Virtual golf system and management device

Abstract

To provide a virtual golf system with which virtual golf courses can be selected with a higher degree of freedom.SOLUTION: A virtual golf system (S) includes: a course creation apparatus (2) which creates original course data representing a virtual golf course, on the basis of design information designated by a first user; and a management apparatus (3), which manages a course data group including the original course data, configured to project, on a screen, a virtual golf course represented by course data selected from the course data group by a second user, who is different from the first user, and provide the selected course data to a simulation apparatus (4) that reproduces, on the screen, trajectories of a golf ball according to a shot of the second user. The management apparatus (3) is configured to add advertisement data representing an advertisement to be placed in a place or on an item in the virtual golf course, to the original course data.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a virtual golf system that reproduces the trajectory of a golf ball according to a user's shot on a virtual golf course.

Background Art

[0002] In recent years, virtual golf has become popular, which enables users to experience playing on a virtual golf course that projects the trajectory of a golf ball corresponding to the user's shot onto a screen, as if they were actually playing on a golf course. Virtual golf is attractive because users can experience playing on golf courses around the world without going to an actual golf course, it is not affected by the weather because it can be played indoors, and it can be played at the user's own timing, making it enjoyable for beginners to advanced players.

[0003] Generally, virtual golf selects a virtual golf course to play from among the virtual golf courses registered in the system in advance. Therefore, problems such as the lack of registration of a course suitable for the user's preference and the low degree of freedom in selecting a virtual golf course have occurred. As a result, users tend to feel bored as the number of plays increases. In addition, virtual golf provides a realistic experience by using equipment such as high-performance simulation devices. Therefore, the installation cost of the device and the maintenance cost such as maintenance tend to be high. The need for a store property with a high ceiling and a large area to introduce a simulation device also contributes to the increase in the installation cost. As a result, the usage fee of virtual golf is set high, which has become an obstacle to its spread.

[0004] As a technology to solve the problem of not having a course that suits the user's preferences registered, or the lack of freedom in selecting virtual golf courses, for example, the technology described in Patent Document 1 is known. In the technology described in Patent Document 1, the user creates their own original virtual golf course by selecting parameters related to the characteristics of the virtual golf course. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2001-120704 [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0006] However, the aforementioned technology has a limitation: players can only play on courses that have been modified by the user (player) themselves from the pre-selectable course settings. This means that users have to frequently change the course settings themselves, which is inconvenient. Furthermore, the problem of virtual golf's relatively high usage fees hindering its widespread adoption remains unresolved.

[0007] This invention has been made in view of the above-mentioned problems, and its purpose is to realize a virtual golf system that can expand the degree of freedom in selecting virtual golf courses and contribute to reducing the usage fees for virtual golf. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] To solve the above problems, a virtual golf system according to one aspect of the present invention includes: a course creation device that creates original course data representing a virtual golf course based on design information specified by a first user; and a management device that manages a group of course data including the original course data, and provides the selected course data to a simulation device that projects a virtual golf course represented by course data selected from the group of course data by a second user different from the first user onto a screen, and reproduces the trajectory of a golf ball on the screen according to the shots of the second user, wherein the management device adds advertising data representing advertisements placed on locations or items within the virtual golf course to the original course data.

[0009] To solve the above problems, a management device according to one aspect of the present invention is a management device for managing a group of course data consisting of a plurality of course data representing a virtual golf course, which adds advertising data representing advertisements placed on locations or items within the virtual golf course to the course data, and provides the selected course data to a simulation device that projects the virtual golf course represented by the course data selected by the user from the group of course data onto a screen and reproduces the trajectory of a golf ball on the screen according to the user's shot. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] According to one aspect of the present invention, it is possible to expand the degree of freedom in selecting virtual golf courses and to contribute to reducing the usage fees for virtual golf. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0011] [Figure 1] This is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of the virtual golf system according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 2] This is a block diagram showing an example of the internal configuration of a management device included in the virtual golf system according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 3]This is a schematic diagram showing an example of a display image shown on a user terminal 1 equipped with the virtual golf system according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 4] This is a flowchart showing an example of processing related to additional function 1 of the virtual golf system according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 5] This is a flowchart showing an example of the processing related to the additional function 2 of the virtual golf system according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 6] This is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of the virtual golf system according to Embodiment 2. [Figure 7] This is a block diagram showing an example of the internal configuration of a management device included in the virtual golf system according to Embodiment 2. [Figure 8] This is a flowchart showing an example of the processing of the virtual golf system according to Embodiment 2. [Figure 9] This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of the use of the virtual golf system of the present invention. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0012] [Embodiment 1] One embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to Figures 1 to 6.

