes the user object 802 opaque regardless of the presence or absence of a movement operation by the user. That is, the control unit 190 makes the user object 802 opaque in the virtual space image not only when the user object 802 is in a moving state, but also when the user object 802 is in a stationary state.

[0064] Here, it is assumed that a screen object 807, which is an example of a virtual object, is placed in the virtual space. When a user object 802 enters a trigger area set in the vicinity of the screen object 807, the control unit 190 starts playing a video on the screen object 807. Then, since the user object 802 is in a stopped state within the trigger area, the playing of the video on the screen object 807 continues.

[0065] The video may be played back in a streaming format in which video information is acquired from the server 20 each time, or in a download format in which video information is downloaded in advance to the storage unit 150. It is preferable that the video be played back with audio output.

[0066] In this way, when a video is played on the screen object 807, if the user object 802 is opaque as described above, a situation may occur in which the user cannot see part of the video because part of the screen object 807 is hidden by the user object 802. Therefore, the program according to the present disclosure solves such a problem by the following operation.

[0067] (Example of program operation) (a) Flow of operations Next, an operation example of the program according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to Fig. 5 to Fig. 7. Each process described below is realized by the control unit 190 in the user terminal 10 executing the program 151, and the control unit 290 in the server 20 executing the program 251, respectively.

[0068] The order of the processes constituting each flowchart described in this specification may be random and may be executed in parallel as long as no contradiction or inconsistency occurs in the process contents. Also, some of the processes constituting each flowchart described in this specification may be omitted.

[0069] 5 is a flowchart showing an example of a process related to providing a virtual space according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. First, in step S110, the control unit 190 generates a virtual space by referring to the virtual space information 152. Similarly, the control unit 190 generates virtual objects including a virtual camera and a user object. In generating the virtual space and the virtual objects, the control unit 190 may receive various information such as the virtual space information 252 from the server 20 as necessary.

[0070] In step S120, the control unit 190 places a virtual object in the virtual space with reference to the placement information included in the virtual space information 152. At this time, the control unit 190 places a virtual camera at a position a predetermined distance from the user object.

[0071] In step S130, the control unit 190 generates a virtual space image. At this time, the control unit 190 makes the user object transparent. Then, the control unit 190 displays the generated virtual space image on the display 132.

[0072] The virtual space image is an image based on a virtual camera, and is an image captured in the virtual space by the virtual camera. The line of sight direction of the virtual camera can be changed based on an input operation by a user to change the orientation of the virtual camera. For example, the virtual camera moves to a position according to the input operation by the user while maintaining a distance from the user object.

[0073] If the control unit 190 does not detect a movement operation of the user object ("NO" in step S140), the control unit 190 continues to display the user object transparently. Then, the control unit 190 ends the series of processes in response to receiving an input operation for ending the program 151, etc.

[0074] On the other hand, when the control unit 190 detects a movement operation of the user object ("YES" in step S140), the control unit 190 starts a fade-in process of gradually making the user object opaque in step S150. When the control unit 190 detects a movement operation by the user, the control unit 190 transmits information for identifying the position of the user object after the movement to the server 20 as necessary.

[0075] In step S160, the control unit 190 causes the user object to execute a preparatory action associated with the movement.

[0076] In step S170, the control unit 190 performs a process of moving the user object. The control unit 190 also performs a process of moving the virtual camera at the same moving speed as the user object so as to be linked with the movement of the user object. As a result, the user object and the virtual camera move while maintaining the relative positional relationship.

[0077] When the control unit 190 does not detect the end of the moving operation of the user object ("NO" in step S180), the process returns to step S170 and continues the process of moving the user object and the virtual camera.

[0078] On the other hand, when the control unit 190 detects the end of the moving operation of the user object ("YES" in step S180), the control unit 190 performs a process of stopping the movement of the user object and the virtual camera in step S190.

[0079] In step S200, the control unit 190 starts a fade-out process that gradually makes the user object transparent.

[0080] In step S210, the control unit 190 causes the user object to execute an afterglow action associated with the stop. Then, the control unit 190 ends the series of processes in response to, for example, receiving an input operation for ending the program 151.

[0081] (b) Description of virtual space and virtual space images Hereinafter, the virtual space and the virtual space image generated in the series of processes shown in Fig. 5 will be described with reference to Fig. 6 and Fig. 7. Fig. 6 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a virtual space 501 according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. In Fig. 6, a user object 502, a virtual camera 503, a pillar object 504, and another user object 506 are arranged in the virtual space 501.

[0082] The user object 502 is an object that can be operated by the user, for example, an avatar of the user. The other user object 506 is an object that can be operated by another user, for example, an avatar of the other user. The virtual camera 503 is a virtual object that captures an image of the virtual space 501. The pillar object 504 is a virtual object that is fixedly placed in the virtual space 501.

[0083] (b-1) Virtual space image when transitioning from a stationary state to a moving state Fig. 7 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a display screen according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. Specifically, Fig. 7(a) shows a display screen when the user object 502 is in a stopped state. Fig. 7(b) shows a display screen when the user object 502 is performing an associated action. Fig. 7(c) shows a display screen when the user object 502 is in a moving state.

[0084] 7A shows a virtual space image displayed in a state before the user object 502 is moved (step S130 shown in FIG. 5). In the virtual space image, the user object 502, which is in a stationary state, is transparent and not displayed. Note that if the user object 502 has any possessions, the possessions are not displayed either.

[0085] Regardless of whether the other user's object 506 is moving or not, it is displayed on the display 132 of the user who is operating the user object 502. For example, in (a) of FIG. 7, the other user's object 506 is standing still and not moving, but is displayed on the display 132.

[0086] It should be noted that the other user's object 506 is transparent and not displayed on the display of the other user who is manipulating the other user's object 506. On the other hand, the user's object 502 is opaque and displayed on the display of the other user.

[0087] Also, assume that the other user performs an operation to move or perform another action on the other user's object 506. In this case, information for specifying the position of the other user's object 506 after the movement or other action is transmitted to the user terminal 10 of the user of the user object 502 via the server 20. The control unit 190 controls the position and action of the other user's object 506 in the virtual space 501 based on the information.

[0088] 7(a), a manipulator 601 is indicated by a dashed line. The manipulator 601 is a virtual controller displayed for receiving input of a movement operation for moving the user object 502. For example, the user can drag a circular portion in the center of the manipulator 601 to move the user object 502 in the direction of the drag.

