Reservation system, and linked processing method for reservation system

Abstract

The present invention performs reservation processing having excellent operability in terms of making links between exhibition-based business and showroom-based business in virtual spaces and real spaces.　In this reservation system, a server device (1) comprises: a first reservation screen presenting unit that presents, to first data terminals (3-1 to 3-N), or the like, a first reservation screen for reserving a visit to a virtual showroom or a virtual exhibition, or a second reservation screen for reserving a visit to a real showroom or a real exhibition; and a first reservation registering unit that, in response to the input of visitor information at a date and time selected on the first reservation screen or the second reservation screen by visitors who are operating the first data terminals (3-1 to 3-N), or the like, registers first visit reservations to the virtual showroom or the virtual exhibition and second visit reservations to the real showroom or the real exhibition in a reservation management table that links the first visit reservations and the second visit reservations.

Description

Reservation System and Interlocking Processing Method for Reservation System

[0001] The present invention relates to a reservation system and an interlocking processing method for a reservation system that support reservation processing by visitors attending a business model that links a showroom business and an exhibition business.

[0002] In Japan, various exhibitions held in real space are often held in major cities, such as Tokyo Big Sight (registered trademark) and other locations.

[0003] For this reason, when a person living in a regional area is interested in the exhibition, it is necessary for them to travel to Tokyo by some means of transportation, then transfer between trains and buses to reach the destination, complete gate procedures, and finally enter the main exhibition hall.

[0004] As a system that reduces the burden on such distant visitors and allows them to easily browse exhibition venues while staying in their local area, opportunities to use virtual exhibition systems and the like have been increasing, and various virtual exhibition systems have been developed in response to demands for convenience, profitability, and business negotiation performance (such as contract conclusion probability) from organizers, exhibitors, and on-site visitors.

[0005] The following Patent Document 1 discloses that: "In order to improve the presentation effect, convenience, etc. of a virtual space system, the virtual space system 1 includes a server 21 provided by an operating organization that manages the exhibition, a plurality of exhibitor-side information terminals 31-1, 31-2... 31-m that each set up a plurality of booths at the exhibition using the virtual space, and visitor-side information terminals 4-1, 4-2... 4-n used by visitors attending the exhibition. When a visitor attendance operation is performed on the visitor-side information terminals 4-1, 4-2... 4-n, the server 21 performs control to display a plurality of selection areas respectively corresponding to the plurality of booths on the visitor-side information terminals 4-1, 4-2... 4-n. When an operation of selecting one selection area from the plurality of selection areas is performed by a visitor on the visitor-side information terminals 4-1, 4-2... 4-n, the server 21 performs control to shift the display to the booth corresponding to the selected selection area on the visitor-side information terminals 4-1, 4-2... 4-n."

[0006] Furthermore, Patent Document 2 discloses that, "In order to reduce the costs and effort involved in holding an exhibition and to make it easier to hold an exhibition, the organizer's terminal sends data of the virtual exhibition venue to be rented, data of the exhibits to be exhibited, and order data, which is the rental conditions such as the rental period, to a virtual exhibition venue reception terminal via the network. The virtual exhibition venue reception terminal receives this data and generates contract data such as the rental fee, and once confirmed, sends exhibition specification data, which includes three-dimensional image data (exhibition venue data and exhibit data), to a virtual space provision terminal. When the date and time of the exhibition arrive, the exhibition specification data on the virtual space provision terminal becomes accessible. Viewers access the virtual space provision terminal from their viewing terminals via the network and view the exhibition in the three-dimensional virtual space. When the rental period expires, the exhibition specification data automatically becomes inaccessible."

[0007] Furthermore, Patent Document 3 discloses "a user-participatory internet site guidance system 100 that aims to provide an internet site guidance system that can promote user browsing, comprising a user terminal 1 equipped with a web browser 1a, an event participation site server 20, and a net event host site computer 10, wherein the net event host computer 10 comprises a web server 11, an application server 12, a database server 13, and an administrator terminal 16, and when a user accesses the net event gate page of the net host computer 10, a time-series changing guidance screen is sent to the user terminal, and the information displayed on the time-series changing guidance screen induces the user to search for an event participation site where time-series changing display information is displayed, thereby promoting browsing of the event participation site."

[0008] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2022-089597, Japanese Patent Publication No. 2002-342673, Japanese Patent Publication No. 2003-108465

[0009] In today's virtual space businesses, there has been no established effective reservation system for visitors to move from virtual showrooms to real showrooms, or to participate in real exhibition booths from virtual booths. Simply integrating the reservation systems for both would not be sufficient. Maintaining consistent usability across the entire system and enabling showroom and exhibition businesses to coordinate reservation processing between virtual and real spaces requires a flexible reservation system that takes into account the participants' preferences.

[0010] This invention was made to solve the above problems, and by linking a reservation to visit a virtual showroom or virtual exhibition with a second reservation to visit a real showroom or real exhibition, visitors can efficiently perform reservation operations for the virtual showroom or virtual exhibition and the real showroom or real exhibition in a coordinated manner.

[0011] The exhibition support system of the present invention, which achieves the above objective, has the following configuration.

[0012] The present invention relates to a reservation system that enables communication between a server device that provides a service of presenting a virtual space constructed on the cloud via a predetermined communication medium, a first data terminal operated by a visitor to a virtual showroom or virtual exhibition, and a second data terminal operated by an exhibitor exhibiting at the virtual showroom or virtual exhibition, wherein the server device comprises: a first reservation screen presentation means that presents to the first data terminal a first reservation screen for visiting the virtual showroom or virtual exhibition or a second reservation screen for visiting a real showroom or real exhibition; and a first reservation registration means that, in response to a visitor operating the first data terminal inputting visitor information on the first reservation screen or the second reservation screen, registers the first reservation for visiting the virtual showroom or virtual exhibition and the second reservation for visiting the real showroom or real exhibition in a reservation management table.

[0013] According to the present invention, by linking a reservation to visit a virtual showroom or virtual exhibition with a second reservation to visit a real showroom or real exhibition, visitors can efficiently perform reservation operations for the virtual showroom or virtual exhibition or the real showroom or real exhibition in a coordinated manner.

[0014] The drawings illustrate specific embodiments of the present invention, including not only essential components of the invention but also selective and preferred embodiments. A block diagram illustrating the configuration of the exhibition support system shown in this embodiment. A block diagram illustrating the configuration of the server device shown in Figure 1. (a) is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of the first to fourth data terminals shown in Figure 1, and (b) is a diagram illustrating the configuration of the program deployed in the RAM shown in (a). A drawing showing an example of operation of the virtual space displayed on the displays of the first and second data terminals shown in Figure 1. A drawing showing an example of operation of the virtual space displayed on the displays of the first and second data terminals shown in Figure 1. A drawing showing an example of operation of the virtual space displayed on the displays of the first and second data terminals shown in Figure 1. A conceptual diagram visualizing an example of an attendant narrating about the exhibit content in the exhibition booth shown in Figure 6. A conceptual diagram visualizing an example of an attendant narrating about the exhibit content in the exhibition booth shown in Figure 6. A flowchart showing the first data processing procedure in the exhibition support system shown in this embodiment. A flowchart showing the first data processing procedure in the exhibition support system shown in this embodiment. A flowchart showing the first data processing procedure in the exhibition support system shown in this embodiment. A block diagram illustrating the configuration of the exhibition support system shown in this embodiment. A diagram illustrating the usage of the exhibition support system shown in this embodiment. A diagram showing the virtual exhibition screen presented by the server device shown in Figure 1. A diagram illustrating the configuration of the reservation function processing of the exhibition support system shown in this embodiment. A diagram illustrating the configuration of the reservation function processing of the exhibition support system shown in this embodiment. A diagram illustrating the configuration of the reservation function processing of the exhibition support system shown in this embodiment. A block diagram illustrating the configuration of the exhibition support system shown in this embodiment. A block diagram illustrating the configuration of the exhibition support system shown in this embodiment. A diagram showing an example of a questionnaire screen displayed by the questionnaire screen display unit shown in Figure 19. A diagram showing an example of a questionnaire screen displayed by the questionnaire screen display unit shown in Figure 19. A diagram showing an example of a questionnaire screen displayed by the questionnaire screen display unit shown in Figure 19. A block diagram illustrating the configuration of the exhibition support system shown in this embodiment.A flowchart showing the second data processing procedure in the server device shown in this embodiment. A flowchart showing the second data processing procedure in the server device shown in this embodiment. A flowchart showing the third data processing procedure in the server device shown in this embodiment. A flowchart showing the third data processing procedure in the server device shown in this embodiment. A flowchart showing the fourth data processing procedure in the server device shown in this embodiment. A flowchart showing the fifth data processing procedure in the server device shown in this embodiment. A flowchart showing the fifth data processing procedure in the server device shown in this embodiment.

