Vehicle customization support systems and vehicle customization support programs

Abstract

To provide a vehicle custom support system capable of more accurately reproducing not only the appearance of the vehicle equipped with custom parts but also the status of custom parts protruding or denting from the vehicle body, and virtually checking while approaching only by the required distance from any direction, and a vehicle custom support program.SOLUTION: A user terminal has 3D-based vehicle image acquisition means, 3D custom vehicle image acquisition means, and 3D image processing means. A server includes a storage unit that stores 3D vehicle image data including vehicle mounting location information and 3D part image data including part mounting location information. The server has 3D-based vehicle images providing means and 3D custom vehicle images providing means to virtually reproduce the amount of protrusion or depression of a replaced or added custom part or the amount of deformation of a custom part in 3D dimensions based on the vehicle mounting location information and part mounting location information.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 8

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a vehicle customization support system and a vehicle customization support program that display a virtual appearance of a customized vehicle obtained by replacing or adding custom parts to a part of a vehicle on a user terminal connected to a server via a network.

Background Art

[0002] When considering purchasing custom parts for a car, whether going to an auto supply store or using online shopping, since the act of trying on like when buying clothes is not possible, it is not possible to confirm what appearance it will have after actually installing it on one's own car. For those who want to customize their beloved cars, just like when buying their own clothes, it is important how the vehicle as a whole looks when installing the product they are interested in, and they want to confirm what appearance it will have by looking at it from various directions, looking at the whole from a distance, or getting close to look at the details, and placing an order after being convinced, which is natural.

[0003] For example, in Patent Document 1, a technique related to online sales of wheels is disclosed. Specifically, on the screen of the terminal of a user who wishes to purchase a wheel, an overall image of the selected vehicle (one's own car) seen from the side is displayed, and a plurality of wheel candidates suitable for the vehicle are displayed without overlapping them on the overall image of the vehicle. When the user selects and clicks on a wheel that they like on the screen, only the image of the wheel part in the overall image of the side of the vehicle is changed, and it is displayed as if the selected wheel is installed on one's own car.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] However, Patent Document 1 only displays the exterior view of the side of the vehicle as an overall image, which has the problem that the vehicle cannot be viewed in three dimensions from various directions. For example, it is not possible to check how the vehicle looks when viewed from the front right (or left) or from diagonally above. Therefore, depending on the wheel offset, the wheels and tires may protrude or be recessed relative to the vehicle body, but such situations cannot be accurately reproduced. If the wheels and tires are recessed relative to the vehicle body, it looks worse than expected, and if the amount of tire protrusion relative to the vehicle body exceeds the regulatory limit, the vehicle will not pass inspection. Therefore, when customizing wheels and tires, it is preferable to be able to accurately reproduce not only the appearance from the side of the vehicle, but also the amount of protrusion and recession relative to the vehicle body, but this cannot be achieved in Patent Document 1.

[0006] Furthermore, Patent Document 1 merely displays the side of a vehicle in an image of a predetermined resolution. Therefore, even when enlarged, the image only becomes blurry, making it impossible to confirm the details of the design. Due to these problems, when a product is delivered and installed on a customer's car after ordering, the actual appearance may differ from what was imagined. This situation can occur not only with wheels but also with other custom parts, such as aero parts and radiator grilles. The buyer's options are to return the product or compromise and use it as is, but this is undesirable for both the buyer and the seller. There is a need to more accurately reproduce the state of a vehicle with custom parts installed using a virtual 3D image.

[0007] This invention was conceived in view of the above points, and aims to provide a vehicle customization support system and vehicle customization support program that can more accurately reproduce not only the appearance of a vehicle fitted with custom parts, but also the degree to which the custom parts protrude from the vehicle body or are recessed, and that can virtually check them by approaching them from any direction and at the necessary distance. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] To solve the above problems, the first invention is a vehicle customization support system that displays the virtual appearance of a customized vehicle, which has been customized by replacing or adding custom parts to a part of the vehicle, on a user terminal connected to a server via a network. The user terminal receives vehicle model information and body color information that can identify the appearance of the vehicle, then transmits base vehicle information including the vehicle model information and the body color information to the server, receives custom screen information from the server that includes a 3D vehicle image based on the vehicle model information and the body color information, and custom parts information related to a list of custom parts that can be installed on the vehicle, and displays a custom screen including the 3D vehicle image and the custom parts information based on the received custom screen information, and transmits custom request information including part identification information that can identify the custom parts corresponding to the selected items to the server, after one or more items have been selected from the custom parts information on the custom screen, and the 3D base vehicle image acquisition means The system includes: a 3D custom vehicle image acquisition means that receives custom screen information from the server, which includes a customized 3D vehicle image in which a portion of the 3D vehicle image has been replaced with 3D part images of the custom parts, or a customized 3D vehicle image in which the 3D part images have been added to the 3D vehicle image, and the custom part information, and displays a custom screen including the customized 3D vehicle image and the custom part information based on the received custom screen information; and a 3D image processing means that, upon receiving a 3D image operation instruction including an instruction to change the orientation and size of the 3D vehicle image on the custom screen displayed by the 3D base vehicle image acquisition means or the 3D custom vehicle image acquisition means, performs image operations including changing the orientation and size of the 3D vehicle image in response to the 3D image operation instruction.The server has a storage device that stores 3D vehicle image data of the vehicle corresponding to the vehicle type information, which includes the custom part information and vehicle side mounting position information, which is information related to the vehicle side mounting position where the custom part is attached; 3D part image data of the custom part corresponding to the part identification information, which includes part side mounting position information, which is information related to the part side mounting position where it is attached to the vehicle side mounting position, the vehicle side mounting position corresponding to the part side mounting position, and replacement / addition information indicating whether the custom part is of the replacement type or the addition type; and when the server receives the base vehicle information from the user terminal, it extracts the 3D vehicle image data corresponding to the vehicle type information contained in the received base vehicle information, and creates the 3D vehicle image based on the extracted 3D vehicle image data and the body color information contained in the base vehicle information. The system includes: a 3D base vehicle image providing means that creates custom screen information including the created 3D vehicle image and the custom part information contained in the extracted 3D vehicle image data and transmits it to the user terminal; and a 3D custom vehicle image providing means that, upon receiving the custom request information from the user terminal, extracts the 3D part image data corresponding to the part identification information contained in the received custom request information, and based on the 3D vehicle image data and the 3D part image data, creates a customized 3D vehicle image by replacing a part of the 3D vehicle image included in the custom screen information transmitted to the user terminal with the 3D part image, or creates a customized 3D vehicle image by adding the 3D part image to the 3D vehicle image included in the custom screen information transmitted to the user terminal, and creates custom screen information including the created customized 3D vehicle image and the custom part information and transmits it to the user terminal.The server is a vehicle customization support system that, when creating the customized 3D vehicle image using the 3D custom vehicle image providing means, virtually reproduces in three dimensions the amount of protrusion from the vehicle body, the amount of recess from the vehicle body, or the amount of deformation of the custom part from the vehicle body, based on the vehicle-side mounting position information and the part-side mounting position information, in the customized 3D vehicle image.

[0009] Next, the second invention is a vehicle customization support system according to the first invention, wherein the custom parts are wheels and tires, and the custom parts information on the custom screen displayed on the user terminal includes one or more of the wheels and one or more of the tires. The 3D vehicle image data includes information relating to the mounting surface of the hub to which the wheel is attached and the central axis of the hub as vehicle-side mounting position information for the wheel. The 3D part image data corresponding to each of the wheels includes the mounting surface of the wheel attached to the mounting surface of the hub and the central axis of the wheel as part-side mounting position information, and replacement information indicating the replacement is included as replacement additional information. The user terminal, after selecting the wheels and tires from the custom parts information on the custom screen displayed by the 3D custom vehicle image acquisition means, transmits the custom request information to the server, which includes the respective part identification information that allows the selection of the wheels and tires. The user terminal receives the custom screen information from the server, which includes the customized 3D vehicle image and the custom parts information, in which the wheels and tires in the 3D vehicle image have been replaced with the selected wheels and tires. Based on the received custom screen information, the user terminal displays the customized 3D vehicle image and the custom parts information.The server, when the 3D custom vehicle image providing means includes part identification information corresponding to the wheel and part identification information corresponding to the tire in the custom request information, extracts the 3D part image data of the wheel and tire corresponding to the respective part identification information to create a 3D part image of the wheel with tire. When replacing the 3D part image of the wheel with tire in the original 3D vehicle image with the created 3D part image of the wheel with tire, the server replaces the wheel so that the mounting surface and central axis of the wheel in the created 3D part image of the wheel with tire overlap with the mounting surface and central axis of the hub in the 3D vehicle image, thereby creating a customized 3D vehicle image that reproduces not only the virtual appearance of the wheel with tire but also the amount of protrusion or recess of the wheel with tire relative to the vehicle body in the 3D vehicle image.

[0010] Next, the third invention is a vehicle customization support system according to the first invention, wherein the custom parts are stickers that are affixed to a desired position on the vehicle body. The custom parts information on the custom screen displayed on the user terminal includes one or more of the stickers. The 3D vehicle image data includes information relating to the curved surface of the entire vehicle body to which the sticker is affixed, as vehicle-side mounting position information for the sticker. The 3D part image data corresponding to each of the stickers includes information relating to the mounting surface to which it is affixed to the vehicle body, as part-side mounting position information, and includes additional information indicating the addition as replacement / additional information. The user terminal, using the 3D custom vehicle image acquisition means, selects a sticker from the custom parts information on the displayed custom screen and selects the desired position on the vehicle body in the 3D vehicle image. After this, it transmits the custom request information, including the part identification information that identifies the selected sticker and the desired position, to the server. The user terminal receives the customized 3D vehicle image, which has the selected sticker added to the desired position on the vehicle body in the 3D vehicle image, and the customized screen information, which includes the customized 3D vehicle image and the custom parts information, from the server. Based on the received customized screen information, the user terminal displays the customized 3D vehicle image and the customized screen, which includes the customized parts information. The server is a vehicle customization support system that, when the customization request information includes the part identification information and the desired position corresponding to the sticker, extracts the 3D part image data of the sticker corresponding to the part identification information to create a 3D part image of the sticker, and when adding the created 3D part image of the sticker to the 3D vehicle image before addition, arranges the created 3D part image of the sticker to follow the curved surface of the desired position on the vehicle body, thereby creating a customized 3D vehicle image that reproduces not only the virtual appearance of the sticker but also the amount of deformation of the sticker relative to the vehicle body in the 3D vehicle image.