[0089] The operator 601 is an example, and other shapes and input modes may be adopted. From the viewpoint of improving the visibility of the virtual space 501, it is preferable that the operator 601 is in a completely transparent state or in a highly transparent state while being visible until it receives a movement operation from the user.

[0090] FIG. 7B shows a virtual space image in a state in which a moving operation of the user object 502 is started, and a fade-in process (step S150 shown in FIG. 5) and a preparatory operation (step S160 shown in FIG. 5) of the user object 502 are being performed. In the virtual space image, the user object 502 is displayed semi-transparently. In FIG. 7B, the user object 502 is shown by a dashed line to indicate that the user object 502 is displayed semi-transparently. For example, when the circular portion is dragged to an area located to the right (the arrow A direction side) of the line segment 1 that divides the operator 601 into two parts, left and right, in a first period after the start of the drag operation, the user object 502 performs a preparatory operation for moving to the right.

[0091] Specifically, the user object 502 turns its body direction to the right and tilts its upper body. The user object 502 may also perform a preparatory motion, such as bending its knees and arms.

[0092] In Fig. 7(b), the circular portion of the control 601 is positioned on the right side to indicate that a rightward movement operation is being performed. In addition, in response to the movement operation being performed, the control 601 is made less transparent than in Fig. 7(a).

[0093] FIG. 7(c) shows a virtual space image after the fade-in process and preparation operation of the user object 502 are completed and in a state where the movement operation of the user object 502 is continuing (step S170 shown in FIG. 5). In the virtual space image, the user object 502 is displayed opaquely. In FIG. 7(c), the user object 502 is shown with a solid line to indicate that the user object 502 is displayed opaquely. In FIG. 7(c), a movement operation to the right has been performed, so the user object 502 is moving to the right.

[0094] Also, in (c) of Fig. 7, similar to (b) of Fig. 7, the circular portion of the control 601 is located on the right side to indicate that a movement operation to the right is being performed. Also, in (c) of Fig. 7, similar to (b) of Fig. 7, in response to the movement operation being performed, the control 601 is made less transparent than in (a) of Fig. 7 in accordance with the movement operation being performed. During the movement operation, the control 601 may be opaque from the viewpoint of facilitating the movement operation by the user, or may be translucent or transparent from the viewpoint of increasing the visibility of the virtual space 501.

[0095] During the transition period from a stopped state to a moving state of the user object 502, the virtual space image shown in Fig. 7(c) is displayed via the virtual space image shown in Fig. 7(a) through the virtual space image shown in Fig. 7(b). Fig. 7 shows only the display screen shown in Fig. 7(b) when the user object 502 is performing the accompanying action, but the control unit 190 generates the virtual space image so that the movement of the user object 502 as the accompanying action changes continuously or stepwise.

[0096] During this transition period, the transparency of the user object 502 is lowered continuously or stepwise by the fade-in process of the user object 502. That is, the fade-in process of the user object 502 and the preparation operation for the movement of the user object 502 are executed in parallel.

[0097] The length of the first period during which the user object 502 performs the preparatory action may be the same as the transition period, or may be shorter than the transition period. For example, when the first period is shorter than the transition period, the preparatory action and movement of the user object 502 start with the start of the fade-in process, and the preparatory action is completed while the fade-in process continues. Also, for example, when the first period is longer than the transition period, the preparatory action and movement of the user object 502 start with the start of the fade-in process, and the preparatory action continues even after the fade-in process is completed.

[0098] (b-2) Virtual space image when transitioning from a moving state to a stationary state During the transition period from a moving state to a stopped state of the user object 502, the virtual space image shown in Figure 7(c) is displayed, followed by the virtual space image shown in Figure 7(b), and then the virtual space image shown in Figure 7(a).

[0099] 7B, the user object 502 performs a lingering motion until it stops during a second period after the movement operation, i.e., after the user ends the drag operation of the circular portion. For example, the user object 502 raises its inclined upper body and stamps its feet.

[0100] During this transition period, the transparency of the user object 502 is increased continuously or stepwise by the fade-out process of the user object 502. That is, the fade-out process of the user object 502 and the afterglow operation for stopping the user object 502 are executed in parallel.

[0101] The length of the second period during which the user object 502 performs the lingering action may be the same as or shorter than the transition period. For example, if the second period is shorter than the transition period, the lingering action of the user object 502 starts when the fade-out process starts, and the lingering action is completed while the fade-out process continues.

[0102] (b-3) Executing a gesture of a user object in a stopped state When the user performs an operation such as pressing an icon included in the display screen, the user object 502 may execute a gesture according to the content of the operation. The gesture includes a clapping action, a waving action, and the like.

[0103] When the control unit 190 executes a gesture while the user object 502 is in a stopped state, i.e., in a hidden state, the control unit 190 displays the user object 502. Then, when the gesture of the user object 502 ends, the control unit 190 makes the user object 502 invisible again.

[0104] With this configuration, the types of actions that the user object 502 can execute are increased, and further, the user operating the user object 502 can check the actions of the user object 502 while the user object 502 is stopped.

[0105] (b-4) Control of movement according to movement speed The moving speed of the user object 502 may change depending on the length over which the circular part of the operator 601 is dragged. Specifically, assuming that the center position of the circular part of the operator 601 when no moving operation is being performed is the initial position, if the distance between the center position of the dragged circular part and the initial position is greater than zero and less than a predetermined value, the user object 502 moves by walking. Also, if the distance between the center position of the dragged circular part and the initial position is equal to or greater than a predetermined value, the user object 502 moves by running. Hereinafter, the state in which the user object 502 is walking will be referred to as a walking state, and the state in which the user object 502 is running will be referred to as a running state.

[0106] When the user object 502 transitions from a walking state to a running state, the control unit 190 may execute an associated action such as increasing the inclination of the upper body of the user object 502. When the user object 502 transitions from a running state to a walking state, the control unit 190 may execute an associated action such as decreasing the inclination of the upper body of the user object 502.

[0107] In such a case, as described below, if the orientation of the user object 502 and the line of sight of the virtual camera 503 are aligned, the faster the moving speed of the user object 502, the greater the inclination of the upper body of the user object 502, and the further away the head of the user object 502 is from the virtual camera 503. For this reason, the user viewing the image captured by the virtual camera 503 feels that the distance to the user object 502 is greater as the moving speed of the user object 502 increases.