[0015] Next, the best mode for carrying out the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0016] <System Configuration Description> [First Embodiment] Figure 1 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of the exhibition support system shown in this embodiment. This example is an exhibition support system that enables communication between a server device 1 that provides a service of providing a virtual space built on the cloud via a predetermined communication medium, first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N and second data terminals 4-1 to 4-N operated by visitors to the virtual space, third data terminals 5-1 to 5-N operated by exhibitors who exhibit in the virtual space, and fourth data terminals 2-1 to 2-N operated by the organizer who opens the virtual space and deploys video services.

[0017] Furthermore, the server device 1 is configured to provide virtual space services and real space services to the first to fourth data terminals 3-1 to 3-N, 4-1 to 4-N, and 5-1 to 5-N, and 2-1 to 2-N, as described later, via platform 1A. This configuration allows for the mutual and dynamic switching and control of virtual showrooms, virtual exhibitions, real showrooms, and real exhibitions on a single system on the cloud (a specific URL), thereby enabling the provision of services that can be freely viewed using both virtual and real spaces.

[0018] Furthermore, this system uses publicly accessible virtual showrooms and virtual exhibitions as examples of virtual spaces, as well as publicly accessible real showrooms and real exhibitions.

[0019] [Server Device 1] Figure 2 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of server device 1 shown in Figure 1, and components identical to those in Figure 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals.

[0020] In Figure 2, 11 is the communication unit, which connects the server device 1 with the first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N, the second data terminals 4-1 to 4-N, the third data terminals 5-1 to 5-N, and the fourth data terminals 2-1 to 2-N, which are connected to the network 21 as a communication medium, and controls communication.

[0021] 13 is the CPU, which starts the operating system (OS) stored in the external memory 18 connected to the internal bus 12 and launches various applications. The CPU 13 also executes the processing of various programs loaded on the RAM 16.

[0022] 15 is the keyboard, used for numerical input, text input, and icon selection for running applications.

[0023] 16 is a RAM with expandable capacity that stores the basic program for disclosing platform 1A installed in external memory 18. 17 is a display that shows the program's startup status via various UI screens (not shown).

[0024] The basic program in this embodiment includes a generation unit 16-1 that generates an attendant who can move freely within the virtual space in response to panel instructions displayed on the virtual space accessible on platform 1A from the first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N and the second data terminals 4-1 to 4-N when visitors receive these instructions, and an attendant control unit 16-2 that controls the attendant's actions and mannerisms within the virtual space and the tone of the narration performed by the attendant (pitch of vocal frequency, speaking speed, speaking rhythm, intonation, etc.) based on panel operation instructions displayed in the virtual space. The attendant control unit 16-2 is configured to initiate an action that causes the attendant to walk to a spatial position set in the virtual space based on the panel operation instructions. Furthermore, the display control unit 16-3 is configured to control the switching of spatial display modes so that different spaces are displayed as real space or other virtual spaces (assuming multiple virtual spaces are managed).

[0025] Here, the CPU 13 is configured to activate the generation unit 16-1 and the attendant control unit 16-2, which are deployed in the RAM 16, at appropriately set timings, and to guide visitors from the first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N and the second data terminals 4-1 to 4-N connected to the platform 1A to the virtual showroom and virtual exhibition, and to have attendants narrate about the items (including tangible objects and programs as software) displayed in the virtual showroom and virtual exhibition, thereby controlling the promotion of new products and the guidance of business negotiations.

[0026] In this case, the attendant control unit 16-2 is configured to comprehensively control the difficulty level, explanation speed, and language of the narration content based on the registration information of the visitors.

[0027] Similarly, the attendant control unit 16-2 is configured to comprehensively control the attendant's actions, including facial expressions, appearance, and hand gestures, based on responses from the first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N and the second data terminals 4-1 to 4-N.

[0028] Furthermore, the attendant control unit 16-2 is configured to control the attendant's narration service in response to multiple visitors.

[0029] Similarly, the attendant control unit 16-2, upon receiving notification that the attendant has started moving from a predetermined explanation start position and moved to a predetermined waiting position, is configured to cause the attendant to give an explanation guiding the user to move to a space different from the virtual space in which they were staying at the first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N and the second data terminals 4-1 to 4-N.

[0030] Furthermore, the attendant control unit 16-2 is configured to freely switch and control the appearance, demeanor, and attire of the attendants based on the responses to the items queried when the first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N and the second data terminals 4-1 to 4-N register as visitors.

[0031] [Configuration of the First to Fourth Data Terminals] Figure 3 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of the first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N, the second data terminals 4-1 to 4-N, the third data terminals 5-1 to 5-N, and the fourth data terminals 2-1 to 2-N shown in Figure 1. Note that the second data terminals 4-1 to 4-N, the third data terminals 5-1 to 5-N, and the fourth data terminals 2-1 to 2-N are assumed to be devices such as tablet devices, PC devices, and smartphones.

[0032] In Figure 3(a), 301 is the CPU, which loads the OS and control programs stored in ROM 302 into RAM 303 and executes them to run various applications. Inputting various information and clicking icons displayed on the user interface screen (UI screen) are performed directly on the display 311 by operating the keyboard 310 or a pointing device (not shown). 304 is the communication unit, which controls communication for connecting to the server device 1 connected to the network 21.

[0033] In the RAM 303 shown in Figure 3(b), 303-1 is the login unit, which processes connection requests to platform 1A via the network 21. 303-2 is the upload / download unit, which executes the process of obtaining applications provided by server device 1.

[0034] The CPU 301 manages user account information (user ID, password) registered on the platform 1A, which the server device 1 publishes on the web, using an external storage device such as an SSD (not shown).

[0035] 303-3 is the UI control unit, which executes control to display the UI screen presented from the platform 1A provided by the server device 1 shown in Figure 1 on the display 311.

[0036] [Overview of the Virtual Space] Figures 4 to 6 are diagrams illustrating examples of operations in the virtual space displayed on the displays 311 of the first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N and the second data terminals 4-1 to 4-N shown in Figure 1.

[0037] The virtual space panel display shown in Figure 4 is the first virtual space panel display that visitors operating the first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N see after logging into the virtual space identified by a specific URL and completing the visitor registration process, by selecting either the free visitor registration or the reserved visitor registration method described later. In other words, if the reservation process is completed successfully, reserved visitors can confirm that the exhibition is being held, including its overview, venue, dates, and exhibited products (No. 1 to No. 6), by viewing the information displayed on the exhibition panel shown in Figure 4.

[0038] Furthermore, the appearance position of the attendant will be controlled according to the panel size and panel drawing position.

[0039] As mentioned above, the appearance of the attendants is designed to be freely adjustable based on questionnaire responses and requests from the organizers and exhibitors, including their appearance, hairstyle, clothing, facial expression (gentle or not), and actions.

[0040] Next, visitors can select one of the exhibition booths by using the pointing devices on the first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N and the second data terminals 4-1 to 4-N to indicate the numerical buttons (buttons displayed in the virtual space) BT1 to BT6 corresponding to the exhibited products (No. 1 to No. 6) displayed on the panel.

[0041] In response to this, the CPU 13 of the server device 1 shown in FIG. 1 activates the attendant control unit 16-2, thereby controlling the operation of the attendant to automatically start moving to the position where the instructed exhibited product is drawn in accordance with the layout information arranged in the virtual space. At this time, the moving speed of the attendant is configured to be freely adjustable according to settings from the fourth data terminals 2-1 to 2-N operated by the organizer.

[0042] Hereinafter, description will be given on the assumption that a visitor using the first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N and the second data terminals 4-1 to 4-N has instructed to press the numeric button BT2 corresponding to "2", among the numeric buttons that function as exhibition hall selection buttons shown in FIG. 5, for example.

[0043] Furthermore, the attendant uses a panel showing an overview of the exhibition as a background and starts narration for explaining the panel. At this time, the fact that narration is being performed is displayed together with an audio output icon. In the present embodiment, a marker is displayed so as to connect the upper end and the left end of the panel.

