Information generation program, information generation device, information processing system, and information generation method

Abstract

To provide ball game information for allowing spectators to easily identify specific events which have greatly impacted a game.SOLUTION: An information generation device 1 generates ball game information which can acquire predominance of winning or losing by fighting for a position. The information generation device 1 acquires play information including a start position in a specific direction of a ballpark in a first play. Then, the information generation device 1 generates, as ball game information of the first play, ball game information graphic based on a start position at a start position adjacent to a first direction of ball game information of a second play performed just before the first play and located in a second direction.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an information generation program and the like. [Background technology]

[0002] In ball games, in order to improve spectator satisfaction, high-quality information about the game is disclosed to spectators. Main information includes the score, remaining time, elapsed time, and the performance of ball players. By providing detailed information about the game to spectators via mobile information terminals at the ball game stadium, an information providing device can further improve spectator satisfaction.

[0003] For example, a technique has been disclosed in which, when a video distribution server distributes information about a soccer match to a mobile terminal, the ball possession rates of both teams for each time period are displayed in a graph, and event information such as shooting scenes is also displayed on the graph (see, for example, Patent Document 1). With this technique, the video distribution server can also display display screen information that shows the ball position and the ball possession team in a time series in a line graph during the soccer match.

[0004] Also, a technology has been disclosed for displaying display screen information in a soccer match that shows the ball position and the team in possession of the ball in a time series line graph based on ball position information and ball possession information (see, for example, Patent Document 2). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2003-250141 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2003-309842 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] However, when displaying information about a ball game in which the clock stops in response to an event (play), such as American football, conventional technology has a problem in that it is difficult for spectators to identify a specific event that had a major impact on the game. In other words, there is a need for disclosure of ball game information that allows spectators to easily identify a specific event that had a major impact on the game.

[0007] The above problem is not limited to American football, but also occurs in other ball games such as rugby in which the clock stops depending on the event.

[0008] One aspect is to provide ball game information that makes it easy for spectators to identify specific events that had a significant impact on the game. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] In one aspect, the information generation program is an information generation program that generates information about a ball game in which an advantage in winning or losing can be gained by competing for territory, and causes a computer to execute a process of acquiring play information including the starting position of the ball in a specific direction on the ball field in a first play, and generating a ball game information graphic as the ball game information for the first play that is close in a first direction to a ball game information graphic including the starting position in a second play that was played immediately before the first play and includes the starting position in the first play in a second direction. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] According to one embodiment, ball game information can be provided that allows spectators to easily identify specific events that had a significant impact on the game. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a functional block diagram illustrating a configuration of a system including an information generating device according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a play information table according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of a method for drawing ball game information graphics according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of ball game image information according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of a flowchart of the information generation process according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of a method for drawing ball game information graphics according to the second embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of a play information table according to the second embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of ball game image information according to the second embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of a method for drawing ball game information graphics according to the third embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a play information table according to the third embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of ball game image information according to the third embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating an example of a method for drawing ball game information graphics according to the fourth embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of a computer that executes an information generating program. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0012] Hereinafter, embodiments of the information generating program, information generating device, information processing system, and information generating method disclosed in the present application will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments. [Example]

[0013] [Configuration of a system including an information generating device] 1 is a functional block diagram showing the configuration of a system including an information generating device according to a first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, a system 9 includes an information generating device 1, a service providing device 3, and a mobile information terminal 5. Although the mobile information terminal 5 shown in FIG. 1 is a single terminal, the present invention is not limited to this and may include a plurality of terminals. In other words, the mobile information terminal 5 may be any terminal that can receive a service provided by the service providing device 3.

[0014] The information generating device 1 and the mobile information terminal 5 are connected via a network 7. The network 7 is, for example, a wide area network (WAN) such as the Internet using the HTTPS (Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure) protocol, but is not limited to this and may be another communication network such as a carrier network. The network 7 may also include short-range wireless communication. Examples of short-range wireless communication include Bluetooth (registered trademark) and WiFi (Wireless Fidelity) (registered trademark).

[0015] The information generation device 1 generates ball game information for each play of a ball game in which an advantage in the outcome of a game can be gained by competing for territory. Examples of ball games in which an advantage in the outcome of a game can be gained by competing for territory include American football and rugby. In the following examples, American football will be described as a ball game in which an advantage in the outcome of a game can be gained by competing for territory. For example, the information generation device 1 acquires play information from the service providing device 3, including the start position of a play in a specific direction of the playing field, the play time, and the play name for a first play. The information generation device 1 then generates, as ball game information for the first play, a ball game information graphic based on the start position of the first play, which is located close to the first direction and in the second direction in the ball game information for a second play performed immediately before the first play. The first direction here refers to the direction in which time passes. The second direction here refers to the offensive direction in which the play progresses. The information generating device 1 then distributes ball game image information to which the newly generated ball game information of the first play has been added to the mobile information terminal 5. Note that one play here means, for example, a down, which refers to one play by the offensive (attacking) side. For example, a down is a unit of attack from when the ball is snapped until the play stops due to a failed pass or a tackle by the carrier, and the next attack begins, and is synonymous with the play referred to here.

[0016] The service providing device 3 provides play information for each play to the information generating device 1. As one example, the service providing device 3 transmits play information input by the service provider for each play to the information generating device 1. As another example, the service providing device 3 may transmit play information automatically input for each play by video image analysis processing to the information generating device 1. Note that the video image analysis processing may be processing that uses technology for analyzing video images.

[0017] The mobile information terminal 5 is a terminal used to receive services, such as displaying ball game image information. The mobile information terminal 5 is, for example, a mobile phone such as a smartphone, but is not limited to this and may be a terminal such as a PDA (Personal Digital Assistant) or a portable personal computer. As an example, the mobile information terminal 5 may be any other type of terminal as long as it has wireless communication functions and input / output operation functions.

[0018] The information generating device 1 has a control unit 10 and a storage unit 20. The control unit 10 has an acquisition unit 11, a generation unit 12, and an output unit 13. The storage unit 20 has a play information table 21 and ball game image information 22.

[0019] The play information table 21 is a table that stores information about each play, including the starting position, playing time, and play name. Each piece of play information stored in the play information table 21 is transmitted by the service providing device 3.

[0020] An example of a play information table according to the first embodiment will now be described with reference to FIG. 2. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a play information table according to the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 2, the play information table 21 stores a team name, ball position information, result information, game time, video information, and play name in association with each other. The team name is the name of the offensive team. The ball position information is information indicating the start position of a play. The ball position information may be information indicating the start position of a play using, for example, the yard lines of the field. The game time is the start time of a play. The video information is information of a URL (Uniform Resource Locator) indicating the location where a video image of a play exists. Some plays may have video information, while others may not. The play name is the name of the play.

[0021] For example, if the team name is "A" and the ball position information is "opponent's 45-yard line," the result information is stored as "success," the game time is "15:30," the video information is "video URL 1," and the play name is "21-yard gain." This indicates that for team "A," the play started at "15:30" and a play of "21-yard gain" was executed with the play starting at "opponent's 45-yard line." This play information indicates that a video image exists at "video URL 1."

