Production control system, method, and program

Abstract

To provide a technique further improving entertaining properties by providing another means for controlling a performance of a show.SOLUTION: A performance control system comprising a plurality of costume suites and a radio controller. Each of the plurality of costume suites includes a radio receiver for receiving a radio signal from the radio controller, a performance section including a light-emitting part, and a control section for controlling a performance pattern of the performance section. The radio controller specifies each radio receiver of the costume suites and transmits each performance pattern of each costume suite, to the specified radio receiver. The control section of the costume suite, in response to reception of the radio signal representing the performance pattern from the radio controller, actuates the performance section by the performance pattern.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

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

[0002] Shows are being held that express the worldview of content such as games, manga, anime, novels, dramas, etc. For example, costumed characters from games are introduced, and the costumed performers walk around at event venues, etc., to move the costumes around.

[0003] To stage these costumed shows, the costumes are sometimes fitted with light-emitting devices that light up in predefined patterns. For example, the performer wearing the costume controls the light-emitting pattern of the costume's light-emitting device by operating a control device installed in the costume. Because the performer's field of vision is often limited by wearing the costume, they often control the light-emitting pattern while listening to the background music (BGM) played in the show. [Prior art documents] [Non-patent literature]

[0004] [Non-Patent Document 1] "Pikachu Outbreak 2018 Pikachu Parade Night Dance", [online], August 11, 2018, [Retrieved July 27, 2019], Internet<URL:https: / / www.youtube.com / watch?v=1Ps4LGoiZ-M> Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] However, when actors control the performance of a costume, it is difficult to increase the variety of performances. For example, if the actor wearing the costume has limited visibility, they may be limited to switching performances while listening to background music or other audio.

[0006] Therefore, the present disclosure provides a technology that further improves the entertainment value of a show by providing another means for controlling the production of the show. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] According to one embodiment, a performance control system is provided that is composed of multiple costumed characters and a wireless control device. Each of the multiple costumed characters includes a wireless receiver that receives a wireless signal from the wireless control device, a performance unit that includes a light-emitting unit, and a control unit that controls the performance pattern of the performance unit. The wireless control device identifies the wireless receiver of each costumed character and transmits the performance pattern of each costumed character to the identified wireless receiver. In response to receiving a wireless signal indicating the performance pattern from the wireless control device, the control unit of the costumed character operates the performance unit according to the performance pattern.

[0008] According to one embodiment, a method for producing effects using a performance control system comprising a plurality of mascots and a wireless control device is provided. Each of the plurality of mascots comprises a wireless receiver for receiving a wireless signal from the wireless control device, a performance unit including a light-emitting unit, and a control unit for controlling the performance pattern of the performance unit. In the method, the wireless control device identifies the wireless receiver of each mascot and transmits the performance pattern of each mascot to the identified wireless receiver. In response to receiving a wireless signal indicating the performance pattern from the wireless control device, the control unit of the mascot operates the performance unit according to the performance pattern.

[0009] According to one embodiment, a wireless control device of a performance control system is provided, which is composed of a plurality of costumed characters and a wireless control device. Each of the plurality of costumed characters includes a wireless receiver that receives a wireless signal from the wireless control device, a performance unit including a light-emitting unit, and a control unit that controls the performance pattern of the performance unit. The wireless control device identifies the wireless receiver of each costumed character and transmits the performance pattern of each costumed character to the identified wireless receiver. In response to receiving a wireless signal indicating the performance pattern from the wireless control device, the control unit of the costumed character operates the performance unit according to the performance pattern. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] According to the present disclosure, entertainment value can be further improved. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram showing the overall configuration of a performance control system 1. FIG. [Figure 2] 1 is a diagram showing the overall configuration of a performance control system 1. FIG. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing details of the configuration for the wireless control device 20 to control the performance patterns of a plurality of costumes 10. [Figure 4] 10 is a flowchart showing a process in which the wireless control device 20 controls the performance pattern of the costume 10. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the overall configuration of a performance control system in a second embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the data structures of various data for storing the history of the costume's position and the user's position. [Figure 7] 10 is a flowchart showing the operation of each device when the performance pattern of the costumed character 10 is controlled by determining the reaction of the audience users 4. [Figure 8] 10 is a flowchart showing the operation of each device in the third embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0012] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description, the same components are denoted by the same reference numerals. The names and functions of the components are also the same. Therefore, detailed description thereof will not be repeated.

[0013] First Embodiment <1. Overall configuration of the production control system> FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the overall configuration of a performance control system 1. As shown in FIG.

[0014] As shown in Fig. 1, the production control system 1 is a system for controlling the production of a show or event (hereinafter also referred to as "event, etc.") held at an event venue 3. The production control system 1 is made up of multiple costumed characters 10 and a wireless control device 20.