[0013] (Overview of Virtual Golf System S) A virtual golf system S according to one aspect of the present invention is a system characterized in that a second user Ub, different from the first user Ua, can play virtual golf on a virtual golf course created based on design information specified by the first user Ua. (Configuration of Virtual Golf System S) The configuration of the virtual golf system S will be explained with reference to Figure 1.

[0014] As shown in FIG. 1, the virtual golf system S includes a user terminal 1, a course creation device 2, a management device 3, and at least one simulation device 4. The user terminal 1 and the course creation device 2 are configured to be communicable with the management device 3 via a network. The simulation device 4 is configured to be communicable with the management device 3 via a network.

[0015] The user terminal 1 is possessed by a first user Ua who designs a virtual golf course that can be used in virtual golf. The user terminal 1 receives an input of design information including information related to at least one of the type of hole of the virtual golf course, the shape and nature of the hole, the shape and nature of the hazard, the shape and nature of the obstacle, and the shape and nature of the message board for displaying a string by the first user Ua. Further, the first user Ua may assign an arbitrary name to the virtual golf course designed by himself / herself. In this case, the first user Ua inputs information indicating the name to be assigned to the virtual golf course to the user terminal 1 in addition to the above design information.

[0016] Here, the "information on the type of hole" may be information selected by the first user Ua from options such as a short hole, a middle hole, or a long hole, or may be information indicating a hole with an arbitrarily set number of yards by the first user Ua. The "information on the shape and properties of the hole" may be information where the first user Ua selects each of the slope of the hole, the width or length of the fairway, the width of the rough, etc. from options, or may be information arbitrarily input by the first user Ua. The "information on the shape and properties of the hazard" may be information where the first user Ua selects a hazard from options such as a tree, a bunker, a pond, or a road, and arbitrarily sets the size and position. The "information on the shape and properties of the obstacle" may be information where the first user Ua selects an obstacle from options such as a flag, a color cone (registered trademark), etc., and arbitrarily sets the size and position. The "information on the shape and properties of the message board for displaying the string" may be information where the first user Ua arbitrarily sets the size and position of the message board and the message displayed on the message board. Specific examples of the message include "Happy Birthday" and the like. Note that the information included in the design information is not limited to the above. For example, information on the weather, information on the landscape, etc. may be included in the design information.

[0017] Also, the user terminal 1 transmits the above-described design information input by the first user Ua to the course creation device 2. In this embodiment, a desktop PC (Personal Computer) owned by the first user Ua is used as the user terminal 1, but it is not limited thereto. For example, a smartphone or a tablet terminal may be used as the user terminal 1.

[0018] The course creation device 2 creates original course data representing a virtual golf course based on the design information specified by the first user Ua received from the user terminal 1. The course creation device 2 also transmits the created original course data and information about the first user Ua to the management device 3. In this embodiment, the course creation device 2 is located outside the facility where virtual golf is played. For example, it is located in a data center. A device that can be used as the course creation device 2 is, for example, a workstation that constitutes a cloud server.

[0019] The management device 3 manages a group of course data, including the original course data received from the course creation device 2. Furthermore, based on signals received from the simulation device 4 (described later), the management device 3 extracts course data from the group and transmits it to the simulation device 4. In this embodiment, the management device 3, like the course creation device 2, is located outside the facility where virtual golf is played. Therefore, the course creation device 2 and the management device 3 may be located in the same place or in different locations. An example of a device that can be used as the management device 3 is a workstation that constitutes a cloud server.

[0020] The simulation device 4 is located in a facility where virtual golf can be played and is operated by a second user Ub who plays virtual golf. Here, it is assumed that the second user Ub is a different user from the first user Ua who designs the virtual golf course, although the first user Ua and the second user Ub may be the same person. The second user Ub inputs an operation to the simulation device 4 to select course data representing the virtual golf course to be played in virtual golf from the course data group stored in the management device 3. When the simulation device 4 receives the selection of course data from the second user Ub, it sends a signal to the management device 3 instructing it to transmit the selected course data. The simulation device 4 also projects the virtual golf course represented by the course data received from the management device 3 onto a screen, and reproduces and projects the trajectory of the golf ball corresponding to the second user Ub's shot onto the screen. In this embodiment, a known device located in a facility where virtual golf is played is used as the simulation device 4.

[0021] The network used to connect the above-mentioned devices can be arbitrarily selected. Available networks include, for example, PAN (Personal Area Network), LAN (Local Area Network), CAN (Campus Area Network), MAN (Metropolitan Area Network), WAN (Wide Area Network), GAN (Global Area Network), or internetworks that include these networks. The internetworks may be an intranet, an extranet, or the Internet.

