Virtual space display device and virtual space display method

Abstract

This virtual space display device comprises: a management unit which, when text for display in a first area located on the surface of a first virtual object is acquired from a terminal, manages the text and the first virtual object in association with each other; a determination unit that determines a virtual space, including the first virtual object having the text written in the first area, when the management unit is managing the text and the first virtual object in association with each other; and a display control unit that displays, on the terminal, a first image representing the virtual space determined by the determination unit.

Description

Virtual space display device and virtual space display method

[0001] The present invention relates to a virtual space display device and a virtual space display method.

[0002] In a virtual space, a character string may be displayed on the surface of a virtual object.

[0003] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a technique for displaying a character string related to a virtual object by superimposing it on the surface of a virtual object designated by a designation operation.

[0004] Patent No. 7072706

[0005] However, the technology disclosed in Patent Document 1 was unable to display a character string input by a user experiencing a virtual space while experiencing the virtual space on the surface of a virtual object placed in the virtual space.

[0006] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a virtual space display device that enables a user experiencing a virtual space to display a character string input while experiencing the virtual space on the surface of a virtual object placed in the virtual space.

[0007] A preferred aspect of the present invention provides a virtual space display device including: a management unit that, when text to be displayed in a first area located on the surface of a first virtual object is obtained from a terminal, associates and manages the text with the first virtual object; a determination unit that, when the management unit associates and manages the text with the first virtual object, determines a virtual space including the first virtual object in which the text is written in the first area; and a display control unit that causes the terminal to display a first image showing the virtual space determined by the determination unit.

[0008] Furthermore, a preferred aspect of the present invention provides a virtual space display method that, when text to be displayed in a first area located on the surface of a first virtual object is obtained from a terminal, manages the text in association with the first virtual object; when the management unit manages the text in association with the first virtual object, determines a virtual space including the first virtual object in which the text is written in the first area; and displays a first image indicating the virtual space determined by the determination unit on the terminal.

[0009] According to the present invention, a character string input by a user experiencing a virtual space while experiencing the virtual space can be displayed on the surface of a virtual object placed in the virtual space.

[0010] 1 is a diagram showing the overall configuration of a display control system 1 according to an embodiment. An explanatory diagram showing an example of a virtual space VS. A diagram showing an example of text TX displayed in a first region RM1. A diagram showing an example of an image PT displayed in a second region RM2. A block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a management server 10. A table showing an example of an object database ODB. A table showing an example of a text database TDB. A table showing an example of an image database PDB. A diagram showing an example of a virtual object VO3. A diagram showing an example of a virtual object VO4. A diagram showing an example of a virtual object VO5. A diagram showing an example of a virtual object VO3 changed in accordance with the shape of the first region RM1. A diagram showing an example of a virtual object VO4 changed in accordance with the shape of the second region RM2. A block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a terminal 30[k]. A block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a terminal 30[m]. A flowchart showing a first operation example of the management server 10. A flowchart showing a second operation example of the management server 10.

[0011] 1: Embodiment Hereinafter, a display control system 1 including a management server 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0012] 1-1: Configuration of the Embodiment 1-1-1: Overall Configuration FIG. 1 shows the overall configuration of a display control system 1 according to an embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the display control system 1 includes a management server 10, and terminal 30[1], terminal 30[2], ... terminal 30[k], ... terminal 30[m], ... terminal 30[n]. n is an integer equal to or greater than 1. m is an integer equal to or greater than 1 and equal to or less than n. k is an integer equal to or greater than 1 and equal to or less than m. In this embodiment, terminals 30[1] to 30[n] have the same configuration. However, terminals with different configurations may also be included. In the following description, terminal 30[k] may be described as a representative example of terminals 30[1] to 30[n].

[0013] In the display control system 1, the management server 10 and terminals 30[1] to 30[n] are connected to each other so as to be able to communicate with each other via a communication network NET. In FIG. 1, user U[k] uses terminal 30[k]. User U[m] uses terminal 30[m]. As an example, user U[k] is a user who experiences a virtual space VS, which will be described later. Also, as an example, user U[m] is a user who creates a virtual object VO, which will be placed in the virtual space VS, which will be described later. User U[k] is an example of a "user."

[0014] The terminal 30[k] displays an image VI showing a virtual space VS including a virtual object VO on a display device 34 (described later) provided in the terminal 30[k].

[0015] The "virtual object" is a virtual object that represents data such as a still image, a video, a 3DCG model, an HTML file, and a text file, for example.

[0016] The terminal 30[k] is preferably a mobile terminal device such as a smartphone or a tablet, for example.

[0017] The management server 10 provides various data and cloud services to the terminal 30[k] via the communication network NET. The management server 10 provides the terminal 30[k] with various data for displaying an image VI showing a virtual space VS including a virtual object VO on the terminal 30[k]. The image VI showing the virtual space VS including the virtual object VO is an example of a "first image."

[0018] The management server 10 also provides the terminal 30[k] with various data for displaying an avatar A[k] corresponding to the user U[k] in the virtual space VS. The management server 10 is an example of a "virtual space display device." The avatar A[k] is an example of an "avatar."

[0019] FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a virtual space VS. A virtual object VO1 and a virtual object VO2 serving as an avatar A[k] are arranged in the virtual space VS. A first region RM1 and a second region RM2 are set on the surface of the virtual object VO1. As will be described later, text TX is displayed in the first region RM1 in response to an operation by a user U[k]. Furthermore, an image PT is displayed in the second region RM2 in response to an operation by the user U[k]. Note that the virtual object VO1 is an example of a "first virtual object." The virtual object VO2 is an example of a "second virtual object."

[0020] 3 is a diagram showing an example of text TX displayed in the first region RM1. In the example shown in FIG. 3, the text TX, "Hello," is displayed in the first region RM1. Note that the first region RM1 itself is colorless and transparent. However, the first region RM1 may have at least one of a color and a pattern.

[0021] As will be described later, the text TX may be text input by the user U[k] from the terminal 30[k]. Alternatively, the text TX may be text displayed on the virtual object VO1 from the beginning when the user U[k] starts viewing the virtual space VS.

[0022] 4 is a diagram showing an example of an image PT displayed in the second region RM2. In the example shown in FIG. 4, an image PT including a circle and a square is displayed in the second region RM2. Note that the second region RM2 itself is colorless and transparent. However, the second region RM2 may have at least one of a color and a pattern.

[0023] As will be described later, the image PT may be an image input by the user U[k] from the terminal 30[k], or the image PT may be an image displayed on the virtual object VO1 from the beginning when the user U[k] starts viewing the virtual space VS.

[0024] 1-1-2: Configuration of the Management Server 10 Fig. 5 is a block diagram showing an example configuration of the management server 10. The management server 10 comprises a processing device 11, a storage device 12, a communication device 13, a display device 14, and an input device 15. The elements of the management server 10 are connected to each other by one or more buses for communicating information.

[0025] The processing device 11 is a processor that controls the entire management server 10. The processing device 11 is configured, for example, using one or more chips. The processing device 11 is configured, for example, using a central processing unit (CPU) that includes an interface with peripheral devices, an arithmetic unit, a register, etc. Some or all of the functions of the processing device 11 may be realized by hardware such as a DSP, ASIC, PLD, or FPGA. The processing device 11 executes various processes in parallel or sequentially.

