Apparatus, methods, programs, and systems

Abstract

To provide a device, a method, a program, and a system that easily grasp situations of competitions.SOLUTION: An information processing system in which a plurality of user terminals, a passing point terminal and a management device are interconnected to one another through a network comprises: stage display means which causes the terminals to display processes from a start to a goal in a plurality of stages on main screens 50 of the user terminals 100 when competitors compete with each other for their times from the start to the goal; and competitor number display means which causes the terminals to display information showing the numbers of competitors in competition in the stages or the numbers of competitors having finished the stages in each of the stages.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an apparatus, a method, a program, and a system.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a real-time position information providing device including an identification information transmitting device that is worn by a competitor running on a competition course and transmits identification information that can identify the competitor, a point communication terminal that is arranged at each of a plurality of passing points on the competition course, receives the identification information transmitted from the identification information transmitting device moving around the passing point, and transmits passing information together with the identification information, and a passing time information output means that transmits passing time information to a browsing communication terminal possessed by a person watching the competitor based on the identification information and the passing information transmitted from the point communication terminal. The browsing communication terminal has a position information output means capable of displaying and outputting the estimated position of the competitor.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] By the way, in a predetermined competition such as a triathlon or a marathon, a large number of competitors participate. In such a competition, as the competition progresses, a competitor may suspend the competition, so-called retire, due to an injury or an accident. Then, the competition operator needs to grasp the situation of the competition, for example, by recording the competitors who have retired.

[0005] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a system or the like that can easily grasp the situation of a competition.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] To this end, the technology disclosed herein is a device comprising: a stage display means for displaying the process from start to finish in a terminal in a competition in which competitors compete to see who can finish the race the fastest; and a competitor count display means for displaying information on the terminal for each stage indicating the number of competitors competing in the race or the number of competitors who have finished the stage. Furthermore, it is preferable to include a means for displaying the leading and last-placed competitors on the terminal. Furthermore, if the competition is one in which multiple events are performed consecutively, the stage display means may display the number of competitors who have completed each event as a number on the terminal. Furthermore, the system may include a violation notification means for notifying an approver of violation information, which is information indicating a competitor's violation in the competition; an approval receiving means for receiving information approving the competitor's violation in response to an operation by the approver; and a penalty output means for outputting information to a terminal indicating that a penalty will be imposed on the competitor due to the approved violation. Furthermore, the violation information may include a violation image, which is an image showing the competitor's violation. Furthermore, it is preferable to include a withdrawal image receiving means for receiving a withdrawal image, which is an image indicating a participant who has withdrawn from the competition; an image output means for outputting the withdrawal image to the inputter; and a withdrawal output means for outputting information indicating the withdrawal person to a terminal in response to input by the inputter. Furthermore, the withdrawal image may include an image of the withdrawal person's identification number in the competition, and the withdrawal person output means may output information indicating the withdrawal person to the terminal upon receiving input of the identification number from the input person. Furthermore, it is preferable to include a course image display means for displaying an image of the competition course on the terminal, a location image display means for displaying location images indicating multiple locations on the competition course on the terminal, and a mode switching means for switching the display mode of the location images indicating locations among the multiple locations where traffic restrictions have been lifted. Furthermore, it is preferable to include an occurrence output means for outputting occurrence information, which is information indicating that an event has occurred that should cause the competition to be canceled while it is being held, to the organizer of the competition; a reception means for receiving instructions to cancel the competition in response to an operation by the organizer; and a cancellation information output means for outputting information indicating the occurrence of the event and information indicating the cancellation of the competition to personnel stationed at the competition course. Furthermore, the cancellation information output means may output guidance images, which are images showing the content to be announced to the competitors, to the person in charge, and switch the guidance images according to the type of event. Furthermore, the cancellation information output means may switch the guidance image according to the location on the competition course.

[0007] From another perspective, the technology disclosed herein includes: a stage display means for displaying the process from start to finish in stages on a terminal in a competition in which competitors compete to see who can finish the race the fastest; a competitor count display means for displaying information on the terminal for each stage indicating the number of competitors competing in the race or the number of competitors who have finished the race; a course image display means for displaying an image of the race course on the terminal; a location image display means for displaying location images indicating multiple locations on the race course on the terminal; and information indicating that traffic restrictions at a location have been lifted in response to an operation by a person in charge of that location. The device comprises: a cancellation information receiving means for receiving certain cancellation information; a mode switching means for switching the display mode of the location image corresponding to the cancellation information in conjunction with the receipt of the cancellation information; an occurrence output means for outputting occurrence information, which is information indicating that an event has occurred that should cancel the ongoing competition, to the organizer of the competition; a receiving means for receiving instructions to cancel the competition in conjunction with an operation by the organizer; and a cancellation information display means for displaying information indicating the occurrence of the event, information indicating the cancellation of the competition, and a guidance image, which is an image indicating what should be conveyed to the competitors, on a terminal, and switching the guidance image according to the type of event.

[0008] From yet another perspective, the technology disclosed herein is a method for a competition in which competitors compete to see who can complete the race the fastest from start to finish, by dividing the process from start to finish into multiple stages and displaying them on a terminal, and displaying information on the terminal for each stage indicating the number of competitors currently competing or the number of competitors who have completed the stage.

[0009] From yet another perspective, the technology disclosed herein is a program that causes a computer to perform the following steps: display on a terminal the process from start to finish in a competition in which competitors compete to see who can finish the race the fastest; and display on the terminal, for each stage, information indicating the number of competitors currently competing or the number of competitors who have finished the stage.

