Server system and control method for server system

Abstract

To provide a technique pertaining to a prize acquisition device for increasing attraction for attracting a user and increasing profit by it.SOLUTION: A prize acquisition device has a prize situation photographing camera and a depth sensor as data acquisition means for determining an arrangement situation of a prize in a play space. From a photographed image of the prize situation photographing camera and a measurement result of the depth sensor, and from the arrangement situation of a prize, a prize that can be acquired easily is predicted, and it is regarded that a predetermined notification condition is satisfied when a prize concerned is found, and a notification state display (a specification display of an acquirable prize, a guide display of movement operation of a crane part, a hint display, or the like) is overlappingly displayed with a live monitor image displayed on a user terminal for inputting remote operation. When an acquirable prize is recognized, play compensation or the like is changed.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 7

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a remote operation system for remotely operating a prize acquisition device. The server system and the like.

Background Art

[0002] When playing on a business-use game device, it is necessary to go to a store or facility such as a game center to play. However, in recent years, due to the development of network technology and the improvement of the functions of user terminals represented by smartphones, a technology for remotely operating a business-use game device via a network and playing is being put into practical use.

[0003] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a technology that enables a prize acquisition device, which is a type of business-use game device called a "crane game machine," to be remotely operated and played.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] An operator who operates a system that allows a user to remotely operate a prize acquisition device to acquire a prize always desires measures to improve the attractiveness of attracting users and the resulting increase in revenue.

[0006] The present invention was devised for the purpose of providing a technology that can meet the demands of such operators.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0007] A first invention for solving the above-described problems is A remote operation system that remotely operates, using a user terminal as a play device, a prize acquisition device capable of remote operation play for moving a crane unit, wherein a camera for photographing a play space is installed in the prize acquisition device. Monitor image display control means (for example, control board 1150 in FIG. 9, server processing unit 200s, game management unit 230, monitor image display control unit 233, step S112 in FIG. 21) for displaying a monitor image based on a photographed image of the camera on a display unit of the user terminal. Determination means (for example, control board 1150 in FIG. 9, server processing unit 200s, prediction unit 210, step S14 in FIG. 17) for determining whether or not a predetermined notification condition based on the arrangement status of prizes in the play space is satisfied. Notification state display control means (for example, control board 1150 in FIG. 9, server processing unit 200s, notification state display control unit 235, step S116 in FIG. 21) for setting the display of the monitor image to a notification state display when a positive determination is made by the determination means. A remote operation system comprising:

[0008] The "crane unit" mentioned here is a mechanism unit in the prize acquisition device that can be moved to acquire the position of the prize, and forms such as "grasping", "scooping", "hooking", "adsorbing", etc. are conceivable, and it can be said that it is a mechanism unit that engages with the prize in some form.

[0009] According to the first invention, it is possible to determine the arrangement status of prizes in the play space and, when a predetermined notification condition is satisfied, perform a display indicating that the notification condition is satisfied on the remote operation screen. By appropriately combining and setting the notification condition and the content of the notification state display, it is possible to provide appropriate information to the user according to the prize arrangement status, so that the attractiveness of the game can be enhanced more than before.

[0010] The second invention is the remote operation system of the first invention, wherein the notification condition includes at least an improvement status condition defined as a condition indicating that the ease of movement and / or the acquirability of the prize is in an improved state.

[0011] According to the second invention, it is possible to inform the user that the mobility and / or acquirability of the prize is improved.

[0012] According to the third invention, the improvement situation condition includes a condition for stepwise determination of the improved situation, and when it is determined by the determination means that the notification condition is satisfied by satisfying the improvement situation condition, the notification state display control means performs control to set different said notification state displays according to which of the stepwise determination conditions is satisfied. It is a remote operation system of the second invention.

[0013] According to the third invention, since control is performed to stepwise determine the improved situation and perform a notification state display corresponding to the step, the user can stepwise and easily recognize the degree of the improved situation.

[0014] According to the fourth invention, in the prize acquisition device, a prize acquisition area is set, and the improvement situation condition includes at least a condition related to the distance between the prize and the prize acquisition area. It is a remote operation system of any one of the second or third inventions.

[0015] According to the fourth invention, it is possible to determine the improved situation according to the distance between the prize and the prize acquisition area.

[0016] According to the fifth invention, the improvement situation condition includes at least a condition related to the arrangement posture of the prize. It is a remote operation system of the second to fourth inventions.

[0017] According to the fifth invention, it is possible to determine the improved situation based on the arrangement posture of the prize.

[0018] According to the sixth invention, the notification condition includes at least a condition related to the number of the prizes in the play space. It is a remote operation system of the first to fifth inventions.

[0019] According to the sixth invention, it is possible to determine whether the notification conditions are satisfied based on the number of prizes arranged in the play space.

[0020] The seventh invention is a remote control system according to any one of the first to sixth inventions, wherein the determination means determines whether the arrangement situation satisfying the notification conditions is present based on the captured image of the camera.

[0021] According to the seventh invention, it is possible to determine whether the notification conditions are satisfied based on an image obtained by photographing the actual state of the prizes arranged in the play space.

[0022] The eighth invention is a remote control system according to any one of the first to seventh inventions, wherein the notification state display control means performs the notification state display by applying a given overlapping display to the monitor image.

[0023] According to the eighth invention, it is possible to provide a notification state display that is easy for the user to understand or notice by overlapping and displaying information or a display body on the monitor image.

[0024] The ninth invention is a remote control system according to the eighth invention, wherein the notification state display control means performs control to apply the overlapping display that clarifies the prize in the arrangement situation satisfying the notification conditions.

[0025] According to the ninth invention, it is possible to clarify to the user the prize in the arrangement situation satisfying the notification conditions.

[0026] The 10th invention is an AR box in which the prize has an AR marker indicated on the outer surface as the prize marker, and AR image display control means (for example, the control board 1150 in FIG. 9, the server processing unit 200s, the AR image display control unit 234, step S112 in FIG. 21) for displaying an image based on the AR marker on the AR box in the monitor image, and the notification state display control means performs the overlap display by changing the image based on the AR marker, which is a remote operation system of either the 8th or 9th invention.

[0027] According to the 10th invention, when using an AR box as a prize, it becomes possible to display an image according to the prize arrangement situation on the AR box.

[0028] The 11th invention is a remote operation system of any one of the 1st to 10th inventions, further comprising play price setting means (for example, the control board 1150 in FIG. 9, the server processing unit 200s, the prediction post-processing unit 220, the play price setting unit 222, step S62 in FIG. 19) for variably setting the play price for each prize acquisition play by the remote operation according to the determination result of the determination means.

[0029] According to the 11th invention, the play price can be changed according to the arrangement situation of the prize.

[0030] The 12th invention is a remote operation system of any one of the 1st to 11th inventions, further comprising restriction time setting means (for example, the control board 1150 in FIG. 9, the server processing unit 200s, the prediction post-processing unit 220, the restriction time setting unit 224, step S62 in FIG. 19) for variably setting the restriction time according to the determination result of the determination means, where the movement operation of the crane unit in the remote operation play needs to be performed within a given restriction time.

[0031] According to the 12th invention, the restriction time for the movement operation of the crane unit can be changed according to the arrangement situation of the prize.

[0032] Note that the hardware form of the remote operation system can adopt a configuration suitable for the communication form between the user terminal and the play device and the system design.

[0033] For example, if the user terminal and the play device are directly communicatively connected and the user terminal performs remote operation, as the 13th invention, the remote operation system can be configured by the remote operation system of any one of the 1st to 12th inventions configured in the user terminal.

[0034] Also, when the game is configured as an on-line game of the client-server type, for example, as the 14th invention, the remote operation system can be configured by the remote operation system of any one of the 1st to 12th inventions configured by a computer system that controls the user terminal.

[0035] The 15th invention is the remote operation system of the 14th invention, in which the desired user recruitment control means accepts the application amount of the play consideration for the remote operation play applied by each user who desires the remote operation play, and the play order determination means determines the order of the users who perform the remote operation play based on the application amount.

[0036] According to the 15th invention, it becomes possible to individually accept the application amount of the play consideration when recruiting users who want to play with a prize acquisition device that satisfies the notification condition of the prize arrangement situation, and set the play order of the users who applied based on each application amount.

[0037] The 16th invention is a program for remotely operating, using a user terminal as a play device, a prize acquisition device capable of remote play that attempts to acquire a prize placed in a play space by moving a crane unit. A camera for photographing the play space is installed in the prize acquisition device, and there are monitor image display control means for displaying a monitor image based on the photographed image of the camera on a display unit of the user terminal, determination means for determining whether or not a predetermined notification condition based on the arrangement status of the prize in the play space is satisfied, and notification state display control means for setting the display of the monitor image as a notification state display when a positive determination is made by the determination means. It is a program for causing the user terminal to function as such.

[0038] According to the 16th invention, a function that exhibits the same effect as the 1st invention can be realized on a user terminal.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0039]

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Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0040] Hereinafter, an example of an embodiment of the present invention will be described. However, it goes without saying that the applicable forms of the present invention are not limited to the following embodiments.

[0041] [First Embodiment] First, as a first embodiment to which the present invention is applied, an example of realizing a net crane game in which a prize acquisition device is remotely operated using a user terminal will be described.

[0042] [Explanation of Hardware Configuration] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a configuration example of the prize acquisition system of this embodiment. The prize acquisition system 1000 is a game system for a game in which a user selects a desired prize (desired prize) from among a plurality of types of prizes prepared in advance and remotely operates a prize acquisition device capable of acquiring the desired prize to aim for prize acquisition.

[0043] The prize acquisition system 1000 includes a server system 1100, a plurality of prize acquisition devices 1200 (1200a, 1200b,...), and user terminals 1500 (1500a, 1500b,...) used separately for each user 2 (2a, 2b,...). These are connected so as to be capable of data communication via a communication line 9 with each other.

[0044] The communication line 9 means a communication path capable of data communication, that is, a so-called network. That is, the communication line 9 includes not only a dedicated line (dedicated cable) for direct connection and a LAN (Local Area Network) such as Ethernet (registered trademark), but also a communication network such as a telephone communication network, a cable network, and the Internet, and the communication method is not limited to wired / wireless.

[0045] The number of users 2 (2a, 2b,...) and their user terminals 1500 (1500a, 1500b,...) varies depending on the usage status of the prize acquisition system 1000. Therefore, in actual operation, the prize acquisition system 1000 may have only two user terminals 1500 connected as shown in the figure, may have only one connected at the same time, or may have three or more connected.

[0046] The operator device 3 includes a server system 1100 and prize acquisition devices 1200 (1200a, 1200b,...), and is prepared by the operator of the prize acquisition system 1000. The number of each of the server system 1100 and the prize acquisition devices 1200 is not limited to the illustrated example and can be set as appropriate. The installation locations of the server system 1100 and each of the prize acquisition devices 1200 (1200a, 1200b,...) are not limited to the same location.

[0047] The server system 1100 is a computer system that provides information about the prize acquisition devices 1200 (1200a, 1200b,...) to the user terminal 1500 that constitutes the remote operation system in the present embodiment. It has a main body device 1101, a keyboard 1106, a touch panel 1108, and a storage 1140, and a control board 1150 is mounted on the main body device 1101.