[0026] The storage device 12 is a recording medium that can be read from and written to by the processing device 11. The storage device 12 also stores a plurality of programs including a control program PR1 executed by the processing device 11. The storage device 12 also stores an object database ODB, a text database TDB, and an image database PDB.

[0027] The object database ODB is a database related to virtual objects VO placed in the virtual space VS.

[0028] 6 is a table showing an example of the object database ODB. The object database ODB stores object data OD related to the virtual object VO. The object data OD has the following items: "Object ID," "Shape Data," "Position Data," "Text ID," "First Range Data," "Image ID," and "Second Range Data."

[0029] "Object ID" indicates the identifier of each virtual object VO.

[0030] The "shape data" indicates the three-dimensional shape of the virtual object VO indicated by the "object ID".

[0031] The "position data" indicates the position in the virtual space VS where the virtual object VO indicated by the "object ID" is placed.

[0032] The “text ID” indicates the identifier of the text TX displayed in the first region RM1 of the virtual object VO indicated by the “object ID.” Note that the “text ID” is the same identifier as the “text ID” in each piece of text data TD stored in the text database TDB, which will be described later.

[0033] The “first range data” indicates the range of the first region RM1 on the surface of the virtual object VO. This range refers to both the shape of the first region RM1 and the position of the first region RM1 on the surface of the virtual object VO.

[0034] The "image ID" indicates the identifier of the image displayed in the second region RM2 of the virtual object VO indicated by the "object ID." Note that the "image ID" is the same identifier as the "image ID" in each piece of image data PD stored in the image database PDB, which will be described later.

[0035] The "second range data" indicates the range of the second region RM2 on the surface of the virtual object VO. This range refers to both the shape of the second region RM2 and the position of the second region RM2 on the surface of the virtual object VO.

[0036] In the example of the object database ODB shown in FIG. 6 , the object data OD corresponding to the virtual object VO having an “object ID” of “J001” has “shape data” of “obj1.vrml,” “position data” of “loc1.dat,” “text ID” of “T001,” “first range data” of “ra1.rlm,” “image ID” of “P001,” and “second range data” of “rb1.rlm.” The object data OD indicates that the range of a first region RM1 located on the surface of the virtual object VO having an “object ID” of “J001” is indicated by “ra1.rlm.” The object data OD also indicates that the range of a second region RM2 is indicated by “ra2.rlm.” The object data OD also indicates that text TX corresponding to text data TD having a “text ID” of “T001” is displayed in the first region RM1 located on the surface of the virtual object VO having an “object ID” of “J001.” The object data OD also indicates that an image PT corresponding to image data PD having an "image ID" of "P001" is displayed in the second region RM2. As will be described later, the text TX indicated by text data TD having a "text ID" of "T001" may be blank. Similarly, the image PT indicated by image data PD having an "image ID" of "P001" may be blank.

[0037] In the example of the object database ODB shown in FIG. 3 , the object data OD corresponding to the virtual object VO having an "object ID" of "J003" does not have data in the fields of "text ID" and "first range data." The object data OD indicates that text TX will not be displayed on the surface of the virtual object VO having an "object ID" of "J003." The text TX is text corresponding to text data TD stored in the text database TDB. Furthermore, the object data OD corresponding to the virtual object VO having an "object ID" of "J003" does not have data in the fields of "image ID" and "second range data." The object data OD indicates that an image PT will not be displayed on the surface of the virtual object VO having an "object ID" of "J003." The image PT is an image corresponding to image data PD stored in the image database PDB.

[0038] In FIG. 5, the text database TDB is a database related to the text TX displayed on the surface of the virtual object VO1.

[0039] 7 is a table showing an example of the text database TDB. The text database TDB stores text data TD related to the text TX displayed on the surface of the virtual object VO. The text data TD has the fields "text ID" and "text file."

[0040] "Text ID" indicates the identifier of each text TX.

[0041] "Text file" indicates the file name in which the text TX indicated by "Text ID" is written. The contents of the file indicated by "Text file" may be blank. Each file indicated by "Text file" is stored in the storage device 12.

[0042] In the example of the text database TDB shown in FIG. 5, the text data TD with a "text ID" of "T001" indicates that the text TX corresponding to the text ID is written in a file called "text1.txt".

[0043] The image database PDB is a database relating to the image PT displayed on the surface of the virtual object VO.

[0044] 8 is a table showing an example of the image database PDB. The image database PDB stores image data PD relating to the image PT displayed on the surface of the virtual object VO1. The image data PD has the fields "image ID" and "image file."

[0045] "Image ID" indicates the identifier of each image PT.

[0046] "Image file" indicates the file name in which the image PT indicated by "Image ID" is written. Note that the contents of the file indicated by "Image file" may be blank. Each file indicated by "Image file" is stored in the storage device 12.

[0047] In the example of the image database PDB shown in FIG. 8, image data PD with an "image ID" of "P001" indicates that the image PT corresponding to that image ID is written in a file called "pic1.gif."

[0048] In FIG. 5 , the communication device 13 is hardware serving as a transmitting / receiving device for communicating with other devices. The communication device 13 is also referred to as, for example, a network device, a network controller, a network card, or a communication module. The communication device 13 may include a connector for wired connection and an interface circuit corresponding to the connector. The communication device 13 may also include a wireless communication interface. Examples of the connector and interface circuit for wired connection include products that comply with wired LAN, IEEE 1394, and USB. Examples of the wireless communication interface include products that comply with wireless LAN, Bluetooth (registered trademark), etc.

[0049] The display device 14 is a device that displays images and text information. The display device 14 displays various images under the control of the processing device 11. For example, various display panels such as a liquid crystal display panel and an organic EL display panel are suitably used as the display device 14.

[0050] The input device 15 is a device that receives operations from an administrator of the display control system 1. For example, the input device 15 includes a keyboard, a touchpad, a touch panel, or a pointing device such as a mouse.

[0051] The processing device 11, for example, reads out a control program PR1 from the storage device 12. By executing the read out control program PR1, the processing device 11 functions as a communication control unit 111, a management unit 112, an acquisition unit 113, an operation control unit 114, a determination unit 115, a display control unit 116, a calculation unit 117, a determination unit 118, and an output unit 119.

[0052] The communication control unit 111 causes the communication device 13 to transmit and receive various types of data to and from external devices.

[0053] The management unit 112 manages the object data OD stored in the object database ODB, the text data TD stored in the text database TDB, and the image data PD stored in the image database PDB.

[0054] As an example, when the acquisition unit 113 described below acquires text TX to be displayed in the first region RM1 from the terminal 30[k], the management unit 112 associates the text TX with the virtual object VO1 and manages them.

[0055] Specifically, the management unit 112 extracts an identifier indicated by "text ID" from object data OD corresponding to virtual object VO1 stored in the object database ODB. The management unit 112 then uses the identifier to reference the text database TDB, thereby extracting text data TD having the identifier as the "text ID." Furthermore, the management unit 112 writes the text TX to a file indicated by "text file" included in the text data TD.

[0056] As another example, when an image PT to be displayed in the second region RM2 is acquired from the terminal 30[k] by the acquisition unit 113 (described later), the management unit 112 manages the image PT in association with the virtual object VO1. The image PT is an example of a “second image.”