[0010] From yet another perspective, the technology disclosed herein is a system comprising a user-operated terminal and a management device capable of communicating with the terminal via a network, wherein the management device includes a stage display means for displaying the process from start to finish in multiple stages on the terminal in a competition in which competitors compete to see who can finish the race the fastest, and a competitor count display means for displaying information on the terminal for each stage indicating the number of competitors in the competition or the number of competitors who have finished the stage. [Effects of the Invention]

[0011] According to the present invention, a system is provided that makes it easy to understand the situation of a competition. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0012] [Figure 1] This figure shows an example of the overall configuration of an information processing system to which this embodiment is applied. [Figure 2] This is a diagram illustrating an example configuration of a control device. [Figure 3] This is a flowchart showing the operation of an information processing system. [Figure 4]It is a diagram showing a management image. [Figure 5] It is a diagram showing a main image. [Figure 6] It is a diagram showing a motorcycle part image. [Figure 7] It is a flowchart showing penalty processing. [Figure 8] It is a diagram explaining penalty input. [Figure 9] It is a diagram showing a penalty evidence image. [Figure 10] It is a diagram showing a penalty management image. [Figure 11] It is a flowchart showing retirement processing. [Figure 12] It is a diagram explaining a retirement input image. [Figure 13] It is a diagram showing a retired competitor image. [Figure 14] It is a flowchart showing competition suspension processing. [Figure 15] It is a diagram showing a competition suspension instruction image. [Figure 16] It is a diagram explaining a traffic control release image. [Figure 17] It is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the management device. [Figure 18] It is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the user terminal.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0013] Hereinafter, other embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. <Information Processing System 1> FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an overall configuration example of an information processing system 1 to which the present embodiment is applied. As shown in FIG. 1, the information processing system 1 includes user terminals 100, 200, 300, a passing point terminal 400, and a management device 500. The user terminals 100, 200, 300, the passing point terminal 400, and the management device 500 are connected to each other via a network NW.

[0014] Each of the user terminals 100, 200, and 300 consists of a computer device such as a smartphone, notebook computer, desktop computer, tablet computer, wearable device, or mobile phone. User terminals 100, 200, 300 and the transit point terminal 400 function as clients in the information processing system 1.

[0015] Here, user terminals 100, 200, and 300 are operated by users of the information processing system 1. In the following example, user terminal 100 is, for example, an example of a competition organizer, and is operated by a person in charge positioned on the course. User terminal 200 is, for example, an example of a competition organizer, and is operated by a person in charge of data entry. User terminal 300 is, for example, an example of a competition organizer, and is operated by the chief referee, who is responsible for officiating the competition. In the illustrated example, three user terminals 100, 200, and 300 are shown, but the number is not particularly limited and may include terminals other than user terminals 100, 200, and 300. Also, in the following explanation, when user terminals 100, 200, and 300 are not distinguished, they may be referred to as user terminal 100, etc.

[0016] The checkpoint terminal 400 is comprised of a computer device such as a notebook computer, desktop computer, tablet computer, smartphone, wearable device, or mobile phone. The checkpoint terminal 400 detects sensors S1 and S3, which are attached to ankle bands or bibs worn by competitors R1 and R3, at checkpoints designated on the course of the competition, using well-known wireless communication technology. The detection of sensors S1 and S3 by the checkpoint terminal 400 indicates that each competitor wearing sensors S1 and S2 has passed the designated checkpoint. In the illustrated example, one checkpoint terminal 400 is shown, but the number is not particularly limited, and multiple checkpoint terminals 400 may be provided.

[0017] The management device 500 is comprised of a computer. This management device 500 functions as a server in the information processing system 1. In this embodiment, the management device 500 performs various controls necessary to support users operating user terminals 100, 200, and 300.

[0018] A network (NW) is a communication network used for data exchange between devices. The network (NW) shown in the diagram is composed of the Internet, but is not particularly limited. The network (NW) may be, for example, a LAN (Local Area Network) or a WAN (Wide Area Network). Furthermore, the communication lines of the network (NW) may be wired or wireless, or a combination of both.

[0019] Information processing system 1 enables users operating user terminals 100, etc., to use specific services provided by the management device 500. As an example of operator support, information processing system 1 supports users by outputting competition information to user terminals 100, etc. For example, information processing system 1 supports the user, who is the operator of the competition, by having the management device 500 acquire competitor information via the checkpoint terminal 400.

[0020] (User) Users of Information Processing System 1 include, for example, the organizers of a competition. These organizers include the competition's judges, guides at the competition venue, technical staff who manage the equipment used in the competition, doctors, nurses, police officers, firefighters, etc. The organizers may also include spectators of the competition, such as the competitors' families and friends, or residents living near the competition venue.

[0021] (Competition Information) Competition information refers to information about the athletes participating in the competition. This competition information includes user information, race information, and operational information. User information is information about the athlete. User information includes the athlete's name, athlete number (race number), gender, age, address, etc. Race information is information about the athlete's competition results. Race information includes the start time of the competition, the end time of the competition, the time (time) of passing designated points (checkpoints), the athlete's position, ranking in the competition, whether or not there was a retirement, whether or not there was a penalty, etc. Operational information is information about the operation of the competition. Operational information includes whether or not the competition was canceled, whether or not traffic restrictions were lifted, etc.

[0022] (Competition) A competition is a contest in which participants compete to complete a predetermined distance (course) in the shortest time (speed). In the following explanation, triathlon will be used as an example of a competition. Triathlon is a sport that consists of three consecutive events: swimming, cycling, and running. In addition, in a triathlon, the act of athletes changing their clothing, shoes, etc., when switching from swimming to cycling, and from cycling to running, is called a transition. Also, in a triathlon, the area where each athlete performs their transition is called a transition space.

[0023] It should be noted that the competition is not limited to triathlon. For example, the competition includes marathons, duathlons, aquathlons, mountain races, cycling races, adventure races, and walking competitions. Furthermore, the competition can be considered an endurance sport.

