WALKING ASSISTANCE SYSTEM, WALKING ASSISTANCE METHOD, AND WALKING ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

Abstract

To provide a walking support system, a walking support method, and a walking support program that appropriately guide participants while ensuring freedom of action selection. [Solution] In a strolling support system (1), a performance control device (10) detects participants using performance devices (30P1, 30P2) carried by participants (PA1, PA2). Then, in a space where the detected participants can select a route and stroll, a recommended route for the participants is determined. Furthermore, information for guiding the participants to the recommended route without restricting their entry into non-recommended routes, which are routes different from the recommended route, is transmitted to performance devices (30P1, 30P2).

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a walking assistance system, a walking assistance method, and a walking assistance program. [Background technology]

[0002] In recent years, an experiential event called a "night walk" has been gaining attention. In a typical night walk, participants stroll through an outdoor facility decorated with illuminations at night.

[0003] In the Night Walk described in Non-Patent Document 1, participants can enjoy digital art by walking along a predetermined route. Specifically, several points are set along the route. At each point, digital art is expressed by decorating trees, rocks, etc. with laser beams or projection mapping. [Prior art documents] [Non-patent literature]

[0004] [Non-Patent Document 1] “Tonga Lumina Tremblant | A night walk in search of the giant”, [online], [Retrieved May 21, 2020], Internet<URL:https: / / www.tongalumina.ca / en / > Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] In the night walk described in Non-Patent Document 1, the route that participants walk along is a single road. Therefore, participants do not need to worry about where to go, but on the other hand, participants have little freedom in choosing their actions. In addition, while the experiences that participants can obtain in such events are stable, even if they participate repeatedly, it is difficult to expect to discover unknown discoveries or encounter unexpected events. Therefore, it is not easy to motivate participants to use the event repeatedly.

[0006] On the other hand, if we try to ensure that participants have the freedom to choose their actions, there is a risk that they will become lost or anxious about whether they have chosen the right path.

[0007] The objective of the present disclosure is to ensure freedom of action choice while providing appropriate guidance to participants. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] A walking support system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes a means for determining a recommended route for a participant in a space in which the participant can select a route and wander around, and a means for guiding the participant to the recommended route without restricting the participant from entering non-recommended routes that are different from the recommended route. Effect of the Invention

[0009] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to appropriately guide participants while ensuring freedom of action selection. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a stroll support system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 2] 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a performance control device of the present embodiment. [Diagram 3] FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram of an overview of the present embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram of an overview of the present embodiment. [Diagram 5] FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram of an overview of the present embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a data structure of a branch area database according to the present embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a data structure of a career path database according to the present embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a data structure of a participant database according to the present embodiment. [Figure 9] 11 is a flowchart showing a stroll support process according to the present embodiment. [Figure 10] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of a participant guidance process in FIG. 9; [Figure 11] 13 is a flowchart showing an example of participant guidance processing in the first modification example. [Figure 12] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a performance content for guidance. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a performance content for guidance. [Figure 14] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a performance content for guidance. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0011] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In the drawings for explaining the embodiment, the same components are generally designated by the same reference numerals, and the repeated description will be omitted.

[0012] (1) Configuration of the walking support system The configuration of the strolling support system will be described below. Fig. 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the strolling support system of this embodiment.

[0013] The strolling support system of this embodiment provides strolling support to people (hereinafter, referred to as "participants") who participate in an event in which people stroll through a space. As shown in FIG. 1, stroll support system 1 includes performance control device 10, performance device 30 (for example, performance device 30S1, performance device 30P1, and performance device 30P2), and state detection device 50 (for example, state detection device 50B1). Performance control device 10 is connected to performance device 30 and state detection device 50 via a network (eg, the Internet or an intranet) NW.

[0014] The performance control device 10 is, for example, a computer. The performance control device 10 controls the operation of the performance device 30. The performance control device 10 acquires information from the state detection device 50 regarding the state of the participants, the performance device 30, or the space.

[0015] The production device 30 is a device that can perform a production by giving sensory stimuli to the participants. The production device 30 operates under the control of the production control device 10. A sensory stimulus is, for example, a stimulus to at least one of the participant's senses of sight, hearing, touch, smell, and taste. The presentation is performed for the purpose of decorating the space or for the purpose of supporting the participants' wandering. The support for the participants' wandering may be, for example, showing recommended routes, showing selectable routes, showing prohibited areas, or a combination thereof, as described below. The production device 30 includes at least one of a production device carried by a participant (e.g., production device 30P1 carried by participant PA1, and production device 30P2 carried by participant PA2) and a production device installed in the space (e.g., production device 30S1). The production device 30 carried by the participant may be a mobile computer (e.g., a smartphone), a wearable device (smart glasses, a see-through HMD (Head Mounted Display), a smart watch), etc. The production device 30 carried by the participant may be provided (e.g., loaned or transferred) by the event organizer, may be a personal item of the participant, or may be configured by combining the participant's personal item with parts (e.g., a penlight connectable to a USB (Universal Serial Bus)) or an application provided by the event organizer.