[0057] Specifically, the management unit 112 extracts an identifier indicated by "image ID" from the object data OD corresponding to the virtual object VO1 stored in the object database ODB. The management unit 112 then uses the extracted identifier to reference the image database PDB, thereby extracting image data PD having the extracted identifier as the "image ID." Furthermore, the management unit 112 writes the image PT to a file indicated by "image file" included in the image data PD.

[0058] The management unit 112 also manages a virtual object VO2 representing the avatar A[k].

[0059] The acquisition unit 113 acquires text TX to be displayed in the first region RM1 from the terminal 30[k]. The acquisition unit 113 also acquires an image PT to be displayed in the second region RM2 from the terminal 30[k].

[0060] The acquisition unit 113 also acquires, from the terminal 30[k], an operation indicating a movement of the avatar A[k] input to the terminal 30[k] by the user U[k]. The operation is an example of a “first operation.”

[0061] The movement control unit 114 controls the movement of the avatar A[k] in the virtual space VS based on the operation indicating the movement of the avatar A[k] acquired by the acquisition unit 113.

[0062] When the management unit 112 manages the text TX and the virtual object VO1 in association with each other, the determination unit 115 determines a virtual space VS that includes the virtual object VO1 in which the text TX is written in the first region RM1.

[0063] The display control unit 116 causes the terminal 30[k] to display an image VI indicating the virtual space VS determined by the determination unit 115.

[0064] Specifically, the display control unit 116 causes the terminal 30[k] to transmit data indicating the shape of the virtual object VO indicated by each object data OD in the object database ODB and the position of the virtual object VO in the virtual space VS to the communication device 13. As described above, the shape of the virtual object VO is indicated by the "shape data" included in the object data OD. Furthermore, the position of the virtual object VO in the virtual space VS is indicated by the "position data" included in the object data OD.

[0065] Furthermore, when the object data OD indicates that text TX corresponding to the "text ID" is displayed on the surface of the virtual object VO1, the display control unit 116 causes the terminal 30[k] to transmit data indicating the text TX described in the "text file" corresponding to the "text ID" in the text database TDB to the communication device 13. In this case, the display control unit 116 causes the terminal 30[k] to transmit to the communication device 13 "first range data" indicating the range of the first region RM1 in which the text TX is displayed in the virtual object VO, linked to the data indicating the text TX.

[0066] Furthermore, when the object data OD indicates that an image PT corresponding to the "image ID" is displayed on the surface of the virtual object VO, the display control unit 116 causes the terminal 30[k] to transmit data indicating the image PT described in the "image file" corresponding to the "image ID" in the image database PDB to the communication device 13. In this case, the display control unit 116 causes the terminal 30[k] to transmit to the communication device 13 "second range data" indicating the range of the second region RM2 in which the image PT is displayed in the virtual object VO, linked to the data indicating the image PT.

[0067] The calculation unit 117 calculates the distance between the first region RM1 and the body of the avatar A[k] in the virtual space VS. The calculation unit 117 also calculates the distance between the second region RM2 and the body of the avatar A[k] in the virtual space VS.

[0068] The determination unit 118 determines whether the distance between the first region RM1 and the body of the avatar A[k] in the virtual space VS is within a predetermined distance. Note that the predetermined distance is an example of the “first distance.”

[0069] When the determination unit 118 determines that the distance between the first region RM1 in the virtual space VS and the body of the avatar A[k] is within a predetermined distance, a virtual object VO3 indicating the range of the first region RM1 is displayed in the virtual space VS. The virtual object VO3 is an example of a “third virtual object.”

[0070] In other words, the management unit 112 manages the virtual object VO3. When the distance between the first region RM1 and the avatar A[k] becomes within a predetermined distance as a result of the operation acquired by the acquisition unit 113, the determination unit 115 determines a virtual space VS including the virtual objects VO1, VO2, and VO3. The display control unit 116 displays an image VI indicating the virtual space VS including the virtual objects VO1, VO2, and VO3 determined by the determination unit 115 on the terminal 30[k].

[0071] 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of a virtual object VO3. In the virtual space VS illustrated in FIG. 9, when the distance d1 between the first region RM1 and the avatar A[k] is within a predetermined distance, a virtual object VO3 indicating the border of the first region RM1 is displayed on the surface of the virtual object VO1 as a virtual object VO indicating the range of the first region RM1.

[0072] Similarly, the determination unit 118 determines whether the distance between the second region RM2 and the body of the avatar A[k] in the virtual space VS is within a predetermined distance.

[0073] If the determination unit 118 determines that the distance between the second region RM2 in the virtual space VS and the body of the avatar A[k] is within a predetermined distance, a virtual object VO4 indicating the range of the second region RM2 is displayed in the virtual space VS.

[0074] In other words, the management unit 112 manages the virtual object VO4. When the distance between the second region RM2 and the avatar A[k] becomes within a predetermined distance as a result of the operation acquired by the acquisition unit 113, the determination unit 115 determines a virtual space VS including the virtual objects VO1, VO2, and VO4. The display control unit 116 displays an image VI indicating the virtual space VS including the virtual objects VO1, VO2, and VO4 determined by the determination unit 115 on the terminal 30[k].

[0075] 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a virtual object VO4. In the virtual space VS illustrated in FIG. 10, when the distance d2 between the second region RM2 and the avatar A[k] is within a predetermined distance, a virtual object VO4 indicating the border of the second region RM2 is displayed on the surface of the virtual object VO1 as a virtual object VO indicating the range of the second region RM2.

[0076] In Figure 5, when avatar A[k] touches first region RM1 through the operation acquired by acquisition unit 113, output unit 119 outputs to terminal 30[k] an instruction to enable input of text TX at terminal 30[k].

[0077] Specifically, the determination unit 118 determines whether the distance d1 between the body of the avatar A[k] in the virtual space VS and the first region RM1 in the virtual object VO1 has become 0. In other words, the determination unit 118 determines whether the avatar A[k] has come into contact with the first region RM1. If the determination unit 118 determines that the avatar A[k] has come into contact with the first region RM1, the output unit 119 outputs to the terminal 30[k] an instruction to enable the terminal 30[k] to accept input of text TX.

[0078] In this case, the user U[k] inputs text TX from the terminal 30[k]. As described above, the text TX input from the terminal 30[k] is acquired by the acquisition unit 113. The management unit 112 identifies the object data OD corresponding to the virtual object VO1 by referring to the object database ODB. The management unit 112 also extracts a "text ID" included in the identified object data OD. The management unit 112 also identifies a "text file" corresponding to the "text ID" by referring to the text database TDB. Furthermore, the management unit 112 writes the text TX acquired by the acquisition unit 113 into the file indicated by the identified "text file."

[0079] In this case, as an example, a virtual object VO5 representing an input device for inputting text TX is displayed in the virtual space VS. The virtual object VO5 is an example of a "fourth virtual object."

[0080] In other words, the management unit 112 manages the virtual object VO5. When the avatar A[k] touches the first region RM1 through the operation acquired by the acquisition unit 113, the determination unit 115 determines a virtual space VS including the virtual objects VO1, VO2, and VO5. The display control unit 116 displays, on the terminal 30[k], an image VI indicating the virtual space VS including the virtual objects VO1, VO2, and VO5 determined by the determination unit 115.