[0024] (Penalty) Violations in a competition include, for example, false starts, going off course, improper equipment storage, improper bicycle riding, improper bicycle dismounting, improper dumping of equipment or garbage, and the use of non-standard equipment. When a violation occurs in a competition, the athlete who committed the violation will be penalized. A penalty is a punishment imposed in a competition. One example of a penalty imposed in a triathlon is a time penalty. Athletes who receive this time penalty are required to wait for a predetermined time, such as two minutes, in a designated area called a penalty box on the course before reaching the finish line.

[0025] (Retirement) In a competition, retirement means that a competitor stops continuing the competition, or withdraws. Retirement is carried out, for example, by the competitor notifying (declaring) the organizers. Reasons for retirement include injuries, illness, or accidents such as bicycle malfunctions. In triathlon, if a competitor fails to pass the finish line or designated checkpoint (checkpoint) for each event within the time limit, they must stop competing. Stopping competing due to failure to pass a checkpoint may also be considered retirement.

[0026] (Cancellation of the competition) Cancellation of a competition means that the organizers decide to stop the entire competition from continuing. This includes canceling the start of the competition altogether. Reasons for cancellation of a competition include, for example, unfavorable weather conditions such as the formation of thunderstorms, earthquakes, and accidents during the competition.

[0027] <Management device 500> Figure 2 is a diagram illustrating an example configuration of the control device 500. Next, we will explain an example configuration of the control device 500 with reference to Figures 1 and 2.

[0028] The management device 500 includes a competitor management unit 51, a competition progress management unit 52, a penalty processing unit 53, a retirement processing unit 54, a competition cancellation processing unit 55, and an operational status management unit 57. Each of the competitor management unit 51, the competition progress management unit 52, the penalty processing unit 53, the retirement processing unit 54, the competition cancellation processing unit 55, and the operational status management unit 57 can be considered a subsystem of the information processing system 1.

[0029] The Athlete Management Unit 51 manages the user information of each athlete. Specifically, the Athlete Management Unit 51 performs the athlete registration process, which is the process related to the registration procedure that athletes perform at the competition venue on the day of the competition to participate in the competition. The Athlete Management Unit 51 acquires and stores the user information of athletes who have completed the registration procedure via the user terminal 100, etc. The Athlete Management Unit 51 also outputs the user information to the user terminal 100, etc.

[0030] The race progress management unit 52 manages the progress information of the race. Specifically, the race progress management unit 52 performs a race start process to receive a signal indicating that the race has started, and a race end process to receive a signal indicating that the race has ended. The race progress management unit 52 also acquires and stores race information via the checkpoint terminal 400. The race progress management unit 52 also outputs race information to the user terminal 100, etc.

[0031] The penalty processing unit 53 manages penalties for violations that occur during the competition. As will be described in detail later, the penalty processing unit 53 acquires and stores penalty information, which is a part of the race information, via the user terminal 100, etc. The penalty processing unit 53 also outputs the penalty information to the user terminal 100, etc.

[0032] The retirement processing unit 54 manages the retirement of competitors during a race. As will be described in detail later, the retirement processing unit 54 acquires and stores retirement information, which is one of the race information items, via the user terminal 100 or the like. The retirement processing unit 54 also outputs the retirement information to the user terminal 100 or the like.

[0033] The race cancellation processing unit 55 manages information in the event of race cancellation. As will be explained in detail later, the race cancellation processing unit 55 acquires and stores cancellation information, which is one of the operational information, via the user terminal 100, etc. Specifically, the race cancellation processing unit 55 acquires and stores as cancellation information weather information around the race venue, earthquake occurrence information, and accident occurrence information during the race. The race cancellation processing unit 55 also outputs the cancellation information to the user terminal 100, etc.

[0034] The operational status management system 57 manages information necessary for running the competition. The operational status management system 57 acquires and stores traffic information, which is one type of operational information, via user terminals 100, etc. Specifically, the operational status management system 57 acquires and stores information such as whether or not there are traffic restrictions at various points around the competition venue as traffic information. The operational status management system 57 also outputs traffic information to user terminals 100, etc.

[0035] <Operation of Information Processing System 1> Figure 3 is a flowchart showing the operation of the information processing system 1. Next, with reference to Figure 3, the operation of the information processing system 1 executed by the management device 500 will be explained.

[0036] First, the athlete management unit 51 performs athlete registration processing from the user terminal 100 in response to an operation from the user (S301). Then, the competition progress management unit 52, in response to an operation from the administrator, receives a competition start signal from the user terminal 300 operated by the chief referee and performs competition start processing to input competition start information (S302).

[0037] Next, the race progress management unit 52 performs race progress management processing based on user passage information received from the checkpoint terminal 400 (S303). Then, the penalty processing unit 53 performs penalty processing (S304). The retirement processing unit 54 performs retirement processing (S305). The race cancellation processing unit 55 performs race cancellation processing (S306).

[0038] Next, the competition progress management unit 52 determines whether it has received a competition end signal from the user terminal 300 (S307). If the management device 500 has received a competition end signal (YES in S307), the competition progress management unit 52 performs a competition end process (S308) to input information about the end of the competition.

[0039] <Management Image 40> Figure 4 shows the control image 40. Next, referring to Figure 4, the management image 40 displayed on the user terminal 100 etc. by the competition progress management unit 52 will be explained. The management image 40 is an image that allows the operator operating the user terminal 100 etc. to display competitor information, etc.

[0040] In the illustrated example, the management image 40 includes a main image icon 401 that displays the main image, a swim image icon 402 that displays swim images, which are information about the swim part, a bike image icon 403 that displays bike images, which are information about the bike part, a run image icon 404 that displays run images, which are information about the run part, a progress image icon 405 that displays the progress of each athlete in the competition, a retired image icon 406 that displays a retired (Did Not Finish, DNF) image, a penalty display icon 407 that displays a penalty image, and a weather information image display 408 that displays a weather information image. By the user operating the icons included in these management images 40 (such as the main image icon 401), the information output to the user terminal 100, etc., is switched.

