Information processing device

Abstract

This information processing device comprises: an acquisition unit that acquires status information regarding a status of an avatar corresponding to a first user in a virtual space; and a display control unit that, on the basis of the status information satisfying a first condition regarding the status, causes a display device used by a second user to display a first character as the avatar, and that, on the basis of the status information satisfying a second condition regarding the status without satisfying the first condition, causes the display device to display a second character as the avatar, the second character being specified on the basis of the relationship between the first user and the second user.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an information processing device. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 describes a device that displays an avatar of a second user on a terminal used by a first user. This device displays the avatar of the second user on the terminal in a display mode based on the relationship between the first and second users. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2014-6881 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] There may be a need to control the display of avatars using a method different from the method described in Patent Document 1. For example, there may be a need to use a specific character as an avatar when certain conditions are met, regardless of the relationship between users.

[0005] An object of the present invention is to provide an information processing device that can meet the needs of users who wish to use a specific character as an avatar, regardless of the relationship between the users, when certain conditions are met. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] An information processing device according to one embodiment includes an acquisition unit that acquires situation information regarding a situation in a virtual space of an avatar corresponding to a first user, and a display control unit that, based on the situation information satisfying a first condition regarding the situation, causes a display device used by a second user to display a first character as the avatar, and, based on the situation information not satisfying the first condition but satisfying a second condition regarding the situation, causes the display device to display a second character identified based on the relationship between the first user and the second user as the avatar. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to one aspect, if certain conditions are met, it is possible to meet the needs of users who want to use a specific character as an avatar regardless of the relationship between the users. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram schematically illustrating a display control system 1. [Figure 2] 1 is a diagram showing an example of the appearance of a display device 10. FIG. [Figure 3] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of user information T11. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of avatar information T21. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of display control information T31. [Figure 6] 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a display device 10. FIG. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of avatar-related information T41. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of user information T12. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of avatar information T22. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of display control information T32. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of avatar-related information T42. [Figure 12] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of an avatar management device 30. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of user information T1. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of avatar information T2. [Figure 15] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of display control information T3. [Figure 16] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of avatar-related information T4. [Figure 17] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of the operation of the avatar management device 30 based on display control information T31 of user A1. [Figure 18] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a display example of a character B11a. [Figure 19] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a display example of a character B12a. [Figure 20] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of the operation of the avatar management device 30 based on display control information T32 of user A2. [Figure 21] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a display example of a character B21a. [Figure 22] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a display example of a character B22a. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] A: First embodiment A1: Display control system 1 1 is a diagram schematically illustrating a display control system 1. The display control system 1 includes a plurality of display devices and an avatar management device 30. The plurality of display devices include display devices 10 and 20. The plurality of display devices may also include display devices different from the display devices 10 and 20.

[0010] Each of the display devices 10 and 20 is, for example, smart glasses. Smart glasses are glasses-type display devices. Smart glasses are, for example, VR (Virtual Reality) glasses or AR (Augmented Reality) glasses. Smart glasses are also called XR (X Reality) glasses or HMD (Head Mounted Display). At least one of the display devices 10 and 20 is not limited to smart glasses and may be, for example, a display device that is not glasses-type. At least one of the display devices 10 and 20 means, for example, "display device 10," "display device 20," or "display devices 10 and 20." A display device that is not glasses-type is, for example, a smartphone, a tablet, a personal computer, or a game device.

[0011] The display device 10 is used by a user A1. The user A1 is an example of a first user. The user A1 is not an example of a first user, but may be an example of a second user. The display device 10 communicates with the avatar management device 30 via a communication line NW. The display device 10 may communicate with the avatar management device 30 via a communication device such as a smartphone and the communication line NW. The display device 10 may communicate with the avatar management device 30 without using the communication line NW. The display device 10 has a display unit 11.

[0012] The display device 20 is used by a user A2. When the user A1 is an example of a first user, the user A2 is an example of a second user. When the user A1 is an example of a second user, the user A2 is an example of a first user. The display device 20 communicates with the avatar management device 30 via a communication line NW. The display device 20 may communicate with the avatar management device 30 via a communication device such as a smartphone and the communication line NW. The display device 20 may communicate with the avatar management device 30 without using the communication line NW. The display device 20 has a display unit 21.

[0013] The avatar management device 30 manages avatar B1, avatar B2, and a virtual space. Avatar B1 is an avatar corresponding to user A1. Avatar B1 is used as an alter ego for user A1. Avatar B2 is an avatar corresponding to user A2. Avatar B2 is used as an alter ego for user A2. The avatar management device 30 positions avatar B1 and avatar B2 in the virtual space.

[0014] The virtual space is a virtual three-dimensional space generated by the avatar management device 30. The virtual space is not limited to a virtual three-dimensional space, but may be a virtual two-dimensional space. The virtual space includes, for example, an area where a school is located, an area where a costume hall is located, and an area where neither a school nor a costume hall is located. The area where neither a school nor a costume hall is located includes, for example, an area where a plaza is located and an area where a store is located. A coordinate system is applied to the virtual space to determine positions within the virtual space. Positions within the virtual space are determined by coordinates based on the coordinate system.

[0015] The avatar management device 30 displays an avatar B1 corresponding to user A1 on a display device 20 used by user A2. The avatar management device 30 displays an avatar B2 corresponding to user A2 on a display device 10 used by user A1. The avatar management device 30 may display the avatars B1 and B2 on the display devices 10 and 20, respectively.

[0016] A2:Display device 10 Fig. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the appearance of the display device 10. The display device 10 shown in Fig. 2 is an eyeglass-type display device such as smart glasses. The display device 10 includes temples 91 and 92, a bridge 93, body portions 94 and 95, and a display unit 11. The display unit 11 includes a display unit 11L for the left eye and a display unit 11R for the right eye.

[0017] When the display device 10 is worn by the user A1, the left eye display unit 11L is located in front of the left eye A1L of the user A1, and the right eye display unit 11R is located in front of the right eye A1R of the user A1. The left eye display unit 11L and the right eye display unit 11R display, for example, an avatar B2.

[0018] The display device 10 is connected to a controller 96 via a wired or wireless connection. The controller 96 may be a dedicated controller or a general-purpose device such as a smartphone. The controller 96 includes an operation unit 96a operated by the user A1. The operation unit 96a includes a plurality of operation buttons or a touch panel. The operation unit 96a may include both a plurality of operation buttons and a touch panel. The controller 96 accepts various operations performed by the user A1 via the operation unit 96a.

[0019] For example, the controller 96 receives a registration operation from the user A1. The registration operation is an operation for registering information for controlling the avatar B1. Upon receiving the registration operation, the controller 96 generates first registration information, which is information for controlling the avatar B1. The first registration information includes user information T11, avatar information T21, and display control information T31.

[0020] 3 is a diagram showing an example of user information T11. User information T11 is information about user A1. User information T11 indicates user A1a, character B11, character B12, and user A2a. In user information T11, user A1a, character B11, character B12, and user A2a are associated with one another.

[0021] User A1a is a user ID (identifier) ​​that identifies user A1. The user ID that identifies user A1 is not limited to user A1a, and may be, for example, U-A1.

[0022] Character B11 is a real avatar ID that identifies the real avatar of user A1. User A1's real avatar is an avatar that represents the appearance of user A1. For example, user A1's real avatar is a 3D (Three Dimensional) model avatar that represents the appearance of user A1. User A1's real avatar is not limited to a 3D model avatar that represents the appearance of user A1, but may also be a 2D (Two Dimensional) model avatar that represents the appearance of user A1. The real avatar ID that identifies user A1's real avatar is not limited to character B11, but may be, for example, C-B11. Character B11 is also a character ID that identifies a character.

[0023] Character B12 is a non-real avatar ID that identifies a non-real avatar of user A1. User A1's non-real avatar is an avatar that is different from user A1's real avatar. The non-real avatar ID that identifies user A1's non-real avatar is not limited to character B12 and may be, for example, C-B12. Character B12 is also a character ID.

[0024] User A2a is a user ID that identifies user A2, who is an acquaintance of user A1. The user ID that identifies user A2 is not limited to user A2a, and may be, for example, U-A2.

[0025] Here, we will briefly explain how to use user A1's real avatar and user A1's non-real avatar. User A1's real avatar is an avatar that represents the appearance of user A1. Therefore, user A1's real avatar may correspond to user A1's personal information. In order to protect user A1's real avatar (user A1's personal information), the display control system 1 automatically alternates between user A1's real avatar and user A1's non-real avatar. Note that user A1's real avatar and user A1's non-real avatar are each an example of an avatar B1 corresponding to user A1.

[0026] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of avatar information T21. Avatar information T21 is information indicating an example of a real avatar for user A1 and an example of a non-real avatar for user A1. Avatar information T21 indicates character B11a associated with character B11, which is a character ID, and character B12a associated with character B12, which is a character ID. Character B11a is an example of a real avatar for user A1. If user A1 is an example of a first user, character B11a is an example of a first character. The appearance of character B11a is not limited to the appearance shown in FIG. 4 and can be changed as appropriate. Character B12a is an example of a non-real avatar for user A1. If user A1 is an example of a first user, character B12a is an example of a third character. The appearance of character B12a is not limited to the appearance shown in FIG. 4 and can be changed as appropriate. The degree of match between the appearance of the character B11a and the appearance of the user A1 is higher than the degree of match between the appearance of the character B12a and the appearance of the user A1.

