Information Processing System

Abstract

To provide an information processing system for managing information on content, configured to reduce the burden of a user in searching for information on intended content.SOLUTION: An information processing system 10 for managing multiple pieces of content information which are pieces of information on content of multiple creators includes: a tag information storage unit 131 which stores a tag which is accessory information added to the content information; tag type information storage unit 132 which stores a tag type which is information indicating a type of the tag; content information storage units 121-124 which store the multiple pieces of content information associated with the tag and the tag type; and retrieval means which executes retrieval, based on the tag and the tag type, for extracting target content information out of the multiple pieces of content information stored on the content information storage units 121-124.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] An embodiment of the present invention relates to an information processing system that manages content information. [Background technology]

[0002] Generally, electronic content is traded online. For example, a content display device has been disclosed that enables a user to quickly use other electronic content related to the electronic content that the user has used after using the electronic content (see Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2016-45902 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, since information about content is managed on various sites, etc., users may have difficulty searching for and finding information about the desired content. For example, if the title of a manga matches the name of a character (e.g., the main character) that appears in the manga, the manga and the character that match the searched word are displayed as search results. If a user who performed a search is looking for information about content related to only either manga or characters, the user must exclude information about content other than the desired content from the search results. An object of the present invention is to provide an information processing system for managing content information that reduces the burden on a user when searching for information on a desired content. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] An information processing system according to an aspect of the present invention is an information processing system that manages multiple content information, which is information related to content of multiple creators, and includes a tag information storage unit that stores tags, which are additional information assigned to the content information, a tag type information storage unit that stores tag types, which are information indicating the type of the tag, a content information storage unit that stores the multiple content information associated with the tags stored in the tag information storage unit and the tag types stored in the tag type information storage unit, and a search means that performs a search to extract desired content information from the multiple content information stored in the content information storage unit based on the tags and the tag types. Effect of the Invention

[0006] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide an information processing system for managing content information that reduces the burden on a user to search for information on a desired content. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0007] [Figure 1] 1 is a configuration diagram showing a configuration of an information processing system according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 2] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration for creating a portfolio site of an information processing system according to a first embodiment. [Diagram 3] 3 is a conceptual diagram showing how tags and tag types are added to images according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is an image diagram showing tags and tag types displayed on a Web screen according to the first embodiment. [Diagram 5] FIG. 2 is an image diagram showing a Web screen for adding tags and tag types according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is an image diagram showing a Web screen for editing a portfolio site according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 13 is an image diagram showing a Web screen on which a search function is implemented in the portfolio site according to the first embodiment. [Figure 8]FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration for searching in an information processing system according to a first embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 4 is an image diagram of a first search screen according to the first embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 11 is an image diagram of a second search screen according to the first embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a configuration diagram showing the configuration of an information processing system according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 12] FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration for performing machine learning in an information processing system according to a second embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a conceptual diagram showing a method for predicting tags and tag types using machine learning according to the second embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0008] (First embodiment) 1 is a configuration diagram showing the configuration of an information processing system 10 according to a first embodiment of the present invention. Note that the same parts in the drawings are given the same reference numerals, and duplicated explanations will be omitted as appropriate.

[0009] The information processing system 10 is a system that manages information related to the content of multiple creators. For example, the information processing system 10 is a system that supports creators in publishing their portfolios. Specifically, the information processing system 10 supports creators in creating portfolio sites. For example, the information processing system 10 displays various editing screens that enable creators to create portfolio sites. Creators use the information processing system 10 to create and publish their own portfolio sites. Users use the information processing system 10 to view the portfolio sites created by each creator and obtain information related to the content.

[0010] The information processing system 10 is mainly composed of a computer. The information processing system 10 may be composed of multiple computers. The information processing system 10 may include one storage device and may be composed of multiple storage devices. The storage device may be a part of the computer or may be a device independent of the computer. Various functions and processes in the information processing system 10 are realized by executing a program on the computer.

[0011] Here, the computer may be of any type. For example, the computer may be of any type, such as a desktop, laptop, or tablet, or may be a mobile phone, such as a smartphone. Also, the storage device may be of any type. For example, the storage device may be a solid-state drive (SSD) or a hard disk drive (HDD).