[0011] Next, the fourth invention is a vehicle customization support system according to the first invention, wherein the custom parts are replacement exterior parts that replace a part of the exterior of the vehicle body that is to be replaced. The custom parts information on the custom screen displayed on the user terminal includes one or more of the replacement exterior parts. The 3D vehicle image data includes information related to the vehicle side mounting position, which is the mounting position on the vehicle body to which the part to be replaced is attached, as vehicle side mounting position information for the replacement exterior parts. The 3D part image data corresponding to each of the replacement exterior parts includes information related to the part side mounting position, which is the mounting position of the replacement exterior part attached to the vehicle side mounting position, as part side mounting position information, and includes replacement information indicating the replacement as replacement additional information. The user terminal, after selecting the replacement exterior part from the custom parts information on the custom screen displayed by the 3D custom vehicle image acquisition means, transmits the custom request information, which includes the part identification information that can identify the selected replacement exterior part, to the server. The user terminal receives the custom screen information from the server, which includes the customized 3D vehicle image in which the replacement target part in the 3D vehicle image has been replaced with the selected replacement exterior part, and the custom parts information. Based on the received custom screen information, the user terminal displays the customized 3D vehicle image and the custom parts information.The server, using the 3D custom vehicle image providing means, extracts 3D component image data of the replacement exterior part corresponding to the part identification information when the part identification information corresponding to the replacement exterior part is included in the custom request information, and creates a 3D component image of the replacement exterior part. When replacing the 3D component image of the part to be replaced in the 3D vehicle image before replacement with the created 3D component image of the replacement exterior part, the replacement is performed so that the mounting position on the part side in the created 3D component image of the replacement exterior part and the mounting position on the vehicle side relative to the part to be replaced in the 3D vehicle image overlap, thereby creating a customized 3D vehicle image that reproduces not only the virtual appearance of the replacement exterior part but also the amount of protrusion or recess of the replacement exterior part relative to the vehicle body in the 3D vehicle image.

[0012] Next, the fifth invention is a vehicle customization support system according to the first invention, wherein the custom parts are additional exterior parts attached to predetermined locations on the vehicle body. The custom parts information on the custom screen displayed on the user terminal includes one or more of the additional exterior parts. The 3D vehicle image data includes information related to the vehicle-side mounting position, which is the mounting position on the vehicle body to which the additional exterior parts are attached, as vehicle-side mounting position information for the additional exterior parts. The 3D part image data corresponding to each of the additional exterior parts includes information related to the part-side mounting position, which is the mounting position of the additional exterior part attached to the vehicle-side mounting position, as part-side mounting position information, and includes additional information indicating the addition as replacement additional information. The user terminal, after selecting the additional exterior parts from the custom parts information on the custom screen displayed by the 3D custom vehicle image acquisition means, transmits the custom request information, which includes the part identification information that can identify the selected additional exterior parts, to the server. The user terminal receives the customized 3D vehicle image, which includes the selected additional exterior parts added to a predetermined position on the vehicle body in the 3D vehicle image, and the customized screen information, which includes the customized 3D vehicle image and the custom parts information, from the server. Based on the received customized screen information, the user terminal displays the customized 3D vehicle image and the customized screen, which includes the customized parts information. The server is a vehicle customization support system that, when the part identification information corresponding to the additional exterior part is included in the custom request information, extracts the 3D part image data of the additional exterior part corresponding to the part identification information and creates a 3D part image of the additional exterior part, and when adding the created 3D part image of the additional exterior part to the 3D vehicle image before addition, matches the mounting position on the part side in the created 3D part image of the additional exterior part with the mounting position on the vehicle side in the 3D vehicle image, thereby creating a customized 3D vehicle image that reproduces not only the virtual appearance of the additional exterior part but also the amount of protrusion or recess of the additional exterior part relative to the vehicle body in the 3D vehicle image.

[0013] Next, the sixth invention is a vehicle customization support system according to the first, second, fourth, or fifth invention, wherein the server, when creating the customized 3D vehicle image using the 3D custom vehicle image providing means, creates the customized 3D vehicle image including warning information if the replaced or added custom parts protrude from the vehicle body and the amount of protrusion exceeds the regulatory value.

[0014] Next, the seventh invention is a vehicle customization support program that displays a virtual appearance of a customized vehicle, which has been customized by replacing or adding custom parts to a part of the vehicle, on a user terminal connected to a server via a network. The vehicle customization support program includes a terminal program that controls the operation of the user terminal and a server program that controls the operation of the server. The server has a storage device that stores 3D vehicle image data including 3D image data of the vehicle corresponding to vehicle type information that can identify the appearance of the vehicle and relating to a list of custom parts that can be installed on the vehicle, and vehicle side mounting position information which is information relating to a vehicle side mounting position which is the position where the custom parts to be replaced or added are installed, and 3D part image data including 3D image data of the custom parts corresponding to part identification information that can identify the custom parts and relating to a part side mounting position which is the position where the parts are installed at the vehicle side mounting position, the vehicle side mounting position corresponding to the part side mounting position, and replacement / addition information indicating whether the custom parts are of the type to be replaced or added.The terminal program, after the user terminal receives the vehicle model information and body color information, transmits base vehicle information including the vehicle model information and body color information to the server, receives custom screen information from the server including a 3D vehicle image based on the vehicle model information and body color information and custom parts information, and displays a custom screen including the 3D vehicle image and custom parts information based on the received custom screen information, 3D base vehicle image acquisition means, after one or more items are selected from the custom parts information on the custom screen, transmits custom request information including the part identification information corresponding to the selected items to the server, and a part of the 3D vehicle image is a 3D part image of the custom parts The 3D custom vehicle image acquisition means receives from the server the customized 3D vehicle image after it has been replaced with a statue, or the customized 3D vehicle image after the 3D part images have been added to the 3D vehicle image, and the custom part information, and displays the custom screen including the customized 3D vehicle image and the custom part information based on the received custom screen information. The 3D custom vehicle image acquisition means or the 3D base vehicle image acquisition means or the 3D custom vehicle image acquisition means functions as a 3D image processing means that, upon receiving a 3D image operation instruction including an instruction to change the orientation and size of the 3D vehicle image on the custom screen displayed by the 3D custom vehicle image acquisition means, performs image operations including changing the orientation and size of the 3D vehicle image in response to the 3D image operation instruction.The server program, upon receiving the base vehicle information from the user terminal, extracts the 3D vehicle image data corresponding to the vehicle model information contained in the received base vehicle information, creates the 3D vehicle image based on the extracted 3D vehicle image data and the body color information contained in the base vehicle information, creates the custom screen information including the created 3D vehicle image and the custom parts information contained in the extracted 3D vehicle image data, and transmits it to the user terminal. 3D base vehicle image providing means, upon receiving the custom request information from the user terminal, includes the received custom request information The server program functions as a 3D custom vehicle image providing means, which extracts 3D part image data corresponding to the part identification information contained therein, and based on the 3D vehicle image data and the 3D part image data, creates a customized 3D vehicle image by replacing a part of the 3D vehicle image included in the custom screen information sent to the user terminal with the 3D part image, or creates a customized 3D vehicle image by adding the 3D part image to the 3D vehicle image included in the custom screen information sent to the user terminal, creates the customized screen information including the created customized 3D vehicle image and the custom part information, and sends it to the user terminal. The server program is a vehicle customization support program that, when the server functions as a 3D custom vehicle image providing means to create the customized 3D vehicle image, virtually reproduces in three dimensions the amount of protrusion from the vehicle body, the amount of indentation from the vehicle body, or the amount of deformation of the custom part from the vehicle body of the customized part that has been replaced or added based on the vehicle side mounting position information and the part side mounting position information in the customized 3D vehicle image. [Effects of the Invention]

[0015] According to the first invention, the server creates a customized 3D vehicle image in response to custom request information received from the user terminal. The customized 3D vehicle image is created based on 3D image data of the vehicle and 3D image data of the custom parts, and by having mounting position information on the vehicle side and mounting position information on the parts side, it is possible to accurately position the custom parts relative to the vehicle body. As a result, the amount of protrusion of the custom parts relative to the vehicle body, the amount of indentation relative to the vehicle body, or the amount of deformation of the custom parts relative to the vehicle body is virtually reproduced in 3D. Furthermore, the user terminal receives 3D image manipulation instructions for the customized 3D vehicle image received from the server, and performs image manipulation, including changing the orientation and size of the 3D vehicle image, in response to the 3D image manipulation instructions. With a vehicle customization support system consisting of such a server and user terminal, not only the appearance of the vehicle with the custom parts attached can be reproduced more accurately, but also the protrusion and indentation state of the custom parts from the vehicle body, and it is possible to virtually check them by approaching them from any direction and at the necessary distance.

[0016] According to the second invention, in the customized 3D vehicle image, the amount of protrusion or recess of the wheel with tire relative to the vehicle body is virtually reproduced in three dimensions with near-perfect accuracy. This allows for a more accurate reproduction not only of the vehicle's appearance with the wheel with tire attached, but also of the protrusion and recession of the wheel from the vehicle body, and enables virtual inspection from any direction at the required distance.

[0017] According to the third invention, in the customized 3D vehicle image, the amount of deformation that occurs when the sticker is applied to the vehicle body is virtually reproduced in three dimensions with near accuracy. This allows the vehicle, which appears to have the sticker applied, to be virtually viewed from any direction and at the required distance.

[0018] According to the fourth invention, in the 3D vehicle image after customization, the protrusion amount or the recess amount of the replacement exterior parts with respect to the vehicle body is virtually reproduced almost accurately in three dimensions. Thereby, not only the appearance of the vehicle with the replacement exterior parts attached but also the protruding state or the recessed state of the replacement exterior parts from the vehicle body can be reproduced more accurately, and it is possible to virtually confirm by approaching from any direction by the necessary distance.

[0019] According to the fifth invention, in the 3D vehicle image after customization, the protrusion amount of the additional exterior parts with respect to the vehicle body is virtually reproduced almost accurately in three dimensions. Thereby, not only the appearance of the vehicle with the additional exterior parts attached but also the protruding state of the replacement exterior parts from the vehicle body can be reproduced more accurately, and it is possible to virtually confirm by approaching from any direction by the necessary distance.