[0015] Events, etc., express the worldview of content such as games, manga, anime, novels, dramas, etc. Events, etc., are held outdoors or indoors. One of the production elements of an event, etc., is the appearance of a costume 10 representing a character appearing in the content. The costume 10 has a structure that allows an actor to move movable parts such as the limbs of the costume 10 from inside the costume 10. For example, when the actor puts on the costume 10, the actor's limbs can be inserted into the limbs of the costume 10. If the costume 10 has a tail, etc., the actor may be able to manipulate these.

[0016] As shown in the figure, the production of an event or the like includes the appearance of multiple mascots 10 (four mascots 10, 10A, 10B, 10C, and 10D, are shown), the multiple mascots 10 moving on their own (i.e., walking by performers wearing the mascots 10), and moving by riding on moving bodies such as boats and vehicles. When multiple mascots 10 are to appear at an event or the like, mascots with various appearances may appear, or multiple mascots with substantially the same appearance may appear. For example, multiple characters that mimic the appearance of virtual characters that appear in the content may appear. Here, when multiple mascots with substantially the same appearance appear, different production units may be fitted to each mascot. In addition, a costume that imitates the appearance of a virtual character and a costume that imitates the appearance of a character related to that character (for example, a costume that imitates the appearance of a character that is an evolved or transformed version of that character, or a character that has a personal relationship with that character) may appear at events, etc.

[0017] The effects using the costume 10 include visual effects using light and auditory effects using sound. For example, this includes attaching light-emitting elements such as LEDs to the costume 10 and controlling the light-emitting pattern in sync with music. In the example shown, the costume 10 is equipped with effect units 16 (effect units 16A, 16B, 16C, 16D) as light-emitting elements. For example, effect units 16 may be attached to the head, arms, legs, torso, and tail of the costume 10.

[0018] The method of using light is not limited to light emission by LEDs (light emitting diodes), and light with high directivity such as laser light may be irradiated. Furthermore, as a method of using sound other than light, the costume 10 may dance or the like to background music, or a highly directional speaker may be used to provide sound that can be heard at a specific position.

[0019] The wireless control device 20 is a device for controlling the performances by the multiple costumes 10. The operator 2 operates the wireless control device 20. The operator 2 controls the performances by each of the multiple costumes 10 by specifying each of the multiple costumes 10 and a performance pattern.

[0020] Spectator users 4 are users who visit the event venue 3 to enjoy an event, etc. held at the event venue 3. An event, etc. may be held free of charge for entry and exit to the event venue 3, or may be held for a fee with restrictions on entry and exit to the event venue 3. For example, if an event, etc. is held for a fee, spectator users 4 can view the event, etc. held at the event venue 3 by obtaining a ticket for the event, etc. in advance and completing a reception process at the event venue 3. In other words, the production control system 1 may include a reception system for recording the visit of spectator users 4.

[0021] Fig. 2 is a diagram showing the overall configuration of the performance control system 1. In the example of Fig. 2, a plurality of costumes 10 are shown, including a costume 10A and a costume 10B.

[0022] The costume 10A includes a wireless receiver 12, an input device 13, an output device 14, a memory unit 15, a production unit 16, and a control unit 19.

[0023] The wireless receiver 12 performs modulation and demodulation processes to receive signals via an antenna so that the costume 10A can communicate with other wireless devices. The wireless receiver 12 may also have a configuration for transmitting wireless signals. The wireless receiver 12 is a communication module including a tuner, an RSSI (Received Signal Strength Indicator) calculation circuit, a CRC (Cyclic Redundancy Check) calculation circuit, a high-frequency circuit, etc. The wireless receiver 12 performs modulation and demodulation and frequency conversion of the wireless signals transmitted and received by the costume 10A, and provides the received signals to the control unit 19, etc.

[0024] The input device 13 is a device for receiving operations from the performer wearing the costume 10A, and is, for example, a physical button.

[0025] The output device 14 is a device for outputting information to the performer wearing the costume 10A or to the audience users 4. For example, it is composed of a display, a speaker, etc. For example, when the performance pattern of the costume 10A is changed under the control of the wireless control device 20, a sound is output from the speaker to the performer wearing the costume 10A, informing them that the performance pattern has been changed. In addition, for example, predetermined information is presented on a display to the audience users 4 around the costume 10A.

[0026] Storage unit 15 is configured with, for example, DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory), flash memory, etc., and stores data and programs used by mascot suit 10A. In one aspect, storage unit 15 stores various settings for effects to be produced by production unit 16. Storage unit 15 stores, for example, settings for the light emission patterns of the light-emitting units that make up production unit 16. Every time mascot suit 10A receives a light emission pattern specification from wireless control device 20, it updates the light emission pattern settings.