[0081] Fig. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a virtual object VO5. In the virtual space VS shown in Fig. 11, a virtual object VO5 representing a keyboard is displayed as an input device for inputting text TX.

[0082] Also, in Figure 5, when avatar A[k] contacts the second region RM2 through the operation acquired by the acquisition unit 113, the output unit 119 outputs to terminal 30[k] an instruction to enable terminal 30[k] to accept input of image PT.

[0083] Specifically, the determination unit 118 determines whether the distance d2 between the body of the avatar A[k] in the virtual space VS and the second region RM2 in the virtual object VO1 is 0. In other words, the determination unit 118 determines whether the avatar A[k] has come into contact with the second region RM2. If the determination unit 118 determines that the avatar A[k] has come into contact with the second region RM2, the output unit 119 outputs to the terminal 30[k] an instruction to enable the terminal 30[k] to accept input of an image PT.

[0084] In this case, user U[k] inputs an image PT from terminal 30[k]. As described above, the image PT input from terminal 30[k] is acquired by the acquisition unit 113. The management unit 112 identifies object data OD corresponding to virtual object VO1 by referring to the object database ODB. The management unit 112 also extracts an "image ID" included in the identified object data OD. The management unit 112 also identifies an "image file" corresponding to the "image ID" by referring to the image database PDB. Furthermore, the management unit 112 writes the image PT acquired by the acquisition unit 113 into the file indicated by the identified "image file."

[0085] In the virtual space VS shown in the above example, the shape of the first region RM1 is changed in response to the movement of the avatar A[k]. Specifically, the shape of the first region RM1 is changed in response to an operation indicating the movement of the avatar A[k] input to the terminal 30[k] by the user U[k], which is acquired by the acquisition unit 113. Furthermore, the management unit 112 changes the virtual object VO3 in response to the changed shape of the first region RM1. The determination unit 115 determines the virtual space VS including the virtual object VO1, the virtual object VO2, and the changed virtual object VO3.

[0086] For example, when the avatar A[k] pulls the virtual object VO3, the shape of the first region RM1 is changed in accordance with the pulling action. Furthermore, the management unit 112 changes at least one of the shape and color of the virtual object VO3 in accordance with the changed shape of the first region RM1.

[0087] 12 is a diagram showing an example of a virtual object VO3 that has been changed in accordance with the shape of the first region RM1. In the example shown in Fig. 12, the management unit 112 changes the shape of the virtual object VO3 to a hexagon.

[0088] Similarly, in the virtual space VS shown in the example above, the shape of the second region RM2 is changed in response to the movement of the avatar A[k]. Specifically, the shape of the second region RM2 is changed in response to an operation indicating the movement of the avatar A[k] input to the terminal 30[k] by the user U[k], which is acquired by the acquisition unit 113. Furthermore, the management unit 112 changes the virtual object VO4 in response to the changed shape of the second region RM2. The determination unit 115 determines the virtual space VS including the virtual object VO1, the virtual object VO2, and the changed virtual object VO4.

[0089] For example, when the avatar A[k] pulls the virtual object VO4, the shape of the second region RM2 is changed in accordance with the pulling action. Furthermore, the management unit 112 changes at least one of the shape and color of the virtual object VO4 in accordance with the changed shape of the second region RM2.

[0090] 13 is a diagram showing an example of a virtual object VO4 that has been changed in accordance with the shape of the second region RM2. In the example shown in Fig. 13, the management unit 112 changes the shape of the virtual object VO4 to a hexagon.

[0091] Furthermore, in the virtual space VS shown in the above example, the position of the first region RM1 in the virtual object VO1 is changed in response to the movement of the avatar A[k]. Specifically, the position of the first region RM1 is changed in response to an operation indicating the movement of the avatar A[k] input to the terminal 30[k] by the user U[k], which is acquired by the acquisition unit 113. Furthermore, the management unit 112 changes the position of the virtual object VO3 in response to the changed position of the first region RM1. The determination unit 115 determines the virtual space VS including the virtual object VO1, the virtual object VO2, and the changed virtual object VO3.

[0092] Similarly, in the virtual space VS shown in the example above, the position of the second region RM2 in the virtual object VO1 is changed in response to the movement of the avatar A[k]. Specifically, the position of the second region RM2 is changed in response to an operation indicating the movement of the avatar A[k] input to the terminal 30[k] by the user U[k], which is acquired by the acquisition unit 113. Furthermore, the management unit 112 changes the position of the virtual object VO4 in response to the changed position of the second region RM2. The determination unit 115 determines the virtual space VS including the virtual object VO1, the virtual object VO2, and the changed virtual object VO4.

[0093] As an example, virtual objects VO2 to VO5 correspond to object data OD with an "object ID" of "J003" stored in the object database ODB illustrated in FIG. 6. Specifically, virtual objects VO2 to VO5 are virtual objects VO that do not display text TX or an image PT on their surfaces and correspond to object data OD with an "object ID" of "J003." However, the object data OD that virtual objects VO2 to VO5 correspond to is not limited to object data OD with an "object ID" of "J003," and may be, for example, object data OD with an "object ID" of "J001." In other words, at least one of text TX and an image PT may be displayed on the surfaces of virtual objects VO2 to VO5.

[0094] 1-1-3: Configuration of Terminal 30[k] Fig. 14 is a block diagram showing an example configuration of terminal 30[k]. Terminal 30[k] comprises a processing device 31[k], a storage device 32[k], a communication device 33, a display device 34, and an input device 35. The elements of terminal 30[k] are connected to each other by one or more buses for communicating information.

[0095] The processing device 31[k] is a processor that controls the entire terminal 30[k]. The processing device 31[k] is configured, for example, using one or more chips. The processing device 31[k] is configured, for example, using a central processing unit (CPU) including an interface with peripheral devices, an arithmetic unit, and registers. Some or all of the functions of the processing device 31 may be realized by hardware such as a DSP, ASIC, PLD, or FPGA. The processing device 31[k] executes various processes in parallel or sequentially.

[0096] The storage device 32[k] is a recording medium that can be read and written by the processing device 31[k]. The storage device 32[k] also stores a plurality of programs, including the control program PR3[k], which is executed by the processing device 31[k].

[0097] The communication device 33 is hardware serving as a transmitting / receiving device for communicating with other devices. The communication device 33 is also referred to as, for example, a network device, a network controller, a network card, or a communication module. The communication device 33 may include a connector for wired connection and an interface circuit corresponding to the connector. The communication device 33 may also include a wireless communication interface. Examples of the connector and interface circuit for wired connection include products that comply with wired LAN, IEEE 1394, and USB. Examples of the wireless communication interface include products that comply with wireless LAN, Bluetooth (registered trademark), etc.

[0098] The display device 34 is a device that displays images and text information. The display device 34 displays various images under the control of the processing device 31[k]. For example, various display panels such as a liquid crystal display panel and an organic EL display panel are suitably used as the display device 14.

[0099] The input device 35 is a device that accepts operations from the user U[k] of the terminal 30[k]. For example, the input device 35 includes a keyboard, a touchpad, a touch panel, or a pointing device such as a mouse.