[0020] According to the sixth invention, when the protrusion amount of the custom parts with respect to the vehicle body exceeds the regulated value, the warning information is included in the 3D vehicle image after customization. In the user terminal that has received the 3D vehicle image, based on this warning information, it is possible to notify the user that the protrusion amount exceeds the regulated value. Therefore, even if it is difficult to notice when visually checking the 3D vehicle image that the protrusion amount of the custom parts with respect to the vehicle body, it is possible to surely convey to the user that it exceeds the regulated value.

[0021] According to the seventh invention, a vehicle customization support program having a terminal program and a server program for realizing the vehicle customization support system of the first invention can be appropriately realized.

Brief Description of Drawings

[0022] [Figure 1] It is a diagram explaining the overall configuration of a vehicle customization support system including a computer (user terminal, server) that operates the vehicle customization support program of the present invention. [Figure 2] It is a diagram showing an example of information stored in the storage device of the server. [Figure 3]In the first embodiment, it is a flowchart for explaining an example of processing of a user terminal and a server in a vehicle customization support system. [Figure 4] It is a flowchart showing the subsequent processing of FIG. 3. [Figure 5] It is a diagram for explaining an example of an input form displayed on a display means of a user terminal. [Figure 6] It is a diagram for explaining an example of a custom screen (before customization) displayed on a display means of a user terminal. [Figure 7] It is a diagram for explaining an example of a custom screen (after customization) displayed on a display means of a user terminal. [Figure 8] It is a diagram for explaining an example of warning information added to a 3D vehicle image. [Figure 9] It is a diagram showing an example of a 3D part image of a wheel with a tire. [Figure 10] It is a 3D vehicle image in a state where the wheel with a tire is removed, and is a diagram for explaining the mounting surface of a hub and the central axis of the hub corresponding to the vehicle-side mounting position information. [Figure 11] It is an example of a cross-sectional view of a 3D part image of a wheel with a tire, and is a diagram for explaining the mounting surface of the wheel and the central axis of the wheel corresponding to the part-side mounting position information. [Figure 12] It is a diagram for explaining an example of creating a 3D vehicle image with a rear wing, which is an additional exterior part, added on a 3D vehicle image. [Figure 13] It is a 3D vehicle image in a state where a front bumper to be replaced is removed when replacing an exterior part on a 3D vehicle image, and is a diagram for explaining the vehicle-side mounting surface and mounting holes corresponding to the vehicle-side mounting information. [Figure 14] It is a 3D part image of a front bumper, which is an exchangeable exterior part, and is a diagram for explaining the mounting surface and mounting holes of the front bumper corresponding to the part-side mounting position information. [Figure 15] It is a diagram for explaining the procedure for adding a sticker and an example of the vehicle-side mounting position where the sticker is attached from a custom screen (before customization) displayed on a display means of a user terminal. [Figure 16] This diagram illustrates an example where a sticker is added (applied) to a desired position on a 3D vehicle image in a custom screen (after customization) displayed on the user's terminal. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0023] ●[Overall configuration of the vehicle customization support system 1 (Figure 1) and information stored in the storage device 4 (Figure 2)] The embodiments for carrying out the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. Figure 1 shows the overall configuration of a vehicle customization support system 1, which includes a user terminal 2 for running the terminal program in the vehicle customization support program of the present invention and a server 3 for running the server program. The vehicle customization support system 1 (and vehicle customization support program) of the present invention is a system (program) that can more accurately reproduce not only the virtual appearance of a customized vehicle fitted with custom parts, but also the protrusion and recession of the custom parts from the vehicle body, and can virtually check them by approaching them from any direction and at the necessary distance.

[0024] As shown in Figure 1, the vehicle customization support system 1 consists of a server 3 connected to a public network N such as the Internet, and a user terminal 2 connected to the server 3 via the public network N. The terminal program in the vehicle customization support program of the present invention is installed on the user terminal 2 and controls the operation of the user terminal 2. The server program in the vehicle customization support program is installed on the server 3 and controls the operation of the server 3.

[0025] User terminal 2 is, for example, a desktop or notebook personal computer, a tablet computer, or a smartphone. User terminal 2 has input means, display means, and control means, and receives operations from the user, makes various requests to server 3, and displays various screens on the display means based on screen information transmitted from server 3. The input means is, for example, a keyboard, touch panel, mouse, or voice input means, the display means is, for example, an LCD monitor or touch panel, and the control means is, for example, a CPU.

[0026] Server 3 has input means, display means, control means, and storage device 4, and storage device 4 stores various information and programs. Note that the input means and display means of Server 3 are not shown in Figure 1. Storage device 4 stores 3D vehicle image data D1, which is a 3D image data of a vehicle (a 3D model that digitally represents the three-dimensional shape of the actual vehicle) corresponding to vehicle model information that can identify the appearance of the vehicle, and includes custom parts information related to a list of custom parts that can be installed on the vehicle, and vehicle side mounting position information, which is information related to the vehicle side mounting position where the custom parts are installed. Storage device 4 also stores 3D part image data D2 to D6 (see Figure 2), which is a 3D image data of a custom part corresponding to part identification information that can identify the custom part, and includes part side mounting position information, which is information related to the part side mounting position where it is installed, the vehicle side mounting position corresponding to the part side mounting position, and replacement / addition information indicating whether the custom part is of the type that replaces some parts of the vehicle or the type that is added without replacement.

[0027] Specifically, as shown in Figure 2, the storage device 4 stores 3D image data, additional information, vehicle-side mounting position information, and part-side mounting position information in association with identification information that can identify the vehicle's appearance (vehicle model) and custom parts as the primary key. For example, if the identification information identifies the vehicle's appearance (such as the vehicle model), the storage device 4 stores 3D vehicle image data D1 as the associated 3D image data, stores custom part information (information related to a list of custom parts that can be installed on the vehicle) as the associated additional information, and stores the vehicle-side mounting position information for each custom part (for example, the wheel mounting surface of the hub or the central axis as the vehicle-side mounting position of a wheel).

[0028] On the other hand, if the identification information identifies a custom part, the storage device 4 stores 3D part image data D2, D3, etc., as associated 3D image data, and stores replacement / addition information (information indicating whether the custom part is the type that replaces some parts of the vehicle or the type that is added without replacement) as associated additional information, and stores the mounting position information on the part side as the mounting position on the vehicle side (for example, the hub mounting surface or central axis of the wheel in the case of a wheel). The server 3 uses the storage device 4 when providing various screens in response to requests from the user terminal 2, and the details of these will be described later.

[0029] ●[Processing between User Terminal 2 and Server 3 (Figures 3-8)] Figures 3 and 4 are flowcharts illustrating the processing procedures for user terminal 2 and server 3 in the vehicle customization support system 1. When the terminal program in the vehicle customization support program is executed, user terminal 2 initiates the process shown in Figure 2 and proceeds to step T010.

[0030] In step T010, when the terminal program (e.g., terminal application program) of the vehicle customization support program is launched on user terminal 2, it displays the input form screen G10 for vehicle model and body color, as shown in the example in Figure 5, and proceeds to step T015. Both the vehicle model and body color are information used to identify the appearance of the vehicle, and the combination of these uniquely identifies the appearance of the vehicle in its normal state before customization.

[0031] The input form screen G10 contains a dropdown list J10 for selecting the vehicle model, a dropdown list J11 for selecting the body color, and a submit button J12. When the user selects the vehicle model from dropdown list J10, selects the body color from dropdown list J11, and presses the submit button J12, the selected vehicle model and body color are confirmed, and base vehicle information, including the vehicle model and body color information, is sent to server 3.

[0032] In step T015, user terminal 2 waits for the send button J12 to be pressed. If the vehicle model and body color have been entered and the send button J12 has been pressed (Yes), user terminal 2 proceeds to step T020; otherwise, it returns to step T015.

[0033] In step T020, user terminal 2 sends base vehicle information, including vehicle model information and body color information, to server 3 and waits for a response from server 3 (transmission of custom screen information).

[0034] In step S005, Server 3 determines whether or not it has received the base vehicle information. If Server 3 has received the base vehicle information (Yes), it proceeds to step S010; otherwise, it proceeds to step S015.

[0035] In step S010, when Server 3 receives base vehicle information from User Terminal 2, it creates custom screen information including a 3D vehicle image and custom parts information and sends it to User Terminal 2. Specifically, Server 3 extracts 3D vehicle image data stored in association with the vehicle model information contained in the received base vehicle information from Storage Device 4. For example, as shown in Figure 2, if "Vehicle Model Information = CAR-001", Server 3 searches Storage Device 4 using the vehicle model information "CAR-001" as the key and reads 3D vehicle image data D1 from record R1 corresponding to "CAR-001" as shown in Figure 2. Furthermore, Server 3 edits the color data on the 3D vehicle image data D1 based on the body color information contained in the base vehicle information and creates a 3D vehicle image. In addition, Server 3 reads custom parts information stored in association with the vehicle model information. For example, Server 3 reads custom parts information, which is additional information, from record R1 corresponding to the vehicle model information "CAR-001". The custom parts information is information related to a list of custom parts that can be installed on the vehicle of the target vehicle model. In this way, server 3 creates custom screen information including 3D vehicle images and custom parts information, sends it to user terminal 2, and proceeds to step S015.

[0036] In step T025, when the user terminal 2 receives custom screen information including a 3D vehicle image and custom parts information, it displays a custom screen G20 based on the custom screen information on the display means, as shown in the example in Figure 6, and proceeds to step T030. For example, the upper part of the custom screen G20 displays a 3D vehicle image GD1 based on the 3D vehicle image included in the custom screen information, and the lower part displays a list J21 of custom parts that can be installed on the vehicle selected by the user, based on the custom parts information included in the custom screen information.