[0027] The control unit 19 reads a program stored in the storage unit 15 and executes instructions contained in the program to control the behavior of the stuffed suit 10A. The control unit 19 is, for example, a processor.

[0028] Although not shown, the costume 10A has a power supply source such as a battery, which supplies power to the control unit 19, the production unit 16, etc. For example, the performer wearing the costume 10A may perform a predetermined operation to switch the mode of power supply to the production unit 16, etc. For example, the performer may operate the costume 10A to set it to a power-saving mode before the start of a performance such as an event, and to cancel the power-saving mode once the performance such as the event begins. Furthermore, the power supply to the costume 10A may be controlled by the wireless control device 20 without the performer's operation. For example, the costume 10A may switch the power consumption mode in response to receiving a signal from the wireless control device 20.

[0029] The wireless control device 20 includes a wireless transmitter 22 , an operation console 23 , a storage unit 25 , and a control unit 29 .

[0030] The wireless transmitter 22 performs modulation / demodulation processing and the like to transmit signals via an antenna so that the wireless control device 20 can communicate with other wireless devices. The wireless transmitter 22 may have a configuration for receiving wireless signals. The wireless transmitter 22 is a communication module including a tuner, an RSSI calculation circuit, a CRC calculation circuit, a high-frequency circuit, and the like. The wireless transmitter 22 performs modulation / demodulation and frequency conversion of the wireless signals transmitted and received by the wireless control device 20, and provides the received signals to the control unit 29, etc.

[0031] The operation console 23 is a device for receiving operations from the operator 2. As will be described in detail later, the operation console 23 receives operations for controlling the performance patterns of each of the multiple costumes 10. For example, when the wireless control device 20 allocates wireless channels that can be used to transmit wireless signals to each of the multiple costumes 10, the operator 2 can specify the range of the wireless channels and thereby specify which costume 10's performance pattern is to be controlled.

[0032] The storage unit 25 stores performance patterns for performance by the performance unit 16 of the costume 10. For example, if the performance unit 16 is configured with a light-emitting unit, the storage unit 25 stores, as the performance pattern, information that specifies the timing at which the light-emitting unit is to emit light.

[0033] The control unit 29 reads the program stored in the storage unit 25 and executes the instructions included in the program to control the operation of the wireless control device 20. The control unit 29 is, for example, a processor. In response to an input operation by the operator 2 on the operation console 23, the control unit 29 generates a wireless signal for controlling the performance of each of the multiple costumes 10 and performs processing to transmit the signal to each of the costumes 10.

[0034] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing details of the configuration for the wireless control device 20 to control the performance patterns of a plurality of costumes 10. As shown in FIG.

[0035] The costumes 10 and the wireless control device 20 have a device configuration that supports a predetermined communication protocol so that they can be controlled by wireless signals. In this embodiment, 11 costumes 10 will appear (costumes 10A, 10B, . . . 10K).

[0036] The wireless control device 20 has multiple wireless transmitters 22 (wireless transmitters 22A, 22B, ... 22K) corresponding to each of the costumes 10. In this embodiment, the wireless control device 20 can use a maximum of 512 channels, of which 363 channels are used.

[0037] The costumed suit 10A includes a wireless receiver 12A and a performance unit 16A. The performance unit 16A includes multiple light-emitting units (light-emitting units 16A1, 16A2, ...). Each light-emitting unit is composed of multiple single-color light-emitting elements. For example, each light-emitting unit may be composed of an LED that emits red, an LED that emits blue, and an LED that emits green, so that any color can be expressed by mixing three colors (RGB). In the example shown, the costumed suit 10A includes 11 systems of light-emitting units (light-emitting units 16A1, A2, ... A11) as the performance unit 16A. Each light-emitting unit includes three light-emitting members, and three channels are assigned to each light-emitting member. Therefore, 33 channels (11 systems of light-emitting units, and three channels for each light-emitting unit) are assigned to the costumed suit 10A (Channel 1 to Channel 33).

[0038] Similarly, the costume suit 10B is equipped with a wireless receiver 12B and a production unit 16B. The production unit 16B is equipped with 11 systems of light-emitting units. As with the costume suit 10A, 33 channels are assigned to the costume suit 10B (channels 34 to 66). Similarly, 33 channels are assigned to the costume suit 10K (channels 331 to 363). The wireless receiver 12 receives wireless signals transmitted from the wireless control device 20 and acquires the signal of the channel assigned to the costume suit itself.