[0108] On the other hand, the slower the moving speed of the user object 502, the less the inclination of the upper body of the user object 502 becomes, and the closer the head of the user object 502 becomes to the virtual camera 503. For this reason, the user viewing the image captured by the virtual camera 503 feels that the slower the moving speed of the user object 502 becomes, the closer the distance to the user object 502 becomes.

[0109] In this embodiment, a configuration is adopted in which the inclination of the upper body of the user object 502 increases as the moving speed of the user object 502 increases, but the present invention is not limited to such a configuration. For example, a configuration may be adopted in which the inclination of the upper body of the user object 502 is increased for a predetermined time from the timing when the user object 502 starts running, and the inclination of the upper body is gradually decreased after the predetermined time has elapsed. Even in such a case, it is desirable that the inclination of the upper body in the running state after the above-mentioned predetermined time has elapsed is greater than the inclination of the upper body in the walking state.

[0110] (Variation 1) Fig. 8 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a display screen according to the first modification of the first embodiment of the present disclosure. Specifically, Fig. 8(a) shows a display screen when the user object 502 is in a moving state. Fig. 8(b) shows a display screen for explaining the orientation of the user object 502 when the user object 502 stops moving.

[0111] When generating a virtual space image, the image generation unit 196 may control the user object 502 so that the orientation of the user object 502 matches the line of sight direction of the virtual camera 503 when the user object 502 transitions from a moving state to a stopped state.

[0112] Specifically, assume that the user object 502 is moving to the right as shown in (a) of Fig. 8. When the moving operation is completed in such a moving state, the image generating unit 196 changes the orientation of the user object 502 so that the virtual camera 503 is positioned behind the user object 502 as shown in (b) of Fig. 8.

[0113] The image generation unit 196 changes the orientation of the user object 502 so that the virtual camera 503 is located behind the user object 502 not only when a movement operation of the user object 502 to the right is completed, but also when a movement operation in another direction, such as the direction in which the virtual camera 503 is located, is completed.

[0114] Then, after aligning the orientation of the user object 502 with the line of sight of the virtual camera 503, the image generating unit 196 performs, for example, the above-mentioned fade-out process to make the user object 502 transparent. Note that the image generating unit 196 may perform the change in the orientation of the user object 502 and the fade-out process of the user object 502 in parallel.

[0115] In addition, when the image generation unit 196 executes the lingering action shown in step S210 in FIG. 5 during the transition period from the moving state to the stopped state of the user object 502, for example, the image generation unit 196 performs the process of changing the orientation of the user object 502 and the process of executing the lingering action in parallel.

[0116] As described above, when the user object 502 transitions from a moving state to a stopped state, by aligning the orientation of the user object 502 with the line of sight direction of the virtual camera 503, it is possible to prevent the user object 502 from feeling unnatural, such as communicating with other user objects that are not supposed to be visible.

[0117] However, the user operating the user object 502 cannot check the facial expression of the user object 502. For this reason, a configuration may be adopted in which the orientation of the user object 502 and the line of sight of the virtual camera 503 are not aligned when the user object 502 transitions from a moving state to a stopped state.

[0118] Also, for example, when the user object 502 transitions from a moving state to a stopped state, a configuration may be adopted in which the orientation of the user object 502 is aligned with the line of sight direction of the virtual camera 503, and an image of the user object 502 viewed from the front, which includes a partial or entire image including the face of the user object 502, is displayed on the display screen.

[0119] (Variation 2) The image generation unit 196 may change the distance between the virtual camera 503 and the user object 502 before and after the start of the movement operation and before and after the end of the movement operation. For example, the image generation unit 196 controls the user object 502 so as to move the user object 502 away from the virtual camera 503 at the start of the movement of the user object 502 shown in step S170 of FIG.

[0120] Specifically, the distance between the user object 502 and the virtual camera 503 when the user object 502 stops is set to the first distance. When the movement operation of the user object 502 starts, the image generation unit 196 moves the user object 502 so that the distance between the user object 502 and the virtual camera 503 becomes a second distance that is longer than the first distance. Then, the image generation unit 196 moves the user object 502 and the virtual camera 503 at the same movement speed so that the distance is maintained as the second distance.

[0121] 5, the image generating unit 196 controls the user object 502 so as to move the user object 502 closer to the virtual camera 503. Specifically, when the movement operation of the user object 502 ends, the image generating unit 196 moves the user object 502 so that the distance between the user object 502 and the virtual camera 503 is changed from the second distance to the first distance.

[0122] With this configuration, when the user object 502 transitions from a moving state to a stationary state, the user can more easily get the sensation that the user object 502 has been taken into the user, since the user object 502 approaches the user and then disappears from the display screen. Also, when the user object 502 transitions from a stationary state to a moving state, the user can more easily get the sensation that the user object 502 is coming out of the user, since the user object 502 moves away from the user.

[0123] It should be noted that when changing the distance between the virtual camera 503 and the user object 502 , the image generating unit 196 may move the virtual camera 503 instead of moving the user object 502 .

[0124] In addition, instead of or in addition to changing the distance between the virtual camera 503 and the user object 502 before and after the start of the movement operation and before and after the end of the movement operation, a configuration may be adopted in which the size of the user object 502 is changed.

[0125] For example, when the user object 502 transitions from a moving state to a stopped state, the image generating unit 196 may gradually increase the size of the user object 502 from the size of the user object 502 in the moving state (hereinafter also simply referred to as "size during movement") while performing a fade-out process of the user object 502. Also, when the user object 502 transitions from a stopped state to a moving state, the image generating unit 196 may gradually decrease the size of the user object 502 from a state larger than the size during movement to the size during movement while performing a fade-in process of the user object 502.

[0126] The contents related to the first embodiment of the present disclosure are listed as follows.