[0037] In the example shown in Figure 6, in list J21, the item fields J22a display images of one or more wheels, J22b displays images of one or more tires, J22c displays images of one or more exterior parts, and J22d displays images of one or more stickers, all enclosed in divider frames. The user can recognize each enclosed custom part as a selection item. By pressing the forward button J23 or the back button J24, other candidates can be displayed. For example, clicking the forward button J23 in item field J22a shifts the wheel image one position to the right, and a new wheel candidate is displayed to its left. To shift the selection in the opposite direction, click the back button J24. The forward and back buttons in item fields J22b, J22c, and J22d have similar functions. On the custom screen G20, the user selects one or more custom parts from the list J21 that they want to attach to the 3D vehicle image, clicks them, and then presses the OK button J25.

[0038] In step T030, user terminal 2 waits for a custom part to be selected and for the confirm button J25 to be pressed. If the confirm button J25 is pressed (Yes), user terminal 2 proceeds to step T031; otherwise, it proceeds to step T045.

[0039] In step T031, user terminal 2 determines whether checkbox J28, which is used to check the tire wheel protrusion amount, is checked or not. If checkbox J28 is checked (Yes), user terminal 2 proceeds to step T032; otherwise, it proceeds to step T033. Checkbox J28 is located in a designated position on custom screen G20, and the user should check it if they want to check the tire wheel protrusion amount after replacement.

[0040] If the process proceeds to step T032, user terminal 2 sets the confirmation flag to ON and proceeds to step S035. The confirmation flag is used by server 3 to determine whether or not the tire protrusion amount needs to be calculated, and is initially set to OFF.

[0041] If the process proceeds to step T033, user terminal 2 sets the confirmation flag to OFF and proceeds to step S035.

[0042] In step T035, user terminal 2 sends custom request information to server 3, which includes a confirmation flag and part identification information that identifies the custom part corresponding to the selected item, and waits for a response from server 3 (sending of custom screen information). Each custom part displayed in list J21 in Figure 6 is associated with the part identification information in "Identification Information" in Figure 2.

[0043] In step S015, Server 3 determines whether or not it has received custom request information. If Server 3 has received custom request information (Yes), it proceeds to step S020. If it has not received custom request information (No), it returns to step S005, starting from the symbol "4" in Figure 4 and ending with the symbol "4" in Figure 3.

[0044] In step S020, Server 3 creates a 3D vehicle image of the vehicle with the replaced / added custom parts and proceeds to step S025. Specifically, when Server 3 receives custom request information from User Terminal 2, it extracts 3D part image data corresponding to the part identification information contained in the custom request information from Storage Device 4. For example, if "Part Identification Information = WHEEL-001", Server 3 searches Storage Device 4 using the part identification information "WHEEL-001" shown in Figure 2 as the key, and reads the 3D part image data D2 and the additional information, replacement / addition information "replacement", from record R2 corresponding to "WHEEL-001" shown in Figure 2. In this case, based on the extracted 3D part image data D2 of the wheel and the already extracted and color-edited 3D vehicle image GD1, Server 3 creates a customized 3D vehicle image by replacing the wheel portion in the 3D vehicle image included in the previous custom screen information sent to User Terminal 2 with the new 3D part image of the wheel.

[0045] Furthermore, if, for example, "Part Identification Information = GAISO-001", Server 3 searches Storage Device 4 using the part identification information "GAISO-001" shown in Figure 2 as the key, and reads the 3D part image data D4 and the additional information, replacement / addition information "Additional", from the record R4 corresponding to "GAISO-001" shown in Figure 2. In this case, Server 3 creates a customized 3D vehicle image by adding the new 3D part image of the rear wing to the 3D vehicle image included in the previous custom screen information sent to User Terminal 2, based on the extracted 3D part image data D4 of the rear wing (additional exterior part) and the already extracted and color-edited 3D vehicle image GD1. Note that exterior parts such as front spoilers and rear wings include both the type that are added, as in the example, and the type that are replaced (parts that are already attached to the vehicle body are removed and then installed). In the case of exterior parts that are replaced, the storage device 4 stores the replacement information, which is additional information, associated with "replacement," and in the case of exterior parts that are added, the storage device 4 stores the replacement information, which is additional information, associated with "addition."

[0046] In step S025, Server 3 determines whether the wheels were replaced when creating the 3D vehicle image and whether the confirmation flag received from User Terminal 2 is set to ON. If both conditions are met (Yes), Server 3 proceeds to step T030; otherwise, it proceeds to step T050.

[0047] If the process proceeds to step S030, Server 3 determines whether the replaced tire wheel protrudes from the vehicle body (whether the custom vehicle is illegal or not). If the tire wheel protrudes (is illegal) (No), Server 3 proceeds to step S040; if the tire wheel does not protrude (is not illegal) (Yes), Server 3 proceeds to step S050. The 3D vehicle image, based on 3D vehicle image data, is an accurate 3D model that digitally represents the three-dimensional shape of the actual vehicle, and the 3D part image, based on 3D part image data of the replaced tire wheel, is also an accurate 3D model. Furthermore, by accurately reproducing the vehicle-side mounting position, which is the mounting position on the vehicle side to which the tire wheel is attached, and the part-side mounting position, which is the mounting position on the tire wheel to the vehicle, Server 3 can make such a determination.

[0048] If the process proceeds to step S040, server 3 adds warning information to the 3D vehicle image and proceeds to step S050. For example, as shown in custom screen G31 in Figure 8, if the customized tires protrude from the vehicle body and are illegal, warning information GK (e.g., a speech bubble) indicating this may be added to the 3D vehicle image GD1c.

[0049] If the process proceeds to step S050, server 3 sends the customized 3D vehicle image and custom screen information, including custom parts information, to user terminal 2. Server 3 sends the same custom parts information as, for example, the information read from storage device 4 in step S010. Then, server 3 returns the process from the symbol "4" in Figure 4 to the symbol "4" in Figure 3, and returns to step S005.

[0050] In step T040, when user terminal 2 receives custom screen information including the customized 3D vehicle image and custom parts information, it displays custom screen G30 (see Figure 7) on the display device and proceeds to step T045. The example of custom screen G30 in Figure 7 shows an example where the wheel has been customized to the wheel of 3D part image GD2 in list J21. If the protrusion amount of the custom part exceeds the regulatory value, user terminal 2 displays custom screen G31 with warning information GK on the display device, as shown in the example in Figure 8, and proceeds to step T045.

[0051] When the user terminal 2 displays the custom screen G30 shown in the example of Figure 7 or the custom screen G31 shown in the example of Figure 8 on the display means, for example, the upper part of the custom screen G30 or custom screen G31 displays a 3D vehicle image GD1c showing the appearance of the customized vehicle based on the customized 3D vehicle image included in the custom screen information, and the lower part displays a list J21 of custom parts that can be installed on the vehicle selected by the user, based on the custom parts information included in the custom screen information.

[0052] In step T045, user terminal 2 determines whether or not the user has given instructions for 3D screen operation. If user terminal 2 has received instructions from the user for 3D image operation, including instructions to change the orientation (rotation operation) or size (enlarge or reduce operation) of the 3D vehicle image GD1c on custom screen G30 (see Figure 7) or custom screen G31 (see Figure 8) displayed on the display means (Yes), the process proceeds to step T050. If user terminal 2 has not received instructions for 3D image operation (No), the process proceeds to step T060.

[0053] In step T050, user terminal 2 changes the orientation and size of the 3D vehicle image according to the user's instructions and proceeds to step T052. Specifically, when user terminal 2 receives a 3D image manipulation instruction that includes an instruction to change the orientation and size of the 3D vehicle image GD1c on custom screen G30 or custom image G31, it performs image manipulation, including changing the orientation and size of the 3D vehicle image, according to the 3D image manipulation instruction. In other words, user terminal 2 can rotate the 3D vehicle image GD1c to display the virtual appearance of the vehicle at the angle desired by the user, and can enlarge or reduce the 3D vehicle image GD1c to display the virtual appearance of the vehicle by the amount desired by the user, either closer or further away.

[0054] In step T052, user terminal 2 determines whether the order button J27 on the displayed custom screen G30 (see Figure 7) or custom screen G31 (see Figure 8) has been pressed. If it has not been pressed (No), the process proceeds to step T060; if it has been pressed (Yes), the process proceeds to step T054.

[0055] If the process proceeds to step S054, user terminal 2 sends order information including part identification information to server 3 and proceeds to step T056.

[0056] In step S060, server 3 determines whether or not it has received order information. If server 3 has received order information (Yes), it proceeds to step S070. If it has not received order information (No), it returns to step S005, starting from the symbol "4" in Figure 4 and ending with the symbol "4" in Figure 3.

[0057] If the process proceeds to step S070, server 3 executes the order procedure and proceeds to step S080. For example, server 3 sends order information to the server of the custom parts manufacturer (a server other than server 3).

[0058] In step S080, server 3 sends order completion screen information to user terminal 2. The order completion screen information includes, for example, string information indicating that the order has been completed.

[0059] In step T056, when user terminal 2 receives the order completion screen information, it displays the order completion screen in a separate frame from the custom screen on the display device and proceeds to step T060. Note that the reason the order completion screen is displayed in a separate frame from the custom screen is for the convenience of the flowchart; it may also be possible to transition to the order completion screen, which includes a custom continuation button and an end button, and then return to the custom screen by transitioning back when the custom continuation button is pressed, or to terminate the process when the end button is pressed.

[0060] In step T060, user terminal 2 determines whether the exit button J26 on the displayed custom screen G20 (see Figure 6) (or custom screen G30 (see Figure 7) or custom screen G31 (see Figure 8)) has been pressed. If it has not been pressed (No), the process returns to step T030, indicated by the symbol "3" in Figure 4 and the symbol "3" in Figure 3. If it has been pressed (Yes), the process shown in Figures 3 and 4 is terminated.

[0061] Furthermore, the CPU (control means) of user terminal 2, which is executing the processing of steps T010 to T025 in user terminal 2 in Figures 3 and 4, corresponds to a 3D base vehicle image acquisition means 2a (see Figure 1), which, after receiving input of vehicle model information and body color information that can identify the appearance of the vehicle, transmits base vehicle information including vehicle model information and body color information to server 3, receives custom screen information from server 3 including a 3D vehicle image GD1 (see Figure 6), which is a 3D image of the vehicle based on the vehicle model information and body color information, and custom parts information related to a list of custom parts that can be installed on the vehicle J21 (see Figure 6), and displays a custom screen G20 (see Figure 6) including the 3D vehicle image and custom parts information based on the received custom screen information.