[0039] In the wireless control device 20, the console 23 and each of the multiple wireless transmitters 22 are connected by a daisy chain. The console 23 and each of the multiple wireless transmitters 22 have a connector for receiving an input signal and a connector for outputting a signal, and the connectors are connected by cables.

[0040] The wireless control device 20 stores an 8-bit code corresponding to the 512 channels in the memory unit 25. The 8-bit code stored in the memory unit 25 is updated when the operator 2 operates the console 23. The control unit 29 of the wireless control device 20 generates a transmission signal based on the 8-bit code stored in the memory unit 25. The transmission signal includes, for example, a start bit and a stop bit. The wireless control device 20 sequentially transmits wireless signals to the multiple costumes 10 based on the codes stored in the memory unit 25.

[0041] The wireless control device 20 may transmit the next signal before completing transmission of the signal on channel 512. In this embodiment, of the 512 channels, channel 363 is used to control 11 costumes 10, so the wireless control device 20 may transmit the next signal in response to completing transmission of the signal on channel 363.

[0042] Furthermore, the period of the signal transmitted from the wireless control device 20 to the costumes 10 may be changed in accordance with an increase or decrease in the number of the multiple costumes 10. For example, if the number of costumes 10 appearing at the event venue 3 is reduced from 11 to 5, the number of channels required for the performance of the costumes 10 will be 165 channels (for example, channel 1 to channel 165). The wireless control device 20 may change the period of transmitting the wireless signal to the costumes 10 in accordance with the operation of the operator 2. This allows the performance pattern of the costumes 10 to be switched in a shorter period of time when switched in accordance with the operation of the operator 2.

[0043] <Operation> FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing the process by which the wireless control device 20 controls the performance pattern of the costume 10.

[0044] In step S405, the wireless control device 20 receives, from the operator 2 via the console 23, information corresponding to each costume 10 and a designation of the performance pattern of the LEDs that make up the performance unit 16. In response to the user's designation, the wireless control device 20 updates the code for generating wireless signals to be transmitted to the wireless receivers 12 of the multiple costumes 10.

[0045] In step S409, the wireless control device 20 generates a wireless signal in accordance with the designation of the performance pattern for each costume 10. The wireless control device 20 generates a signal of 363 channels based on the code stored in the storage unit 25.

[0046] In step S413, the wireless control device 20 transmits wireless signals indicating the performance patterns of each costume 10 to the wireless receivers 12 (12A, 12B, . . . ) via each wireless transmitter 22 (22A, 22B, . . . ).

[0047] In step S455, each costume 10 receives a wireless signal on a corresponding channel by means of the wireless receiver 12.

[0048] In step S457, each costumed person 10 causes the light emitting unit (LED) of the performance unit 16 to emit light in accordance with the performance pattern indicated in the wireless signal.

[0049] For example, when the wireless control device 20 performs an effect pattern in which the light-emitting unit of a specific costume 10 flashes, it alternately generates a wireless signal that causes the light-emitting unit of the specific costume 10 to flash and a wireless signal that causes the light-emitting unit not to flash on the channel corresponding to the specific costume 10, and transmits these signals to the specific costume 10. The costume 10 may flash the light-emitting unit by causing the light-emitting unit to flash and not flash based on the wireless signal.

[0050] Furthermore, when the mascot 10 stores a light-emitting pattern for the light-emitting units for each performance pattern, the wireless control device 20 may transmit information identifying the performance pattern to the mascot 10. This allows the mascot 10 to perform a performance using the performance unit 16 based on the information identifying the performance pattern, and to control the light emission of each light-emitting unit.

[0051] <Second embodiment> In the second embodiment, (i) an example will be described in which the wireless control device 20 controls the performance pattern of the costumes 10 according to the position of each of the multiple costumes 10. This makes it possible to control the performance of an event or the like without relying on the operation of the operator 2.

[0052] (ii) An example will be described in which the performance pattern of the costumed mascot 10 is controlled according to the position of the audience user 4 watching the event, etc. By configuring as described above, it is possible to control the performance according to the reaction of the audience user at the venue of the event, etc.

[0053] (iii) Furthermore, an example will be described in which, in addition to the costumed character 10, the wireless control device 20 controls the performance of buildings around the event venue 3 and flying objects flying around the event venue 3.

[0054] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing the overall configuration of the performance control system in the second embodiment.

[0055] As shown in FIG. 5, a building 60 is arranged around the event venue 3. The building 60 is equipped with a production unit 61. The production unit 61 is composed of, for example, a light-emitting unit, a display, a speaker, etc. In addition, an aircraft 50 is flying in the sky above the event venue 3. The aircraft 50 is, for example, one or more drones. The aircraft 50 is equipped with, for example, a light-emitting unit that emits laser light, etc.

