Information processing device, information processing method, and program

Abstract

To provide an information processing apparatus, an information processing method, and a program which allow for conditional duplication of an object existing in a virtual space.SOLUTION: A function is provided which is to be executed by a processor of the information processing apparatus and, if one or more restrictive objects on which restrictions about duplication are imposed are included in a part of a first object in a virtual space, represents a second object generated on the basis of a first object, in accordance with the restrictions.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 8

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an information processing device, an information processing method, and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] Today, on the Internet, there are many objects that are the alter egos of users (hereinafter referred to as "user objects"). Project) to create a virtual space (hereinafter referred to as "the Project") where social activities similar to those in the real world can be carried out. A virtual space called "Virtual Space" has been constructed. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Patent Publication No. 2021-152815 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In the virtual space, just like in the real world, you can create your own user objects, such as fashionable clothes and belongings. There are things I would like to reflect in the project. However, the menu screen used to create the user's object does not allow the user to You may not be able to select the clothes or belongings of other users who have visited the game. It is a burden for users to open the menu and search for similar clothes or belongings.

[0005] To reduce such inconvenience and burden, object duplication is effective. Allowing free copying could undermine social activity in virtual worlds. For this reason, there is a demand for a virtual space that can protect objects while providing convenience to users.

[0006] The present invention makes it possible to replicate objects existing in a virtual space according to their constraints. The purpose is to: [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] An information processing device according to an aspect of the present invention includes a processor, the processor When a first object containing multiple subobjects is specified as the object to be duplicated, A plurality of constraints in which information about duplication constraints is attached to some of the plurality of partial objects. The object includes a constraint on the replication corresponding to the constraint object. When the information content is set to allow duplication with replacement of an alternative object obtaining information about the constraints of the copies of the constraint object; The second object is created by replacing each of the first and second objects with a substitute object. and placing the generated image in the virtual space. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to one aspect of the present invention, an object existing in a virtual space is replicated according to its constraints. It can be made possible. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a configuration of an information processing system according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of the hardware configuration of a virtual space management server and a user terminal that constitute an information processing system. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of the functional configuration of a virtual space management server. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a table for managing object data. [Figure 5]FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of data related to structure. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of data related to attributes. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of the functional configuration of a user terminal. [Figure 8] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a processing operation executed by a processor of a virtual space management server. [Figure 9] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a virtual space. [Figure 10] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating duplication when no duplication restrictions are imposed on partial objects that make up a first object. (A) shows a state in which a hat object is selected as the object to be duplicated, and (B) shows a state in which the hat object created by duplication is pasted onto the head of a user's object, which is the destination of duplication. [Figure 11] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating another example of duplication when no restrictions on duplication are imposed on partial objects that make up a first object, where (A) shows a state in which a duplicate of the first object is selected, and (B) shows a state in which a second object, which is a duplicate of the first object, has been pasted. [Figure 12] 1A and 1B are diagrams illustrating an example of duplication when a restriction is placed on duplication of a logo object that is part of a hat object, and the user issuing the instruction to duplicate the logo object does not have the authority to duplicate the logo object. (A) shows the hat object as the first object, and (B) shows the hat object as the second object. [Figure 13] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating an example of duplication when a restriction is placed on duplication of a logo object that is part of a hat object, but the user has the authority to duplicate it. (A) shows the hat object as the first object, and (B) shows the hat object as the second object. [Figure 14]10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating another example of duplication when a restriction on duplication is imposed on a logo object that is part of a hat object, and the user instructing duplication does not have the authority to make the duplication. (A) shows the hat object as the first object, and (B) and (C) show the hat object as the second object. [Figure 15] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating another example of duplication when a restriction on duplication is imposed on a main object that is a part of a hat object, and the user who instructs duplication does not have the authority to make duplication. (A) shows the hat object as the first object, and (B) and (C) show the hat object as the second object. [Figure 16] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating another example of duplication when a restriction on duplication is imposed on a logo object that is part of a hat object, and the user instructing duplication does not have the authority to make the duplication. (A) shows the hat object as the first object, and (B) and (C) show the hat object as the second object. [Figure 17] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating another example of duplication when a restriction on duplication is imposed on the main body, which is a part of a hat object, and the user who issues the instruction to duplicate does not have the authority to duplicate. (A) shows the hat object as the first object, and (B) and (C) show the hat object as the second object. [Figure 18] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating another example of duplication in which restrictions on duplication are imposed on the time-varying change in the display color of a logo, which is part of a hat object, and the user issuing the duplication instruction does not have the authority to make the duplication. (A) shows the hat object as the first object, and (B) shows the hat object as the second object. [Figure 19] 10A to 10D are diagrams illustrating another example of duplication when two of the same type of duplication constraints are imposed on one object, where (A) shows a hat object as the first object, and (B) to (D) show hat objects as the second object. [Figure 20]1A and 1B are diagrams illustrating an example of duplication when two objects containing duplication constraints are specified as targets for bulk duplication. (A) shows a hat object as the first object, and (B) shows a hat object as the second object. [Figure 21] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating another example of duplication when two objects containing duplication constraints are specified as targets for collective duplication, where (A) shows a hat object as the first object, and (B) shows a hat object as the second object. [Figure 22] This is a diagram illustrating an example of object replication according to the number of replication generations. (A) is an object when the number of replication generations is "0," (B) is an object when the number of replication generations is "1," (C) is an object when the number of replication generations is "2," (D) is an object when the number of replication generations is "3," and (E) is an object when the number of replication generations is "4" or more. [Figure 23] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating examples of object duplication according to the number of duplications, where (A) is an object when the number of duplications is "0," (B) is an object when the number of duplications is "1," (C) is an object when the number of duplications is "2," (D) is an object when the number of duplications is "3," and (E) is an object when the number of duplications is "4." [Figure 24] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a duplication in which the number of duplications is managed in units of duplication sources. [Figure 25] This figure illustrates the duplication of an object when the original object exists in a location intended for free exchange of objects. (A) shows the case where a constrained object exists in free space, and (B) shows the duplication of an object in free space. [Figure 26] 10A and 10B illustrate another example of object duplication when the original object exists in a location intended for free exchange of objects. (A) shows a case where a constrained object exists in free space, and (B) shows a user's object duplicated in free space. [Figure 27] 10A and 10B illustrate another example of object duplication when the original object exists in a location intended for free exchange of objects. (A) shows a case where a constrained object exists in free space, and (B) shows a user's object duplicated in free space. [Figure 28] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating an example of a notification to a user who has instructed a copy with restrictions, where (A) shows an example of a notification to a user who instructs a copy, and (B) shows an example of the content of the notification. [Figure 29] 1A and 1B are diagrams illustrating an example of a notification to a user with restrictions on copying, in which (A) shows an example of a notification to a user with restrictions, and (B) shows an example of the content of the notification. [Figure 30] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a user interface that allows adding constraints regarding duplication attached to an object. [Figure 31] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating an example of a case where a copy instruction and the execution of the copy are different. (A) shows an example of a display of a gift option, (B) shows an example of the execution of the copy as a gift, and (C) shows an example of adjusting the position of the copied bag. [Figure 32] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a configuration of an information processing system according to a second embodiment. [Figure 33] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating an example in which the display of a duplicated object differs depending on the user who instructs duplication. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. The embodiments described below are examples of the present invention, and the technical scope of the present invention is limited to the embodiments described below. The present invention is not limited to the scope of the embodiments. For example, various modifications or improvements to the embodiments may be made. It is clear from the description of the claims that the technical scope of the present invention includes those .

[0011] <Terminology> First, the terms used in the embodiments will be explained. "Virtual space" refers to a virtual world or space constructed using computer technology. The virtual space explained in terms of form is only when it is constructed as a VR (Virtual Reality) space. Instead, we are looking at AR (Augmented Reality) space, which is an extension of the real world, and M, which is a fusion of real world and AR. It can also include R (=Mixed Reality) space. Virtual space can reflect real-world location information. In addition, the virtual space can be provided with spatial coordinate information defined by a computer. The positional relationships between objects existing in the virtual space may be grasped.

[0012] The virtual space described in the embodiment is mainly provided through network communication. More specifically, the virtual space is created by users operating terminals connected to a network. This refers to spaces and services that can be used by users. However, this does not mean that virtual spaces provided on devices that operate offline are excluded. For example, virtual data provided to users through applications running on offline devices. Imaginary space is also one aspect of the present invention.

[0013] Examples of virtual spaces include virtual spaces designed for games, and spaces that faithfully reproduce the real world. There are virtual spaces that are similar to the real world, and virtual spaces where social activities can be carried out in the same way as in the real world. The realistically recreated virtual space includes, for example, townscapes, commercial facilities, showrooms, offices, event venues, etc. In addition, social activities similar to those in the real world include conversations, meetings, and other forms of communication. There is communication. Virtual space can be constructed as a two-dimensional space or a three-dimensional space. There are cases like this.

[0014] An "object" is an object that exists in the virtual space. This includes cases where the object is defined as a collection of objects. However, there are no natural objects in the virtual space. The user's avatar (i.e., the user's object), as well as dogs, cats, and other animals are examples of objects. In addition, when changing a user's object to another object, the character image It is called an image or avatar. Objects include both objects that resemble personal property and objects that resemble real property. For example, the user's object may have clothes, hats, shoes, bags, and accessories. Real estate includes land and buildings that make up the townscape that makes up the virtual section. Projects also include game media. Game media is electronic data that is easily used in games, such as cards, items, etc. , including game currency, tickets, characters, avatars, or any other media.

[0015] Some of the objects are subject to manipulation by the user U in the virtual space. Examples of operations include purchase, use, copy, and transfer. A purchase can be made by paying for fungible tokens, for example, to allow an object to belong to another user. This refers to the state in which something has been transferred or a right of use has been established. Usage is a state in which operations on objects within a virtual space are permitted under predetermined conditions. This refers to...

[0016] "Duplicate" means to create a new object based on the original object, separate from the original object. This refers to generating an object in a virtual space. For example, the original object is A new object is generated in the same existing virtual space. There are two types of duplication: a strict duplication in which an identical object is newly generated, and a duplication in which an object contains different parts. There is also a broader definition of duplication, where a new object is generated. Specific examples of duplication will be discussed later. "Movement" refers to changing the position of an object in virtual space. If so, no new object is created. In the embodiment, an object may be defined as a two-dimensional object or a three-dimensional object. It may be defined as a body.

[0017] "Object data" consists of, for example, information about the structure and information about the attributes. can be. "Structural information" includes, for example, the type of object, the shape of the surface, the surface pattern, color, transmittance, This includes reflectivity and material. However, these are just examples. Information about the structure is In the embodiment, the object does not need to include all the information about the structure. The type of object, its surface shape, surface pattern, design, and color are used. It is also possible to include size, weight and other information as a

[0018] "Attribute information" includes, for example, the date and time when the attribute was created, the date and time when the object was created in the virtual space, The date and time of placement, information about the user who created the object, and the placement of the object in the virtual space Information about the user who created the object, information about the user who manages the object in the virtual space, and restrictions on duplication Contains information about the number of copies, the number of generations of replication. The attribute information may be integrated with the object data or may be stored in the virtual space. It may also be managed above.

[0019] Some of the information about the structure of the object is stored in the form of a non-fungible token (NFT). It is linked to a blockchain token and managed on a distributed ledger on the blockchain. "Non-fungible token" means a unique, non-fungible digital asset recorded on a blockchain. It refers to the unit of data. In addition, fungible tokens (FT: Fungible Token) have the following characteristics: Fungible tokens are crypto assets that do not have uniqueness as assets and are tokens with the same number. are treated as having the same value. Fungible tokens are used for transactions within the virtual space. .

[0020] In the following, the object specified in the virtual space as the target for duplication is called the “first object.” It's called "To". The first object can be specified by tapping any part of the object. Alternatively, there is a click method or an operation to surround the entire object. The first object contains the object with the replication constraint and the object with the replication constraint. There are objects that do not have constraints attached. A first object that has no restrictions on duplication may be freely duplicated.