[0062] Furthermore, the CPU (control means) of user terminal 2, which is executing the processing of steps T030 to T040 of user terminal 2 in Figures 3 and 4, corresponds to a 3D custom vehicle image acquisition means 2b (see Figure 1), which, after selecting one or more items from the custom part information on the displayed custom screen (G20, G30, G31, etc.), sends custom request information to server 3, which includes part identification information that can identify the custom part corresponding to the selected item, receives a customized 3D vehicle image GD1c (see Figures 7 and 8) in which a part of the 3D vehicle image has been replaced with a 3D part image which is a 3D image of a custom part, or a customized 3D vehicle image GD1c (see Figures 7 and 8) in which a 3D part image has been added to the 3D vehicle image, and custom screen information including custom part information, and displays a custom screen (G30, G31, etc.) including the customized 3D vehicle image GD1c and custom part information based on the received custom screen information.

[0063] Furthermore, the CPU (control means) of user terminal 2, which is executing the processing of steps T045 to T050 in user terminal 2 in Figures 3 and 4, corresponds to a 3D image processing means 2c (see Figure 1) that, upon receiving a 3D image manipulation instruction, including an instruction to change the orientation and size of the 3D vehicle image on a custom screen displayed by the 3D base vehicle image acquisition means 2a (see Figure 1) or the 3D custom vehicle image acquisition means 2b (see Figure 1), performs image manipulation, including changing the orientation and size of the 3D vehicle image, in response to the 3D image manipulation instruction.

[0064] Furthermore, the CPU (control means) of Server 3, which is executing the processing of steps S005 to S010 of Server 3 in Figures 3 and 4, corresponds to a 3D base vehicle image providing means 3a (see Figure 1). When it receives base vehicle information from the user terminal 2, it extracts 3D vehicle image data corresponding to the vehicle model information contained in the received base vehicle information, creates a 3D vehicle image GD1 (see Figure 6) based on the extracted 3D vehicle image data and the body color information contained in the base vehicle information, and creates custom screen information including the created 3D vehicle image GD1 and the custom parts information contained in the extracted 3D vehicle image data, and sends it to the user terminal 2.

[0065] Furthermore, the CPU (control means) of Server 3, which executes the processing in steps S015 to S050 of Server 3 in Figures 3 and 4, receives custom request information from User Terminal 2, extracts 3D part image data corresponding to the part identification information contained in the received custom request information, and based on the 3D vehicle image data and 3D part image data, creates a customized 3D vehicle image by replacing a part of the 3D vehicle image included in the custom screen information sent to User Terminal 2 with a 3D part image, or creates a customized 3D vehicle image by adding a 3D part image to the 3D vehicle image included in the custom screen information sent to User Terminal 2, and creates custom screen information including the created customized 3D vehicle image and custom part information, and sends it to User Terminal 2. This corresponds to a 3D custom vehicle image providing means 3b (see Figure 1).

[0066] ●[When custom parts are wheels with tires (replacement) (Figures 9-11)] In step S020 of the flowchart shown in Figure 4, Server 3 creates a 3D vehicle image of the customized vehicle with replaced and added custom parts. Below, we will explain an example of the specific procedure for Server 3 to create a 3D vehicle image when the custom request information received from User Terminal 2 includes part identification information corresponding to the wheel and part identification information corresponding to the tire. Below, we will explain an example in which the user selects the 3D part image GD2 (part identification information "WHEEL-001" (see Figure 2)) for the wheel and the 3D part image GD3 (part identification information "TIYE-001" (see Figure 2)) for the tire from List J21 on the custom screen G20 shown in the example in Figure 6.

[0067] If the custom request information received from the user terminal 2 includes "WHEEL-001 (see Figure 2)" as part identification information for the wheel and "TIYE-001 (see Figure 2)" as part identification information for the tire, the server 3 extracts the 3D part image data D2 (see Figure 2) of the wheel corresponding to part identification information "WHEEL-001" and the 3D part image data D3 (see Figure 2) of the tire corresponding to part identification information "TIYE-001" from the storage device 4.

[0068] Server 3 then creates a 3D part image GD23 of the wheel with tire, using the extracted 3D part image data D2 (see Figure 2) of the wheel and the extracted 3D part image data D3 (see Figure 2) of the tire, as shown in Figure 9. As shown in Figure 2, the part-side mounting position information corresponding to the 3D part image data D2 of the wheel "WHEEL-001" includes information related to the tire mounting area (specifically, information related to the tire mounting surface 23 (see Figure 11)). Similarly, as shown in Figure 2, the part-side mounting position information corresponding to the 3D part image data D3 of the tire "TIYE-001" includes mounting structure data to the wheel (specifically, information related to the mounting surface 28 (see Figure 11) to the wheel, which is the position where it is attached to the wheel). Server 3, for example, matches the tire mounting surface 23 (see Figure 11) in the 3D part image GD2 of the wheel with the mounting surface 28 (see Figure 11) on the wheel in the 3D part image GD3 of the tire to create a 3D part image GD23 of the wheel with a tire (see Figures 9 and 11).

[0069] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 2, Server 3 has the replacement information corresponding to the wheel "WHEEL-001" as "replacement (replacement information)" and the replacement information corresponding to the tire "TIYE-001" as "replacement (replacement information)". Therefore, Server 3 creates a 3D vehicle image by replacing the 3D part image of the wheel with a tire in the pre-customization 3D vehicle image GD1 (3D vehicle image based on the 3D vehicle image data D1 shown in Figure 2) with the created 3D part image of the wheel with a tire GD23 (see Figure 9).

[0070] As shown in Figure 2, the 3D vehicle image data D1 includes vehicle-side mounting position information, which is information related to the vehicle-side mounting position where the custom parts are attached. In the example in Figure 2, the 3D vehicle image data D1 is associated with the tire wheel mounting portion (specifically, the wheel mounting surface of the hub and the central axis) as vehicle-side mounting position information for the wheel. Here, Figure 10 shows the state after removing the 3D part image of the wheel with a tire from the 3D vehicle image GD1 shown in Figure 6. As shown in Figure 10, the 3D vehicle image GD1 based on the 3D vehicle image data D1 (see Figure 2) includes information related to the mounting surface 11 and central axis 12 of the hub 10 to which the wheel is attached, as vehicle-side mounting position information for the wheel.

[0071] As shown in Figure 2, the 3D part image data D2 includes (is associated with) part-side mounting position information, which is information related to the part-side mounting position, which is the position where the part is attached to the vehicle-side mounting position. In the example in Figure 2, the 3D part image data D2 is associated with the vehicle-side mounting position information, which includes the vehicle-side mounting position (tire wheel mounting section (hub)) and mounting structure data to the tire wheel mounting section (specifically, the hub mounting surface, central axis, etc.). Here, Figure 11 shows a cross-section of the 3D part image GD23 of the wheel with a tire shown in Figure 9. As shown in Figure 11, the 3D part image GD2 based on the 3D part image data D2 (see Figure 2) includes information related to the mounting surface 21 of the wheel 20 (the surface in contact with the mounting surface 11 of the hub 10 in Figure 10) and the central axis 22 of the wheel 20, etc., as part-side mounting position information.

[0072] When Server 3 creates a customized 3D vehicle image GD1c (see Figure 7) from the original 3D vehicle image GD1 (see Figure 6), it replaces the 3D part image of the wheel with a tire in 3D vehicle image GD1 (see Figure 6) with the 3D part image GD23 (see Figure 9) to create 3D vehicle image GD1c (see Figure 7). However, simply replacing the 3D part image of the wheel with a tire with the 3D part image GD23 may result in the hub 10 and wheel 20 not being in the correct relative positions. Therefore, Server 3 aligns the central axis 22 of the wheel 20 in the 3D part image GD23 (see Figure 11) with the central axis 12 of the hub 10 in 3D vehicle image GD1 (see Figure 10). Furthermore, Server 3 aligns the mounting surface 21 of the wheel 20 (see Figure 11) in the 3D part image GD23 of the wheel with tire to the mounting surface 11 of the hub 10 (see Figure 10) in the 3D vehicle image GD1. By this positioning method, the mounting position on the part side is superimposed and aligned with the mounting position on the vehicle side, and Server 3 accurately positions the 3D part image GD23 of the wheel with tire relative to the 3D vehicle image GD1. As a result, Server 3 creates a customized and accurate 3D vehicle image that accurately reproduces not only the virtual appearance of the wheel with tire but also the amount of protrusion or recess of the wheel with tire relative to the vehicle body in the 3D vehicle image.

[0073] ●[When custom parts are exterior parts (additional) (Figure 12)] In step S020 of the flowchart shown in Figure 4, Server 3 creates a 3D vehicle image of the customized vehicle with replaced and added custom parts. Below, we will explain an example of the specific procedure for Server 3 to create a 3D vehicle image when the custom request information received from User Terminal 2 includes part identification information corresponding to the added exterior parts. Below, we will explain an example in which the user selects the 3D part image GD4 (part identification information "GAISO-001" (see Figure 2)) of the (added) exterior part from list J21 on the custom screen G20 shown in the example in Figure 6.

[0074] If the custom request information received from the user terminal 2 includes "GAISO-001 (see Figure 2)" as part identification information corresponding to the (additional) exterior part, the server 3 extracts the 3D part image data D4 (see Figure 2) of the rear wing corresponding to the part identification information "GAISO-001" from the storage device 4.

[0075] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 2, Server 3, knowing that the replacement additional information corresponding to the exterior part "GAISO-001" is "addition (additional information)", creates a 3D vehicle image by adding the 3D part image GD4 of the rear wing (see Figure 12) to a predetermined location on the vehicle body of the pre-customized 3D vehicle image GD1 (3D vehicle image based on the 3D vehicle image data D1 shown in Figure 2) as shown in Figure 6.

[0076] As shown in Figure 2, the 3D vehicle image data D1 includes vehicle-side mounting position information, which is information related to the vehicle-side mounting position, a predetermined location for attaching custom parts. In the example in Figure 2, the 3D vehicle image data D1 is associated with the rear wing mounting portion (specifically, the mounting surface and mounting holes of the rear gate) as vehicle-side mounting position information for the rear wing. Figure 12 shows an example of the vehicle-side mounting position, such as the mounting holes for the rear wing on the rear gate of the 3D vehicle image GD1 shown in Figure 6. As shown in Figure 12, the 3D vehicle image GD1 based on the 3D vehicle image data D1 (see Figure 2) includes information related to the mounting position of the additional rear wing (additional exterior part), such as the surface (predetermined location) of the mounting position 51 on the rear gate 50, the mounting holes 53h and 54h (predetermined locations) provided at the mounting position 51, and the respective central axes 53a and 54a of the mounting holes 53h and 54h (see Figure 12).