[0048] The control board 1150 is equipped with various microprocessors such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 1151, a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), and a DSP (Digital Signal Processor), various IC memories 1152 such as VRAM, RAM, and ROM, and a communication device 1153. Note that part or all of the control board 1150 may be realized by an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), or a SoC (System on a Chip).

[0049] And the server system 1100, by performing arithmetic processing based on a predetermined program and data by the control board 1150, 1) A user management function related to user registration and the like, and 2) An information providing function that provides data necessary for User 2 to play a remote operation game on the user terminal 1500 (for example, information about the prize acquisition device 1200 such as which types of prizes can be acquired by which prize acquisition device 1200, access information related to communication for remotely operating the prize acquisition device 1200 selected by the user terminal 1500 according to the user's selection operation, etc.), 3) An online shopping management function that online sells the value media consumed as the play price of the prize acquisition device 1200, are realized.

[0050] Also, in this embodiment, since the crane game as an online game is realized as a client - server type online game, the server system 1100 functions as a computer system that controls the user terminal 1500. Specifically, when a screen for remote operation is displayed on the user terminal 1500 and an operation input signal corresponding to an operation input is received from the user terminal 1500, a remote operation signal is transmitted to the prize acquisition device 1200 that is remotely operated by the user terminal 1500, and the remote operation play function can be realized.

[0051] Although the server system 1100 is described as a single unit, it may be configured to include a plurality of blade servers that share each function and are connected to be data - communicable with each other via an internal bus. Alternatively, a configuration may be adopted in which a plurality of independent servers installed at separate locations perform data communication via the communication line 9 so as to function as the server system 1100 as a whole.

[0052] The prize acquisition device 1200 (1200a, 1200b,...) is a game device in which User 2 attempts to move and acquire a prize housed in the housing by remotely operating the acquisition mechanism unit. In this embodiment, as the prize acquisition device 1200, a plurality of types of prize acquisition devices are prepared in which at least one of the operation method, the configuration of the acquisition mechanism unit, and the prize arrangement method (arrangement pattern) is different.

[0053] Note that among the prize acquisition devices 1200 of the present embodiment, there may be included a device in which a substitute prize, which is an object that substitutes for the prize itself and is different from the prize itself to be acquired by the device, is the object to be acquired. For example, the substitute prize is a general-purpose object such as a simple box on which the image or name of the product is not printed on the appearance.

[0054] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a configuration example of the prize acquisition device 1200 in the present embodiment, which corresponds to a front view of the device. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a configuration example of the prize acquisition device 1200 in the present embodiment, which corresponds to a side view seen from the right side toward the front of the device.

[0055] The prize acquisition device 1200 performs a game play that attempts to move a prize (real article) arranged in the game space, and when the prize cannot be acquired, the arrangement state of the prize as a result of the attempted movement is maintained and provided for the next game play.

[0056] The prize acquisition device 1200 of the present embodiment 1) a housing 1201, 2) a crane unit 1210, 3) a plurality of video cameras 1220 (first video camera 1220f, second video camera 1220s) that photograph the housing 1201 from the outside to obtain an image for the user to confirm the arrangement state of the prize, 4) a prize situation photographing camera 1230 (first prize situation photographing camera 1230f, second prize situation photographing camera 1230s) that is a first means for obtaining information for determining the arrangement state of the prize, 5) a depth sensor 1240 (first depth sensor 1240f, second depth sensor 1240s) that is a second means for obtaining information for determining the arrangement state of the prize, 6) and a control board 1250 that controls the operation of the prize acquisition device 1200.

[0057] The housing 1201 defines a play space 1202 covered with a transparent partition so that the inside can be seen from the outside, and houses one or more prizes 4 that can be obtained in the apparatus and a crane unit 1210 that is an acquisition mechanism unit in the play space. Note that the transparent partition may be omitted.

[0058] The crane unit 1210 is a mechanism unit that can move the prize 4. The configuration of the mechanism unit can be appropriately selected. The crane unit 1210 in the present embodiment is designed to function as a crane that is positioned by two-dimensionally moving the play space 1202 in the "first direction" which is the left-right direction of the apparatus and the "second direction" which is the front-rear direction of the apparatus. And the crane unit 1210 suspends a plurality of movable arms (hereinafter also referred to as "claws 1212") that move in an opening and closing manner, and functions as a crane that can pick up and move a part of the prize 4.

[0059] The structure of the crane unit 1210 can be appropriately set with reference to that of a conventional crane game machine. In the present embodiment, inside a case provided at the lowermost part of a lifting shaft portion suspended by a two-dimensional linear motion mechanism unit 1218, there are mounted a claw 1212, an electric motor that operates the claw 1212 to open and close according to a drive signal from a control board 1250, and a gripping force changing mechanism unit that changes the gripping force of the prize 4 by the claw 1212. In the present embodiment, the first direction which is one moving direction of the two-dimensional linear motion mechanism unit 1218 faces the left-right direction of the apparatus, and the second direction which is the other moving direction faces the front-rear direction of the apparatus.

[0060] The first video camera 1220f captures a color video of the play space 1202 from the front side of the device. In this embodiment, the shooting direction of the first video camera 1220f is attached so as to face the second direction of the two-dimensional linear movement mechanism unit 1218. However, it may be set so as to slightly intersect the second direction, for example, to pseudo-reproduce the visual field when the player stands in front of the device and looks down at the play space 1202 slightly. The shooting angle of view is fixed and is installed and fixed at a predetermined position so as to include the entire width movable range of the crane unit 1210 in the first direction by the two-dimensional linear movement mechanism unit 1218 in the shooting range.

[0061] Similarly, the second video camera 1220s captures the play space 1202 from the right side toward the front of the device. In this embodiment, the shooting direction of the second video camera 1220s is attached so as to face the first direction of the two-dimensional linear movement mechanism unit 1218. However, it may be set so as to slightly intersect the first direction. The shooting angle of view is fixed and is installed and fixed at a predetermined position so as to include the entire width movable range of the crane unit 1210 in the second direction by the two-dimensional linear movement mechanism unit 1218 in the shooting range.

[0062] In this embodiment, since the net crane game is realized as an online game of the client-server type, the images (captured images) captured by the first video camera 1220f and the second video camera 1220s are transmitted to the server system 1100 without delay (including a state with no delay and a slight delay recognized as having little influence on the play). And it is displayed as the live monitor image 38 on the user terminal 1500. The user 2 (player) can observe the state of the play space 1202 necessary for game play while being far away by this live monitor image 38.

[0063] Note that the number of video cameras 1220, the installation position, the shooting angle, etc. are not limited to the illustrated examples and can be set as appropriate. For example, a configuration in which the video camera 1220 is provided inside the play space 1202 is also possible. Also, the transparent partition that defines the play space 1202 may not be used.

[0064] The prize situation photographing camera 1230 is a camera that can photograph the play space 1202 as a color video. In the present embodiment, it includes a first prize situation photographing camera 1230f that photographs so as to face the second direction of the two-dimensional linear motion mechanism unit 1218, and a second prize situation photographing camera 1230s that photographs so as to face the first direction of the two-dimensional linear motion mechanism unit 1218. The photographed images of each prize situation photographing camera 1230 are used for spatial recognition of the play space 1202, specifically, image recognition of the prize 4 in the play space 1202.

[0065] The depth sensor 1240 is a distance sensor that scans the play space 1202. In the present embodiment, it includes a first depth sensor 1240f that measures (two-dimensional scan) the distance to the photographed subject in the second direction of the two-dimensional linear motion mechanism unit 1218 as seen from the sensor (depth in the sensing direction), and a second depth sensor 1240s that measures the distance to the photographed subject in the first direction of the two-dimensional linear motion mechanism unit 1218 as seen from the sensor. The measurement of each depth sensor 1240 is used for spatial recognition of the play space 1202, specifically, recognition of the prize 4 in the play space 1202.

[0066] The control board 1250 is equipped with various processors such as a CPU 1251, GPU, and DSP, various IC memories 1252 such as VRAM, RAM, and ROM, a communication module 1253 for wireless communication with a mobile phone base station or a wireless LAN base station connected to the communication line 9, an interface circuit 1257, etc. The interface circuit 1257 includes a driver circuit of the crane unit 1210, a circuit for inputting image data of images photographed by the video camera 1220 and the prize situation photographing camera 1230, a circuit for inputting the measurement signal measured by the depth sensor 1240, etc. Then, the prize acquisition device 1200 can perform operation control of the crane unit 1210 by the control board 1250 performing arithmetic processing based on a predetermined program and data.

[0067] In this embodiment, the prize acquisition device 1200 is remotely operated by the user terminal 1500 via the server system 1100. When the user 2 who has become a player successfully operates the crane unit 1210 and moves the target prize 4 to the prize acquisition area 1260 set within the play space 1202, it is determined that the prize has been acquired, and the acquired prize 4 is delivered to the delivery destination preset by the player.

[0068] Note that in this embodiment, the prize acquisition area 1260 is a virtual area that is identified and displayed on the operation screen of the user terminal 1500, but it may also be a physical opening that communicates with the payout opening 1262 on the front of the housing 1201. In that case, it is advisable to provide a prize acquisition number detection sensor 1266 that can individually detect the passing prize 4 in the communication path 1264 between the prize acquisition area 1260 and the payout opening 1262. Specifically, if an IC tag carrying information on the prize type is attached to the prize 4 and the prize acquisition number detection sensor 1266 is realized as an IC tag reader / writer, it is possible to detect not only the number of acquired prizes but also the types of acquired prizes even when various types of prizes are mixed.

[0069] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a configuration example of the user terminal 1500 in this embodiment. The user terminal 1500 is a computer system individually used by the user 2 who has become a player for game play, and is an electronic device (electronic equipment) that can access the server system 1100 via the communication line 9 and execute an online game. The user terminal 1500 in this embodiment is a device called a so-called smartphone, but it may also be a portable game device, a game controller, a personal computer, a tablet computer, a wearable computer, an industrial game device, or the like.

[0070] The user terminal 1500 includes a direction input key 1502, a button switch 1504, a touch panel 1506 that functions as an image display device and a contact position input device, a built-in battery 1509, a speaker 1510, a microphone 1512, an image sensor unit 1520, a control board 1550, and a memory card reader 1542 capable of reading and writing data from a memory card 1540 which is a computer-readable storage medium. In addition, a power button, a volume adjustment button, etc. (not shown) are provided.

[0071] The control board 1550 is equipped with various processors such as a CPU 1551, a GPU, and a DSP, various IC memories 1552 such as VRAM, RAM, and ROM, a wireless communication module 1553 for wireless communication with a mobile phone base station, a wireless LAN base station, etc. connected to the communication line 9, an interface circuit 1557, etc.

[0072] The interface circuit 1557 includes a driver circuit for the touch panel 1506, a circuit for receiving signals from the direction input key 1502 and the button switch 1504, an output amplifier circuit for outputting an audio signal to the speaker 1510, an input signal generation circuit for generating a signal of the sound collected by the microphone 1512, a circuit for inputting image data of the image captured by the image sensor unit 1520, a signal input / output circuit to the memory card reader 1542, etc.