[0041] <Main Image 50> Figure 5 shows the main image 50. Next, with reference to Figure 5, we will explain the main image 50 displayed on the user terminal 100, etc. The main image 50 shown is the "Main Manage screen" and is the image displayed on the user terminal 100. This main image 50 is a diagram showing the progress of all competitors in the competition. The main image 50 can be understood as an image that displays information necessary for managing the competition. The main image 50 shows the number of competitors who have completed each stage of the competition, including the stage before the start of the competition for each competitor, in numerical form.

[0042] To further explain, the stages in the illustrated example include the number of participants scheduled to take part in the competition (number of entries), the number of registered competitors who have completed the registration process, and the number of competitors who have obtained timing chips. Furthermore, whether a competitor has completed each event is detected, for example, by placing a checkpoint terminal 400 at the end point of each event, and this checkpoint terminal 400 detecting sensors S1 and S2 (see Figure 1) attached to the competitor. As shown in the illustrated example, the number of people who have completed each stage is displayed in order, making it easy to understand the progress of the competition.

[0043] In the illustrated example, the number of people who have completed each stage is shown, but this is not the only way to display it. For example, the number of competitors currently performing each stage may be displayed. Furthermore, the number of people who have completed each stage or the number of competitors currently performing each stage is not limited to being displayed numerically. For example, it may be a number indicating the percentage of the total number of competitors, a shape that changes according to this percentage, or a shape or color indicating the number of competitors. For example, the number of shapes of a predetermined shape, such as a star, may increase for every 10% increase in the percentage of competitors to the total, or the color of a predetermined column may change.

[0044] Furthermore, while the illustrated example shows each stage divided by event, it is not limited to this. For example, the stages may be divided and displayed by the distance (section) of the competition, the number of laps, or by checkpoints set up on the course.

[0045] <Motorcycle part image 60> Figure 6 shows the motorcycle part image 60. Next, with reference to Figure 6, the bike part image 60 displayed on the user terminal 100 will be explained. The bike part image 60 is an image displayed on the user terminal 100 and is a diagram that shows the progress of the bike race. The illustrated bike part image 60 includes a course image 601 showing the race course on a map, a ranking image 602 showing the race numbers of the leading group and the last group, a start / end number 603 showing the number of competitors who have started (BS) and finished (BF) the bike race, a number of competitors 604 showing the number of competitors competing in the bike part, an estimated passing time 605 showing the predicted passing times of the leading and last competitors, a retirement indicator 606 showing the race number of a competitor who has retired from the race, and a leading competitor indicator 607 showing the position of the leading competitor on the race course.

[0046] In this way, the motorcycle part image 60 displays the progress of the competition using numbers and images, including the position of the leading competitor, the number of competitors, and the estimated time of passage. This makes it easy for organizers to keep track of the progress of the competition.

[0047] In the illustrated example, the competition progress management unit 52 calculates the predicted passing times for the leading and last competitors and displays them as the predicted passing times 605. The predicted passing times are calculated from the competition progress of the target competitors using well-known techniques.

[0048] Displaying the estimated time of the last competitor's passage, as well as the number of competitors at the end of the pack and their race number, makes it easier for organizers to determine, for example, when to lift traffic restrictions. In the illustrated example, the display of the leading competitor marker 607 is explained, but instead of, or in conjunction with, the leading competitor marker 607, a display indicating the position of the last competitor may be shown.

[0049] The retirement indicator 606 displays only the race number of the athlete who has retired. By displaying only the race number, retirement information can be output in a limited area, and it becomes easier for the organizers to identify the relevant athlete. The retirement indicator 606 may also be color-coded according to the stage at which the athlete retired (for example, swim part, bike part, or run part). In addition to the race number, other information such as the athlete's name may also be displayed.

[0050] <Penalty Processing> Figure 7 is a flowchart showing the penalty processing. Next, with reference to Figure 7, the penalty processing performed by the penalty processing unit 53 will be explained.

[0051] First, an overview of the penalty processing in this embodiment will be provided. In this embodiment, it is required that at least two operators make a judgment before imposing a penalty on the competitor in question. Specifically, for example, an operator placed on the course receives a signal from a user terminal 100 that indicates the competitor in question has committed a violation. Then, if another operator, such as the chief referee, confirms that the competitor in question has committed a predetermined violation from a user terminal 300, a penalty is imposed on the competitor in question. By requiring signals to be received from two user terminals in this way, the possibility of a competitor being mistakenly penalized is suppressed.

[0052] Next, the penalty processing will be explained in detail. As shown in Figure 7, the penalty processing unit 53 receives penalty information from the user terminal 100, etc. (S701). The penalty processing unit 53 then outputs the penalty information to the user terminal 300 operated by the approver who approves the penalty, such as the chief referee (S702). The penalty processing unit 53 then determines whether the approver has approved the penalty information from the user terminal 300 based on their actions (S703).

[0053] If approval of the penalty information is received (Yes in S703), the penalty processing unit 53 outputs a penalty execution instruction to the user terminal 100, etc., which is an instruction to impose a penalty on the target athlete (S704). The penalty processing unit 53 also executes a penalty registration process to record the penalty (S705). In this penalty registration process, for example, a penalty management image 1000 (see Figure 10 described later) is displayed on the user terminal 100, etc., as information indicating that a penalty has been imposed on the target user.

[0054] On the other hand, if the approval of the penalty information is not accepted (NO in S703), the penalty processing unit 53 determines whether a cancellation process has been accepted (S706). If a cancellation process has been accepted (YES in S706), the penalty processing unit 53 executes a cancellation process to cancel the accepted penalty (S707). Also, if the cancellation process is not accepted (NO in S706), the penalty processing unit 53 determines again whether the approval process for the penalty has been accepted (S703).