[0021] The "replication constraint" here refers to the constraints on the first object that is specified as the target of replication. A specific partial object among multiple objects (hereinafter also referred to as "partial objects") This section specifies the terms and conditions for copying the object. The duplication of the first object described in the embodiment is performed based on the constraints on this duplication. It will be carried out. In the following, we will refer to the object generated based on the first object as the "second object." "

[0022] The second object is an example of a replica of the first object. The second object is a partial object that is identical to the first object, which is the source of the duplication, and a duplicate object. It is made up of sub-objects that are different from the first object that produced it. The second object is an object whose appearance is identical to the first object. In the embodiment described below, the second object is an object similar in shape to the first object. For example, if the first object is clothing, the size difference caused by the duplication The clothing is treated as an example of a second object.

[0023] The latter second object has at least some of the structural information identical to the first object. In other words, the second object contains part of the information about the structure. is a different object from the first object that is the source of the duplication. The second object is generated according to the replication constraints imposed on the first object. will be done. Here, "constraint" refers to information that identifies a constrained subobject, the content of the constraint, and the constraint Includes execution conditions, etc.

[0024] The "information for identifying a partial object" may include, for example, the information of a user U who has authority regarding duplication. Pixel or voxel information that identifies a portion of the first object specified by There is an identifier that identifies the partial object as a product. "Content of restrictions" may include, for example, prohibition of copying, prohibition of display, change to other shapes, or change to other colors. The time information can be changed, changed to another pattern, or deleted.

[0025] Prohibition of duplication means that the data of a specified partial object is prohibited from being inherited. For example, if the partial object is a "logo", the second object contains the logo data. For example, a logo object is an object defined by the color and pattern of the logo's background. object.

[0026] Prohibiting display allows the data of a specified partial object to be inherited, but prohibits the virtual The representation in space means that it can be replaced by another partial object. A sub-object is hidden by another sub-object. If the object is a "logo", the second object will have the logo as a subobject. The "go" is displayed hidden by the underlying color and pattern.

[0027] When changing to another shape, the shape of the duplicated partial object will be the same as the shape of the first object. means different things. Changing to another color means that the color of the duplicated partial object is different from the color of the first object. This means that... When changing to another pattern, the pattern of the duplicated partial object will be the same as the pattern of the first object. means different things. Deletion of time information means deletion of time information related to shape, color, pattern, etc. By deleting, characteristic changes over time such as shape, color, and pattern will no longer be replicated.

[0028] The "conditions for executing constraints" include, for example, whether or not there is authority regarding copying. For example, the user who instructed the duplication of the first object may be informed of the first object or a specific part thereof. If you have replication privileges for an object, the enforcement of replication constraints is disabled. will be done. The user who instructed the duplication of the first object is notified of the first object or a specific partial object. If you do not have permission to copy the object, additional conditions must be met for the constraint to be enforced. This may happen.

[0029] Additional conditions include, for example, notification or response to the user who instructed the first object to be replicated. Receive notifications and responses to users who have set constraints, and find subobjects that satisfy the constraints. The selection criteria for the object, the location where the first object is linked, and the content of the constraints according to the user Switching between different constraints depending on the location of the second object and the user ,Specific conditions when one first object contains multiple constraints, multiple first objects The specific conditions when an object is selected for replication, the number of generations of replication, and the number of replications The content of the constraints can be switched. Specific examples of these will be described later.

[0030] In the following, we refer to the subobjects of the second object that are not subject to constraints as "non-constrained objects." A partial object that is the subject of a constraint is called a "constraint object." The first object may consist of only non-constrained objects, or may consist of only non-constrained objects. It may consist of a constraint object and a constraint object.

[0031] Which parts of the first object are non-constrained objects and which parts are constrained objects? The decision as to whether to use the first object depends on the user who has the authority to use or copy the first object. The decision is made by the A second object generated from a first object consisting of only non-constrained objects. The object consists of only non-constrained objects. On the other hand, generated from the first object consisting of non-constrained objects and constrained objects The second object to be created consists of the non-constrained object and the alternative object.

[0032] The "substitute object" replaces the constraint object when duplicating the first object. The object is a constraint object, and at least some of the information about its structure is It's different. Specifically, the substitute object may be a structure information such as the shape of the surface, At least one of the pattern and color is different from the constraint object. However, the difference between alternative objects and constraint objects is visually identifiable. Therefore, objects with different data for only one pixel or one voxel Objects with different internal shapes are also excluded from the substitute objects. If it cannot be observed from the outside, it is excluded from the substitute object.

[0033] In addition, objects similar to the constraint object are excluded from the alternative object. For example, an object whose area or dimensions have changed by only about 10% from the constraint object, Exclude from substitute objects. However, the area or dimensions may be reduced by a factor of 10 or doubled. By doing so, the user U observing the object is presented with a different object from the constraint object. When combined with a non-constrained object, it creates the impression of being different from the first object. If it gives a different impression, it may be used as a substitute object.

[0034] The same applies to cases where the color or pattern is different. Generally, changes in color or pattern are made to the user U. It is likely to give a different impression. However, changing to similar colors or slight changes in saturation or brightness do not change the impression of the user U. There is also the possibility that slight changes in the patterns that define the patterns or Even a slight change in density may not change the impression of the user U. Therefore, in the embodiment described later, the object to which these changes are applied is a constraint object. Exclude the object from the alternative object. Instead of the constraint object, the background or surrounding color or pattern of the constraint object is used. From a different perspective, an object that can be used as a substitute object is also an example of a substitute object.

[0035] The information about the constraints may include, for example, the constraints of the plurality of partial objects that make up the first object. The information to identify the partial object to be replaced with the substitute object, the type of constraint, Content, handling of original data, notification to users associated with constraints, user instructing replication There are restrictions on the information that supports the operation. Note that if attribute information is managed separately from object data, constraints It contains information to access information about

[0036] Furthermore, the number of constraint objects included in the first object is not limited to one, but may be multiple. By the way, the second object also has the same duplication restrictions as the first object. Therefore, the second object created from the first object is inherited as the original ( (i.e., the first object), the substitute object that constitutes the second object becomes the new constraint object. However, the replication constraints are not inherited from the first object to the second object. It is also possible to do so.

[0037] <First Embodiment> <System> FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of an information processing system 1A according to the first embodiment. The information processing system 1A shown in FIG. 1 includes a virtual space management server 10 and a plurality of user terminals 2 0 and a network N that connects them so that they can communicate with each other. Here, the network N is, for example, the Internet or LAN (=Local Area Network). , and uses mobile communication systems such as 4G and 5G. Note that network N is a wired network. The network may be a network or a wireless network.

[0038] The virtual space management server 10 stores information about objects that exist in the virtual space and This is a server that manages information about users U who join. The object information includes, for example, information about the object's position in the virtual space. In addition, the information about the structure and attributes mentioned above is included. The information about the user U includes, for example, an account that identifies the user U who participates in the virtual space. In addition, it also includes the permissions for copying and the history of copying operations.

[0039] For example, the user's account information may include information such as a number that identifies the user's account, Passwords, services available in virtual space (online shopping, games, etc.) Permission information, information on the device the user uses to access the virtual space, Your email address, phone number, credit card information, and cryptocurrency wallet address information, SNS (Social Networking Service) account information, linked SN S information, linked chat app, ID (=Identifier) ​​information for identity verification (age information such as personal information (nationality, address, gender, date of birth, etc.), biometric information (fingerprints, voiceprints, face, etc.) The user can access the virtual space services provided by the server using this account. You can enter information from your device to access and operate the virtual space. The application of restrictions on the object's constraints may be determined by the above.

[0040] The virtual space management server 10 is composed of one or more computers. The server 10 is an example of an information processing device. The user terminal 20 is a terminal operated by a user U who participates in the virtual space. 0 includes, for example, head-mounted devices (so-called headsets), glasses-type devices (such as Smart glasses, smartphones, tablet devices, laptops and desktops The user terminal 20 is a PC or game terminal that communicates with the network N. It has a communication function.

[0041] <Device hardware configuration> FIG. 2 shows the virtual space management server 10 and the user terminal 20 that constitute the information processing system 1A. FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration. <Hardware configuration of virtual space management server> The virtual space management server 10 shown in FIG. 2 includes a processor 101 that controls the overall operation of the terminal. ROM (Read Only Memory) that stores BIOS (Basic Input Output System) and other information. y) 102 and RAM (= Random Access Memory) used as a work area for the processor 101. ss Memory 103, an auxiliary storage device 104, and a communication interface 105. . The processor 101 and each device are connected via a bus or other signal lines.

[0042] The processor 101 is a device that realizes various functions by executing programs. For example, CPU (Central Processing Unit), MPU (Micro Processing Unit), Consists of a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) and a DSP (Digital Signal Processor) will be done. The auxiliary storage device 104 is, for example, a hard disk device or a semiconductor storage. The storage device 104 stores programs as well as data for managing the virtual space. RAM is used as a general term for the OS (= Operating System) and application programs. do. The communication interface 105 is a device that enables communication with an external terminal such as the user terminal 20. It's a vice.

[0043] <Hardware configuration of user terminal> The user terminal 20 shown in FIG. 2 includes a processor 201 that controls the overall operation of the terminal, a BIO ROM 202 in which S etc. are stored, and R used as a work area for processor 201 An AM 203, an auxiliary storage device 204, an input reception device 205, a display 206, It has a microphone 207 , a speaker 208 , and a communication interface 209 . The processor 201 and each device are connected via a bus or other signal lines. In addition, the user's terminal 20 has a function to acquire location information and a function to transmit location information. For example, GPS (Global Positioning System) and communication information may be used. You may.

[0044] The processor 201 is also a device that realizes various functions through the execution of programs. For example, it consists of a CPU, MPU, GPU, and DSP. It may be made. The auxiliary storage device 204 is, for example, a hard disk device or semiconductor storage. The storage device 204 stores not only the program but also data of the virtual space that the user U sees. The term "program" is used as a general term for the OS and application programs.

[0045] The input reception device 205 may be, for example, a mouse, a cross key, a joystick, a keyboard, a static It consists of a capacitive touch sensor and a device that accepts input from the camera. For example, if the user terminal 20 is a notebook or desktop terminal, the input reception device 205 accepts mouse operations. For example, if the user terminal 20 is a smartphone or a tablet terminal, the input reception device 2 05 accepts operations on the capacitive touch sensor.

[0046] For example, if the user terminal is a game terminal, the cross key, joystick, physical buttons, The input device 205 receives operations using a capacitive touch sensor. For example, if the user terminal 20 is a head-mounted terminal or a glasses-type terminal, the input receiving device The device 205 processes images captured by a camera that captures an image of the user U and uses a sensor (LiDAR ( (Light Detection and Ranging, gyro sensor, acceleration sensor, infrared reflection, etc.) Through the values ​​detected, the user U's gestures, head and neck movements, gaze, blinks, pupils The state of the object is accepted as an operation. Of course, it is not limited to the input receiving device described above, but it is also possible to grasp the user's intention, state, emotions, etc. It may be replaced with a user interface technology that can be reflected in the operation of the device. For example, a user interface that utilizes biometric information may be used. , blood flow, pulse wave, electromyography, electroencephalogram, etc., as at least some examples.

[0047] The display 206 may be, for example, a liquid crystal display or an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) display. ), an airborne display is used. When the user terminal 20 is a head-mounted terminal or a glasses-type terminal, for example, The light output from the light guide member 206 is guided to the front of the eyeball of the user U, and then An image is formed on the retina of the user U by a diffraction grating or a half mirror.

[0048] The microphone 207 digitizes sounds around the user U that exist in the real space, and the voice of the user U. It is a device that converts digital data into The speaker 208 is a device that reproduces the voice of another user U who is having a conversation in the virtual space. do. The communication interface 209 enables communication with external terminals such as the virtual space management server 10. It is a device that

[0049] <Device functional configuration> FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the virtual space management server 10. As shown in FIG.

[0050] <Functional configuration of virtual space management server> The virtual space management server 10 shown in FIG. 3 has a plurality of functional units. Specifically, the virtual space management server 10 includes a storage unit 111, a transmission / reception unit 112, a generation unit 113, and a 3, a reception unit 114, a constraint processing unit 115, and a display control unit 116. These functional units are: This is realized by the cooperation of the hardware of the virtual space management server 10 and the program. In addition, when the virtual space management server 10 is configured by a plurality of devices, The above functional parts are realized through the cooperation of multiple terminals.