[0044] It should be noted that the server device 1 is configured to be freely adjustable by finely setting the speed and tone of narration based on parameters (male, female, anime voice, multi-language support) in the attendant personality setting table set by the visitor.

[0045] FIGS. 7 and 8 are conceptual diagrams visualizing an example in which an attendant narrates the content of an installation example proposed by an exhibitor (a booth designer in this example) while disclosing the installation example using the exhibition booth shown in FIG. 6. FIG. 7 corresponds to a list of woodworking booths, and FIG. 8 corresponds to a list of system booths.

[0046] In this example, the exhibition panel screen shows a case where grouped screens (still screens of real exhibition booths) are displayed as a digest in response to the exhibitor's request.

[0047] FIGS. 9 to 11 are flowcharts illustrating a first data processing procedure in the exhibition support system according to the present embodiment, and this procedure corresponds to a display control procedure performed by the display control unit 16-3 of the server device 1 illustrated in FIG. 1. Note that (1) to (25) denote respective steps, and each step is implemented by the CPU 13 when the display control unit 16-3 executes a program.

[0048] First, when the CPU 13 determines that a visitor who has operated the first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N and the second data terminals 4-1 to 4-N to connect to the platform 1A is a reservation person (1), the CPU 13 reads reservation information reserved by the reservation person from the external memory 18 (2).

[0049] Next, the CPU 13 activates the generation unit 16-1 to present a virtual space based on the read reservation information on the browsers of the first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N and the second data terminals 4-1 to 4-N (3). Next, the CPU 13 activates the attendant control unit 16-2 to cause an attendant to appear at spatial coordinates set in a held virtual exhibition (4).

[0050] At this time, the CPU 13 determines whether the spatial coordinates (appearance position) at which the attendant has appeared is the home position (5). If the CPU 13 determines that the position is not the home position, the CPU 13 activates the display control unit 16-3 to adjust the drawing position (spatial coordinate value) of the attendant (7), and proceeds to step (8).

[0051] On the other hand, in step (5), if the CPU 13 determines that the spatial coordinates (appearance position) at which the attendant has appeared is the home position, the CPU 13 activates the display control unit 16-3 to display an exhibition booth selection panel on the virtual space (6).

[0052] Next, the CPU 13 sets the booth selection number (in this embodiment, 1 to 6 is assumed) attached to the displayed exhibition booth selection panel to N (8). At this point, the CPU 13 determines whether the visitor operating the first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N and the second data terminals 4-1 to 4-N has selected "1" as the booth selection number N by operating the pointing device (9). If the CPU 13 determines that "1" has been selected as the booth selection number N, it sets the display control unit 16-3 to mode 1, which indicates that the attendant is moving in the virtual space (10), and proceeds to step (21).

[0053] Meanwhile, in step (9), the CPU 13 determines whether the visitor operating the first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N and the second data terminals 4-1 to 4-N has selected "2" as the booth selection number N by operating the pointing device (11). If the CPU 13 determines that "2" has been selected as the booth selection number N, it sets the display control unit 16-3 to mode 2, which indicates the attendant moving around in the virtual space (16), and proceeds to step (21).

[0054] On the other hand, in step (11), if the CPU 13 determines that a visitor operating the first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N and the second data terminals 4-1 to 4-N has not operated the pointing device to select "2" as booth selection number N, it determines whether the visitor operating the first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N and the second data terminals 4-1 to 4-N has operated the pointing device to select "3" as booth selection number N (12). If the CPU 13 determines that "3" has been selected as booth selection number N, it sets the display control unit 16-3 to mode 3, which indicates that the attendant is moving around in the virtual space (17), and proceeds to step (21).

[0055] On the other hand, in step (12), if the CPU 13 determines that a visitor operating the first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N and the second data terminals 4-1 to 4-N has not operated the pointing device to select "3" as booth selection number N, the CPU 13 determines whether the visitor operating the first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N and the second data terminals 4-1 to 4-N has operated the pointing device to select "4" as booth selection number N (13). If the CPU 13 determines that "4" has been selected as booth selection number N, it sets the display control unit 16-3 to mode 4, which indicates the attendant moving in the virtual space (18), and proceeds to step (21).

[0056] On the other hand, in step (13), if the CPU 13 determines that a visitor operating the first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N and the second data terminals 4-1 to 4-N has not operated the pointing device to select "4" as booth selection number N, it determines whether the visitor operating the first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N and the second data terminals 4-1 to 4-N has operated the pointing device to select "5" as booth selection number N (14). If the CPU 13 determines that "5" has been selected as booth selection number N, it sets the display control unit 16-3 to mode 5, which indicates the attendant moving in the virtual space (19), and proceeds to step (21).

[0057] Meanwhile, in step (14), if the CPU 13 determines that a visitor operating the first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N and the second data terminals 4-1 to 4-N has not operated the pointing device to select "5" as booth selection number N, the CPU 13 determines whether the visitor operating the first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N and the second data terminals 4-1 to 4-N has operated the pointing device to select "N (=6)" as booth selection number N (15). If the CPU 13 determines that "6" has been selected as booth selection number N, it sets the display control unit 16-3 to mode 6, which indicates the attendant's movement in the virtual space (20), and proceeds to step (21). In this state, the attendant is moving (walking) to the exhibition booth that matches the number selected by the visitor operating the first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N and the second data terminals 4-1 to 4-N. If, in step (15), the CPU 13 determines that it has not selected "6" as the booth selection number N, the process returns to step (8).

[0058] Next, the CPU 13 activates the attendant control unit 16-2 to adjust the voice-over status of the narration set for each exhibition booth (21). This allows the attendant to adjust the difficulty level of the explanation according to the visitor's gender and age, and to explain the products, goods, services, etc. to the visitor in a friendly and courteous manner.

[0059] Next, the CPU 13 determines whether the visitor operating the first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N and the second data terminals 4-1 to 4-N is moving the attendant's spatial coordinates to a pre-set HOT point (multiple points can be set) in the virtual space (22). If the CPU 13 determines that the virtual space coordinates where the attendant is currently drawn are staying at a HOT point (a predetermined time elapsed is counted), the CPU 13 further determines whether it is appropriate to switch the drawing mode in the virtual space from virtual to real (23). If the CPU 13 determines that it is not appropriate to switch the drawing mode in the virtual space from virtual to real, it determines whether the visitor operating the first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N and the second data terminals 4-1 to 4-N has given an instruction to exit the virtual space (25). If the CPU 13 determines that the visitor has given an instruction to exit, it terminates this process.

[0060] On the other hand, if in step (25) the CPU 13 determines that it has not issued an instruction to exit, it returns to step (5).

[0061] On the other hand, in step (23), if the CPU 13 determines that it is appropriate to switch the rendering mode in the virtual space from virtual to real, it activates the display control unit 16-3 to switch the rendering mode of the platform 1A to real rendering (24), and proceeds to step (25).

[0062] This allows visitors operating the first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N and the second data terminals 4-1 to 4-N to be guided to view the exhibitors' real showrooms, which are not visible in the virtual space, on their browsers without requiring them to perform any screen switching operations.

[0063] [Effects of the First Embodiment] According to this embodiment, by focusing on the attendant's explanation of the items displayed in the virtual space in conjunction with a large panel display, users can easily and enjoyably view the exhibits while clearly understanding the explanations of the exhibits, thereby sharing a sense of presence as if they were at a real exhibition or showroom.

[0064] In this embodiment, we have described virtual space display control mainly involving an attendant narrating to visitors. However, assuming that visitors operating the first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N and the second data terminals 4-1 to 4-N are equipped with voice response devices (microphones and speakers), the AI ​​support unit 19 may adapt to prompts transcribed into text via a large-scale language model (LLM) to implement a question-and-answer function (incorporating the function processing procedure into the flowchart shown in Figure 9) that allows visitors to listen to more in-depth explanations of the generated product descriptions or view a list of similar products.

[0065] [Second Embodiment] In the above embodiment, the functional processing of attendants in a virtual exhibition booth was described, but a system that utilizes virtual space may also include a configuration that supports a service that provides a virtual showroom in addition to a virtual exhibition booth.

[0066] Figure 12 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of the exhibition support system shown in this embodiment. Components identical to those in Figure 2 are given the same reference numerals and their descriptions are omitted.