[0016] Specific examples of the rendering device 30 are shown below, but the rendering device 30 is not limited to the examples shown below. The performance device 30 includes a means for emitting light (for example, a light source). The production device 30 includes a means for displaying an image (e.g., a display). As an example, the production device 30 carried by the participant may display an AR (Augmented Reality) image, an MR (Mixed Reality) image, or an SR (Substitutional Reality) image. The performance device 30 includes a means for projecting an image (for example, a projector). The performance device 30 includes a means for outputting sound (e.g., a speaker). The performance device 30 includes a means for generating vibrations (for example, a haptic device). The performance device 30 includes a means for generating an odor (for example, an aroma device). The presentation device 30 includes a means for stimulating the taste buds of the participants (for example, a mouthpiece-type device capable of supplying a taste stimulant liquid to the participant's tongue). The stage production device 30 is provided with a means for moving itself or changing its own posture (e.g., a robot). The performance device 30 includes a means for operating electrically controllable machinery. The production device 30 includes a means for generating a physical phenomenon that can be perceived by the participants (for example, fog, smoke, water flow, air flow, heat, fire, or electric discharge).

[0017] The state detection device 50 detects the state of the participants, the production device 30, or the space, and transmits the detection result to the production control device 10. The state of the participant is, for example, the position of the participant, the posture of the participant, the gaze direction of the participant, the total walking distance of the participant, the total walking time of the participant, the walking speed of the participant, the vitals of the participant, or a combination thereof. The state of the production device 30 is, for example, the position of the production device 30 carried by the participant, the attitude of the production device 30 carried by the participant, or a combination thereof. The spatial condition may be, for example, temperature, humidity, airflow, illuminance, or a combination thereof. The state detection device 50 is typically installed in the space, but may be carried by a participant (as an example, it may be provided in a performance device 30 carried by a participant).

[0018] A specific example of the state detection device 50 will be described below, but the state detection device 50 is not limited to the following example. -Motion sensor Distance measurement sensor GPS receiver - Beacon-based positioning system Optical sensors (e.g. cameras) Timer ·microphone Acceleration sensor Angular rate sensor Vital Sensor Temperature Sensor Humidity sensor Airflow sensor Light sensor

[0019] (1-1) Configuration of the production control device The configuration of the performance control device of this embodiment will be described below. Fig. 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the performance control device of this embodiment.

[0020] As shown in FIG. 1, the performance control device 10 includes a storage device 11, a processor 12, an input / output interface 13, and a communication interface 14.

[0021] The storage device 11 is configured to store programs and data. The storage device 11 is, for example, a combination of a Read Only Memory (ROM), a Random Access Memory (RAM), and a storage (for example, a flash memory or a hard disk).

[0022] The programs include, for example, the following programs: ·OS (Operating System) programs - Programs for applications that perform information processing (e.g., walking support applications)

[0023] The data includes, for example, the following data: Databases referenced in information processing Data obtained by performing information processing (i.e., the results of performing information processing)

[0024] The processor 12 is configured to realize the functions of the performance control device 10 by starting a program stored in the storage device 11. The processor 12 is an example of a computer.

[0025] The input / output interface 13 is configured to acquire user instructions from an input device connected to the performance control device 10 , and to output information to an output device connected to the performance control device 10 . The input device is, for example, a keyboard, a pointing device, a touch panel, or a combination thereof. The output device is, for example, a display.

[0026] The communication interface 14 is configured to control communication between the performance control device 10 and an external device (eg, the performance device 30 and the state detection device 50).

[0027] (2) Overview of the embodiment An overview of this embodiment will be described. Fig. 3 is an explanatory diagram of the overview of this embodiment. Fig. 4 is an explanatory diagram of the overview of this embodiment. Fig. 5 is an explanatory diagram of the overview of this embodiment.

[0028] As shown in FIG. 3, a plurality of routes are prepared in the space SP, and the participant PA1 can freely select a route and stroll along it. Each route may be easily recognized as a terrain by the participant PA1 as a route indicating the direction of travel (for example, a route that can be visually recognized as a naturally formed passage or a well-maintained passage), or may not be clearly recognized as a route by the participant PA1 (for example, a route that is not clearly formed as a passage or is not well-maintained). The space SP may be indoors or outdoors, or may be partitioned into outdoor and indoor areas alternately. From the viewpoint of enhancing the visual production effect (for example, image projection or light emission), the space SP is typically set in a dark environment (for example, a dark room or at night), but it is not essential to set it in a dark environment. In the following description, the space SP is assumed to be a forest at night. Participant PA1 carries a performance device 30P1 equipped with a light emitting means, and proceeds with a stroll while illuminating his or her surroundings.

[0029] In the space SP, rendering device 30 and state detection device 50B1 may be installed. In the example of Fig. 3, rendering devices 30C11-30C14, rendering devices 30C21-30C24, and state detection device 50B1 are installed in the space SP.