[0056] The wireless control device 20 can control the rendering by the rendering unit 61 of the building 60. That is, the rendering unit 61 of the building 60 has a configuration equivalent to the wireless receiver 12 etc. described in the first embodiment, and thereby causes the light emitting unit to emit light etc. in response to the wireless signal transmitted from the wireless control device 20.

[0057] The wireless control device 20 can control the effects produced by the production unit of the flying object 50. For example, the wireless control device 20 controls effects such as the projection of laser light from the flying object 50 onto the event venue 3.

[0058] In the second embodiment, the production control system includes a detection device that detects the positions of a plurality of costumed characters 10, the positions of audience users 4, and the reactions of audience users 4 watching an event or the like.

[0059] The positions of the costumed person 10 and the audience user 4 may be acquired from an image captured by a camera or a position information sensor.

[0060] For example, the position of the costume 10 may be determined by equipping each costume 10 with a GPS (Global Positioning System) sensor. Also, if the terminals of the spectator users 4 are equipped with position information sensors, the position of the spectator users 4 may be determined based on the output of the position information sensors of these terminals.

[0061] For example, a camera 70 is installed in a building 60. The camera 70 can detect the positions of a plurality of mascots 10 in the event venue 3. Note that the event venue 3 may be photographed by a camera (not shown) possessed by the flying object 50, and the positions of the plurality of mascots 10 may be detected by analyzing the photographed image.

[0062] Furthermore, the camera 70 may be configured to detect the positions of specific spectator users 4 included in the photographing area, or to detect the number of an unspecified number of spectator users 4, by photographing the spectator users 4. This makes it possible to detect the positions at which spectator users 4 gather in the event venue 3. For example, the positions at which spectator users 4 gather can be said to be positions at an event or the like that attract the greatest interest of spectator users 4, and therefore it is possible to identify, during or after the event, the content of the performance that will attract the greatest response from spectator users 4 in the structure of the event or the like.

[0063] The reaction of the audience users 4 watching the event or the like may be detected based on images captured by a camera or sounds.

[0064] By capturing images of the spectator users 4 using the camera 70 or the like, it is possible to detect the reactions of the spectator users 4 watching an event or the like. For example, based on images captured by the camera 70 or the like, it is possible to determine the line of sight and emotions of the spectator users 4, and identify the content of the event or the like that elicits a high reaction from the spectator users 4. Note that the reactions of the spectator users 4 may also be detected by capturing images of the area including the event venue 3 using a camera (not shown) possessed by the flying object 50. In addition to using captured images, the reactions of the spectator users 4 may also be detected by detecting the voices of the spectator users 4. For example, by installing microphones or the like around the event venue 3, it is possible to detect the cheers and the like of the spectator users 4.

[0065] <Data Structure> The data structures of various data stored in the radio control device 20 and the like according to the second embodiment will be described.

[0066] 6 is a diagram showing the data structures of various data for storing the costumed suit's position history and the user's position history. For example, the wireless control device 20 stores costumed suit position history 281 and user position history 282 in the storage unit 25. Note that the detection of the positions of the costumed suit 10 and the audience users 4 may be performed by a device other than the wireless control device 20.

[0067] The costumed suit position history 281 shows the history of movements of multiple costumed suits 10 at an event, etc. As shown in the figure, each record of the costumed suit position history 281 includes an item "costume identification information (ID)", an item "date and time", an item "position", an item "movement direction", and an item "movement speed".

[0068] The item "Costume Identification Information (ID)" is information for identifying each costume 10.

[0069] The item "Date and Time" indicates the timing when the position of the costume 10 was detected.

[0070] The item "position" indicates the position of the costume 10 in the event venue 3. For example, the position of the costume 10 may be indicated by latitude and longitude.

[0071] The item "movement direction" indicates the direction in which the mascot 10 is moving in the event venue 3. For example, the direction in which the mascot 10 is moving can be identified based on information on the chronological position of the mascot 10.

[0072] The item "movement speed" indicates the movement speed of the costume 10 when it is moving in the event venue 3. For example, based on information on the time-series position of the costume 10, the movement speed of the costume 10 when it is moving can be determined.

[0073] The user location history 282 indicates the history of the locations of spectator users 4 within the event venue 3. The user location history 282 may hold a location history for each user (for example, when acquiring location information from the terminal of the spectator user 4), or may hold a location history for multiple users located within the event venue 3 without specifying them.

[0074] Each record of the user location history 282 includes an item "date and time", an item "location", an item "density", and an item "reaction (emotion)".

[0075] The item "Date and Time" indicates the timing at which the position of the spectator user 4 was detected.

[0076] The item “position” indicates the position of the spectator user 4 .