[0022] Returning to FIG. 1, the ball game image information 22 is image information in which ball game information graphics for each play are arranged in chronological order, with each play positioned at the start of the play. For example, in the ball game image information 22, the vertical direction represents the passage of time, the horizontal direction represents the attacking direction, and icons indicating the start position of each play are arranged. In addition, in the ball game image information 22, rectangular graphics containing the play name and result information and animated icons indicating links to video information are arranged adjacent to the icons. The icons, rectangular graphics, and animated icons referred to here are each an example of ball game information graphics. The vertical direction is an example of a first direction, and the horizontal direction is an example of a second direction. An example of the ball game image information 22 will be described later.

[0023] The acquisition unit 11 sequentially acquires play information from the service providing device 3. Then, the acquisition unit 11 stores the acquired play information in the play information table .

[0024] The generation unit 12 generates ball game image information 22 including the latest play information. For example, the generation unit 12 reads the latest play information and the immediately preceding play information from the play information table 21. The generation unit 12 reads the latest ball game image information 22 from the storage unit 20. The generation unit 12 then draws (places) an icon of the play indicated by the latest play information in the ball game image information 22 according to the position of the icon of the play indicated by the immediately preceding play information. As an example, the generation unit 12 adds an icon as a ball game information graphic of the latest play to the ball game image information 22, at the start position of the latest play that is vertically adjacent to and horizontally adjacent to the icon indicating the start position of the immediately preceding play. The generation unit 12 may then add a rectangular graphic indicating the play name and result information and a video icon indicating a link to video information to the ball game image information 22, as the ball game information graphic of the latest play, in positions adjacent to the icon indicating the start position of the play. That is, the generation unit 12 adds a ball game information graphic including an icon indicating the starting position of the latest play to the ball game image information 22 to generate the latest ball game image information 22.

[0025] The output unit 13 outputs the ball game image information 22. That is, the output unit 13 distributes the ball game image information 22 generated by the generation unit 12 to the mobile information terminal 5 via the network 7.

[0026] Here, an example of a method for drawing ball game information graphics according to Example 1 will be described with reference to Fig. 3. Fig. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a method for drawing ball game information graphics according to Example 1. Fig. 3 shows a case where a first play icon and a second play icon are drawn in ball game image information 22. The second play icon is an icon indicating the start position of the latest play. The first play icon is an icon indicating the start position of the immediately preceding play.

[0027] As shown in FIG. 3, the vertical direction (first direction) indicates the passage of time. The horizontal direction (second direction) indicates the attack direction. The generation unit 12 adds a second play icon to the ball game image information 22 as a ball game information graphic of the latest play, at the start position of the latest play that is located in the second direction and close to the first direction of the first play icon indicating the start position of the play that took place immediately before the latest play. The difference in the second direction between the first play icon and the second play icon indicates the distance traveled by the ball. In other words, this difference indicates the distance traveled by the ball in the first play (the immediately previous play).

[0028] In addition, the generation unit 12 may add rectangular shapes indicating the play name and result information and video icons indicating links to video information to the ball game image information 22 adjacent to each of the first play icon and the second play icon as ball game information graphics for each play.

[0029] The output unit 13 then outputs the ball game image information 22 generated by the generation unit 12 to the spectator's mobile information terminal 5. This allows spectators to instantly determine the distance the ball traveled by looking at the two most recent icons, making it easier to understand plays that resulted in significant gains during the game. Furthermore, by adding video icons that link to video information to the ball game image information 22, spectators can easily refer to videos of plays. Furthermore, spectators can easily estimate the difference in ability between opposing teams, which cannot be determined by the score difference alone, and can refer to the video as analysis data when predicting the outcome.

[0030] Fig. 4 is a diagram showing an example of ball game image information according to Example 1. In the ball game image information 22 shown in Fig. 4, ball game information graphics of plays indicated by each piece of play information stored in the play information table 21 shown in Fig. 2 are drawn.

[0031] In the ball game image information 22, the vertical direction is the direction indicating the passage of time (first direction), and the horizontal direction is the attacking direction (second direction). In the drawing portions indicated by symbols a1 and a3, ball game information graphics of a play in which team A is on offense are drawn. In the drawing portion indicated by symbol a2, ball game information graphics of a play in which team B is on offense are drawn. Here, for example, the drawing portion indicated by symbol a3 will be described with reference to the play information table 21 shown in FIG. 2.

[0032] In this example, Team A intercepts a pass thrown by Team B and gains possession. Team A then executes a "21-yard gain" play.

[0033] Then, the acquisition unit 11 acquires play information indicating "gain of 21 yards" as the latest play from the service providing device 3, and stores it in the play information table 21. The stored play information is represented by the code <1> The generation unit 12 adds an icon to the ball game image information 22 as a ball game information graphic of the latest play, at the start position of the latest play that is located in the second direction and close to the icon indicating the start position of the previous play that took place immediately before the latest play. In addition, the generation unit 12 adds a rectangular graphic indicating the play name and result information and an animated icon indicating a link to animated video information, adjacent to the icon, as a ball game information graphic of the latest play. Here, the generation unit 12 adds the symbol <1> The generation unit 12 adds an icon indicating the start position of the read play name "21-yard gain" to "opponent's 45-yard line," which is close to the direction indicating the passage of time (first direction) of the icon indicating the start position of the "intercept" made immediately before the latest play and is located in the offensive direction (second direction). The generation unit 12 then adds a rectangular shape indicating the play name "21-yard gain" to the ball game image information 22 in a position adjacent to the icon, and adds a video icon indicating a link to video information to the ball game image information 22. The output unit 13 then outputs the latest ball game image information 22 to the mobile information terminal 5.

[0034] Next, Team A begins a play for "first down."

[0035] Then, the acquisition unit 11 acquires play information indicating "first down" as the latest play from the service providing device 3, and stores it in the play information table 21. The stored play information is represented by the code <2> The generator 12 generates the code <2> The generation unit 12 adds an icon indicating the start position of the read play name "first down" to "opponent's 25 yard line," which is close to the direction indicating the passage of time (first direction) of the icon indicating the start position of the "21-yard gain" that took place immediately before the latest play and is located in the offensive direction (second direction). The generation unit 12 then adds a rectangular shape indicating the play name "first down" to the ball game image information 22 in a position adjacent to the icon, and adds a video icon indicating a link to video information to the ball game image information 22. The output unit 13 then outputs the latest ball game image information 22 to the mobile information terminal 5.

[0036] Team A then completes a "first down" play.

[0037] Then, the acquisition unit 11 acquires play information with no description in the play name as the latest play from the service providing device 3, and stores it in the play information table 21. The stored play information is represented by the code <3> The generator 12 generates the code <3> The generation unit 12 adds an icon indicating the start position of the latest play to "opponent's 11 yards" which is close to the direction (first direction) indicating the passage of time of the icon indicating the start position of the "first down" made immediately before the latest play and is located in the offensive direction (second direction). <3> Since there is no description of the play name in the image 22, a rectangular shape indicating the play name and an animated icon indicating a link to the animated image information are not placed in the ball game image information 22. Then, the output unit 13 outputs the latest ball game image information 22 to the mobile information terminal 5.