[0030] The performance control device 10 determines a route (hereinafter referred to as a "recommended route") to be recommended to the participant PA1 from two routes C1 and C2 starting from a branching area prepared in the space SP. A branching area is a location that connects to multiple routes that the participant can enter. In each branching area, the participant selects one of multiple routes that branch off from the branching area. The recommended route by the performance control device 10 is, for example, an empty (i.e., uncrowded) route, a route predicted to meet the participant's needs, a route that allows the participant to enjoy a performance that he or she has never experienced before, or a route that allows the participant to enjoy a performance according to the fee paid by the participant. The performance control device 10 determines the recommended course for each guidance unit individually. The guidance unit is not limited to one participant, but may be multiple participants (for example, friends, family, couples, or multiple participants who arrive at the branch area at the same time). As an example, when detecting that the participant PA1 has reached a branch area via the state detection device 50B1, the performance control device 10 may determine a recommended route for the participant PA1.

[0031] The performance control device 10 controls the operation of the performance device 30 to guide the participant PA1 to the recommended course determined for the participant PA1. As an example, when detecting that the participant PA1 has reached a branch area via the state detection device 50B1, the performance control device 10 may start guiding the participant PA1.

[0032] As shown in FIG. 4, when the performance control device 10 determines the route C1 as the recommended route, the performance control device 10 operates the performance devices 30C11 to 30C14 associated with the route C1, thereby guiding the participant PA1 to the route C1. As one example, the performance control device 10 causes performance devices 30C11-30C13 installed near the entrance to the path C1 to emit light, thereby stimulating the vision of the participant PA1 and drawing his or her attention to the path C1. Furthermore, the performance control device 10 causes the performance device 30C14 to project a predetermined image VE near the entrance of the path C1, thereby stimulating the vision of the participant PA1 and drawing his or her attention to the path C1. The predetermined image VE may be, for example, an image of a character with an animal motif. The predetermined image VE may be a still image or a moving image. Furthermore, the performance control device 10 may move the projection position of the image VE along the course C1 to further attract the attention of the participant PA1.

[0033] As shown in FIG. 5, when the performance control device 10 determines the route C2 as the recommended route, the performance control device 10 operates the performance devices 30C21 to 30C24 associated with the route C2, thereby guiding the participant PA1 to the route C2. As one example, the performance control device 10 causes performance devices 30C21-30C23 installed near the entrance to the path C2 to emit light, thereby stimulating the vision of the participant PA1 and drawing his or her attention to the path C2. In addition, the performance control device 10 causes the performance device 30C24 installed near the entrance of the path C2 to output a predetermined sound, thereby stimulating the hearing of the participant PA1 and drawing the participant's attention to the path C2. The predetermined sound may be, for example, the sound of a character with an animal motif.

[0034] In this way, the strolling support system 1 determines the recommended route for the participant in a space where the participant can freely select the route and stroll, and guides the participant to the recommended route. Therefore, the strolling support system 1 can appropriately guide the participant by making the participant unconsciously pay attention to the recommended route while ensuring the participant's freedom of action selection (for example, the freedom to select route C2 when route C1 is determined as the recommended route, or the freedom to select route C1 when route C2 is determined as the recommended route).

[0035] As described above, participants can freely choose a route to explore the space, so the walking support system 1 does not restrict participants from entering non-recommended routes. In other words, participants are guaranteed the freedom to choose routes other than the recommended routes (hereinafter, referred to as "non-recommended routes"). Specifically, the stroll support system 1 does not perform at least one of the following operations. - Make non-recommended routes physically inaccessible. · Create a performance that prevents participants from finding the non-recommended routes (for example, the performance control device 10 completely turns off the performance devices 30 near the entrances to the non-recommended routes). - Create a performance that gives the participants the illusion that the non-recommended route is an area where walking is prohibited (hereinafter referred to as a "prohibited area") (for example, the performance control device 10 causes the performance device 30 to output an alarm sound near the entrance to the non-recommended route).

[0036] Furthermore, whether the stroll support system 1 has determined a given route as a recommended route does not affect the content of the experience provided to the participant on that route. Specifically, the route-related effects that are not related to guiding to the recommended route (e.g., effects after the route selection is confirmed) may be set to the same regardless of the participant's selection. In other words, the performance control device 10 may cause the performance device 30 associated with the given route to perform the same performance when either a participant who has determined the given route as a recommended route or a participant who has determined the given route as a non-recommended route travels along the given route.

[0037] (3) Database The databases of this embodiment are stored in the storage device 11.

[0038] (3-1) Branch area database The branch area database of this embodiment will now be described with reference to Fig. 6, which is a diagram showing the data structure of the branch area database of this embodiment.

[0039] 6, the branch area database includes an "area ID" field, a "route" field, and a "state detection device" field. Each field is associated with the others. The branch area database stores branch area information, which is information about branch areas set within the space SP.

[0040] The "area ID" field stores an area ID. The area ID is information for identifying a branch area.

[0041] The "route" field stores connecting route information. The connecting route information is information about routes that can branch off from a branching area (i.e., routes that start from the branching area).

[0042] The "status detection device" field stores status detection device information. The status detection device information is information about a status detection device 50 associated with a branching area (for example, a status detection device 50 installed within the branching area).