[0027] 5 is a diagram showing an example of display control information T31. Display control information T31 is information for controlling avatar B1 corresponding to user A1.

[0028] The display control information T31 indicates that when the avatar B1 is located in a school in the virtual space, the real avatar of the user A1 (for example, the character B11a) is displayed as the avatar B1.

[0029] Display control information T31 indicates that when avatar B1 is located in an area other than a school in the virtual space (for example, a plaza in the virtual space), the real avatar of user A1 is displayed as avatar B1 to users who are acquaintances of user A1.

[0030] Display control information T31 indicates that when avatar B1 is located in an area other than the school in the virtual space, a non-real avatar of user A1 (for example, character B12a) is displayed as avatar B1 to users who are not acquainted with user A1.

[0031] The display control information T31 is not limited to the form shown in Fig. 5 and can be changed as appropriate. For example, the display control information T31 may indicate "workplace" or "wedding hall" instead of "school."

[0032] The controller 96 shown in FIG. 2 provides the display device 10 with first registration information including user information T11, avatar information T21, and display control information T31.

[0033] In addition to the registration operation, the controller 96 also receives an avatar placement operation. The avatar placement operation is an operation for placing the avatar B1 in the virtual space. The avatar B1 is placed at a specific position in the virtual space by the avatar placement operation. The specific position may be a predetermined position or may be a position selected by the user A1 from a plurality of position candidates.

[0034] When the controller 96 receives the avatar placement operation, it generates avatar placement information T51. The avatar placement information T51 is information that indicates the position of the avatar B1 in the virtual space. The controller 96 provides the avatar placement information T51 to the display device 10.

[0035] The controller 96 receives an avatar position change operation in addition to the registration operation and the avatar placement operation. The avatar position change operation is an operation for changing the position of the avatar B1 in the virtual space. Upon receiving the avatar position change operation, the controller 96 generates position change information T61. The position change information T61 is information indicating a change in the position of the avatar B1 in the virtual space. For example, the position change information T61 indicates a movement distance corresponding to the avatar position change operation and a movement direction corresponding to the avatar position change operation. The controller 96 provides the position change information T61 to the display device 10.

[0036] 6 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of display device 10. In addition to display unit 11, display device 10 includes connection unit 12, communication device 13, storage device 14, processing device 15, and bus 16. Display unit 11, connection unit 12, communication device 13, storage device 14, and processing device 15 are interconnected by bus 16 for communicating information. Bus 16 may be configured using a single bus, or may be configured using different buses between each device.

[0037] The connection unit 12 is connected to the controller 96 via a wired or wireless connection. The connection unit 12 receives, from the controller 96, first registration information (user information T11, avatar information T21, and display control information T31), avatar placement information T51, and position change information T61.

[0038] Communication device 13 communicates with avatar management device 30 via a communication line NW. Communication device 13 may communicate with avatar management device 30 via a communication device such as a smartphone and the communication line NW. Communication device 13 may also communicate with avatar management device 30 without via the communication line NW.

[0039] The storage device 14 is a recording medium readable by the processing device 15. The storage device 14 includes, for example, a nonvolatile memory and a volatile memory. The nonvolatile memory is, for example, a ROM (Read Only Memory), an EPROM (Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory), and an EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory). The volatile memory is, for example, a RAM (Random Access Memory). The storage device 14 stores a program PG1.

[0040] The processing device 15 includes one or more central processing units (CPUs). The one or more CPUs are an example of one or more processors. Each of the processor and the CPU is an example of a computer.

[0041] The processing device 15 reads the program PG1 from the storage device 14. The processing device 15 executes the program PG1 to function as a position identification unit 151 and an operation control unit 152. At least one of the position identification unit 151 and the operation control unit 152 may be configured by a circuit such as a DSP (Digital Signal Processor), an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), or an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array). At least one of the position identification unit 151 and the operation control unit 152 means, for example, the "position identification unit 151," the "operation control unit 152," or the "position identification unit 151 and the operation control unit 152."

[0042] The position identification unit 151 identifies the current position of the avatar B1 in the virtual space. For example, when the position identification unit 151 acquires avatar placement information T51 from the controller 96 via the connection unit 12, the position identification unit 151 identifies the position indicated by the avatar placement information T51 as the current position of the avatar B1 in the virtual space. After identifying the current position of the avatar B1 in the virtual space, the position identification unit 151 acquires position change information T61 from the controller 96 via the connection unit 12. The position identification unit 151 updates the current position of the avatar B1 in the virtual space based on the position change information T61. For example, the position identification unit 151 first checks the movement direction indicated by the position change information and the movement distance indicated by the position change information. Next, the position identification unit 151 updates the current position of the avatar B1 in the virtual space to a position that is away from the current position by the movement distance in the movement direction. Thereafter, the position identification unit 151 updates the current position of the avatar B1 in the virtual space as described above each time it acquires position change information T61. The position identification unit 151 generates avatar position information indicating the latest current position of the avatar B1 in the virtual space. The avatar position information indicates, for example, three-dimensional coordinates (x1, y1, z1) as the latest current position of the avatar B1 in the virtual space.

[0043] The operation control unit 152 controls the operation of the display device 10. For example, the operation control unit 152 acquires avatar position information from the position identification unit 151. The operation control unit 152 generates avatar-related information T41 including the avatar position information.

[0044] 7 is a diagram showing an example of avatar-related information T41. The avatar-related information T41 indicates a user A1a, which is a user ID, and three-dimensional coordinates (x1, y1, z1), which are avatar position information.

[0045] 6 acquires first registration information (user information T11, avatar information T21, and display control information T31) from the controller 96 via the connection unit 12. The operation control unit 152 transmits the first registration information and avatar-related information T41 simultaneously or separately from the communication device 13 to the avatar management device 30. The operation control unit 152 also displays avatar B2 on the display unit 11 under control of the avatar management device 30.

[0046] The position identification unit 151, the operation control unit 152, and the communication device 13 may be included in the controller 96, rather than in the display device 10. In this case, the controller 96 transmits the first registration information and the avatar-related information T41 from the communication device 13 to the avatar management device 30, either simultaneously or separately.

[0047] A3:Display device 20 The display device 20 includes elements common to the elements included in the display device 10. Therefore, a detailed description of the display device 20 will be omitted.

[0048] The display device 20 transmits the second registration information and the avatar-related information T42 simultaneously or separately to the avatar management device 30. Instead of the display device 20, a controller connected to the display device 20 may transmit the second registration information and the avatar-related information T42 simultaneously or separately to the avatar management device 30. The second registration information is information for controlling the avatar B2. The second registration information includes user information T12, avatar information T22, and display control information T32.

[0049] 8 is a diagram showing an example of user information T12. The user information T12 is information about a user A2. The user information T12 indicates a user A2a, a character B21, a character B12, and a user A1a.

[0050] User A2a in user information T12 is a user ID that identifies user A2. Character B21 is a real avatar ID that identifies a real avatar of user A2. The real avatar of user A2 is an avatar that represents the appearance of user A2. The real avatar ID that identifies the real avatar of user A2 is not limited to character B21, and may be, for example, C-B21. Character B21 is also a character ID that identifies a character.

[0051] Character B22 is a non-real avatar ID that identifies a non-real avatar of user A2. The non-real avatar of user A2 is an avatar that is different from the real avatar of user A2. The non-real avatar ID that identifies the non-real avatar of user A2 is not limited to character B22 and may be, for example, C-B22. Character B22 is also a character ID.

[0052] User A1a in the user information T12 is a user ID that identifies user A1, who is an acquaintance of user A2.

[0053] The real avatar of user A2 and the non-real avatar of user A2 are each an example of avatar B2 corresponding to user A2.

[0054] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of avatar information T22. Avatar information T22 is information indicating an example of a real avatar for user A2 and an example of a non-real avatar for user A2. Avatar information T22 indicates character B21a associated with character B21, which is a character ID, and character B22a associated with character B22, which is a character ID. Character B21a is an example of a real avatar for user A2. The appearance of character B21a is not limited to the appearance shown in FIG. 9 and can be changed as appropriate. Character B22a is an example of a non-real avatar for user A2. The appearance of character B22a is not limited to the appearance shown in FIG. 9 and can be changed as appropriate. The degree of match between the appearance of character B21a and user A2 is higher than the degree of match between the appearance of character B22a and user A2.

[0055] 10 is a diagram showing an example of display control information T32. Display control information T32 is information for controlling avatar B2 corresponding to user A2.

[0056] The display control information T32 indicates that when the avatar B2 is located in the costume hall in the virtual space, a non-real avatar of the user A2 (for example, a character B22a) is displayed as the avatar B2.

[0057] The display control information T32 indicates that when avatar B2 is located in an area other than the costume hall in the virtual space, a real avatar of user A2 (e.g., character B21a) is displayed as avatar B2 to users who are acquaintances of user A2. The area other than the costume hall in the virtual space is, for example, a plaza in the virtual space.