[0012] The information processing system 10 includes a storage device 1 and a calculation unit 2. The information processing system 10 is connected to a network 3. Creators and users who use the information processing system 10 connect to the information processing system 10 from their own terminals 4a, 4b via the network 3 so as to be able to communicate with the information processing system 10. The creator terminal 4a is a computer used by the creator. The user terminal 4b is a computer used by the user.

[0013] The network 3 may be the Internet, a fixed telephone network, a mobile telephone network, or the like, or may be a combination of these, or may be another communication network. In addition, the creator terminal 4a and the user terminal 4b may be connected to the information processing system 10 so as to be able to communicate with each other without going through the network 3.

[0014] The storage device 1 stores various types of information used in the information processing system 10. Note that some or all of the information in each storage unit constituting the storage device 1 may be organized into a database. Also, the storage device 1 may have any data structure as long as it has a structure in which tags and tag types can be stored.

[0015] The storage device 1 includes a member information area 11, a portfolio area 12, and a tag-related information area 13.

[0016] The member information area 11 is an area in which information about members is stored. Here, the information processing system 10 in which users who use the information processing system 10 are members-only will be described, but as long as it is possible to identify those who access the information processing system 10, the information processing system 10 is not limited to a membership-only system and may apply any system.

[0017] The member information area 11 includes a member information storage unit 111 , a creator information storage unit 112 , a user information storage unit 113 , a portfolio information storage unit 114 , and a search history storage unit 115 .

[0018] The member information storage unit 111 stores member information on members who use the information processing system 10. The member information includes member information and identity verification information. For example, the member information is an account name, etc. Identity verification information is a password for password authentication, or biometric information (fingerprint, etc.) for biometric authentication (fingerprint authentication, etc.). The information processing system 10 determines whether or not a person who has accessed the information processing system 10 is a member, based on the member information. The information processing system 10 also determines whether the accessing member is a creator or a member, based on the member information.

[0019] Creator information storage unit 112 stores creator information about creators who are members. For example, creator information includes personal information. For example, personal information is real name, pen name, contact information, and the like.

[0020] The user information storage unit 113 stores user information about users who are members. The user information includes personal information. For example, the personal information is a real name, a nickname, or contact information.

[0021] The portfolio information storage unit 114 stores portfolio information that forms a portfolio such as the career or achievements of the creator. The portfolio information also includes information about a portfolio site created by the creator. The information processing system 10 discloses information about the creator's content to users via the portfolio site. Note that the site is not limited to a portfolio site, and any site that discloses information about the creator's content to the outside of the information processing system 10 may be used.

[0022] Search conditions used by the user in the past are stored in the search history storage unit 115. The search conditions may be stored automatically based on preset conditions, or may be stored based on an instruction from the user.

[0023] The portfolio area 12 is an area in which information on works, products, fan communities, etc. to be posted as content on the portfolio site is stored. The portfolio area 12 is assigned to each creator. The creator can freely configure the portfolio site.

[0024] The portfolio site may be configured in any manner as long as it is a site that serves as a creator's portfolio. For example, works, products, and fan communities are not all required content for a portfolio site, and the content may be determined arbitrarily by the creator. For example, the portfolio site may be provided with an optional e-commerce (electronic commerce) function. Furthermore, the information processing system 10 may impose restrictions on the content to be posted on the portfolio site. For example, it may be mandatory to post works, products, fan communities, etc. on the portfolio site.

[0025] The portfolio area 12 includes a work information storage unit 121, a product information storage unit 122, a fan community information storage unit 123, and a content storage unit 124. Each piece of information stored in each of the storage units 121 to 124 of the portfolio area 12 is assigned a tag and a tag type.

[0026] Here, a tag is additional information (meta information) that is assigned to a work or a product, etc. A tag type indicates the type of tag and is information that is a higher-level concept of the tag. In other words, the tag type corresponds to the meta information of the tag. By assigning tags and tag types to works, etc., users can easily find the desired work, etc. by searching. For example, if the tag assigned to an image that is a work is "Hero A" and the tag type is "character", this indicates that the image depicts a "character" called "Hero A". For example, types of tags that indicate the tag type include the work name, character name, author name, the status of the character depicted in the work, the source of the work, or the name of a fan community, etc.

[0027] The work information storage unit 121 stores work information related to the creator's work. For example, the work information includes information related to a list of works displayed on the creator's portfolio site. In the work list, tags and tag types are displayed together with information related to each work of the creator (for example, the name of the work or a thumbnail, etc.).