[0127] (Item 1-1) A program executed by a computer having a processor and a memory, The program causes the processor to: A step of generating a virtual space; placing a virtual camera and a user object in the virtual space; generating a virtual space image based on the virtual camera, the virtual space image being an image captured by the virtual camera of the virtual space; moving the user object in the virtual space based on a movement operation for moving the user object; In the step of generating a virtual space image, If the move operation is not performed, the user object is made transparent; making the user object opaque when the move operation is performed; program. As a result, when the user object is stopped, the user object is not displayed, which prevents other virtual objects that the user is trying to see, such as a screen object, from being hidden by the user object. Also, when the user object moves, the user object is displayed, which prevents motion sickness caused by the movement of the user object and allows the user to easily grasp the direction of movement of the user object in the virtual space. Therefore, it is possible to suppress a decrease in visibility while maintaining the operability of movement in the virtual space.

[0128] (Item 1-2) In the step of generating a virtual space image, When changing the user object from opaque to transparent, the transparency of the user object is gradually increased; When changing the user object from transparent to opaque, gradually decreasing the transparency of the user object; The program described in item 1-1. This prevents the user from feeling uncomfortable when the user object is switched between visible and invisible. Also, when the user object stops moving, it gradually becomes transparent, giving the user the sensation that the user object has been taken into the user, whereas when the user object starts moving, it gradually becomes opaque, giving the user the sensation that the user object is coming out from within the user, thereby enhancing the sense of immersion in the virtual space.

[0129] (Item 1-3) The program further causes the processor to executing a step of making the user object perform an accompanying action that is an action accompanying the movement or stop of the user object, during at least one of a first period after the start of the moving operation and a second period after the end of the moving operation; The accompanying action includes at least one of a preparatory action until the user object transitions from a stopped state to a moving state, and an aftertaste action until the user object transitions from a moving state to a stopped state. The program according to item 1-1 or 1-2. This allows the user object to perform more natural actions.

[0130] (Items 1-4) The accompanying action includes changing the posture of the user object. The program described in items 1-3. In this way, by having the user object execute an accompanying action that is a movement that has a large change and is easy to understand, the difference in action between the stationary state and the moving state can be more effectively compensated for.

[0131] (Items 1-5) maintaining a constant distance between the virtual camera and the user object before and after the start of the movement operation and before and after the end of the movement operation; The program according to any one of items 1-1 to 1-4. This will further prevent motion sickness.

[0132] (Items 1-6) When the user object transitions from a stationary state to a moving state, the user object is controlled to move away from the virtual camera; When the user object transitions from a moving state to a stopped state, the user object is controlled so as to approach the virtual camera. The program according to any one of items 1-1 to 1-4. As a result, when the user object transitions from a moving state to a stationary state, the user can easily get the sense that the user object has been taken into the user, since the user object approaches the user and then disappears from the display screen. Also, when the user object transitions from a stationary state to a moving state, the user can easily get the sense that the user object is coming out of the user, since the user object is moving away from the user.

[0133] (Items 1-7) When the user object transitions from a moving state to a stopped state, the user object is controlled so as to align a direction of the user object with a line of sight direction of the virtual camera. The program according to any one of items 1-1 to 1-6. This prevents a misalignment between the area captured by the virtual camera, i.e., the area displayed to the user, and the area the user object can see, so that the user can feel the same as the user object. This also prevents the user object from feeling unnatural when communicating with other user objects that should not be visible to the user object. Furthermore, by checking the direction in which the user object is facing, other users can understand the direction in which the user of the user object can see the user.

[0134] (Items 1-8) 1. A method implemented by a computer having a processor and a memory, comprising: The method further comprises: A step of generating a virtual space; placing a virtual camera and a user object in the virtual space; generating a virtual space image based on the virtual camera, the virtual space image being an image captured by the virtual camera of the virtual space; moving the user object in the virtual space based on a movement operation for moving the user object; In the step of generating a virtual space image, If the move operation is not performed, the user object is made transparent; making the user object opaque when the move operation is performed; method. As a result, when the user object is stopped, the user object is not displayed, which prevents other virtual objects that the user is trying to see, such as a screen object, from being hidden by the user object. Also, when the user object moves, the user object is displayed, which prevents motion sickness caused by the movement of the user object and allows the user to easily grasp the direction of movement of the user object in the virtual space. Therefore, it is possible to suppress a decrease in visibility while maintaining the operability of movement in the virtual space.

[0135] (Items 1-9) An information processing device including a processor and a memory, The processor, Generate a virtual space, Placing a virtual camera and a user object in the virtual space; generating a virtual space image based on the virtual camera, the virtual space image being an image captured by the virtual camera of the virtual space; a user object is moved within the virtual space based on a movement operation for moving the user object; In generating the virtual space image, If the move operation is not performed, the user object is made transparent; making the user object opaque when the move operation is performed; Information processing device. As a result, when the user object is stopped, the user object is not displayed, which prevents other virtual objects that the user is trying to see, such as a screen object, from being hidden by the user object. Also, when the user object moves, the user object is displayed, which prevents motion sickness caused by the movement of the user object and allows the user to easily grasp the direction of movement of the user object in the virtual space. Therefore, it is possible to suppress a decrease in visibility while maintaining the operability of movement in the virtual space.

[0136] [Second embodiment] 2 again, in the first embodiment, as described above, the user object 502 is switched between being transparent and being opaque depending on whether or not the user object 502 is moved. That is, in the first embodiment, every time the user object 502 finishes moving, the user object 502 disappears from the virtual space image. In this way, the user object 502 frequently disappears from the virtual space image, which may give the user a sense of incongruity.

[0137] Therefore, in the second embodiment, a configuration is described in which switching is performed in a virtual space image between making a user object 502 transparent and making the user object 502 opaque in a situation where there is a greater need to do so.

[0138] (User terminal configuration) In the user terminal 10 according to the second embodiment, the control unit 190 switches between making the user object 502 transparent and making the user object 502 opaque, depending on the orientation of the virtual camera 503.

[0139] More specifically, the user can operate the orientation of virtual camera 503 by, for example, pressing touch screen 130 of user terminal 10 shown in Fig. 2. When the user operates the orientation of virtual camera 503, touch screen 130 outputs the operation content to control unit 190. For example, assume that the orientation of virtual camera 503 is changed when the user performs a drag operation with two fingers. In this case, touch screen 130 outputs the direction in which the user's fingers moved, etc., to control unit 190 as the user's operation content.

[0140] When input operation receiving unit 191 in control unit 190 receives the operation content output from touch screen 130, it outputs the operation content to arrangement unit 194. When arrangement unit 194 receives the operation content output from input operation receiving unit 191, it changes the orientation of virtual camera 503, i.e., the line of sight direction of virtual camera 503, based on the operation content.