[0067] The display control unit 16-3 in the server device 1 shown in Figure 12 has a configuration that allows the CPU 13 to reversibly switch from virtual space to physical space for visitors operating the first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N and visitors operating the second data terminals 4-1 to 4-N.

[0068] Figure 13 is a diagram showing how the exhibition support system in this embodiment is used. In this embodiment, an example of an exhibition support system is provided in which a server device 1 that provides a service of a virtual showroom built on the cloud is able to communicate with first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N and second data terminals 4-1 to 4-N operated by visitors to the virtual showroom, and third data terminals 5-1 to 5-N operated by exhibitors who display goods etc. in the virtual showroom.

[0069] In Figure 13, a system may be configured to meet the needs of exhibitors by linking a first mode in which a virtual showroom (intended to be permanently installed in the virtual space) that is made public as a virtual space and a virtual exhibition booth (intended to be installed in the virtual showroom when exhibiting at an exhibition) are linked, and a second mode in which a real showroom (real space) that is made public as a physical space and a real exhibition booth are linked together.

[0070] As a result, in the virtual exhibition screen shown as an example in Figure 14, the attendant displayed in the virtual showroom can reversibly receive requests from visitors operating the first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N and the second data terminals 4-1 to 4-N to transfer from the display state of any virtual booth to the display state of a real booth provided by the organizer and associated with that virtual booth. In response, the display control unit 16-3 can reversibly control the switching from the display state of a virtual booth to the display state of a real booth, or from the display state of a real booth to the display state of a virtual booth.

[0071] In this case, the display control unit 16-3 is configured to also perform summarized video playback according to the video playback history when playing video information of the actual booth to be played. This makes it possible to quickly view popular videos that visitors who have already visited have shown interest in.

[0072] Similarly, the design unit 16-4 shown in Figure 12 executes functional processing to design the layout of each virtual booth to be displayed in the virtual showroom by acquiring booth designs and exhibition materials to be displayed from the third data terminals 5-1 to 5-N.

[0073] Furthermore, the parts data necessary for booth design is stored in external memory 18, and when the CPU 13 starts the design unit 16-4, it can utilize variations of booth design parts that meet the exhibitor's requirements.

[0074] Furthermore, the generation unit 16-5 shown in Figure 12 performs a functional process to generate a design that is embellished from pre-set decorating data, with shape, hue, and size determined from the third data terminals 5-1 to 5-N, so that the display manner of the fixtures to be placed in each exhibition booth has a consistent look and feel.

[0075] Similarly, the generation unit 16-5 shown in Figure 12 summarizes the listing information obtained from the third data terminals 5-1 to 5-N and performs functional processing to automatically generate the display order and content of the listing information.

[0076] Similarly, the generation unit 16-5 shown in Figure 12 performs functional processing to readjust the display order of the acquired exhibit information and the content of the exhibit information, according to the priority order that the AI ​​has summarized from the questionnaire responses of visitors from the first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N and the second data terminals 4-1 to 4-N to each exhibit booth.

[0077] On the other hand, the first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N and the second data terminals 4-1 to 4-N, which communicate with the server device 1 shown in Figure 2, may be configured to include a viewpoint indicator unit that instructs the server device 1 on the viewing position of items displayed in the real booth according to the 3D viewpoint coordinates indicated by the visitor, thereby allowing visitors to view drawn images of the real booth (including real showrooms and real exhibition booths) adapted to their viewpoint.

[0078] Furthermore, the server device 1 shown in Figure 12 is equipped with an intermediary unit 16-6 that mediates voice responses between visitors and the first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N and the second data terminals 4-1 to 4-N for items exhibited in the physical booth, and it is also possible to configure the system as one that integrates visual and auditory elements by setting up a voice response environment.

[0079] This significantly improves visitors' understanding of explanations received from attendants, making it possible to clearly communicate the exhibitor's intentions.

[0080] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 12, the server device 1 may be configured to include a first determination unit 16-7 that determines whether the logo information used by visitors operating the first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N and the second data terminals 4-1 to 4-N is similar to the color tone of the exhibition booth, a second determination unit 16-8 that determines whether the color tone of the exhibition booth is similar, and a logo display control unit 16-9 that automatically adjusts the brightness and contrast of the logo information so that the visual recognition of the logo information is clear when it is determined that the color tone of the exhibition booth is similar to the logo information. This prevents visitors from overlooking trademarks and logos used by exhibitors in exhibition booths or showrooms where trademarks and logs are designed.

[0081] [Effects of the Second Embodiment] According to this embodiment, when a showroom and a display booth are made public on platform 1A, it is possible to switch between mutual public access and separate public access between a virtual mode exhibition using a virtual space and a real mode exhibition using a physical space, on a single system, according to the needs of visitors and exhibitors.

[0082] [Third Embodiment] In the above embodiment, visitors operating the first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N and the second data terminals 4-1 to 4-N are required to make some kind of advance reservation for some kind of virtual exhibition. However, in normal systems, visitors are assumed to enter on a free-entry basis, so the convenience and scalability of the reservation system are often not flexible.

[0083] Therefore, the server device 1 may be configured to have a reservation management function that integrates visitor reservation processing for both virtual and real exhibitions, thereby improving visitor convenience by linking visitor reservation processing between real and virtual exhibitions, or between real and virtual showrooms, in accordance with the visitor's needs.

[0084] Figures 15 to 17 show the configuration of the reservation function processing of the exhibition support system in this embodiment. In this example, promotional activities may be included to ensure that visitors who are likely to become HOT leads participate in virtual space events or real-world events.

[0085] Furthermore, in this embodiment, an example of an exhibition support system is provided, which includes a server device 1 that provides a service of presenting a virtual showroom built on the cloud via a predetermined communication medium, a first data terminal 3-1 to 3-N and a second data terminal 4-1 to 4-N operated by visitors to the virtual showroom or virtual exhibition, and a third data terminal 5-1 to 5-N operated by an exhibitor participating in the virtual showroom or virtual exhibition as a host, and which can communicate with each other.

[0086] Figure 18 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of the exhibition support system shown in this embodiment. The same reference numerals are used for the same components as in Figure 2, and their descriptions are omitted.

[0087] In the server device 1 shown in Figure 18, 16-71 is a first reservation screen display unit that performs the process of displaying to the first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N a first reservation screen for visiting a virtual showroom or virtual exhibition, or a second reservation screen for visiting a real showroom or real exhibition.

[0088] 16-72 is the first reservation registration unit, which, in response to visitors operating the first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N entering visitor information on the first reservation screen or the second reservation screen, executes a first reservation registration process that links the first visit reservation to the virtual showroom or virtual exhibition with the second visit reservation to the real showroom or real exhibition in a reservation management table (reserved in external memory 18).

[0089] 16-73 is a second reservation screen presentation unit that performs a second reservation screen presentation process to present a third reservation screen for visiting a virtual showroom or a real showroom, or a fourth reservation screen for visiting a virtual exhibition or a real exhibition, to the first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N.

[0090] 16-74 is a second reservation registration unit that, in response to visitors operating the first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N entering visitor information on the third reservation screen or the fourth reservation screen, executes a second reservation registration process that registers the third visit reservation for the virtual showroom or real showroom and the fourth visit reservation for the virtual exhibition or the real exhibition into a reservation management table.

[0091] 16-75 is a second reservation screen presentation unit that, when a visitor operating the first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N visits a virtual showroom selected by the visitor, performs a third reservation screen presentation process to the first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N, allowing the visitor to select one of the first to fourth reservation screens of their choice.

[0092] 16-76 is a guidance control unit that determines the participation pattern of a visitor operating the first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N and performs guidance control to switch and control the guidance procedure to the first to fourth reservation screens desired by the visitor.

[0093] Here, the guidance control unit 16-76 has a determination function that compares the location information of the visitor operating the first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N with the location information of the real showroom or real exhibition to determine whether or not it is possible to visit in person. If it determines that it is not possible to visit in person, it executes a process to guide the visitor operating the first data terminal to a reservation screen that prompts them to make a reservation to visit the virtual exhibition or virtual showroom.

[0094] Furthermore, the guidance control unit 16-76 has a determination function that compares the location information of the visitor operating the first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N with the location information of the real showroom or real exhibition to determine whether or not it is possible to visit directly. If it determines that it is possible to visit directly, it executes a process to guide the visitor operating the first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N to a reservation screen that prompts them to make a reservation to visit the real exhibition or real showroom.