[0051] The storage unit 111 includes the processor 101 (see FIG. 2) and the auxiliary storage device 104 (see FIG. 2). This is achieved by: The storage unit 111 stores, for example, data of objects existing in the virtual space, data of people participating in the virtual space, Data to identify the user U who is using the virtual space, and a history of the user U's activities performed in the virtual space It is stored in the storage device 104.

[0052] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of a table for managing object data. The table contains information about the object, such as its ID, coordinates that give its location in virtual space, and structure. ID, ID of information about attributes is recorded. For example, the object ID "0001" has coordinates (x1, y1, z1) and structure "ST1" is the ID of the information about the attribute, and "AT1" is the ID of the information about the attribute. It has been done. In Fig. 4, for convenience of drawing, information about the structure is not assigned to the object ID. The ID of the attribute information is linked to the ID of the structure information shown in Figure 5 and the ID of the attribute information. Information on the attributes shown in may be linked.

[0053] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of data of structural information. ID, object type, shape, pattern, color, texture, constraint objects, etc. are recorded. There are. The ID of the structural information here is part of the items that make up the table shown in Figure 4. . In FIG. 5, examples of "type" include hat, jacket, bag, coat, and watch.

[0054] The types shown in Figure 5 are assumed to be items worn by the user's object. In this case, the types of all objects that exist in the virtual space are described. For example, when creating a second object from a first object, the first object and the second object It is used to maintain the identity of the object as an object.

[0055] "Shape," "pattern," and "color" include data that represent the shape, pattern, and color of an object, for example. However, one data file is recorded for each object. A file may be recorded, in which case the pixels and voxels that define the shape of the object are stored. Pattern and color data is linked to the rule and recorded. For example, data files that represent the appearance and feel of the surface of an object are recorded in "Material Feel." For example, textures can be described as "sparkling," "shiny," "silky," or "rough." There is. In addition, the ID of the structural information also links to information on the dimensions and weight of the entire object. can be done. In the case of Figure 5, the constraint object of the object in ST1 is "Constraint Object A". The constraint object for ST2 is recorded as "Constraint Object B". It has been done.

[0056] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of data related to attributes. ID, user of the object, presence or absence of replication constraints, content of replication constraints, replication The history of the number of times an object has been replicated, the number of generations of replication, etc. are recorded. Any number of constraints may be recorded. For example, two constraints may be recorded for one object. It may be done. The ID of the attribute information here is part of the items that make up the table shown in Figure 4. . In FIG. 6, user A, user B, etc. are listed as examples of "users."

[0057] The users here include businesses that operate virtual spaces, businesses that operate stores within virtual spaces, etc. , the creator of the object, the user with the rights to use it, the current owner, and others. In Figure 6, there is only one item related to the user, but the information corresponding to the example user is There may be multiple items to be included. Furthermore, information on multiple users may be included in multiple items related to users. For example, Information about the creator of an object and the user who has the right to use the object may be managed in one item.

[0058] In the case of Figure 6, "Restrictions on duplication" is recorded as "Yes" or "No." do. The "Content of Restrictions on Replication" describes the content of the restrictions. Replication of the first object If this is specified, a second object will be generated according to the contents of this section. This becomes the case. The content of the constraint may be freely described by the user who assigns the constraint, but the processor 1 From the viewpoint of processing by O1 (see Figure 2), the content of the constraints is pre-defined. desirable.

[0059] In the case of Figure 6, the content of the constraint is "For constraint object A, substitute object "Allow duplication by constraint object B", "Clear constraint object B", "Duplicate constraint object C is 1st generation" "The time information (shape, color, etc.) of constraint object D cannot be copied" do. The first content is that constraint object A is not allowed to be duplicated, but it is changed to an alternative object. This means that copying of the first object is allowed.

[0060] The second content is that the deletion of constraint object B is a condition for the duplication of the first object. In this case, the area where object B was located has the underlying pattern and shape. is replaced by a shaped object. The third content means that the constraint object C is not allowed to be replicated beyond one generation. This means that two generations of copies of constraint object C are not allowed. The second generation copy of object C is created by copying the first object specified as the copy source. In this case, the second generation of constraint object C cannot be replicated. The same processing as that based on the first content and the second content is performed.

[0061] By the way, if the second object is a replica of the first generation, the constraint object The creation of a second object containing C itself is permitted. The creation of a second identical object is permitted. In the case of the third content, if it is a copy of the first generation, the second object to be generated will be There is no limit to the number. Therefore, there can be multiple second objects that are copies of the first generation. and are acceptable.

[0062] The fourth content is that when constraint object D contains time information, it is used as a still image. This means that only copying is permitted. The time information is included if the shape, color, etc. of the constraint object D changes over time. For example, the first object, a court, is blowing in the wind. I would like to prohibit the reproduction of the rustling coat if it contributes to the differentiation from other objects. The fourth point anticipates such requests.

[0063] The way a court blows in the wind is an example of a shape that changes over time. Another example of how the shape changes over time is the gradual expansion of the shape to a certain size. Examples include a shape gradually shrinking to a certain size, and multiple shapes of different sizes appearing alternately. There is an example shown. Examples of color changes over time include changing from one color to another, or changing from one color to another. Examples of changing into multiple colors, examples of changing color combinations, examples of changing the position of multiple colors There are examples of this.

[0064] Returning to the explanation of Figure 3. The transmitter / receiver 112 includes the processor 101 (see FIG. 2), the auxiliary storage device 104 (see FIG. 2), This is realized by the cooperation of the communication interface 105 (see FIG. 2) and the program. The transmitting / receiving unit 112 transmits and receives data to and from the user terminal 20, for example.

[0065] The data transmitted to the user terminal 20 includes, for example, the information of the user U who operates the user terminal 20. The image of the virtual space seen from the object and the object of the user U who operates the user terminal 20 A bird's-eye view of the virtual space in which the object is located, and the object designated for duplication. There is a query about the case where there are restrictions on copying. A real-world user U wants to You can move around in a virtual space while looking at the statue.

[0066] The data received from the user terminal 20 includes, for example, the voice of the user U, the input of the user U, Character string, user U's instruction to the object, duplication of the object in the virtual space There are instructions. The voice of user U and the character strings entered by user U are used in communication with other users U in the virtual space. Used for communication. The user U's instructions to the object are to move or move the object within the virtual area. Used to indicate when To instruct a copy of an object in virtual space, you must specify the first object, the destination object, and the There are responses to queries based on the specification of replication constraints.

[0067] The generation unit 113 is a processor 101 (see FIG. 2) and an auxiliary storage device 104 (see FIG. 2). This is achieved by: The generating unit 113 generates data stored in the auxiliary storage device 104 and data transmitted by the transmitting / receiving unit 112. Generates the data to be transmitted. The data stored in the auxiliary storage device 104 includes, for example, objects that exist in a virtual space. information, object movement and duplication history, object operation history of user U, It contains the history of operations on the object and information on users participating in the virtual space.

[0068] Object information includes information about the structure and information about the attributes. The information includes information about copying restrictions. It is also permitted to add or modify information about copy restrictions. Additions and modifications are only permitted to users U who have the authority to, for example, copy the object. do. Replication constraint information can be added or modified, for example, when registering an object or when This is executed when replicating or when inquiring whether or not replication is possible.

[0069] However, any user U with replication privileges can add or modify constraints at any time. It is possible. Adding or modifying a constraint may only affect the object to which the constraint is added or modified. Constraint additions and modifications can be reflected in subsequent generations, and constraints can also be added to previous generations. or modifications may be reflected.

[0070] The reception unit 114 is connected to the processor 101 (see FIG. 2) and the auxiliary storage device 104 (see FIG. 2). This is achieved by: The reception unit 114 receives, for example, instructions from a user U to an object existing in a virtual space, An instruction to replicate a first object existing in a virtual space is received from a user terminal (20).

[0071] The constraint processing unit 115 is connected to the processor 101 (see FIG. 2) and the auxiliary storage device 104 (see FIG. 2). This is achieved by (reference). The constraint processing unit 115 determines whether the object designated as the object to be replicated (i.e., the first object) If one or more replication constraints are attached to the target, processing based on the constraints is performed. Specifically, the constraint processing unit 115 executes the following: Generate a second object containing the replacement object. The substitute object is a constraint object that the processor 101 selects based on predetermined rules. Generated based on the

[0072] When multiple candidates for the substitute object are generated, the processor 101 may select, for example, a constraint object. A candidate having a feature amount similar to the feature amount of the object is selected as a substitute object. However, if the second object has features similar to those of the first object, The candidate substitute objects that are available may be selected as the substitute object to be used. In addition, if alternative object candidates are prepared in advance, restrictions on duplication can be applied. Partial objects that have no restrictions, such as free materials, may be used preferentially. For example, a partial object with some constraints is a constraint when duplicating an object. It may be better to avoid selecting this setting whenever possible, as it may cause an increase in the number of constraints. An example of a partial object that can be used is a partial object that is linked to a non-fungible token. There is.

[0073] In this embodiment, the data of the second object may be different from that of the first object. It is assumed that the display mode that the user U sees in the virtual space is different from the first object. If so, the data of the second object may be the same as the data of the first object. In this case, the constraint on duplication is to specify the manner in which the first object is displayed after duplication. This becomes the case.

[0074] The processing by the constraint processing unit 115 includes a process of newly generating a second object in accordance with the constraint. the candidate for the second object that is part of or linked to the data of the first object The process of reading out the candidates and presenting them to the user U, and selecting one of the read candidates as the second object. This also includes processing to display the result. There are various examples of the process of generating a second object according to the constraints. Specific examples of these will be described later.

[0075] The display control unit 116 is connected to the processor 101 (see FIG. 2), the auxiliary storage device 104 (see FIG. 2), and the ) and the communication interface 105 (see FIG. 2). The display control unit 116 displays data related to the virtual space in which the user U participates on the user terminal 20 ( 2), and an image of the virtual space is displayed on the display 206 (see FIG. 2) of the user terminal 20. Specifically, the display control unit 116 displays, for example, an object UO of the user U. The image of the virtual space seen from the user terminal 20 and the position of the object UO of the user U operating the user terminal 20 are shown. An image expressing the virtual space from a bird's-eye view is displayed on the display 206.

[0076] The display control unit 116 displays the second object to the user U who instructed the duplication of the first object. It may also display suggestions for other objects. The display control unit 116 also controls the display of the user U associated with the restrictions on copying. A notification requesting whether or not to allow duplication of the first object may be displayed on screen (206). The user U associated with the constraint has the authority to copy the first object, for example. This includes users who have permission to copy restricted objects and / or users who have permission to copy restricted objects. can be.

[0077] <User terminal functional configuration> FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of the functional configuration of the user terminal 20. As shown in FIG. Specifically, the user terminal 20 includes an operation identification unit 211, a storage unit 212, a generation unit 213, a transmission unit 214, and a It includes a receiving unit 214 and a display processing unit 215 . These functional units are realized by the cooperation of the hardware and programs of the user terminal 20. will be done. The user terminal 20 includes a terminal operated by the user U who instructed the duplication and a terminal associated with the constraint. There is a terminal operated by a user U.

[0078] The operation identification unit 211 is connected to the processor 201 (see FIG. 2) and the input reception device 205 (see FIG. 2). This is achieved by (reference). The operation identification unit 211 identifies the content of the operation of the user U received through the input reception device 205. Identify. In the case of a user U who instructs duplication, the content of the specified operation may include, for example, the operation in the virtual space. The movement of the object of user U, the designation of the first object to be replicated, and the second object Selecting candidate objects and adding constraints to the second object that will be generated as a duplicate be. In the case of a user U associated with a constraint, the contents of the operations to be specified include, for example, whether or not to allow copying. , there is the addition of constraints to the first object and constraint objects.

[0079] The storage unit 212 includes the processor 201 (see FIG. 2) and the auxiliary storage device 204 (see FIG. 2). This is achieved by: The storage unit 212 stores, for example, the virtual space information received from the virtual space management server 10 (see FIG. 1). Image data, voice data of other users U who are talking in the virtual space, and other data are received on the user's own device. The character string data, voice data, and operation data received from the user U are stored in the auxiliary storage device 2. Store in 04.