[0058] Display control information T32 indicates that when avatar B2 is located in an area other than the costume venue in the virtual space, a non-real avatar of user A2 is displayed as avatar B2 to users who are not acquainted with user A2.

[0059] The display control information T32 is not limited to the form shown in Fig. 10 and can be changed as appropriate. For example, the display control information T32 may indicate "store" instead of "dress-up venue."

[0060] Fig. 11 is a diagram showing an example of avatar-related information T42. The avatar-related information T42 indicates a user A2a, which is a user ID, and avatar position information indicating the position of avatar B2 in the virtual space. The three-dimensional coordinates (x2, y2, z2) shown in Fig. 11 are an example of avatar position information indicating the position of avatar B2 in the virtual space.

[0061] A4: Avatar management device 30 12 is a diagram showing an example of avatar management device 30. Avatar management device 30 is, for example, a server. Avatar management device 30 is not limited to a server, and may be, for example, a workstation. Avatar management device 30 is an example of an information processing device.

[0062] The avatar management device 30 includes a communication device 31, a storage device 32, a processing device 33, and a bus 34. The communication device 31, the storage device 32, and the processing device 33 are interconnected by the bus 34 for communicating information. The bus 34 may be configured using a single bus, or may be configured using different buses for each element of the device, etc.

[0063] The communication device 31 communicates with each of the display devices 10 and 20 via the communication line NW. The communication device 31 may also communicate with each of the display devices 10 and 20 without via the communication line NW.

[0064] The storage device 32 is a recording medium readable by the processing device 33. The storage device 32 includes, for example, a non-volatile memory and a volatile memory. The storage device 32 stores a program PG2, user information T1, avatar information T2, display control information T3, and avatar-related information T4. The user information T1, avatar information T2, display control information T3, and avatar-related information T4 are registered in the storage device 32 by a registration unit 331, which will be described later.

[0065] 13 is a diagram showing an example of user information T1. The user information T1 is information including user information T11 provided by the display device 10 and user information T12 provided by the display device 20.

[0066] 14 is a diagram showing an example of avatar information T2. ​​Avatar information T2 includes avatar information T21 provided by display device 10 and avatar information T22 provided by display device 20.

[0067] 15 is a diagram showing an example of display control information T3. Display control information T3 is information that includes display control information T31 provided by display device 10 and display control information T32 provided by display device 20.

[0068] 16 is a diagram showing an example of avatar-related information T4. Avatar-related information T4 includes avatar-related information T41 provided by display device 10 and avatar-related information T42 provided by display device 20.

[0069] The processing device 33 shown in FIG. 12 includes one or more CPUs. The processing device 33 reads a program PG2 from the storage device 32. The processing device 33 executes the program PG2 to function as a registration unit 331, an acquisition unit 332, and a display control unit 333. At least one of the registration unit 331, the acquisition unit 332, and the display control unit 333 may be configured with a circuit such as a DSP, an ASIC, or an FPGA. At least one of the registration unit 331, the acquisition unit 332, and the display control unit 333 means the "registration unit 331," the "acquisition unit 332," the "display control unit 333," the "registration unit 331 and the acquisition unit 332," the "registration unit 331 and the display control unit 333," the "acquisition unit 332 and the display control unit 333," or the "registration unit 331, the acquisition unit 332, and the display control unit 333."

[0070] The registration unit 331 acquires first registration information (user information T11, avatar information T21, and display control information T31) and avatar-related information T41 from the display device 10 via the communication device 31. The registration unit 331 acquires second registration information (user information T12, avatar information T22, and display control information T32) and avatar-related information T42 from the display device 20 via the communication device 31.

[0071] The registration unit 331 registers the user information T11 in the storage device 32. The registration unit 331 generates the user information T1 by adding the user information T12 to the user information T11 in the storage device 32. The registration unit 331 may generate the user information T1 by registering the user information T12 in the storage device 32 and then adding the user information T11 to the user information T12 in the storage device 32.

[0072] Registration unit 331 registers avatar information T21 in storage device 32. Registration unit 331 generates avatar information T2 by adding avatar information T22 to avatar information T21 in storage device 32. Registration unit 331 may register avatar information T22 in storage device 32, and then generate avatar information T2 by adding avatar information T21 to avatar information T22 in storage device 32.

[0073] The registration unit 331 registers the display control information T31 in the storage device 32. The registration unit 331 generates the display control information T3 by adding the display control information T32 to the display control information T31 in the storage device 32. After registering the display control information T32 in the storage device 32, the registration unit 331 may generate the display control information T3 by adding the display control information T31 to the display control information T32 in the storage device 32.

[0074] The registration unit 331 registers the avatar-related information T41 in the storage device 32. The registration unit 331 generates the avatar-related information T4 by adding the avatar-related information T42 to the avatar-related information T41 in the storage device 32. The registration unit 331 may generate the avatar-related information T4 by adding the avatar-related information T41 to the avatar-related information T42 in the storage device 32 after registering the avatar-related information T42 in the storage device 32.

[0075] The acquisition unit 332 acquires avatar-related information T4 from the storage device 32. The avatar-related information T4 includes avatar position information indicating the position of avatar B1 in the virtual space and avatar position information indicating the position of avatar B2 in the virtual space. The avatar-related information T4, and more specifically, the avatar position information indicating the position of avatar B1 in the virtual space, is an example of situation information related to the situation of avatar B1 in the virtual space. The avatar-related information T4, and more specifically, the avatar position information indicating the position of avatar B2 in the virtual space, is an example of situation information related to the situation of avatar B2 in the virtual space.

[0076] The display control unit 333 controls the display of the avatar B1 on the display device 20 and the display of the avatar B2 on the display device 10.

[0077] The display control unit 333 causes the display device 20 to display the character B11a in FIG. 14 as the avatar B1, based on the fact that the avatar-related information T4 acquired by the acquisition unit 332 satisfies a first display condition. The character B11a is a real avatar of the user A1. The first display condition is, for example, a condition that the avatar B1 is located in a school in the virtual space. The first display condition is an example of a first condition related to the situation of the avatar in the virtual space.

[0078] The display control unit 333 causes the display device 20 to display, as the avatar B1, a character identified based on the relationship between the user A1 and the user A2, based on the fact that the avatar-related information T4 acquired by the acquisition unit 332 does not satisfy the first display condition but satisfies the second display condition. The second display condition is, for example, a condition that the avatar B1 is located in an area other than the school in the virtual space. The second display condition is an example of a second condition related to the situation of the avatar in the virtual space. The character identified based on the relationship between the user A1 and the user A2 is an example of a second character.

[0079] 14 as the second character, based on the fact that the relationship between user A1 and user A2 is an acquaintance relationship, in a situation where the avatar-related information T4 does not satisfy the first display condition but satisfies the second display condition. Character B11a is a real avatar of user A1.

[0080] When the avatar-related information T4 does not satisfy the first display condition but satisfies the second display condition, the display control unit 333 identifies the character B12a in Fig. 14 as the second character based on the fact that the relationship between user A1 and user A2 is not an acquaintance relationship. The character B12a is a non-real avatar of user A1.

[0081] The display control unit 333 causes the display device 10 to display the character B22a of FIG. 14 as the avatar B2, based on the fact that the avatar-related information T4 acquired by the acquisition unit 332 satisfies the third display condition. The character B22a is a non-real avatar of the user A2. The third display condition is, for example, a condition that the avatar B2 is located in a costume venue in the virtual space. The third display condition is another example of the first condition.

[0082] The display control unit 333 causes the display device 10 to display, as avatar B2, a character identified based on the relationship between user A1 and user A2, based on the fact that the avatar-related information T4 acquired by the acquisition unit 332 does not satisfy the third display condition but satisfies the fourth display condition. The fourth display condition is, for example, a condition that avatar B2 is located in an area other than the costume venue in the virtual space. The fourth display condition is another example of the second condition. The character identified based on the relationship between user A1 and user A2 is an example of the second character.

[0083] 14 as the second character, based on the fact that the relationship between user A1 and user A2 is an acquaintance relationship when avatar-related information T4 does not satisfy the third display condition but satisfies the fourth display condition. Character B21a is a real avatar of user A2.

[0084] 14 as the second character, based on the fact that the relationship between user A1 and user A2 is not an acquaintance relationship when avatar-related information T4 does not satisfy the third display condition but satisfies the fourth display condition. Character B22a is a non-real avatar of user A2.

[0085] A5: Explanation of operation The avatar management device 30 operates based on display control information T3 as shown in FIG. 15. For simplicity of explanation, it is assumed that the storage device 32 of the avatar management device 30 stores user information T1 of FIG. 13, avatar information T2 of FIG. 14, display control information T3 of FIG. 15, and avatar-related information T4 of FIG. 16. The user information T1 includes user information T11 of user A1 and user information T12 of user A2. The avatar information T2 includes avatar information T21 of user A1 and avatar information T22 of user A2. The display control information T3 includes display control information T31 of user A1 and display control information T32 of user A2. The avatar-related information T4 includes avatar-related information T41 of user A1 and avatar-related information T42 of user A2. The display control unit 333 has map information indicating a map of the virtual space. Assume that avatar B1 and avatar B2 are located in a virtual space.