[0141] In addition, when no operation is performed on the orientation of virtual camera 503, placement unit 194 adjusts the orientation of virtual camera 503 so that, for example, user object 502 is positioned at the center of the virtual space image and the line of sight of virtual camera 503 is aligned horizontally.

[0142] When an operation is performed on the orientation of the virtual camera 503 and the elevation angle or depression angle of the virtual camera 503 reaches or exceeds a predetermined value, the image generating unit 196 switches the user object 502 in the virtual space image from transparent to opaque.

[0143] A specific example will be described with reference to Fig. 9. Fig. 9 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a display screen according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 9(a) shows a virtual space image generated when the elevation angle or depression angle of virtual camera 503 is less than a predetermined value. Fig. 9(b) shows a virtual space image generated when the elevation angle of virtual camera 503 is equal to or greater than a predetermined value.

[0144] As shown in (a) of Figure 9, when the user has not performed any operation on the orientation of the virtual camera 503, or when such an operation has been performed but the elevation or depression angle of the virtual camera 503 is less than a predetermined value, the image generation unit 196 makes the user object 502 in the virtual space image opaque.

[0145] 9(a) is displayed on the display 132, the user performs an operation to change the virtual camera 503 to face upward in order to view the view above the user object 502, and the elevation angle of the virtual camera 503 becomes equal to or greater than a predetermined value. In this case, the image generating unit 196 switches the user object 502 in the virtual space image from opaque to transparent, as shown in FIG. 9(b).

[0146] 9(b) is displayed on the display 132, the user again operates the orientation of the virtual camera 503, causing the elevation angle of the virtual camera 503 to fall below a predetermined value. In this case, the image generating unit 196 switches the user object 502 in the virtual space image from transparent to opaque, as shown in FIG. 9(a).

[0147] Also, assume that the user performs an operation to change the virtual camera 503 to face downward in order to see the feet of the user object 502, and the depression angle of the virtual camera 503 becomes equal to or greater than a predetermined value. In this case as well, the image generating unit 196 switches the user object 502 in the virtual space image from opaque to transparent.

[0148] (Example of program operation) Next, a flow of operation of a program according to the second embodiment will be described. Fig. 10 is a flowchart showing an example of a flow of operation of a program according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in Fig. 10, first, the control unit 190 refers to the virtual space information 152 and generates a virtual space 501, a virtual camera 503, and a virtual object (step S510).

[0149] Next, the control unit 190 refers to the placement information included in the virtual space information 152, and places the virtual object and the virtual camera 503 in the virtual space 501 (step S520). The initial position of the virtual camera 503 is, for example, a position that is a predetermined distance away from the viewpoint position of the user object 502 to the rear side of the user object 502.

[0150] Next, the control unit 190 generates a virtual space image in which the user object 502 is made opaque, and displays the generated virtual space image on the display 132 (step S530).

[0151] Next, it is assumed that the user has performed an operation to change the orientation of virtual camera 503, and control unit 190 has received the operation content ("YES" in step S540). In this case, control unit 190 changes the orientation of virtual camera 503 placed in virtual space 501 based on the operation content (step S550).

[0152] Next, control unit 190 checks whether the elevation angle or depression angle of virtual camera 503 is equal to or greater than a predetermined value (step S560). If the elevation angle or depression angle of virtual camera 503 is equal to or greater than the predetermined value ("YES" in step S560), control unit 190 switches user object 502 in the virtual space image from opaque to transparent, and displays the switched virtual space image on display 132 (step S570).

[0153] On the other hand, in step S540, if the control unit 190 has not received an operation to change the orientation of the virtual camera 503 ("NO" in step S540), the control unit 190 does not make the user object 502 transparent, and continues to display the virtual space image in which the user object 502 is opaque.

[0154] Also, if an operation to change the orientation of virtual camera 503 is performed ("YES" in step S540), and both the elevation angle and depression angle of virtual camera 503 after the orientation is changed are less than the predetermined value ("NO" in step S560), control unit 190 does not make user object 502 transparent and continues to display the virtual space image in which user object 502 is opaque.

[0155] Note that the image generation unit 196 is not limited to a configuration that switches between making the user object 502 transparent and making the user object 502 opaque in accordance with the elevation angle or depression angle of the virtual camera 503. For example, the image generation unit 196 may be configured to perform the above switching in accordance with the orientation of the virtual camera 503 in the horizontal direction.

[0156] Furthermore, the image generating unit 196 may be configured to switch the user object 502 in the virtual space image from transparent to opaque when an operation to change the orientation of the virtual camera 503 is performed.

[0157] The contents relating to the second embodiment of the present disclosure are listed as follows. (Item 2-1) A program executed by a computer, The program causes the computer to A means for generating a virtual space; means for placing a virtual camera and a user object in the virtual space; a means for generating a virtual space image, which is an image of the virtual space, based on the virtual camera; As a means for generating the virtual space image, A program that switches between making the user object transparent and making the user object opaque depending on a direction of the virtual camera. In such a program, for example, when a user changes the direction of the virtual camera to view an object such as a signboard or a product in the virtual space, the user object in the virtual space image can be switched from opaque to transparent, thereby preventing the object from being hidden by the user object. In addition, in the above program, for example, when a user changes the orientation of the virtual camera to check the moving direction of a user object, the user object in the virtual space image can be switched from transparent to opaque, making it easier for the user to check the moving direction of the user object. In this way, the program according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure can more appropriately display a user object in a virtual space image.

[0158] (Item 2-2) As a means for generating the virtual space image, making the user object transparent when the elevation angle or depression angle of the virtual camera is equal to or greater than a predetermined value; The program described in item 2-1, which makes the user object opaque when the elevation angle or depression angle of the virtual camera is less than the predetermined value. With this configuration, when the user operates the virtual camera to face upward to view the scenery above the user object, or when the user operates the virtual camera to face downward to view the feet of the user object, the user object in the virtual space image becomes transparent, which makes it possible to prevent the scenery above the user object, the feet of the user object, etc. from being hidden by the user object.