[0073] These elements mounted on the control board 1550 are electrically connected via a bus circuit or the like, and are connected so as to enable reading and writing of data and transmission and reception of signals. Note that part or all of the control board 1550 may be configured by an ASIC, an FPGA, or a SoC. And the control board 1550 stores programs and various data for realizing various functions enabling game play on the terminal in the IC memory 1552.

[0074] Note that, in the present embodiment, the user terminal 1500 is configured to download programs and various setting data from the server system 1100 or the like, but it may also be configured to read from a storage medium such as a separately obtained memory card 1540.

[0075] [Overview of the Game] The overview of the game will be described. FIG. 5 is a diagram for explaining the overview of the game in the present embodiment. When the user 2 who is a player starts a predetermined program on the user terminal 1500 and accesses the server system 1100 to go through the login procedure, a desired prize selection screen W3 for selecting a prize to be obtained (hereinafter referred to as "desired prize") is displayed on the user terminal 1500. Then, when a prize selection operation of selecting a desired prize from the available prizes is performed on the desired prize selection screen W3, a play device selection screen W4 is displayed.

[0076] On the play device selection screen W4, a prize acquisition device 1200 (hereinafter referred to as "candidate device") that can acquire the desired prize in the server system 1100 and is a candidate for the device to be used for play is searched and displayed so that the candidate device can be selected. Then, when the user 2 performs a selection operation of the prize acquisition device 1200 to be used for play from among the candidate devices, the device is set as the "play device". When the play device is determined, the server system 1100 enables the user terminal 1500 to remotely operate the play device.

[0077] Now, when remote operation becomes possible, on the user terminal 1500, a remote operation screen W5 is displayed and game play becomes possible. The remote operation screen W5 is a screen corresponding to the game play screen so to speak, and displays a prize name display 30, a play price display 31, a remaining play medium display 32, a play medium purchase operation icon 33, a remaining time display 34 indicating the remaining time of the restricted time during which the movement operation of the crane unit 1210 is accepted, a movement operation icon 35 for moving the crane unit 1210, an action sequence start operation icon 36, a camera switching operation icon 37, a live monitor image 38, and a prize acquisition area display 39. In a configuration where prize acquisition is realized by a physical opening or pedestal, the prize acquisition area display 39 can be omitted.

[0078] The remaining play medium display 32 indicates the quantity of play media that the player currently holds. The "play media" mentioned here is a medium that is consumed as payment for the play price, and can be read as virtual currency, electronic money, prepaid points, in-game points, etc. In this embodiment, prepaid points are used. The play media can of course be purchased at a predetermined online shopping before the start of play, and can also be purchased immediately during play by operating the play media purchase operation icon 33.

[0079] The live monitor image 38 displays the captured image of the first video camera 1220f or the second video camera 1220s switched by the camera switching operation icon 37 (see FIGS. 2 and 3). The user 2 who is the player touches the movement operation icon 35 and the action sequence start operation icon 36 while looking at this live monitor image 38 to remotely operate the crane unit 1210 and play aiming to acquire the prize 4.

[0080] Note that the captured images of the first video camera 1220f and the second video camera 1220s are images with so-called perspective from the viewpoints of the cameras, and are not images like orthographic projection views. This is one of the gameplay and interesting aspects of performing game play by remote control while viewing images from a camera installed at a fixed position.

[0081] The movement operation icon 35 is an icon for inputting an operation to move the crane unit 1210 of the prize acquisition device 1200 which is a play device. In the present embodiment, two icons are prepared for each of the movable directions in which the crane unit 1210 can be instructed. When the icon is operated, a remote operation signal in the corresponding moving direction is transmitted to the prize acquisition device 1200 via the server system 1100. The prize acquisition device 1200 executes a movement sequence for moving the crane unit 1210 according to the received remote operation signal.

[0082] The action sequence start operation icon 36 is an operation icon for inputting an operation to immediately stop the movement if the crane unit 1210 is moving and start the action sequence immediately from that position, or start the action sequence immediately from that position if it is not moving.

[0083] The "action sequence" is a sequence that is executed following the movement sequence of the crane unit 1210 in response to a remote operation, and is a series of orders and processes for engaging the crane unit 1210 with the prize. The operations, that is, the actions, in the sequence can be appropriately set according to the mechanism of the crane unit 1210 and the like. For example, if the crane unit 1210 is configured to open and close a plurality of gripping claws (which may also be called gripping arms), the action sequence includes a series of catching operations of descending, opening the gripping claws, closing the gripping claws, and ascending. In the case of descending, if it is configured to stop the descending operation in response to a stop operation input, the operation of automatically descending is also included in the action sequence.

[0084] When the action sequence ends, the prize acquisition device 1200 automatically executes an end operation sequence. The "end operation sequence" is a process of moving the crane unit 1210 to a given end operation position to perform an end operation. In this embodiment, the "end operation position" is set to a position directly above the center position of the prize acquisition area 1260. Then, as the "end operation", two sub-sequences of an "opening operation of opening the claws 1212" and a "closing operation of closing the claws 1212" are automatically executed continuously.

[0085] Note that in this embodiment, although the end operation sequence is automatically executed, it can also be configured to be remotely operated from the user terminal 1500. For example, a configuration in which the movement to the end operation position is the target of remote operation is also possible. If the crane unit 1210 is moved to a position directly above the center position of the prize acquisition area 1260 and then moved to an initial position of the crane unit such as a home position, the position of the home position may be set as the "end operation position".

[0086] If the engagement with the target prize 4 of the sequence is successful by the action sequence, the prize 4 can be successfully caught, and if it can be held until the crane unit 1210 moves to the end operation position, the caught prize will fall toward the prize acquisition area 1260 by the end operation. If the dropped prize 4 stays in the prize acquisition area 1260 successfully, it is recognized that the prize has been acquired.

[0087] In addition, as a determination condition for the prize 4 staying in the prize acquisition area 1260, it can be appropriately set whether to limit it to the case where the entire prize 4 is within the area, or to recognize it as acquired if a part of it overlaps the area. In the present embodiment, from the image captured by the video camera 1220, the prize 4 is recognized by image recognition, and it is determined whether it is included within the set range of the prize acquisition area 1260. When the prize acquisition area 1260 is realized as a physical opening to the connecting passage 1264 leading to the payout port 1262, it may be determined using the prize acquisition number detection sensor 1266 (see Fig. 3). When the prize acquisition area 1260 is realized as a physical pedestal portion, a load sensor may be provided on the pedestal portion, and the weight of the object placed on the pedestal portion may be measured to determine acquisition.

[0088] In addition, the prize 4 arranged in the play space 1202 of the prize acquisition device 1200 can be a so-called substitute prize, which is a substitute for the prize.

[0089] Fig. 6 is a comparison diagram of an example of a substitute prize in the present embodiment and an example of how it is shown in the live monitor image 38 of the substitute prize. As shown in Fig. 6(1), the appearance of the substitute prize 5 has prize markers 70 (front prize marker 70f, left prize marker 70s, upper prize marker 70t,...), which are AR markers specific to each face, provided on each of the six faces of the rectangular parallelepiped. That is, the substitute prize 5 is a so-called "AR box". By performing image recognition on the prize markers 70 based on the captured image of the video camera 1220 or the captured image of the prize situation capturing camera 1230, the position and orientation of the substitute prize 5 in the play space 1202 can be recognized.

[0090] And each prize marker 70 is associated with the image information of each of the six faces of the prize 4 that the substitute prize substitutes for, so-called "AR images". As shown in Fig. 6(2), in the live monitor image 38, the prize images 72 (front prize image 72f, left prize image 72s, upper prize image 72t,...) of the prize 4 associated with them are displayed at the positions where the prize markers 70 are recognized.

[0091] [Explanation of the game] Now, in the present embodiment, in order to enhance the attractiveness of the prize acquisition system 1000, the server system 1100 performs prediction processing of prizes whose acquisition is predicted (predicted acquisition prizes) and post-prediction processing of user services according to the prediction results.

[0092] FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining an example of prediction processing and post-prediction processing in the present embodiment. The "prediction processing" is a process executed for the prize acquisition device 1200 in a state where it is not used in the game play, in other words, waiting to be selected as a play device, and is a process of finding "prizes whose acquisition is predicted (predicted acquisition prizes)" and "prizes that seem easy to obtain" from the arrangement status of the prizes 4 in the play space 1202 of the prize acquisition device 1200. The "prizes that seem easy to obtain" can also be said to mean "prizes that seem easy to move" in a certain sense, and thus it means prizes in a situation where the ease of movement and the possibility of acquisition are improved. Then, in the "prediction processing", a step-by-step determination of the ease of acquisition of the found "prizes that seem easy to obtain" is performed to determine the "predicted acquisition probability".

[0093] The "post-prediction processing" includes at least any one of 1) changing at least any one of the settings related to the game play of the prize acquisition device 1200, specifically, the play price, the payment method of the allowed play price, the time limit related to the game play, and the service points (acquisition points) given to the user 2 along with the game play, 2) notifying the user 2 that there are prizes that seem easy to obtain, and 3) making the display of the live monitor image 38 a notification state display on the remote operation screen of the prize acquisition device 1200 where there are prizes that seem easy to obtain.

[0094] Regarding the change in the settings related to the game play, when there are prizes that seem easy to obtain, the change in the "play price" changes the play price to be higher than the standard amount. The change range may be, for example, higher as the number of prizes that seem easy to obtain and their predicted acquisition probabilities are larger. Also, for the change in the play price, a predetermined reference value may be set, and when the prizes that seem easy to obtain exceed the reference value, the play price is changed to be higher, and when it is below the reference value, the play price is changed to be lower.

[0095] Regarding the setting change related to game play, for the "payment method of acceptable play consideration", if there are prizes that are likely to be won, the payment method of acceptable play consideration is changed to increase it. For example, as a standard payment method of play consideration, payment by a play medium is prepared, but if there are prizes that are likely to be won, payment by service points that the user has already acquired is also permitted.

[0096] Regarding the setting change related to game play, for the change of the "restricted time related to game play", the restricted time for accepting the movement operation of the crane unit 1210 is changed. If there are prizes that are likely to be won, the restricted time is changed to be longer than the standard time. The temporal width of the change may be changed to be longer, for example, as the number of prizes that are likely to be won and their predicted winning probability are larger. Also, a predetermined reference value may be set, and if the prizes that are likely to be won exceed the reference value, the restricted time is changed to be shorter, and if it is below the reference value, the restricted time is changed to be longer.

[0097] Regarding the setting change related to game play, for the change of the "service points given to the user along with game play", if there are prizes that are likely to be won, the service points given are changed to be less than the standard value. The change width may be changed to be less, for example, as the number of prizes that are likely to be won and their predicted winning probability are larger. A predetermined reference value may be set, and if the prizes that are likely to be won exceed the reference value, the service points given are changed to be less, and if it is below the reference value, the service points given are changed to be more. Note that the service points may be appropriately renamed as acquisition points or the like.

[0098] The notification to User 2 that there are prizes that are likely to be won is made according to the notification destination and notification method that User 2 has set and registered in advance. For example, an e-mail or a notification function realized by the operating system of the user terminal 1500 can be used.