[0080] The generation unit 213 is a processor 201 (see FIG. 2) and an auxiliary storage device 204 (see FIG. 2). This is achieved by: The generation unit 213 generates data representing the content of the operation of the user U identified by the operation identification unit 211. The generated data is transmitted to the virtual space management server 10 by the transmitting / receiving unit 214. will be sent to.

[0081] The transmitter / receiver 214 includes the processor 201 (see FIG. 2), the auxiliary storage device 204 (see FIG. 2), and communication interface 209 (see FIG. 2). The transmitting / receiving unit 214 transmits and receives data to and from the virtual space management server 10 (see FIG. 2). Execute. The data transmitted to the virtual space management server 10 includes, for example, object data, user data, and Data on the operations performed on the object by the user U, and the first object to be replicated. Data specifying whether the constraint object should be replicated, data specifying whether the constraint object should be replicated, and data specifying whether the constraint object should be replicated. There are data that instructs the selection of a complement, and data that instructs the addition or modification of constraints. Adding constraints to a constraint object that already has constraints and adding constraints to a part that does not have constraints Constraints are assigned to the object.

[0082] The data received from the virtual space management server 10 includes the data as seen from the object UO of the user U. The image of the virtual space and the virtual location of the object UO of the user U who operates the user terminal 20 are shown. The image shows a bird's-eye view of the virtual space, and the voices of other users U who are talking in the virtual space. The input string, the data to be used to ask the first object whether or not to copy it. ,The data of the candidate for the second object, the second object generated through the replication instruction There is an image.

[0083] The display processing unit 215 includes the processor 201 (see FIG. 2), the auxiliary storage device 204 (see FIG. 2), and the ) and display 206 (see FIG. 2). The display processing unit 215 displays the image etc. received through the transmitting / receiving unit 214 on the display 206. Display. The display processing unit 215 displays, for example, an image of the virtual space as seen from the object of the user U, A bird's-eye view of the virtual space in which the object of the user U operating the terminal 20 is located. is displayed on the display 206.

[0084] <Processing operation example> FIG. 8 shows the process executed by the processor 101 (see FIG. 2) of the virtual space management server 10 (see FIG. 2). 1 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a processing operation. It means Tep. The processing operations shown in FIG. 8 are realized by the processor 101 through the execution of a program. First, the processor 101 detects the designation of an object in the virtual space (step Top 1).

[0085] Next, the processor 101 determines whether the specified object is a target for duplication ( Step 2). If a predetermined operation is detected, it is determined to be a target for duplication. The operations that are defined include, for example, mouse and keyboard operations assigned to the replica, and operations displayed in the virtual space. There are instructions for the selected soft keys. If a negative result is obtained in step 2, processor 101 returns to step 1. Now you are back at step 1, but you can proceed to Finish.

[0086] If it is determined to be a copy target, the processor 101 obtains a positive result in step 2. If step 2 returns a positive result, the specified object is used as the first object. It is recognized by the processor 101. Next, the processor 101 determines whether the first object has a duplication restriction. (Step 3). If the first object does not include a replication constraint, the processor 101 Step 3 gives a negative result. In this case, user U has the right to freely copy the first object. It's permissible.

[0087] If step 3 returns a negative result, processor 101 creates a replica of the first object. The object is generated (step 4) and reflected in the virtual space (step 5). A second object, which is an identical replica of the object, is generated at a location specified by the user U. . Incidentally, the first object specified as the source of duplication remains in the same position in the virtual space. There are even some.

[0088] On the other hand, if the first object contains a replication constraint, then processor 1 01 gets a positive result in step 3. If step 3 returns a positive result, processor 101 determines whether the A second object is generated based on the object (step 6) and reflected in the virtual space (step 5). That is, the constraint object constituting the first object is changed to a substitute object. The two objects are generated at the positions specified by the user U. In this case, the first object specified as the source of duplication exists in the same position in the virtual space. It remains the same.

[0089] <Example of replicating an object in virtual space> Below, we will explain examples of conditional replication in virtual space using Figures 9 to 27. The duplication examples described below are also applicable to the second embodiment. <Example of virtual space> FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of a virtual space. In the virtual space shown in FIG. 9, a plurality of users There is an object UO corresponding to the user U. The user's objects UO1 to UO5 correspond to users U1 to U5 in the real world, respectively.

[0090] In such a situation, the clothes, shoes, hats, bags, etc. worn by other users' objects UO are You may want to reflect these changes in your own object UO. The clothes, shoes, hats, bags, etc. worn by UO can be reflected on other users' object UOs. There is something I want to do. By the way, the objects that are the subject of duplication are completely free to be duplicated in the virtual space. For example, in the case of an object purchased from a shop in a virtual space, it is possible to freely replicate it. On the other hand, allowing the manufacture of virtual objects would hinder commercial transactions in the virtual space. It is acceptable to allow duplication of the first object if it is changed to a substitute object. There are also users.

[0091] <When there are no restrictions on duplication> FIG. 10 shows a case where a restriction on duplication is imposed on a partial object that constitutes a first object. (A) is a diagram illustrating duplication in the absence of a hat object O1 (i.e., (B) shows the state where the first object is selected for duplication, and (C) shows the state where the object is generated by duplication. The object O2 (i.e., the second object) of the hat is the target of replication. 2 is attached to the head of object UO12. That is, in the example shown in FIG. 10, the object O1 of the hat designated as the object to be duplicated is This represents a case where a partial object with a construction constraint is not included. The example shown in Figure 10 represents a replication when a negative result is obtained in step 3 (see Figure 8). There are.

[0092] In Figure 10(A), a menu M is displayed next to the hat object O1 that is the target of duplication. Menu M is displayed by right-clicking the hat object O1 with the mouse cursor. It will be displayed by clicking The menu M shown in Figure 10(A) shows "Information" and "Copy." Figure 10(A) In this case, "Duplicate" is selected by the operation of the user U12. However, the replica of the hat object O1 is not displayed in the virtual space. The instruction may be given through mouse operation or the like.

[0093] FIG. 11 shows a case where a restriction on duplication is imposed on a partial object that constitutes a first object. 10A is a diagram illustrating another example of duplication when there is no duplication of the first object. (B) shows the second object, which is a copy of the first object. In addition, in Fig. 11, the parts corresponding to those in Fig. 10 are denoted by the same reference numerals. The following is attached. In the case of FIGS. 11A and 11B, the user U13, who is the copy destination of the hat object O1, The body shape of object UO13 is that of user U11 wearing hat object O1. In the case of FIG. 11(A), the object of user U13 is different from the object of user U011. The head size of the object UO13 is larger than the head size of the object UO11 of the user U11. It's also much smaller.

[0094] In this case, as in the case of FIG. 10(B), the object O Create object O2 of the same size as 1 and create object UO13 of user U13. It can be placed on the head. However, in this case, the head and hat objects of user U13's object UO13 The alignment with O2 becomes unnatural. Therefore, in FIG. 11B, the size of the object O3 is the same as that of the user U1, who is the copy destination. It has been scaled down to fit the head of object UO13 in 3. In addition, the hat object O3 of the object UO13 of the user U13 is On the other hand, when copying the object UO11 to the hat object O1, the size of the object O1 is The length may be increased.

[0095] <If there are restrictions on duplication> <Replication example 1: Masking constraint objects> Figure 12 shows the logo object O1A, which is part of the hat object O1, replicated. When there are restrictions on the data, and the user U who requests the duplication does not have the authority to make the duplication, 10A shows a hat object O1 as a first object. (B) shows a hat object O2 as the second object. For convenience of explanation, only the objects designated as the targets of duplication are shown in FIG. There are. In the example of Reproduction 1, the content of the restriction attached to the logo object O1A is "reproduction prohibited." In other words, Replication Example 1 shows the case where a positive result is obtained in Step 3 (see Figure 8). This represents a copy of the original when

[0096] As shown in FIG. 12(A), a hat object O1 has a constraint object O1A and The non-constrained object O1B is a book of hats. It is a body part. In the first example of duplication, the user U who instructs duplication selects the hat object O1 or the constraint object O2. It is assumed that you do not have permission to copy object O1A. Since user U does not have the permission to copy, there is no hat object O2 that satisfies the constraints. is generated.

[0097] As mentioned above, in this replication example 1, the content of the constraint is the "prohibition of replication" of the constraint object O1A. "Stop". Therefore, in FIG. 12(B), the non-constrained object O1A is inserted in the constrained object O1A portion. An alternative object O2A consisting of the pattern of O1B has been pasted on. The hat object O1 shown in FIG. 12(A) is a non-constrained object that corresponds to the main body. In the case of a structure in which constraint object O1A is attached to the surface of object O1B, the hat object Object O2 may consist of only unconstrained objects O1B. In addition, the original hat object O1 is used as the duplicated hat object O2. An alternative object O2A that replicates the data exactly and hides the entire constraint object O1A may cover the surface of constraint object O1A. In either case, the appearance of the generated hat object O2 is the same as that shown in Figure 12(B). It becomes a way of thinking.

[0098] <Replication example 2: When user U has the authority to copy> Figure 13 shows the logo object O1A, which is part of the hat object O1, replicated. A diagram illustrating an example of duplication when user U has the authority to duplicate a document, even though restrictions are imposed on the duplication. (A) shows the hat object O1 as the first object, and (B) shows the hat object O2 as the second object. Shows the hat object O2 as two objects. In FIG. 13, parts corresponding to those in FIG. 12 are denoted by the same reference numerals. In the example of reproduction 2, the content of the restriction attached to the logo object O1A is "reproduction prohibited." In this case, the object O1 (first object) is the same as the original object O2. 2 (the second object) is generated.

[0099] The reason is that the user U who instructed the replication has not yet created the object O1 or its constraints. You have duplicate privileges on object O1A, and constraint enforcement is disabled. be. A user U who has the authority to copy has, for example, an object O1 which is the source of the copy or its constraints. There is a producer, seller, purchaser, and user of object O1A. However, if any of these users U applies, the object O1 including the constraint object This does not mean that unlimited copying is permitted. Copy Example 2 is only for the user who instructed the copying. It is assumed that The U has the right to reproduce. For example, even if the seller of the object O1, which is the source of the copy, instructs the copy, Without the permission of user U who purchased object O1, the object containing constraint object O1A A restriction that does not allow copying of the object O1 is also possible.

[0100] In addition, the user U can be given a location in the real or virtual space according to constraints. Replication may be controlled. For example, if a user U in the real world is in a specified position or a specific area in the real world, , the control of replication may be changed. For example, the character image (avatar) that the user operates in the virtual space and the original image The control of duplication may be changed depending on the distance to the object existing in the virtual space. For example, the character image operated by the user is displayed on the display together with the original image. If the character is in the same area as the user, duplication is possible. The closer you are to an object in virtual space, the greater the scope of permissions you can replicate. It may be possible to do so.

[0101] In addition, if there is a character image in the virtual space that the user operates, the original and It may be possible to accept a duplication operation for the candidate object you want to specify. In other words, the character image operated by the user is near the candidate object to be duplicated. If not, the copy operation may be refused. In addition, the character image operated by the user can touch objects that exist in the virtual space. The scope of authorization for copying may be increased by performing a predetermined operation such as adding a file to the file.

[0102] A user U who has the authority to copy an object O1, which is the source of the copy, can access the object O1 from, for example, a virtual space. The data is managed in the auxiliary storage device 104 (see FIG. 2) of the data management server 10 (see FIG. 2). However, for user U who has the authority to copy, object O1 can be copied into the virtual space. The server of the user U who placed the object O1 and the server of the user U who sold the object O1 are managed by the server of the user U who placed the object O1. In this case, the processor 101 of the virtual space management server 10 (see FIG. 2) Through communication with other servers, it determines whether or not there is permission to copy.

[0103] <Replication example 3: Example 1 when there are restrictions on shape duplication> Replication example 3 is a replication of the constraint object O1A of the object O1, which is the replication source, or its constraint object. This is another example of copying when you do not have permission to copy object O1A. Figure 14 shows the logo object O1A, which is part of the hat object O1, replicated. Other cases where restrictions are attached regarding the copying and the user U who instructs the copying does not have the authority to copy 10A is a diagram illustrating an example of duplication of a hat object O1 as a first object. (B) and (C) show a hat object O2 as the second object. In FIG. 14, parts corresponding to those in FIG. 12 are denoted by the same reference numerals.