[0022] Details of the devices constituting the virtual golf system S described above will be explained with reference to Figure 2. Figure 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the internal configuration of the devices provided by the virtual golf system S. In this embodiment, known devices are used as the user terminal 1 and the simulation device 4, so their explanation will be omitted below.

[0023] (Configuration of course creation device 2) As shown in Figure 2, the course creation device 2 includes a communication unit 21, a control unit 22, and a storage unit 23.

[0024] [Communications Section 21] The communication unit 21 communicates with the user terminal 1 and the management device 3 via the network. For example, the communication unit 21 receives design information specified by the first user Ua from the user terminal 1. The communication unit 21 also transmits original course data created based on the design information specified by the first user Ua, as well as information about the first user Ua, to the management device 3.

[0025] [Control Unit 22] The control unit 22 includes a CPU (Central Processing unit). The CPU executes a control program (not shown) stored in the memory unit 23, thereby creating the course. It controls each of the components it possesses. The control unit 22 also includes a course data creation unit 221.

[0026] The course data creation unit 221 creates course data representing a virtual golf course. For example, the course data creation unit 221 creates original course data representing a virtual golf course that reflects the design information specified by the first user Ua received from the user terminal 1.

[0027] [Storage section 23] The memory unit 23 stores various types of information. For example, the memory unit 23 stores design information received from the user terminal 1, information about the first user Ua, and original course data created based on the design information received from the user terminal 1. In addition, the memory unit 23 stores information related to all processes performed by the course creation device 2, not limited to those mentioned above.

[0028] In this embodiment, the course creation device 2 is configured to automatically create original course data based on design information received from the user terminal 1, but it is not limited to this configuration. Alternatively, the service provider (for example, the owner of the virtual golf system S) may input design information obtained from the first user Ua into the course creation device 2, and create original course data based on the input design information. In this case, the course creation device 2 must further include an input unit for receiving design information from the service provider and a display unit for displaying a preview image based on the input design information.

[0029] (Configuration of control device 3) The configuration of the control device 3 will be explained further with reference to Figure 2.

[0030] As shown in Figure 2, the management device 3 comprises a communication unit 31, a control unit 32, and a storage unit 33.

[0031] [Communications Section 31] The communication unit 31 communicates with the user terminal 1 and the course creation device 2 via the network, and also communicates with the simulation device 4 via the network. For example, the communication unit 31 receives original course data created based on the design information specified by the first user Ua, as well as information about the first user Ua, from the course creation device 2. The communication unit 31 also receives a signal from the simulation device 4 instructing it to transmit course data representing a virtual golf course selected by the second user Ub, and transmits the course data to the simulation device 4.

[0032] [Control Unit 32] The control unit 32 includes a CPU. The CPU controls each component of the management device 3 by executing a control program (not shown) stored in the storage unit 33. The control unit 32 also includes a database creation unit 321 and a data management unit 322.

[0033] The database creation unit 321 creates (updates) various databases. For example, the database creation unit 321 creates (updates) a course information database, which is a group of course data that includes data linking original course data received from the course creation device 2 with information about a first user Ua that specifies the design information on which the original course data is based. The course information database may also include course data representing virtual golf courses that mimic actual golf courses.

[0034] The data management unit 322 extracts information from various databases. For example, based on a signal received from the simulation device 4 instructing the transmission of course data representing a virtual golf course selected by a second user Ub, the data management unit 322 extracts course data from the course information database and transmits it to the simulation device 4. The data management unit 322 also performs data processing based on the data extracted from the various databases.

[0035] [Storage section 33] The memory unit 33 stores various types of information. For example, the memory unit 33 stores a course information database and information showing the history of virtual golf courses selected by the second user Ub. In addition, the memory unit 33 stores information related to all processes performed by the management device 3, not limited to the examples described above.

[0036] (Processing performed by the virtual golf system S) [Course creation process] This section describes the course creation process that the virtual golf system S performs to create a virtual golf course based on design information specified by the first user Ua.

[0037] First, user terminal 1 receives input of design information from a first user Ua, which includes information related to at least one of the following: the type of hole in a virtual golf course, the shape and properties of the hole, the shape and properties of the hazard, the shape and properties of the obstacle, and the shape and properties of the message board that displays text. Upon receiving the input, user terminal 1 transmits the design information to the course creation device 2.

[0038] The course data creation unit 221 of the course creation device 2 creates original course data representing a virtual golf course based on the received design information.