[0028] The product information storage unit 122 stores product information related to the creator's products. For example, the product information includes information about a product list displayed on the creator's portfolio site. In the product list, tags and tag types are displayed along with information about each product of the creator (e.g., the work name or thumbnail, etc.). Users can purchase products from the creator's portfolio site.

[0029] The fan community information storage unit 123 stores fan community information for realizing a fan club function that enables mutual communication between fans. The target of the fan community is fans of the work, fans of the characters appearing in the work, or fans of the creator. Any type of fan community may be set up on the portfolio site, and any number of fan communities may be set up.

[0030] The content storage unit 124 stores content created by creators. For example, the content is a work to be posted on a portfolio site. The content may be any type of content, such as a book, an image, or a video, and may be not limited to a work but may also be a product.

[0031] The tag-related information area 13 is an area in which information about tags and tag types is stored. The tag-related information area 13 includes a tag information storage unit 131 and a tag type information storage unit 132.

[0032] The tag information storage unit 131 stores information about tags. For example, the tag information storage unit 131 may store master data of a database. Specifically, the tag information storage unit 131 stores a unique number (ID, identification data) assigned to a registered tag together with the tag. The information processing system 10 handles the tag by the ID assigned to the tag.

[0033] The tag type information storage unit 132 stores information about tag types. For example, the tag type information storage unit 132 may store master data of a database. Specifically, the tag type information storage unit 132 stores registered tag types together with unique numbers (IDs, identification data) assigned to the tag types. The information processing system 10 handles tag types by the IDs assigned to the tag types. Tag types are registered in advance before the information processing system 10 starts operating, but may be added, changed, or deleted during operation. For example, tag types are registered in the tag type information storage unit 132 by an administrator.

[0034] Each of the storage units 121 to 124 of the portfolio area 12 manages various types of information by referring to the tags and IDs corresponding to the tag types registered in the tag information storage unit 131 and the tag type information storage unit 132.

[0035] The calculation unit 2 is a part that performs calculation processing in the information processing system 10. The functions of the calculation unit 2 are realized by the calculation unit 2 executing calculation processing in accordance with instructions from a program or the like. For example, the calculation unit 2 is a semiconductor chip that performs calculation processing. The calculation unit 2 may be configured in any manner as long as it executes calculation processing that uses the tags and tag types stored in the storage device 1. The calculation unit 2 includes a registration processing unit 21 and a search processing unit 22.

[0036] The registration processing unit 21 is a process executed mainly for the creator to use the information processing system 10. For example, the registration processing unit 21 performs various processes for registering various contents of the creator and supporting the creator in creating a portfolio site.

[0037] The search processing unit 22 is a process executed mainly for a user to use the information processing system 10. For example, the search processing unit 22 performs a process for a user to search for a desired content from among various contents registered in the information processing system 10.

[0038] A method in which a creator creates a portfolio site using the information processing system 10 will be described with reference to Fig. 2. Fig. 2 is a schematic diagram showing a simplified configuration of the information processing system 10 for the purpose of this description.

[0039] The registration processing unit 21 includes an input processing unit 211 , a portfolio creation unit 212 , and an output processing unit 213 .

[0040] The input processing unit 211 processes input information from the creator terminal 4 a used by the creator, and outputs the information to the portfolio formation unit 212 .

[0041] The portfolio creation unit 212 performs processing for creating a portfolio based on the input information processed by the input processing unit 211. For example, the portfolio creation unit 212 performs processing for registering various contents created by the creator in the portfolio. Furthermore, the portfolio creation unit 212 can newly register tags and tag types in order to register various contents. In addition, the portfolio creation unit 212 performs processing for constructing a portfolio site in response to a request from the creator.

[0042] The output processing unit 213 outputs various information to the creator terminal 4a based on the processing results by the portfolio creation unit 212.

[0043] A creator accesses the information processing system 10 through the creator terminal 4a. The creator logs in to the information processing system 10 and creates a portfolio site. Specifically, the creator registers as a member to use the information processing system 10. When the information processing system 10 determines that the logged-in creator is a member based on the member information stored in the member information storage unit 111, it permits the creator terminal 4a to use the information processing system 10. This allows the creator to create his or her own portfolio in the information processing system 10 using the creator terminal 4a.