[0095] In Figure 15, in Stage ST1, search engine optimization (SEO), online advertising, and offline advertising are implemented to ensure that search engines find the content. Next, in Stage ST2, users who have shown interest in Stage ST1 (those who are not yet confirmed as visitors) are guided to the company's website (virtual showroom).

[0096] Next, in Stage ST3, we will send invitation emails to visitors from our company's website, hoping for free attendance.

[0097] Furthermore, Stage ST4-1 manages reservations for the virtual showroom or virtual exhibition via the reservation page described later, using Stage ST3.

[0098] Furthermore, Stage ST4-2 manages the reservations of viewers for real showrooms or exhibitions via the reservation page described later, using Stage ST3.

[0099] Server device 1 assigns points to each reservation holder based on specific response parameters (questionnaire analysis, brochure delivery request, business meeting request), and then sorts and manages visitors into those to be treated as HOT leads and those to be treated as other visitors based on their total points.

[0100] This allows sales representatives to contact, visit, or initiate sales activities such as Zoom meetings with attendees who have a high probability of closing a deal, at the appropriate time.

[0101] Figure 16 shows an example of a venue reservation type for the exhibition support system illustrating this embodiment, illustrating an example where reservation processing for exhibitions and showrooms is exclusively accepted.

[0102] Figure 17 shows an excerpt of the venue reservation screen of the exhibition support system illustrating this embodiment. For example, the virtual exhibition booth visitor reservation screen is configured with date cells arranged horizontally and time cells arranged vertically, allowing visitors to make their own selections.

[0103] Furthermore, to flexibly handle cancellations and date / time changes after booking, a specific password can be issued via email to the person who made the reservation, allowing for flexible addition, modification, and deletion of reservation dates and times. It is also possible to configure the narration control unit 16-31's function processing as a method.

[0104] [Effects of the Third Embodiment] According to this embodiment, regardless of whether the transport space instructed by the visitor operating the first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N and the second data terminals 4-1 to 4-N is between real spaces or between virtual spaces, the visitor can be guided to efficiently perform a series of reservation processes that link each space with simple operations.

[0105] [Fourth Embodiment] In the above embodiment, it was explained that a user who searches the company homepage of an exhibitor participating in a virtual exhibition is guided to the reservation process for the virtual exhibition. However, it is desirable for the system to be configured so that the information that visitors provide as feedback upon their arrival can be appropriately surveyed by the exhibitor to obtain reactions regarding new product development, changes in product design, and related product ideas and services.

[0106] Therefore, the server device 1 may be configured to incorporate a function that can automatically create and propose the core structure of the questionnaire intended by the exhibitor, the number of questionnaire items to obtain the desired responses, the expression style of the questionnaire text, the number of text items, etc.

[0107] [Questionnaire Processing] Figure 19 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of the exhibition support system shown in this embodiment. This system is an example of an exhibition support system that enables communication between a server device 1 that provides a service of a virtual showroom built on the cloud via a predetermined communication medium, first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N and second data terminals 4-1 to 4-N operated by visitors to the virtual showroom, third data terminals 5-1 to 5-N operated by exhibitors exhibiting in the virtual showroom, and fourth data terminals 2-1 to 2-N operated by the organizer presenting the virtual showroom.

[0108] In the server device 1 shown in Figure 19, 16-21 is a questionnaire screen display unit that, in accordance with instructions from the first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N and the second data terminals 4-1 to 4-N, executes a process to display a questionnaire screen prompting visitors to respond to the questionnaire, based on the movement status of the attendant to each exhibition booth displayed in the virtual showroom or the amount of text spoken about each exhibition booth.

[0109] 16-22 analyzes the responses entered from the first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N to the questionnaire screen displayed by the indexing unit and questionnaire screen display unit 16-21, calculates evaluation values ​​for the organizers, visitors, and exhibitors, and performs the process of creating an index.

[0110] Sections 16-23 are generation units that perform the process of generating effective response messages for organizers, visitors, and exhibitors.

[0111] At that time, the sending unit 16-24 executes the process of sending a questionnaire report, which combines the response message generated by the generation unit 16-23 and the evaluation value indexed by the indexing unit 16-22, to the third data terminals 5-1 to 5-N and the fourth data terminals 2-1 to 2-N.

[0112] Here, it is assumed that the order, content, and length of the text displayed on the survey screen are pre-assigned evaluation values ​​for metric purposes. This makes it possible to clearly identify whether or not a visitor is a "HOT lead" by assigning a point evaluation value to them.

[0113] In this process, the evaluation score will be structured to adjust based on the impression of the exhibition booth, the deviation of the survey responses, and the response messages.

[0114] Here, the fourth data terminals 2-1 to 2-N, operated by the organizer, shall be equipped with an update function that updates the design standards, including the color tone, brightness, shape, size, and spatial representation of the exhibition booth, based on the impression of the exhibition booth.

[0115] Furthermore, the server device 1 includes a business negotiation guidance system 16-25 that analyzes the responses entered from the first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N in response to the questionnaire screen displayed by the questionnaire screen display unit 16-21, and guides the visitor and the exhibitor operating the third data terminal to a booth where they can begin business negotiations. Here, the booths are assumed to consist of real conference booths.

[0116] Figures 20 to 23 show examples of questionnaire screens displayed by the questionnaire screen display unit 16-21 shown in Figure 19.

[0117] In Figures 20 to 23, each questionnaire screen is set with directional headers H1 to H6 indicating the questionnaire scenario, and the number of inquiry items is limited to about 1 to 6, allowing visitors operating the first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N to answer immediately in an environment where their excitement is clearly felt upon arrival. Furthermore, the remarks field screen shown in Figure 23 is designed to allow for free and open comments, without setting text that would lead to business negotiations.

[0118] Here, by having visitors write messages (impressions (+ opinion, - opinion)), it becomes possible to create a summary that is effective during the subsequent LLM analysis. Furthermore, in the remarks column screen shown in Figure 23, after a visitor operating the first data terminal 3-1 to 3-N submits their response and presses the submit button H6-BT, it is automatically uploaded to a pre-configured questionnaire collection box (which can be specified by URL).

[0119] [Effects of the Fourth Embodiment] According to this embodiment, exhibitors can obtain appropriate questionnaire responses to gain feedback on new product development, changes in product design, and related product ideas and services, and can provide effective feedback to the exhibitors.

[0120] Since the content of the questionnaires is expected to differ from visitor to visitor, it is desirable to automatically generate a summary document tailored to the exhibition content using the AI ​​support unit 19 shown in Figure 2.

[0121] [Fifth Embodiment] In the above embodiment, we described a system in which the server device 1 maintains a one-to-one relationship with each visitor when the visitor administers an effective questionnaire to the exhibitor at an appropriate time, summarizes the response process, and notifies the first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N etc. operated by the visitor. However, in the case of multiple visitors, for example, a visitor and their supervisor may use multiple data terminals to visit the virtual exhibition and virtual showroom that they have booked on the same day. Furthermore, it is desirable to construct a system that is flexible enough to accommodate various configurations, such as each visitor visiting booths in any order they choose, or browsing the showroom and the exhibition.

[0122] Therefore, in an exhibition support system in which a server device 1 that provides a service of a virtual showroom built on the cloud via a predetermined communication medium can communicate with first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N operated by visitors to the virtual showroom, the server device 1 may be configured to include the following functional processing means.

[0123] Figure 24 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the exhibition support system according to this embodiment. Components identical to those in Figure 2 are denoted by the same reference numerals and their descriptions are omitted.

[0124] The server device 1 shown in Figure 24 includes a generation unit 16-1 that generates an attendant that can move within the virtual showroom, and a narration control unit 16-31 that controls the movement state of the attendant and the audio content that the attendant should explain to the user based on operation instructions from the first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N.

[0125] Here, the narration control unit 16-31 is configured to comprehensively control the difficulty level of the explanation, the speed of the explanation, and the language used for the explanation, based on the registration information of the visitors, for the audio content that the attendant should explain to the visitors.

[0126] Furthermore, the narration control unit 16-31 is configured to comprehensively control the attendant's actions, including facial expressions, appearance, and hand gestures, based on responses from the first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N.

[0127] Furthermore, the narration control unit 16-31 is configured to identify and automatically respond to the responses of multiple users.

[0128] Furthermore, the narration control unit 16-31 is configured to determine the level of coordination among multiple users who are present at the same time and to adjust the content of their responses accordingly.