[0039] The database creation unit 321 of the management device 3 records information in the course information database that associates the original course data created by the course creation device 2 with the first user Ua who input the design information on which the original course data is based. This allows a second user Ub, who plays virtual golf, to select a virtual golf course created based on the design information specified by the first user Ua.

[0040] [Provision of virtual golf course] This section describes the process of providing a virtual golf course, which involves providing course data representing a virtual golf course to the simulation device 4 so that a second user Ub can play virtual golf.

[0041] First, the simulation device 4 accepts the selection of a virtual golf course by the second user Ub. At this time, the simulation device 4 sends a signal to the management device 3 instructing it to transmit course data representing the selected virtual golf course.

[0042] The data management unit 322 of the management device 3 extracts course data representing a selected virtual golf course from the course information database stored in the storage unit 33.

[0043] The communication unit 31 of the management device 3 transmits course data representing the virtual golf course selected by the second user Ub, extracted from the course information database, to the simulation device 4. This allows the second user Ub to play virtual golf on the virtual golf course of their choice.

[0044] (Example display) The display screen shown on the user terminal 1 when the first user Ua inputs design information will be explained with reference to Figure 3. Figure 3 is a diagram showing an example of a display image that is displayed on the display unit of the user terminal 1 when the first user Ua inputs design information.

[0045] In an example of the display image shown in Figure 3, the selection of obstacles to be placed on the virtual golf course and the virtual golf course reflecting the input design information are shown. For example, the first user Ua inputs information about the shape or properties of an obstacle into the user terminal 1 by dragging and dropping an obstacle from the selection of obstacles.

[0046] (Additional function 1) The virtual golf system S according to this embodiment may have a function to award points to the first user Ua when a virtual golf course created based on design information specified by the first user Ua is selected by a second user Ub who is different from the first user Ua. To perform this function, the database creation unit 321 of the management device 3 creates (updates) a point database consisting of data that associates the first user Ua with the points earned.

[0047] The points awarded here may be points that can be converted into cash and used to cover the cost of creating another virtual golf course or to get a discount on virtual golf usage fees, or they may be points that can be exchanged for golf equipment, etc.

[0048] [Point Granting Process] The process for awarding points by the virtual golf system S will be explained with reference to Figure 4. The point awarding process is performed in parallel with the process performed by the virtual golf system S for the second user Ub to play virtual golf. Figure 4 is a flowchart showing the process for awarding points by the virtual golf system S.

[0049] First, the simulation device 4 accepts the selection of a virtual golf course by the second user Ub (step S101: course selection). At this time, the simulation device 4 sends a signal to the management device 3 instructing it to transmit course data representing the selected virtual golf course.

[0050] The data management unit 322 of the management device 3 queries the course information database for course data representing a virtual golf course selected by the second user Ub, and identifies the first user Ua associated with that course data (Step S102: Identification of the first user Ua).

[0051] The data management unit 322 of the management device 3 determines whether the identified first user Ua is the same as the second user Ub (step S103).

[0052] If the identified first user Ua is not the same as the second user Ub (YES in step S103), the data management unit 322 of the management device 3 updates the point database (step S104: point allocation). If the identified first user Ua is the same as the second user Ub (NO in step S103), the process ends without updating the point database.

[0053] Furthermore, the first user Ua can check their own earned points. In this case, the first user Ua operates user terminal 1 and sends a signal to management device 3 requesting to view their earned points. Upon receiving this signal, management device 3 queries the points database for the first user Ua's earned points and sends information regarding the earned points to user terminal 1.

[0054] (Additional function 2) The virtual golf system S according to this embodiment may have a function to place advertisements on a virtual golf course created based on design information specified by a first user Ua. Furthermore, the virtual golf system S may have a function to pay the first user Ua a reward corresponding to the advertising fee of the advertisement when the virtual golf course on which the advertisement is placed is selected by a second user Ub who is different from the first user Ua. In order to perform these functions, the database creation unit 321 of the management device 3 creates an advertisement database consisting of data in which advertisement data representing advertisements placed on the virtual golf course and information indicating the advertising fee are associated, and a reward database in which the first user Ua is associated with the amount of reward to be paid.

[0055] The following describes the processes that the virtual golf system S performs in order to exhibit the functions described above. [Course creation process] This document describes the course creation process that the virtual golf system S performs to create virtual golf courses that can be advertised.

[0056] First, the first user Ua inputs design information into user terminal 1, which includes information indicating the location or item on which the advertisement will be placed on the virtual golf course. For example, the first user Ua can select a location for the advertisement from the green, fairway, on a tree, beside a bunker, rough, etc., or select an item for the advertisement from the airship, balloon, pin, flag, etc. In addition to information indicating the location or item on which the advertisement will be placed, the design information input by the first user Ua may also include information indicating the size of the advertisement.