[0055] In the illustrated example, if a cancellation request is received (YES in S706), the penalty processing unit 53 executes the cancellation process (see S707). During this cancellation process, the penalty processing unit 53 stores the received penalty information. Even if no penalty is actually imposed, storing the penalty information allows the organizers to verify, for example, whether the handling of penalties was accurate after the competition has ended.

[0056] <Penalty Input> Figure 8 illustrates penalty input. Next, the penalty input image 80 and penalty registration image 85 displayed on the user terminal 100, etc., will be explained with reference to Figures 8(A) and (B).

[0057] The penalty input image 80 shown in Figure 8(A) is an image displayed on the user terminal 100, and is used to input penalty information indicating that a penalty has occurred. This penalty input image 80 is displayed on the user terminal 100, for example, by operating the penalty indicator icon 407 (see Figure 4) on the management image 40.

[0058] The penalty input image 80 includes a type input area 801 for registering the type of violation subject to penalty, an occurrence time input area 803 for registering the time when the violation subject to penalty occurred, an image input area 805 for inputting evidence images that serve as proof of the violation, and a registration icon 807 for registering the information entered in the type input area 801, etc.

[0059] The penalty registration image 85 shown in Figure 8(B) is an image displayed on the user terminal 300 operated by the chief referee or the like, and is used to input the penalty approval instruction. By inputting the penalty approval instruction via the penalty registration image 85, it is confirmed that a penalty will be imposed on the athlete. The penalty registration image 85 includes a target image 851 indicating the athlete subject to the penalty, a confirmation icon 853 which is an icon for approving (confirming) the imposition of the penalty, a cancel icon (not shown) which is an icon for inputting an instruction not to approve the imposition of the penalty, i.e., to cancel it, and an update icon 855 for updating to the latest penalty information.

[0060] Figure 9 shows the penalty evidence image 90. Next, we will explain the penalty evidence image 90 with reference to Figure 9. In this embodiment, the system receives penalty information from the user terminal 100, etc., including a penalty evidence image 90 acquired by the camera 108 (see Figure 18, described later) of the user terminal 100, etc. This penalty evidence image 90 is image data that serves as evidence of a penalty. When the chief judge, who is the approver, approves the penalty, that is, when the penalty is finalized, the penalty evidence image 90 can be displayed on the user terminal 300 operated by the chief judge. Furthermore, when the penalty registration process is executed (see S705), the penalty processing unit 53 stores the penalty evidence image 90. This penalty evidence image 90 makes the decision to impose a penalty more accurate.

[0061] The illustrated example of penalty evidence image 90 includes a storage box 901, a base number display 903, and goggles 905. Here, penalty evidence image 90 is an image of evidence of a violation of equipment storage. This equipment storage violation is when a competitor fails to store their equipment in the designated place (in the illustrated example, the box) in the transition space.

[0062] Furthermore, the penalty evidence image 90 in the illustrated example shows that the goggles 905, which should be stored inside the storage box 901, are left outside the storage box 901. As a result, the competitor with race number "201," indicated by the base number display 903, will be penalized for a violation of equipment storage.

[0063] Furthermore, by recording the penalty evidence image 90, not only the chief referee, who is the administrator, but also the athletes themselves can confirm the fact of the penalty after the match or even during the match.

[0064] Figure 10 shows a penalty management image 1000. Next, with reference to Figure 10, the penalty management image 1000 that is output to the user terminal 100, etc., in the penalty execution instruction (see S704) will be explained. Penalty management image 1000 includes race number 1001, competitor name 1003, penalty type 1005, corresponding display 1007, time of occurrence 1009, and details 1011.

[0065] In the illustrated penalty management image 1000, a list of players who have been penalized is displayed. In the example shown, if a player is penalized multiple times, all penalties are displayed. This prevents the game from ending without some of the penalties being imposed when a player is penalized multiple times.

[0066] Now, once a player subject to a penalty has waited in the penalty box for the prescribed time, and the penalty is imposed, the corresponding display 1007 on the penalty management image 1000 is switched by, for example, a referee stationed in the penalty box. That is, the referee stationed in the penalty box operates the corresponding display 1007 and switches the image in the penalty column from "Not yet" to "Imposed." To explain further, it switches between "Not yet," which is before the penalty is imposed, and "Imposed," which is after the penalty is imposed. In this way, by switching the image in conjunction with the execution of a penalty, referees and other administrators can easily understand which player should be penalized. In addition, the names of players who do not need to be penalized are not displayed on the penalty management image 1000. This prevents penalties from being imposed on the wrong player.

[0067] <Retirement Processing> Figure 11 is a flowchart showing the retirement process. Next, we will explain the retirement process with reference to Figure 11. First, the outline of the retirement process in this embodiment will be described. In this embodiment, when accepting the retirement of a target competitor, operations from at least two operators are accepted. Specifically, for example, a signal indicating that the target competitor is retiring is received from a user terminal 100 operated by an operator placed on the course. Then, when an instruction to register the retirement of the target competitor is received from a user terminal 200 operated by another operator, the retirement process for the target competitor is completed. By requiring signals to be received from two user terminals in this way, the workload of operators placed on the course is reduced, while preventing the mistaken retirement process from being performed on the wrong competitor.

[0068] Next, the retirement process will be explained in detail. As shown in Figure 11, when a competitor notifies the organizers stationed on the course, the retirement processing unit 54 receives retirement information, including a retirement image, from the user terminal 100 or the like (S1101). The retirement processing unit 54 then outputs the retirement image to the user terminal 200 operated by the person in charge of managing retirement information (S1102). The retirement processing unit 54 then determines whether or not it has received the race number from the person in charge via the user terminal 200 (S1103).