[0099] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of a notification state display in the live monitor image 38. The notification state display is displayed when a predetermined notification condition based on the arrangement status of the prizes 4 in the play space 1202 is satisfied. In the present embodiment, the notification condition includes at least the presence of prizes that are likely to be won.

[0100] The content of the notification state display can be set as appropriate. In the present embodiment, any one of an explicit display 10, a guide display 12, and a hint display 14 is displayed.

[0101] The explicit display 10 is an example of an overlap display that explicitly indicates a prize in an arrangement state that satisfies the notification condition. The illustrated example shows an example of explicit indication by emphasizing the outline, but other display forms such as display of a predetermined target marker and shading of the corresponding prize portion may also be used. And, variations such as setting different display colors according to the predicted probability of the target prize 4 are provided in the display form of the explicit display 10. For the substitute prize 5, in addition to changing the display color of the explicit display 10, the AR images (front prize image 72f, left prize image 72s,...) associated with the prize marker 70 are replaced with AR images for notification state display set according to the acquisition prediction probability and displayed.

[0102] The guide display 12 is a display that guides the remote operation of the crane unit 1210. In the present embodiment, as will be described later, since data on past acquisition success cases is used for recognizing prizes that are likely to be won, the position coordinates of the crane unit 1210 are shown based on similar success cases.

[0103] The hint display 14 shows an operation hint on how to use the crane unit 1210 to acquire a prize that is likely to be won.

[0104] Such notification status display has not been realized in conventional crane game machines, whether they are remote operation type or direct operation type, and it brings many benefits to users. Therefore, the prize acquisition system 1000 of the present embodiment has an unprecedented charm that attracts users, and it becomes possible to improve the revenue for the operator by attracting customers through this charm.

[0105] [Explanation of Functional Configuration] FIGs. 9 and 10 are functional block diagrams showing an example of the functional configuration of the server system 1100 in the present embodiment. The server system 1100 in the present embodiment includes a server processing unit 200s (see FIG. 9) and a server storage unit 500s (see FIG. 10).

[0106] The server processing unit 200s is realized by, for example, a microprocessor such as a CPU or GPU, and electronic components such as an ASIC and an IC memory, and performs input / output control of data with each functional unit including the operation input unit 100s and the server storage unit 500s. Then, based on a predetermined program, data, an operation input signal from the operation input unit 100s, data received from the user terminal 1500, data received from the prize acquisition device 1200, etc., it executes various arithmetic processes to integrally control the operation of the server system 1100. In the present embodiment, it is realized by the control board 1150 reading and executing the server program 501.

[0107] And the server processing unit 200s of the present embodiment includes a user management unit 202, an online shopping management unit 204, a prize acquisition system management unit 206, a prediction unit 210, a post-prediction processing unit 220, a game management unit 230, a notification desired prize setting unit 240, a prize shipping procedure processing unit 242, and a timing unit 280s. Of course, other functional units can also be appropriately included.

[0108] The user management unit 202 performs processing related to user registration procedures and manages data of each user associated with the user account. In this embodiment, the user management unit 202 has the following functions: 1) assigning a unique user account to a registered user; 2) registration information management for registering and managing personal information for each user account; 3) ledger management of the electronic payment medium consumed by payment of charging elements (such as the purchase of a play medium for playing the prize acquisition device 1200 in online shopping) in this embodiment; 4) login management for login and logout for game play; and 5) play history management for managing play history and the like. Of course, other data management functions associated with these accounts can also be appropriately included.

[0109] The online shopping management unit 204 is responsible for control related to online shopping and can be realized by appropriately using known online shopping technologies. In this embodiment, the player can purchase a "play medium" consumed as a play price for playing the prize acquisition device 1200 through online shopping. Of course, the sales targets in online shopping can also be appropriately set otherwise.

[0110] The prize acquisition system management unit 206 executes various processes related to the management of the prize acquisition system. In this embodiment, it can execute functions such as setting and managing the selected prize acquisition device 1200 in the play device, storing and managing various information related to the prize acquisition system 1000 in the server storage unit 500s, and providing that information to the user terminal 1500. Of course, other processes can also be appropriately included.

[0111] The prediction unit 210 predicts and determines the possibility of winning a prize. In this embodiment, based on the arrangement status of prizes in the play space, it recognizes prizes that satisfy the improvement status condition defined as a condition indicating that the mobility or the possibility of acquisition is improved in a situation where it is easy to obtain a prize, in other words, "prizes that are easy to move to" and "prizes that are easy to obtain". In this embodiment, since the prediction post-processing includes changing to the notification status display, the prediction unit 210 also serves as a determination means for determining whether or not a predetermined notification condition based on the arrangement status of the prizes 4 in the play space 1202 is satisfied.

[0112] And the prediction unit 210 includes a prediction determination data acquisition control unit 212. The prediction determination data acquisition control unit 212 communicates with the prize acquisition device 1200 that is not in the play state, and controls to acquire the photographed image data by the prize situation photographing camera 1230 as prediction determination data. Therefore, the prediction unit 210 can, as a determination means, determine whether or not the arrangement status satisfies the notification condition based on the photographed image of the camera.

[0113] In addition, for each recognized prize that is easy to obtain, the prediction unit 210 can make a step-by-step determination of the situation where the mobility or the possibility of acquisition is improved, and set an acquisition prediction probability for each. In this step-by-step determination, it is determined that the closer the distance between the prize that is easy to obtain and the prize acquisition area 1260 (see FIG. 2), the higher the possibility of acquisition. Also, when the posture of the prize that is easy to obtain is the same as or similar to past successful cases, it is determined that the possibility of acquisition is high. Also, it is determined that the fewer the number of prizes that are easy to obtain, the higher the possibility of acquisition.

[0114] The prediction post-processing unit 220 performs prediction post-processing based on the prediction determination result of the prediction unit 210 (see FIG. 7). Specifically, it includes a play price setting unit 222, a payment method setting unit 223, a time limit setting unit 224, a notification control unit 225, a desired user recruitment control unit 226, and a play order determination unit 227.

[0115] The play price setting unit 222 variably sets the play price for each prize acquisition play by remote operation according to the determination result as the determination means by the prediction unit 210.

[0116] The payment method setting unit 223 variably sets, from among a plurality of predetermined payment method candidates prepared as the payment method for the play price for each prize acquisition play by remote operation, the payment method candidate to be allowed as the payment method, according to the determination result as the determination means by the prediction unit 210.

[0117] The restricted time setting unit 224 variably sets the restricted time during which the movement operation of the crane unit 1210 in the remote operation play is accepted, according to the determination result as the determination means by the prediction unit 210.

[0118] When a positive determination is made by the function as the determination means by the prediction unit 210, the notification control unit 225 performs control to give a predetermined notification to the user who has set the prize that can be acquired by the play device for which the positive determination has been made as the desired notification prize.

[0119] The desired user recruitment control unit 226 performs control to recruit users who wish to play remotely for a given period for the play device for which a positive determination has been made by the function as the determination means by the prediction unit 210. Specifically, for each user who wishes to play remotely, it can accept the application amount of the play price for the remote operation play that the user applies for.

[0120] When there are a plurality of users recruited by the desired user recruitment control unit 226, the play order determination unit 227 determines the order of the users who will perform the remote operation play. Specifically, it determines the order of the users who will perform the remote operation play based on the application amounts of the recruited users.

[0121] The game management unit 230 performs various controls related to the execution of the online game. In the present embodiment, it performs various controls as the game server in an online game system of the client - server type.

[0122] Specifically, the game management unit 230 of the present embodiment includes a play device selection unit 232, a monitor image display control unit 233, an AR image display control unit 234, and a notification state display control unit 235.

[0123] The play device selection unit 232 selects a play device, which is a prize acquisition device 1200 to be played, from among a plurality of prize acquisition devices 1200 associated with obtainable prizes according to a user's operation input. In the present embodiment, the display of the desired prize selection screen W3 and the play device selection screen W4, and the setting process according to the selection operations on each selection screen correspond to this (see FIG. 5).

[0124] The monitor image display control unit 233 performs control to display a live monitor image 38 based on a captured image by the video camera 1220 of the prize acquisition device 1200, which is the play device, on the display unit of the user terminal 1500.

[0125] The AR image display control unit 234 recognizes the substitute prize 5, which is an AR box, based on the captured image by the video camera 1220 of the prize acquisition device 1200, which is the play device, and displays an image based on the prize marker 70 (AR marker) on the substitute prize 5 in the live monitor image 38.

[0126] When a positive determination is made by the function as the determination means by the prediction unit 210, the notification state display control unit 235 performs notification state display control to perform a given overlap display on the display of the live monitor image 38 for notification state display (see FIG. 7).

[0127] Specifically, the notification state display control unit 235 regards it as being determined by the determination means that the notification conditions are satisfied by satisfying the improvement situation conditions when it is recognized by the prediction unit 210 that a prize that is likely to be obtained is recognized, and performs control to display different notification state displays according to the determination result (acquisition prediction probability) of the stage of the improved situation.

[0128] In addition, the notification status display control unit 235 considers that the situation where the easiness of movement and the acquirability of the prize have been improved is stepwise determined based on the acquisition prediction probability set for the prize that is likely to be obtained by the prediction unit 210, and performs control to display different notification statuses according to the stage of the acquirability.

[0129] The desired notification prize setting unit 240 sets the desired notification prize for each registered user according to the selection operation input of the user.

[0130] The prize delivery procedure processing unit 242 performs a procedure to deliver the prize 4 determined to have been acquired or a prize 4 of the same type to the delivery destination previously registered by the user who is the player. And in this embodiment, special processing can be performed only when a plurality of substitute prizes 5 are acquired in a single remote operation play. Specifically, instead of delivering the prize that the plurality of substitute prizes 5 substitute for, a procedure is performed to upgrade and deliver them to another prize of higher quality, higher value, or higher rarity than the said prize. Or, it may be that one prize that the acquired substitute prize 5 substitutes for and one upgraded other prize are delivered.

[0131] The timing unit 280s measures the current date and time, the time limit, etc. using the system clock.

[0132] The server storage unit 500s stores programs and various data for realizing various functions for integrally controlling the server system 1100 by the server processing unit 200s. Also, it is used as a work area for the server processing unit 200s and temporarily stores calculation results and the like executed by the server processing unit 200s according to various programs. This function is realized by, for example, IC memories such as RAM and ROM, magnetic disks such as hard disks, optical disks such as CD-ROMs and DVDs, online storage, etc. In the example of FIG. 1, the storage media such as the IC memory 1152 and the hard disk mounted on the main body device 1101, and the storage 1140 correspond to this.

[0133] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of programs and data stored in the server storage unit 500s in the present embodiment. The server storage unit 500s of the present embodiment stores a server program 501, a distribution game client program 502, sales management data 509, and prediction dictionary data 510.

[0134] In addition, the server storage unit 500s stores, as data to be sequentially updated, prize acquisition device management data 550, user management data 600, prediction management data 650, a list of play devices 690, play data 700, and the current date and time 800. In addition, information such as timers, counters, and various flags can be stored as appropriate.

[0135] The server program 501 is a program for realizing functions as a user management unit 202, an online shopping management unit 204, a prize acquisition system management unit 206, a prediction unit 210, a post-prediction processing unit 220, and a game management unit 230 when read and executed by the server processing unit 200s.