[0057] The course data creation unit 221 of the course creation device 2 creates original course data representing a virtual golf course based on the input design information. Note that the original course data created here is missing the advertising data that would be displayed on the virtual golf course.

[0058] The database creation unit 321 of the management device 3 records information in the course information database that associates the created original course data with the first user Ua who input the design information on which the original course data is based. As a result, a second user Ub who plays virtual golf can select a virtual golf course that has advertisements displayed.

[0059] [Calculation process for compensation amount] The process by which the virtual golf system S calculates the amount of reward to pay to the first user Ua will be explained with reference to Figure 5. Figure 5 is a flowchart showing the flow of the reward calculation process performed by the virtual golf system S.

[0060] First, the simulation device 4 accepts the selection of a virtual golf course by the second user Ub (step S201: course selection). At this time, the simulation device 4 sends a signal to the management device 3 instructing it to transmit course data representing the selected virtual golf course.

[0061] The data management unit 322 of the management device 3 extracts course data representing the virtual golf course selected by the second user Ub from the course information database stored in the storage unit 33, and determines whether the first user Ua associated with the extracted course data is the same as the second user Ub (step S202: determination of whether the first user Ua ≠ the second user U). If the first user Ua = the second user Ub (NO in step S202), the process proceeds to step S207.

[0062] If the first user Ua ≠ the second user Ub (YES in step S202), Furthermore, the course data extracted in step S202 is used to determine whether or not advertising data should be added to the course data (step S203: determination of whether or not to display ads). If the extracted course data is not the data to which advertising data should be added (NO in step S203), the process proceeds to step S207.

[0063] If the extracted course data is data to which advertising data is to be added (YES in step S203), the data management unit 322 extracts advertising data indicating the advertisements to be displayed from the advertising database and adds it to the extracted course data (step S204: Adding advertising data).

[0064] The data management unit 322 calculates the reward amount based on the information indicating the advertising fee corresponding to the advertising data added in step S204 (step S205: calculation of reward amount).

[0065] The database creation unit 321 of the management device 3 updates the reward database stored in the storage unit 33 based on the reward amount calculated in step S205 (step S206: database update).

[0066] In step S204, the communication unit 31 of the management device 3 transmits the course data to the simulation device 4, to which the advertising data has been added (step S207: transmission of course data).

[0067] The virtual golf system S may have both of the above-described additional functions 1 and 2, or it may have only one of them. Furthermore, this additional function assumes, but is not limited to, that the owner of a virtual golf course where an advertisement is placed is the first user who designed the virtual golf course. For example, the first user Ua who designed the virtual golf course may transfer ownership of the virtual golf course to a third user. In this case, the course information database records the original course data created based on the design information specified by the first user Ua, information about the first user Ua, and information about the third user to whom the first user Ua transferred ownership, in association with each other. If compensation is generated, the compensation may be paid to the first user Ua or the third user based on the information recorded in the course information database. In addition, the first user Ua may grant usage rights to a fourth user. In this case, the course information database records the original course data created based on the design information specified by the first user Ua, information about the first user Ua, and information about the fourth user to whom the first user Ua has granted usage rights, in association with each other. If compensation is generated, the compensation may be paid to the first user Ua or the fourth user based on the information recorded in the course information database.

[0068] (Effects of the Virtual Golf System S) According to the virtual golf system S, it is possible to realize a virtual golf system that offers an expanded degree of freedom in selecting virtual golf courses.

[0069] In particular, by adopting a configuration in which a second user Ub, different from the first user Ua, can select and play on a virtual golf course created based on design information specified by the first user Ua, the degree of freedom in selecting a virtual golf course has been expanded.

[0070] Furthermore, the virtual golf system S, through its point-granting function and additional functions for displaying advertisements, facilitates the design of virtual golf courses by the first user Ua, and also has the effect of further expanding the freedom of selection of virtual golf courses. [Embodiment 2] Other embodiments of the present invention are described below. For the sake of clarity, components having the same function as those described in the above embodiments will be denoted by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions will not be repeated.

[0071] (Overview of the Virtual Golf System S1) The virtual golf system S1 according to this embodiment is a system characterized by placing advertisements on virtual golf courses that can be played in virtual golf.

[0072] (Configuration of the Virtual Golf System S1) The configuration of the virtual golf system S1 will be explained with reference to Figure 6. Figure 6 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of the virtual golf system S1.

[0073] The virtual golf system S1 includes a management device 3a and at least one simulation device 4, as shown in Figure 6. The management device 3a is configured to communicate with the simulation device 4 via a network.