[0043] (3-2) Career Database The career database of this embodiment will now be described with reference to Fig. 7, which shows the data structure of the career database of this embodiment.

[0044] 7, the route database includes a "route ID" field, a "start point" field, an "end point" field, a "performance device" field, a "status detection device" field, and a "congestion status" field. Each field is associated with the others. The route database stores route information, which is information about routes set within the space SP.

[0045] The "route ID" field stores a route ID. The route ID is information for identifying a route.

[0046] The "start point" field stores start point information. The start point information is information about the start point of the route. The start point of the route can be determined as a branching area or an entrance to the space SP. The entrance to the space SP may be one of the branching areas.

[0047] The "end point" field stores end point information. The end point information is information about the end point of the route. The end point of the route can be determined at a branch area or an exit of the space SP.

[0048] The "Production Device" field stores production device information. The production device information is information about the production device 30 associated with the course (for example, the production device 30 installed within the course, or the production device 30 installed at the start or end of the course).

[0049] The "status detector" field stores status detector information. The status detector information is information about a status detector 50 associated with a route (e.g., a status detector 50 installed within the route, or a status detector 50 installed at the start or end point of the route).

[0050] The "congestion status" field stores congestion status information. The congestion status information is information about the congestion status of the route. The congestion status information can be dynamically updated, for example, by referring to the detection results of the status detection device 50 associated with the route.

[0051] (3-3) Participant database The participant database of this embodiment will now be described with reference to Fig. 8, which is a diagram showing the data structure of the participant database of this embodiment.

[0052] 8, the participant database includes a "participant ID" field, a "walking history" field, an "attributes" field, a "registration information" field, and a "status" field. Each field is associated with the others. The participant database stores participant information, which is information relating to participants.

[0053] The "participant ID" field stores a participant ID. The participant ID is information for identifying a participant. The participant ID may be included in data transmitted, for example, from production equipment 30 or other device carried by the participant.

[0054] The "history" field stores history information. The history information is information about the history of the participant's past experiences. As an example, the history information includes information about paths previously selected by the participant, information about performances previously experienced by the participant, or a combination thereof. The history information can be acquired, for example, by a participant's self-reporting. As an example, each time a participant finishes exploring the space SP, a code (for example, a QR code (registered trademark) or other two-dimensional barcode) indicating the path selected by the participant or the performance experienced by the participant may be issued. When a participant explores the space SP again, the participant can easily report his / her own history information by presenting the issued code to a code reader. The code reader is installed, for example, at the entrance to the space SP, in a branching area, or along the path.

[0055] The "attribute" field stores attribute information. The attribute information is information about the attributes of the participants. As an example, the attribute information includes the age group, sex, and participation form of the participant (for example, whether the participant is participating alone, in a group, or with children), or a combination thereof. The attribute information may be acquired through self-reporting by the participant, or may be estimated with reference to the detection result of the state detection device 50.

[0056] The "Registration Information" field stores registration information. The registration information is information about the registration contents by the participant. As an example, the registration information may be a code assigned to the particular track registered by the participant. The code assigned to a specific path may be attached to a product related to an event set in the SP space, or the code itself may be sold as a product. The code may be set to be valid only for one use in order to prevent unauthorized use. For example, a participant can easily register a code assigned to a specific route by presenting a code attached to a product (e.g., a pamphlet for an event) that he or she has acquired to a code reader. The code reader may be installed, for example, at the entrance to the space SP, in a branching area, or along the route.

[0057] The "status" field stores status information. The status information is information about the status of a participant. As described above, the state of the participant may be, for example, the position of the participant, the posture of the participant, the total walking distance of the participant, the total walking time of the participant, the walking speed of the participant, the vitals of the participant, or a combination thereof. The state information can be dynamically updated by referring to the detection results of the state detection device 50.

[0058] (4) Walking support processing The strolling support process of this embodiment will be described below. Fig. 9 is a flowchart showing the strolling support process of this embodiment. Fig. 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the participant guidance process of Fig. 9.

[0059] As shown in FIG. 9, the performance control device 10 executes detection of participants (S110). Specifically, the processor 12 refers to the detection result of the state detection device 50 and detects that the participant has arrived at the branching area. Furthermore, participants who arrive at the branching area may be individually identified. As an example, participants may be individually identified by transmitting data including a participant ID from the production device 30 or other device carried by the participant. Alternatively, participants may be individually identified by, for example, image recognition, by registering their faces or other features in advance.

[0060] After step S110, the performance control device 10 executes determination of a recommended course (S111). Specifically, the processor 12 determines a recommended course for the participant detected in step S110 (hereinafter referred to as a "target participant").