[0136] The distribution game client program 502 is the original of the game client program provided to the user terminal 1500.

[0137] The sales management data 509 stores data for defining and managing products sold through online shopping. In the present embodiment, the play medium consumed as the play price of the prize acquisition device 1200 is included in the products sold.

[0138] The prediction dictionary data 510 is dictionary data for the prediction unit 210 to predict the possibility of obtaining a prize, and is dictionary data for recognizing "easily obtainable prizes". The prediction dictionary data 510 is prepared for each combination of assumed conditions (for example, combination of prize types, number of prizes, specifications of the crane unit 1210, layout of the play space 1202, etc.).

[0139] One prediction dictionary data 510 includes, as shown in FIG. 11, a unique prediction dictionary data name 511, a prize type combination 512, prize recognition dictionary data 520, and acquisition possibility improvement condition definition data 530.

[0140] The prize type combination 512 is a list of the types of prizes 4 handled by the dictionary data. The "combined" prizes may be only one type or two or more types.

[0141] The prize recognition dictionary data 520 is dictionary data for identifying prizes on the premise of determining the prize arrangement status in the play space, and is prepared for each prize type included in the list of the prize type combination 512.

[0142] One prize recognition dictionary data 520 includes a recognized prize type 521 which is the type of prize to be recognized, pose-specific contour dictionary data 523, and pose-specific image dictionary data 525. Of course, other information can also be included as appropriate.

[0143] The pose-specific contour dictionary data 523 is dictionary data for identifying the presence and pose of a prize by comparing with the contour line extracted from the captured image of the depth sensor 1240, and is prepared for each pose of the recognized prize. One pose-specific contour dictionary data 523 stores the pose type and the dictionary data.

[0144] The pose-specific image dictionary data 525 is dictionary data for identifying the presence and pose of a prize by comparing with the contour line extracted from the captured image of the prize situation camera 1230, and is prepared for each pose of the recognized prize. One pose-specific image dictionary data 525 stores the pose type and the dictionary data.

[0145] The acquisition possibility improvement condition definition data 530 is basic data for determining that the prize is in a state where the acquisition possibility has improved, and is dictionary data for recognizing the "easily acquirable prize" as mentioned in this specification. In this embodiment, it also serves as the notification condition definition data for starting the notification state display.

[0146] The acquisition possibility improvement condition definition data 530 is prepared for each combination of the prize type to be determined and the state in which the acquisition possibility is improved, that is, the state in which it is judged to be easy to obtain. The acquisition possibility improvement condition definition data 530 is created by the operator or manufacturer of the prize acquisition system 1000 based on successful cases where prizes could be acquired as a result of numerous test plays in advance.

[0147] One acquisition possibility improvement condition definition data 530 includes a prize type 531, condition description data 532, an acquisition prediction probability 537, and notification state display material data 538. Of course, other data can also be appropriately included.

[0148] The condition description data 532 stores various data that describe the conditions for the state in which the acquisition possibility is improved, that is, the state in which it is judged to be easy to obtain. In this embodiment, it includes contour feature data 533, arrangement image feature data 534, distance condition data 535, and prize number condition 536, and the conditions are described as AND or OR of these. Of course, each can also be set to "none".

[0149] The contour feature data 533 indicates the features of the contour line of the prize in the state in which it is judged to be easy to obtain as recognized by the definition data. In this embodiment, when compared with the image captured by the prize situation photographing camera 1230 or the depth distribution data obtained from the measurement results of the depth sensor 1240 and they are the same or have a high degree of similarity, it is determined to match the feature data.

[0150] The arrangement image feature data 534 indicates the features of the image captured by the prize situation photographing camera 1230 in the state in which it is judged to be easy to obtain as recognized by the definition data. In this embodiment, when compared with the image captured by the prize situation photographing camera 1230 and they are the same or have a high degree of similarity, it is determined to match the feature data.

[0151] The distance condition data 535 specifies the range regarding the distance between the position in the prize play space 1202 and the prize acquisition area 1260. When the distance between the recognized prize and the prize acquisition area 1260 falls within the range indicated by the said condition data, it is determined to conform to the said condition data.

[0152] The prize number condition 536 specifies the range of the number of prizes 4 recognized in the play space 1202. "0" or "not set" can also be set.

[0153] The acquisition prediction probability 537 represents, as the prediction probability, the step-by-step judgment result of the acquisition possibility when the prize of the prize type 531 conforms to the condition description data 532. It can be arbitrarily set by the creator based on the experience of the creator of the prediction dictionary data 510 and the statistical results of test plays.

[0154] The notification status display material data 538 is the material data for display of the notification status display that notifies the user of the prize arrangement situation that seems easy to obtain recognized by the said definition data. In the present embodiment, it stores the material data for display such as the explicit display 10, the guide display 12, the hint display 14, etc. (see Fig. 8). If the prize type 531 is the substitute prize 5, the AR image data to be replaced at the time of the notification status display can also be stored here.

[0155] Returning to Fig. 10, the prize acquisition device management data 550 is prepared for each prize acquisition device 1200 (1200a, 1200b,...) of the operator facility 3 (see Fig. 1) and stores various data associated with the prize acquisition device.

[0156] One prize acquisition device management data 550 includes, for example, as shown in FIG. 12, a unique prize acquisition device ID 551, access information 552, a prize type 553 indicating the type of prize it contains, initial setting data 554, a play price setting function 555, payment method setting pattern data 556, a service point setting function 557, a time limit setting function 558, a usage prediction dictionary data name 560, AR box recognition dictionary data 562, standard AR image data 564, end operation sequence position coordinates 566, an applicable play price 570, an allowable payment method list 571, an applicable time limit 572, an applicable service point 573, desired user recruitment data 574, and a play order list 575. Of course, other data can also be included as appropriate.

[0157] The access information 552 is information necessary for communicating and connecting to the device via the communication line 9. For example, it includes an IP address, a passcode, and the like.

[0158] The initial setting data 554 stores various initial setting data. For example, it includes initial setting values such as the play price, the types of allowable payment methods, the time limit, and the service points to be granted.

[0159] The play price setting function 555 is a function that defines how the play price is to be changed under what conditions as post-prediction processing. It may be implemented with table data. The value calculated by the function shall be a value adjusted according to the play medium. For example, if it is the consumption of game points, the number of points may be calculated. When paying the play price by consuming items, the number of items or a value indicating the type of item may be calculated.

[0160] The payment method setting pattern data 556 defines how to change the payment method of the allowable play price under what conditions as post-prediction processing. One payment method setting pattern data 556 includes, for example, a list of candidate payment methods that are allowed and application conditions. The content of the application conditions can be set as appropriate. For example, it can be described by combining conditions such as the number of easy-to-win prizes, which is the predicted number of prizes to be obtained, and the condition of the maximum predicted winning probability among them, using AND or OR. Of course, any of them can be set to "no setting".

[0161] The service point setting function 557 is a function that defines how to change the service point under what conditions as post-prediction processing. It may be implemented using table data.

[0162] The time limit setting function 558 is a function that defines how to change the time limit under what conditions as post-prediction processing. It may be implemented using table data. If there is a newly added time limit, the set value of the added time limit can also be included here.

[0163] The name of the prediction dictionary data to be used 560 indicates the prediction dictionary data 510 to be used (see FIG. 11).

[0164] The dictionary data 562 for AR box recognition is dictionary data for recognizing the prize marker 70 (AR marker) of the substitute prize 5.

[0165] The standard AR image data 564 stores the AR image displayed on the substitute prize 5 at the standard time when the notification state is not displayed.

[0166] The coordinate 566 of the end operation sequence position is the coordinate in the play space 1202 where the crane unit 1210 moves in the end operation sequence. It may also be a parameter value for controlling the movement of the crane unit 1210. In this embodiment, the coordinate directly above the prize acquisition area 1260 (see FIG. 2) is set.

[0167] The initial values of the applicable play price 570, the list of acceptable payment methods 571, the applicable restricted time 572, and the applicable service points 573 are each copied, but are changed by these change processes associated with the prediction post-processing.

[0168] The desired user recruitment data 574 is the result of recruiting and accepting users who wish to play the prize-winning device. It is created for each accepted user and stores the user account and the application amount in association with each other.

[0169] The play order list 575 is the play order applied to the users who applied. In this embodiment, the play order is set in descending order of the application amount of each person, but the order may be set according to other rules.

[0170] Returning to FIG. 10, the user management data 600 is prepared for each registered user and stores various data associated with an account which is unique identification information. In this embodiment, for example, as shown in FIG. 13, one user management data 600 includes a unique user account 601, settlement medium ledger data 603, personal information registration data 605, the quantity of held play media 607, the number of acquired service points 609, play history data 610, and the types of prizes for which notification is desired 612. Of course, data other than these can also be included as appropriate.

[0171] The settlement medium ledger data 603 is a so-called ledger that stores information associating the amount of replenishment / consumption of a settlement medium for electronic payment (for example, virtual currency, points, etc.) associated with the user, the reason for replenishment / consumption, and the change date and time. It can be read as charging history data or charging history information.

[0172] The personal information registration data 605 includes the personal information of the user. For example, it can include an email address, a phone number, prize delivery destination information which is the delivery destination of the acquired prizes, notification destination access information, and the like.

[0173] The number of remaining play media 607 stores the remaining number of media consumed as the play price of the prize acquisition device 1200 purchased by the user by consuming the payment medium. The actual form of the play media can be appropriately set such as prepaid points, in-game currency, items, etc.

[0174] The prize type for which notification is desired 612 corresponds to filter information regarding the prize type for which the user receives a notification as post-prediction processing. When a predetermined prize setting operation for which notification is desired is performed on the user terminal 1500, the server system 1100 causes the user terminal 1500 to display a list of prizes that can be acquired by the prize acquisition device 1200 (1200a, 1200b,...) on the user terminal and accepts a selection operation by the user. The result of the selection operation is stored in the prize type for which notification is desired 612. Then, when the server system 1100 performs a notification as post-prediction processing, it notifies the user whose type of "easily acquirable prize" to be notified matches the prize type for which notification is desired 612.

[0175] Returning to FIG. 10, the prediction management data 650 is prepared for each prize acquisition device 1200 (1200a, 1200b,...) and stores various data related to the prediction process. One prediction management data 650 stores, for example, as shown in FIG. 14, a prediction target device ID 651 indicating the prize acquisition device 1200 to be predicted, a use prediction dictionary data name 653, prediction determination data 660, and acquired prediction prize data 670. Of course, other data can also be appropriately stored.

[0176] The prediction determination data 660 stores the prediction determination data received from the prize acquisition device 1200 to be predicted. In the present embodiment, it includes first prize situation image data 661 and second prize situation image data 663 which are the shooting data of each of the two prize situation shooting cameras 1230, and first depth measurement data 665 and second depth measurement data 667 which are the measurement data of each of the two depth sensors 1240. In addition, contour line data obtained from these data can also be appropriately stored.

[0177] The acquired prediction prize data 670 is a prize 4 (including the substitute prize 5) recognized in the play space 1202, and is created for each prize that satisfies the acquisition possibility improvement condition definition data 530 set in the prize acquisition device 1200, that is, a "prize that seems easy to obtain".