[0086] The avatar management device 30 controls the display of the avatar B1 on the display device 20 based on the display control information T31 of the user A1.

[0087] FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating an example of the operation of the avatar management device 30 based on the display control information T31 of the user A1.

[0088] In step S101, the acquisition unit 332 reads the avatar-related information T4 from the storage device 32 to acquire the avatar-related information T4.

[0089] Next, in step S102, the display control unit 333 determines whether the avatar B1 is located in a school in the virtual space.

[0090] In step S102, the display control unit 333 first identifies avatar position information indicating the position of avatar B1 in the virtual space from the avatar-related information T4 acquired by the acquisition unit 332. The avatar position information indicating the position of avatar B1 in the virtual space is referred to as "first avatar position information." Next, the display control unit 333 uses map information to determine whether the position of avatar B1 indicated by the first avatar position information is included in the school area in the virtual space.

[0091] If the position of avatar B1 indicated by the first avatar position information is included in the area of ​​the school in the virtual space, the display control unit 333 determines that avatar B1 is located at the school in the virtual space. The fact that avatar B1 is located at the school in the virtual space means that avatar-related information T4 satisfies the first display condition.

[0092] If the position of avatar B1 indicated by the first avatar position information is not included in the area of ​​the school in the virtual space, the display control unit 333 determines that avatar B1 is not located at the school in the virtual space. Avatar B1 not being located at the school in the virtual space means that avatar-related information T4 does not satisfy the first display condition but satisfies the second display condition. Hereinafter, for simplicity of explanation, a situation in which avatar B1 is not located at the school in the virtual space is assumed to be a situation in which avatar B1 is located at a store in the virtual space. Note that a situation in which avatar B1 is not located at the school in the virtual space is not limited to a situation in which avatar B1 is located at a store in the virtual space, and may also be a situation in which avatar B1 is located at a plaza in the virtual space, for example.

[0093] If the display control unit 333 determines in step S102 that the avatar B1 is located in the school in the virtual space, then in step S103, the display device 20 displays the character B11a, which is the real avatar of the user A1.

[0094] In step S103 following step S102, the display control unit 333 first refers to the user information T11 of the user A1 to identify the character B11, which is the real avatar ID of the user A1. Next, the display control unit 333 refers to the avatar information T21 of the user A1 to identify the character B11a corresponding to the character B11 as the second character. Next, the display control unit 333 generates first image information showing the character B11a located at the school in the virtual space based on the map information and the character B11a. Next, the display control unit 333 transmits the first image information from the communication device 31 to the display device 20. Upon receiving the first image information, the display device 20 displays the character B11a located at the school in the virtual space on the display unit 21 based on the first image information, as shown in FIG. 1.

[0095] If the display control unit 333 determines in step S102 that the avatar B1 is not located in a school in the virtual space, it determines in step S104 whether the relationship between the user A1 and the user A2 is an acquaintance relationship.

[0096] In step S104, the display control unit 333 refers to the user information T11 of user A1 and determines whether the relationship between user A1 and user A2 is an acquaintance relationship. If user A2a corresponding to user A2 is listed in the acquaintances column of user information T11 of user A1, the display control unit 333 determines that the relationship between user A1 and user A2 is an acquaintance relationship. If user A2a corresponding to user A2 is not listed in the acquaintances column of user information T11 of user A1, the display control unit 333 determines that the relationship between user A1 and user A2 is not an acquaintance relationship.

[0097] If the display control unit 333 determines in step S104 that the relationship between the user A1 and the user A2 is an acquaintance relationship, then in step S103, the display device 20 displays a character B11a that is a real avatar of the user A1.

[0098] In step S103 following step S104, the display control unit 333 first refers to the user information T11 of the user A1 to identify the character B11, which is the real avatar ID of the user A1. Next, the display control unit 333 refers to the avatar information T21 of the user A1 to identify the character B11a corresponding to the character B11 as the second character. Next, the display control unit 333 generates second image information showing the character B11a located in the store in the virtual space based on the map information and the character B11a. Next, the display control unit 333 transmits the second image information from the communication device 31 to the display device 20. Upon receiving the second image information, the display device 20 displays the character B11a located in the store in the virtual space on the display unit 21 based on the second image information, as shown in FIG. 18.

[0099] If the display control unit 333 determines in step S104 that the relationship between the user A1 and the user A2 is not an acquaintance relationship, then in step S105, the display device 20 displays the character B12a, which is a non-real avatar of the user A1.

[0100] In step S105, the display control unit 333 first refers to the user information T11 of the user A1 to identify the character B12, which is the non-real avatar ID of the user A1. Next, the display control unit 333 refers to the avatar information T2 of the user A1 to identify the character B12a corresponding to the character B12 as the second character. Next, the display control unit 333 generates third image information showing the character B12a located in the store in the virtual space based on the map information and the character B12a. Next, the display control unit 333 transmits the third image information from the communication device 31 to the display device 20. Upon receiving the third image information, the display device 20 displays the character B12a located in the store in the virtual space on the display unit 21 based on the third image information, as shown in FIG. 19.

[0101] Furthermore, the avatar management device 30 controls the display of the avatar B2 on the display device 10 based on the display control information T32 of the user A2.

[0102] FIG. 20 is a diagram illustrating an example of the operation of the avatar management device 30 based on the display control information T32 of the user A2.

[0103] In step S201, the acquisition unit 332 reads the avatar-related information T4 from the storage device 32 to acquire the avatar-related information T4.

[0104] Next, in step S202, the display control unit 333 determines whether or not the avatar B2 is located in the costume hall in the virtual space.

[0105] In step S202, the display control unit 333 first identifies avatar position information indicating the position of avatar B2 in the virtual space from the avatar-related information T4 acquired by the acquisition unit 332. The avatar position information indicating the position of avatar B2 in the virtual space is referred to as "second avatar position information." Next, the display control unit 333 uses map information to determine whether the position of avatar B2 indicated by the second avatar position information is included in the area of ​​the costume venue in the virtual space.

[0106] If the position of avatar B2 indicated by the second avatar position information is included in the area of ​​the costume hall in the virtual space, the display control unit 333 determines that avatar B2 is located in the costume hall in the virtual space. The fact that avatar B2 is located in the costume hall in the virtual space means that avatar-related information T4 satisfies the third display condition.

[0107] If the position of avatar B2 indicated by the second avatar position information is not included in the area of ​​the costume venue in the virtual space, the display control unit 333 determines that avatar B2 is not located in the costume venue in the virtual space. Avatar B2 not being located in the costume venue in the virtual space means that avatar-related information T4 does not satisfy the third display condition but satisfies the fourth display condition. Hereinafter, for simplicity of explanation, a situation in which avatar B2 is not located in the costume venue in the virtual space is assumed to be a situation in which avatar B2 is located in a store in the virtual space. Note that a situation in which avatar B2 is not located in the costume venue in the virtual space is not limited to a situation in which avatar B2 is located in a store in the virtual space, and may also be a situation in which avatar B2 is located in a plaza in the virtual space, for example.

[0108] When the display control unit 333 determines in step S202 that the avatar B2 is located in the costume hall in the virtual space, the display control unit 333 causes the display device 10 to display a character B22a, which is a non-real avatar of the user A2, in step S203.

[0109] In step S203 following step S202, the display control unit 333 first refers to the user information T12 of user A2 to identify character B22, which is the non-real avatar ID of user A2. Next, the display control unit 333 refers to the avatar information T22 of user A2 to identify character B22a, which corresponds to character B22, as the second character. Next, the display control unit 333 generates fourth image information showing character B22a located in the costume hall in the virtual space, based on the map information and character B22a. Next, the display control unit 333 transmits the fourth image information from the communication device 31 to the display device 10. Upon receiving the fourth image information via the communication device 13, the operation control unit 152 of the display device 10 displays character B22a located in the costume hall in the virtual space on the display unit 11 based on the fourth image information.

[0110] If the display control unit 333 determines in step S202 that the avatar B2 is not located in the costume hall in the virtual space, it determines in step S204 whether the relationship between the user A2 and the user A1 is an acquaintance relationship.

[0111] In step S204, the display control unit 333 refers to the user information T12 of user A2 and determines whether the relationship between user A2 and user A1 is an acquaintance relationship. If user A1a corresponding to user A1 is listed in the acquaintances column of user information T12 of user A2, the display control unit 333 determines that the relationship between user A2 and user A1 is an acquaintance relationship. If user A1a corresponding to user A1 is not listed in the acquaintances column of user information T12 of user A2, the display control unit 333 determines that the relationship between user A2 and user A1 is not an acquaintance relationship.

[0112] If the display control unit 333 determines in step S204 that the relationship between the user A2 and the user A1 is an acquaintance relationship, then in step S205, the display device 10 displays a character B21a that is a real avatar of the user A2.