[0044] A method in which a creator assigns tags and tag types to images C1, C2, and C3 that are his or her own works and stores them in the content storage unit 124 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0045] Here, the first image C1 is an image depicting a character named "Hero A" who appears in a manga titled "Hero A." The second image C2 is an image depicting a character named "Demon King B" who appears in a manga titled "Hero A." The third image C3 is an image depicted on the cover of the 13th volume of the manga titled "Hero A," depicting the characters "Hero A" and "Demon King B" together.

[0046] The creator saves the three images C1 to C3 in the content storage unit 124. The creator registers information relating to each of the three saved images C1 to C3 in the work information storage unit 121. Specifically, the creator assigns a tag and a tag type to each of the three images C1 to C3. The creator assigns two tags to the first image C1: a tag "Hero A" with a tag type of "character", and a tag "Hero A" with a tag type of "work title". In addition, the creator may register any information relating to each of the three images C1 to C3 in the work information storage unit 121.

[0047] A method of displaying tags and tag types will be described with reference to Fig. 4. Fig. 4 shows an example of three types of tags Td1, Td2, and Td3 displayed on a Web (world wide web) screen P1. For example, the Web screen P1 is displayed on a registration screen for a creator to register content or a search screen for a user to search for desired content.

[0048] For the first tag Td1, the tag is displayed in a left column Tg1, and the tag type is displayed in a right column Tg2. A delete button Bm for deleting the tag type is provided in the right column Tg2. When the delete button Bm is pressed, the first tag Td1 becomes a tag without a tag type. That is, the first tag Td1 is displayed like the third tag Td3. For example, the delete button Bm is displayed only on an operation screen operated by the person who added the first tag Td1 (e.g., the creator). This allows only the person who added the first tag Td1 to delete the tag type.

[0049] For the second tag Td2, the tag is displayed in the left column Tg1, and the tag type is displayed in the right column Tg2. Unlike the first tag Td1, the second tag Td2 does not display a delete button Bm. Therefore, it is not possible to delete the tag type from the second tag Td2.

[0050] For the third tag Td3, only the tag is displayed, and the tag type is not displayed. That is, the third tag Td3 is a tag without a tag type. For example, a tag without a tag type is an onomatopoeia, a coined word, a proper noun, or the like.

[0051] A method of assigning tags and tag types on the Web screen P2 will be described with reference to Fig. 5. For example, the Web screen P2 is displayed on a registration screen for a creator to register (upload) content to a portfolio site. Note that, although four methods of assigning tags and tag types will be described here, all of the methods are reference examples, and tags and tag types may be assigned by methods other than these methods.

[0052] For example, the content to which the tag and the tag type are to be added is set in an upper portion (not shown) of the Web screen P2. For example, the creator sets the work to be registered or the name of the work on the Web screen P2.

[0053] The first method is executed by inputting necessary information into the display unit M1. The first method is used when it is desired to specify the genre of the content to be registered in the information processing system 10. The tag type is specified in advance on the display unit M1, and the tag is selected from a list preset in the information processing system 10.

[0054] For example, tags are selected from a list displayed by a pull-down menu. Specifically, if a creator wants to register a manga or illustration as a required content of a portfolio in the information processing system 10, the tag type is fixed and displayed as "category," and only "manga" and "illustration" are displayed in the tag list. This allows the creator to specify and register a manga or illustration as a content of the portfolio.

[0055] The second method is executed by inputting the necessary information into the display unit M2. The second method is used when registering tags without a tag type collectively. The display unit M2 is provided with a text box TB in which multiple tags can be input collectively. The creator inputs the tag names without a tag type to be registered collectively into the text box TB. The multiple tag names entered into the text box TB are separated by symbols such as commas or spaces. This saves the creator the trouble of setting the tag type to "none", making it easy to register multiple tags without a tag type at once.

[0056] The third method is executed by inputting necessary information into input section M32 of display section M3. The third method is used when registering an arbitrary tag. Input section M32 is provided with a section for selecting a tag type and a field for inputting a tag name. Input section M32 is also provided with a button for adding a tag so that multiple tags can be registered. Tag display section M31 of display section M3 displays a tag to be registered. This tag is generated by inputting necessary information into input section M32 up to this point in time.