[0077] As shown in Figure 2, the 3D part image data D4 also includes part-side mounting position information, which is information related to the part-side mounting position, which is the position where the part is attached to the vehicle-side mounting position. In the example in Figure 2, the 3D part image data D4 includes, as part-side mounting position information, the vehicle-side mounting position (rear wing mounting section (rear gate)) and mounting structure data for the rear wing mounting section (specifically, information related to the mounting surfaces 63b, 64b, the mounting holes 63h, 64h provided on the mounting surfaces 63b, 64b, the central axes 63a, 64a of the mounting holes 63h, 64h, etc. (see Figure 12)). The mounting surfaces 63b, 64b may be processed to correspond to the curved surface of the mounting position 51 in the 3D vehicle image GD1.

[0078] When Server 3 creates a customized 3D vehicle image from the pre-customized 3D vehicle image GD1 (see Figure 6), it adds a 3D part image GD4 of the rear wing to a predetermined position (vehicle-side mounting position) on the rear gate of the 3D vehicle image GD1 to create the customized 3D vehicle image. During creation, as shown in the example in Figure 12, Server 3 aligns the central axes 63a and 64a of the mounting holes 63h and 64h in the 3D part image GD4 of the rear wing with the central axes 53a and 54a of the mounting holes 53h and 54h in the 3D vehicle image GD1, respectively. Additionally, Server 3 aligns the mounting surfaces 63b and 64b of the 3D part image GD4 of the rear wing with the surface of the mounting position 51 on the rear gate 50 in the 3D vehicle image GD1. Server 3 also aligns the mounting holes 63h and 64h in the 3D part image GD4 of the rear wing with the mounting holes 53h and 54h in the 3D vehicle image GD1. By using this positioning method, Server 3 aligns the mounting position on the part with the mounting position on the vehicle, and accurately positions the 3D part image GD4 of the rear wing relative to the 3D vehicle image GD1. As a result, Server 3 creates an accurate customized 3D vehicle image that not only reproduces the virtual appearance of the additional exterior part but also accurately reproduces the amount of protrusion or recess of the additional exterior part relative to the vehicle body in the 3D vehicle image.

[0079] ●[When custom parts are exterior parts (replacement) (Figures 13, 14)] In step S020 of the flowchart shown in Figure 4, Server 3 creates a 3D vehicle image of the customized vehicle with replaced and added custom parts. Below, we will explain an example of the specific procedure for Server 3 to create a 3D vehicle image when the custom request information received from User Terminal 2 includes part identification information corresponding to the replaced exterior parts. Below, we will explain an example in which the user selects the 3D part image GD5 (part identification information "GAISO-002" (see Figure 2)) of the (replaced) exterior part from list J21 on the custom screen G20 shown in the example in Figure 6.

[0080] If the custom request information received from the user terminal 2 includes "GAISO-002 (see Figure 2)" as part identification information corresponding to the (replacement) exterior part, the server 3 extracts the 3D part image data D5 (see Figure 2) of the front bumper corresponding to the part identification information "GAISO-002" from the storage device 4.

[0081] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 2, Server 3, knowing that the additional information for replacement corresponding to the exterior part "GAISO-002" is "replacement (replacement information)", creates a 3D vehicle image by replacing the 3D part image of the front bumper (corresponding to the part to be replaced) in the pre-customization 3D vehicle image GD1 (3D vehicle image based on the 3D vehicle image data D1 shown in Figure 2) in Figure 6 with the 3D part image GD5 (see Figure 14) based on the 3D part image data D5.

[0082] As shown in Figure 2, the 3D vehicle image data D1 includes vehicle-side mounting position information, which is information related to the vehicle-side mounting position, a predetermined location where the custom part is to be attached. In the example in Figure 2, the 3D vehicle image data D1 is associated with the front bumper mounting area (specifically, the mounting surface and mounting holes of the front bumper) as vehicle-side mounting position information for the front bumper. Here, Figure 13 shows an example of the vehicle-side mounting position, such as the mounting holes of the front bumper in the 3D vehicle image GD1 shown in Figure 6, and Figure 14 shows an example of the part-side mounting position, such as the mounting holes of the 3D part image GD5 of the front bumper to be replaced. As shown in Figure 13, the 3D vehicle image GD1, based on the 3D vehicle image data D1 (see Figure 2), includes information related to the vehicle-side mounting position information for the front bumper (replacement exterior part) to be replaced, such as the mounting surfaces 33b to 36b of the front bumper, the mounting holes 33h to 36h provided on the mounting surfaces 33b to 36b, and the central axes 33a to 36a of the mounting holes 33h to 36h (see Figure 13).

[0083] As shown in Figure 2, the 3D part image data D5 also includes part-side mounting position information, which is information related to the part-side mounting position, which is the position where the part is attached to the vehicle-side mounting position. In the example in Figure 2, the 3D part image data D5 includes part-side mounting position information, such as the vehicle-side mounting position (front bumper mounting section (front bumper)) and mounting structure data for the front bumper mounting section (specifically, information related to the mounting surfaces 43b to 46b, the mounting holes 43h to 46h provided on the mounting surfaces 43b to 46b, and the central axes 43a to 46a of the mounting holes 43h to 46h (see Figure 14)).

[0084] When Server 3 creates a customized 3D vehicle image from the pre-customized 3D vehicle image GD1 (see Figure 6), it first removes and deletes the pre-replacement front bumper from the 3D vehicle image GD1 (see Figure 13). Next, Server 3 places a 3D part image GD5 based on the 3D part image data D5 of the replacement front bumper shown in Figure 14 in the position of the original front bumper, thereby creating the customized 3D vehicle image. During creation, as shown in the examples in Figures 13 and 14, Server 3 aligns the central axes 43a to 46a of the mounting holes 43h to 46h in the 3D part image GD5 of the front bumper (see Figure 14) with the central axes 33a to 36a of the mounting holes 33h to 36h in the 3D vehicle image GD1 (see Figure 13). Furthermore, Server 3 aligns the mounting surfaces 43b to 46b (see Figure 14) in the 3D part image GD5 of the front bumper with the mounting surfaces 33b to 36b (see Figure 13) in the 3D vehicle image GD1. Server 3 also aligns the mounting holes 43h to 46h (see Figure 14) in the 3D part image GD5 of the front bumper with the mounting holes 33h to 36h (see Figure 13) in the 3D vehicle image GD1. By using this positioning method, the mounting positions on the part are superimposed and aligned with the mounting positions on the vehicle, and Server 3 accurately positions the 3D part image GD5 of the front bumper relative to the 3D vehicle image GD1. As a result, Server 3 creates an accurate customized 3D vehicle image that not only reproduces the virtual appearance of the replacement exterior part but also accurately reproduces the amount of protrusion or recess of the replacement exterior part relative to the vehicle body in the 3D vehicle image.

[0085] ●[When custom parts are stickers (additional) (Figures 15, 16)] In step S020 of the flowchart shown in Figure 4, Server 3 creates a 3D vehicle image of the customized vehicle with replaced and added custom parts. Below, we will explain an example of the specific procedure for Server 3 to create a 3D vehicle image when the custom request information received from User Terminal 2 includes part identification information corresponding to a sticker to be affixed to a desired location on the vehicle body. Below, we will explain as an example when the user selects the 3D part image GD6 of a sticker (part identification information "STK-001" (see Figure 2)) as a custom part from List J21 in Custom Screen G22 shown in the example of Figure 15, and then selects "Desired Location Pb" in 3D Vehicle Image GD1 as the location to affix the sticker. Specifically, in Custom Screen G22 of Figure 15, when the user selects the 3D part image GD6 of a sticker from List J21, for example, the desired location Pa (frame shown by a dashed line) is displayed on 3D Vehicle Image GD1 as the initial location to affix the sticker. The desired position Pa is merely the initial position; the user can select any position on the 3D vehicle image GD1 as the sticker placement location. For example, if the user drags the mouse near the center of the frame at desired position Pa, the frame becomes movable along the body curve of the 3D vehicle image GD1, and can be moved to, for example, desired position Pb and dropped. Alternatively, if the user drags the mouse near the inner edge of the frames at desired positions Pa and Pb, the frame becomes rotatable along the body curve of the 3D vehicle image GD1, and can be dropped at the desired angle.

[0086] If the custom request information received from the user terminal 2 includes "STK-001 (see Figure 2)" as part identification information corresponding to the sticker and "Desired position (Pb)" as the vehicle mounting position, Server 3 extracts the 3D part image data D6 (see Figure 2) of the sticker corresponding to the part identification information ("STK-001") from the storage device 4. Then, based on the information related to the curved surface of the vehicle body corresponding to the desired position (Pb) contained in the 3D vehicle image data D1, Server 3 deforms the 3D part image data D6 of the sticker to match the curved surface of the desired position (Pb).

[0087] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 2, Server 3, knowing that the additional information corresponding to the sticker "STK-001" is "Addition (Additional Information)", creates a 3D vehicle image by adding a 3D part image GD6b of the sticker (a 3D part image obtained by deforming the 3D part image data D6 shown in Figure 2) to the desired position (Pb) of the pre-customized 3D vehicle image GD1 (a 3D vehicle image based on the 3D vehicle image data D1 shown in Figure 2), which has been deformed to match the curved surface of the desired position (Pb).

[0088] As shown in Figure 2, the 3D vehicle image data D1 includes vehicle-side mounting position information, which is information related to the vehicle-side mounting position, a predetermined location where custom parts are to be attached (it is associated with this information). In the example in Figure 2, the 3D vehicle image data D1 includes information about the entire exterior design surface of the vehicle as vehicle-side mounting position information for the sticker. Also, as shown in Figure 15, the 3D vehicle image GD1 based on the 3D vehicle image data D1 (see Figure 2) also includes information about the entire exterior design surface of the vehicle as vehicle-side mounting position information for the sticker to be added. Furthermore, since the desired location for attaching the sticker is specified by the user, as shown in Figure 2, the 3D part image data D6 does not include part-side mounting position information, which is information related to the part-side mounting position, where the sticker is attached to the vehicle-side mounting position, unlike the wheel with tire and exterior parts mentioned above, but rather the position information specified by the user each time.