[0038] Next, Team A begins a play for "first down."

[0039] Then, the acquisition unit 11 acquires play information indicating "first down" as the latest play from the service providing device 3, and stores it in the play information table 21. The stored play information is represented by the code <4> The generator 12 generates the code <4> The generation unit 12 adds an icon indicating the start position of the read play name "first down" to "opponent's 8 yard line," which is close to the direction indicating the passage of time (first direction) of the icon indicating the start position of the play that took place immediately before the latest play and is located in the offensive direction (second direction). The generation unit 12 then adds a rectangular shape indicating the play name "first down" to the ball game image information 22 adjacent to the icon, and adds a video icon indicating a link to video information to the ball game image information 22. The output unit 13 then outputs the latest ball game image information 22 to the mobile information terminal 5.

[0040] Now, Team A scores a "touchdown" as the completion of a "first down" play, meaning that Team A gets the ball into Team B's end zone.

[0041] Then, the acquisition unit 11 acquires play information indicating "touchdown" as the latest play from the service providing device 3, and stores it in the play information table 21. The stored play information is represented by the code <5> The generator 12 generates the code <5> The generation unit 12 adds an icon indicating the start position of the read play name "touchdown" to the opponent's end zone corresponding to "touchdown," which is located in the offensive direction (second direction) and close to the direction indicating the passage of time (first direction) of the icon indicating the start position of the play that took place immediately before the latest play. The generation unit 12 then adds a rectangular shape indicating "TOUCHDOWN" and the score information "6-0" to the ball game image information 22 in a position adjacent to the icon, and adds a video icon indicating a link to video information to the ball game image information 22. The output unit 13 then outputs the latest ball game image information 22 to the mobile information terminal 5.

[0042] As a result, the information generating device 1 can provide ball game image information 22 that allows spectators to instantly identify the distance the ball traveled based on the relative positions of the two nearest icons and makes it easy to understand plays that resulted in significant gains during the game. In other words, the information generating device 1 can provide ball game image information 22 that allows spectators to easily identify specific plays that had a major impact on the game.

[0043] [Flowchart of information generation process] An example of a flowchart of the information generation process according to the first embodiment will now be described with reference to Fig. 5. Fig. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of a flowchart of the information generation process according to the first embodiment. The service providing device 3 transmits play information input for each play to the information generating device 1.

[0044] The acquisition unit 11 acquires the latest play information and stores it in the play information table 21 of the storage unit 20 (step S11). Then, the generation unit 12 reads the most recent play information from the play information table 21 of the storage unit 20 (step S12). The generation unit 12 reads the latest ball game image information 22 from the storage unit 20 (step S13).

[0045] The generation unit 12 adds the icon of the latest play information to the ball game image information 22 according to the position of the icon of the immediately preceding play information (step S14). For example, the generation unit 12 adds the icon of the latest play information to the following position in the ball game image information 22: That is, the generation unit 12 adds the icon of the latest play information to the start position of the latest play that is vertically adjacent to and horizontally positioned next to the icon indicating the start position of the immediately preceding play that was performed immediately before the latest play.

[0046] Then, if the latest play information contains video information or a play name, the generation unit 12 adds the video information or the play name to the ball game image information 22 according to the position of the icon in the latest play information (step S15). For example, the generation unit 12 determines whether or not video information or a play name is stored in the latest play information. If video information or a play name is stored in the latest play information, the generation unit 12 adds a rectangular shape indicating the play name and result information, and a video icon indicating a link to the video information, to the ball game image information 22, adjacent to the icon of the latest play information.

[0047] The generation unit 12 then stores the ball game image information 22, to which the latest play information has been added, in the storage unit 20 (step S16). The output unit 13 then transmits the ball game image information 22 to the Internet using the HTTPS protocol (step S17). As a result, the output unit 13 distributes the ball game image information 22 to the mobile information terminal 5.

[0048] [Effects of Example 1] In this way, in a ball game in which the position of the ball can determine the outcome of the game, the information generating device 1 acquires play information for a first play, including the start position of the play in a specific direction of the ball game field. The information generating device 1 then generates, as ball game information for the first play, a ball game information graphic based on the start position of a second play, which was played immediately before the first play, at the start position that is close to the first direction and located in the second direction. With this configuration, the information generating device 1 can provide ball game information that makes it easy for spectators to identify specific plays that had a significant impact on the game by using the ball game information graphic based on the start position of the play. As a result, the information generating device 1 can improve spectator satisfaction.

[0049] Furthermore, the information generating device 1 generates an icon indicating the start position of the first play at the start position located in the second direction as ball game information for the first play. With this configuration, the information generating device 1 can provide ball game information that makes it easy for spectators to identify specific plays that had a major impact on the game by using an icon indicating the start position of the play. As a result, the information generating device 1 can improve spectator satisfaction. [Example]

[0050] It has been explained that the information generation device 1 according to the first embodiment adds a ball game information graphic based on the start position of the first play to the ball game image information 22 at the start position of the first play as ball game information for the first play. It has also been explained that the information generation device 1 may add a ball game information graphic indicating a play name and result information in association with the ball game information graphic based on the start position of the first play to the ball game image information 22 as ball game information for the first play. However, the information generation device 1 is not limited to this, and may also add a ball game information graphic having a size based on the start and end positions of the first play at the start position of the first play to the ball game image information 22 as ball game information for the first play.

[0051] Therefore, in Example 2, a case will be described in which the information generating device 1 adds a ball game information graphic having a size based on the start and end positions of the first play to the ball game image information 22 as ball game information for the first play at the start position of the first play.

[0052] Note that, with regard to the functional configuration of the information generating device 1 according to Example 2, the same components as those of the information generating device 1 shown in Fig. 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant explanations of the configuration and operation will be omitted. Example 1 and Example 2 differ in that the generation unit 12 is changed to a generation unit 12A. Example 1 and Example 2 also differ in that the play information table 21 and the ball game image information 22 are changed to a play information table 21A and ball game image information 22A, respectively.

[0053] Here, a method for drawing ball game information graphics according to Example 2 will be described with reference to Fig. 6. Fig. 6 is a diagram showing an example of a method for drawing ball game information graphics according to Example 2. Note that "29-yard pass" is the latest play, and "first down" is the immediately preceding play.

[0054] As shown in FIG. 6, the vertical direction (first direction) indicates the passage of time. The horizontal direction (second direction) indicates the offensive direction. The generation unit 12A of the information generation device 1 adds a ball game information graphic of the latest play, which is close to the first direction of the ball game information graphic of the immediately preceding play and has a size based on the start position and end position of the latest play located in the second direction, to the ball game image information 22A as the ball game information graphic of the latest play. The ball game information graphic here is a rectangular shape. The rectangular shape is arranged from the start position of the play toward the offensive direction. The rectangular shape is associated with a play name and result information. Here, the difference between the start position and end position of the "first down" indicates the distance traveled by the ball. The difference between the start position and end position of the "29-yard pass" indicates the distance traveled by the ball.