[0100] The processing device 31[k] reads, for example, the control program PR3[k] from the storage device 32[k]. The processing device 31[k] executes the read control program PR3[k] to function as a communication control unit 311, a generation unit 312, a display control unit 313, and a reception unit 314.

[0101] The communication control unit 311 causes the communication device 33 to transmit and receive various data to and from external devices.

[0102] The generation unit 312 generates an image VI showing the virtual space VS based on the data received from the management server 10 .

[0103] The display control unit 313 causes the display device 34 to display the image VI.

[0104] The reception unit 314 receives an operation performed by the user U[k] using the input device 35. One example of this operation is an operation to input text TX. Another example of this operation is an operation to input an image PT. Another example of this operation is an operation to indicate a movement of the avatar A[k].

[0105] The operation accepted by the accepting unit 314 is transmitted to the management server 10 by the communication control unit 311 .

[0106] 1-1-4: Configuration of Terminal 30[m] Figure 15 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of terminal 30[m]. Note that, for the sake of convenience, the components of terminal 30[m] that are included in terminal 30[k] and those of Germany will be designated by the same reference numerals, and a description of their functions will be omitted.

[0107] The terminal 30[m] includes a processing device 31[m], a storage device 32[m], a communication device 33, a display device 34, and an input device 35. The elements of the terminal 30[m] are connected to each other by one or more buses for communicating information.

[0108] The processing device 31[m] is a processor that controls the entire terminal 30[m]. The processing device 31[m] is configured, for example, using one or more chips. The processing device 31[m] is configured, for example, using a central processing unit (CPU) including an interface with peripheral devices, an arithmetic unit, and registers. Some or all of the functions of the processing device 11 may be realized by hardware such as a DSP, ASIC, PLD, or FPGA. The processing device 31[k] executes various processes in parallel or sequentially.

[0109] The storage device 32[m] is a recording medium that can be read and written by the processing device 31[m]. The storage device 32[m] also stores a plurality of programs, including the control program PR3[k], which is executed by the processing device 31[m].

[0110] The processing device 31[m] reads, for example, a control program PR3[m] from the storage device 32[m]. By executing the read control program PR3[m], the processing device 31[m] functions as a communication control unit 311, a generation unit 312, a display control unit 313, a reception unit 314, and a production unit 315.

[0111] The production unit 315 produces a virtual object VO based on an operation performed by the user U[m] using the input device 35. More specifically, the production unit 315 generates data related to the virtual object VO based on the operation. The data includes object data OD corresponding to the virtual object VO. The data may also include at least one of text data TD and image data PD related to the virtual object VO. The data is transmitted to the management server 10 by the communication control unit 311. The object data OD transmitted to the management server 10 is stored in the object database ODB. The text data TD transmitted to the management server 10 is stored in the text database TDB. The image data PD transmitted to the management server 10 is stored in the image database PDB.

[0112] For convenience of explanation, the terminal 30[k] shown in FIG. 14 is configured without the production unit 315, but the terminal 30[k] may also be configured with the production unit 315.

[0113] 1-2: Operation of the Embodiment 1-2-1: First Operation Example FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing a first operation example of the management server 10.

[0114] In step S1, the processing device 11 functions as the determination unit 115. The processing device 11 determines a virtual space VS including a virtual object VO1.

[0115] In step S2, the processing device 11 functions as the display control unit 116. The processing device 11 causes the terminal 30[k] to display an image VI indicating the virtual space VS determined in step S1.

[0116] In step S3, the processing device 11 functions as the calculation unit 117. The processing device 11 calculates the distance d1 between the first region RM1 and the avatar A[k].

[0117] In step S4, the processing device 11 functions as the determination unit 118. The processing device 11 determines whether the distance d1 is within a predetermined distance. If the distance d1 is within the predetermined distance (YES in step S4), the processing device 11 executes the process of step S5. If the distance d1 exceeds the predetermined distance (NO in step S4), the processing device 11 executes the process of step S4.

[0118] In step S5, the processing device 11 functions as the determination unit 115. The processing device 11 determines a virtual space VS including a virtual object VO1, a virtual object VO2, and a virtual object VO3.

[0119] In step S6, the processing device 11 functions as the display control unit 116. The processing device 11 causes the terminal 30[k] to display an image VI indicating the virtual space VS determined in step S5.

[0120] In step S7, the processing device 11 functions as the determination unit 118. The processing device 11 determines whether or not the avatar A[k] has come into contact with the first region RM1. If the avatar A[k] has come into contact with the first region RM1 (YES in step S7), the processing device 11 executes the process of step S8. If the avatar A[k] has not come into contact with the first region RM1 (NO in step S7), the processing device 11 executes the process of step S7.

[0121] In step S8, the processing device 11 functions as the output unit 119. The processing device 11 outputs to the terminal 30[k] an instruction to enable the terminal 30[k] to accept input of the text TX.

[0122] In step S9, the processing device 11 functions as the acquisition unit 113. The processing device 11 acquires the text TX from the terminal 30[k].

[0123] In step S10, the processing device 11 functions as the management unit 112. The processing device 11 identifies the object data OD corresponding to the virtual object VO1 by referring to the object database ODB. The processing device 11 also extracts a "text ID" included in the identified object data OD. The processing device 11 also identifies a "text file" corresponding to the "text ID" by referring to the text database TDB. Furthermore, the processing device 11 writes the text TX acquired in step S9 into the file indicated by the identified "text file."

[0124] Thereafter, the processing device 11 executes the process of step S1 (return).

[0125] 1-2-2: Second Operation Example FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing a second operation example of the management server 10.

[0126] In step S11, the processing device 11 functions as the determination unit 115. The processing device 11 determines a virtual space VS including the virtual object VO1.

[0127] In step S12, the processing device 11 functions as the display control unit 116. The processing device 11 causes the terminal 30[k] to display an image VI indicating the virtual space VS determined in step S1.

[0128] In step S13, the processing device 11 functions as the calculation unit 117. The processing device 11 calculates the distance d2 between the second region RM2 and the avatar A[k].

[0129] In step S14, the processing device 11 functions as the determination unit 118. The processing device 11 determines whether the distance d2 is within a predetermined distance. If the distance d2 is within the predetermined distance (YES in step S14), the processing device 11 executes the process of step S15. If the distance d2 exceeds the predetermined distance (NO in step S14), the processing device 11 executes the process of step S14.

[0130] In step S15, the processing device 11 functions as the determination unit 115. The processing device 11 determines a virtual space VS including a virtual object VO1, a virtual object VO2, and a virtual object VO4.

[0131] In step S16, the processing device 11 functions as the display control unit 116. The processing device 11 causes the terminal 30[k] to display an image VI indicating the virtual space VS determined in step S15.

[0132] In step S17, the processing device 11 functions as the determination unit 118. The processing device 11 determines whether or not the avatar A[k] has come into contact with the second region RM2. If the avatar A[k] has come into contact with the second region RM2 (YES in step S17), the processing device 11 executes the process of step S18. If the avatar A[k] has not come into contact with the second region RM2 (NO in step S17), the processing device 11 executes the process of step S17.

[0133] In step S18, the processing device 11 functions as the output unit 119. The processing device 11 outputs to the terminal 30[k] an instruction to enable the terminal 30[k] to accept input of the image PT.