[0074] The management device 3a manages a set of course data consisting of course data representing virtual golf courses playable in virtual golf. The management device 3a also extracts course data from the set of course data based on signals received from the simulation device 4 and transmits it to the simulation device 4. In this embodiment, the management device 3a is located outside the facility where virtual golf is played. An example of a device that can be used as the management device 3a is a workstation that constitutes a cloud server.

[0075] (Configuration of control device 3a) The configuration of the control device 3a will be explained with reference to Figure 7. Figure 7 is a block diagram showing an example of the internal configuration of the control device 3a.

[0076] As shown in Figure 7, the management device 3a includes an input unit 30a, a communication unit 31a, a control unit 32a, and a storage unit 33a.

[0077] [Input section 30a] The input unit 30a accepts input operations from other users Ua to the management device 3. For example, the input unit 30a accepts input from other users Ua, including course data representing a virtual golf course, advertising information, and information about other users Ua. Here, "advertising information" refers to information that includes information indicating the location or item on which the advertisement will be placed. For example, other users Ua input information indicating the location or item on which the advertisement will be placed to the input unit 30a by selecting a location from greens, fairways, trees, bunkers, roughs, etc., or by selecting an item from airships, balloons, pins, flags, etc., on which the advertisement will be placed. In addition to information indicating the location or item on which the advertisement will be placed, the advertising information input by other users Ua may also include information indicating the size of the advertisement, etc.

[0078] [Communication Department 31a] The communication unit 31a communicates with the simulation device 4 via the network. For example, the communication unit 31a receives a signal from the simulation device 4 instructing it to transmit course data representing a virtual golf course selected by user Ub who is playing virtual golf, and transmits the course data to the simulation device 4.

[0079] [Control Unit 32a] The control unit 32a includes a CPU. The CPU controls each component of the management device 3a by executing a control program (not shown) stored in the storage unit 33a. The control unit 32a also includes a database creation unit 321a and a data management unit 322a.

[0080] The database creation unit 321a creates (updates) various databases. For example, the database creation unit 321a creates (updates) a course information database, which is a group of course data consisting of course data representing virtual golf courses, information about other users Ua, and advertising information entered by other users Ua; an advertising database, which consists of advertising data indicating advertisements to be placed on virtual golf courses and data associated with advertising fees; and a reward database, which associates other users Ua with the amount of compensation to be paid. The course data included in the course information database may be course data representing virtual golf courses that imitate actual golf courses, or course data representing fictional golf courses. In this embodiment, other users Ua are assumed to be creators of course data and users who place advertisements on existing course data (for example, service providers). Examples of service providers include manufacturers of equipment used for virtual golf.

[0081] The data management unit 322a extracts information from various databases. For example, based on a signal received from the simulation device 4 instructing the transmission of course data representing a virtual golf course selected by user Ub, the data management unit 322a extracts course data and advertising information from the course information database, and extracts advertising data and information on advertising fees from the advertising database. The data management unit 322a also performs data processing based on the extracted data. For example, the data management unit 322a performs processes such as adding advertising data to the course data based on the advertising information, and calculating the reward amount based on information indicating advertising fees.

[0082] [Storage unit 33a] The memory unit 33a stores various types of information. For example, the memory unit 33a stores various databases such as a course information database, an advertising database, and a reward database. In addition, the memory unit 33a stores information related to all processes performed by the management device 3a, not limited to the examples mentioned above.

[0083] (Processing performed by the virtual golf system S1) The process by which the virtual golf system S1 calculates the amount of compensation to be paid to the owner of the course data representing the virtual golf course will be described with reference to Figure 8. Figure 8 is a flowchart showing the flow of the compensation calculation process performed by the virtual golf system S1.

[0084] [Reward calculation process] First, the simulation device 4 accepts the selection of a virtual golf course by user Ub (step S301: course selection). At this time, the simulation device 4 sends a signal to the management device 3a instructing it to transmit course data representing the selected virtual golf course.

[0085] The data management unit 322a of the management device 3a extracts course data representing the virtual golf course selected by user Ub and advertising information from the course information database stored in the storage unit 33a, and adds advertising data extracted from the advertising database based on the advertising information (step S302: Adding advertising data).

[0086] The data management unit 322a calculates the reward amount based on the information indicating the advertising fee corresponding to the advertising data added in step S402 (step S303: calculation of reward amount).

[0087] The database creation unit 321a of the management device 3a updates the reward database stored in the storage unit 33a based on the reward amount calculated in step S403 (step S304: database update).