[0055] Additionally, the generation unit 12A may add an animated icon indicating a link to the video information to the ball game image information 22A in a position that does not overlap with the ball game information graphic of the play. Here, the animated icon is placed in a position adjacent to the start position of the play. This allows the generation unit 12 to draw the animated icon in the same first direction as the ball game information of the play, and to avoid interference with the ball game information of the next play.

[0056] The output unit 13 then outputs the ball game image information 22A generated by the generation unit 12A to the mobile information terminal 5 of the spectator. This allows the spectator to easily understand the progress of the ball as the game progresses by looking at the ball game information of the plays. In other words, it becomes easier for the spectator to understand important plays during the game. Furthermore, by adding a video icon indicating a link to video information to the ball game image information 22A, it becomes easier for the spectator to refer to the video of the plays. Furthermore, it becomes easier for the spectator to estimate the difference in ability between the opposing teams, which cannot be determined by the score difference alone, and the spectator can refer to the video as analysis data when predicting the outcome.

[0057] 6 does not depict a play icon at the start position of a play, but a play icon may be depicted at the start position of a play. In such a case, the generation unit 12A adds a play icon indicating the start position of the most recent play, which is close to the first direction of the ball game information graphic of the immediately preceding play and located in the second direction, to the ball game image information 22A as the ball game information graphic of the most recent play. Then, the generation unit 12A adds a ball game information graphic having a size based on the start position and end position of the most recent play to the ball game image information 22A as the ball game information graphic of the most recent play.

[0058] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of a play information table according to the second embodiment. As shown in FIG. 7, the play information table 21A stores team names, ball position information (start), ball position information (end), result information, game time, video information, and play names in association with each other. The team name is the name of the offensive team. The ball position information (start) is information on the start position of a play. The ball position information (start) may be information on the start position of a play using the yard lines of the field. The ball position information (end) is information on the end position of a play. The ball position information (end) may be information on the end position of a play using the yard lines of the field. The game time is the start time of a play. The video information is information on a URL linking an image of a video of a play. Some plays have video information, while others do not. The play name is the name of the play.

[0059] As an example, if the team name is "A," the ball position information (start) is "opponent's 45-yard line," and the ball position information (end) is "opponent's 24-yard line," the result information is stored as "success" and the game time is stored as "15:30." Additionally, "video URL 1" is stored as the video information, and "21-yard gain" is stored as the play name. In other words, it indicates that for team "A," a play of "21-yard gain" was executed, with the start time of the play being "opponent's 45-yard line," the start position of the play being "opponent's 24-yard line," and the end position of the play being "opponent's 24-yard line." This play information indicates that a video image is stored in "video URL 1."

[0060] Fig. 8 is a diagram showing an example of ball game image information according to Example 2. Ball game image information 22A shown in Fig. 8 corresponds to the ball game image information 22 shown in Fig. 4, and each play has the same content.

[0061] In the ball game image information 22A, the vertical direction is the direction indicating the passage of time (first direction), and the horizontal direction is the attacking direction (second direction). In the drawing portions indicated by symbols a1 and a3, ball game information graphics of a play in which team A is on offense are drawn. In the drawing portion indicated by symbol a2, ball game information graphics of a play in which team B is on offense are drawn. Here, for example, the drawing portion indicated by symbol a3 will be explained with appropriate reference to the play information table 21A shown in FIG. 7. Also, in FIG. 8, a play icon is drawn at the start position of the play.

[0062] In this example, Team A intercepts a pass thrown by Team B and gains possession. Team A then executes a "21-yard gain" play.

[0063] The acquisition unit 11 then acquires play information indicating a "gain of 21 yards" as the latest play from the service providing device 3 and stores the play information in the play information table 21A. The generation unit 12A then performs the following process using the play information table 21A. Specifically, the generation unit 12A adds a play icon indicating the start position of the latest play, which is close to the first direction of the ball game information graphic of the immediately preceding play and located in the second direction, to the ball game image information 22A as the ball game information graphic of the latest play. The generation unit 12A then adds a ball game information graphic having a size based on the start position and end position of the latest play to the ball game image information 22A as the ball game information graphic of the latest play. Furthermore, the generation unit 12A adds a video icon indicating a link to video information to the ball game image information 22A in a position that does not overlap with the ball game information graphic of the latest play. In this example, the generation unit 12A adds an icon g1 indicating a start position to the ball game image information 22A at "opponent's 45 yards," which is close to the direction indicating the passage of time (first direction) of the rectangular shape of the "intercept" made immediately before the latest play and is located in the offensive direction (second direction). The generation unit 12A then adds a rectangular shape g2, whose size is based on the start position "opponent's 45 yards" and end position "opponent's 24 yards," of the latest play "gained 21 yards," to the ball game image information 22A. Furthermore, the generation unit 12A adds a video icon g3 indicating a link to video information in a position that does not overlap with the ball game information shape of the latest play. The output unit 13 then outputs the latest ball game image information 22A to the mobile information terminal 5.

[0064] Next, Team A begins a play for "first down."

[0065] The acquisition unit 11 then acquires play information indicating a "first down" as the latest play from the service providing device 3 and stores it in the play information table 21A. The generation unit 12A then performs the following process using the play information table 21A. Specifically, the generation unit 12A adds an icon indicating a start position to the ball game image information 22A at "opponent's 25 yards," which is close to the direction indicating the passage of time (first direction) of the rectangular shape of the "21-yard gain" made immediately before the latest play and is located in the offensive direction (second direction). The generation unit 12A then adds a rectangular shape, whose size is based on the start position and end position of the latest play, "first gain," at "opponent's 25 yards," to the ball game image information 22A. Furthermore, the generation unit 12A adds a video icon indicating a link to video information in a position that does not overlap with the ball game information shape of the latest play. The output unit 13 then outputs the latest ball game image information 22A to the mobile information terminal 5.

[0066] Team A then completes a "first down" play.

[0067] The acquisition unit 11 then acquires play information with no description in the play name as the latest play from the service providing device 3 and stores it in the play information table 21A. The generation unit 12A then performs the following process using the play information table 21A. Specifically, the generation unit 12A adds an icon indicating the start position to the ball game image information 22A at "opponent's 11 yards," which is close to the direction indicating the passage of time (first direction) of the rectangular shape of the "first down" made immediately before the latest play and is located in the offensive direction (second direction). The generation unit 12A then adds a rectangular shape, whose size is based on the start position and end position of the latest play, "opponent's 11 yards," to the ball game image information 22A at "opponent's 11 yards." The output unit 13 then outputs the latest ball game image information 22A to the mobile information terminal 5.

[0068] Next, Team A begins a play for "first down."

[0069] The acquisition unit 11 then acquires play information indicating "first down" as the latest play from the service providing device 3 and stores it in the play information table 21A. The generation unit 12A then performs the following process using the play information table 21A. Specifically, the generation unit 12A adds an icon indicating the start position to the ball game image information 22A at "opponent's 8 yards," which is close to the direction indicating the passage of time (first direction) of the rectangular shape of the play made immediately before the latest play and is located in the offensive direction (second direction). The generation unit 12A then adds a rectangular shape, whose size is based on the start position and end position of the latest play, "first gain," at "opponent's 8 yards," to the ball game image information 22A. Furthermore, the generation unit 12A adds an animated icon indicating a link to animated information in a position that does not overlap with the ball game information shape of the latest play. The output unit 13 then outputs the latest ball game image information 22A to the mobile information terminal 5.