[0104] The hat object O1 shown in FIG. 14(A) is the same as the hat object O1 shown in FIG. 12(A). It is the same as ToO1. The duplication constraint in duplication example 3 is a change in the shape of the logo, which is the constraint object O1A. do. The constraint object O1A in FIG. 14(A) is the "A" in the logo. The substitute object O2B in the object O2 shown in 4(B) is changed to the "B" in the logo. It has been done.

[0105] In addition, in the object O2 shown in FIG. 14(B), a logo is used as a substitute object O2B. The letter "B" is an example, but other alphabets and Greek letters can be substituted with the object O2 B, or a circle, triangle, square, or other mark can be used as an alternative object O2B. Also, the font used in the alternative object O2B can be changed to the font used in the constraint object O2B. It may be changed to O1A. The object O2 shown in FIG. 14(C) is a substitute object O2C that has a constraint object This is an example that includes the same logo as O1A. However, a new logo is added as the base of constraint object O1A. A new circular pattern is added, and the color of the logo that makes up the constraint object O1A is changed. is different from the original object O1. In this way, any other object related to constraint object O1A It may be considered a substitute object.

[0106] The substitute object here is the object that is created by the processor 101 (see FIG. 2) at the time when the copy is instructed. ) may be generated throughout the execution of the program, but the constraint object O1A is replicated. It is generated in advance in case of a problem and is linked to object O1 and constraint object O1A. For example, if the creator of the constraint object O1A creates an alternative object in advance, In this case, some of the substitute objects generated during the replication process in virtual space will be This allows for control of

[0107] If there are multiple alternative objects associated with constraint object O1A, replication is indicated. The processor 10 determines the characteristics of the user U, the destination of the copy, the number of copies, the number of generations of the copy, and so on. 1 (see Figure 2) may determine an alternative object to use. The characteristics of user U include the gender, age, and preferences of user U that can be inferred from the history of past operations. The replica destinations include the object UO of the user U, the user registered in the virtual space, and There are spaces that belong to the user personally, such as the user's room or desk, and public spaces such as parks.

[0108] The number of times of duplication includes the number of times of duplication of the hat object O1, as well as the number of times of duplication of the constraint object O1A. There are the number of times of replication and the number of generations of replication. Constraint object O1A is combined with various objects as subobjects When used, the number of copies and the number of generations of copies of the constraint object O1A are used. This sometimes happens. In addition, the substitute object has features similar to those of the original object O1. The alternative object may be determined in terms of object O2 having: Examples of copies based on this information will be described later.

[0109] <Replication Example 4: Example 2 when there are restrictions on shape duplication> Figure 15 shows the main object O1B, which is a part of the hat object O1, being replicated. Other cases where restrictions are attached regarding the copying and the user U who instructs the copying does not have the authority to copy 10A is a diagram illustrating an example of duplication of a hat object O1 as a first object. (B) and (C) show a hat object O2 as the second object. In FIG. 15, parts corresponding to those in FIG. 12 are denoted by the same reference numerals.

[0110] The hat object O1 shown in FIG. 15(A) is the same as the hat object O1 shown in FIG. 12(A). It is the same as ToO1. However, the non-constrained object is O1A and the constrained object is O1B. This is different from FIG. 12(A). Therefore, the replication constraint in the replication example 4 is the shape of the body, which is the constraint object O1B. This is a change. The object O2 shown in FIG. 15(B) is the same hat as the original object O1. However, the first object, O1, was a so-called cap. On the other hand, the object O2 generated as the second object is changed to a so-called hat. This hat-shaped object is the substitute object O2D. Since the subobject O1A of object O1 is a non-constrained object, the same is true for object O2. It has been reproduced as is.

[0111] On the other hand, the object O2 shown in FIG. 15(C) has the same capacity as the original object O1. However, the brim of the partial object O2E shown in FIG. The shape is different from the original object O1. Note that the logo is an unconstrained object O1A, so it can be replicated as is on object O2. It is manufactured.

[0112] <Replication example 5: Example of restrictions on color duplication> Figure 16 shows the logo object O1A, which is part of the hat object O1, being replicated. Other cases where restrictions are attached regarding the copying and the user U who instructs the copying does not have the authority to copy 10A is a diagram illustrating an example of duplication of a hat object O1 as a first object. (B) and (C) show a hat object O2 as the second object. In FIG. 16, parts corresponding to those in FIG. 12 are denoted by the same reference numerals.

[0113] The duplication constraint in duplication example 5 is to change the color of the logo, which is the constraint object O1A. Therefore, the unconstrained objects corresponding to the body of the hat in Fig. 16(A), (B) and (C) The shapes of the constraint objects O1A and O1B are the same. The corresponding substitute objects O2F and O2G have the same shape. However, the color of the constraint object O1A in FIG. 16(A) is "red", but the color of the alternative object The color of the object O2F is "blue" and the color of the substitute object O2G is "yellow." As mentioned above, the color of the substitute object is different from the color of the constraint object. The differences must be distinct enough to be distinguishable. In addition, when changing colors, you can change not only the hue but also the saturation and brightness. stomach.

[0114] <Replication Example 6: Example of restrictions on pattern duplication> Figure 17 shows a case where a restriction on duplication is imposed on the body, which is a part of the hat object O1. 10 is a diagram illustrating another example of duplication when a user U who issues a duplication instruction does not have the authority to make duplication. (A) shows a hat object O1 as the first object, (B) and ( C) shows the hat object O2 as the second object. In FIG. 17, parts corresponding to those in FIG. 12 are denoted by the same reference numerals.

[0115] The copy constraint in copy example 6 is the pattern of the main body, which is the constraint object O1B. It is attached. Therefore, the constraint objects corresponding to the main body of the hat in Figs. 17(A), (B) and (C) are The shape of the object O1B and the shape of the unconstrained object O1A are the same before and after the duplication. In the case of the reproduction example 6, the object O1 of the hat before reproduction is composed of a plain body and a logo. It has been completed.

[0116] On the other hand, in the case of the object O2 after duplication shown in Figure 17(B), the pattern on the main body of the hat is In the case of FIG. 17(B), the alternative object O2 is replaced by the alternative object O2H. The H is made up of a pattern of dots. In the case of the object O2 after duplication shown in Figure 17(C), the pattern on the main part of the hat is the substitute object. In the case of FIG. 17(C), the substitute object O2J is It has a checkered pattern. The patterns of the substitute objects O2H and O2J appear to be the same as the patterns of the constraint objects. The differences must be such that the above differences can be identified.

[0117] <Replication Example 7: Example of restrictions on replicating time information> Figure 18 shows the time-dependent change in the display color of the logo, which is part of the hat object O1, and the results of the replication. In the case where a user U who requests duplication does not have the authority to duplicate, 10A is a diagram illustrating an example of a hat object O1 as a first object. (B) shows a hat object O2 as the second object. In FIG. 18, parts corresponding to those in FIG. 12 are denoted by the same reference numerals.

[0118] In the case of Figure 18(A), the logo of the hat object O1 is a constraint object O1A. The color of the logo changes from "red" to "blue" and back again every 5 seconds. In the replication example 7, the replication of the time information attached to the color of the constraint object O1A is restricted. do. Therefore, the substitute object for the object O2 (second object) shown in FIG. 18(B) is The color of the object O2K is fixed as "red." Color changes over time (such as color changes over time) are not replicated. In the example of duplication shown in Figure 18, for the sake of convenience, the change in color was explained, but the change in shape was also explained. Regarding time changes and time changes in patterns, copying may be performed excluding time information.

[0119] <Replication example 8: Example of when one object contains multiple constraints> Figure 19 shows an example where two identical constraints on replication are applied to an object O1. 10A is a diagram illustrating another example of duplication when a hat object is used as the first object. (B) to (D) show the hat object O1 as the second object. Shows 2. In FIG. 19, parts corresponding to those in FIG. 12 are denoted by the same reference numerals. In this example of duplication, the user U who instructs duplication can This assumes that neither party has the right to copy.

[0120] 19, the content of the constraint is the shape. The shapes of 1 and O1A2 are required to be changed to a different shape when they are replicated. As with the other duplication examples, the hat object O1 that is the source of duplication is shown in FIG. 19(A). In the case of replication example 8, the non-constrained object O1B is a partial object of the hat body, Constraint objects O1A1 and O1A2 are the logo subobject and the mark subobject. It is a project. The subobject of the logo is the letter "A", as in other reproductions. A subobject is a double circle symbol. In this way, one object O1 can have multiple If the constraint object is a subobject of the same kind, multiple constraint objects This is not necessarily the case.

[0121] Figure 19(B) and Figure 19(C) show the constraint objects O1A1 and O1A2 as a common shape. An example of substitution is shown below. In the object O2 (second object) shown in FIG. 19(B), two constraint objects are This shows an example where the shape of the logo has been changed to the letter "B." The subobjects of the mark as well as the substitute object O2L1 corresponding to the object The corresponding substitute object O2L2 is assigned the same letter. The substitute objects O2L1 and O2L2 here are an example of a common image. By replacing the constraint objects O1A1 and O1A2 with the same character, the object This improves the sense of visual unity in O2 (second object).

[0122] In the object O2 (second object) shown in FIG. 19(C), two constraint objects are This shows an example where the shapes of the logos have been changed to oval shapes. The subobject of the mark as well as the substitute object O2M1 corresponding to the subobject The same shape is assigned to the substitute object O2M2 corresponding to the object. The substitute objects O2M1 and O2M2 here are also examples of common images. By replacing the constraint objects O1A1 and O1A2 with the same shape, the object This improves the sense of visual unity in O2 (second object).

[0123] On the other hand, if multiple constraint objects are heterogeneous subobjects, they are not related to a common image. It is also possible to control without changing it. In the object O2 (second object) shown in FIG. 19(D), the constraint object to be copied is 10 shows an example in which the shape after duplication is determined for each type of object. For example, the alternative object O2N1 corresponding to the logo subobject is the letter "B". The substitute object O2N2 corresponding to the partial object of the mark is circular. This method of duplication is similar to the example shown in Figs. 19(B) and (C) where the entire object O2 is Although the sense of unity is not achieved, the appearance of the original object O1 is retained. This makes it possible to

[0124] In Figure 19, when multiple constraints on duplication are all about shape, However, the content of multiple restrictions on duplication can be color or pattern. It's okay to have one. In addition, multiple replication constraints contained in a single object may contain different content. In this case, each subobject is replaced with a substitute object according to the content of the corresponding constraint. That's fine.

[0125] <Replication Example 9: Example of collectively replicating multiple objects including constraints> Figure 20 shows two objects, O1 and O11, which contain replication constraints and are subject to bulk replication. 10A is a diagram illustrating an example of duplication when a first object is specified as an elephant. (B) shows the hat objects O1 and O11 as the second object. Objects O2 and O21 are shown. In FIG. 20, parts corresponding to those in FIG. 12 are denoted by the same reference numerals. In this example of duplication, the user U who instructs duplication can This assumes that neither party has the right to copy.

[0126] In the case of FIG. 20(A), the hat object O1 is divided into a constrained object O1A and a non-constrained object O1B. The hat object O11 is composed of a constraint object O11A. and non-constrained object O11B. The contents of the constraints in Figure 20 are all shapes. The shape must be changed to a different shape when it is reproduced. As with the other duplication examples, the original hat objects O1 and O11 are shown in FIG. is shown in.

[0127] In the case of Figure 20(A), the constraint object O1A is the letter "A" and the constraint object The letter "B" is the letter "B"; that is, the two objects that are the target of bulk replication. The types of constraint objects O1A and O11A contained in O1 and O11, as well as the contents of the constraints It's the same. Therefore, in FIG. 20(B), the same statement is written in the constraint objects O1A and O11A. The substitute objects O2A and O21A for the character "C" are assigned. However, as explained in Figure 19(C), the substitute object It is also possible to assign a common graphic to O2A and O21A.