[0057] For example, the tag type is selected from a list displayed by a pull-down menu. The contents of the list change according to the content to be registered. For example, if the content to be registered is a "work", the list will include a "work name" but not a "product name". Note that it is also possible to register a tag without a tag type by not selecting anything from the list or by selecting "none" from the list and then registering the tag. After selecting a tag type, the desired tag can be generated and registered by entering the tag name.

[0058] The fourth method is a method in which tags and tag types are automatically displayed on the display unit M4. For example, the information processing system 10 can identify the creator to be used when logging in to the information processing system 10. In this way, if the information processing system 10 can identify the tag to be assigned to the content without the creator having to re-enter information related to the tag, the tag is automatically generated. The tag automatically displayed in this way may be made unable to be deleted by the creator. This allows tags (e.g., creator name) that are essential for the portfolio service provided by the information processing system 10 to be automatically assigned.

[0059] A method for creating a portfolio site using tags and tag types will be described with reference to Fig. 6. Fig. 6 shows Web screens P31 and P32 for editing a portfolio site for this description.

[0060] It is assumed here that tags and tag types have already been assigned to all of the content and that the content has been registered as a portfolio. In this case, a method in which the creator edits the configuration of the portfolio site will be described.

[0061] Certain tag types can be used as labels with specific functions, for example the tag type "series" may identify the series to which a work belongs.

[0062] A list equivalent to the table of contents of a portfolio site is displayed in the left column D31 of the Web screen P31. When an item is selected from this list, tags corresponding to the selected item are displayed in the right column D32. For example, when "Series Settings" for "Works" is selected in the left column D31, the titles (tags) of all series of works are displayed in the right column D32.

[0063] When one of the titles in the series displayed in the right column D32 of the Web screen P31 is selected, the Web screen P32 is displayed. In the right column D33 of the Web screen P32, a list of works C31, C32, and C33 belonging to the selected series is displayed. The works C31 to C33 to be displayed are automatically determined by the information processing system 10 based on the tags and tag types assigned to the works.

[0064] The creator can rearrange or delete the displayed works C31 to C33. In addition, the creator may be able to add a work that was not automatically displayed by the information processing system 10 as a work that belongs to this series. This makes it easier for the creator to edit the portfolio site.

[0065] A method for implementing a search function using tags and tag types in a portfolio site will be described with reference to Fig. 7. Fig. 7 is an image diagram of a Web screen for editing the portfolio site.

[0066] To search for tags that have a tag type, a search function that can narrow down searches using the tag type is required. Such a search function can be modularized. By modularizing it, creators can incorporate the search function at any position on their portfolio site.

[0067] The left column D41 of the Web screen P4 displays the parts that make up one page (screen) of the portfolio site. By selecting one part from the left column D41 and placing (dropping) it anywhere in the right column D42, the function corresponding to the selected part is implemented.

[0068] Here, the search part is a part that modularizes the search function, the work display part is a part that displays works on the screen, and the product display part is a part that displays products on the screen.

[0069] If a search part is placed in location PS1, outside the range of the work display parts and product display parts, a search will be performed on all content, regardless of whether it is work or product. If a search part is placed in location PS2, within the range of the product display parts, a search will be performed on products only. In other words, it is possible to perform a narrowed-down search for products. Similarly, by placing a search part in a specific location, it is possible to implement a function for narrowing down searches for specific targets, such as works or fan communities.

[0070] A method in which a user searches within a portfolio site using the information processing system 10 will be described with reference to Fig. 8. Fig. 8 is a schematic diagram showing a simplified configuration of the information processing system 10 for the purpose of this description.

[0071] The search processing unit 22 includes an input processing unit 221 , a search target determination unit 222 , a search target extraction unit 223 , and an output processing unit 224 .

[0072] The input processing unit 221 processes input information indicating search conditions from the user terminal 4b used by the user, and outputs the information to the search target determination unit 222. The input processing unit 221 also performs processing for displaying a screen for inputting search conditions on the user terminal 4b.

[0073] The search target determination unit 222 determines the search target based on the input information processed by the input processing unit 211. For example, when the tag "Demon King B" of the tag type "character", the tag "Hero A" of the tag type "work title", and the tag "illustration" of the tag type "category" are specified as search conditions, the search target determination unit 222 determines an "illustration" of a character "Demon King B" who appears in content of the work title "Hero A" as the search target. The search target determination unit 222 outputs the determined search target to the search target extraction unit 223.