[0070] Now, Team A scores a "touchdown" as the completion of a "first down" play, meaning that Team A gets the ball into Team B's end zone.

[0071] The acquisition unit 11 then acquires play information indicating a "touchdown" as the latest play from the service providing device 3 and stores the play information in the play information table 21A. The generation unit 12A then performs the following process using the play information table 21A. Specifically, the generation unit 12A adds an icon indicating a start position to the opponent's end zone corresponding to the "touchdown," which is close to the direction indicating the passage of time (first direction) of the rectangular shape of the "first down" made immediately before the latest play and is located in the offensive direction (second direction). The generation unit 12A then adds a rectangular shape, whose size is based on the start position and end position (0 yards into the opponent's end zone) of the latest play, "touchdown," to the opponent's end zone corresponding to the start position ("touchdown") of the latest play. Furthermore, the generation unit 12A adds an animated icon indicating a link to animated information in a position that does not overlap with the ball game information graphic of the latest play. In addition, the generation unit 12A adds a new rectangular shape indicating "TOUCHDOWN" and the score information "6-0" in association with the rectangular shape to the ball game image information 22. Then, the output unit 13 outputs the latest ball game image information 22A to the mobile information terminal 5.

[0072] This allows the information generating device 1 to provide ball game image information 22A that makes it easy to grasp the progress of the ball over the course of a game, based on the width of a rectangular shape whose size is based on the start and end positions of each play. That is, the information generating device 1 can provide ball game image information 22A that makes it easy to grasp important plays during a game. That is, the information generating device 1 can provide ball game image information 22A that makes it easy for spectators to identify specific plays that had a major impact on the game.

[0073] [Effects of Example 2] In this way, the information generating device 1 generates, as ball game information for the first play, a ball game information graphic whose size is based on the start and end positions of the first play, at a start position located in the second direction. With this configuration, the information generating device 1 can provide ball game information that makes it easy for spectators to identify specific plays that had a significant impact on the game. As a result, the information generating device 1 can improve spectator satisfaction.

[0074] Furthermore, the information generating device 1 generates the ball game information graphic by associating it with the result information of the first play. With this configuration, the information generating device 1 can provide ball game information that makes it easy for spectators to identify the content of a specific play that had a significant impact on the game.

[0075] Furthermore, the information generating device 1 generates a video-referenced image that links to the video of the first play at a position that does not overlap with the position where the ball game information graphic is drawn. With this configuration, the information generating device 1 can avoid interference with the ball game information of the next play. [Example]

[0076] It has been explained that the information generation device 1 according to the first embodiment adds a ball game information graphic based on the start position of the first play to the ball game image information 22 at the start position of the first play as ball game information for the first play. It has also been explained that the information generation device 1 may add a ball game information graphic indicating a play name and result information in association with the ball game information graphic based on the start position of the first play to the ball game image information 22 as ball game information for the first play. It has also been explained that the information generation device 1 according to the second embodiment adds a ball game information graphic having a size based on the start and end positions of the first play to the ball game image information 22 at the start position of the first play as ball game information for the first play. However, the information generation device 1 is not limited to this. It may also change the display pattern of the ball game information graphic having a size based on the start and end positions of the first play in accordance with the ball progress attribute in the first play. Examples of the ball progress attribute here include, but are not limited to, "run," indicating a run, "pass," indicating a pass, and "foul," indicating a foul.

[0077] Therefore, in Example 3, a case is described in which the information generating device 1 changes the display pattern within a ball game information graphic having a size based on the start and end positions in the first play, depending on the ball's progress attributes in the first play.

[0078] Note that, with regard to the functional configuration of the information generating device 1 according to Example 3, the same components as those of the information generating device 1 shown in Fig. 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant explanations of the configuration and operation will be omitted. Example 3 differs from Example 1 in that the generation unit 12 is changed to a generation unit 12B. Example 1 also differs from Example 3 in that the play information table 21 and the ball game image information 22 are changed to a play information table 21B and ball game image information 22B, respectively.

[0079] Here, a method for drawing ball game information graphics according to the third embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 9. Fig. 9 is a diagram showing an example of a method for drawing ball game information graphics according to the third embodiment.

[0080] As shown in FIG. 9 , the vertical direction (first direction) indicates the passage of time. The horizontal direction (second direction) indicates the attacking direction. The generation unit 12B of the information generation device 1 adds a ball game information graphic of the latest play, which is close to the first direction of the ball game information graphic of the immediately preceding play and located in the second direction, to the ball game image information 22B as the ball game information graphic of the latest play. The generation unit 12B then changes the display pattern within the ball game information graphic according to the ball progress attribute of the latest play. The ball game information graphic here is a rectangular shape. Here, for the play information in the first row, a rectangular shape whose size is based on the start and end positions is displayed at the start position of the play. The rectangular shape displays "pass" and "run" in a 1:3 ratio. The display patterns for "pass" and "run" are changed. Furthermore, for the play information in the second row, a rectangular shape whose size is based on the start and end positions is displayed at the start position of the play. The rectangular shape represents a "foul." A "foul" is displayed in a different display pattern from the other ball movement attributes, "pass" and "run."

[0081] Then, the output unit 13 outputs the ball game image information 22B generated by the generation unit 12B to the mobile information terminal 5 of the spectator. This makes it easier for the spectator to understand the progress of each play. For example, the spectator can understand that the "21-yard gain" was mostly a pass, or that it was a pass and a run. In other words, the spectator can easily understand important plays during the game.

[0082] Although FIG. 9 does not depict a play icon at the start position of a play, a play icon may be depicted at the start position of a play. In such a case, the generation unit 12B adds a play icon indicating the start position of the most recent play, which is adjacent to the ball game information graphic of the immediately preceding play in the first direction and located in the second direction, to the ball game image information 22B as the ball game information graphic of the most recent play. The generation unit 12A then adds a ball game information graphic having a size based on the start and end positions of the most recent play to the ball game image information 22B as the ball game information graphic of the most recent play. In this case, the generation unit 12B may change the display pattern of the ball game information graphic depending on the ball progress attribute in the most recent play. The generation unit 12B may also add a video icon indicating a link to video information to the ball game image information 22B in a position that does not overlap with the ball game information graphic of the play.

[0083] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a play information table according to the third embodiment. As shown in FIG. 10, the play information table 21B stores team names, ball position information (start), ball position information (end), result information, game time, video information, play names, progression means, and progression means ratios in association with each other. The items from the team name to the play name are the same as the items shown in FIG. 7, and therefore their description will be omitted. The progression means corresponds to the ball progression attributes. Examples of progression means include "pass," "run," and "foul." The progression means ratio indicates the ratio of the ball progression attributes in a play indicated by one play name. The progression means ratio is set according to the number of progression means.