[0178] One acquired prediction prize data 670 stores a recognition number 671 assigned in the order of recognition, a prize type 672, a prize position coordinate 673, a prize posture 674, a distance from the prize acquisition area 675, an acquired prediction probability 676, and contour line data 677. Of course, other data can also be stored as appropriate.

[0179] The prize position coordinate 673 may be a coordinate on the captured image of the prize situation capturing camera 1230, or may be a coordinate in the play space 1202 geometrically obtained therefrom.

[0180] The prize posture 674 copies the posture type stored in the contour dictionary data 523 or the image dictionary data 525 by posture, which is determined to have a match or high similarity among the prize recognition dictionary data 520 of the used prediction dictionary data 510 (see FIG. 11).

[0181] The distance 675 from the prize acquisition area is a distance value geometrically obtained from the coordinate difference between the coordinate value in the play space 1202 obtained from the prize position coordinate 673 and the end operation sequence position coordinate 566 (see FIG. 12) in the target device.

[0182] The acquired prediction probability 676 copies the acquired prediction probability 537 of the matching stationary data among the acquisition possibility improvement condition definition data 530 of the used prediction dictionary data 510 (see FIG. 11).

[0183] The contour line data 677 is data obtained by cutting out the contour line used when recognizing the prize.

[0184] Returning to FIG. 10, the prize acquisition device list 690 is data indicating which of the prize acquisition devices 1200 (1200a, 1200b, …) is in use for game play. The prize acquisition device IDs of all the prize acquisition devices 1200 are registered in the list. Then, the prize acquisition device IDs of the prize acquisition devices 1200 that are set as the play devices in association with the corresponding acquired player accounts are registered, and those registrations are deleted at the end of the game play.

[0185] Play data 700 is created for each remote play and stores various data related to the play. For example, a player account, the prize acquisition device ID of the prize acquisition device 1200 that is set as the play device, the play start date and time, a time counter for the time limit, and the like are stored.

[0186] FIG. 15 is a functional block diagram showing the main functional configuration of the prize acquisition device 1200 in the present embodiment. The prize acquisition device 1200 includes an acquisition device processing unit 200k and an acquisition device storage unit 500k.

[0187] The acquisition device storage unit 500k is realized by an IC memory 1252 mounted on the control board 1250 and stores a control program 505. The acquisition device processing unit 200k is realized by the CPU 1251 on the control board 1250 reading and performing arithmetic processing on the control program 505. Specifically, it realizes functions as a prediction determination data providing control unit 250, a photographed image providing control unit 252, a remote play operation control unit 254, and a prize acquisition number providing unit 256.

[0188] The prediction determination data providing control unit 250 performs control related to the provision of prediction determination data. Specifically, when receiving a predetermined request signal from an external device (the server system 1100 in the present embodiment), it executes control to return the photographed image data of the prize situation photographing camera 1230 and the measurement data by the depth sensor 1240 to the request source.

[0189] The shooting image providing control unit 252 controls the provision of the data of the shooting image of the video camera 1220 that is the basis of the monitor image. Specifically, when receiving a request signal for providing the shooting image from an external device (in this embodiment, the user terminal 1500 via the server system 1100 or the user terminal 1500 not via the server system 1100), it starts controlling to periodically transmit the shooting image data of the video camera 1220 to the requester until the remote operation play ends.

[0190] The remote play operation control unit 254 controls the operation of the remote operation play. Specifically, when receiving a predetermined remote operation signal from an external device (in this embodiment, the user terminal 1500 via the server system 1100 or the user terminal 1500 not via the server system 1100), it executes a positioning sequence to move the crane unit 1210 according to the remote operation signal. And when the positioning sequence ends, it executes the control of each of the action sequence and the end operation sequence.

[0191] The prize acquisition number providing unit 256 controls to provide information on the number of acquired prizes or information for determining the number of acquired prizes. Specifically, at the end of the end operation sequence, it automatically or in response to a predetermined request signal, transmits the detection value by the prize acquisition number detection sensor 1266 (see FIG. 3). When image-recognizing the prize moved to the prize acquisition area 1260 from the shooting image of the video camera 1220, it can also be substituted by providing the shooting image of the video camera 1220.

[0192] FIG. 16 is a functional block diagram showing the main functional configuration of the user terminal 1500 in this embodiment. The user terminal 1500 in this embodiment includes a terminal processing unit 200, a terminal storage unit 500, and an operation input unit such as a touch panel 1506.

[0193] The terminal processing unit 200 is realized by electronic components such as microprocessors such as CPUs and GPUs, ASICs, and IC memories, and performs input / output control of data with each functional unit including the operation input unit and the terminal storage unit 500. In the example of FIG. 4, the control board 1550 and the CPU 1551 correspond to this.

[0194] The terminal processing unit 200 executes various arithmetic processes based on a predetermined program, data, an operation input signal from the operation input unit, data received from the server system 1100, a signal received from the prize acquisition device 1200, etc., and integrally controls the operation of the user terminal 1500.

[0195] The terminal storage unit 500 stores programs and various data for realizing various functions in the terminal processing unit 200. Further, it is used as a work area of the terminal processing unit 200 and temporarily stores calculation results and the like executed by the terminal processing unit 200. This function is realized by, for example, IC memories such as RAM and ROM, magnetic disks such as hard disks, optical disks such as CD-ROMs and DVDs, online storage, etc. In the example of FIG. 4, the IC memory 1552 and the memory card 1540 correspond to this. Online storage can also be included.

[0196] The user terminal 1500 in the said structure downloads the distribution game client program 502 (refer to FIG. 10) and stores it in the terminal storage unit 500 as the game client program 592. The game client program 592 may be a dedicated client program according to the technical method for realizing an online game, or may be configured by a web browser program and a plugin for realizing interactive image display.

[0197] Then, the user terminal 1500 realizes the function as the user terminal arithmetic unit 260 in the terminal processing unit 200 by executing the game client program 592. The user terminal arithmetic unit 260 includes an operation signal transmission control unit 261 and a game screen display control unit 262.

[0198] The operation signal transmission control unit 261 transmits various data and requests to the server system 1100 according to the operations performed on the operation input unit. For example, when a predetermined login operation is input, it is possible to access the server system 1100 and transmit a login request.

[0199] The game screen display control unit 262 performs control for displaying a game screen based on various data received from the server system 1100. In this embodiment, the display control of the desired prize selection screen W3, the play device selection screen W4, the remote operation screen W5 (see FIG. 5), etc. corresponds to this.

[0200] The terminal storage unit 500 stores, in addition to the game client program 592, the user account 594 input by the user along with the login procedure, and the prize acquisition device management data 550c which is a copy of the prize acquisition device management data 550 of the prize acquisition device 1200 selected as the play device and acquired from the server system 1100, and the current date and time 800 that is updated in real time.

[0201] [Description of Operations] Next, the operation of the prize acquisition system 1000 in this embodiment will be described. FIG. 17 is a flowchart for explaining the flow of prediction-related processing, and in this embodiment, it is periodically executed by the server system 1100.

[0202] The server system 1100 refers to the play device list 690 (see FIG. 10) and executes loop A for each non-play state prize acquisition device 1200 that is not used for remote operation play (steps S10 to S70).

[0203] In loop A, the server system 1100 creates prediction management data 650 (see FIG. 14), transmits a predetermined request signal to the processing target device, and acquires prediction determination data 660 (step S12).

[0204] Next, the server system 1100 executes prediction processing for the device to be processed using the prediction dictionary data 510 indicated by the usage prediction dictionary data name 560 of the prize acquisition device management data 550 (see FIG. 12) of the device to be processed (step S14).

[0205] FIG. 18 is a flowchart for explaining the flow of the prediction processing. In this process, the server system 1100 first performs image recognition of prize 4 from the first prize status image data 661 and the second prize status image data 663 (step S40). Next, based on the first prize status image data 661, the second prize status image data 663, the first depth measurement data 665, and the second depth measurement data 667, the contour line is extracted to recognize prize 4 (step S42).

[0206] Next, the server system 1100 integrates the recognition results so as to exclude overlapping prizes from the results of recognizing prizes from the color image and the contour line respectively (step S44). Then, for each recognized prize, a prize that satisfies the acquisition possibility improvement condition definition data 530 (see FIG. 11) is searched for (step S46). That is, "prizes that seem easy to obtain" are found, and acquisition prediction prize data 670 (see FIG. 14) is created for each searched prize (step S48), and the prediction processing ends.

[0207] Returning to FIG. 17, the server system 1100 then executes post-prediction processing for the device to be processed in loop A (step S60). FIG. 19 is a flowchart for explaining the flow of the post-prediction processing. In this process, the server system 1100 determines whether there are prizes that seem easy to obtain within the play space 1202 of the device to be processed (step S61). This determination is also a determination as to whether the notification condition, which is a condition for performing the notification state display, is satisfied.

[0208] If there is no predicted prize acquisition data 670 in the prediction management data 650 (see FIG. 14) of the device to be processed, step S61 results in a negative determination (NO in step S61), and the server system 1100 ends the post-prediction processing.

[0209] On the other hand, if there is predicted prize acquisition data 670, step S61 results in a positive determination (YES in step S61), and the server system 1100 changes one or more of the play price, acceptable payment method, time limit, and service points of the device to be processed (step S62). Specifically, these values are set according to the play price setting function 555, payment method setting pattern data 556, service point setting function 557, and time limit setting function 558 of the prize acquisition device management data 550 (see FIG. 12) of the device to be processed. Then, the applicable play price 570, acceptable payment method list 571, applicable time limit 572, and applicable service point 573 are set.

[0210] Next, the server system 1100 notifies the registered user (step S64). Specifically, for users whose prize type 672 of the predicted prize acquisition data 670 matches the notification desired prize type 612 (see FIG. 13) or users who have not set the notification desired prize type 612, notification is performed using the notification destination access information stored in the personal information registration data 605. At that time, notification regarding the change of play price, acceptable payment method, time limit, and service points shall also be performed.

[0211] Next, the server system 1100 performs a process of recruiting desired users who wish to play with the device to be processed (step S66), determines the play order of the applying users, and sends a result notification to the next user to play (step S68), and ends the post-prediction processing.

[0212] Returning to FIG. 17, when the post-prediction processing is completed, loop A is ended (step S70). Then, when loop A is executed for all prize acquisition devices 1200 in the non-play state, the series of processes shown in FIG. 17 is ended.

[0213] FIG. 20 is a flowchart for explaining the processing flow related to login. In the present embodiment, the server system 1100 receives and executes a login request from the user terminal 1500.

[0214] In this process, after account authentication (step S100), the server system 1100 causes the user terminal 1500 to display a desired prize selection screen W3 (see FIG. 5) and accepts a selection input of the prize to be acquired (step S102).

[0215] The server system 1100 searches for an unused prize acquisition device 1200 that can acquire the selected type of prize (step S104), causes the user terminal 1500 to display a play device selection screen W4, and accepts a selection of the prize acquisition device 1200 to be used in the prize acquisition play (step S106). At this time, on the play device selection screen W4, if there is a prize that is likely to be won by the device, a notification indicating this is displayed. In addition, a notification indicating that the play price or the like has changed is also displayed.