[0074] The search target extraction unit 223 searches for content matching the search target determined by the search target determination unit 222 from among the content registered as a portfolio, and extracts information about the content matching the search target. The search target extraction unit 223 outputs the extracted information to the output processing unit 224.

[0075] The output processing unit 224 performs processing for outputting the search results to the user terminal 4b based on the information extracted by the search target extraction unit 223.

[0076] A user accesses the information processing system 10 through the user terminal 4b. The user logs in to the information processing system 10 to view the portfolio site of each creator. Specifically, the user registers as a member to use the information processing system 10. When the information processing system 10 determines that the logged-in user is a member based on the member information stored in the member information storage unit 111, it permits the user terminal 4b to use the information processing system 10. This allows the user to view the portfolio site of any creator registered in the information processing system 10 using the user terminal 4b.

[0077] A user performs a search to find a desired content. The search range may be the portfolio sites of all creators, or may be the portfolio site of a specific creator. For example, when the search range is the portfolio sites of all creators, a search function capable of searching within such a search range is provided on a Web screen created by the administrator of the information processing system 10.

[0078] A method for displaying a search screen will be described with reference to Figures 9 and 10. Figures 9 and 10 are image diagrams of the search screen.

[0079] Screen D52 is an input screen for executing a simple search. In a simple search, only tags are specified as search conditions, and tag types are not specified. A user enters search keywords in input field F1 of screen D52 to execute a search. Here, tags as search conditions correspond to search keywords in general searches. Therefore, a user can perform a search without being aware of tags. Screen D52 may be the initial state of a search screen. Screen D52 has few search conditions to be specified, so the display area can be made small. Furthermore, with a simple search, a user does not need to determine detailed search conditions, so a search can be easily performed.

[0080] The screen D53 is an input screen for performing an advanced search. In an advanced search, a search is performed by specifying a tag and a tag type. The screen D53 includes an input field F1 for inputting a search keyword, and buttons for multiple tag types for specifying as narrowing conditions. The user inputs a search keyword in the input field F1, and presses (e.g., clicks) the button for the tag type to be specified to perform a search. A plurality of tag types may be specified in a search. Note that, instead of the button for specifying the tag type, an input field for the user to input the tag type may be provided, similar to the input field F1 for the search keyword. The screen D52 for simple search and the screen D53 for advanced search may be mutually switchable by the user.

[0081] The search is not limited to the above, and any search conditions may be set. For example, the order in which the search results are displayed may be specified, such as by popularity or by posting date.

[0082] The search results of an advanced search are equivalent to search results that use tags as search keywords and are then narrowed down by tag type. For example, suppose you specify "Hero A" as the search keyword and "character" as the tag type in the narrowing conditions and perform a search. In this case, images depicting "Hero A" as a character will be included in the search results, but images that do not depict "Hero A" as a character, even if they are images from a work with the title "Hero A," will not be included in the search results. In other words, content in which "Hero A" is not treated as a "character" will not be included in the search results.

[0083] Screen D51 is a screen that displays the search results from a simple search or a detailed search. Screen D51 is provided with a save button B51 for saving the search conditions, and an additional conditions button B52 for specifying additional search conditions. Information about content that matches the search conditions is displayed as the search results at the bottom of screen D51.

[0084] When the user presses the save button B51, the search conditions of the displayed search results are saved. For example, the user saves the search conditions when satisfactory search results are obtained. As shown in screen D55, the saved search conditions are displayed as suggested search conditions when the user focuses on input field F1 (for example, when the cursor is moved near input field F1) during subsequent searches. The user may be allowed to call up the saved search conditions at any time. In addition, the user may be allowed to save the search conditions before a search.

[0085] When the user presses the additional conditions button B52, screen D54 is displayed. Using screen D54, the user can add new search conditions to the search conditions of the current search results and perform an additional search. For example, an additional search is an AND search or an exclusion search. An AND search is a search performed by adding a new search keyword to the current search keywords using AND (logical AND). An exclusion search is a search performed by adding an exclusion word to the current search conditions. An exclusion search excludes content containing the exclusion word from the exclusion results. By performing an additional search, the current search results can be narrowed down.

[0086] Although the screen D51 is the detailed search screen D53 to which a screen for displaying search results has been added, this is not limiting. For example, the screen D51 may display only the search results. Also, the screen for displaying the search results of a simple search may be the simple search screen D52 to which a screen for displaying search results has been added.