[0084] For example, if the team name is "A," the ball position information (start) is "opponent's 45-yard line," and the ball position information (end) is "opponent's 24-yard line," the result information is stored as "success" and the play time is stored as "15:30." Additionally, the video information is stored as "video URL 1," and the play name is "21-yard gain." Furthermore, the progression method is stored as "pass → run," and the progression method ratio is stored as "3:1." In other words, for team "A," a "21-yard gain" play was executed, with the start time of the play being "opponent's 45-yard line," the start position of the play being "opponent's 24-yard line," and the end position being "opponent's 24-yard line." This play information indicates that a video image is stored in "video URL 1." Furthermore, it indicates that the "21-yard gain" play was progressed by a "pass" and a "run," with a "pass" to "run" ratio of 3:1.

[0085] Fig. 11 is a diagram showing an example of ball game image information according to Example 3. Ball game image information 22B shown in Fig. 11 corresponds to ball game image information 22 shown in Fig. 4 and ball game image information 22A shown in Fig. 8, and each play has the same content.

[0086] In the ball game image information 22B, the vertical direction is the direction indicating the passage of time (first direction), and the horizontal direction is the attacking direction (second direction). In the drawing portions indicated by symbols a1 and a3, ball game information graphics of a play when team A is on offense are drawn. In the drawing portion indicated by symbol a2, ball game information graphics of a play when team B is on offense are drawn. Here, for example, the drawing portion indicated by symbol a3 will be explained with appropriate reference to the play information table 21B shown in FIG. 10. In addition, in FIG. 11, a play icon is drawn at the start position of the play.

[0087] In this example, Team A intercepts a pass thrown by Team B and gains possession. Team A then executes a "21-yard gain" play.

[0088] The acquisition unit 11 then acquires play information indicating a "gain of 21 yards" as the latest play from the service providing device 3 and stores the play information in the play information table 21B. The generation unit 12B then performs the following process using the play information table 21B. Specifically, the generation unit 12B adds a play icon indicating the start position of the latest play, which is close to the first direction of the ball game information graphic of the immediately preceding play and located in the second direction, to the ball game image information 22B as the ball game information graphic of the latest play. The generation unit 12B then adds a ball game information graphic having a size based on the start position and end position of the latest play to the ball game image information 22B as the ball game information graphic of the latest play. At this time, the generation unit 12B changes the display pattern in the ball game information graphic depending on the ball progress attribute in the latest play. In this example, the generation unit 12B adds an icon g11 indicating a start position to the ball game image information 22B at "opponent's 45 yards," which is close to the direction indicating the passage of time (first direction) of the rectangular shape of the "intercept" made immediately before the latest play and is located in the attacking direction (second direction). The generation unit 12B then adds a rectangular shape g12, whose size is based on the start position "opponent's 45 yards" and end position "opponent's 24 yards," of the latest play "gaining 21 yards" to the ball game image information 22B. At this time, the generation unit 12B references the play information table 21B to acquire the progress method and progress method ratio for the latest play "gaining 21 yards." Since the progress method is "pass → run" and the progress method ratio is "3:1," the generation unit 12B displays the display pattern g12 of "pass" within the rectangular shape g12 for 3 / 4 of the way from the start position. a The display pattern g12 of "Run" from the end of "Pass" to the end position b Then, the output unit 13 outputs the latest ball game image information 22B to the mobile information terminal 5.

[0089] Next, Team A begins a play for "first down."

[0090] The acquisition unit 11 then acquires play information indicating a "first down" as the latest play from the service providing device 3 and stores the information in the play information table 21B. The generation unit 12B then performs the following process using the play information table 21B. Specifically, the generation unit 12B adds an icon indicating a start position to the ball game image information 22B at "opponent's 25 yards," which is close to the direction indicating the passage of time (first direction) of the rectangular shape of the "21-yard gain" made immediately before the latest play and is located in the offensive direction (second direction). The generation unit 12B then adds a rectangular shape, whose size is based on the start position and end position of the latest play, "first gain," at "opponent's 25 yards," to the ball game image information 22B. At this time, the generation unit 12B references the play information table 21B to acquire the progress method and progress method ratio for the latest play, "first gain." Since the progression means is "pass" and the progression means ratio is "1", the generation unit 12B changes the display pattern of the rectangular shape from the start position to the end position to "pass". Then, the output unit 13 outputs the latest ball game image information 22B to the mobile information terminal 5.

[0091] Team A then completes a "first down" play.

[0092] The acquisition unit 11 then acquires play information with no description in the play name as the latest play from the service providing device 3 and stores it in the play information table 21B. The generation unit 12B then performs the following process using the play information table 21B. Specifically, the generation unit 12B adds an icon indicating the start position to the ball game image information 22 at "opponent's 11 yards," which is close to the direction indicating the passage of time (first direction) of the rectangular shape of the "first down" made immediately before the latest play and is located in the offensive direction (second direction). The generation unit 12B then adds a rectangular shape, whose size is based on the start position and end position of the latest play, "opponent's 11 yards," to the ball game image information 22. At this time, the generation unit 12B references the play information table 21B to acquire the progress method and progress method ratio for the latest play. Since the progression means is "run" and the progression means ratio is "1," the generation unit 12B changes the display pattern of the rectangular shape from the start position to the end position to "run." Then, the output unit 13 outputs the latest ball game image information 22B to the mobile information terminal 5.

[0093] Next, Team A begins a play for "first down."

[0094] The acquisition unit 11 then acquires play information indicating "first down" as the latest play from the service providing device 3 and stores the information in the play information table 21B. The generation unit 12B then performs the following process using the play information table 21B. Specifically, the generation unit 12B adds an icon indicating a start position to the ball game image information 22 at "opponent's 8 yards," which is close to the direction indicating the passage of time (first direction) of the rectangular shape of the play made immediately before the latest play and is located in the offensive direction (second direction). The generation unit 12B then adds a rectangular shape, whose size is based on the start position and end position of the latest play, "first gain," at "opponent's 8 yards," to the ball game image information 22. At this time, the generation unit 12B references the play information table 21B to acquire the progress method and progress method ratio for the latest play. Because the progress method is "run" and the progress method ratio is "1," the generation unit 12B changes the display pattern of the rectangular shape from the start position to the end position to "run." Then, the output unit 13 outputs the latest ball game image information 22B to the mobile information terminal 5.

[0095] Now, Team A scores a "touchdown" as the completion of a "first down" play, meaning that Team A gets the ball into Team B's end zone.

[0096] The acquisition unit 11 then acquires play information indicating a "touchdown" as the latest play from the service providing device 3 and stores the information in the play information table 21B. The generation unit 12B then performs the following process using the play information table 21B. Specifically, the generation unit 12B adds an icon indicating a starting position to the ball game image information 22 in the opponent's end zone corresponding to the "touchdown," which is close to the direction (first direction) indicating the passage of time of the rectangular shape of the "first down" made immediately before the latest play and is located in the offensive direction (second direction). The generation unit 12B then adds a rectangular shape, whose size is based on the starting position and the ending position "0 yards into the opponent's territory" of the latest play, to the opponent's end zone corresponding to the starting position of the latest play, "touchdown," in the ball game image information 22. At this time, the generation unit 12B acquires the progress method and progress method ratio for the latest play by referring to the play information table 21B. Since the progression means is "run" and the progression means ratio is "1," generation unit 12B changes the display pattern within the rectangular shape to "run" from the start position to the end position. In addition, generation unit 12B adds a new rectangular shape indicating "TOUCHDOWN" and the score information "6-0" to ball game image information 22B in association with the rectangular shape. Then, output unit 13 outputs the latest ball game image information 22B to mobile information terminal 5.