[0113] In step S205, the display control unit 333 first refers to the user information T12 of user A2 to identify character B21, which is the real avatar ID of user A2. Next, the display control unit 333 refers to avatar information T22 of user A2 to identify character B21a, which corresponds to character B21, as the second character. Next, the display control unit 333 generates fifth image information showing character B21a located in a store in the virtual space, based on the map information and character B21a. Next, the display control unit 333 transmits the fifth image information from the communication device 31 to the display device 10. Upon receiving the fifth image information via the communication device 13, the operation control unit 152 of the display device 10 displays character B21a located in the store in the virtual space on the display unit 11 based on the fifth image information, as shown in FIG. 21 .

[0114] If the display control unit 333 determines in step S204 that the relationship between the user A2 and the user A1 is not an acquaintance relationship, then in step S203, the display device 10 displays a character B22a that is a non-real avatar of the user A2.

[0115] In step S203 following step S204, the display control unit 333 first refers to the user information T12 of user A2 to identify character B22, which is the non-real avatar ID of user A2. Next, the display control unit 333 refers to the avatar information T22 of user A2 to identify character B22a, which corresponds to character B22, as the second character. Next, the display control unit 333 generates sixth image information indicating character B22a located in a store in the virtual space, based on the map information and character B22a. Next, the display control unit 333 transmits the sixth image information from the communication device 31 to the display device 10. Upon receiving the sixth image information via the communication device 13, the operation control unit 152 of the display device 10 displays character B22a located in the store in the virtual space on the display unit 11 based on the sixth image information, as shown in FIG. 22 .

[0116] A6: Summary of the first embodiment The acquisition unit 332 acquires avatar-related information T4. The display control unit 333 causes the display device 20 to display character B11a as avatar B1 based on the avatar-related information T4 satisfying a first display condition. The display control unit 333 causes the display device 20 to display a character (second character) specified based on the relationship between user A1 and user A2 as avatar B1 based on the avatar-related information T4 not satisfying the first display condition but satisfying a second display condition. This allows the system to meet the need to use a specific character (e.g., character B11a) as an avatar when a certain condition is satisfied, regardless of the relationship between users.

[0117] The display control unit 333 specifies character B11a as the second character based on the fact that user A1 and user A2 are in an acquaintance relationship when avatar-related information T4 does not satisfy the first display condition but satisfies the second display condition. The display control unit 333 specifies character B12a as the second character based on the fact that user A1 and user A2 are not in an acquaintance relationship when avatar-related information T4 does not satisfy the first display condition but satisfies the second display condition. Therefore, when avatar-related information T4 does not satisfy the first display condition but satisfies the second display condition, the avatar to be displayed can be changed depending on whether user A1 and user A2 are in an acquaintance relationship.

[0118] Character B11a is a real avatar, and character B12a is a non-real avatar. Therefore, in a situation where avatar-related information T4 does not satisfy the first display condition but satisfies the second display condition, a real avatar is displayed to users who are acquaintances, and a non-real avatar is displayed to users who are not acquaintances. Therefore, in a situation where avatar-related information T4 does not satisfy the first display condition but satisfies the second display condition, it is possible to protect real avatars that may correspond to personal information, compared to a configuration in which a real avatar is displayed to users who are not acquaintances.

[0119] The acquisition unit 332 acquires avatar-related information T4. The display control unit 333 causes the display device 10 to display character B22a as avatar B2 based on the avatar-related information T4 satisfying the third display condition. The display control unit 333 causes the display device 10 to display a character (second character) identified based on the relationship between user A2 and user A1 as avatar B2 based on the avatar-related information T4 not satisfying the third display condition but satisfying the fourth display condition. Therefore, when a certain condition is satisfied, it is possible to meet the need to use a specific character (e.g., character B22a) as an avatar regardless of the relationship between users.

[0120] The display control unit 333 specifies character B21a as the second character based on the fact that user A2 and user A1 are in an acquaintance relationship when avatar-related information T4 does not satisfy the third display condition but satisfies the fourth display condition. The display control unit 333 specifies character 212a as the second character based on the fact that user A2 and user A1 are not in an acquaintance relationship when avatar-related information T4 does not satisfy the third display condition but satisfies the fourth display condition. Therefore, when avatar-related information T4 does not satisfy the third display condition but satisfies the fourth display condition, the avatar to be displayed can be switched depending on whether user A2 and user A1 are in an acquaintance relationship.

[0121] Character B21a is a real avatar, and character B22a is a non-real avatar. Therefore, in a situation where avatar-related information T4 does not satisfy the third display condition but satisfies the fourth display condition, a real avatar is displayed to users who are acquaintances, and a non-real avatar is displayed to users who are not acquaintances. Therefore, in a situation where avatar-related information T4 does not satisfy the third display condition but satisfies the fourth display condition, it is possible to protect real avatars that may correspond to personal information, compared to a configuration in which a real avatar is displayed to users who are not acquaintances.

[0122] B: Modified example The following are variations of the above-described embodiment. Two or more variations arbitrarily selected from the following variations may be combined as appropriate within the scope of not contradicting each other.

[0123] B1: First modified example In the first embodiment, the display control unit 333 can cause the display device 20 to change from displaying character B11a to displaying character B12a by repeatedly performing the operation of Figure 17 in a situation where the position of avatar B1 changes.

[0124] For example, when the avatar B1 leaves the school in the virtual space, the display control unit 333 causes the display device of a user who is not an acquaintance of the user A1 to change the display from the character B11a to the character B12a.

[0125] The change from displaying character B11a to displaying character B12a may be a change in which the display of character B11a is changed to displaying the first transition character, and then the display of the first transition character is changed to displaying character B12a.

[0126] The first transition character is an example of a fourth character. The first transition character is a character different from both character B11a and character B12a. The first transition character is, for example, a cloud-shaped character. The first transition character is not limited to a cloud-shaped character and may be, for example, a transparent character.

[0127] Changing the display of character B11a to the display of the first transition character may, for example, directly change the display of character B11a to the display of the first transition character. Changing the display of character B11a to the display of the first transition character may include displaying at least one first intermediate character between the display of character B11a and the display of the first transition character.

[0128] The at least one first intermediate character is a character different from both the character B11a and the first transition character. The at least one first intermediate character is, for example, a character obtained by making the character B11a semi-transparent. The at least one first intermediate character is not limited to a character obtained by making the character B11a semi-transparent, but may be, for example, a character obtained by changing the entire color of the character B11a to black or blue.

[0129] Changing the display of the first transition character to a display of character B12a may, for example, directly change the display of the first transition character to a display of character B12a. Changing the display of the first transition character to a display of character B12a may also include displaying at least one second intermediate character between the display of the first transition character and the display of character B12a.

[0130] The at least one second intermediate character is a character different from both the first transition character and the character B12a. The at least one second intermediate character is, for example, a character obtained by making the character B12a semi-transparent. The at least one second intermediate character is not limited to a character obtained by making the character B12a semi-transparent, but may be, for example, a character obtained by changing the entire character B12a to black or green.

[0131] According to the first modification, compared to a configuration in which the display of character B11a is directly changed to the display of character B12a, it is possible to reduce the possibility that the relationship between character B11a and character B12a will be known to users who are not acquaintances of user A1. Furthermore, when at least one first intermediate character is used, it is possible to reduce the possibility that the relationship between character B11a and character B12a will be known to users who are not acquaintances of user A1, compared to a configuration in which at least one first intermediate character is not used. Furthermore, when at least one second intermediate character is used, it is possible to reduce the possibility that the relationship between character B11a and character B12a will be known to users who are not acquaintances of user A1, compared to a configuration in which at least one second intermediate character is not used.

[0132] B2: Second variant In the first embodiment and the first variant, the display control unit 333 can cause the display device 10 to change from displaying character B22a to displaying character B21a by repeatedly performing the operation of Figure 20 in a situation where the position of avatar B2 changes.

[0133] For example, when avatar B2 leaves the costume hall in the virtual space, display control unit 333 causes the display device of a user who is an acquaintance of user A2 to change from displaying character B22a to displaying character B12a.

[0134] The change from displaying character B22a to displaying character B21a may be a change in which the display of character B11a is changed to displaying the second transition character, and then the display of the second transition character is changed to displaying character B21a.

[0135] The second transition character is another example of the fourth character. The second transition character is a character different from both character B22a and character B21a. The second transition character is, for example, a cloud-shaped character. The second transition character is not limited to a cloud-shaped character and may be, for example, a transparent character. The second transition character may be the same character as the first transition character, or may be a character different from the first transition character. When the second transition character is the same character as the first transition character, the number of avatars managed by avatar management device 30 can be reduced compared to a configuration in which the second transition character is a character different from the first transition character. This can prevent an increase in the load on avatar management device 30. When the second transition character is a character different from the first transition character, a more diverse range of characters can be displayed compared to a configuration in which the second transition character is the same character as the first transition character. This provides the user with the fun of a variety of characters.

[0136] Changing the display of character B22a to the display of the second transition character may, for example, directly change the display of character B22a to the display of the second transition character. Changing the display of character B22a to the display of the second transition character may also include displaying at least one third intermediate character between the display of character B22a and the display of the second transition character.