[0134] In step S19, the processing device 11 functions as the acquisition unit 113. The processing device 11 acquires an image PT from the terminal 30[k].

[0135] In step S20, the processing device 11 functions as the management unit 112. The processing device 11 identifies the object data OD corresponding to the virtual object VO1 by referring to the object database ODB. The processing device 11 also extracts the "image ID" included in the identified object data OD. The processing device 11 also identifies the "image file" corresponding to the "image ID" by referring to the image database PDB. Furthermore, the processing device 11 writes the image PT acquired in step S19 to the file indicated by the identified "image file."

[0136] Thereafter, the processing device 11 executes the process of step S11 (return).

[0137] 1-3: Effects of the Embodiment The management server 10 as a virtual space display device according to the present embodiment includes a management unit 112, a determination unit 115, and a display control unit 116. When text TX to be displayed in a first region RM1 located on the surface of a virtual object VO1 serving as a first virtual object is acquired from a terminal 30[k], the management unit 112 manages the text TX and the virtual object VO1 in association with each other. When the management unit 112 manages the text TX and the virtual object VO1 in association with each other, the determination unit 115 determines a virtual space VS including the virtual object VO1 in which the text TX is written in the first region RM1. The display control unit 116 displays an image VI as a first image representing the virtual space VS determined by the determination unit 115 on the terminal 30[k].

[0138] By having the above-mentioned configuration, the management server 10 is able to display a string of characters input by a user U[k] experiencing a virtual space VS from a terminal 30[k] while experiencing the virtual space VS on the surface of a virtual object VO1 placed in the virtual space VS.

[0139] Furthermore, in the management server 10 according to this embodiment, the virtual space VS includes a virtual object VO2 as a second virtual object representing an avatar A[k] corresponding to a user U[k] of a terminal 30[k]. The management unit 112 further manages the virtual object VO2 and a virtual object VO3 as a third virtual object representing the range of a first region RM1. When a distance d1 between the first region RM1 and the avatar A[k] is within a predetermined distance as a first distance, the determination unit 115 determines the virtual space VS to include the virtual objects VO1, VO2, and VO3.

[0140] By having the above configuration, the management server 10 can grasp the input area for the text TX when the user U[k] brings the avatar A[k] corresponding to the user U[k] close to the virtual object VO1.

[0141] Furthermore, in the management server 10 according to this embodiment, the virtual space VS includes a virtual object VO2 as a second virtual object representing an avatar A[k] corresponding to a user U[k] of the terminal 30[k]. The management unit 112 further manages the virtual object VO2. The management server 10 further includes an acquisition unit 113 and an output unit 119. The acquisition unit 113 acquires, from the terminal 30[k], a first operation representing a movement of the avatar A[k] input to the terminal 30[k] by the user U[k]. When the avatar A[k] touches the first region RM1 due to the first operation acquired by the acquisition unit 113, the output unit 119 outputs, to the terminal 30[k], an instruction to enable input of text TX at the terminal 30[k].

[0142] By having the above-mentioned configuration, the management server 10 enables a user U[k] to input text TX onto the surface of the virtual object VO1, triggered by the avatar A[k] corresponding to the user U[k] touching the first region RM1.

[0143] Furthermore, in the management server 10 according to this embodiment, the virtual space VS includes a virtual object VO2 as a second virtual object representing an avatar A[k] corresponding to a user U[k] of the terminal 30[k]. The management unit 112 further manages the virtual object VO2 and a virtual object VO5 as a fourth virtual object representing an input device for inputting text TX. The management server 10 further includes an acquisition unit 113. The acquisition unit 113 acquires, from the terminal 30[k], a first operation representing a movement of the avatar A[k] input to the terminal 30[k] by the user U[k]. When the avatar A[k] contacts the first region RM1 due to the first operation acquired by the acquisition unit 113, the determination unit 115 further determines a virtual space VS including the virtual object VO5.

[0144] The management server 10 has the above configuration, which enables the user U[k] to input text TX onto the surface of the virtual object VO1 using an input device displayed in the virtual space VS.

[0145] Furthermore, in the management server 10 according to this embodiment, the virtual space VS includes a virtual object VO2 as a second virtual object representing an avatar A[k] corresponding to a user U[k] of a terminal 30[k]. The management server 10 further includes an acquisition unit 113. The acquisition unit 113 acquires, from the terminal 30[k], a first operation representing the movement of the avatar A[k] input by the user U[k] to the terminal 30[k]. The management unit 112 manages the virtual object VO2. Furthermore, when the shape of the first region RM1 is changed in accordance with the first operation acquired by the acquisition unit 113, the management unit 112 changes the virtual object VO3 in accordance with the changed shape of the first region RM1. The determination unit 115 determines the virtual space VS including the virtual objects VO1, VO2, and VO3.

[0146] By having the above-mentioned configuration, the management server 10 allows a user U[k] to change the shape of the first region RM1 on the surface of the virtual object VO1 by operating the avatar A[k] corresponding to the user U[k].

[0147] Furthermore, in the management server 10 according to this embodiment, the virtual space VS includes a virtual object VO2 as a second virtual object representing an avatar A[k] corresponding to a user U[k] of a terminal 30[k]. The management server 10 further includes an acquisition unit 113. The acquisition unit 113 acquires, from the terminal 30[k], a first operation representing the movement of the avatar A[k] input by the user U[k] to the terminal 30[k]. The management unit 112 manages the virtual object VO2 and a virtual object VO3 representing the range of the first region RM1. Furthermore, when the position of the virtual object VO1 in the first region RM1 is changed in accordance with the first operation acquired by the acquisition unit 113, the management unit 112 changes the position of the virtual object VO3 in accordance with the changed position of the first region RM1. The determination unit 115 determines the virtual space VS including the virtual objects VO1, VO2, and VO3.

[0148] By having the above-mentioned configuration, the management server 10 allows a user U[k] to change the position of the first region RM1 in the virtual object VO1 by operating the avatar A[k] corresponding to the user U[k].

[0149] Furthermore, in the management server 10 according to this embodiment, when an image PT is acquired from the terminal 30[k] as a second image to be displayed in a second region RM2 located on the surface of the virtual object VO1, the management unit 112 manages the image PT in association with the virtual object VO1. When the management unit 112 manages the image PT in association with the virtual object VO1, the determination unit 115 determines a virtual space VS including the virtual object VO1 in which the image PT is arranged in the second region RM2.

[0150] By having the above-mentioned configuration, the management server 10 enables a user U[k] experiencing a virtual space VS to display an image PT input from terminal 30[k] on the surface of a virtual object VO1 placed in the virtual space VS while experiencing the virtual space VS.

[0151] Furthermore, in the virtual space display method according to the present embodiment, when text TX to be displayed in a first region RM1 located on the surface of a virtual object VO1 (a first virtual object) is acquired from terminal 30[k], the virtual space display method manages the text TX and the virtual object VO1 in association with each other. Furthermore, when the text TX and the virtual object VO1 are managed in association with each other, the virtual space display method determines a virtual space VS including the virtual object VO1 in which the text TX is written in the first region RM1. Furthermore, the virtual space display method displays an image VI as a first image representing the determined virtual space VS on terminal 30[k].