[0129] Furthermore, the narration control unit 16-31 is configured to issue instructions to multiple first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N, operated by multiple visitors who are simultaneously visiting the exhibition, to gather at a desired location within the exhibition booth.

[0130] Furthermore, the narration control unit 16-31 is configured to control the screen display so as to mark the current location of multiple first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N operated by multiple visitors (visitors with a high degree of relationship, such as a boss and a subordinate) who are present at the same time.

[0131] Furthermore, the narration control unit 16-31 is configured to, upon receiving notification that the attendant has started moving from a predetermined explanation start position and moved to a predetermined waiting position, to have the attendant provide instructions to the visitor operating the first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N, guiding them to move to an exhibition booth independent of the currently displayed exhibition booth (for example, an exhibition booth reserved for business negotiations).

[0132] Furthermore, the narration control unit 16-31 controls the screen display to mark the current location of multiple first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N operated by multiple visitors who are visiting simultaneously. The narration control unit 16-31 is configured to control the screen display to swap or display two screens side-by-side the exhibition booths that each user is viewing, based on the marked exhibition booths being viewed. It is also possible to configure the narration control unit 16-31's functional processing as a method.

[0133] [Effects of the Fifth Embodiment] According to this embodiment, when there are multiple visitors, for example, a visitor and their supervisor may use multiple data terminals to visit the virtual exhibition and virtual showroom that they have booked on the same day. Furthermore, it is possible to construct a flexible system that allows each visitor to visit the booths in any order they choose, or to browse the showroom and the exhibition.

[0134] [Sixth Embodiment] The second data processing in the server device 1 in the second embodiment (movement display control between virtual space and real space) will be described in detail below.

[0135] Figures 25 and 26 are flowcharts showing the second data processing procedure in the server device 1 shown in this embodiment. (31) to (40) indicate the respective steps, and each step is realized by the CPU 13 loading the control program stored in the external memory 18 into the RAM 16 and executing it.

[0136] First, the CPU 13 determines whether the space where the attendant is staying is a virtual space based on the screen ID (ID = 0, 1) (31). If the CPU 13 determines that it is a virtual space, it then determines whether the transport space instructed by the visitor operating the first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N and the second data terminals 4-1 to 4-N is a real space (32). If the CPU 13 determines that the transport space is a real space (YES), it controls the switching to a display that transports the visitor from the virtual screen to the real space (33).

[0137] On the other hand, in step (31), if the CPU 13 determines that the transport space is not a virtual space (NO), it switches the display to indicate transport from real space to virtual space (34) and proceeds to step (38).

[0138] Next, when the CPU 13 moves to the real space, it displays a screen for selecting a business negotiation booth (not shown) and determines whether the visitor operating the first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N and the second data terminals 4-1 to 4-N has given an instruction to select one of the business negotiation booths (35). If it determines that the visitor has not selected a business negotiation booth, it proceeds to step (40).

[0139] On the other hand, in step (35), if the CPU 13 determines that a visitor operating the first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N or the second data terminals 4-1 to 4-N has given an instruction to select one of the negotiation booths (negotiation rooms), it performs screen control to guide the visitor to the corresponding negotiation room based on the selected negotiation booth number (36).

[0140] Then, once the CPU 13 confirms that a business negotiation has ended in any of the negotiation booths (37), the CPU 13 further determines whether the visitor operating the first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N or the second data terminals 4-1 to 4-N has requested a transfer space switch by operating the destination selection button on the panel display screen (not shown) (40). If the CPU 13 determines that the visitor operating the first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N or the second data terminals 4-1 to 4-N has not requested a transfer space switch, the CPU 13 terminates this process.

[0141] On the other hand, in step (40), if the CPU 13 determines that there is a request to switch transport spaces from a visitor operating the first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N and the second data terminals 4-1 to 4-N, it returns to step (31) and starts the process of viewing the attendant's explanation in the virtual-real space as a visitor.

[0142] Meanwhile, in step (34), the CPU 13 controls the display to switch from the real space to the virtual space, then restarts the attendant's narration (38). After that, the CPU 13 determines whether the visitors operating the first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N and the second data terminals 4-1 to 4-N have issued a booth switching instruction (39). If the CPU 13 determines that the visitors operating the first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N and the second data terminals 4-1 to 4-N have not issued a booth switching instruction, it returns to step (38).

[0143] On the other hand, in step (39), if the CPU 13 determines that a visitor operating the first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N or the second data terminals 4-1 to 4-N has issued a booth switching instruction, the system returns to step (32).

[0144] [Effects of the Sixth Embodiment] According to this embodiment, when a showroom and a display booth are made public on platform 1A, it is possible to switch between mutual public access and separate public access between a virtual mode exhibition using a virtual space and a real mode exhibition using a physical space, on a single system, according to the needs of visitors and exhibitors.

[0145] [Seventh Embodiment] The third data processing in the server device 1 of the third embodiment (reservation processing in virtual space and real space) will be described in detail below.

[0146] Figures 27 and 28 are flowcharts showing the third data processing procedure in the server device 1 shown in this embodiment. (41) to (57) indicate the respective steps, and each step is realized by the CPU 13 loading the control program stored in the external memory 18 into the RAM 16 and executing it.

[0147] First, the CPU 13 determines whether the reservation destination requested by the visitor operating the first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N and the second data terminals 4-1 to 4-N is a virtual-real space (41). If the CPU 13 determines that the reservation destination requested by the visitor operating the first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N and the second data terminals 4-1 to 4-N is a virtual-real space, the CPU proceeds to step (50).

[0148] On the other hand, in step (41), if the CPU 13 determines that the reservation destination requested by the visitor operating the first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N and the second data terminals 4-1 to 4-N does not require a virtual-real space, the CPU 13 further determines whether the reservation destination requested by the visitor operating the first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N and the second data terminals 4-1 to 4-N requires a virtual space (42). If the CPU 13 determines that the reservation destination requires a virtual space, the CPU 13 displays the first reservation screen on the displays 311 of the first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N and the second data terminals 4-1 to 4-N (43).

[0149] Next, after the CPU 13 confirms that virtual reservation information has been entered by a visitor operating the first reservation screen via the first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N and the second data terminals 4-1 to 4-N (45), the CPU 13 registers the virtual reservation information entered by the visitor operating the first reservation screen via the first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N and the second data terminals 4-1 to 4-N in the database 14 (46).

[0150] On the other hand, in step (42), if the CPU 13 determines that the reservation destination requested by the visitor operating the first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N and the second data terminals 4-1 to 4-N does not require a virtual space, the CPU 13 presents the second reservation screen to the first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N and the second data terminals 4-1 to 4-N (44). After confirming that real-world reservation information has been entered by the visitor operating the first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N and the second data terminals 4-1 to 4-N via the second reservation screen (47), the CPU 13 registers the real-world reservation information entered by the visitor operating the first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N and the second data terminals 4-1 to 4-N via the first reservation screen in the database 14 (48).

[0151] Next, the CPU 13 determines whether the reservation process from visitors operating the first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N and the second data terminals 4-1 to 4-N has been completed (49). If the CPU 13 determines that the process has been completed, it terminates this process.

[0152] On the other hand, if the CPU 13 determines in step (49) that the process has not terminated, it returns to step (41).

[0153] On the other hand, if in step (41) the CPU 13 determines that it is a reservation request between the virtual and real spaces, it proceeds to step (50).

[0154] Here, the CPU 13 determines whether a visitor operating the first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N or the second data terminals 4-1 to 4-N is requesting a showroom reservation. If the CPU 13 determines that a visitor operating the first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N or the second data terminals 4-1 to 4-N is requesting a showroom reservation, the CPU 13 displays a third reservation screen on the display 311 operating the first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N or the second data terminals 4-1 to 4-N (51), and accepts the showroom reservation information (between a virtual showroom and a real showroom) entered by the visitor.

[0155] On the other hand, in step (50), if the CPU 13 determines that the visitor operating the first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N and the second data terminals 4-1 to 4-N has not requested a showroom reservation, the CPU 13 displays a fourth reservation screen on the display 311 operating the first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N and the second data terminals 4-1 to 4-N (52), and accepts the reservation information for showrooms (between the virtual exhibition and the real exhibition) entered by the visitor.

[0156] Next, the CPU 13 determines whether or not it is necessary to link the third reservation screen and the fourth reservation screen (53). If the CPU 13 determines that it is necessary to link the third reservation screen and the fourth reservation screen, it registers the virtual-real exhibition reservation information in the database 14 (54).