[0069] If the race number is received (YES in S1103), the retirement registration process is executed (S1104). In this retirement registration process, information indicating that the target user has retired, i.e., information indicating a withdrawal, is displayed on the main image 50 (see Figure 5) displayed on the user terminal 100, for example. This information indicating a withdrawal may be the number of withdrawals, the race numbers of the withdrawals, the names of the withdrawals, etc.

[0070] On the other hand, if the race number is not accepted (NO in S1103), the retirement processing unit 54 determines whether a cancellation request has been accepted (S1105). If a cancellation request has been accepted (YES in S1105), the retirement processing unit 54 executes the cancellation request (S1106). Also, if the cancellation request is not accepted (NO in S1105), the retirement processing unit 54 determines again whether the race number has been accepted (S1103).

[0071] In the illustrated example, if a cancellation request is received (YES in S1105), the retirement processing unit 54 executes the cancellation process (see S1106). During this cancellation process, the retirement processing unit 54 stores the received retirement information. Even if a participant does not actually retire, storing the retirement information in this way allows the organizers to verify, for example, whether their handling of retirements was accurate after the competition has ended.

[0072] In the illustrated example, the retirement registration process is described as being performed on the condition that the race number is received from the person in charge via the user terminal 200 (see S1103), but this is not limited to this. For example, the retirement registration process may be performed by receiving other operations from the person in charge, such as information indicating that the person in charge has approved it.

[0073] <Retirement Input> Figure 12 is a diagram illustrating the retirement input image 1200. Next, the retirement input image 1200 displayed on the user terminal 100, etc., will be explained with reference to Figure 12.

[0074] In this embodiment, the operator, upon receiving a retirement notification from a competitor, inputs the information via the retirement input image 1200. Specifically, the retirement input image 1200 is displayed on the user terminal 100, etc., as an image for receiving retirement information from the user terminal 100, etc. This retirement input image 1200 is displayed on the user terminal 100, for example, by operating the retirement image icon 406 (see Figure 4) of the management image 40.

[0075] The retirement input image 1200 shown in Figure 12 includes a competitor name reception area 1201 for receiving the competitor's name, a retirement type reception area 1203 for receiving the type of part in which the competitor will retire, a photo registration area 1205 for receiving a photo that serves as proof of retirement, and an information registration icon 1207 for registering the information entered in the competitor name reception area 1201, etc.

[0076] Figure 13 shows images 1300 of retired competitors. Next, we will explain the image 1300 of the retired competitors, referring to Figure 13. In this embodiment, the operator receives an image 1300 of a retired competitor as proof of retirement, and makes it available for other operators (person in charge) to display when registering retirements. This retired competitor image 1300 can be any image that allows identification of the retired competitor, for example, a photograph showing the race number.

[0077] In the example shown in Figure 13(A), the retired athlete image 1300 is an image of the ankle band 1301 worn by the athlete. This ankle band 1301 is equipped with a race number display 1303. In the example shown in Figure 13(B), the retired athlete image 1350 is an image of the bib number 1353 worn by athlete 1351. This bib number 1353 displays the race number. By registering images that include the race number in this way, the misidentification of retired athletes is suppressed.

[0078] Now, in the illustrated example, we have explained that the athlete's name, the type of retirement, and an image of the retired athlete are entered, but the system is not limited to this. For example, the location where the athlete retires may be entered. This location may be entered using location information from the GPS sensor 109 of the user terminal 100 (see Figure 18 described later), or by entering the distance from the starting point. Furthermore, if the cause of retirement is a problem such as a fall, accident, or bicycle malfunction, the system may accept input of the type of problem in addition to, or instead of, the location where the problem occurred. The system may also accept input such as whether an automated external defibrillator (AED) or ambulance is needed.

[0079] Furthermore, the user terminal 100 that registers retirement information may output information about the medical history of the retiring athlete. In addition, the athlete's retirement may be notified to the athlete's registered associates (e.g., family or friends).

[0080] <Cancellation of competition> Figure 14 is a flowchart showing the process for canceling a competition. Next, we will explain the procedure for canceling a competition, referring to Figure 14. In this competition cancellation process, the competition cancellation processing unit 55 detects the occurrence of an event (cancellation circumstance) that warrants canceling the competition, such as the formation of a thunderstorm within a predetermined range, based on weather information, and outputs information indicating the cancellation of the competition to a user terminal 300 operated by, for example, the chief referee. It then receives instructions from the chief referee to cancel the competition. This makes it possible to conduct the competition while ensuring the safety of the competitors and organizers.

[0081] To explain in more detail, first, the competition cancellation processing unit 55 receives information about the occurrence of a cancellation event (S1401). Then, the competition cancellation processing unit 55, having received the information about the occurrence of a cancellation event, outputs information indicating the cancellation event to the user terminal 300 operated by the chief referee or the like (S1402).

[0082] Next, the competition cancellation processing unit 55 determines whether it has received a competition cancellation instruction from the chief referee or the like via the user terminal 300 (S1403). If it has received a competition cancellation instruction (YES in S1403), the competition cancellation processing unit 55 outputs a competition cancellation instruction (S1404). Then, the competition cancellation processing unit 55 executes the competition cancellation registration process (S1405). In this competition cancellation registration process, for example, competition cancellation instruction images 1500 and 1550 (see Figure 15 described later) are displayed on the user terminal 100, etc.

[0083] On the other hand, if the instruction to cancel the competition is not accepted (NO in S1403), the competition cancellation processing unit 55 determines whether a cancellation process has been accepted (S1406). If a cancellation process has been accepted (YES in S1406), the competition cancellation processing unit 55 executes the cancellation process (S1407). If a cancellation process is not accepted (NO in S1406), the competition cancellation processing unit 55 determines again whether the instruction to cancel the competition has been accepted (S1403).