[0087] According to this embodiment, the information processing system 10 associates a tag having a tag type with the content and manages information related to the content, thereby making it easier to find the desired content by searching. For example, when the information processing system 10 provides a service of providing a portfolio site of a creator, even if a portfolio site with a completely different configuration is created for each creator, it is possible to easily find the desired content by searching from the portfolio sites of all creators. In addition, by narrowing down the search by tag type, it is possible to easily exclude content that is not desired to be included in the search results. This improves the convenience of the user who uses the information processing system 10.

[0088] Second Embodiment FIG. 11 is a configuration diagram showing the configuration of an information processing system 10A according to the second embodiment.

[0089] The information processing system 10A is obtained by replacing the calculation unit 2 with a calculation unit 2A and replacing the storage device 1 with a storage device 1A in the information processing system 10 according to the first embodiment shown in FIG. 1. The calculation unit 2A is obtained by adding a machine learning unit 23 to the calculation unit 2 according to the first embodiment. The storage device 1A is obtained by adding a trained model storage unit 14 to the storage device 1 according to the first embodiment. Other points are similar to those of the first embodiment.

[0090] The information processing system 10A performs machine learning to predict tags and tag types for any content. A prediction model (trained model) created by machine learning is used to improve the convenience of creators or users who use the information processing system 10A.

[0091] A method in which a creator registers new content as a portfolio in the information processing system 10 will be described with reference to Fig. 12. Fig. 12 is a schematic diagram simply illustrating a configuration for performing machine learning in the information processing system 10A for the purpose of this description.

[0092] The machine learning unit 23 performs machine learning using the information stored in the memories 121-124 of the portfolio area 12 and the memories 131-132 of the tag-related information area 13 as learning data. A prediction model generated by machine learning is stored in the trained model memory unit 14. The machine learning by the machine learning unit 23 may be performed automatically based on settings of the information processing system 10A, or may be performed at any timing by the operator of the information processing system 10A.

[0093] The calculation unit 2A includes an image analysis unit 214 and a data processing unit 215 in the registration processing unit 21. For example, the image analysis unit 214 and the data processing unit 215 configure a part of the portfolio creation unit 212.

[0094] The image analysis unit 214 analyzes an image input from the creator terminal 4a to be registered as content by the creator. Specifically, the image analysis unit 214 analyzes the image data input from the input processing unit 211 using the prediction model stored in the trained model storage unit 14. The image analysis unit 214 predicts tags and tag types for the image by analyzing the image data. The image analysis unit 214 outputs the analysis result to the data processing unit 215.

[0095] The data processing unit 215 performs data processing for outputting data related to the predicted tag and tag type for the image to the creator terminal 4a based on the analysis result by the image analysis unit 214. The data processing unit 215 outputs the data related to the predicted tag and tag type to the creator terminal 4a via the output processing unit 213. Note that the data processing unit 215 may automatically assign the predicted tag and tag type to the image.

[0096] The creator decides the tag and tag type to be assigned to the content to be registered, using the predicted tag and tag type received from the calculation unit 2A of the information processing system 10A as one of the candidates. For example, the creator determines whether the predicted tag and tag type are suitable as the tag and tag type to be assigned to the content to be registered. The creator may modify the predicted tag and tag type and assign it to the content to be registered.

[0097] A method for predicting tags and tag types using machine learning will be described with reference to Fig. 13. Fig. 13 is a conceptual diagram for this description.

[0098] A learning data group DLG is prepared for machine learning by the machine learning unit 23. Each of the learning data DL1, DL2, DL3, DL4, and DL5 in the learning data group DLG is content to which tags and tag types are added and which are stored in the storage units 121 to 124 of the portfolio area 12. Here, the learning data DL1 to DL5 will be described as images.

[0099] The machine learning unit 23 performs machine learning using the learning data DL1 to DL5, and generates a prediction model MD that predicts a tag and a tag type from an arbitrary image. The prediction model MD is used to predict the tag and the tag type of a newly registered image CT.

[0100] The image in the first learning data DL1 is assigned the tag "Hero A in Trouble" of the tag type "Situation" and the tag "Volume 10" of the tag type "Source". The image in the second learning data DL2 is given the tag "Demon King B" of the tag type "character." The image in the third learning data DL3 is given the tag "Hero A" of the tag type "Title of Work." The image in the fourth learning data DL4 is assigned the tag "Hero A" of the tag type "None," the tag "Yamada X" of the tag type "Author," and the tag "Weekly Z" of the tag type "Serialized magazine."