[0157] On the other hand, in step (53), if the CPU 13 determines that it is not necessary to link the third reservation screen and the fourth reservation screen, it registers the virtual-real showroom reservation information in the database 14 (55).

[0158] Next, the CPU 13 determines whether it is necessary to link each of the reservation information registered in the database 14 (56). If the CPU 13 determines that it is necessary to link them, it adds a parameter indicating the linkage between the third visit reservation and the fourth visit reservation and registers it in the database 14 (57), then returns to step (42).

[0159] On the other hand, if the CPU 13 determines in step (56) that it is not necessary to coordinate, it proceeds to step (49).

[0160] [Effects of the Seventh Embodiment] According to this embodiment, regardless of whether the transport space instructed by the visitor operating the first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N and the second data terminals 4-1 to 4-N is between real spaces or between virtual spaces, the visitor can be guided to efficiently perform a series of reservation processes that link each space with simple operations.

[0161] [Eighth Embodiment] The fourth data processing (questionnaire processing) in the server device 1 in the fourth embodiment described above will be explained in detail below.

[0162] Figures 29 and 30 are flowcharts showing the fourth data processing procedure in the server device 1 shown in this embodiment. (61) to (72) indicate the respective steps, and each step is realized by the CPU 13 loading the control program stored in the external memory 18 into the RAM 16 and executing it.

[0163] First, the CPU 13 counts the amount of text narrated by the attendant (61). This is because the amount of text required for narration may differ depending on whether it is a standardized narration or if the narration is modified based on interaction with visitors.

[0164] Next, the CPU 13 determines, based on the attendant's movement in the virtual space, whether it is time to ask visitors to complete a questionnaire (for example, a timing determined by the distance the attendant has moved within the space and the amount of narrated text) (62).

[0165] If the CPU 13 determines that it is not time to ask for a survey, it returns to step (61).

[0166] On the other hand, in step (62), if the CPU 13 determines that it is time to request the questionnaire, the CPU 13 displays the questionnaire screen on the displays 311 of the first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N and the second data terminals 4-1 to 4-N operated by the visitor (63).

[0167] Next, the CPU 13 analyzes the text content entered on the questionnaire screen (64). In this embodiment, points are assigned to favorable and negative responses, and the system is configured to extract keywords, add points, and determine the evaluation value. Next, the CPU 13 performs a process to index (display as a percentage) the evaluation value (65).

[0168] Next, the CPU 13 determines whether the index exceeds a predetermined threshold based on the answers to several questionnaire sheets (66), and if it determines that it exceeds the predetermined threshold, it proceeds to step (69).

[0169] On the other hand, in step (66), if the CPU 13 determines that a predetermined threshold has not been exceeded, it reads information from the database 14 that indicates that a return visit is expected and generates a message (67). After creating the generated message in a format to be attached to the questionnaire report, it sends the questionnaire report to the first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N and the second data terminals 4-1 to 4-N (68), and then terminates the process.

[0170] On the other hand, if it is determined in step (66) that a predetermined threshold has been exceeded, the system performs a process to guide the first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N and the second data terminals 4-1 to 4-N to the negotiation screen (69). This makes it possible to guide users to individually prepared negotiation sites by operating the negotiation screens presented on the first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N and the second data terminals 4-1 to 4-N.

[0171] Next, the CPU 13 operates the negotiation screens displayed on the first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N and the second data terminals 4-1 to 4-N to determine whether a negotiation has been concluded (70). If it determines that a negotiation has been concluded, it awards points usable in this system or on external e-commerce sites to the first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N and the second data terminals 4-1 to 4-N operated by the visitor (71), and returns to step (67).

[0172] On the other hand, if in step (70) the CPU 13 determines that the deal was not concluded, the CPU 13 notifies the first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N and the second data terminals 4-1 to 4-N of the next exhibition (72), and returns to step (67).

[0173] [Effects of the Eighth Embodiment] According to this embodiment, exhibitors can obtain appropriate questionnaire responses to gain feedback on new product development, changes in product design, and related product ideas and services, and can provide effective feedback to the exhibitors.

[0174] [Ninth Embodiment] The fifth data processing (real exhibition booth generation and display processing) in the server device 1 of the fifth embodiment will be described in detail below.

[0175] The system shown in this embodiment is an example of an exhibition support system that enables communication between a server device 1 that provides a service of providing a virtual showroom built on the cloud via a predetermined communication medium, first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N and second data terminals 4-1 to 4-N operated by visitors to the virtual showroom, third data terminals 5-1 to 5-N operated by exhibitors participating in the virtual showroom, and fourth data terminals 2-1 to 2-N operated by the organizer presenting the virtual showroom.

[0176] Figures 31 and 32 are flowcharts showing the fifth data processing procedure in the server device 1 shown in this embodiment. (81) to (92) indicate the respective steps, and each step is realized by the CPU 13 loading the control program stored in the external memory 18 into the RAM 16 and executing it.

[0177] First, the CPU 13 determines whether the exhibit information to be displayed is text (81). If it determines that the exhibit information to be displayed is text, it extracts text information from the exhibit information to be displayed (82). Specifically, it extracts text information from the exhibit information to be displayed obtained from the second data terminals 4-1 to 4-N to create different guidance messages that the attendant should speak according to the age group of the visitors (83).

[0178] On the other hand, in step (81), if the CPU 13 determines that the exhibition information to be displayed is not text, it extracts video information from the exhibition information to be displayed obtained from the second data terminals 4-1 to 4-N (84) and creates screen information to be switched and displayed according to the attendant's gestures (85).

[0179] Next, the CPU 13 acquires 3D image information corresponding to the real exhibition booths captured by the exhibitors at the third data terminals 5-1 to 5-N (86), and the CPU 13 executes a process to generate a digital twin of each exhibition booth (87).

[0180] Next, the CPU 13 executes the process of displaying the digital twin generated in step (87) within the virtual exhibition booth (88).

[0181] Next, the CPU 13 determines whether the visitors operating the first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N at the real exhibition have been instructed to move their viewpoint (89). If the CPU 13 determines that they have not been instructed to move their viewpoint, it returns to step (86) and repeats the same process.

[0182] On the other hand, in step (89), if the CPU 13 determines that a movement of the viewpoint has been instructed, the CPU 13 determines whether the trajectory of the viewpoint has changed significantly at the real exhibition (90). If the CPU 13 determines that it has detected a change in viewpoint that would cause a screen to switch, it controls the switching of the layout of the screen information to be presented to the first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N (91).

[0183] On the other hand, if in step (90) the CPU 13 determines that it has not detected a change in viewpoint that would cause the screen to switch, it returns to step (86). This allows the layout of the screens to be displayed to be switched in response to instructions given by visitors operating the first data terminals 3-1 to 3-N to the attendant, enabling visitors to view exhibits from their desired direction in a real exhibition, following their moving viewpoint in a natural way.

[0184] Next, the CPU 13 determines whether the operation screen displayed on the display 311 of the second data terminal 4-1 to 4-N is requesting instructions to leave the exhibition (92). If the CPU 13 determines that there is a request to leave, it terminates this process.

[0185] On the other hand, if in step (92) it is determined that the operation screen displayed on the display 311 of the second data terminal 4-1 to 4-N does not indicate a request to exit the exhibition, the process returns to step (89) and the same process is repeated.

[0186] [Effects of the 9th Embodiment] According to this embodiment, visitors can perceive the situation of the real exhibition, including the structure, exhibits, and content explanations of the real exhibition, through a digital twin screen on the virtual exhibition. This makes it possible to freely construct a complex exhibition support system that transcends the boundary between real and virtual.

[0187] The disclosure relating to the present invention described above can be summarized to at least the following:

[0188] (1) A reservation system that enables communication between a server device that provides a service of presenting a virtual space constructed on the cloud via a predetermined communication medium, a first data terminal operated by a visitor to a virtual showroom or virtual exhibition, and a second data terminal operated by an exhibitor exhibiting at the virtual showroom or virtual exhibition, wherein the server device comprises a first reservation screen presentation means that presents to the first data terminal a first reservation screen for visiting the virtual showroom or virtual exhibition or a second reservation screen for visiting a real showroom or real exhibition, and a first reservation registration means that, in response to a visitor operating the first data terminal entering visitor information on the first reservation screen or the second reservation screen, registers the first visit reservation to the virtual showroom or virtual exhibition and the second visit reservation to the real showroom or real exhibition in a reservation management table.