[0152] By having the above-described configuration, the virtual space display method enables a user U[k] experiencing a virtual space VS to display a character string input from terminal 30[k] on the surface of a virtual object VO1 placed in the virtual space VS while experiencing the virtual space VS.

[0153] 2: Modifications The present disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiments. Specific modifications are exemplified below.

[0154] 2-1: Modification 1 In the above embodiment, when the distance d1 between the first region RM1 and the avatar A[k] is within a predetermined distance due to the operation acquired by the acquisition unit 113, the determination unit 115 determines a virtual space VS including virtual objects VO1, VO2, and VO3. However, the determination unit 115 may unconditionally determine a virtual space VS including virtual objects VO1, VO2, and VO3. As an example, the determination unit 115 may determine a virtual space VS including virtual objects VO1, VO2, and VO3 regardless of the distance d1 between the first region RM1 and the avatar A[k]. In this case, the virtual object VO3 indicating the range of the first region RM1 is always displayed in the virtual space VS.

[0155] Similarly, in the above embodiment, when the distance d2 between the second region RM2 and the avatar A[k] is within a predetermined distance due to the operation acquired by the acquisition unit 113, the determination unit 115 determines the virtual space VS including the virtual objects VO1, VO2, and VO4. However, the determination unit 115 may unconditionally determine the virtual space VS including the virtual objects VO1, VO2, and VO4. As an example, the determination unit 115 may determine the virtual space VS including the virtual objects VO1, VO2, and VO4 regardless of the distance d2 between the second region RM2 and the avatar A[k]. In this case, the virtual object VO4 indicating the range of the second region RM2 is always displayed in the virtual space VS.

[0156] 2-2: Modification 2 In the above embodiment, a virtual object VO3 indicating the range of the first region RM1 is displayed in the virtual space VS. However, the virtual object VO3 does not have to be displayed in the virtual space VS. In this case, the virtual space VS determined by the determination unit 115 does not include the virtual object VO3.

[0157] Similarly, in the above embodiment, a virtual object VO4 indicating the range of the second region RM2 is displayed in the virtual space VS. However, the virtual object VO4 does not have to be displayed in the virtual space VS. In this case, the virtual space VS determined by the determination unit 115 does not include the virtual object VO4.

[0158] 2-3: Modification 3 In the above embodiment, the terminal 30[k] generates the image VI showing the virtual space VS based on the data received from the management server 10. However, the management server 10 may generate the image VI and transmit the generated image VI to the terminal 30[k].

[0159] 2-4: Modification 4 In the above embodiment, when the avatar A[k] touches the first region RM1, a virtual object VO5 representing an input device for inputting text TX is displayed in the virtual space VS.

[0160] When the avatar A[k] touches the second region RM2, a virtual object VO5 representing an input device for inputting the image PT may be displayed in the virtual space VS. In this case, the virtual object VO5 may be a combination of a keyboard and a mouse.

[0161] 2-5: Variation 5 In the above embodiment, when the distance d1 between the first region RM1 and the avatar A[k] is within a predetermined distance, the virtual object VO3 is displayed in the virtual space VS. Similarly, when the distance d2 between the second region RM2 and the avatar A[k] is within a predetermined distance, the virtual object VO4 is displayed in the virtual space VS.

[0162] However, instead of the distance between each of the first region RM1 and the second region RM2 and the avatar A[k], if the distance between the virtual object VO1 and the avatar A[k] is within a predetermined distance, both the virtual object VO3 and the virtual object VO4 may be displayed in the virtual space VS.

[0163] 3: Others (1) In the above-described embodiment, ROM and RAM are exemplified as storage device 12, storage device 32[k], and storage device 32[m], but other suitable storage media may also be used, such as flexible disks, magneto-optical disks (e.g., compact disks, digital versatile disks, Blu-ray (registered trademark) disks), smart cards, flash memory devices (e.g., cards, sticks, key drives), CD-ROMs (Compact Disc-ROMs), registers, removable disks, hard disks, floppy (registered trademark) disks, magnetic strips, databases, servers, and other suitable storage media.

[0164] (2) In the above-described embodiments, the described information, signals, etc. may be represented using any of a variety of different technologies. For example, data, instructions, commands, information, signals, bits, symbols, chips, etc. that may be referred to throughout the above description may be represented by voltages, currents, electromagnetic waves, magnetic fields or magnetic particles, optical fields or photons, or any combination thereof.

[0165] (3) In the above-described embodiment, input and output information may be stored in a specific location (for example, a memory) or may be managed using a management table. Input and output information may be overwritten, updated, or added to. Output information may be deleted. Input information may be transmitted to another device.

[0166] (4) In the above-described embodiment, the determination may be made based on a value (0 or 1) represented using one bit, a Boolean value (true or false), or a comparison of numerical values ​​(e.g., comparison with a predetermined value).

[0167] (5) The order of the exemplary procedures, sequences, flowcharts, etc. illustrated in the above-described embodiments may be rearranged unless inconsistent. For example, the methods described in this disclosure present elements of various steps using an example order, and are not limited to the particular order presented.

[0168] (6) Each function illustrated in Figures 1 to 17 is realized by any combination of hardware and / or software. Furthermore, the method of realizing each functional block is not particularly limited. That is, each functional block may be realized using a single device that is physically or logically coupled, or may be realized using two or more physically or logically separated devices that are directly or indirectly connected (e.g., wired, wireless, etc.) and these multiple devices. A functional block may be realized by combining software with the single device or multiple devices.

[0169] (7) The programs exemplified in the above-described embodiments should be broadly construed to mean instructions, instruction sets, code, code segments, program code, programs, subprograms, software modules, applications, software applications, software packages, routines, subroutines, objects, executable files, threads of execution, procedures, functions, etc., regardless of whether they are called software, firmware, middleware, microcode, hardware description language, or by other names.

[0170] Software, instructions, information, etc. may also be transmitted or received over a transmission medium. For example, if software is transmitted from a website, server, or other remote source using wired technologies (such as coaxial cable, fiber optic cable, twisted pair, Digital Subscriber Line (DSL)), and / or wireless technologies (such as infrared, microwave), then these wired and / or wireless technologies are included within the definition of transmission media.

[0171] (8) In each of the foregoing embodiments, the terms "system" and "network" are used interchangeably.

[0172] (9) The information, parameters, etc. described in this disclosure may be expressed using absolute values, relative values ​​from a predetermined value, or corresponding other information.

[0173] (10) In the above-described embodiments, terminals 30[1] to 30[n] may be mobile stations (MS). Those skilled in the art may refer to a mobile station as a subscriber station, mobile unit, subscriber unit, wireless unit, remote unit, mobile device, wireless device, wireless communication device, remote device, mobile subscriber station, access terminal, mobile terminal, wireless terminal, remote terminal, handset, user agent, mobile client, client, or some other appropriate term. In this disclosure, terms such as "mobile station," "user terminal," "user equipment (UE)," and "terminal" may be used interchangeably.