[0084] In the illustrated example, if a cancellation request is received (YES in S1406), the competition cancellation processing unit 55 executes the cancellation process (see S1407). During this cancellation process, the competition cancellation processing unit 55 stores the received information about the occurrence of the cancellation event. Even if the competition is not actually cancelled, storing the information about the occurrence of the cancellation event allows the organizers to verify, for example, whether their handling of the competition cancellation was accurate after the competition has ended.

[0085] Figure 15 shows images 1500 and 1550 indicating the instruction to stop the competition. Next, referring to Figure 15, we will explain the competition cancellation instruction images 1500 and 1550 that are output to the user terminal 100, etc., in the case of a competition cancellation instruction (see S1404).

[0086] As shown in Figure 15(A), the race cancellation instruction image 1500 includes a notification image 1501 that announces the cancellation of the race, a cause image 1503 that shows the reason for the race cancellation, and an instruction image 1505 that shows the instructions that the person in charge should give. In the example shown in Figure 15(A), as shown in the cause image 1503, the reason for the race cancellation is the occurrence of a thunderstorm. In this case, the instruction image 1505 outputs instructions to guide the competitors and people in the surrounding area to evacuate into a building.

[0087] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 15(B), the race cancellation instruction image 1550 includes a notification image 1551, a cause image 1553, and an instruction image 1557 showing the instructions that the person in charge should give. In the example shown in Figure 15(B), as shown in the cause image 1553, the cause of the race cancellation is an earthquake. In this case, the instruction image 1557 outputs instructions to guide the athletes and people in the surrounding area to higher ground. At this time, an image of the higher ground (shelter) to be evacuated to is also displayed. In the illustrated example, an image of a map showing the location of the shelter is displayed. The evacuation location displayed in this instruction image 1557 may change depending on the location of the user terminal 100, etc. (location on the course). For example, the instruction image 1557 may show the nearest evacuation location from each point.

[0088] As shown in Figures 15(A) and (B), by outputting competition cancellation instruction images 1500 and 1550 to user terminals 100, etc., even if an infrequent event occurs during the competition that the organizers are unfamiliar with, the actions each organizer should take will become clear, potentially leading to smoother competition management. Furthermore, in competition cancellation instruction images 1500 and 1550, the information output to user terminals 100, etc. will change depending on the cause of the cancellation, such as displaying cause images 1503 and 1553. This can further facilitate smoother competition management.

[0089] <Information on the lifting of traffic restrictions> Figure 16 is a diagram illustrating the lifting of traffic restrictions (image 1600). Next, we will explain the traffic restriction lifting image 1600 with reference to Figure 16.

[0090] First, the operational status management system 57 displays a traffic restriction removal image 1600 on a user terminal 100 operated by an operator positioned along the course. Each operator (person in charge) positioned along the course inputs the removal information via the traffic restriction removal image 1600 when the traffic restriction is lifted in their assigned area.

[0091] The traffic restriction lifting image 1600 includes an image selection 1601 of the person in charge assigned to each person in charge, an input area 1603 for receiving input of traffic restriction lifting, and an input transmission icon 1605 for transmitting the input information. The operation status management 57 receives information of traffic restriction lifting via the traffic restriction lifting image 1600 and generates information showing the traffic restriction status in the competition venue area. By outputting the generated information showing the traffic restriction status to a user terminal 100, etc., each person in charge can grasp the traffic restriction status, and for example, guidance of spectators and surrounding residents can be made more appropriate.

[0092] Information indicating the traffic restriction status on the course is output to the user terminal 100, for example, as an image as shown in Figure 16(B). In the illustrated example, the user terminal 100 displays an image 1650 showing the restriction status. This image 1650 includes a course image 1651 showing the competition course, and a first location image 1653 and a second location image 1655 showing locations along the competition course. Here, the first location image 1653 is displayed in a way that indicates that traffic restrictions are in place (with diagonal lines in the illustrated example). On the other hand, the second location image 1655 is displayed in a way that indicates that the traffic restrictions have been lifted (without diagonal lines in the illustrated example). In this way, by switching the display mode, such as the shape and color of the image, it becomes easy to understand the traffic restriction status on the competition course.

[0093] In the illustrated example, the person in charge is shown to input the lifting of traffic restrictions via the traffic restriction lifting image 1600, but this is not the only way. For example, the administrator may receive reports from each person in charge and input the lifting information. Alternatively, the administrator may determine whether the traffic restrictions have been lifted from images acquired by cameras installed at various locations along the competition course and input the lifting information.

[0094] <Hardware configuration of management device 500> Figure 17 shows an example of the hardware configuration of the management device 500. As shown in Figure 17, the management device 500 includes a CPU 501, RAM (Random Access Memory) 502, ROM (Read Only Memory) 503, HDD (Hard Disk Drive) 504, and a communication interface 505.

[0095] The CPU 501 loads various programs stored in the ROM 503, etc., into the RAM 502 and executes them, thereby realizing the above-mentioned functions of the management device 500. RAM502 is memory used as working memory for CPU501, etc. ROM503 is memory that stores various programs and other data executed by CPU501. HDD504 is a magnetic disk drive, for example, that stores user information and other data. The communication interface 505 transmits and receives various types of information with other devices via the network (see Figure 1).

[0096] Here, the program executed by the CPU 501 may be provided to the management device 500 while stored in a computer-readable recording medium such as semiconductor memory. Alternatively, the program executed by the CPU 501 may be downloaded to the user terminal 100, etc., via the management device 500. For example, the program that implements each of the above functions of the management device 500 may be downloaded to the user terminal 100, etc., as application software. The user then installs the downloaded application software on the user terminal 100, etc., and begins using the above service.