[0077] The "density" item indicates the density of spectator users 4 at the location indicated in the "location" item. For example, when detecting the locations of spectator users 4 based on images captured by the camera 70 and the flying object 50, it is possible to estimate the density of people located within a certain range at the event venue 3. If there is an area within the event venue 3 where the density of people is relatively high, it can be estimated that spectator users 4 are highly interested in the production of the event, etc.

[0078] The item "Reaction (Emotion)" indicates the reaction of the spectator user 4 at the position indicated in the item "Position." The reaction of the spectator user 4 may be set to "Good," which indicates that the reaction of the spectator user 4 is good, "Normal," which indicates that the reaction of the spectator user 4 is normal, or "Bad," which indicates that the reaction of the spectator user 4 is poor. For example, the emotion of the spectator user 4 may be determined based on an image captured by a camera. The reaction of the spectator user 4 may also be determined based on the detection results of audio at the event venue 3 (such as the volume of cheers from the spectator users 4). That is, the wireless control device 20 may determine the emotion of the spectator user 4 based on the captured image or audio data.

[0079] <Operation> FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing the operation of each device when the performance pattern of the costumed character 10 is controlled by determining the reaction of the audience users 4.

[0080] In step S705, the wireless control device 20 acquires information on the position of the costumed person 10 and the captured image of the event venue 3.

[0081] In step S709, the wireless control device 20 determines the reactions of spectator users 4 at each position in the event venue 3 based on the captured images of the event venue 3. The wireless control device 20 specifies a performance pattern for each costumed suit 10 according to the determination result of the reaction of the spectator users 4. As a result, the wireless control device 20 generates a wireless transmission signal to be transmitted to the costumed suit 10. For example, a performance pattern according to the determination result of the reaction of the spectator users 4 may be set for a costumed suit 10 near a position where the determination result of the reaction of the spectator users 4 is a specific reaction (such as a "Good" reaction). As a result, the operator 2 can know whether the spectator users 4 are showing a specific reaction by looking at the performance pattern of the costumed suit 10 at the event venue 3. Furthermore, the performance pattern of the costumed suit 10 can be controlled according to the reaction of the spectator users 4 watching an event or the like, without the operation of the operator 2. In addition, when the density of spectator users 4 satisfies a predetermined condition (when spectator users 4 are gathered), the wireless control device 20 may identify a performance pattern for the mascot costume 10 near the position where spectator users 4 are crowded together.

[0082] In step S713, the wireless control device 20 transmits a wireless signal indicating the performance pattern of each costume to the wireless receiver of the costume by each wireless transmitter of the wireless control device 20.

[0083] As described above, the wireless control device 20 detects the movements of the audience users 4, and specifies the target costume 10 to which a performance pattern is to be transmitted based on the detection results.

[0084] (1) Performance patterns according to the position of the costume 10: In addition, the wireless control device 20 may determine the performance pattern of each mascot 10 based on the position of the costume 10. For example, when a costume 10 is located in a specific area at the event venue 3, it may be possible to perform a performance such as making the costume 10 emit light in a specific performance pattern. For example, it is assumed that the world view of the content includes scenes where predetermined effects are exerted, such as scenes where characters fight each other or scenes where a character recovers. It is assumed that an installation representing the scene where the predetermined effect is exerted is installed at the event venue 3. In this case, when the costume 10 moves to the position of the installation, the wireless control device 20 may determine the performance pattern of the costume 10 to be a specific performance pattern. Even when detecting the movements of the spectator users 4, the wireless control device 20 may determine the performance pattern of each costume 10 based on the position of the costume 10, regardless of the movements of the spectator users 4.

[0085] (2) Direction of movement of the costume 10 or a performance pattern corresponding to the costume 10 attempting to move within a predetermined range: In addition, the wireless control device 20 may determine the performance pattern for each costume 10 based on the position history of the costume 10. For example, when it is detected that the costume 10 is moving in a specific direction, it may perform a performance such as making the costume 10 emit light in a specific performance pattern. For example, when the costume 10 is moving in a specific direction such as east, west, north, or south, it may determine a different performance pattern for the costume 10 for each direction.

[0086] Furthermore, when the costumed suit 10 is moving toward or away from a specific range in the event venue 3, the wireless control device 20 can perform an effect such as making the costumed suit 10 emit light in a specific effect pattern. For example, suppose that the world view of the content includes an effect in which costumed suit 10A and costumed suit 10B, which are modeled after virtual characters, battle in a specific location. Then, suppose that an object indicating the specific location that can detect the approach of the costumed suit 10 is installed in the event venue 3. The wireless control device 20 can perform an effect in a specific effect pattern for the costumed suit 10 moving toward the object or the costumed suit 10 moving away from the object.