[0089] When Server 3 creates a customized 3D vehicle image GD1c (see Figure 16) from the uncustomized 3D vehicle image GD1 (see Figure 15), it adds a 3D part image GD6b of the sticker, which has been deformed to match the curved surface of the desired position (Pb) selected by the user in the 3D vehicle image GD1, to create the customized 3D vehicle image GD1c (see Figure 16). During creation, Server 3 aligns the mounting surface (adhesive surface) of the 3D part image GD6b, which is a deformed image of the sticker "STK-001" based on the 3D part image data D6b shown in Figure 2, with the desired position (Pb) shown in Figure 15 of the 3D vehicle image GD1. By using this positioning method, Server 3 accurately places the 3D part image GD6b of the sticker on the 3D vehicle image GD1 by overlapping and aligning the position selected by the user with the mounting position on the vehicle side. As a result, Server 3 creates an accurate customized 3D vehicle image that precisely reproduces not only the virtual appearance of the sticker but also the deformation of the sticker relative to the vehicle body in the 3D vehicle image. Furthermore, even once a sticker has been applied, the user can drag it with the mouse to move it in the 3D vehicle image GD1c, and it will deform according to the curved surface of the destination, allowing the user to easily reconsider and re-decide where they want to place the sticker (the desired location).

[0090] ●[About the Vehicle Customization Support Program] Next, a vehicle customization support program will be described, which includes a terminal program that controls the operation of user terminal 2 and a server program that controls the operation of server 3. The vehicle customization support program is a program that can more accurately reproduce not only the virtual appearance of a customized vehicle with custom parts installed, but also the protrusion and recession of the custom parts from the vehicle body, and can virtually check the vehicle by approaching it from any direction and at the necessary distance.

[0091] Server 3 has a storage device 4 that stores 3D vehicle image data and 3D part image data. The 3D vehicle image data is a three-dimensional image of a vehicle corresponding to vehicle type information that can identify the appearance of the vehicle, and includes custom part information related to a list of custom parts that can be installed on the vehicle, and vehicle side mounting position information which is information related to the vehicle side mounting position where the custom part to be replaced or added is installed. The 3D part image data is a three-dimensional image of a custom part corresponding to part identification information that can identify the custom part, and includes part side mounting position information which is information related to the part side mounting position where it is installed at the vehicle side mounting position, the vehicle side mounting position corresponding to the part side mounting position, and replacement / addition information indicating whether the custom part is of the type that replaces some parts of the vehicle or of the type that is added without replacement.

[0092] The terminal program is the program that controls the operation of user terminal 2 in the flowcharts shown in Figures 3 and 4 above, and corresponds to the programs in steps T010 to T050 in Figures 3 and 4.

[0093] In other words, the terminal program functions as a 3D base vehicle image acquisition means 2a (see Figure 1), which, after receiving vehicle model information and body color information as input, sends base vehicle information including vehicle model information and body color information to the server 3, receives custom screen information including a 3D vehicle image based on the vehicle model information and body color information and custom parts information from the server 3, and displays a custom screen including the 3D vehicle image and custom parts information based on the received custom screen information.

[0094] Furthermore, the terminal program functions as a 3D custom vehicle image acquisition means 2b (see Figure 1), which, after selecting one or more items from the custom parts information on the custom screen, sends custom request information including part identification information corresponding to the selected items to the server 3, receives a customized 3D vehicle image from the server 3, which includes a customized 3D vehicle image in which a portion of the 3D vehicle image has been replaced with a 3D part image of a custom part, or a customized 3D vehicle image in which a 3D part image has been added to the 3D vehicle image, as well as custom parts information, and displays a custom screen including the customized 3D vehicle image and custom parts information based on the received custom screen information.

[0095] Furthermore, when the terminal program receives a 3D image manipulation instruction from the user terminal 2, which includes an instruction to change the orientation and size of a 3D vehicle image on a custom screen displayed by the 3D base vehicle image acquisition means or the 3D custom vehicle image acquisition means, it causes the terminal terminal 2 to function as a 3D image processing means 2c (see Figure 1) that performs image manipulation, including changing the orientation and size of the 3D vehicle image, in response to the 3D image manipulation instruction.

[0096] The server program controls the operation of Server 3 in the flowcharts shown in Figures 3 and 4, and corresponds to the programs in steps S005 to S050 in Figures 3 and 4.

[0097] In other words, the server program makes server 3 function as a 3D base vehicle image providing means 3a (see Figure 1), which, upon receiving base vehicle information from user terminal 2, extracts 3D vehicle image data corresponding to the vehicle model information contained in the received base vehicle information, creates a 3D vehicle image based on the extracted 3D vehicle image data and the body color information contained in the base vehicle information, and creates custom screen information including the created 3D vehicle image and the custom parts information contained in the extracted 3D vehicle image data, and sends it to user terminal 2.

[0098] Furthermore, the server program causes server 3 to function as a 3D custom vehicle image providing means 3b (see Figure 1), which, upon receiving custom request information from user terminal 2, extracts 3D part image data corresponding to the part identification information contained in the received custom request information, and based on the 3D vehicle image data and 3D part image data, creates a customized 3D vehicle image by replacing a part of the 3D vehicle image included in the custom screen information sent to user terminal 2 with 3D part images, or creates a customized 3D vehicle image by adding 3D part images to the 3D vehicle image included in the custom screen information sent to user terminal 2, and then creates custom screen information including the created customized 3D vehicle image and custom part information and sends it to user terminal 2.

[0099] The server program then uses the server as a 3D custom vehicle image providing means 3b to create a customized 3D vehicle image. In the customized 3D vehicle image, the server program virtually reproduces in three dimensions the amount of protrusion from the vehicle body, the amount of recess from the vehicle body, or the amount of deformation of the custom part from the vehicle body, based on the vehicle-side mounting position information and the part-side mounting position information.

[0100] The vehicle customization support system and vehicle customization support program of the present invention are not limited to the configuration, flowchart, program, etc. described in this embodiment, and various modifications, additions, and deletions are possible without altering the essence of the present invention.

[0101] Furthermore, the configuration and items of the various types of information described in this embodiment (dropdown lists J10, J11, list J21, item fields J22a to J22d) are not limited to those described here. Also, the configuration and items of the various screens described in this embodiment (input form screen G10, custom screens G20, G30, etc.) are not limited to those described here.

[0102] In this embodiment, a rear wing was given as an example of an additional exterior part, but it is not limited to a rear wing, and additional exterior parts include various items such as door visors, side steps, roof racks, mudguards, etc. Also, a front bumper was given as an example of a replacement exterior part, but it is not limited to a front bumper, and replacement exterior parts include various items such as a rear bumper, front grille, etc. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0103] 1. Vehicle Customization Support System 2 User terminals 2a 3D base vehicle image acquisition means 2b 3D Custom Vehicle Image Acquisition Method 2c 3D image processing means 3 Servers 3a 3D base vehicle image providing means 3b 3D Custom Vehicle Image Provisioning Method 4 Storage device D1 3D vehicle image data D2, D3, D4, D5, D6 3D part image data G10 Input Form Screen G20, G21 Custom Screen (Before Customization) G30, G31, G32 Custom Screen (After Customization) GD1, GD1c 3D vehicle images GD2, GD3, GD4, GD5, GD6, GD6b 3D part images J21 List J22a~J22d Item field N Public Network R1~R6 Records

Claims

1. A vehicle customization support system that displays the virtual appearance of a customized vehicle, which has been customized by replacing or adding custom parts to a vehicle, on a user terminal connected to a server via a network, The aforementioned user terminal is A 3D base vehicle image acquisition means inputs vehicle model information and body color information that can identify the vehicle's appearance, then transmits base vehicle information including the vehicle model information and body color information to the server, receives custom screen information from the server including a 3D vehicle image based on the vehicle model information and body color information, and custom parts information related to a list of custom parts that can be installed on the vehicle, and displays a custom screen including the 3D vehicle image and custom parts information based on the received custom screen information. A 3D custom vehicle image acquisition means that, after one or more items are selected from the custom parts information on the custom screen, sends custom request information to the server including part identification information that can identify the custom parts corresponding to the selected items, receives custom screen information from the server including a customized 3D vehicle image in which a part of the 3D vehicle image has been replaced with a 3D part image of the custom parts, or a customized 3D vehicle image in which the 3D part image has been added to the 3D vehicle image, and the custom parts information, and displays a custom screen including the customized 3D vehicle image and the custom parts information based on the received custom screen information. A 3D image processing means, upon receiving a 3D image manipulation instruction that includes an instruction to change the orientation and size of the 3D vehicle image on the custom screen displayed by the 3D base vehicle image acquisition means or the 3D custom vehicle image acquisition means, performs image manipulation, including changing the orientation and size of the 3D vehicle image, in response to the 3D image manipulation instruction. It has, The aforementioned server, 3D vehicle image data relating to the vehicle type information, the vehicle image data including the custom parts information and vehicle mounting position information which is information relating to the vehicle mounting position which is the position where the custom parts are attached, 3D part image data including: 3D image data of the custom part corresponding to the part identification information, part-side mounting position information which is information related to the part-side mounting position which is the position where the part is mounted on the vehicle-side mounting position; the vehicle-side mounting position corresponding to the part-side mounting position; and replacement / addition information indicating whether the custom part is of the replacement type or the addition type; It has a memory device that stores, A 3D base vehicle image providing means, upon receiving the base vehicle information from the user terminal, extracts the 3D vehicle image data corresponding to the vehicle model information contained in the received base vehicle information, creates the 3D vehicle image based on the extracted 3D vehicle image data and the body color information contained in the base vehicle information, creates the custom screen information including the created 3D vehicle image and the custom parts information contained in the extracted 3D vehicle image data, and transmits it to the user terminal. A 3D custom vehicle image providing means that, upon receiving the custom request information from the user terminal, extracts the 3D part image data corresponding to the part identification information contained in the received custom request information, and based on the 3D vehicle image data and the 3D part image data, creates a customized 3D vehicle image by replacing a part of the 3D vehicle image included in the custom screen information transmitted to the user terminal with the 3D part image data, or creates a customized 3D vehicle image by adding the 3D part image data to the 3D vehicle image included in the custom screen information transmitted to the user terminal, creates the customized screen information including the created customized 3D vehicle image and the custom part information, and transmits it to the user terminal. It has, When creating the customized 3D vehicle image using the 3D custom vehicle image providing means, the amount of protrusion from the vehicle body, the amount of recess from the vehicle body, or the amount of deformation of the custom part from the vehicle body is virtually reproduced in three dimensions in the customized 3D vehicle image based on the vehicle-side mounting position information and the part-side mounting position information. When the 3D custom vehicle image providing means creates the 3D vehicle image after customization, if the replaced or added custom parts protrude from the vehicle body, and the amount of protrusion exceeds the regulated value, the 3D vehicle image after customization will be created including warning information. Vehicle customization support system.