[0097] <Hardware configuration of user terminal 100> Figure 18 shows an example of the hardware configuration of user terminal 100. As shown in Figure 18, the user terminal 100 includes a CPU 101, RAM 102, ROM 103, storage unit 104, operation panel 105, speaker 106, microphone 107, camera 108, GPS sensor 109, and communication interface I / F 110.

[0098] The CPU 101 loads various programs stored in the ROM 103, etc., into the RAM 102 and executes them, thereby realizing the above-mentioned functions of the terminal 30. RAM102 is memory used as working memory for CPU101, etc. ROM103 is memory that stores various programs and other data executed by CPU101. The storage unit 104 is, for example, a flash memory that stores programs for various application software and various data used by those programs. The control panel 105 is, for example, a touch panel that displays various information and accepts user input.

[0099] Speaker 106 outputs various sounds, including the received audio from the other party in the call. Microphone 107 acquires various types of audio, including the user's speech. Camera 108 includes a lens and an image sensor such as a CMOS (Complementary Metal-Oxide Semiconductor) to capture images of a subject.

[0100] The GPS sensor 109 acquires GPS (Global Positioning System) signals and obtains location information of the user terminal 100. The communication interface 312 transmits and receives data with other communication devices via a network (see Figure 1), etc.

[0101] Here, the program executed by the CPU 101 may be provided to the user terminal 100 while stored in a computer-readable recording medium such as semiconductor memory. Alternatively, the program executed by the CPU 101 may be downloaded to the user terminal 100 via a network NW. For example, a program that implements each of the above functions of the user terminal 100 may be downloaded to the user terminal 100 as application software.

[0102] <Variation> In the example above, we explained how to output competition-related information to the operator's users, but this is not limited to that. For example, the above information may be output to a user terminal 100 carried by the competitors. Also, for example, when outputting the above information to the competitors, the location of each competitor may be displayed. This makes it easy for competitors to know each other's locations.

[0103] Furthermore, information about the athlete's own competition (athlete information) may be output to a user terminal 100 carried by the athlete. For example, the athlete's speed, heart rate, cadence, power output, etc., may be displayed on the user terminal 100.

[0104] Furthermore, while the above example described outputting penalty information using the penalty evidence image 90, it is not limited to this, as long as it is information indicating the occurrence of a violation that warrants a penalty. For example, instead of an image, it may be possible to output text or audio indicating the occurrence of a violation.

[0105] Furthermore, although the above example describes the competition cancellation processing unit 55 acquiring cancellation information via a user terminal 100, etc., it is not limited to this. For example, the cancellation information may be acquired via other terminals (not shown) connected via a network NW, or via sensors that detect weather information.

[0106] Although various embodiments and modifications have been described above, these embodiments and modifications can, of course, be combined to form a complete system. Furthermore, this disclosure is not limited in any way to the embodiments described above, and can be implemented in various forms without departing from the gist of this disclosure.

[0107] Information processing system 1 is an example of a system. Management device 500 is an example of a device. Competition progress management unit 52 is an example of a stage display means and a competitor number display means. Penalty processing unit 53 is an example of a violation notification means, an approval reception means and a penalty output means. Retirement processing unit 54 is an example of a withdrawal image reception means, an image output means and a withdrawal person output means. Operation status management unit 57 is an example of a course image display means, a location image display means and a mode switching means. Competition cancellation processing unit 55 is an example of an occurrence output means, a reception means, a cancellation information output means and a cancellation information display means. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0108] 1... Information processing system, 52... Competition progress management unit, 53... Penalty processing unit, 54... Retirement processing unit, 55... Competition cancellation processing unit, 57... Operation status management, 500... Management device

Claims

1. In a competition in which competitors compete to see who can complete the course from start to finish the fastest time, a stage display means for displaying the process from start to finish in multiple stages on a terminal, A means for displaying the number of competitors, which displays information on the terminal for each stage indicating the number of competitors currently competing or the number of competitors who have completed the stage, Equipped with, An occurrence output means for outputting occurrence information, which is information indicating that an event has occurred that should cause the competition to be canceled during the competition, to the organizer of the competition, A means for receiving instructions to cancel the competition in accordance with the actions of the aforementioned operator, A cancellation information output means that outputs information indicating the occurrence of the aforementioned event and information indicating the cancellation of the aforementioned competition to personnel stationed at the competition course, A device equipped with the following features.

2. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the cancellation information output means outputs a guidance image, which is an image showing the content to be announced to the competitor, to the person in charge, and switches the guidance image according to the type of event.

3. The apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the cancellation information output means switches the guidance image according to the position on the competition course.

4. In a competition in which competitors race to complete the course from start to finish in the shortest time, a stage display means is provided that displays the process from start to finish in multiple stages on a terminal, A means for displaying the number of competitors, which displays information on the terminal for each stage indicating the number of competitors currently competing or the number of competitors who have completed the stage, A means for displaying images of the competition course on a terminal, A location image display means for displaying location images indicating multiple points on the aforementioned competition course on a terminal, A means for receiving release information, which is information indicating that traffic restrictions at the aforementioned location have been lifted as a result of an operation by the person in charge of the aforementioned location, A mode switching means that, upon receiving the aforementioned cancellation information, switches the display mode of the location image corresponding to the cancellation information, An occurrence output means for outputting occurrence information, which is information indicating that an event has occurred that should cause the competition to be canceled during the competition, to the organizer of the competition, A means for receiving instructions to cancel the competition in accordance with the actions of the aforementioned operator, A cancellation information display means that displays information indicating the occurrence of the aforementioned event, information indicating the cancellation of the competition, and an information image which is an image showing what should be conveyed to the competitors, and switches the information image according to the type of the aforementioned event, A device equipped with the following features.

Images