[0101] The image of the fifth learning data DL5 is assigned the tag "Sun God" of the tag type "Character" and the tag "Hero A" of the tag type "Title of Work".

[0102] When the image CT to be registered is an image that combines images of five pieces of learning data DL1, the tag type and tag assigned to each of the five pieces of learning data DL1 are presented as the prediction result TR using the prediction model MD.

[0103] Here, the method of using the prediction of tag types and tags using the prediction model generated by machine learning to improve the convenience of creators has been described, but it may also be used to improve the convenience of users. For example, when a user inputs search conditions, tags and tag types predicted by the prediction model from content previously searched by the user may be displayed so as to be suggested to the user. In addition, the prediction model generated by machine learning may be applied to any function in the information processing system 10. Furthermore, an API (application programming interface) for image analysis that predicts tags and tag types may be created based on the prediction model. This makes it possible to provide an API that predicts tags and tag types outside the information processing system 10. Therefore, an API that predicts tags and tag types can be easily implemented in a computer outside the information processing system 10.

[0104] According to this embodiment, in addition to the advantageous effects of the first embodiment, the convenience of creators or users who use the information processing system 10 can be improved by predicting tag types and tags using a predictive model generated by machine learning.

[0105] However, additional advantages and modifications may readily occur to those skilled in the art. Therefore, the invention in its broader aspects is not limited to the specific detailed representative embodiments shown and described herein. Accordingly, various modifications may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the general inventive concept as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents. [Explanation of symbols]

[0106] 1... storage device, 2... calculation unit, 3... network, 11... membership information area, 12... portfolio area, 13... tag related information area, 111... membership information storage unit, 112... creator information storage unit, 113... user information storage unit, 114... portfolio information storage unit, 115... search history storage unit, 121... work information storage unit, 122... product information storage unit, 123... fan community information storage unit, 124... content storage unit, 131... tag information storage unit, 132... tag type information storage unit.

Claims

1. An information processing system for managing a plurality of pieces of content information, which is information about the content of a plurality of creators who create manga or illustrations and which is published via the portfolio sites of the respective creators, comprising: a site creation processing means for performing a process to support the creator in creating his / her portfolio site; a portfolio information storage unit that stores portfolio information regarding a portfolio including the portfolio site of each of the plurality of creators; a tag information storage unit that stores tags, which are supplementary information added to the content information; a tag type information storage unit that stores a tag type, which is information indicating a type of the tag; a content information storage unit that stores the plurality of pieces of content information associated with the tags stored in the tag information storage unit, the tag types stored in the tag type information storage unit, and the portfolio information stored in the portfolio information storage unit; and a search means for executing a search for extracting a target piece of content information from among the plurality of pieces of content information stored in the content information storage unit, based on the tag and the tag type, or based on the tag, the tag type, and the portfolio site of the portfolio information; An information processing system comprising:

2. a registration processing means for performing a process of registering the content information so as to manage the content information in the information processing system; a tag-related information designation means for designating the tag and the tag type associated with the content information registered by the registration processing means in order to register the content information; 2. The information processing system according to claim 1, further comprising:

3. A machine learning means for performing machine learning to generate a prediction model for predicting the tag and the tag type associated with any content information, using the plurality of content information stored in the content information storage unit as learning data.

2. The information processing system according to claim 1, further comprising:

4. a registration processing means for performing a process of registering the content information so as to manage the content information in the information processing system; a tag-related information designation unit that designates the tag and the tag type associated with the content information to be registered by the registration processing unit in order to register the content information; 4. The information processing system according to claim 3, further comprising:

5. The tag-related information designation means designates the tag and the tag type predicted by the prediction model generated by the machine learning means.

5. The information processing system according to claim 4, further comprising:

6. a tag-related information candidate means for setting the tag and the tag type predicted by the prediction model generated by the machine learning means as candidates for the tag and the tag type to be specified by the tag-related information specification means; 5. The information processing system according to claim 4, further comprising:

7. An application programming interface created based on the prediction model generated by the machine learning means is implemented in a computer external to the information processing system.

4. The information processing system according to claim 3,

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