[0189] (2) The server device is characterized by comprising: a second reservation screen presentation means that presents to the first data terminal a third reservation screen for visiting the virtual showroom or the real showroom or a fourth reservation screen for visiting the virtual exhibition or the real exhibition; and a second reservation registration means that, in response to a visitor operating the first data terminal entering visitor information on the third reservation screen or the fourth reservation screen, registers the third visit reservation for the virtual showroom or the real showroom and the fourth visit reservation for the virtual exhibition or the real exhibition in a reservation management table that links them.

[0190] (3) The server device is characterized in that, when a visitor operating the first data terminal visits the virtual showroom selected by the visitor, it presents the first data terminal with a reservation screen display means that allows the visitor to select one of the first to fourth reservation screens of their choice.

[0191] (4) The server device is characterized by having guidance control means that determines the participation method of a visitor operating the first data terminal and switches and controls the procedure for guiding the visitor to the first to fourth reservation screens as desired by the visitor.

[0192] (5) The guidance control means includes a determination means that compares the location information of the visitor operating the first data terminal with the location information of the real showroom or real exhibition to determine whether or not it is possible to visit directly, and if the determination means determines that it is not possible to visit directly, the guidance control means guides the visitor operating the first data terminal to a reservation screen that prompts them to make a reservation to visit the virtual exhibition or the virtual showroom.

[0193] (6) The guidance control means includes a determination means that compares the location information of the visitor operating the first data terminal with the location information of the real showroom or real exhibition to determine whether or not it is possible to visit directly, and if the determination means determines that it is possible to visit directly, the guidance control means guides the visitor operating the first data terminal to a reservation screen that prompts them to make a reservation to visit the real exhibition or the real showroom.

[0194] (7) A method for linking a reservation system, wherein a server device that provides a service of presenting a virtual showroom built on the cloud via a predetermined communication medium, a first data terminal operated by a visitor to the virtual showroom or virtual exhibition, and a second data terminal operated by a participant in the virtual showroom or virtual exhibition can communicate with each other, wherein the server device comprises: a first reservation screen presentation step of presenting a first reservation screen for visiting the virtual showroom or virtual exhibition or a second reservation screen for visiting a real showroom or real exhibition to the first data terminal; and a first reservation registration step of registering the first reservation reservation for visiting the virtual showroom or virtual exhibition and the second reservation reservation for visiting the real showroom or real exhibition in a reservation management table, in response to the visitor operating the first data terminal entering visitor information on the first reservation screen or the second reservation screen.

[0195] (8) The server device is characterized by comprising: a second reservation screen presentation step of presenting a third reservation screen for visiting the virtual showroom or the real showroom or a fourth reservation screen for visiting the virtual exhibition or the real exhibition to the first data terminal; and a second reservation registration step of registering the third reservation for visiting the virtual showroom or the real showroom and the fourth reservation for visiting the virtual exhibition or the real exhibition in a reservation management table in response to the visitor entering visitor information on the date and time selected on the third reservation screen or the fourth reservation screen by the visitor operating the first data terminal.

[0196] The present invention can also be realized by supplying a program that implements one or more of the functions of the above-described embodiments to a system or device via a network or storage medium, and by a process in which one or more processors in the computer of that system or device read and execute the program. It can also be realized by a circuit (e.g., ASIC) that implements one or more functions.

[0197] In this embodiment, the functions of the exhibition support system involving virtual exhibitions, virtual showrooms, real exhibitions, and real showrooms are linked with image-based AI generation functions and text-based AI generation functions. As a result, the presentation functions of the server device 1 are expected to be significantly expanded, and there is a high possibility that the system will be able to fluidly switch between reality and virtuality depending on the visitor's perspective, interests, and the information to be disclosed.

[0198] Therefore, in order to enhance compatibility with the image generation AI function and the functional processing within the generation AI function, it is predicted that the amount of information stored and managed in the external memory 18 may become large.

[0199] Furthermore, the digital twin function requires rendering processing that allows real showrooms and real exhibition booths to coexist in a virtual space, which cannot be handled by a single server device 1. Therefore, it is desirable to have a system in which multiple server devices 1 work together, specializing in extended functions, and where external memory 18 is also distributed on the cloud.

[0200] Furthermore, it is possible to create a system that awards specific points to visitors and integrates them with a point system that can be used on various e-commerce shopping sites.

[0201] 1 Server device 1A Platform 2-1 to 2-N Fourth data terminal 3-1 to 3-N First data terminal 4-1 to 4-N Second data terminal 5-1 to 5-N Third data terminal

Claims

1. A reservation system that enables communication between a server device that provides a service of presenting a virtual space constructed on the cloud via a predetermined communication medium, a first data terminal operated by a visitor to a virtual showroom or virtual exhibition, and a second data terminal operated by an exhibitor exhibiting at the virtual showroom or virtual exhibition, wherein the server device comprises: a first reservation screen presentation means that presents to the first data terminal a first reservation screen for visiting the virtual showroom or virtual exhibition or a second reservation screen for visiting a real showroom or real exhibition; and a first reservation registration means that, in response to a visitor operating the first data terminal entering visitor information on the first reservation screen or the second reservation screen, registers the first visit reservation to the virtual showroom or virtual exhibition and the second visit reservation to the real showroom or real exhibition in a reservation management table.

2. The reservation system according to claim 1, wherein the server device comprises: a second reservation screen presentation means for presenting to the first data terminal a third reservation screen for visiting the virtual showroom or the real showroom or a fourth reservation screen for visiting the virtual exhibition or the real exhibition; and a second reservation registration means for registering in a reservation management table that links the third reservation for visiting the virtual showroom or the real showroom and the fourth reservation for visiting the virtual exhibition or the real exhibition, in response to the visitor entering visitor information on the third reservation screen or the fourth reservation screen by a visitor operating the first data terminal.

3. The reservation system according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the server device includes a reservation screen presentation means that, when a visitor operating the first data terminal visits the virtual showroom selected by the visitor, presents to the first data terminal one of the first to fourth reservation screens of the visitor's choice.

4. The reservation system according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the server device includes guidance control means for determining the participation pattern of a visitor operating the first data terminal and switching and controlling the procedure for guiding the visitor to the first to fourth reservation screens desired by the visitor.

5. The guidance control means includes a determination means that compares the location information of the visitor operating the first data terminal with the location information of the real showroom or real exhibition to determine whether or not it is possible to visit directly, and if the determination means determines that it is not possible to visit directly, the guidance control means guides the visitor operating the first data terminal to a reservation screen that prompts them to make a reservation to visit the virtual exhibition or the virtual showroom, characterized in that the reservation system is as described in 4.

6. The reservation system according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the guidance control means includes a determination means that compares the location information of the visitor operating the first data terminal with the location information of the real showroom or real exhibition to determine whether or not it is possible to visit directly, and if the determination means determines that it is possible to visit directly, the guidance control means guides the visitor operating the first data terminal to a reservation screen that prompts them to make a reservation to visit the real exhibition or the real showroom.

7. A method for linking a reservation system, wherein a server device that provides a service of presenting a virtual showroom built on the cloud via a predetermined communication medium, a first data terminal operated by a visitor to the virtual showroom or virtual exhibition, and a second data terminal operated by a participant in the virtual showroom or virtual exhibition are able to communicate, the method comprising: a first reservation screen presentation step of presenting a first reservation screen for visiting the virtual showroom or virtual exhibition or a second reservation screen for visiting a real showroom or real exhibition to the first data terminal; and a first reservation registration step of registering a first visit reservation to the virtual showroom or virtual exhibition and a second visit reservation to the real showroom or real exhibition in a reservation management table, in response to the visitor operating the first data terminal entering visitor information on the first reservation screen or the second reservation screen.

8. The method for linking a reservation system according to claim 7, wherein the server device comprises: a second reservation screen presentation step of presenting a third reservation screen for visiting the virtual showroom or the real showroom or a fourth reservation screen for visiting the virtual exhibition or the real exhibition to the first data terminal; and a second reservation registration step of registering the third reservation for visiting the virtual showroom or the real showroom and the fourth reservation for visiting the virtual exhibition or the real exhibition in a reservation management table, in response to a visitor operating the first data terminal entering visitor information on the third reservation screen or the fourth reservation screen.

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