[0061] In a first example of step S111, the processor 12 determines a recommended path for the target participants based on the distribution of people in the space SP. As an example, the processor 12 refers to the branch area database (FIG. 6) and identifies a route associated with the branch area detected in step S110 (hereinafter, referred to as the "target branch area"). The processor 12 refers to the route database (FIG. 7) and acquires congestion status information for the identified route. The processor 12 refers to the acquired congestion status information and determines the recommended route for the target participants so that the participants are distributed among the identified routes. Specifically, any of the following routes may be determined as the recommended route. The least crowded route (e.g. the route with the least number of participants walking or the route with the least population density (participants per area) of participants walking) The route with the oldest time last determined as the recommended route The route with the greatest distance to the other participant closest to the target branch area (i.e., the greatest distance between the target participant and the other participants ahead of them) According to the first example of step S111, a route that is less crowded and allows the event to be enjoyed safely and comfortably is determined as the recommended route.

[0062] In a second example of step S111, the processor 12 determines a recommended course for a target participant based on information about the target participant. As an example, the processor 12 refers to a branch area database (FIG. 6) to identify a route associated with the target branch area. The processor 12 refers to the participant database (FIG. 8) and acquires information about the target participant. The processor 12 refers to the acquired information about the target participant and determines one of the identified multiple routes as the recommended route for the target participant. Specifically, any of the following routes may be determined as the recommended route. -A path different from the path previously chosen by the target participant (see historical information) -Careers related to the careers previously chosen by the target participants (e.g., courses that allow experiences related to the careers previously chosen) The specific track for which the participant was assigned a registration code (see registration information) -Routes according to the walking speed of the target participants (for example, routes with a longer total distance if the walking speed of the target participants is fast, and routes with a shorter total distance if the walking speed of the target participants is slow) -Career paths according to the participation form of the target participants (for example, career paths for children if the target participants are participating with their children)

[0063] In a third example of step S111, the processor 12 determines a recommended path for the target participant according to a predetermined pattern. The processor 12 refers to the branch area database (FIG. 6) and identifies a route associated with the target branch area. The processor 12 determines one of the identified routes as a recommended route for the target participant according to a predetermined pattern. As an example, the processor 12 determines the recommended route so that the route ID changes in descending or ascending order for each guidance unit.

[0064] A fourth example of step S111 is a combination of at least two of the above first to third examples. For example, the processor 12 determines the recommended route according to the second example above if historical information or registration information of the target participant is present, and determines the recommended route according to the first or third example above if historical information and registration information of the target participant is not present.

[0065] After step S111, the performance control device 10 performs guidance for the participants (S112). Specifically, the processor 12 guides the participants to the recommended route determined in step S111.

[0066] When step S112 starts, as shown in FIG. 10, the performance control device 10 starts the guidance performance (S1121). Specifically, the processor 12 refers to the route database (FIG. 7) and identifies the performance device 30 associated with the recommended route. The processor 12 controls the operation of the identified performance device 30 to provide the sensory stimulation to the participants.

[0067] After step S1121, the performance control device 10 executes a state determination of the participants (S1122). Specifically, the processor 12 refers to the detection result (e.g., the position of the target participant) of a status detection device 50 (e.g., a status detection device 50 associated with the target branching area) to determine whether the route selection of the target participant has been confirmed. As an example, the processor 12 determines that the target participant's path selection is not confirmed if the target participant remains within the branching area, and determines that the target participant's path selection is confirmed if the target participant enters any of the paths associated with the branching area.

[0068] When it is determined in step S1122 that the course selection of the target participant has been finalized, the performance control device 10 ends the guidance performance (S1123). Specifically, processor 12 stops the operation of rendering device 30 controlled in step S1121, or returns it to the operating state before the start of step S1121. As described above, among the performances related to the course, those not related to guidance to the recommended course (for example, performances after the course selection is confirmed) may be determined to be the same regardless of the selection of the participant. In other words, when a participant who has determined a given course as a recommended course and a participant who has determined that course as a non-recommended course both travel along that course, the performance control device 10 may cause the performance device 30 associated with that course to perform the same performance. As an example, the processor 12 may return the light emission intensity or light emission color of the performance device 30 to the state before the start of step S1121.

[0069] When it is determined in step S1122 that the course selection of the target participant has not been finalized, the performance control device 10 re-executes the participant state determination (S1122).

[0070] (5) Summary As described above, the walking support system of this embodiment determines a recommended route for the participants in a space where the participants can freely select a route and walk around, and guides the participants to the recommended route. Therefore, this walking support system can appropriately guide the participants by encouraging them to unconsciously pay attention to the recommended route while ensuring the participants' freedom of action selection.

[0071] (6) Variations A modification of this embodiment will now be described.

[0072] (6-1) Variation 1 A description will be given of Modification 1. Modification 1 is an example in which the content of the guidance performance is dynamically controlled according to the state of the target participant.

[0073] A stroll support process according to the first modification will be described. Fig. 11 is a flowchart showing an example of a process for guiding a participant according to the first modification. Fig. 12 is a diagram showing an example of a performance content for guidance. Fig. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a performance content for guidance. Fig. 14 is a diagram showing an example of a performance content for guidance.

[0074] As in FIG. 9, the performance control device 10 detects participants (S110) and determines a recommended course (S111). After step S111, the performance control device 10 performs guidance for the participants (S112).

[0075] When step S112 starts, as shown in FIG. 11, the performance control device 10 starts the guidance performance (S1121) (similar to FIG. 10).