[0097] As a result, the information generating device 1 can provide ball game image information 22B that makes it easy to grasp the progress of plays over the course of a game, by using a display pattern that corresponds to the progress means within a rectangular shape whose size is based on the start and end positions of each play. That is, the information generating device 1 can provide ball game image information 22B that makes it easy to grasp the progress of important plays during a game. That is, the information generating device 1 can provide ball game image information 22B that makes it easy for spectators to identify the progress of specific plays that had a major impact on the game.

[0098] [Effects of Example 3] In this way, the information generating device 1 generates, as ball game information for the first play, a ball game information graphic whose size is based on the start and end positions of the first play, at a start position located in the second direction. The information generating device 1 then changes the display pattern within the ball game information graphic depending on the ball travel attribute in the first play. With this configuration, the information generating device 1 can provide ball game information that makes it easy for spectators to identify the progress of specific plays that had a significant impact on the game. As a result, the information generating device 1 can improve spectator satisfaction. [Example]

[0099] It has been explained that the information generation device 1 according to the first embodiment adds a ball game information graphic based on the start position of the first play to the ball game image information 22 at a start position that is close to the first direction and located in the second direction of the ball game information of the second play that was performed immediately before the first play. It has also been explained that the information generation device 1 may add a ball game information graphic indicating the play name and result information in association with the ball game information graphic based on the start position of the first play to the ball game image information 22. It has also been explained that the information generation device 1 according to the second embodiment adds a ball game information graphic, the size of which is based on the start and end positions of the first play, to the ball game image information 22 at the start position of the first play. However, the information generation device 1 is not limited to this, and may associate the size in the first direction of the ball game information graphic, the size of which is based on the start and end positions of the first play, with the playing time of the first play.

[0100] Therefore, in Example 4, a case will be described in which the information generation device 1 associates the size in the first direction of a ball game information graphic, which has a size based on the start position and end position of the first play, with the playing time of the first play.

[0101] Note that, regarding the functional configuration of the information generating device 1 according to Example 4, the same components as those of the information generating device 1 shown in Fig. 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant explanations of the configuration and operation will be omitted. Example 1 differs from Example 3 in that the generation unit 12 is changed to generation unit 12C. Example 4 also differs from Example 1 in that the ball game image information 22 is changed to ball game image information 22C.

[0102] Here, a method for drawing ball game information graphics according to Example 4 will be described with reference to Fig. 12. Fig. 12 is a diagram showing an example of a method for drawing ball game information graphics according to Example 4. It is assumed that "first down" is the latest play.

[0103] As shown in FIG. 12, the vertical direction (first direction) indicates the passage of time. The horizontal direction (second direction) indicates the offensive direction. The generation unit 12C of the information generation device 1 adds a ball game information graphic having the following size to the ball game image information 22C at the start position of the most recent play, which is close to the first direction of the ball game information graphic of the immediately preceding play and located in the second direction. That is, the size of the ball game information graphic is based on the start and end positions of the play in the second direction, and is based on the start and end times of the play in the first direction. The ball game information graphic here is a rectangular shape. The rectangular shape is associated with a play name and result information. Here, the difference between the start and end positions of the "first down" indicates the distance the ball traveled, and the difference between the start and end times of the "first down" indicates the time required for the "first down" (game time). In addition, the difference between the start and end positions of the "29-yard pass" indicates the distance traveled by the ball, and the difference between the start and end times of the "29-yard pass" indicates the time required for the "29-yard pass" (play time).

[0104] Then, the output unit 13 outputs the ball game image information 22C generated by the generation unit 12C to the spectator's mobile information terminal 5. This makes it easier for spectators to understand the time required for a play by looking at the ball game information of the play. In other words, the information generation device 1 can provide ball game image information 22C that makes it easy to understand the time required for a play based on the vertical width of the ball game information of the play.

[0105] 12, a play icon is not drawn at the start position of a play, but a play icon may be drawn at the start position of a play. Also, in FIG. 12, an animated icon indicating a link to animated information is not drawn at a position that does not overlap with the ball game information graphic of the play, but a animated icon indicating a link to animated information may be drawn.

[0106] [Effects of Example 4] In this way, the information generating device 1 generates, as ball game information for the first play, a ball game information graphic whose size in the first direction is based on the start and end positions of the first play and whose size in the first direction is based on the playing time of the first play, at a start position located in the second direction. With this configuration, the information generating device 1 can provide ball game information that makes it easy to understand the playing time of the play. As a result, the information generating device 1 can improve the satisfaction of spectators.

[0107] [others] The information generating device 1 can be realized by installing the functions of the control unit 10 and the storage unit 20 described above in an information processing device such as a known personal computer or workstation.

[0108] In the above embodiment, the information generating device 1 adds a rectangular graphic and an animated icon indicating the play name and result information to the ball game image information 22 as the ball game information graphic of the latest play, adjacent to the icon (ball game information graphic) indicating the start position of the play. That is, the information generating device 1 places the animated icon adjacent to the ball game information graphic. However, the information generating device 1 is not limited to this, and may use the ball game information graphic itself as the animated icon. That is, the information generating device 1 may use the icon indicating the start position of the play as the animated icon, or may use a rectangular graphic as the animated icon. In this way, the information generating device 1 can generate ball game image information 22 that is visually easy to understand by sharing the animated icon with other ball game information graphics.

[0109] In the above embodiment, the information generating device 1 displays the generated ball game image information 22 on a mobile information terminal 5 carried by a spectator. However, the information generating device 1 is not limited to this, and may display the generated ball game image information on a receiver such as a television. The information generating device 1 may also display the ball game image information 22 simultaneously with a ball game video. The information generating device 1 may also generate ball game image information using the same information generation method for a computer game related to a ball game and display it on a game device.

[0110] Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, the components of the illustrated device do not necessarily have to be physically configured as shown. In other words, the specific manner in which the device is distributed or integrated is not limited to that shown in the drawings. All or part of the device may be functionally or physically distributed or integrated in any unit depending on various loads, usage conditions, and the like. For example, the acquisition unit 11 and the generation unit 12 may be integrated. The generation unit 12 and the output unit 13 may be integrated. Furthermore, the generation unit 12 may be divided into a first generation unit that adds an icon indicating the start position of a play to the ball game image information 22, a second generation unit that adds a rectangular shape indicating the play name, etc., to the ball game image information 22, and a third generation unit that adds a video icon of the play to the ball game image information 22. Furthermore, the storage unit 20 may be connected to the information generating device 1 via a network as an external device.