[0174] (11) In the above-described embodiments, the terms "connected," "coupled," or any variations thereof refer to any direct or indirect connection or coupling between two or more elements, and may include the presence of one or more intermediate elements between two elements that are "connected" or "coupled" to each other. The coupling or connection between elements may be a physical coupling or connection, a logical coupling or connection, or a combination thereof. For example, "connected" may be read as "access." As used in this disclosure, two elements may be considered to be "connected" or "coupled" to each other using at least one of one or more wires, cables, and printed electrical connections, as well as electromagnetic energy having wavelengths in the radio frequency range, microwave range, and optical (both visible and invisible) range, as some non-limiting and non-exhaustive examples.

[0175] (12) In the above embodiments, the phrase "based on" does not mean "based only on," unless otherwise specified. In other words, the phrase "based on" means both "based only on" and "based at least on."

[0176] (13) As used in this disclosure, the terms "determining" and "determining" may encompass a wide variety of actions. "Determining" and "determining" may include, for example, judging, calculating, computing, processing, deriving, investigating, looking up, searching, inquiring (e.g., searching a table, database, or other data structure), and ascertaining something that is considered to be a "determining." Also, "determining" and "determining" may include receiving (e.g., receiving information), transmitting (e.g., sending information), input, output, accessing (e.g., accessing data in memory), and so on. Furthermore, "judgment" and "decision" can include regarding resolving, selecting, choosing, establishing, comparing, etc. as having been "judged" or "decided." In other words, "judgment" and "decision" can include regarding some action as having been "judged" or "decided." Furthermore, "judgment (decision)" can be interpreted as "assuming," "expecting," "considering," etc.

[0177] (14) In the above embodiments, when the terms "include," "including," and variations thereof are used, these terms are intended to be inclusive, similar to the term "comprising." Furthermore, the term "or," as used in this disclosure, is not intended to be an exclusive or.

[0178] (15) In this disclosure, where articles are added by translation, such as a, an, and the in English, this disclosure may include the nouns following these articles being plural.

[0179] (16) In this disclosure, the term "A and B are different" may mean "A and B are different from each other." The term may also mean "A and B are each different from C." Terms such as "separate" and "combined" may also be interpreted in the same way as "different."

[0180] (17) Each aspect / embodiment described in this disclosure may be used alone, in combination, or switched depending on the implementation. Notification of predetermined information (e.g., notification that "X is true") is not limited to explicit notification, but may be implicit (e.g., not notifying the predetermined information).

[0181] Although the present disclosure has been described in detail above, it is clear to those skilled in the art that the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described herein. The present disclosure can be implemented in modified and altered forms without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure as defined by the claims. Therefore, the description of the present disclosure is intended to be illustrative and does not have any limiting meaning on the present disclosure.

[0182] 1: Display control system, 10: Management server, 11: Processing device, 12: Storage device, 13: Communication device, 14: Display device, 15: Input device, 30: Terminal, 31: Processing device, 32: Storage device, 33: Communication device, 34: Display device, 35: Input device, 111: Communication control unit, 112: Management unit, 113: Acquisition unit, 114: Operation control unit, 115: Determination unit, 116: Display control unit, 117: Calculation unit, 118: Determination unit, 119: Output unit, 311: Communication control unit, 312: Generation unit, 313: Display control unit, 314: Reception unit, 315: Production unit, A[k]: Avatar, NET: Communication Network, OD: object data, ODB: object database, PD: image data, PDB: image database, PR1: control program, PR3: control program, PT: image, RM1: first region, RM2: second region, TD: text data, TDB: text database, TX: text, U: user, VI: image, VO: virtual object, VO1: virtual object, VO2: virtual object, VO3: virtual object, VO4: virtual object, VO5: virtual object, VS: virtual space, d1: distance, d2: distance

Claims

1. A virtual space display device comprising: a management unit that, when text to be displayed in a first area located on the surface of a first virtual object is obtained from a terminal, associates and manages the text with the first virtual object; a determination unit that, when the management unit associates and manages the text with the first virtual object, determines a virtual space including the first virtual object in which the text is written in the first area; and a display control unit that displays on the terminal a first image showing the virtual space determined by the determination unit.

2. The virtual space display device according to claim 1, wherein the virtual space includes a second virtual object representing an avatar corresponding to a user of the terminal, the management unit further manages the second virtual object and a third virtual object representing the range of the first area, and the determination unit determines a virtual space including the first virtual object, the second virtual object, and the third virtual object.

3. The virtual space display device described in claim 1, wherein the virtual space includes a second virtual object representing an avatar corresponding to a user of the terminal, the management unit further manages the second virtual object and a third virtual object representing the range of the first area, and the determination unit determines a virtual space including the first virtual object, the second virtual object, and the third virtual object when the distance between the first area and the avatar is within a first distance.

4. The virtual space display device of claim 1, wherein the virtual space includes a second virtual object representing an avatar corresponding to a user of the terminal, and the management unit further manages the second virtual object; and further comprises: an acquisition unit that acquires from the terminal a first operation representing a movement of the avatar input by the user to the terminal; and an output unit that, when the avatar comes into contact with the first area due to the first operation acquired by the acquisition unit, outputs to the terminal an instruction to enable the terminal to accept input of the text.

5. A virtual space display device as described in claim 1, wherein the virtual space includes a second virtual object representing an avatar corresponding to a user of the terminal, the management unit further manages the second virtual object and a fourth virtual object representing an input device for inputting the text, and the device further comprises an acquisition unit that acquires from the terminal a first operation representing a movement of the avatar input to the terminal by the user, and the determination unit further determines a virtual space including the fourth virtual object when the avatar comes into contact with the first area due to the first operation acquired by the acquisition unit.

6. A virtual space display device as described in claim 1, further comprising: an acquisition unit that acquires from the terminal a first operation indicating an action of the avatar input by the user to the terminal, wherein the virtual space includes a second virtual object; the second virtual object represents an avatar corresponding to a user of the terminal; the acquisition unit that acquires from the terminal a first operation representing an action of the avatar input by the user to the terminal; the management unit that manages the second virtual object; and when the shape of the first area is changed in accordance with the first operation acquired by the acquisition unit, the management unit that changes the third virtual object in accordance with the changed shape of the first area; and the determination unit that determines a virtual space including the first virtual object, the second virtual object, and the third virtual object.

7. A virtual space display device as described in claim 1, further comprising: an acquisition unit that acquires from the terminal a first operation that indicates a movement of the avatar input by the user to the terminal, wherein the virtual space includes a second virtual object that indicates a second virtual object representing an avatar; wherein the acquisition unit manages the second virtual object and a third virtual object that indicates the range of the first area; and when the position of the first area on the first virtual object is changed in accordance with the first operation acquired by the acquisition unit, the determination unit determines a virtual space that includes the first virtual object, the second virtual object, and the third virtual object.

8. The virtual space display device according to claim 1, wherein the management unit further manages, when a second image to be displayed in a second area located on the surface of the first virtual object is acquired from the terminal, the second image and the first virtual object in association with each other, and the determination unit, when the management unit manages the second image and the first virtual object in association with each other, determines a virtual space including the first virtual object in which the second image is placed in the second area.

9. A virtual space display method comprising: when text to be displayed in a first area located on the surface of a first virtual object is obtained from a terminal, managing the text in association with the first virtual object; when the text and the first virtual object are managed in association with each other, determining a virtual space including the first virtual object in which the text is written in the first area; and displaying a first image showing the determined virtual space on the terminal.

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