[0159] (Item 2-3) An information processing system including one or more information processing devices, A process of generating a virtual space; placing a virtual camera and a user object in the virtual space; A process of generating a virtual space image, which is an image of the virtual space, based on the virtual camera; In the process of generating the virtual space image, switching between making the user object transparent and making the user object opaque depending on the orientation of the virtual camera; Information processing system. In such an information processing system, for example, when a user changes the orientation of the virtual camera to view an object such as a signboard or a product in the virtual space, the user object in the virtual space image can be switched from opaque to transparent, thereby preventing the object from being hidden by the user object. In addition, in the information processing system, for example, when a user changes the orientation of the virtual camera to check the moving direction of a user object, the user object in the virtual space image can be switched from transparent to opaque, making it easier for the user to check the moving direction of the user object. In this manner, in the information processing system according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure, it is possible to more appropriately display a user object in a virtual space image.

[0160] [Third embodiment] In the third embodiment, similarly to the second embodiment, a configuration is described in which switching is performed in a virtual space image between making a user object 502 transparent and making the user object 502 opaque in a situation in which there is a greater need to switch.

[0161] 2 again, in the user terminal 10 according to the third embodiment, the control unit 190 switches between making the user object 502 transparent and making the user object 502 opaque, depending on the position of the user object 502. A specific example of switching depending on the position of the user object 502 will be described below.

[0162] (a) When a user object is gazing at another object (a-1) User terminal configuration When the user object 502 is gazing at another object, the control unit 190 switches the user object 502 in the virtual space image from opaque to transparent. More specifically, the image generation unit 196 in the control unit 190 makes the user object 502 in the virtual space image transparent when the user object 502 is located near the other object and the other object is located within a predetermined area in the virtual space image for a predetermined period of time or more. The predetermined area is, for example, an area including the center of the virtual space image.

[0163] (i) Example 1 Fig. 11 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a display screen according to the third embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 11(a) shows a virtual space image when a user object 502 comes in front of a screen object 1302, which is another object. Fig. 11(b) shows a virtual space image when the user object 502 is gazing at the screen object 1302.

[0164] 11(a), it is assumed that the user object 502 moves in front of the screen object 1302. At this time, the control unit 190 displays a virtual space image in which the user object 502 is opaque on the display 132. Also, at this time, the screen object 1302 is included in a predetermined area of ​​the virtual space image.

[0165] 11(a) is displayed on the display 132, the user ends the movement operation of the user object 502 in order to view the video being played on the screen object 1302. In this case, the screen object 1302 continues to be included in a predetermined area of ​​the virtual space image.

[0166] The image generating unit 196 performs, for example, an image analysis process to determine whether or not a state in which the screen object 1302 is included in a predetermined area of ​​the virtual space image continues for a predetermined time or more. If the image generating unit 196 determines that the state continues for a predetermined time or more, the image generating unit 196 makes the user object 502 in the virtual space image transparent, as shown in (b) of FIG.

[0167] (ii) Example 2 Fig. 12 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a display screen according to the third embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 12(a) shows a virtual space image when a user object 502 comes in front of a product object 1303, which is another object. Fig. 12(b) shows a virtual space image when the user object 502 is gazing at the product object 1303.

[0168] 12(a), it is assumed that a user object 502 enters a store in a virtual space 501 and moves in front of a product object 1303. At this time, the control unit 190 displays a virtual space image in which the user object 502 is opaque on the display 132. Also, at this time, one or more product objects 1303 are included in a predetermined area in the virtual space image.

[0169] 12(a) is displayed on the display 132, the user ends the movement operation of the user object 502 in order to view the product object 1303. In this case, the product object 1303 continues to be included in a predetermined area of ​​the virtual space image.

[0170] The image generating unit 196 performs, for example, an image analysis process to determine whether or not a state in which the product object 1303 is included in a predetermined area of ​​the virtual space image continues for a predetermined time or more. If the image generating unit 196 determines that the state has continued for a predetermined time or more, the image generating unit 196 makes the user object 502 in the virtual space image transparent, as shown in FIG. 12(b).

[0171] (a-2) Example of program operation Fig. 13 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of operation of a program according to the third embodiment of the present disclosure. The operations from step S610 to step S630 shown in Fig. 13 are similar to the operations from step S510 to step S530 shown in Fig. 10, and therefore detailed description thereof will not be repeated here.

[0172] Next, the control unit 190 determines whether or not the user object 502 is located near another object based on, for example, the virtual space information 152 shown in FIG. 2 and the position information of the user object 502 (step S640).

[0173] Next, if the control unit 190 determines that the user object 502 is located near another object ("YES" in step S640), it determines whether the other object has been located within a predetermined area of ​​the virtual space image for a predetermined period of time or more (step S650).

[0174] Next, it is assumed that the control unit 190 determines that the other object is located within the predetermined area for a predetermined period of time or more ("YES" in step S650). In this case, the control unit 190 switches the user object 502 in the virtual space image from opaque to transparent, and displays the switched virtual space image on the display 132 (step S660).

[0175] On the other hand, in step S640, if the control unit 190 determines that the user object 502 is not located near another object ("NO" in step S640), it does not make the user object 502 transparent, and continues to display the virtual space image in which the user object 502 is opaque.

[0176] Also, if the user object 502 is located near another object ("YES" in step S640), but the other object is not located within the above-mentioned predetermined area, or the state of being located within the above-mentioned predetermined area does not continue for a predetermined time or more ("NO" in step S650), the control unit 190 does not make the user object 502 transparent, and continues to display the virtual space image in which the user object 502 is opaque.

[0177] (b) When a user object overlaps another object (b-1) User terminal configuration When the user object 502 is located near another object and overlaps with the other object in the virtual space image, the control unit 190 may switch the user object 502 in the virtual space image from opaque to transparent.

[0178] More specifically, the image generating unit 196 performs, for example, an image analysis process, and when it detects that the user object 502 overlaps with another object in the virtual space image, it makes the user object 502 transparent in the virtual space image.

[0179] This example will be specifically described with reference to Fig. 14. Fig. 14 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a display screen according to the third embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 14(a) shows a virtual space image when the user object 502 comes in front of another user object 1105, which is another object. Fig. 14(b) shows a virtual space image when the user object 502 is having a conversation with the other user object 1105.

[0180] As shown in FIG. 14(a), it is assumed that the user's object 502 moves in front of the other user's object 1105 and thereby overlaps with the other user's object 1105 in the virtual space image.