[0137] The at least one third intermediate character is a character different from both the character B22a and the second transition character. The at least one third intermediate character is, for example, a character obtained by making the character B22a semi-transparent. The at least one third intermediate character is not limited to a character obtained by making the character B22a semi-transparent, but may be, for example, a character obtained by changing the entire character B22a to black or red.

[0138] Changing the display of the second transition character to a display of character B21a may, for example, directly change the display of the second transition character to a display of character B21a. Changing the display of the second transition character to a display of character B21a may also include displaying at least one fourth intermediate character between the display of the second transition character and the display of character B21a.

[0139] The at least one fourth intermediate character is a character different from both the second transition character and the character B21a. The at least one fourth intermediate character is, for example, a character obtained by making the character B21a semi-transparent. The at least one fourth intermediate character is not limited to a character obtained by making the character B21a semi-transparent, but may be, for example, a character obtained by changing the entire character B21a to black or green.

[0140] According to the second modification, compared to a configuration in which the display of character B22a is directly changed to the display of character B21a, it is possible to reduce the likelihood that the relationship between character B22a and character B21a will be known to users who are acquaintances of user A1. Furthermore, when at least one third intermediate character is used, it is possible to reduce the likelihood that the relationship between character B22a and character B21a will be known to users who are acquaintances of user A1, compared to a configuration in which at least one third intermediate character is not used. Furthermore, when at least one fourth intermediate character is used, it is possible to reduce the likelihood that the relationship between character B22a and character B21a will be known to users who are acquaintances of user A1, compared to a configuration in which at least one fourth intermediate character is not used.

[0141] B3: Third variant In the first embodiment and the first to second variants, the display control unit 333 causes the display device 20 to change from displaying character B12a to displaying character B11a by repeatedly performing the operation of Figure 17 in a situation where the position of avatar B1 changes.

[0142] For example, when the avatar B1 enters a school area in the virtual space, the display control unit 333 causes the display device of a user who is not an acquaintance of the user A1 to change the display from the character B12a to the character B11a.

[0143] The change from displaying character B12a to displaying character B11a may be a change in which the display of character B12a is changed to displaying the third transition character, and then the display of the third transition character is changed to displaying character B11a.

[0144] The third transition character is an example of a fifth character. The third transition character is a character different from both character B11a and character B12a. The third transition character is, for example, a cloud-shaped character. The third transition character is not limited to a cloud-shaped character and may be, for example, a transparent character. The third transition character may be different from both the first transition character and the second transition character, or may be the same character as at least one of the first transition character and the second transition character. At least one of the first transition character and the second transition character means, for example, the "first transition character," the "second transition character," or the "first transition character and the second transition character."

[0145] Changing the display of character B12a to the display of the third transition character may, for example, directly change the display of character B12a to the display of the third transition character. Changing the display of character B12a to the display of the third transition character may also include displaying at least one fifth intermediate character between the display of character B12a and the display of the third transition character.

[0146] The at least one fifth intermediate character is a character different from both the character B12a and the third transition character. The at least one fifth intermediate character is, for example, a character obtained by making the character B12a semi-transparent. The at least one fifth intermediate character is not limited to a character obtained by making the character B12a semi-transparent, but may be, for example, a character obtained by changing the entire character B12a to black or blue.

[0147] Changing the display of the third transition character to the display of character B11a directly changes the display of the third transition character to the display of character B11a. Changing the display of the third transition character to the display of character B11a may include displaying at least one sixth intermediate character between the display of the third transition character and the display of character B11a.

[0148] The at least one sixth intermediate character is a character different from both the third transition character and the character B11a. The at least one sixth intermediate character is, for example, a character obtained by making the character B11a semi-transparent. The at least one sixth intermediate character is not limited to a character obtained by making the character B11a semi-transparent, but may be, for example, a character obtained by changing the entire character B11a to black or green.

[0149] According to the third modification, compared to a configuration in which the display of character B12a is directly changed to that of character B11a, the possibility that the relationship between character B11a and character B12a will be known to users who are not acquaintances of user A1 can be reduced. Furthermore, when at least one fifth intermediate character is used, compared to a configuration in which at least one fifth intermediate character is not used, the possibility that the relationship between character B11a and character B12a will be known to users who are not acquaintances of user A1 can be reduced. Furthermore, when at least one sixth intermediate character is used, compared to a configuration in which at least one sixth intermediate character is not used, the possibility that the relationship between character B11a and character B12a will be known to users who are not acquaintances of user A1 can be reduced.

[0150] B4: Fourth variant In the first embodiment and the first to third variants, the display control unit 333 causes the display device 10 to change from displaying character B21a to displaying character B22a by repeatedly performing the operation of Figure 20 in a situation where the position of avatar B2 changes.

[0151] For example, when avatar B2 enters a costume venue in the virtual space, display control unit 333 causes the display device of a user who is an acquaintance of user A2 to change from displaying character B21a to displaying character B22a.

[0152] The change from displaying character B21a to displaying character B22a may be a change in which the display of character B21a is changed to displaying the fourth transition character, and then the display of the fourth transition character is changed to displaying character B22a.

[0153] The fourth transition character is another example of the fifth character. The fourth transition character is a character different from both character B21a and character B22a. The fourth transition character is, for example, a cloud-shaped character. The fourth transition character is not limited to a cloud-shaped character and may be, for example, a transparent character. The fourth transition character may be a character different from any of the first transition character, the second transition character, and the third transition character, or may be the same character as at least one of the first transition character, the second transition character, and the third transition character. At least one of the first transition character, the second transition character, and the third transition character means, for example, "the first transition character," "the second transition character," "the third transition character," "the first transition character and the second transition character," "the first transition character and the third transition character," "the second transition character and the third transition character," or "the first transition character, the second transition character, and the third transition character."

[0154] Changing the display of character B21a to the display of the fourth transition character may, for example, directly change the display of character B21a to the display of the fourth transition character. Changing the display of character B21a to the display of the fourth transition character may also include displaying at least one seventh intermediate character between the display of character B21a and the display of the fourth transition character.

[0155] The at least one seventh intermediate character is a character different from both the character B21a and the fourth transition character. The at least one seventh intermediate character is, for example, a character obtained by making the character B21a semi-transparent. The at least one seventh intermediate character is not limited to a character obtained by making the character B21a semi-transparent, but may be, for example, a character obtained by changing the entire character B21a to black or blue.

[0156] Changing the display of the fourth transition character to the display of character B22a may, for example, directly change the display of the fourth transition character to the display of character B22a. Changing the display of the fourth transition character to the display of character B22a may include displaying at least one eighth intermediate character between the display of the fourth transition character and the display of character B22a.

[0157] The at least one eighth intermediate character is a character different from both the fourth transition character and the character B22a. The at least one eighth intermediate character is, for example, a character obtained by making the character B22a semi-transparent. The at least one eighth intermediate character is not limited to a character obtained by making the character B22a semi-transparent, but may be, for example, a character obtained by changing the entire character B22a to black or green.

[0158] According to the fourth modification example, compared to a configuration in which the display of character B21a is directly changed to the display of character B22a, it is possible to reduce the likelihood that the relationship between character B21a and character B22a will be known to users who are acquaintances of user A1. Furthermore, when at least one seventh intermediate character is used, it is possible to reduce the likelihood that the relationship between character B21a and character B22a will be known to users who are acquaintances of user A1, compared to a configuration in which at least one seventh intermediate character is not used. Furthermore, when at least one eighth intermediate character is used, it is possible to reduce the likelihood that the relationship between character B21a and character B22a will be known to users who are acquaintances of user A1, compared to a configuration in which at least one eighth intermediate character is not used.

[0159] B5: Fifth variant In the first embodiment and the first to fourth modifications, the first condition may be a condition that the time in the virtual space is included in a first time period, and the second condition may be a condition that the time in the virtual space is included in a second time period.

[0160] The fifth modified example is applicable, for example, to a situation where a store in a virtual space is rented out for school classes from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM in the virtual space. In this case, the time period from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM is an example of a first time period, and any time period other than 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM is an example of a second time period.

[0161] In the fifth modified example, the registration unit 331 generates time information indicating the time in the virtual space where the avatar B1 is located. The time information is another example of situation information. The acquisition unit 332 acquires the time information from the registration unit 331.

[0162] If the time indicated by the time information acquired by the acquisition unit 332 is included in the first time slot, the display control unit 333 causes the display device 20 to display the character B11a as the avatar B1.

[0163] If the time indicated by the time information is not included in the first time slot and the relationship between user A1 and user A2 is an acquaintance relationship, the display control unit 333 specifies character B11a as the second character. Then, the display control unit 333 causes the display device 20 to display character B11a as avatar B1.

[0164] If the time indicated by the time information is not included in the first time slot and the relationship between user A1 and user A2 is not an acquaintance relationship, the display control unit 333 specifies character B12a as the second character. Then, the display control unit 333 causes the display device 20 to display character B12a as avatar B1.

[0165] According to the fifth modified example, when the first condition regarding the time period is satisfied, it is possible to meet the needs of users who want to use a specific character as an avatar regardless of the relationship between the users.

[0166] B6: 6th variant In the first embodiment and the first to fifth variants, the first condition may be a condition that the weather conditions in the virtual space are a first weather, and the second condition may be a condition that the weather conditions in the virtual space are a second weather.