[0088] The communication unit 31 of the management device 3a transmits the course data extracted in step S402 to the simulation device 4 (step S305: transmission of course data).

[0089] (Effects of the Virtual Golf System S1) The Virtual Golf System S1 makes it possible to create a virtual golf system that contributes to reducing the usage fees for virtual golf.

[0090] In particular, by placing advertisements on virtual golf courses and adopting a system where service providers (other users) are compensated based on advertising fees, revenue beyond virtual golf usage fees can be expected, which can ultimately contribute to reducing virtual golf usage fees. Furthermore, a reduction in usage fees may lead to even greater popularity of virtual golf.

[0091] [Examples of using a virtual golf system] An example of using the virtual golf system will be explained with reference to Figure 9. Figure 9 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the business model of the virtual golf system S.

[0092] As shown in Figure 9, the virtual golf system S can be applied to a business model in which advertisements are placed on a virtual golf course created based on design information specified by a first user Ua, and advertising fees are paid from advertisers to the first user Ua and the service provider (e.g., the owner of the virtual golf system) based on the number of times the course is selected by user Ub.

[0093] Furthermore, although not illustrated, the virtual golf system S1 can be applied to a business model in which advertisers pay advertising fees to the service provider (e.g., the owner of the virtual golf system) who owns the course, based on the number of times the virtual golf course on which the advertisement is displayed is selected by user Ub. [Examples of implementation using software] The functions of the course creation device 2, the management device 3, and the management device 3a (hereinafter referred to as "devices") are programs that cause a computer to function as the device, and these programs can be realized by programs that cause a computer to function as each control block of the device (particularly the parts included in the control units 22, 32, and 32a).

[0094] In this case, the device includes a computer having at least one control device (e.g., a processor) and at least one storage device (e.g., memory) as hardware for executing the program. By executing the program using this control device and storage device, the functions described in each of the embodiments are realized.

[0095] The above program may be recorded on one or more computer-readable recording media, not temporary ones. These recording media may or may not be provided by the above device. In the latter case, the program may be supplied to the above device via any wired or wireless transmission medium.

[0096] Furthermore, some or all of the functions of each of the above control blocks can also be realized by logic circuits. For example, an integrated circuit in which logic circuits functioning as each of the above control blocks are formed is also included in the scope of the present invention. In addition, it is also possible to realize the functions of each of the above control blocks by, for example, a quantum computer.

[0097] [Additional Notes] The present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and various modifications are possible within the scope of the claims. Embodiments obtained by appropriately combining the technical means disclosed in different embodiments are also included in the technical scope of the present invention.

[0098] 〔summary〕 The virtual golf system according to Embodiment 1 includes a course creation device that creates original course data representing a virtual golf course based on design information specified by a first user; a management device that manages a group of course data including the original course data; and a simulation device that projects a virtual golf course represented by course data selected from the group of course data by a second user different from the first user onto a screen, and reproduces the trajectory of a golf ball on the screen according to the second user's shot.

[0099] According to the above configuration, a first user can create original course data based on design information specified by the first user, and a second user, different from the first user, can play the virtual golf course represented by that course data. This expands the degree of freedom in selecting virtual golf courses that can be played in the virtual golf system.

[0100] The virtual golf system according to embodiment 2 of this embodiment, in embodiment 1, includes information relating to at least one of the following: the type of hole, the shape and characteristics of the hole, the shape and characteristics of the hazard, and the shape and characteristics of the obstacle.

[0101] With the above configuration, the type of hole, the shape and properties of the hole, the shape and properties of the hazard, and the shape and properties of the obstacles can be freely specified, allowing for a more accurate reproduction of the course that the first user wants to design.

[0102] In the virtual golf system according to embodiment 3 of this embodiment, in embodiment 1 or 2 above, the management device adds advertising data representing advertisements to be placed on the virtual golf course to the original course data.

[0103] According to the above configuration, advertisements can be placed on a virtual golf course designed by the first user.

[0104] In the virtual golf system according to embodiment 4 of this embodiment, in embodiment 3, when the original course data including advertising data is selected by the second user, the management device calculates a remuneration amount corresponding to the advertising fee as the remuneration amount to be paid to the first user or the third user to whom ownership has been transferred by the first user.

[0105] According to the above configuration, the first user can earn income when the virtual golf course they designed and on which they display advertisements is selected by the second user.

[0106] In the virtual golf system according to embodiment 5 of this embodiment, in embodiment 3 or 4, the design information includes information indicating the location where the advertisement is placed.

[0107] According to the above configuration, the first user can place advertisements at any location on the virtual golf course. This allows for a high degree of flexibility in ad placement, as ads can be positioned to be prominent or in locations that do not interfere with gameplay.