[0087] As described above, when the performance pattern is controlled depending on the position of the mascot 10, in response to the performance being performed using a specific performance pattern, a notification may be given to the performer in the mascot 10 by the output device 14. This allows the performer in the mascot 10 to recognize that the performance has switched to the specific performance pattern.

[0088] <Third embodiment> In the third embodiment, an operation to specify a performance pattern is accepted from the terminal of the spectator user 4. That is, the spectator user 4 can also participate in the performance of an event or the like.

[0089] FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing the operation of each device in the third embodiment.

[0090] In step S805, the wireless control device 20 accepts, from the terminal of the spectator user 4, a designation of a performance pattern for the light-emitting units (LEDs) of the costumed suit 10. The terminal of the spectator user 4 may, for example, accept the designation of a performance pattern without designating a costumed suit 10, or may accept the designation of a performance pattern for a costumed suit 10 near the terminal of the spectator user 4.

[0091] In step S809, the wireless control device 20 generates a wireless transmission signal in accordance with the designation of the performance pattern of each costume 10 received from the terminal of the spectator user 4. For example, if the designation of a costume 10 is not accepted at the terminal of the spectator user 4, the wireless control device 20 may set the performance patterns of the multiple costumes 10 to the performance patterns designated by the terminals of the costumes 10, or may set the designated performance pattern to the performance pattern of a costume 10 that is in a predetermined positional relationship with the position of the terminal of the spectator user 4 (for example, a costume 10 within a certain distance from the position of the terminal of the spectator user 4, or a costume 10 that is closest to the position of the terminal of the spectator user 4, etc.).

[0092] In step S813, the wireless control device 20 transmits a wireless signal indicating the performance pattern of each costume to the wireless receiver of the costume by each wireless transmitter of the wireless control device 20.

[0093] <Modification> A specific process may be executed on the terminal of the spectator user 4 when the position of the terminal of the spectator user 4 and the position of the costumed suit 10 satisfy a predetermined condition. For example, the position of the costumed suit 10 may be acquired from the wireless control device 20 on the terminal of the spectator user 4. Alternatively, an image may be taken with a camera on the terminal of the spectator user 4, and the costumed suit 10 may be detected in the captured image. As a result, when the position of the terminal of the spectator user 4 and the position of the costumed suit 10 are, for example, within a certain distance, a specific function may be made available to the user in an application running on the terminal of the spectator user 4. For example, if the application running on the terminal of the spectator user 4 is a game program, the user may be able to acquire game content corresponding to the character in the costumed suit 10 when the image taken with the camera on the terminal of the spectator user 4 includes the costumed suit 10.

[0094] Furthermore, a specific function such as a battle may be available in the game program. For example, suppose that a costume suit 10 is included in an image captured by the camera of the terminal of the spectator user 4, and thus the game program allows a battle with a game character corresponding to the character in the costume suit 10. In this case, multiple users who detect the costume suit 10 at the event venue 3 may be able to participate in the battle with the game character. For example, the game program may manage the total number of users who can participate in the battle based on the position of the costume suit 10 and the positions of the terminals of the spectator users 4 that detect the costume suit 10.

[0095] As described in each of the above embodiments, according to each embodiment, the operator 2 can control the performance pattern of each costume 10 at any time while observing the reactions of the audience users 4 watching the event at the event venue 3 and while observing the movements of multiple costumes 10 at the event venue 3, thereby further improving the entertainment value of the show or event.

[0096] <Additional Notes> The matters described in the above embodiments will be supplemented below.

[0097] (Appendix 1) According to one embodiment, a performance control system (1) is provided that includes a plurality of mascots (10) and a wireless control device (20). Each of the plurality of mascots includes a wireless receiver (12) that receives a wireless signal from the wireless control device, a performance unit (16) that includes a light-emitting unit, and a control unit (19) that controls the performance pattern of the performance unit. The wireless control device identifies the wireless receiver of each mascot and transmits the performance pattern of each mascot to the identified wireless receiver (22). In response to receiving a wireless signal indicating the performance pattern from the wireless control device, the control unit of the mascot operates the performance unit according to the performance pattern.

[0098] (Appendix 2) The wireless control device has a reception unit (23) that receives input operations from an operator (2) who operates the wireless control device, and by receiving operations from the operator to specify a costume and a performance pattern, transmits a signal indicating the specified performance pattern to the wireless transmitter of the specified costume (22), a performance control system described in (Appendix 1).

[0099] (Appendix 3) A performance control system as described in (Appendix 2), in which a channel capable of receiving wireless signals is set for each wireless receiver of multiple costumes (22A, 22B, ...), and the wireless control device identifies the costume to which a performance pattern is to be transmitted by the operator specifying a channel.