[0076] After step S1121, the performance control device 10 executes a state determination of the participants (S1122a). Specifically, the processor 12 refers to the detection result (e.g., the position of the target participant) of the state detection device 50 (e.g., the state detection device 50 associated with the target branch area) to determine whether the target participant's route selection has been finalized. Furthermore, when the target participant's route selection has not been finalized, the processor 12 determines whether the target participant is in any one of the first to third states described below. The first state is a state in which the target participant faces the recommended route. As an example, the processor 12 may determine that the target participant is in the first state when the body or gaze of the target participant faces the recommended route, when the production equipment 30 or other device carried by the target participant is pointed toward the recommended route, or when the target participant is moving in a direction approaching the recommended route. The second state is a state in which the target participant is facing a non-recommended path other than the recommended path among the paths associated with the target branch area. As an example, the processor 12 may determine that the target participant is in the second state when the body or gaze of the target participant is facing the non-recommended path, when the production device 30 or other device carried by the target participant is pointing toward the non-recommended path, or when the target participant is moving in a direction approaching the non-recommended path. The third state is a state in which the target participant faces a direction different from any of the paths. As an example, the processor 12 may determine that the target participant is in the third state when the body or gaze of the target participant faces a direction different from any of the paths, when the production device 30 or other device carried by the target participant faces a direction different from any of the paths, or when the target participant moves in a direction different from any of the paths.

[0077] When it is determined in step S1122a that the course selection of the target participant has been finalized, the performance control device 10 ends the guidance performance (S1123), as in FIG.

[0078] If it is determined in step S1122a that the course selection of the target participant has not been finalized, the performance control device 10 executes control of the performance content (S1124). Specifically, processor 12 controls the operation of rendering device 30 according to the result of the determination in step S1122a. As an example, the processor 12 controls the production device 30 to provide a first sensory stimulus to the target participant when the target participant is in a first state. The processor 12 may also control the production device 30 to provide a second sensory stimulus that is weaker than the first sensory stimulus to the target participant when the target participant is in a second state. Furthermore, the processor 12 may control the production device 30 to provide a sensory stimulus different from both the first sensory stimulus and the second sensory stimulus to the target participant, or to stop operating, when the target participant is in a third state.

[0079] When the recommended course is the course C1, the processor 12 can dynamically control the performance content of the performance device 30P1 carried by the target participant PA1 as shown in FIG. 12 to FIG.

[0080] 12, when the target participant PA1 faces the path C2 (i.e., the second state), the processor 12 causes the performance device 30P1 to emit light at a second light emission intensity that is weaker than the first light emission intensity. This makes the target participant PA1 aware of the existence of the path C2.

[0081] 13, when the target participant PA1 is not facing either the path C1 or the path C2 (i.e., the third state), the processor 12 turns off the production device 30P1. This allows the target participant PA1 to recognize that he or she cannot proceed.

[0082] 14, when the target participant PA1 faces the path C1 (i.e., the first state), the processor 12 causes the performance device 30P1 to emit light with a first emission intensity. This makes the target participant PA1 more aware of the existence of the path C1 than the path C2.

[0083] The intensity of the sensory stimulation can be adjusted using various techniques, examples of which are given below. Increasing the light intensity can enhance sensory stimulation. By setting a light color that is likely to attract human attention (such as a warning color), the sensory stimulation can be enhanced. When emitting light intermittently, the sensory stimulation can be weakened by extending the time for which the light is turned off. · Increasing the brightness of an image or video can enhance sensory stimulation. · Increasing sound pressure can intensify sensory stimulation. - Increasing the vibration amplitude enhances sensory stimulation. · The sensory stimulation can be intensified by combining more sensory stimuli (for example, by combining light, sound and vibration).

[0084] As described above, the strolling support system of the first modification dynamically controls the content of the guidance depending on the state of the target participant. Therefore, according to this strolling support system, in addition to the effects of the present embodiment, This increases the interest of participants as they observe their surroundings in the branching area and find their way forward.

[0085] (7) Other modifications The storage device 11 may be connected to the storage device 11 via a network NW.

[0086] A part or all of the functions of the production control device 10 may be incorporated in a device carried by a participant (for example, the production device 30, the state detection device 50, or a combination thereof).

[0087] In the embodiment, an example has been described in which guidance is achieved by controlling the operation of the performance device 30 associated with the recommended route. However, the performance control device 10 may further control the operation of the performance device 30 associated with the non-recommended route. Specifically, the performance control device 10 may control the performance device 30 associated with the recommended route to provide a certain sensory stimulation to the participants, and may also control the performance device 30 associated with the non-recommended route to provide a weaker sensory stimulation to the participants. As an example, the performance control device 10 may cause the performance devices 30 associated with the recommended route to emit light at a certain emission intensity, and the performance devices 30 associated with the non-recommended route to emit light at a weaker emission intensity. This allows the participants to be aware of the existence of the non-recommended route while drawing their attention to the recommended route. In other words, the participants can be given the sense that they can actively select a route. In this modified example, from the viewpoint of safety, when the selection of a non-recommended route by the participant is confirmed, the performance control device 10 may control the performance device 30 associated with the non-recommended route selected by the participant so as to give the participant a stronger sensory stimulus than before the selection of the route was confirmed. As an example, the performance control device 10 may increase the light emission intensity of the performance device 30 associated with the non-recommended route selected by the participant. This makes it easier to grasp the condition of the road surface and the surroundings, allowing the participant to continue walking safely and comfortably.