2. A vehicle customization support system according to claim 1, The aforementioned custom parts are wheels and tires. The custom parts information on the custom screen displayed on the user terminal includes one or more wheels and one or more tires. The 3D vehicle image data includes information relating to the mounting surface of the hub to which the wheel is attached and the central axis of the hub, as vehicle-side mounting position information for the wheel. Each of the 3D part image data corresponding to the wheel includes, as part-side mounting position information, the mounting surface of the wheel attached to the mounting surface of the hub and the central axis of the wheel, and as replacement additional information, replacement information indicating the replacement. The aforementioned user terminal is After the 3D custom vehicle image acquisition means selects the wheels and tires from the custom parts information on the displayed custom screen, it transmits the custom request information, which includes the respective part identification information that can identify the selected wheels and tires, to the server. The server receives the custom screen information, which includes the customized 3D vehicle image and the custom parts information, in which the wheels and tires in the 3D vehicle image have been replaced with the selected wheels and tires. Based on the received custom screen information, the custom screen, which includes the customized 3D vehicle image and the custom parts information, is displayed. The aforementioned server, In the 3D custom vehicle image providing means, if the part identification information corresponding to the wheel and the part identification information corresponding to the tire are included in the custom request information, the 3D part image data of the wheel and the tire corresponding to the respective part identification information are extracted to create a 3D part image of the wheel with tire. When replacing the 3D part image of the wheel with tire in the 3D vehicle image before replacement with the created 3D part image of the wheel with tire, the replacement is performed so that the mounting surface and the central axis of the wheel in the created 3D part image of the wheel with tire overlap with the mounting surface and the central axis of the hub in the 3D vehicle image, thereby creating a customized 3D vehicle image that reproduces not only the virtual appearance of the wheel with tire but also the amount of protrusion or recess of the wheel with tire relative to the vehicle body in the 3D vehicle image. Vehicle customization support system.

3. A vehicle customization support system according to claim 1, The aforementioned custom parts are replacement exterior parts that replace some of the exterior parts of the vehicle body. The custom parts information on the custom screen displayed on the user terminal includes one or more of the replacement exterior parts. The 3D vehicle image data includes information relating to the vehicle-side mounting position, which is the mounting position on the vehicle body to which the part to be replaced is attached, as vehicle-side mounting position information for the replacement exterior part. Each of the 3D component image data corresponding to the respective replacement exterior part includes, as part-side mounting position information, information related to the part-side mounting position, which is the mounting position of the replacement exterior part to be attached to the vehicle-side mounting position, and as replacement additional information, replacement information indicating the replacement. The aforementioned user terminal is After the replacement exterior part is selected from the custom parts information on the custom screen displayed by the 3D custom vehicle image acquisition means, the custom request information including the part identification information that can identify the selected replacement exterior part is sent to the server, the custom screen information including the customized 3D vehicle image and the custom parts information is received from the server, the replacement target part in the 3D vehicle image has been replaced with the selected replacement exterior part, and the custom screen including the customized 3D vehicle image and the custom parts information is displayed based on the received custom screen information. The aforementioned server, In the 3D custom vehicle image providing means, if the part identification information corresponding to the replacement exterior part is included in the custom request information, the 3D part image data of the replacement exterior part corresponding to the part identification information is extracted to create a 3D part image of the replacement exterior part. When replacing the 3D part image of the part to be replaced in the 3D vehicle image before replacement with the created 3D part image of the replacement exterior part, the replacement is performed so that the mounting position on the part side in the created 3D part image of the replacement exterior part and the mounting position on the vehicle side relative to the part to be replaced in the 3D vehicle image overlap, thereby creating a customized 3D vehicle image that reproduces not only the virtual appearance of the replacement exterior part but also the amount of protrusion or recess of the replacement exterior part relative to the vehicle body in the 3D vehicle image. Vehicle customization support system.

4. A vehicle customization support system according to claim 1, The aforementioned custom parts are additional exterior parts that are attached to designated locations on the vehicle body. The custom parts information on the custom screen displayed on the user terminal includes one or more of the additional exterior parts. The 3D vehicle image data includes information relating to the vehicle-side mounting position, which is the mounting position on the vehicle body to which the additional exterior part is attached, as vehicle-side mounting position information for the additional exterior part. Each of the 3D part image data corresponding to the additional exterior part includes, as part-side mounting position information, information related to the part-side mounting position, which is the mounting position of the additional exterior part to be attached to the vehicle-side mounting position, and as replacement additional information, additional information indicating the addition. The aforementioned user terminal is After the additional exterior part is selected from the custom parts information on the custom screen displayed by the 3D custom vehicle image acquisition means, the custom request information including the part identification information that can identify the selected additional exterior part is sent to the server, the customized 3D vehicle image with the selected additional exterior part added to a predetermined position on the vehicle body in the 3D vehicle image, and the customized screen information including the custom parts information are received from the server, and the customized screen including the customized 3D vehicle image and the custom parts information is displayed based on the received customized screen information. The aforementioned server, In the 3D custom vehicle image providing means, if the part identification information corresponding to the additional exterior part is included in the custom request information, the 3D part image data of the additional exterior part corresponding to the part identification information is extracted to create a 3D part image of the additional exterior part, and when adding the created 3D part image of the additional exterior part to the 3D vehicle image before addition, the mounting position on the part side in the created 3D part image of the additional exterior part is matched with the mounting position on the vehicle side in the 3D vehicle image, thereby creating a customized 3D vehicle image that reproduces not only the virtual appearance of the additional exterior part but also the amount of protrusion or recess of the additional exterior part relative to the vehicle body in the 3D vehicle image. Vehicle customization support system.

5. A vehicle customization support program that displays the virtual appearance of a customized vehicle, which has been customized by replacing or adding custom parts to a vehicle, on a user terminal connected to a server via a network, The aforementioned vehicle customization support program, The system includes a terminal program that controls the operation of the user terminal and a server program that controls the operation of the server. The aforementioned server, 3D vehicle image data including vehicle type information that can identify the exterior of the vehicle, which includes custom parts information relating to a list of custom parts that can be installed on the vehicle, and vehicle side mounting position information relating to the vehicle side mounting position which is the location where the custom parts to be replaced or added are installed, 3D part image data including: 3D image data of a custom part corresponding to part identification information that can identify the custom part, part-side mounting position information which is information related to the part-side mounting position which is the position where the custom part is attached to the vehicle-side mounting position; the vehicle-side mounting position corresponding to the part-side mounting position; and replacement / addition information indicating whether the custom part is of the replacement type or the addition type; It has a memory device that stores, The aforementioned terminal program The aforementioned user terminal, A 3D base vehicle image acquisition means that, after the vehicle model information and body color information are input, transmits base vehicle information including the vehicle model information and body color information to the server, receives custom screen information including a 3D vehicle image based on the vehicle model information and body color information and custom parts information from the server, and displays a custom screen including the 3D vehicle image and custom parts information based on the received custom screen information. 3D custom vehicle image acquisition means, after one or more items are selected from the custom parts information on the custom screen, sends custom request information including the part identification information corresponding to the selected items to the server, receives custom screen information from the server including the customized 3D vehicle image in which a part of the 3D vehicle image has been replaced with a 3D part image of the custom part, or the customized 3D vehicle image in which the 3D part image has been added to the 3D vehicle image, and the custom parts information, and displays the customized screen including the customized 3D vehicle image and the custom parts information based on the received custom screen information. When a 3D image operation instruction is received, including an instruction to change the orientation and size of the 3D vehicle image on the custom screen displayed by the 3D base vehicle image acquisition means or the 3D custom vehicle image acquisition means, the 3D image processing means performs image operations, including changing the orientation and size of the 3D vehicle image, in response to the 3D image operation instruction. To make it function as, The aforementioned server program, The aforementioned server, A 3D base vehicle image providing means that, upon receiving the base vehicle information from the user terminal, extracts the 3D vehicle image data corresponding to the vehicle model information contained in the received base vehicle information, creates the 3D vehicle image based on the extracted 3D vehicle image data and the body color information contained in the base vehicle information, creates the custom screen information including the created 3D vehicle image and the custom parts information contained in the extracted 3D vehicle image data, and transmits it to the user terminal. 3D Custom Vehicle Image Providing Means: When receiving the custom request information from the user terminal, extracts the 3D component image data corresponding to the part identification information contained in the received custom request information, and based on the 3D vehicle image data and the 3D component image data, creates a customized 3D vehicle image by replacing a portion of the 3D vehicle image included in the custom screen information transmitted to the user terminal with the 3D component image data, or creates a customized 3D vehicle image by adding the 3D component image data to the 3D vehicle image included in the custom screen information transmitted to the user terminal, creates the customized screen information including the created customized 3D vehicle image and the custom part information, and transmits it to the user terminal. To make it function as, The aforementioned server program, When the server is used as a means to provide the 3D custom vehicle image to create the customized 3D vehicle image, the amount of protrusion from the vehicle body, the amount of recess from the vehicle body, or the amount of deformation of the custom part from the vehicle body is virtually reproduced in three dimensions in the customized 3D vehicle image based on the vehicle-side mounting position information and the part-side mounting position information. When the server is used as a means for providing 3D custom vehicle images to create the customized 3D vehicle image, if the replaced or added custom parts protrude from the vehicle body, and the amount of protrusion exceeds the regulatory limit, the customized 3D vehicle image will be created including warning information. Vehicle customization support program.

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