[0111] The various processes described in the above embodiments can be realized by executing a prepared program on a computer such as a personal computer or a workstation. Therefore, an example of a computer that executes an information generation program that realizes the same functions as the information generating device 1 shown in Fig. 1 will be described below. Fig. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a computer that executes an information generation program.

[0112] 13, computer 200 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 203 that executes various types of arithmetic processing, an input device 215 that accepts data input from a user, and a display device 209. Computer 200 also includes a drive device 213 that reads programs and the like from a storage medium, and a communication I / F (Interface) 217 ​​that transmits and receives data to and from other computers via a network. Computer 200 also includes a memory 201 that temporarily stores various types of information, and an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) 205. Memory 201, CPU 203, HDD 205, display control unit 607, display device 209, drive device 213, input device 215, and communication I / F 217 are connected by a bus 219.

[0113] The drive device 213 is, for example, a device for the removable disk 211. The HDD 205 stores an information generation program 205a and information generation processing related information 205b. The communication I / F 217 manages the interface between the network and the inside of the device, and controls the input and output of data from other computers. For example, a modem or a LAN adapter can be used as the communication I / F 217.

[0114] The display device 209 is a display device that displays a cursor, an icon, a toolbox, and data such as documents, images, and function information. The display device 209 can be, for example, a liquid crystal display or an organic EL (Electroluminescence) display.

[0115] The CPU 203 reads the information generation program 205a, expands it in the memory 201, and executes it as a process. These processes correspond to the functional units of the information generation device 1. The information generation processing related information 205b includes, for example, a play information table 21 and ball game image information 22. The removable disk 211, for example, stores each piece of information such as the information generation program 205a.

[0116] It should be noted that the information generation program 205a does not necessarily have to be stored in the HDD 205 from the beginning. For example, the program may be stored in a "portable physical medium" such as a flexible disk (FD), CD-ROM, DVD disk, magneto-optical disk, or IC card that is inserted into the computer 200. The computer 200 may then read and execute the information generation program 205a from these. [Explanation of symbols]

[0117] 1 Information generation device 3 Service provision equipment 5. Mobile Information Terminals 7 Network 10 Control Unit 11 Acquisition Department 12,12A,12B,12C generation part 13 Output section 20 Memory section 21, 21A, 21B Play Information Table 22, 22A, 22B, 22C Ball Game Image Information

Claims

1. An information generation program for generating information on a ball game in which an advantage in winning or losing can be gained by competing for territory, acquiring play information including a starting position in a specific direction of the ball game field for a first play; At the start position that is close to the first direction of the ball game information of a second play that was performed immediately before the first play and that is located in a second direction, a ball game information graphic based on the start position is generated as the ball game information of the first play. Have the computer execute the process, The generating process further generates, at the start position located in the second direction, the ball game information graphic having a size based on the start position and end position in the first play as the ball game information of the first play. An information generating program comprising:

2. An information generation program for generating information on a ball game in which an advantage in winning or losing can be gained by competing for territory, acquiring play information including a starting position in a specific direction of the ball game field for a first play; At the start position that is close to the first direction of the ball game information of a second play that was performed immediately before the first play and that is located in a second direction, a ball game information graphic based on the start position is generated as the ball game information of the first play. Have the computer execute the process, The generating process generates the ball game information graphic by associating the result information of the first play with the ball game information graphic. An information generating program comprising:

3. The generating process changes a display pattern in the ball game information graphic in accordance with a ball travel attribute in the first play.

2. The information generating program according to claim 1, wherein:

4. The generating process further generates, as the ball game information of the first play, the ball game information graphic having a size in the first direction based on the playing time of the first play.

2. The information generating program according to claim 1, wherein:

5. An information generation device that generates information about a ball game in which an advantage in winning or losing can be gained by competing for territory, an acquisition unit that acquires play information including a starting position in a specific direction of the ball game field in a first play; a generating unit that generates, at the start position that is close to the first direction of ball game information of a second play that was performed immediately before the first play and that is located in a second direction, a ball game information graphic based on the start position as the ball game information of the first play; and The generation unit further generates, at the start position located in the second direction, the ball game information graphic having a size based on the start position and the end position in the first play as the ball game information of the first play. An information generating device characterized by:

6. An information generation device that generates information about a ball game in which an advantage in winning or losing can be gained by competing for territory, an acquisition unit that acquires play information including a starting position in a specific direction of the ball game field in a first play; a generating unit that generates, at the start position that is close to the first direction of ball game information of a second play that was performed immediately before the first play and that is located in a second direction, a ball game information graphic based on the start position as the ball game information of the first play; and The generating unit generates the ball game information graphic by associating the result information of the first play with the ball game information graphic. An information generating device characterized by:

7. An information processing system having an information generating device that generates information about a ball game in which an advantage in winning or losing can be gained by competing for territory, and a mobile information terminal, The information generating device an acquisition unit that acquires play information including a starting position in a specific direction of the ball game field in a first play; a generating unit that generates, at the start position that is close to the first direction of ball game information of a second play that was performed immediately before the first play and that is located in a second direction, a ball game information graphic based on the start position as the ball game information of the first play; a distribution unit that distributes the ball game information generated by the generation unit to the mobile information terminal; and The mobile information terminal includes: a display unit that displays the ball game information distributed from the information generating device; and The generating process further generates, at the start position located in the second direction, the ball game information graphic having a size based on the start position and end position in the first play as the ball game information of the first play. An information processing system comprising:

8. An information processing system having an information generating device that generates information about a ball game in which an advantage in winning or losing can be gained by competing for territory, and a mobile information terminal, The information generating device an acquisition unit that acquires play information including a starting position in a specific direction of the ball game field in a first play; a generating unit that generates, at the start position that is close to the first direction of ball game information of a second play that was performed immediately before the first play and that is located in a second direction, a ball game information graphic based on the start position as the ball game information of the first play; a distribution unit that distributes the ball game information generated by the generation unit to the mobile information terminal; and The mobile information terminal includes: a display unit that displays the ball game information distributed from the information generating device; and The generating unit generates the ball game information graphic by associating the result information of the first play with the ball game information graphic. An information processing system comprising:

9. An information generation method for generating information about a ball game in which an advantage in winning or losing can be gained by competing for territory, comprising: acquiring play information including a starting position in a specific direction of the ball game field for a first play; a computer executes a process of generating, as the ball game information of the first play, a ball game information graphic based on the start position at the start position that is close to the first direction of the ball game information of a second play that was performed immediately before the first play and that is located in a second direction; The generating process further generates, at the start position located in the second direction, the ball game information graphic having a size based on the start position and end position in the first play as the ball game information of the first play. An information generating method comprising:

10. An information generation method for generating information about a ball game in which an advantage in winning or losing can be gained by competing for territory, comprising: acquiring play information including a starting position in a specific direction of the ball game field for a first play; a computer executes a process of generating, as the ball game information of the first play, a ball game information graphic based on the start position at the start position that is close to the first direction of the ball game information of a second play that was performed immediately before the first play and that is located in a second direction; The generating process generates the ball game information graphic by associating the result information of the first play with the ball game information graphic. An information generating method comprising:

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