[0088] Although the example has been described in which the recommended route for a participant is determined in response to detection of the participant's arrival at a branch area, the recommended route for a participant may be determined in response to another trigger. As an example, a participant's recommended route may be determined all at once when the walk begins, or when a route is selected that ends at a target branching area, or in response to detecting that the participant or the space is in a predetermined state. In this modified example, a guidance effect may be started in response to detection of a participant's arrival at a branch area.

[0089] An example has been described in which the operation of the production device 30 carried by a participant is controlled according to the state of the participant. However, the operation of the production device 30 carried by a participant with a specific attribute may be constant regardless of the state of the participant. For example, the light emission intensity of the performance device 30 carried by a child, an elderly person, or a person with a disability may be maintained at a high level regardless of the condition of the person, while the operation of the performance device 30 installed in the space SP may be controlled (for example, the light emission intensity may be controlled) to guide the participant to a recommended route. This allows for guidance that takes into consideration the safety of the participants.

[0090] An example has been described in which the operation of the production device 30 carried by the participant is controlled according to the state of the participant. However, when multiple participants take a stroll together, such control may be performed only on the production devices 30 carried by some of the multiple participants, and the operation of the production devices 30 carried by the remaining participants may be constant regardless of the state of the participants. For example, when an adult and a child are walking together, the light intensity of the performance device 30 carried by the adult may be increased or decreased depending on the condition of the adult, while the light intensity of the performance device 30 carried by the child may be maintained at a high level regardless of the condition of the adult. This allows for guidance that takes into consideration the safety of the participants.

[0091] When a number of participants take a walk together, the participants may be prevented from becoming separated by performing a performance according to the distance between the performance devices 30 carried by the participants. For example, when an adult and a child are strolling together, if the performance device 30 carried by the child is separated from the performance device 30 carried by the adult by more than a threshold, one or both of the performance devices 30 may output an alarm sound or emit light in a different color than usual. This can draw the attention of the participants and encourage them to spontaneously regroup.

[0092] In a space, areas where participants are permitted to wander (hereinafter referred to as "permitted areas"; for example, entrances, exits, paths, and branching areas) and prohibited areas may be physically or virtually distinguished. As an example of physically distinguishing the permitted and prohibited areas, the boundary between the two areas can be defined by installing artificial objects such as fences or walls, or the positions of natural objects such as trees and rivers can be defined as the boundary between the two areas, or a combination of these can be used. As an example of virtually distinguishing between the allowed area and the prohibited area, the operation of the production device 30 carried by the participant may be different depending on whether the participant is in the allowed area or the prohibited area. As an example, when a participant is in the prohibited area, the production device 30 carried by the participant may output an alarm sound or emit light in a color different from normal. This can call the participant's attention and encourage him or her to return to the allowed area. Also, when a participant is in the prohibited area, a report may be sent to the event organizer. This allows the event organizer to rush to the scene and return the participant to the allowed area. Virtually distinguishing between permitted areas and prohibited areas has the advantage that it does not incur the burden associated with installing artificial objects or have a negative impact on the atmosphere created by the space (for example, a reduction in the sense of openness), and it makes it possible to design permitted areas and prohibited areas without being influenced by the placement of natural objects.

[0093] The path may or may not have a defined passable direction. As an example, the path is determined to be passable only in the direction from the entrance to the exit of the space (forward direction). As another example, a path may be defined that allows travel in both the forward and reverse directions, in which case a participant may unconditionally or conditionally reverse a selected path to return to a previous branching area.

[0094] In the embodiment, a recommended route is determined, but a non-recommended route may be determined first. In this example, the route that has not been determined as a non-recommended route among the multiple routes is actually determined as a recommended route.

[0095] The performance control device 10 can determine the recommended route of the participant in the branch area where the participant has reached the branch area. Here, information on whether the route (hereinafter referred to as the "first route") used by the participant to reach a given branch area (hereinafter referred to as the "second branch area") (i.e., the participant has taken) was a recommended route or a non-recommended route in the branch area immediately before the second branch area (hereinafter referred to as the "first branch area") may or may not affect the determination of the recommended route of the second branch area of ​​the participant. As an example of the latter, when the participant reaches the second branch area from the first branch area via the first route, the performance control device 10 may determine the recommended route of the participant in the second branch area without referring to information on whether the first route was a recommended route or a non-recommended route of the participant in the first branch area.

[0096] Although the embodiment of the present invention has been described in detail above, the scope of the present invention is not limited to the above embodiment. Furthermore, the above embodiment can be improved or modified in various ways without departing from the spirit of the present invention. Furthermore, the above embodiment and the modified examples can be combined.