[0167] The sixth modification is applied, for example, to a situation where the weather in the virtual space is sunny and a plaza in the virtual space is rented out for a school class. In this case, the sunny weather in the virtual space is an example of the first weather, and the weather condition in the virtual space other than sunny is an example of the second weather.

[0168] In the sixth modification, the registration unit 331 generates weather information indicating the weather conditions in the virtual space where the avatar B1 is located. The weather information is another example of situation information. The acquisition unit 332 acquires the weather information from the registration unit 331.

[0169] If the weather information acquired by the acquisition unit 332 indicates fine weather, the display control unit 333 causes the display device 20 to display the character B11a as the avatar B1.

[0170] When the weather information does not indicate sunny weather and the relationship between user A1 and user A2 is an acquaintance relationship, the display control unit 333 specifies the character B11a as the second character. Then, the display control unit 333 causes the display device 20 to display the character B11a as the avatar B1.

[0171] If the weather information does not indicate sunny weather and the relationship between user A1 and user A2 is not an acquaintance relationship, the display control unit 333 specifies the character B12a as the second character. Then, the display control unit 333 causes the display device 20 to display the character B12a as the avatar B1.

[0172] According to the sixth modified example, when the first condition regarding weather is satisfied, it is possible to meet the needs of users who want to use a specific character as an avatar regardless of the relationship between the users.

[0173] B7: 7th variant In the first embodiment and the first to sixth modifications, a character representing the user's name may be used instead of a real avatar.

[0174] The relationship between user A1 and user A2 may be determined not only by whether they are acquaintances, but also by whether they are blood relatives.

[0175] The first display condition may be that avatar B1 is located in a school in the virtual space and that avatar B1 is within the field of view of avatar B2, which is set based on the position of avatar B2.

[0176] The second display condition may be that avatar B1 is located in an area other than the school in the virtual space and that avatar B1 is within the field of view of avatar B2.

[0177] The third display condition may be that avatar B2 is located in a costume venue in the virtual space and is within the field of view of avatar B1. The field of view of avatar B1 is set based on the position of avatar B1.

[0178] The fourth display condition may be that avatar B2 is located in an area other than the costume venue in the virtual space and that avatar B2 is within the field of view of avatar B1.

[0179] The display device 10 may have a camera. The camera, for example, captures an image of the real world that unfolds in front of the user A1. The display device 10 may display the image of the real world captured by the camera on the display unit 11. The camera may capture an image of the left eye A1L or the right eye A1R of the user A1. In this case, the operation control unit 152 of the display device 10 may identify the direction of the line of sight of the user A1 based on the image capture result of the camera. The display device 10 may display the direction of the line of sight of the user A1 on the display unit 11.

[0180] C:Other (1) Each function illustrated in Figure 6 or Figure 12 is realized by any combination of hardware and software. There are no particular limitations on how each function is realized. Each function may be realized using a single device that is physically or logically coupled, or may be realized using a device that is configured by connecting two or more physically or logically separated devices directly or indirectly (for example, using wires, wirelessly, etc.). Each function may be realized by combining software with the single device or multiple devices.

[0181] (2) In this specification, the term "apparatus" may be replaced with other terms such as circuit, device, or unit.

[0182] (3) In each of the first embodiment and the first to seventh modifications, storage device 14 and storage device 32 may be configured by at least one of an optical disk such as a CD-ROM (Compact Disc ROM), a hard disk drive, a flexible disk, a magneto-optical disk (e.g., a compact disk, a digital versatile disk, a Blu-ray (registered trademark) disk), a smart card, a flash memory (e.g., a card, a stick, a key drive), a floppy (registered trademark) disk, a magnetic strip, etc. Also, the program may be transmitted from a network via a telecommunications line.

[0183] (4) Each of the first embodiment and the first to seventh modifications is based on LTE (Long Term Evolution), LTE-A (Long Term Evolution-Advanced), SUPER 3G, IMT-Advanced, 4G (4th generation mobile communication system), 5G (5th generation mobile communication system), 6th generation mobile communication system (6G), xth generation mobile communication system (xG) (x is, for example, an integer or a decimal point), FRA (Future Radio Access), NR (new Radio), New radio access (NX), Future generation radio access (FX), W-CDMA (registered trademark), GSM (registered trademark), CDMA2000, UMB (Ultra Mobile Broadband), IEEE 802.11 (Wi-Fi (registered trademark)), IEEE 802.16 (WiMAX (registered trademark)), IEEE The present invention may be applied to at least one of systems using 802.20, UWB (Ultra-Wideband), Bluetooth (registered trademark), or other appropriate systems, and next-generation systems that are extended, modified, created, or defined based on these systems. The present invention may also be applied to a combination of multiple systems (e.g., a combination of at least one of LTE and LTE-A with 5G).

[0184] (5) The order of the exemplary processing procedures, sequences, or flowcharts shown in the first embodiment and the first to seventh modifications may be changed as long as there is no contradiction. For example, the methods described herein present various step elements in an exemplary order and are not limited to the particular order presented.

[0185] (6) In each of the first embodiment and the first to seventh modifications, input and output information, etc. may be stored in a specific location (for example, a memory) or may be managed using a management table. Input and output information, etc. may be overwritten, updated, or added. Output information, etc. may be deleted. Input information, etc. may be transmitted to another device.

[0186] (7) In each of the first embodiment and the first to seventh variants, the judgment may be based on a value represented by one bit (0 or 1), a Boolean value (true or false), or a comparison of numerical values ​​(e.g., a comparison with a predetermined value).

[0187] (8) The programs exemplified in the first embodiment and each of the first to seventh modifications should be broadly construed to mean instructions, instruction sets, code, code segments, program code, subprograms, software modules, applications, software applications, software packages, routines, subroutines, objects, executable files, execution threads, procedures, or functions, regardless of whether they are called software, firmware, middleware, microcode, hardware description languages, or by other names. Furthermore, software, instructions, or the like may be transmitted and received via a transmission medium. For example, if software is transmitted from a website, server, or other remote source using at least one of wired technology (such as coaxial cable, optical fiber cable, twisted pair, and digital subscriber line (DSL)) and wireless technology (such as infrared and microwave), at least one of these wired and wireless technologies is included within the definition of a transmission medium.

[0188] (9) The information and the like described in each of the first embodiment and the first to seventh modifications may be represented using any of a variety of different technologies. For example, data, information, and the like that may be referred to throughout the above description may be represented by voltage, current, electromagnetic waves, magnetic fields, magnetic particles, optical fields, photons, or any combination thereof. Note that terms described in this specification and terms necessary for understanding this specification may be replaced with terms having the same or similar meanings.

[0189] (10) In each of the first embodiment and the first to seventh modifications, the terms "system" and "network" are used interchangeably.

[0190] (11) In each of the first embodiment and the first to seventh modifications, at least one of the display devices 10 and 20 may be a mobile station. A mobile station may also be referred to by those skilled in the art as a subscriber station, mobile unit, subscriber unit, wireless unit, remote unit, mobile device, wireless device, wireless communication device, remote device, mobile subscriber station, access terminal, mobile terminal, wireless terminal, remote terminal, handset, user agent, mobile client, client, or some other appropriate term.

[0191] (12) A mobile station may be referred to as a transmitting device, a receiving device, a communication device, or the like. A mobile station may be a device mounted on a mobile object, or the mobile object itself. A mobile object refers to an object that can move. A mobile object can move at any speed. A mobile object can be stopped. Examples of mobile objects include, but are not limited to, vehicles, transport vehicles, automobiles, motorcycles, bicycles, connected cars, excavators, bulldozers, wheel loaders, dump trucks, forklifts, trains, buses, handcars, rickshaws, ships and other watercraft, airplanes, rockets, satellites, drones (registered trademark), multicopters, quadcopters, balloons, and objects mounted thereon. A mobile object may also be a mobile object that moves autonomously based on an operation command. A mobile object may be a vehicle (e.g., a car, an airplane, etc.), an unmanned mobile object (e.g., a drone, an autonomous vehicle, etc.), or a robot (manned or unmanned). A mobile station also includes devices that do not necessarily move during communication operations. For example, the mobile station may be an IoT (Internet of Things) device such as a sensor.

[0192] (13) In each of the first embodiment and the first to seventh modifications, the term "determining" may encompass a wide variety of actions. "Determining" may include, for example, judging, calculating, computing, processing, deriving, investigating, looking up, searching, inquiring (e.g., searching in a table, database, or other data structure), ascertaining, and regarding that as a "determination." Furthermore, "determining" may include regarding receiving (e.g., receiving information), transmitting (e.g., sending information), input, output, and accessing (e.g., accessing data in memory) as a "judgment" or "decision." Furthermore, "decision" can include the act of considering something to be "decided" such as resolving, selecting, choosing, establishing, or comparing. In other words, "decision" can include the act of considering something to be "decided" to be an action. "Decision" can also be interpreted as "assuming," "expecting," or "considering," among others.