[0108] In the virtual golf system according to embodiment 6 of this embodiment, in any one of embodiments 1 to 5 above, the management device awards points to the first user when the original course data is selected by the second user.

[0109] According to the above configuration, the first user can earn points usable in the virtual golf system each time a virtual golf course designed by them is selected by the second user.

[0110] The virtual golf system according to embodiment 7 of this embodiment is a management device for managing a group of course data consisting of a plurality of course data representing a virtual golf course, and includes a management device for adding advertising data indicating advertisements to be placed on the virtual golf course to the course data, The system includes a simulation device that projects a virtual golf course represented by course data selected by a second user from the course data set onto a screen, and reproduces the trajectory of a golf ball on the screen according to the user's shot.

[0111] According to the above configuration, advertisements can be placed on virtual golf courses that can be used in virtual golf. This makes it possible to promote the sales of advertised products.

[0112] In the virtual golf system according to embodiment 8 of this embodiment, in embodiment 7, the management device adds advertising data to the course data based on advertising information specified by a user other than the user.

[0113] With the above configuration, other users can freely specify where ads are displayed. Therefore, it is possible to adjust ad placement with a high degree of flexibility, such as displaying ads in courses where you want them to appear and not displaying them in courses where you don't.

[0114] In the virtual golf system according to aspect 9 of this embodiment, in aspect 8, the advertising information includes information indicating the location or item on which the advertisement is to be placed in the virtual golf course.

[0115] With the above configuration, other users can specify where to place the advertisement or the items on which the advertisement will be placed. This allows for creative placement of the advertisement, such as positioning it in a location easily visible to users, thereby promoting the sale of advertised products.

[0116] In the virtual golf system according to embodiment 10 of this embodiment, in embodiment 8 or 9 above, when the course data including advertising data is selected by the user, the management device calculates a reward amount corresponding to the advertising fee as the reward amount to be paid to the other user.

[0117] According to the above configuration, revenue can be generated when a virtual golf course is selected by a user. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0118] 1 User terminal 2. Course creation device 3, 3a Management device 4. Simulation device

Claims

1. A virtual golf system that projects a virtual golf course onto a screen and operates in conjunction with a simulation device that reproduces the trajectory of a golf ball on the screen according to the player's shot, A course creation device that creates original course data representing a virtual golf course based on design information specified by the user, A management device comprising a group of course data representing multiple course data representing a virtual golf course, which manages the group of course data including the original course data, adds advertising data representing advertisements placed on locations or items within the virtual golf course to the original course data, and provides the simulation device with the course data selected by the player from the group of course data. A virtual golf system characterized by the following features.

2. The design information includes information relating to at least one of the following: the type of hole, the shape and properties of the hole, the shape and properties of the hazard, the shape and properties of the obstacle, and the shape and properties of the message board for displaying text. The virtual golf system according to feature 1.

3. When the original course data, including advertising data, is selected by the player in the simulation device, the management device calculates a reward amount corresponding to the advertising fee, which is to be paid to the user, another user to whom ownership has been transferred by the user, or another user to whom the user has been granted the right to use the data. The virtual golf system according to feature 1.

4. The design information includes information indicating the location where the advertisement will be placed. The virtual golf system according to feature 1.

5. The management device awards points to the user when the original course data is selected by the player in the simulation device. The virtual golf system according to feature 1.

6. A management device that operates in conjunction with a simulation device that projects a virtual golf course onto a screen and reproduces the trajectory of a golf ball on the screen according to a player's shot, The system manages a group of course data consisting of multiple course data representing a virtual golf course, adds advertising data representing advertisements placed at locations or on items within the virtual golf course to the course data, and provides the simulation device with the course data selected by the player from the group of course data. A management device characterized by the following features.

7. The aforementioned course data is added based on advertising information specified by a user other than the aforementioned player. The control device according to feature 6.

8. The aforementioned advertising information includes information indicating the location or item on which the advertisement will be placed within the virtual golf course. The control device according to feature 7.

9. When the course data, including advertising data, is selected by the player in the simulation device, the reward amount to be paid to the user is calculated based on the advertising fee. The control device according to feature 7.

10. A simulation device that projects a virtual golf course onto a screen and reproduces the trajectory of a golf ball on the screen according to the player's shot, A management device that manages a group of course data consisting of multiple course data representing a virtual golf course, adds advertising data representing advertisements placed on locations or items within the virtual golf course to the course data, and provides the simulation device with the course data selected by the player from the group of course data. A virtual golf system characterized by the following features.

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