[0097] (8) Additional Notes The matters explained in the embodiment are additionally noted below.

[0098] (Appendix 1) A means for determining a recommended route for a participant in a space where the participant can select a route and stroll (S111); A means (S112) for guiding participants to a recommended route without restricting the participants from entering a non-recommended route that is a route different from the recommended route; A walking support system (1) equipped with the above.

[0099] (Appendix 2) The means for determining a recommended path determines a recommended path for the participants based on a distribution of the participants in the space. Attachment 1 describes a walking assistance system.

[0100] (Appendix 3) The means for determining the recommended paths determines the recommended paths of the participants such that the participants are dispersed across a plurality of paths defined in the space. 10. A walking assistance system according to claim 1 or 2.

[0101] (Appendix 4) The means for determining a recommended path determines a recommended path for the participant based on the information about the participant. A walking assistance system according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

[0102] (Appendix 5) The information about the participant includes at least one of participant history information, participant registration information, participant attribute information, and participant status information; Attachment 4 describes a walking assistance system.

[0103] (Appendix 6) The means for determining the recommended route determines, as the recommended route, a route different from the route previously selected by the participant as indicated by the participant's history information; 5. A walking assistance system as described in appendix 5.

[0104] (Appendix 7) The means for determining the recommended route determines a specific route to which a code indicated by the participant's registration information is assigned as the recommended route; 5. A walking assistance system as described in appendix 5.

[0105] (Appendix 8) the space includes a plurality of branching areas including a first branching area and a second branching area; The walking support system includes a means for determining a state of a participant (S1122), The means for determining a recommended path determines a recommended path of the participant in a branch area where the participant has arrived; the means for determining a recommended route determines, when the participant has reached the second branch area from the first branch area via the first route, a recommended route for the second branch area for the participant without referring to information as to whether the first route was a recommended route or a non-recommended route for the participant in the first branch area; A walking assistance system according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

[0106] (Appendix 9) The means for guiding the participants guides the participants by controlling the operation of a performance device (30) capable of providing sensory stimulation to the participants in accordance with the recommended route. A walking assistance system according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

[0107] (Appendix 10) The production device includes at least one of a production device carried by a participant and a production device installed in a space; 10. A walking assistance system as described in appendix 9.

[0108] (Appendix 11) The performance device includes a light emitting means, The means for guiding the participants guides the participants by illuminating the performance device. 11. A walking assistance system according to claim 9 or 10.

[0109] (Appendix 12) The production device includes a means for outputting sound, The means for guiding the participants guides the participants by causing the performance device to output a predetermined sound. A walking assistance system according to any one of claims 9 to 11.

[0110] (Appendix 13) The production device includes a means for projecting an image into a space, The means for guiding the participants guides the participants by having a performance device project a predetermined image. A walking assistance system according to any one of claims 9 to 12.

[0111] (Appendix 14) The method further includes a means for determining a status of a participant (S1122a); The means for guiding the participant controls the production device so as to give the participant a first sensory stimulus when the participant is in the first state. A walking assistance system according to any one of claims 9 to 13.

[0112] (Appendix 15) The first state is when the participant is facing the recommended path. 15. A walking assistance system as described in appendix 14.

[0113] (Appendix 16) The means for guiding the participant guides the participant by controlling the production device to give the participant a second sensory stimulus weaker than the first sensory stimulus when the participant is in the second state. 16. A walking assistance system according to claim 14 or 15.

[0114] (Appendix 17) The computer Determining a recommended route for a participant in a space where the participant can select a route and walk around (S11); Guiding the participants to the recommended route without restricting the participants from entering a non-recommended route that is a route different from the recommended route (S112); A walking support method comprising the steps of:

[0115] (Appendix 18) Computer, A means for determining a recommended route for a participant in a space where the participant can select a route and stroll (S111); A means for guiding participants to a recommended route without restricting the participants from entering a non-recommended route that is a route different from the recommended route (S112). This is a walking support program that functions as a [Explanation of symbols]

[0116] 1: Walking support system 10: Production control device 11:Storage device 12: Processor 13: Input / Output Interface 14: Communication interface 30: Production equipment 50: Status detection device

Claims

1. A program to be executed by a computer having a processor and a memory, The program causes the processor to: receiving history information read from a code issued to the participant, the history information including information about a performance that the participant previously experienced in a space in which the participant can select a path and wander around; determining, based on the history information, a route that allows the participant to have an experience related to a previously selected route or a route that allows the participant to enjoy an unexperienced experience, as a recommended route for the participant; guiding the participant along the recommended path; A program that executes the following.

2. 2. The program according to claim 1, further comprising a step of: issuing said code indicating said history information each time said participant wanders around said space.

3. 3. The program according to claim 1, wherein the code is read by a reader installed at an entrance to the space, at a branching area, or along a path.

4. A method implemented on a computer having a processor and a memory, the processor executing all of the steps performed in any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. 4. An information processing apparatus comprising a control unit and a storage unit, the control unit executing all of the steps executed in the invention according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

6. A system comprising means for executing all the steps performed in any one of claims 1 to 3.

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