[0193] (14) In each of the first embodiment and the first to seventh modifications, the term "connected," or any variation thereof, refers to any direct or indirect connection or coupling between two or more elements, and may include the presence of one or more intermediate elements between two elements that are "connected" or "coupled" to each other. The coupling or connection between elements may be physical, logical, or a combination thereof. For example, "connected" may be read as "access." As used in this disclosure, two elements may be considered to be "connected" or "coupled" to each other using at least one of one or more electric wires, cables, and printed electrical connections, as well as electromagnetic energy having wavelengths in the radio frequency range, microwave range, and optical (both visible and invisible) range, as some non-limiting and non-exhaustive examples.

[0194] (15) In each of the first embodiment and the first to seventh modifications, the phrase "based on" does not mean "based only on," unless otherwise specified. In other words, the phrase "based on" means both "based only on" and "based at least on."

[0195] (16) As used herein, any reference to elements using designations such as "first" and "second" does not generally limit the quantity or order of those elements. These designations may be used herein as a convenient method of distinguishing between two or more elements. Thus, a reference to a first and a second element does not imply that only two elements may be employed or that the first element must precede the second element in some way.

[0196] (17) When the words "include," "including," and variations thereof are used in the first embodiment and the first to seventh modifications in this specification or claims, these words are intended to be inclusive, similar to the word "comprising." Furthermore, the word "or" used in this specification or claims is not intended to be an exclusive logical OR.

[0197] (18) Throughout this application, where articles are added by translation, such as a, an, and the in English, the disclosure may include the plural form of the noun following these articles.

[0198] (19) It is clear to those skilled in the art that the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described in this specification. The present invention can be implemented in modified and altered forms without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention as defined by the claims. Therefore, the description in this specification is intended as an illustrative explanation and does not have any limiting meaning on the present invention. Furthermore, multiple aspects selected from the aspects exemplified in this specification may be combined.

[0199] D: Aspects understood from the above-mentioned embodiments or modifications The following aspects can be understood from at least one of the above-described embodiments or modifications.

[0200] D1: First mode An information processing device according to a first aspect includes an acquisition unit and a display control unit. The acquisition unit acquires situation information relating to a situation in a virtual space of an avatar corresponding to a first user. The display control unit causes a display device used by a second user to display a first character as the avatar when the situation information satisfies a first condition related to the situation, and causes the display device to display a second character identified based on a relationship between the first user and the second user as the avatar when the situation information does not satisfy the first condition but satisfies a second condition related to the situation.

[0201] According to this embodiment, when certain conditions are met, it is possible to meet the needs of users who want to use a specific character as an avatar regardless of the relationship between the users.

[0202] D2: Second mode In an example of the first aspect (second aspect), the display control unit identifies the first character as the second character based on the fact that the relationship between the first user and the second user is an acquaintance relationship, and identifies a third character different from the first character as the second character based on the fact that the relationship between the first user and the second user is not an acquaintance relationship. According to this aspect, in a situation where the situation information does not satisfy the first condition but satisfies the second condition, it is possible to alternate between the first character and the third character depending on whether the relationship between the first user and the second user is an acquaintance relationship.

[0203] D3: Third mode In an example of the second aspect (third aspect), the degree of match between the appearance of the first character and the first user is higher than the degree of match between the appearance of the third character and the first user. According to this aspect, in a situation where the situation information does not satisfy the first condition but satisfies the second condition, the first character that makes it easy to recognize the first user can be shown to users who are acquaintances, and the third character that makes it difficult to recognize the first user can be shown to users who are not acquaintances.

[0204] D4: Fourth mode In an example of the first aspect (fourth aspect), the display control unit identifies a third character different from the first character as the second character based on the fact that the relationship between the first user and the second user is an acquaintance relationship, and identifies the first character as the second character based on the fact that the relationship between the first user and the second user is not an acquaintance relationship. According to this aspect, in a situation where the situation information does not satisfy the first condition but satisfies the second condition, it is possible to alternate between the first character and the third character depending on whether the relationship between the first user and the second user is an acquaintance relationship.

[0205] D5: Fifth mode In an example of the fourth aspect (fifth aspect), the degree of match between the appearance of the third character and the first user is higher than the degree of match between the appearance of the first character and the first user. According to this aspect, in a situation where the situation information does not satisfy the first condition but satisfies the second condition, a third character that makes it easy to recognize the first user can be shown to users who are acquaintances, and a first character that makes it difficult to recognize the first user can be shown to users who are not acquaintances.

[0206] D6: Sixth mode In any example (sixth aspect) of the second to fifth aspects, the display control unit causes the display device to change from displaying the first character to displaying the third character, and the change from displaying the first character to displaying the third character includes changing from displaying the first character to displaying a fourth character and changing from displaying the fourth character to displaying the third character. According to this aspect, compared to a configuration in which the change from displaying the first character to displaying the third character is directly made, it is possible to reduce the possibility that a user who is not an acquaintance of the first user will know about the relationship between the first character and the third character.

[0207] D7: Seventh mode In one example (seventh aspect) of the second to sixth aspects, the display control unit causes the display device to change from displaying the third character to displaying the first character, and the change from displaying the third character to displaying the first character includes changing from displaying the third character to displaying a fifth character, and changing from displaying the fifth character to displaying the first character. According to this aspect, compared to a configuration in which the change is made directly from displaying the third character to displaying the first character, it is possible to reduce the possibility that a user who is not an acquaintance of the first user will learn of the relationship between the first character and the third character.

[0208] D8: Eighth mode In any one of the first to seventh aspects (eighth aspect), the first condition is that the avatar is located in a first area of ​​the virtual space, and the second condition is that the avatar is located in a second area of ​​the virtual space. According to this aspect, when the first condition regarding location is satisfied, it is possible to meet the need to use a specific character as an avatar regardless of the relationship between users.

[0209] D9: 9th mode In any one of the first to seventh aspects (ninth aspect), the first condition is that the time in the virtual space is included in a first time zone, and the second condition is that the time in the virtual space is included in a second time zone. According to this aspect, when the first time-related condition is satisfied, it is possible to meet the need to use a specific character as an avatar regardless of the relationship between users.

[0210] D10: 10th mode In any one of the first to seventh aspects (tenth aspect), the first condition is that the weather conditions in the virtual space are a first weather, and the second condition is that the weather conditions in the virtual space are a second weather. According to this aspect, when the first weather-related condition is satisfied, it is possible to meet the needs of users who want to use a specific character as an avatar regardless of the relationship between users. [Explanation of symbols]

[0211] 1...display control system, 10...display device, 11...display unit, 11L...display unit for left eye, 11R...display unit for right eye, 12...connection unit, 13...communication device, 14...storage device, 15...processing device, 16...bus, 20...display device, 21...display unit, 30...avatar management device, 31...communication device, 32...storage device, 33...processing device, 34...bus, 96...controller, 96a...operation unit, 151...position identification unit, 152...operation control unit, 331...registration unit, 332...acquisition unit, 333...display control unit.

Claims

1. an acquisition unit that acquires situation information regarding a situation in a virtual space of an avatar corresponding to a first user; a display control unit that, when the situation information satisfies a first condition related to the situation, causes a display device used by a second user to display a first character as the avatar, and, when the situation information does not satisfy the first condition but satisfies a second condition related to the situation, causes the display device to display a second character specified based on a relationship between the first user and the second user as the avatar; An information processing device comprising:

2. The display control unit Identifying the first character as the second character based on the fact that the relationship between the first user and the second user is an acquaintance relationship; specifying a third character different from the first character as the second character based on the fact that the relationship between the first user and the second user is not an acquaintance relationship; The information processing device according to claim 1 .

3. a degree of matching between the appearance of the first character and the appearance of the first user is higher than a degree of matching between the appearance of the third character and the appearance of the first user; The information processing device according to claim 2 .

4. The display control unit Identifying a third character different from the first character as the second character based on the fact that the relationship between the first user and the second user is an acquaintance relationship; Identifying the first character as the second character based on the fact that the relationship between the first user and the second user is not an acquaintance relationship; The information processing device according to claim 1 .

5. a degree of matching between the appearance of the third character and the appearance of the first user is higher than a degree of matching between the appearance of the first character and the appearance of the first user; The information processing device according to claim 4 .

6. The display control unit causing the display device to change from displaying the first character to displaying the third character; The change from the display of the first character to the display of the third character is a change from displaying the first character to displaying a fourth character, and a change from displaying the fourth character to displaying the third character, The information processing device according to claim 2 .

7. The display control unit causing the display device to change from displaying the third character to displaying the first character; The change from displaying the third character to displaying the first character is a change from displaying the third character to displaying a fifth character, and a change from displaying the fifth character to displaying the first character, The information processing device according to claim 2 .

8. the first condition is that the avatar is located in a first area of ​​the virtual space; the second condition is that the avatar is located in a second area of ​​the virtual space; The information processing device according to claim 1 .

9. the first condition is a condition that the time in the virtual space is included in a first time zone, The second condition is a condition that the time in the virtual space is included in a second time zone. The information processing device according to claim 1 .

10. the first condition is a condition that the weather state of the virtual space is a first weather, the second condition is a condition that the weather state of the virtual space is a second weather; The information processing device according to claim 1 .

Images