[0181] In this case, the image generation unit 196 switches the virtual space image from an image in which the user object 502 is opaque, as shown in (a) of FIG. 14, to an image in which the user object 502 is transparent, as shown in (b) of FIG. 14.

[0182] In addition, when the user object 502 is located near another object and the other object overlaps the user object 502 in the virtual space image, there is a possibility that an awkward feeling will occur if the user object 502 disappears from the display screen. Therefore, in such a case, the image generating unit 196 continues to generate an image in which the user object 502 is opaque.

[0183] (b-2) Example of program operation Fig. 15 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of operations of a program according to the third embodiment of the present disclosure. Operations from step S710 to step S740 shown in Fig. 15 are similar to operations from step S610 to step S640 shown in Fig. 13, and therefore detailed description thereof will not be repeated here.

[0184] Next, if the control unit 190 determines that the user object 502 is located near another object ("YES" in step S740), it determines whether the user object 502 overlaps with the other object in the virtual space image (step S750).

[0185] Next, it is assumed that the control unit 190 determines that the user object 502 overlaps with the other object in the virtual space image ("YES" in step S750). In this case, the control unit 190 switches the user object 502 in the virtual space image from opaque to transparent, and displays the switched virtual space image on the display 132 (step S760).

[0186] On the other hand, in step S740, if the control unit 190 determines that the user object 502 is not located near another object ("NO" in step S740), it does not make the user object 502 transparent, and continues to display the virtual space image in which the user object 502 is opaque.

[0187] Also, if the user object 502 is located near another object ("YES" in step S740), but the user object 502 does not overlap the other object in the virtual space image ("NO" in step S750), the control unit 190 does not make the user object 502 transparent and continues to display the virtual space image in which the user object 502 is opaque.

[0188] The control unit 190 may be configured to switch the virtual space image between a third-person perspective image and a first-person perspective image when the user object 502 overlaps with another object in the virtual space image and a predetermined condition is satisfied. For example, the control unit 190 may switch the virtual space image to a first-person perspective image when the user object 502 overlaps with another object and the overlapping area is equal to or larger than a predetermined value.

[0189] Also, for example, the control unit 190 may switch the virtual space image to a first-person perspective image when the user object 502 overlaps with another object and the overlapping portion is a specific portion such as the face of the other object. Also, for example, the control unit 190 may switch the virtual space image to a first-person perspective image when the user object 502 overlaps with another object and such a state continues for a predetermined time or more.

[0190] (c) When the user object is located in a specific area in the virtual space (c-1) User terminal configuration When the user object 502 is located in a specific area in the virtual space 501, the control unit 190 may perform a process corresponding to the specific area, either a process of making the user object 502 transparent or a process of making the user object 502 opaque.

[0191] More specifically, for example, a plurality of areas are registered in advance as specific areas in the virtual space information 152 shown in Fig. 2. Also, in the virtual space information 152, each specific area is associated with making the user object 502 transparent or opaque.

[0192] Specifically, it is assumed that the specific area is a game area of ​​an athletic game. When the user object 502 plays the athletic game in the game area, it is easier for the user to play the game by checking the movement of the user object 502. For this reason, making the user object 502 opaque is associated with the game area of ​​the athletic game.

[0193] Also, assume that the specific area is a game area of ​​a shooting game. When a user object 502 plays a shooting game in the game area, it is difficult for the user to play the game if the game area is hidden by the user object 502. For this reason, making the user object 502 transparent is associated with the game area of ​​the shooting game.

[0194] It should be noted that the specific area is not limited to a game area, but may be other areas such as the inside of a store or a concert venue.

[0195] 2 and the position information of the user object 502. If the image generating unit 196 determines that the user object 502 is located in a specific area, the image generating unit 196 generates a virtual space image according to either making the user object 502 transparent or making the user object 502 opaque, whichever is associated with the specific area.

[0196] This example will be specifically described with reference to Fig. 16. Fig. 16 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a display screen according to the third embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 16(a) shows a virtual space image when a user object 502 comes in front of a game area of ​​an athletic game, which is an example of a specific area. Fig. 16(b) shows a virtual space image when a user object 502 enters the game area.

[0197] As shown in (a) of Fig. 16, when the user object 502 moves to and stops in front of the game area, the user object 502 in the virtual space image is transparent. In this state, when the user object 502 enters the game area, as shown in (b) of Fig. 16, the image generating unit 196 switches the user object 502 in the virtual space image from transparent to opaque.

[0198] (c-2) Example of program operation Fig. 17 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of operations of a program according to the third embodiment of the present disclosure. Operations from step S810 to step S830 shown in Fig. 17 are similar to operations from step S610 to step S630 shown in Fig. 13, and therefore detailed description thereof will not be repeated here.

[0199] Next, the control unit 190 determines whether or not the user object 502 is located in a specific area based on, for example, the virtual space information 152 shown in FIG. 2 and the position information of the user object 502 (step S840).

[0200] Next, when the control unit 190 determines that the user object 502 is located in a specific area ("YES" in step S840), it refers to the virtual space information 152 to check whether or not making the user object 502 transparent is associated with the specific area (step S850).

[0201] Next, it is assumed that the specific area is associated with making the user object 502 transparent ("YES" in step S850). In this case, the control unit 190 switches the user object 502 in the virtual space image from opaque to transparent, and displays the switched virtual space image on the display 132 (step S860).

[0202] On the other hand, if the control unit 190 determines that the user object 502 is not located in a specific area ("NO" in step S840), it does not make the user object 502 transparent, and continues to display the virtual space image in which the user object 502 is opaque.

[0203] In addition, when the user object 502 is located in a specific area ("YES" in step S840) and opacity is associated with the specific area ("NO" in step S850), the control unit 190 does not make the user object 502 transparent, and continues to display the virtual space image in which the user object 502 is opaque.

[0204] The control unit 190 may be configured to perform two or more of the above-mentioned operations (a) to (c).

[0205] The first to third embodiments of the present disclosure have been described in detail above, but as long as there is no hindrance to the operation of the program, control unit 290 may be responsible for part of the processing that control unit 190 performed in the description of each embodiment, or control unit 190 may be responsible for at least part of the processing that control unit 290 performed.