[0128] Multiple constraints included in multiple objects (first objects) that are targets of bulk duplication By assigning the same image to objects O1A and O11A, two images are generated. This improves the visual consistency of objects O2 and O21. In Figure 20, when multiple constraints on duplication are all about shape, However, the content of multiple restrictions on duplication can be color or pattern. It's okay to have one. In addition, multiple objects that are targets of a single group may have different restrictions on duplication. When the contents are mixed, each subobject is treated as an alternative object according to the contents of the corresponding constraint. Just replace it with a project.

[0129] Figure 21 shows two objects, O1 and O11, which contain replication constraints and are subject to bulk replication. 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating other examples of duplication when the first object is specified as an elephant. (B) shows the hat objects O1 and O11 as the first object, and (C) shows the hat object O2 as the second object. Shows child objects O2 and O21. In FIG. 21, parts corresponding to those in FIG. 20 are denoted by the same reference numerals. The difference from Figure 20 is that the content of the constraints on the replication of object O1 located on the left side of the figure is The constraints on the replication of object O1 on the right side of the figure are It is a point that is color.

[0130] In this case, there is no commonality in the content of the constraints. Therefore, in the case of FIG. 21(B), duplication is performed in accordance with each constraint. For example, in the case of object O2 located on the left side of the figure, the text is used as a partial object of the logo. An alternative object O2A for the letter "C" is placed. On the other hand, in the case of object O21 located on the right side of the figure, as a partial object of the logo , a substitute object O21A of the letter "B" with a different color from the original is placed. , the color of the constraint object O11A is red, and the color of the alternative object O21A is blue. .

[0131] <Replication Example 10: Example in which the contents of the alternative object are changed according to the number of generations of the replication> In Replication Example 10, when the number of generations of object replication in the virtual space is managed, An example of executing replication according to the number of generations of replication will be described. FIG. 22 is a diagram illustrating an example of object replication according to the number of replication generations. Object O0 is when the replication generation number is "0", and (B) is when the replication generation number is "1". (C) is the object O1 when the number of generations of replication is "2" O2, (D) is object O3 when the number of generations of replication is "3", and (E) is This is object O4 when the number of replication generations is "4" or more. In FIG. 22, parts corresponding to those in FIG. 15 are denoted by the same reference numerals.

[0132] A generation number of "0" means the object at the beginning of a series of replications. It is also called the original object or the prototype object. Note that even if other objects are replicated based on object O0, which has a generation number of 0, the object The generation number of object O0 remains "0". The object O0 (first object) shown in FIG. 22(A) is a hat object. , which is the same as the object O1 shown in FIG. 15(A). Note that object O0 consists of unconstrained object O0A and constrained object O0B. In other words, the body of the hat is the constraint object. The content of the constraint is The shape.

[0133] In the following, we will explain how to create an object O1 (the second object) by using the object O0 as the original. The number of generations of the object O0 is counted as "1". No matter how many O1s (second objects) there are, the number of generations is "1". The object O1 (first object) with the generation number of "1" is used as the source of the copy. The generation number of object O2 (the second object) is "2", and the object with the generation number "2" Object O2 (first object) is used as the source of duplication. The generation number of object O3 (first object) is "3". The number of generations of object O4 (the second object) created using the original object O1 is 4. "

[0134] The objects O1, O2, and O3 shown in Figures 22(B) to 22(D) have a replication generation number of "1". , "2", and "3". The object O1 shown in FIG. 22(B) is a substitute object O1B and a non-constrained object. It is composed of O0A. The shape of the substitute object O1B corresponding to the body of the hat is different from that of the constraint object O0B. However, there is a difference in appearance between the constraint object O0B and the alternative object O1B. The main difference is the brim of the hat, and the similarity to the original object is high.

[0135] In the case of replication example 10, the object O1 with the generation number of "1" and the object O1 are replicated. The shape of object O2, which is generated as a manufacturer with a generation number of "2", and this object O The shape of object O3, which is generated from object 2 and has a generation number of "3", is the same. This is the difference from the previous example of reproduction. In other words, cloning an object that contains a constraint object does not result in the The part is not necessarily changed to a substitute object. The object O4 shown in FIG. 22(E) represents a case where the number of generations of replication is "4" or more. The object O4 shown in FIG. 22(E) is a substitute object O4B that has been changed into a hat. Even if the number of generations increases to 4 or more due to replication, the replacement object after replication is The shape of the O4B will remain the same.

[0136] The object O4 shown in FIG. 22(E) is also a hat, which is the same as the object O4 shown in FIG. 22(A). The object O0 is the same as the object O1 shown in FIG. 22(B), but the appearance is different. is also getting bigger. In other words, in Figures 22(A) to 22(E), as the number of generations increases, the number of generated objects increases. The shape of the substitute objects that make up the object is determined by the constraint objects that make up the original object. Replication conditions are designed to increase variation from the target. In the example of FIG. 22, the content of the constraint defined for the constraint object is shape. However, even if the constraints are color or pattern, the conditions are set according to the number of generations of replication. You may also manage copies with conditions.

[0137] <Replication Example 11: Example where the contents of the substitute object change depending on the number of times of replication> In Replication Example 11, when the number of times an object is replicated in a virtual space is managed, An example of execution of replication according to the number of generations of replication will be explained. FIG. 23 is a diagram illustrating an example of object duplication according to the number of duplications. (B) is the object O0 when the number of copies is "0", and (C) is the object O1 when the number of copies is "1". (C) is the object O1 when the number of replications is "2", and (D) is the object O2 when the number of replications is "2". (D) is object O3 when the number of copies is "3", and (E) is object O4 when the number of copies is "3". is "4", then it is object O4. In FIG. 23, parts corresponding to those in FIG. 22 are denoted by the same reference numerals.

[0138] The generation number of Figures 23(B) to 23(D) is "1", and the generation number of Figure 23(E) is "2". However, the execution conditions of the constraints are different from those in Figure 22(B), so the generated object The appearance is different. In Figure 23, the number of replications is integrated into the original object, object O0. Therefore, the object O4 shown in FIG. 23(E) is considered to be the fourth copy. It has been done. In this example too, as the number of replications increases, the number of substitutes that make up the resulting object increases. The shape of the replacement object changes from the original object, the constraint object. Replication conditions are designed to grow larger.

[0139] Therefore, in the example in Figure 23, the shape of the main body of the hat changes each time the number of copies increases. However, in the example in Figure 23, even if the number of copies is three or more, the main body of the hat The shape of the hat itself does not change. However, the change in the shape of the main body of the hat is stopped during the replication process. The number of times is not limited to three. For example, it can be four or five times. Also, the shape of the main body of the hat can be changed. It is also possible to set the number of times replication is stopped before replication is stopped. In the example of Figure 23, the content of the constraints defined for the constraint object is shape. However, even if the constraints are color or pattern, the conditions are set according to the number of generations of replication. You may also manage copies with conditions.

[0140] On the other hand, the number of copies is not integrated into the original object, object O0. Management methods are also possible. FIG. 24 is a diagram illustrating an example of managing the number of copies per copy source. 4, parts corresponding to those in FIG. 23 are denoted by the same reference numerals. In the example shown in Figure 24, the number of copies is managed for each object that is the source of the copy. Therefore, the hat objects O1, O2, and O3 in the second row are all objects that have the same origin. The number of times the object O0 is replicated is managed by the number of times the object O4, O 5 is managed by the number of times of replication for object O2, which has the same replication source. Object O4 is replicated once, and object O5 is replicated twice. is.

[0141] The number of times that objects O4 and O5 are replicated is based on the original object O2. Therefore, the shape of the substitute object O4B that composes the object O4 is the same as the original object O4. The object O2 is changed based on the alternative object O2B, which is the constraint object of the object O2. Therefore, the difference in shape between the original object O0 and the object O1 is as shown in Figure 22. is smaller than in the case of In the case of FIG. 24, if the number of copies is less than a predetermined number, The increase in the number of constraints does not change the shape of the hat itself, which is a non-constrained object. As shown in (1) to (D), the shape may be changed each time as the number of replications increases. In the example of Figure 24, the content of the constraints defined for the constraint object is shape. However, even if the constraints are color or pattern, the conditions are set according to the number of generations of replication. You may also manage copies with conditions.

[0142] <Replication example 12: Example 1 of replication according to the position in the virtual space of the original> Figure 25 shows a place for the free exchange of objects (hereafter referred to as "free space"). This explains how to replicate an object when the source object exists in (A) shows the case where a constrained object O1 exists in free space. ,(B) shows the duplication of object O1 in free space. The term "free space" here is an example of a name, such as a free exchange or public space. In Figures 25(A) and (B), an example is shown in which the free space is a park.

[0143] The object O1 (first object) described in the replication example 12 has the same structure as the other replication examples. There are restrictions on reproduction of the logo. In replication example 12, the execution condition of the constraint is that the constraint is disabled for replication within the free space. This is to include the intention to do so. However, the execution conditions for disabling the execution of constraints can be specified by specifying a date and time or a specific period. It is also possible.

[0144] In FIG. 25(B), two types of replication examples are shown. The first example of duplication is to duplicate object O1 to another location in free space. In FIG. 25(B), an object O2 that is identical to the object O1 is duplicated. Note that the object O2 inherits the restrictions on the duplication of the object O1. Therefore, when duplicating object O2 in another location in the virtual space, The constraint is activated.

[0145] The second example of replication is to replicate object O1 to the object of user U1 in free space. This is an example of duplicating to UO1. In the case of FIG. 25(B), if the copy destination is object UO1 of user U1, Therefore, as with the other replication examples mentioned above, the constraints are enforced even in replication within the space. The logo of object O3 replicated above the head of user U1's object UO1 is "B" has been changed to. However, if the copy is made in the free space, the copy destination will be the object of user U1. In the case of the original UO1, an object O2 identical to the original object O1 may be generated. That is, above the head of the object UO1 of the user U1, there is a hat object with the logo "A". The O2 may be replicated.

[0146] However, when user U1's object UO1 moves out of the free space, the constraints become effective. The object O2 is replicated on top of the object UO1 of the user U1. In other words, while staying in free space, The logo on the hat is "A", but when it moves out of the free space, the logo changes to "B". This may be done. On the other hand, if the replication is performed in the free space, the replication will not occur even if it moves out of the free space. Alternatively, the setting may be such that the constraints of the created object O2 remain disabled. However, in the replication performed outside of free space, the object O2 is inherited. The replication constraints are re-enabled to prevent identical objects from being replicated. For example, a desk, closet, or other space associated with a specific user U, or When copying to an object UO, copying is performed according to constraints.

[0147] <Replication Example 13: Example 2 of replication according to the position in the virtual space of the original> Figure 26 shows a place where the original object is placed for the purpose of free exchange of objects. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating another example of object duplication when there is a constraint. (B) shows the case where the object O1 is in the free space, and (C) shows the object of the user U1. Object UO1 is shown replicated in free space. In FIG. 26, parts corresponding to those in FIG. 25 are denoted by the same reference numerals. The difference between Figure 26 and Figure 25 is that the original object O1 is the object of user U1. It is a point located above UO1.

[0148] In the case of FIG. 26, object O1 has a restriction on duplication, but it is free. Since it is a copy in space, the enforcement of constraints is disabled. Object O2, which is identical to object O1, has been duplicated. In this case, object O2 inherits the replication constraints of object O1. Therefore, when duplicating the object O2 at another location in the virtual space, Replication restrictions come into effect.

[0149] <Replication Example 14: Example 2 of replication according to the position in the virtual space of the original> Figure 27 shows a place where the original object is placed for the purpose of free exchange of objects. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating another example of object duplication when there is a constraint. (B) shows the case where the object O1 is in the free space, and (C) shows the object of the user U1. Object UO1 is shown replicated in free space. In FIG. 27, parts corresponding to those in FIG. 25 are denoted by the same reference numerals. The difference between FIG. 27 and FIG. 25 is that the original object O1 is the object of user U2. It is a point located above UO2.

[0150] The example shown in FIG. 27 shows the difference between duplication with and without authorization for duplication. In the free space shown in FIG. 27(A), an object UO of a user U1 wearing a hat is displayed. 1, object UO2 of user U2 who is not wearing a hat, and object UO3 of user U3 User U2 has permission to replicate object O1. Although user U3 does not have permission to replicate object O1, user U3 does have permission to replicate object O1. FIG. 27(B) shows the hat object O1 interacting with the object UO2 of user U2. This represents the case where the object U3 is replicated above UO3. In the case of FIG. 27(B), the duplicated object is displayed above the head of user U2 who does not have the right to duplicate. The O2 logo has been changed to "B." Meanwhile, the user U3, who has the right to copy, has a The logo on the duplicated object O3 remains "A". In the case of replication example 14, the object UO3 of user U3 who has the replication authority is linked to The object O3 will not change its appearance even if it is moved out of the free space. .