[0216] Since the user terminal 1500 returns the prize acquisition device ID of the selected prize acquisition device 1200 to the server system 1100, the server system 1100 receives this and sets the prize acquisition device 1200 with the received prize acquisition device ID as the play device of the player in the play device list 690. Then, prize acquisition device management data 550 (see FIG. 12) including access information to the prize acquisition device 1200 that is the play device is transmitted to the user terminal 1500 (step S108). The user terminal 1500 receives this and stores it as prize acquisition device management data 550c (see FIG. 16).

[0217] FIG. 21 is a flowchart for explaining the remote operation play process. In the present embodiment, the server system 1100 executes this for the user terminal 1500 in which the prize acquisition device 1200 that is the play device is registered.

[0218] First, the server system 1100 refers to the applicable play consideration 570 and the applicable service points 573 of the prize acquisition device management data 550 (see FIG. 12) of the prize acquisition device 1200, which is a play device, and executes play consideration payment processing and service point awarding processing (step S110).

[0219] Next, the server system 1100 starts displaying a remote operation screen on the user terminal 1500 (step S112). Along with this, the timing of the time limit for remote operation play is started.

[0220] Also, when there are prizes that seem easy to obtain with the display of the remote operation screen (YES in step S114), the server system 1100 displays an explicit display 10, a guide display 12, and a hint display 14 in the live monitor image 38 of the remote operation screen (step S116). Specifically, the explicit display 10 is realized by highlighting the contour line data 677 at the prize position coordinates 673 of the predicted prize acquisition data 670 (see FIG. 14). Or, it is displayed using the notification state display material data 538 of the acquisition possibility improvement condition definition data 530 of the prediction dictionary data 510 (see FIG. 11) indicated by the use prediction dictionary data name 653. The guide display 12 can also be realized by displaying a perpendicular line passing through the prize on the live monitor image 38 based on the prize position coordinates 673. The hint display 14 uses the corresponding notification state display material data 538.

[0221] Then, the server system 1100 performs remote operation control (step S118). The remote operation control is executed according to the game rules in the prize acquisition device 1200, which is a play device.

[0222] For example, when the user terminal 1500 detects a touch operation on the movement operation icon 35 (see FIG. 5), it sends a predetermined input signal to the server system 1100. Therefore, if it is within the limited time, the server system 1100 sends a remote operation signal corresponding to the input signal received once each in the first direction and the second direction to the play device. When the limited time is reached, an action sequence start signal is sent to the play device regardless of whether the input in the first direction and the second direction has ended.

[0223] Also, when the user terminal 1500 detects a touch operation on the action sequence start operation icon 36 (see FIG. 5), it sends a predetermined input signal to the server system 1100. Therefore, even if there is remaining limited time, the server system 1100 sends an action sequence start signal to the play device.

[0224] When the play device receives the remote operation signal, it controls the movement of the crane unit 1210. When it receives the action sequence start signal, it regards the positioning sequence as completed and executes the action sequence and the end operation sequence. Then, after the completion of the end operation sequence, a predetermined completion signal is sent to the server system 1100.

[0225] Next, the server system 1100 performs a prize acquisition determination (step S120). If the prize acquisition area 1260 (see FIG. 3) is a virtual area, when the prize 4 can be successfully moved to the prize acquisition area 1260 by the action sequence and the end operation sequence, it is determined by image recognition whether the prize 4 is located in the area from the captured image of the video camera 1220 at the completion of the end operation sequence, and the prize type and the number of acquired prizes are determined.

[0226] If the prize acquisition area 1260 is a physical opening leading to the communication path 1264, after the completion of the end operation sequence, the prize acquisition device 1200 is configured to send the detection number at the prize acquisition number detection sensor 1266 together with the completion signal, and the determination is made by receiving this.

[0227] FIG. 22 is a flowchart for explaining the flow of the premium shipping procedure. This process is executed when it is determined that a premium has been acquired. In this embodiment, it is executed by the server system 1100.

[0228] In this process, when the acquired premium is a substitute premium (YES in step S130) and a plurality of premiums are acquired simultaneously in one premium acquisition play (YES in step S132), the server system 1100 changes to upgrade the type of premium to be shipped according to the number of acquisitions (step S134). Then, the shipping procedure process is executed (step S136).

[0229] As described above, according to this embodiment, by performing the notification state display according to the arrangement status of the premium 4 in the play space 1202 of the play device, it is possible to clearly show the user the existence of premiums that are likely to be obtained, and to provide support such as showing a guide for remote operation, thereby improving the attractiveness of the premium acquisition system 1000 more than before.

[0230] In addition, by notifying registered users that there are premiums that are likely to be obtained, it is possible to actively provide users with opportunities to obtain premiums, and to increase the chance of improving revenue by improving the operating rate of the corresponding premium acquisition device 1200.

[0231] In addition, for the premium acquisition device 1200 where there are premiums that are likely to be obtained, by changing the play price, changing the limited time, or changing the service points, it is possible to enhance the interest of the game more than before. For example, if there are premiums that are likely to be obtained, but the play price is high or the limited time is short, it is possible to create a high-risk, high-return situation. If the service points are increased more than usual, it will encourage users who are a little hesitant in the high-risk, high-return situation and allow them to enjoy the thrilling feeling that they cannot usually enjoy.

[0232] 〔Second Embodiment〕 Next, a second embodiment to which the present invention is applied will be described. This embodiment is basically the same as the first embodiment, except that the execution entities for prediction processing, post-prediction processing, remote operation control, etc. are the user terminal 1500 instead of the server system 1100. In the description of this embodiment, the same reference numerals are given to the same components as in the first embodiment, and redundant descriptions are omitted, and mainly the differences from the first embodiment will be described.

[0233] FIG. 23 is a diagram showing the main functional configuration of the server system 1100 in this embodiment and examples of programs and data stored in the server storage unit 500s. The server system 1100 of this embodiment realizes a user management unit 202, an online shopping management unit 204, a prize acquisition system management unit 206, a prize shipping procedure processing unit 242, and a timing unit 280s by executing the server program 501B.

[0234] Compared with the functional configuration of the first embodiment, the prediction unit 210, the post-prediction processing unit 220, the game management unit 230, and the notification desired prize setting unit 240 are omitted.

[0235] Also, since the execution entities for prediction processing, post-prediction processing, remote operation control, etc. are the user terminal 1500 instead of the server system 1100, the prediction management data 650 and the play data 700 are omitted from the server storage unit 500s.

[0236] The prize acquisition device management data 550 is stored as original data for distribution to the user terminal 1500, but the applicable play consideration 570, the allowable payment method list 571, the applicable restriction time 572, and the applicable service point 573 remain set to the initial values (see FIG. 12). Also, the desired user recruitment data 574 and the play order list 575 are omitted.

[0237] FIG. 24 is a diagram showing the main functional configuration of the user terminal 1500 in this embodiment and examples of programs and data stored in the terminal storage unit 500. The user terminal 1500 in this embodiment realizes the functions of a login request unit 266, a prediction unit 210, a post-prediction processing unit 220, a game management unit 230, and a timing unit 280 by executing a game program 593 obtained by downloading a distribution game program 503.

[0238] The login request unit 266 accesses the server system 1100 to perform a login procedure, and performs a process of acquiring a copy of each of the prediction dictionary data 510, the prize acquisition device management data 550, and the play device list 690. The acquired copies are stored in the terminal storage unit 500 as prediction dictionary data 510c, prize acquisition device management data 550c, and play device list 690c, respectively.

[0239] In addition, in this embodiment, as the prediction unit 210, the post-prediction processing unit 220, and the game management unit 230 are realized in the user terminal 1500, prediction management data 650 and play data 700 are stored in the terminal storage unit 500.

[0240] In the prize acquisition system 1000 of this embodiment, the flowcharts described in FIGS. 17 to 19 are executed with the user terminal 1500 as the execution subject. The interaction performed between the server system 1100 and the prize acquisition device 1200 in the first embodiment will be performed between the user terminal 1500 and the prize acquisition device 1200 in this embodiment.

[0241] In addition, the flowchart described in FIG. 21 is also executed with the user terminal 1500 as the execution subject. Of course, the interaction performed between the server system 1100 and the prize acquisition device 1200 in the first embodiment will be performed between the user terminal 1500 and the prize acquisition device 1200 in this embodiment. In that case, for processes involving updates to the user management data 600 stored and managed by the server system 1100, such as payment of play consideration and granting of service points, a request is appropriately made to the server system 1100, and the server system 1100 is made to execute the process.

[0242] As described above, according to the present embodiment, the same effects as those of the first embodiment can be obtained.

[0243] 〔Third Embodiment〕 Next, a third embodiment to which the present invention is applied will be described. In the description of the present embodiment, the same reference numerals are given to the same components as those in the first embodiment and the second embodiment, and redundant descriptions are omitted, and mainly the differences from the first embodiment and the second embodiment will be described.

[0244] FIG. 25 is a diagram showing a hardware configuration example of the prize acquisition system 1000C in the present embodiment. The prize acquisition system 1000C includes a prize acquisition device 1200st that functions stand-alone, and a user terminal 1500C that has an electronic payment function by short-range wireless communication and a function of receiving various notifications. The prize acquisition device 1200st and the user terminal 1500C are each equipped with a short-range wireless module, and when they approach each other within the communication range, they are automatically paired and connected communicably.

[0245] The prize acquisition device 1200st is not an online-connected and remotely-operated game device like those in the first and second embodiments, but is a device that the user 2 directly operates and plays. Therefore, an operation console 1204 is provided on the front of the device, and various operation input devices (in the illustrated example, a movement operation button 1205 and an action sequence start button 1206) are provided on the upper surface of the operation console 1204. In addition, the operation console 1204 is provided with a cash acceptance device 1207 into which cash (for example, coins) can be inserted as a means of paying the play price, an electronic payment terminal 1208 for realizing communication payment of the play medium through the user terminal 1500C, and a flat panel display 1209.

[0246] FIG. 26 is a diagram showing the main functional configuration of the prize acquisition device 1200st of the present embodiment and examples of programs and data stored in the acquisition device storage unit 500k. The acquisition device processing unit 200k of the prize acquisition device 1200st functions as a prediction unit 210, a post-prediction processing unit 220, a play operation control unit 258, and a timing unit 280 by reading and executing the control program 505C.

[0247] The play operation control unit 258 controls the execution of a prize acquisition play by direct operation according to an operation input from an operation input device provided on the operation console 1204.

[0248] The acquisition device storage unit 500k stores prize acquisition device management data 550 of the device, prediction dictionary data 510 to be used, prediction management data 650, play data 700, and a pairing terminal list 780.

[0249] In the prize acquisition system 1000C of the present embodiment, the flowcharts described in FIGS. 17 to 19 are executed with the prize acquisition device 1200st as the execution subject. The communication performed between the server system 1100 and the prize acquisition device 1200 in the first embodiment is self-contained within the prize acquisition device 1200 in the present embodiment.