[0100] (Appendix 4) The wireless control device is configured to be able to control the performance pattern of the performance unit of a building (60) installed around the venue (3) where a performance using multiple costumed characters is performed, or of an aircraft (50) flying above the venue, and transmits the performance pattern of the performance unit or aircraft by accepting an operation from an operator to specify the performance unit or aircraft. (Appendix 2) or (Appendix 3) of the performance control system.

[0101] (Appendix 5) The wireless control device has a receiving unit that receives operations specifying a performance pattern from an audience user (4) watching a performance by a costumed mascot, and transmits the performance pattern specified by the audience user to the wireless receiver (S805, S809, S813), a performance control system described in any of (Appendix 1) to (Appendix 4).

[0102] (Appendix 6) A performance control system described in any one of (Appendix 1) to (Appendix 5), in which the wireless control device detects the movements of audience users watching a performance by a costumed person (282), and, based on the detection results, identifies the costumed person to which a performance pattern is to be sent (S709).

[0103] (Appendix 7) A performance control system according to any one of (Appendix 1) to (Appendix 6), wherein the wireless control device acquires the position of each costume and determines the performance pattern of each costume based on the position (281) of the costume.

[0104] (Appendix 8) A performance control system as described in (Appendix 7), in which the wireless control device determines the performance pattern of each costume based on the position of each costume, regardless of the actions of audience users around the costume.

[0105] (Appendix 9) A performance control system described in any one of (Appendix 1) to (Appendix 8), in which the wireless control device identifies a costume that meets specified conditions based on the costume's position history (281) and transmits a performance pattern to the identified costume.

[0106] (Appendix 10) A performance control system described in any one of (Appendix 1) to (Appendix) 9, in which the wireless control device detects audience users around the costume (282) and transmits a specific performance pattern to the costume (S709) regardless of operation by the operator of the wireless control device.

[0107] (Appendix 11) The performance control system described in (Appendix 10) in which the wireless control device detects the audience users by detecting the voices of the audience users around the costumed person, or based on at least one of photographed images (70) of the venue where the performance using the costumed person is being performed.

[0108] (Appendix 12) The wireless control device determines the emotions of the audience user based on at least one of the audio and the captured image (282), and transmits a performance pattern to the wireless receiver of the costume depending on the determination result (S709), (Appendix 11) of the performance control system.

[0109] (Appendix 13) A performance control system as described in (Appendix 8), in which the wireless control device transmits a performance pattern to the costumes that satisfy a predetermined condition (282) based on the position of each costume.

[0110] (Appendix 14) A performance control system described in any of (Appendix 1) to (Appendix 13), wherein the control unit of the costumed person is equipped with a notification unit (14) that notifies the costumed person when the performance pattern of the performance unit is changed in accordance with control by the wireless control device.

[0111] (Appendix 15) A performance control system as described in (Appendix 5), which enables a specific process to be executed on a customer user's terminal when the position of the spectator user's terminal and the position of the costumed character meet predetermined conditions. [Explanation of symbols]

[0112] 1 Production control system, 2 Operator, 3 Event venue, 4 Audience user, 10 Costume, 12 Wireless receiver, 16 Production department, 20 Wireless control device, 22 Wireless transmitter.

Claims

1. A game system comprising one or more costumed characters and a terminal used by an audience user who watches a performance by the costumed characters, The terminal Run a specific game, When the position of the terminal and the position of the mascot are within a certain distance, if the mascot is detected because it is included in an image captured by a photographing means possessed by the terminal, the game system executes processing to make a character corresponding to the mascot appear in the game.

2. A method for executing a game system that is configured with one or more costumed characters and a terminal used by an audience user who watches a performance by the costumed characters, The terminal Run a specific game, When the position of the terminal and the position of the mascot are within a certain distance, if the mascot is detected because it is included in an image captured by a photographing means possessed by the terminal, a process is executed in the game in which a character corresponding to the mascot appears.

3. An information processing device that functions as a terminal in a game system that is configured by one or more costumed characters and a terminal used by an audience user who watches a performance by the costumed characters, Photography means, An information processing device comprising: a processing means for causing a character corresponding to the mascot to appear in the game when a predetermined game is executed and the position of the terminal and the position of the mascot are within a certain distance, and the mascot is detected because the mascot is included in an image captured by the photographing means.

4. A program executed on a terminal in a game system configured with one or more costumed characters and a terminal used by an audience user who watches a performance by the costumed characters, The program is installed on the terminal. executing a predetermined game; When the position of the terminal and the position of the mascot are within a certain distance, and the mascot is detected because the mascot is included in an image captured by a photographing means possessed by the terminal, the program executes a step of making a character corresponding to the mascot appear in the game.

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