[0151] <Example of user interface related to object duplication> Below is an example of the user interface that is displayed when performing the above mentioned replication. The example of the user interface described below is also applicable to the second embodiment. It is common. Below we will explain the user interface for constrained replication advance notification and how to add constraints. This section explains the user interface used for editing and correction.

[0152] <Advance notice> Here, we consider the case where object O has a replication constraint and the prior notification This section explains the functions that can be used. The prior notification includes a notification to user U instructing duplication and a notification to user U with restrictions on duplication. There is a notice to The U.

[0153] <Notification to users instructing duplication> FIG. 28 is a diagram illustrating an example of a notification to a user U who has instructed a copy with restrictions. (A) (A) shows an example of a notification to a user instructing duplication, and (B) shows an example of the content of the notification. In FIG. 28, parts corresponding to those in FIG. 10 are denoted by the same reference numerals. In the menu M shown in FIG. 28(A), the hat object O1 is selected as the object to be duplicated. At this time, a message notifying the existence of restrictions on duplication appears to the right of the menu M. Page MS will be displayed. FIG. 28(B) shows an example of a message MS and a replication execution.

[0154] In Example 1, after the constraint is notified, the entire object is automatically replicated. The purpose is to provide advance notification of restricted duplication, so duplication itself is performed automatically. The message MS contains, for example, "This object has duplication constraints." By this notification, user U can select a second object that is different from the first object that he / she specified as the target of duplication. It becomes possible to know why an object is being replicated.

[0155] In Example 2, after notifying that a part of the subobject will be changed, the object The whole copy is automatically executed. The difference from Example 1 is that the constraint is located in a part of the subobject. The message MS used for notification contains, for example, "This object When you clone an object, some of its sub-objects will be changed. User U then sees that a second object different from the first object specified for duplication is It becomes possible to know the specific reason for duplication.

[0156] In Example 3, a notification is sent that a change will occur in a part of the partial object, and the decision is made as to whether or not to perform replication. The difference between Example 1 and Example 2 is that the execution of the replication waits for an instruction from User U. The message MS used for notification contains, for example, "This object Duplicating will result in changes to some subobjects. Do you want to duplicate? "Yes / "Yes" and "No" are displayed as soft keys in the virtual space. Upon receiving this notification, user U, who does not want to change even a part of the object, can cancel the execution of the copy. You can stop the line before it starts.

[0157] In Example 4, candidates for objects to be generated by duplication are presented, and the user is asked whether to execute duplication. An inquiry is made to user U. In example 4, user U is also inquired in advance as to whether or not replication can be performed. The difference between Example 4 and Example 3 is that candidates for objects to be generated by replication are presented in advance. The message MS used for notification contains, for example, "When this object is duplicated, The following objects will be changed: Do you want to replicate?, Yes / No. Then, the image of the candidate object to be generated is presented. You can check the objects that will be generated by the execution of the replication and then decide whether or not to execute the replication. becomes.

[0158] In Example 5, multiple candidates for objects to be generated by duplication are presented, and the user is prompted to select a candidate. In Example 5, candidates for objects to be generated by duplication are also presented in advance. This is the same as Example 4 in that multiple candidates are presented. The suggestions may be presented one by one in order, or multiple suggestions may be presented at once. The message MS contains, for example, "Please select the object you want to use from the following candidates." " ", "○Candidate 1 ◎Candidate 2 ○Candidate 3 ○Candidate 4". Example of Figure 28(B) Although the text is displayed in the figure, the actual thumbnail images are displayed. ), the second candidate is selected.

[0159] In addition, when multiple candidates are presented in order or at once, the recommended candidate will be placed at the top. The fact that the candidate is recommended will be notified by highlighting the candidate or by comments. The candidates to be presented are determined based on the operation history of the user U who instructed the duplication, for example. Alternatively, the determination may be based on a statistical history of operations by an unspecified user U. Incidentally, the history includes the trends of candidates selected in past duplications and the number of times each candidate was selected. By using the history of each individual, it is possible to present candidates that match the preferences of the user U with priority. However, if a sufficient number of records is not accumulated, the presentation based on individual history may not reflect the preferences of user U. In this case, statistical history can be used to find a method that is preferred by many users U. Candidates that fit the criteria can be presented preferentially.

[0160] In Example 6, the user U is asked to edit a subobject that has constraints. Unlike the previous example, user U makes an edit to a subobject that has constraints. The message MS may say, for example, "Logo changes are required to perform the duplication. Edit the logo." For example, if "Yes" is selected, an editable area will be displayed in the virtual space. The following window will appear, allowing you to edit the object O1 that you specified as the object to be duplicated. In this window, the subobjects that are constraint objects are explicitly shown. will be done.

[0161] <Notification to users regarding restrictions on copying> In FIG. 28, an example of notification to the user U who instructed the duplication was explained. The notification to user U will be explained. FIG. 29 is a diagram illustrating an example of a notification to user U21 that imposes restrictions on duplication. A) shows an example of a notification to user U21 with restrictions, and (B) shows an example of the content of the notification. . In FIG. 29(A), a message is displayed at the position of a user object UO21 corresponding to a user U21. Message MS is displayed in speech bubble format. FIG. 29(B) shows an example of the message MS.

[0162] In Example 1, the replication event of the object or subobject with the constraint is generated. Example 1 is intended to notify in advance of a replication event, so notification is given before the replication is performed. The message MS used for notification may contain, for example, "A copy of the hat object is requested." In fact, as shown in Figure 29(B), the object of the hat that is instructed to be replicated is The image of the object is displayed. By displaying the image, you can check the partial object with the constraints set. This becomes possible. In Example 1, user U21 only knows that a replication event has occurred and can instruct whether or not to allow replication. It is not possible.

[0163] In Example 2, the replication event for the constrained object or subobject is executed. In Example 2, the purpose is to notify the execution of a replication event, so the notification is sent after the replication is executed. The message MS used for notification may contain, for example, "The hat object has been duplicated. As shown in Figure 29(B), the object of the hat that has been instructed to be duplicated is The image is displayed. In the case of Example 2, user U21 only knows that copying is being performed and cannot instruct whether or not copying is permitted. This is not possible.

[0164] In the case of Example 3, the replication event of the object or subobject with the constraint is generated. In example 3, not only is the notification of the occurrence of a replication event made, but the The user U21 is given an opportunity to indicate whether or not to execute the process. Ss were asked, for example, "You have been asked to copy the hat object. Do you allow the copy?" "Yes" and "No" are displayed as soft keys in the virtual space. In this case, if the user U21 who set the restriction does not give permission, the object will not be duplicated. Although the replication itself is performed, the constraint object is replaced afterwards. It is possible to change it to a replacement object.

[0165] <Add constraint> The constraints on replication are, for example, when a new object is generated in the virtual space. However, operationally, it may be necessary to modify or add constraints. FIG. 30 shows a user interface that allows adding a restriction on replication attached to object O1. FIG. 10 illustrates an example of a user interface. Menu M shown in FIG. 30 is displayed when you right-click on object O1 with the mouse cursor, for example. In FIG. 30, the parts corresponding to those in FIG. 10(A) are denoted by the same reference numerals. Note that the object O1 is not limited to the original object. It may also be a copy generated from the object.

[0166] Menu M, shown in Figure 30, displays the options "Add Constraint" and "Modify Constraint." In FIG. 30, the user U selects "add constraint." In FIG. 30, the "Add Constraint" submenu SM is displayed. In the case of the submenu SM shown in Figure 30, you can specify the subobject to which you want to add constraints. Please select the constraint content and execution conditions.", followed by "Permissions" and Examples of "contents of constraints" and "execution conditions" are given. The subobjects here are not limited to unconstrained objects, but can also be constrained objects. If a constraint object is specified, the new constraint is added to the existing constraints. Here, the partial object is the object generated by duplication (the second object ) is also acceptable.

[0167] The "Authorization" input field is used to check the type of authority for the partial object. This is to prevent the addition of restrictions by an unlimited number of users U. Whether or not to do so is determined based on data managed by the virtual space management server 10 (see FIG. 1). Be authenticated. In FIG. 30, the user of the object is selected. The "Constraint Content" input field is used to input the content of the constraint to be added. For example, there are restrictions such as "prohibition of duplication," "change of shape," "change of color," and "change of pattern." These are just some examples. In FIG. 30, "Change Shape" is selected.

[0168] The "Execution Condition" input field is used to add execution conditions for the constraint. Examples of "number of generations," "number of copies," and "whether or not copying is possible in free space" are given. In FIG. 30, "Number of generations of duplication" and "Whether duplication in free space is permitted" are selected. Incidentally, the "Number of generations of reproduction" section states that "reproduction is free up to three generations." However, since free written specification may not guarantee execution, it is preferable to choose from a range of options. Also, "Yes" is selected for "Copy in free space". ,Free copying is permitted in free space.

[0169] If the content of the added constraint contradicts other existing constraints, this will be displayed. Prevents adding constraints. If a conflicting constraint is added, replication will not run. However, if conflicting constraints are added, the order in which they were added is the oldest. A mechanism may be adopted that prioritizes the less restrictive constraints so that no problems occur in executing the replication. A similar submenu is also available for "Modify Constraints." The only people who can modify the constraints using the submenu SM corresponding to " are the user U who set the constraints and the It is required to be identical.

[0170] <Examples of situations where replication occurs> In most cases, the instruction to copy and the execution of the copy are done at the same time. It is also possible that the line number is different from the line number. FIG. 31 is a diagram illustrating an example of a case where a copy instruction and the execution of the copy are different. (A) (A) shows an example of the gift option, and (B) shows an example of the execution of the copy as a gift. (C) shows an example of adjusting the position of the duplicated bag. FIG. 31(A) shows an object UO12 corresponding to a user U12, an object UO13 corresponding to a user U13, and an object UO24 corresponding to a user U14. The object UO13 corresponding to the user U14 is displayed. are.

[0171] In Figure 31(A), the presentation is displayed in the menu that appears when you right-click the mouse cursor. This shows that the gift option is selected. The title "Options" appears, and an image of the object that can be duplicated is displayed. In the case of FIG. 31(A), an image of a bag and an image of a hat are displayed, and the bag is selected. do. The submenu SM also provides options for the copy destination and the validity of the pose to be used when performing the copy. The None option is displayed. In FIG. 31(A), the thumbnail of object UO13 of user U13 is selected as the copy destination. A nail image and a thumbnail image of object UO14 of user U14 are displayed. , the thumbnail image of object UO13 of user U13 is selected. "Yes" is selected for the pause during execution.

[0172] In FIG. 31(B), the object UO12 of the sender user U12 sends the message As MS1, he said, "I'll give it to you as a gift," and "I hope you like it." Although it is omitted in FIG. 31(B) due to drawing constraints, the sender, user U12, The object UO12 will have a pose and action specific to presents. The feelings of the Lord are expressed. In FIG. 31(B), the object UO13 of the user U13 who is the recipient of the present is The bag object O31 is duplicated around the chest, making the destination of the duplication clear.

[0173] In Figure 31(C), the replica is a gift, so the recipient has received the gift bag. Joy and gratitude are expressed through the poses and movements of the object UO13 of the user U13. In FIG. 31(C), the message MS2 is "Thank you." Also, since the gifted bag is a hand-carried bag, object O31 is automatically The position of the hand of the object UO13 is adjusted. If there is a setting for dominant hand, The hand holding the bag object O31 may be determined according to the setting of the dominant hand.

[0174] In addition, if size information is included as information about the structure of object O31, The object O31 is displayed in the virtual space according to the scale at the time of displaying the replica. The size of the object O31 on the display is automatically adjusted. If weight information is included in the information about the structure of object O31, the weight of object O31 Depending on the situation, the weight of the bag may be reflected in the movement of the acquired object U13. If the object to be replicated and presented, such as a bag, is heavy, object U13 will bend its legs. They make movements to express that it is heavy, such as holding it with both hands. If the object is light, hold it in one hand and lift it high, or make a gesture that indicates its lightness.