[0206] For example, the program may be a program that realizes a so-called cloud-type system in which the control unit 290 executes generation of the virtual space 501 and virtual objects, and generation of virtual space images. Also, the program may be a so-called stand-alone type program without including the server 20. Also, without including the server 20, a configuration may be adopted in which a plurality of user objects can exist in the same virtual space 501 by P2P communication between user terminals.

[0207] In addition, two or more of the first to third embodiments of the present disclosure may be combined. For example, by combining the first embodiment and the second embodiment, the control unit 190 may switch between making the user object 502 transparent and making the user object 502 opaque in the virtual space image based on both the presence or absence of a movement operation of the user object 502 and the orientation of the virtual camera 503.

[0208] Furthermore, by combining the first and third embodiments, the control unit 190 may switch between making the user object 502 transparent and making the user object 502 opaque in the virtual space image based on both the presence or absence of a movement operation of the user object 502 and the position of the user object 502.

[0209] Furthermore, by combining the first, second and third embodiments, the control unit 190 may switch between making the user object 502 transparent and making the user object 502 opaque in the virtual space image, based on all of the presence or absence of a movement operation of the user object 502, the orientation of the virtual camera 503, and the position of the user object 502.

[0210] Furthermore, the above-described embodiments are merely examples for facilitating understanding of the present invention, and are not intended to limit the present invention. The present invention can be modified and improved without departing from the spirit of the present invention, and it goes without saying that the present invention includes equivalents thereof.

[0211] The contents relating to the third embodiment of the present disclosure are listed as follows. (Item 3-1) A program executed by a computer, The program causes the computer to A means for generating a virtual space; means for placing a virtual camera and a user object in the virtual space; a means for generating a virtual space image, which is an image of the virtual space, based on the virtual camera; a means for moving the user object within the virtual space based on a movement operation for moving the user object; As a means for generating the virtual space image, A program that switches between making the user object transparent and making the user object opaque depending on the position of the user object. In such a program, for example, when a user object moves in front of an object in the virtual space, such as a signboard or a product in a store, the user object in the virtual space image can be switched from opaque to transparent, thereby preventing the object from being hidden by the user object. In addition, in the above program, for example, when a user object moves to an intersection in the virtual space, the user object in the virtual space image can be switched from transparent to opaque, which makes it easier for the user to grasp the direction in which the user object is facing. In this way, the program according to the third embodiment of the present disclosure can more appropriately display a user object in a virtual space image.

[0212] (Item 3-2) As a means for generating the virtual space image, The program according to item 3-1, wherein the user object is made transparent when the user object is located near an object other than the user object and overlaps the other object in the virtual space image. This makes it possible to prevent other objects from being hidden by the user object.

[0213] (Item 3-3) As a means for generating the virtual space image, The program according to item 3-1 or 3-2, which makes the user object transparent when the user object is located near an object other than the user object and the other object is located within a predetermined area in the virtual space image for a predetermined period of time or more. This makes it possible to prevent, for example, when a user object is gazing at another object such as a signboard or a product, the other object from being obscured by the user object.

[0214] (Item 3-4) As a means for generating the virtual space image, The program according to any one of items 3-1 to 3-3, wherein when the user object is located in a specific area in the virtual space, one of a process of making the user object transparent and a process of making the user object opaque is performed, the process corresponding to the specific area. This makes it possible to generate an image in which a more appropriate process, between making the user object transparent and making the user object opaque, has been performed depending on the specific area in which the user object is located.

[0215] (Item 3-5) The program according to item 3-4, wherein the specific area is a game area where a game is played. In such a program, for example, when a user object is located in a game area of ​​an athletic game, an image can be generated in which the user object is opaque so that the user object's movements can be easily understood. Also, in the above program, for example, when a user object is located in a game area of ​​a shooting game, an image can be generated in which the user object is transparent to prevent part of the game area from being hidden by the user object. Therefore, it is possible to generate, as the virtual space image, either an image in which the user object is transparent or an image in which the user object is opaque, whichever is more appropriate for facilitating game play.

[0216] (Item 3-6) An information processing system including one or more information processing devices, A process of generating a virtual space; placing a virtual camera and a user object in the virtual space; A process of generating a virtual space image, which is an image of the virtual space, based on the virtual camera; a process of moving the user object within the virtual space based on a movement operation for moving the user object; In the process of generating the virtual space image, switching between making the user object transparent and making the user object opaque depending on a position of the user object; Information processing system. In such an information processing system, for example, when a user object moves in front of an object in the virtual space, such as in front of a signboard or in front of a product in a store, the user object in the virtual space image can be switched from opaque to transparent, thereby preventing the object from being hidden by the user object. In addition, in the information processing system, for example, when a user object moves to an intersection in the virtual space, the user object in the virtual space image can be switched from transparent to opaque, which makes it easier for the user to grasp the direction in which the user object is facing. In this manner, in the information processing system according to the third embodiment of the present disclosure, it is possible to more appropriately display a user object in a virtual space image. [Explanation of symbols]

[0217] 1: system, 10: user terminal, 20: server, 30: network, 130: touch screen, 150: memory unit (of user terminal), 190: control unit (of user terminal), 250: memory unit (of server), 290: control unit (of server), 501: virtual space, 502: user object, 503: virtual camera

Claims

1. A program executed by a computer, The program causes the computer to means for generating a virtual space image, which is an image of the virtual space, based on a virtual camera disposed in the virtual space; a means for moving a user object in the virtual space based on a movement operation for moving the user object placed in the virtual space; As a means for generating the virtual space image, The program causes the user object to become transparent when the user object is located near an object other than the user object and transitions from a moving state to a stopped state.

2. As a means for generating the virtual space image, When changing the user object from opaque to transparent, the transparency of the user object is gradually increased; When changing the user object from transparent to opaque, the transparency of the user object is gradually decreased; The program according to claim 1.

3. As a means for generating the virtual space image, 3. The program according to claim 1, further comprising: a program for causing a user object to become opaque when the user object is located near an object other than the user object and transitions from a moving state to a stopped state, and the other object overlaps the user object.

4. An information processing system including one or more information processing devices, A process of generating a virtual space image, which is an image of the virtual space, based on a virtual camera arranged in the virtual space; a process of moving the user object in the virtual space based on a movement operation for moving the user object placed in the virtual space; In the process of generating the virtual space image, The information processing system makes the user object transparent when the user object is located near an object other than the user object and transitions from a moving state to a stationary state.

Images