[0250] Regarding post-prediction processing, the execution of the notification state display is omitted. Notifications regarding changes in the play price, acceptable payment method, and service points are also made on the flat panel display 1209. Notifications to registered users are made to the terminals registered in the pairing terminal list 780. It is assumed that the application corresponding to the notification is executed on the user terminal 1500C. The recruitment of prospective users and the setting of the play order of applying users are omitted.

[0251] 〔Modification Example〕 As described above, examples of embodiments to which the present invention is applied have been described. However, the forms to which the present invention can be applied are not limited to the above forms, and components can be added, omitted, or changed as appropriate.

[0252] [Modification Example 1] For example, an intermediate form between the first embodiment and the second embodiment can also be configured. Specifically, a configuration in which the game management unit 230 of the first embodiment is realized by the user terminal 1500 is also possible.

[0253] [Modification Example 2] Also, in the above embodiment, the prediction process is realized by pattern matching based on a photographed image of the prize situation or the measurement result of the depth sensor in a successful case in a test play executed in advance. However, it may also be realized by a machine learning model using AI.

[0254] [Modification Example 3] Also, in the above embodiment, the prize acquisition mechanism that moves inside the play space 1202 by remote control is exemplified as the crane unit 1210. However, configurations other than the crane are also possible. For example, a prize acquisition mechanism that functions as a scoop or shovel for scooping up prizes, a hook for hooking prizes, a pusher for pushing prizes, etc. may be adopted.

[0255] Also, depending on the function of the adopted prize acquisition mechanism, in the above embodiment, the two-dimensional movement directions of the left-right direction and the front-back direction of the device can be changed to the left-right direction and the up-down direction of the device. Specifically, for example, various prizes are hung at various locations on the back wall surface of the play space. Then, a positioning sequence in which a hook-like prize acquisition mechanism for hooking prizes is adopted and moved in the left-right direction and the up-down direction for positioning, and a catch sequence in which the hook part is extended in the depth direction of the device after positioning are provided. The player can remotely operate and move the prize acquisition mechanism in the left-right direction (first direction) and the up-down direction (second direction) of the device, aim at one of the prizes in the prize group, and hook and drop it with the hook of the prize acquisition mechanism to obtain it. The present invention can also be applied to such a prize acquisition system.

[0256] [Modification Example 4] Also, depending on the rules for prize acquisition, the prize acquisition device 1200 in the above embodiment can be replaced with a device that moves an object to earn points for prize acquisition.

[0257] Specifically, instead of acquiring a prize by moving the prize 4 itself to the prize acquisition area 1260 as in the above embodiment, a rule can be set such that points are awarded each time an object (prize) is moved to a predetermined position by the crane unit 1210, and a prize corresponding to the finally acquired points is awarded. In this case, the prize acquisition device 1200 in the above embodiment can be used as a device for earning points. The improvement status conditions in this configuration can be described as conditions only regarding ease of movement.

[0258] [Modification Example 5] Also, the prize acquisition mechanism employed by the prize acquisition device 1200 is not limited to movement by the crane unit 1210. For example, a mechanism can be adopted in which there is no or very little room to move the prize 4 until it is acquired, such as removing the hook to which the prize 4 is hooked or knocking down the pillar or bridge on which the prize 4 is placed. The improvement status conditions in this configuration can be described as conditions only regarding the possibility of prize acquisition.

Explanation of Reference Numerals

[0259] 4... Prize 5... Substitute Prize 10... Explicit Display 12... Guide Display 14... Hint Display 34... Remaining Time Display 35... Movement Operation Icon 36... Action Sequence Start Operation Icon 37... Camera Switching Operation Icon 38... Live Monitor Image 200s... Server Processing Unit 206... Prize Acquisition System Management Unit 210... Prediction Unit 212... Prediction Judgment Data Acquisition Control Unit 220… Prediction post-processing unit 222… Play price setting unit 223… Payment method setting unit 224… Time limit setting unit 225… Notification control unit 226… Desired user recruitment control unit 227… Play order determination unit 230… Game management unit 232… Play device selection unit 233… Monitor image display control unit 234… AR image display control unit 235… Notification status display control unit 240… Notification desired prize setting unit 242… Prize delivery procedure processing unit 254… Remote play operation control unit 256… Prize acquisition number providing unit 500s… Server storage unit 501… Server program 510… Prediction dictionary data 530… Acquisition possibility improvement condition definition data 532… Condition description data 535… Distance condition data 536… Prize number condition 537… Acquisition prediction probability 538… Notification status display material data 550… Prize acquisition device management data 552… Access information 553… Prize type 555… Play price setting function 556… Payment method setting pattern data 557… Service point setting function 558… Time limit setting function 562… AR box recognition dictionary data 564… Standard AR image data 570… Applicable play price 571… Allowable payment method list 572… Applicable time limit 573… Applicable service point 574… Desired user recruitment data 575…Play order list 600…User management data 612…Desired prize type for notification 650…Prediction management data 660…Data for prediction determination 670…Predicted prize data for acquisition 672…Prize type 673…Prize position coordinates 674…Prize pose 675…Distance 676…Predicted acquisition probability 1000…Prize acquisition system 1100…Server system 1200…Prize acquisition device 1210…Crane section 1220…Video camera 1230…Prize status camera 1240…Depth sensor 1500…User terminal W3…Desired prize selection screen W4…Play device selection screen W5…Remote operation screen

Claims

A prize acquisition device capable of remote operation play for moving an AR (Augmented Reality) box arranged in a play space by remotely operating a crane unit, and a user terminal that remotely operates the prize acquisition device as a play device by a logged-in player using the player's user terminal, a server system capable of communication, The prize acquisition device is provided with a camera that captures the play space at a shooting angle of view including the entire width movable range of the crane unit in the shooting range, The AR marker attached to the AR box is associated with the prize indicated by the AR box, There are a plurality of devices in the prize acquisition device, Remote operation play processing means for determining the play device from among the plurality of prize acquisition devices based on the operation of the player and performing control to execute the processing of the remote operation play, Monitor image display control means for performing control to display, on the display unit of the user terminal, a monitor image for displaying a prize image of the prize corresponding to the AR marker based on the captured image of the camera of the play device, Determination means for determining whether or not a predetermined notification condition based on the arrangement state of the AR box in the play space of the play device is satisfied, Notification state display control means for setting the display of the monitor image to a notification state display by changing at least the prize image when a positive determination is made by the determination means, A server system comprising the above. A prize acquisition device capable of remote operation play for moving an AR (Augmented Reality) box arranged in a play space by remotely operating a crane unit, and a user terminal that remotely operates the prize acquisition device as a play device by a logged-in player using the player's user terminal, a server system capable of communication, The prize acquisition device is provided with a camera that captures the play space at a shooting angle of view including the entire width movable range of the crane unit in the shooting range, The AR marker attached to the AR box is associated with a given prize indicated by the AR box, There are a plurality of devices in the prize acquisition device, Remote operation play processing means for determining the play device from among the plurality of prize acquisition devices based on the operation of the player and performing control to execute the processing of the remote operation play, Storage means for storing prize image data of the prize corresponding to the AR marker, Monitor image display control means for performing control to display, on the display unit of the user terminal, a monitor image that displays a prize image based on the prize image data corresponding to the AR marker stored in the storage means, based on the captured image of the camera of the play device; Determination means for determining whether or not a predetermined notification condition based on the arrangement state of the AR box in the play space of the play device is satisfied; Notification state display control means for setting the display of the monitor image as a notification state display when a positive determination is made by the determination means; A server system comprising:

3. Different AR markers are attached to different surfaces of the AR box, The storage means stores, in association with each AR marker, prize image data when the prize is viewed from different directions, The monitor image display control means performs control to display, on the display unit of the user terminal, a monitor image that displays a prize image based on the prize image data corresponding to the AR marker shown in the captured image, at the position of the AR marker; The server system according to claim 2.

4. The notification condition includes at least an improvement situation condition defined as a condition indicating that the mobility and / or acquirability of the prize is improved; The server system according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. Play price setting means for variably setting the play price for each prize acquisition play by remote operation according to the determination result of the determination means, The server system according to claim 4, further comprising:

6. The moving operation of the crane unit in the remote operation play needs to be performed within a given limit time, Limit time setting means for variably setting the limit time according to the determination result of the determination means, The server system according to claim 4 or 5, further comprising:

7. The improvement situation condition includes conditions for stepwise determination of the improved situation, When it is determined by the determination means that the notification condition is satisfied by satisfying the improvement situation condition, the notification state display control means performs control to set different notification state displays according to which of the stepwise determination conditions is satisfied; The server system according to any one of claims 4 to 6.

8. A prize acquisition area is set in the prize acquisition device, The upward situation condition includes at least a condition related to the distance between the prize and the prize acquisition area. The server system according to any one of claims 4 to 7.

9. The upward situation condition includes at least a condition related to the arrangement posture of the prize. The server system according to any one of claims 4 to 8.

10. The notification condition includes at least a condition related to the number of the prizes in the play space. The server system according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

11. The determination means determines whether the arrangement situation that satisfies the notification condition is present based on the captured image of the camera of the play device. The server system according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

12. A control method for a server system capable of communication between a prize acquisition device capable of remote operation play for moving an AR (Augmented Reality) box arranged in a play space by remotely operating a crane unit, and a user terminal that a player who logs in remotely operates with the player's user terminal using the prize acquisition device as a play device, The prize acquisition device is provided with a camera that captures the play space at a shooting angle of view including the entire width movable range of the crane unit in the shooting range. An AR marker attached to the AR box is associated with a prize indicated by the AR box. There are a plurality of the prize acquisition devices. A remote operation play processing step for determining the play device from among the plurality of prize acquisition devices based on the operation of the player and performing control to execute the processing of the remote operation play. A monitor image display control step for performing control to display, on the display unit of the user terminal, a monitor image for displaying a prize image of the prize corresponding to the AR marker based on the captured image of the camera of the play device. A determination step for determining whether or not a predetermined notification condition based on the arrangement situation of the AR box in the play space of the play device is satisfied. A notification state display control step for setting the display of the monitor image to a notification state display by changing at least the prize image when an affirmative determination is made in the determination step. A control method including the above. A control method for a server system capable of communicating with a prize acquisition device that enables remote operation play to move an AR (Augmented Reality) box placed in a play space by remotely operating a crane unit, and a user terminal that remotely operates the prize acquisition device as a play device by a logged-in player on the player's user terminal, comprising: The prize acquisition device is provided with a camera that captures the play space at a shooting angle of view that includes the entire width movable range of the crane unit in the shooting range; The AR marker attached to the AR box is associated with a given prize indicated by the AR box; There are a plurality of devices in the prize acquisition device; The server system includes storage means for storing prize image data of the prize corresponding to the AR marker; A remote operation play processing step of determining the play device from among the plurality of prize acquisition devices based on the operation of the player and performing control to execute the processing of the remote operation play; A monitor image display control step of reading out the prize image data corresponding to the AR marker stored in the storage means based on the captured image of the camera of the play device and displaying a monitor image showing a prize image based on the prize image data on the display unit of the user terminal; A determination step of determining whether or not a predetermined notification condition based on the arrangement state of the AR box in the play space of the play device is satisfied; A notification state display control step of setting the display of the monitor image to a notification state display when a positive determination is made in the determination step; A control method including the above steps.

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