[0175] <Embodiment 2> <System> FIG. 32 is a diagram illustrating an example of a configuration of an information processing system 1B according to the second embodiment. , parts corresponding to those in FIG. 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals. The information processing system 1B shown in FIG. 32 is added with a blockchain system 30. The blockchain system30 is composed of multiple terminals and uses a distributed ledger. Data management is performed. In the second embodiment, the distributed ledger of the blockchain system 30 includes, for example, a virtual Data managed by the inter-personal management server 10 and data on transactions in the virtual space are recorded in blocks. Each block is linked in a chain and managed on a distributed ledger.

[0176] The blockchain system30 uses crypto assets, which are an example of fungible tokens. Transactions within the virtual space are recorded and linked to the data of objects that exist in the virtual space. Any non-fungible tokens that are issued are also recorded. In addition, the blockchain system 30 records the activities of the user U in the virtual space. It is also used to record replication constraints. Replication constraints are tied to non-fungible tokens. This prevents malicious alteration of constraints. can be eliminated. Note that access to non-fungible tokens associated with replication restrictions is restricted to the object. This is realized through link information linked to the target O. Link information is stored as attribute data. There are cases where it exists integrally with the object O and cases where it is managed by the virtual space management server 10. do.

[0177] <Other embodiments> In the above embodiment, the object UO as the copy destination is linked to an individual user U. However, the linking destination can also be a corporation or a group of multiple users U. Groups include, for example, a circle, a family, etc. For example, the object UO of a group can be If object O is specified as the destination, the objects of multiple users U who make up the group will be The duplicated object (second object) may be reflected in the object UO. The number of copies is automatically set according to the number of destination groups, or if the group is the same, If you select [Image], the second object will be changed to a specific image that is set in the same group. For example, if the person is from the same company, the name can be automatically changed to the company logo.

[0178] Although the description has been omitted in the above embodiment, the object O (the first object) The gender, age, and other attributes of the user U to whom the object (1) is linked, and the duplicated object Depending on the gender, age and other attributes of the user U to whom the object (second object) is linked, The execution conditions of the constraints may be determined. For example, even if the content of the constraints is the same, the user to whom the object O, which is the source of the copy, is linked The shape of the object O after duplication may differ depending on the gender of U. For example, even if the content of the constraints is the same, the duplicated object O is linked to the user U. The object O after duplication may be different depending on the gender.

[0179] FIG. 33 shows the difference between the users U12 and U13 who instruct the duplication. 33 is a diagram illustrating an example in which O2 and O3 are displayed differently. Corresponding symbols are used. In the case of Figure 33, the logo of the original hat object O1 is the constraint object. , the change of shape is specified as a constraint. In Figure 33, the copy of the hat object O1 If the destination is linked to object UO12 of user U12, object O2 (second The logo of the object O1 has been changed to "B". Meanwhile, the replica of the hat object O1 If the destination is linked to object UO13 of user U13, object O3 (second The logo for the Nintendo 3DS (Object) has been changed to "D." In FIG. 33, the order of duplication is ignored.

[0180] The image of the object will be adjusted according to the environment set in the virtual space of the duplicated object. For example, if you are replicating an object underwater, you can change the Similarly, if you put an object in a fire, the object will The surface may be changed to a burnt image. The extent to which such a change will affect the image is described in the constraints. It's fine to be able to do this. In addition, the object with the constraint is controlled according to the state of the user who issues the replication instruction. For example, biometric information may be acquired from the user to determine whether the user is anxious (sweating, pulse rate, etc.). If the item is judged to be too fast, such as the handle of the bag you are trying to give as a gift becoming wet, This example is an example of the state of the user in the real space.

[0181] The corresponding token ID is deleted from the blockchain ledger where the restriction information is recorded. When a constraint is applied, the object associated with that constraint is changed to an object without the constraint. In this case, there are no restrictions on duplicating objects, and they can be copied freely. In addition, in conjunction with the deletion of the token ID, the most recent owner, those who were not allowed to duplicate in the past, Users will be notified by various means, such as messages, that they are now free to make copies. You can try to give it a try.

[0182] For objects for which duplication in virtual space is restricted, duplication of part or all of the duplication is prohibited. may be hidden from unauthorized users, i.e., the actual copy Whether you grant permission or not, only those who are allowed to copy can see the object. This will prevent users from accessing the site unnecessarily, reducing unnecessary access.

[0183] If you copy an object that has restrictions written on its non-fungible token, the act of copying A fee for cryptocurrency (which may include various costs related to conversion) is charged to the user. In that case, payments can be made automatically from the cryptocurrency wallet linked to the user. Before the withdrawal, a confirmation screen is displayed to the user to confirm the withdrawal. If the remaining cryptocurrency balance is insufficient, the duplication will be stopped and a notification will be sent. You may do so.

[0184] The configurations described in the above-described embodiments may be combined with each embodiment or used as a part of each embodiment. It may be possible to apply only the above to the configuration. The present invention may be configured as follows.

[0185] <Summary> The main features of the information processing device, the information processing method, and the program described in the embodiments are as follows: Shows.

[0186] (1) The information processing device has a processor, and the processor executes a first object in a virtual space. If part of the object contains one or more constraint objects with replication constraints, A second object generated based on the first object is displayed in accordance with the constraints. . This information processing device enables conditional duplication of objects that exist in virtual space. becomes.

[0187] (2) In the above-described information processing device, the first object is a constraint object and a constraint and a non-constrained object that is not marked with a 'constraint', and the second object is a constrained object. Includes alternative objects that are different from the constraints and non-constrained objects. In this case, the information processing device converts the constraint object of the first object into the substitute object. You can create a second object that has been modified to:

[0188] (3) In the above-mentioned information processing device, the processor receives a predetermined instruction from the user. If the second object is generated, the user is informed that a display based on the constraints will be performed before the second object is generated. Notify. This notification feature allows users to determine if the second object is different from the first object before replication occurs. You can see that an object is being created.

[0189] (4) In the information processing device described above, the processor and generating a second object based on a candidate selected by the user. Complete. This function allows the information processing device to generate a second object that reflects the user's selection. Cut.

[0190] (5) In the above-mentioned information processing device, a user who executes a predetermined instruction If the processor has the right to copy the second object containing the restricted object, Display the project. This function enables the information processing device to determine whether a user has the right to copy a restricted object. For users who do, you can create a second object that contains the constraint object. do.

[0191] (6) In the information processing device, the processor and notifies the second server of the request for permission or disallowance of duplication of the constraint object, and determines whether or not duplication is permitted. View the object. This function allows the information processing device to determine whether or not a user associated with a constraint can make a copy. It can generate a second object that reflects the original.

[0192] (7) In the above-mentioned information processing device, the first object includes a plurality of constraint objects. If included, the processor may map multiple constraint objects to multiple alternatives having a common image. Show the second object that you changed to an object. This function allows the information processing device to It is possible to generate a second object with a unified look using a common image.

[0193] (8) In the information processing device described above, a plurality of first objects are designated as targets for duplication. If so, the processor The constraint object is changed to multiple alternative objects with a common image. 2. Display the object. This function allows the information processing device to It is possible to generate multiple unified second objects using a common image.

[0194] (9) In the information processing device, the first object designated as the object to be duplicated is duplicated. If the first object is a replica, the processor Show the project. This function allows the information processing device to perform the following operations depending on the number of generations of the first object to be replicated. You can create a second object that matches the first one.

[0195] (10) In the information processing device described above, the processor In response to the request, the second object is displayed. This function allows the information processing device to perform the following operations depending on the number of times the first object, which is the source of duplication, is replicated. A second object can be generated.

[0196] (11) In the information processing device described above, the processor A duplication constraint is imposed on at least a portion of the first object or the second object. This function allows the information processing device to impose restrictions on duplication on specified objects. can be added.

[0197] (12) In the information processing device described above, the processor Constrained by non-fungible tokens managed on the blockchain tied to the project. Get. This function makes it possible to prevent fraud against restrictions on duplication.

[0198] (13) In the information processing device described above, the processor specifies a constraint and a first object. The second object is displayed based on a condition according to the selected user. With this function, the information processing device can display the second object generated by duplication as follows: The constraints and first object can be changed depending on the user specified.

[0199] (14) In the information processing device, the processor An object having similar features is selected as a candidate for the second object. This function allows the information processing device to select a second object that has similar features to the first object that is the source of the duplication. You can create objects.

[0200] (15) In the information processing device, the processor exists in the virtual space, the reception of an operation to duplicate the first object is permitted. This function allows the information processing device to determine whether the object operated by the user is the first object. If you are not in the virtual space, you can refuse to make copies.

[0201] (16) In the information processing device described above, the processor determines the status of the user who issues the copy instruction. The second object is determined based on the This function allows the information processing device to create a second object according to the state of the user who instructs the duplication. You can change the project.

[0202] (17) One or more objects in a virtual space that have restrictions on duplication attached to a part of the first object. If a constraint object is included, a processor is generated based on the first object. It is possible to provide an information processing method for performing processing on the display of a second object in accordance with a constraint.

[0203] (18) One or more objects in a virtual space that have restrictions on duplication attached to a part of the first object. If a constraint object is included, the processor generates a constraint object based on the first object. Execute a program to realize the function of executing the display of the second object according to the constraints. It can be realized. [Explanation of symbols]

[0204] 1A, 1B... Information processing system, 10... Virtual space management server, 20... User terminal, 30... Blockchain system, 101, 201... processor, 104, 204... auxiliary storage device Units 105, 209... communication interfaces 111, 212... storage units 112, 214... Transmitting and receiving unit 113, 213... generating unit 114... receiving unit 115... constraint processing unit 116... table Display control unit 205...input reception device 206...display 207...microphone 208...s Peeker, 211... operation specifying unit, 215... display processing unit

Claims

1. a processor, the processor comprising: Accepting a designation from a user that a first object placed in a virtual space is to be a target for duplication; the first object is composed of a plurality of partial objects, each of which is assigned attribute information indicating whether or not there is a restriction on duplication, and when a constrained object whose duplication is restricted and a non-constrained object whose duplication is not restricted are identified from among the plurality of partial objects by referring to the attribute information, a substitute object having at least a part of information different from that of the structure of the constrained object is generated or selected, and the virtual space in which a second object including the substitute object that replaces the constrained object and the non-constrained object is arranged is displayed on a display; Information processing device.

2. the processor receives, from a user, a designation that a first object placed in a virtual space is to be a target for duplication; a processor that generates or selects a substitute object having at least a part of information different from that of the constrained object's structure when the first object is composed of a plurality of partial objects, each of the plurality of partial objects being assigned attribute information indicating the presence or absence of a restriction on duplication, and a processor that identifies a constrained object whose duplication is restricted for the user and a non-constrained object whose duplication is not restricted by referring to the attribute information, and displays on a display the virtual space in which a second object including the non-constrained object and the substitute object that replaces the constrained object is arranged; Information processing methods.

3. Accepting a designation from a user that a first object placed in a virtual space is to be a target for duplication; the first object is composed of a plurality of partial objects, each of which is assigned attribute information indicating whether or not there is a restriction on duplication, and when a constrained object whose duplication is restricted and a non-constrained object whose duplication is not restricted are identified from among the plurality of partial objects by referring to the attribute information, a substitute object having at least a part of information different from that of the structure of the constrained object is generated or selected, and the virtual space in which a second object including the substitute object that replaces the constrained object and the non-constrained object is arranged is displayed on a display; A program that causes a processor to execute a process.

4. A server and a terminal are provided, The server receiving, from the user's terminal, a designation that a first object placed in the virtual space is to be a target for duplication; the first object is composed of a plurality of partial objects, each of which is assigned attribute information indicating whether or not there is a restriction on duplication, and when a constrained object whose duplication is restricted and a non-constrained object whose duplication is not restricted are identified from among the plurality of partial objects by referring to the attribute information, a substitute object having at least a part of information different from that of the structure of the constrained object is generated or selected, and the virtual space in which a second object including the substitute object that replaces the constrained object and the non-constrained object is arranged is displayed on the terminal; system.

Images