JP2024049299A - Program and information processing system - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide a program capable of preventing a work of another people from clearly reflecting in a virtual space image, and an information processing system.SOLUTION: A program executed by a computer causes the computer to function as means for generating a virtual space 501, means for arranging a virtual camera, a user object 502, and a specific object in the virtual space 501, and means for generating a virtual space image, which is an image in the virtual space 501, on the basis of the virtual camera. The program also causes the computer to display a specific object in the virtual space image in a prescribed display mode when a display size of the specific object is greater than a prescribed size as the means for generating the virtual space image.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 12

Description

This disclosure relates to a program and an information processing system.

A technology is known in which a user object is moved within a virtual space based on user input, and a virtual space image is generated based on a virtual camera that moves in accordance with the movement of the user object.

Patent Document 1 discloses a game program that updates the transparency of an obstacle so that the transparency of the obstacle gradually increases if the distance between the virtual camera and the obstacle is within a predetermined distance in order to prevent the user's object from becoming invisible behind the obstacle in the virtual space. Patent Document 2 discloses an image rendering device that fades in an enemy character that battles the user's object in a virtual space, and fades out when the enemy character's remaining damage value in the battle reaches zero and the character is unable to act.

JP 2008-43589 A JP 2005-149315 A

However, when a user object moves close to another object in a virtual space, or when there is a large object nearby the user object, the other object may be clearly reflected in the virtual space image. There is a possibility that the other object may be the copyrighted work of another person, and there is a demand for technology that can prevent such a clear reflection of the copyrighted work of another person.

The purpose of this disclosure is to prevent other people's copyrighted works from being clearly reflected in virtual space images.

According to one embodiment shown in the present disclosure,
A program executed by a computer,
The program causes the computer to
A means for generating a virtual space;
means for placing a virtual camera, a user object, and a specific object in the virtual space;
a means for generating a virtual space image, which is an image of the virtual space, based on the virtual camera;
As a means for generating the virtual space image,
When a display size of the specific object in the virtual space image is larger than a predetermined size, the specific object is displayed in a predetermined display mode.
Programs are provided.

According to another embodiment of the present disclosure,
An information processing system including one or more information processing devices,
A process of generating a virtual space;
A process of placing a virtual camera, a user object, and a specific object in the virtual space;
A process of generating a virtual space image, which is an image of the virtual space, based on the virtual camera;
In the process of generating the virtual space image,
When a display size of the specific object in the virtual space image is larger than a predetermined size, the specific object is displayed in a predetermined display mode.
An information processing system is provided.

According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, it is possible to prevent other people's copyrighted work from being clearly reflected in a virtual space image.

FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a configuration of a system according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of the user terminal shown in FIG. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of the server shown in FIG. FIG. 4 shows an example of a virtual space image displayed on the user terminal shown in FIG. 1 by executing a program according to the comparative example. FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process related to providing a virtual space according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a virtual space according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a display screen according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a display screen according to the first modification of the first embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a display screen according to a comparative example of the second embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a display screen according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation flow of a program according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a display screen according to the third embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation flow of a program according to the third embodiment of the present disclosure.

The following describes in detail an embodiment of this technical idea with reference to the drawings. In the following description, the same components are given the same reference numerals. Their names and functions are also the same. Therefore, detailed descriptions thereof will not be repeated. In one or more embodiments shown in this disclosure, the elements included in each embodiment can be combined with each other, and the result of such combination is also considered to be part of the embodiment shown in this disclosure.

(System Configuration)
[First embodiment]
Below, as a first embodiment of the present disclosure, an example of a system will be described in which a user object is moved within a virtual space based on user operation input, and a virtual space image is provided to the user based on a virtual camera that moves in accordance with the movement of the user object.

The virtual space may be common to multiple users, or may be different for each of the multiple users. In other words, multiple user objects may exist in one virtual space, or one user object may exist in one virtual space. In addition, the virtual space may be generated using XR technology such as VR (Virtual Reality), AR (Augmented Reality), MR (Mixed Reality), and SR (Substitutional Reality).

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a system (information processing system) 1 according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 1, the system 1 includes user terminals 10A, 10B, and 10C used by multiple users, respectively, and a server 20, and these devices are connected to each other via a network 30 so as to be able to communicate with each other.

User terminal 10A and user terminal 10B connect to network 30 by communicating with wireless base station 31. User terminal 10C connects to network 30 by communicating with wireless router 32 installed in a facility such as a house. Hereinafter, user terminals such as user terminals 10A, 10B, and 10C are collectively referred to as "user terminal 10." Note that user terminal 10 may be configured to connect to network 30 by wired communication.

The user terminal 10 is a computer (information processing device) used by a user. The user terminal 10 may be a portable information terminal, or a stationary information terminal such as a PC (Personal Computer) or a game console. The user terminal 10 may or may not have a touch screen. The user terminal 10 may also be a head-mounted device (HMD) including AR goggles and AR glasses, or a contact-type device that can be worn on the eyes like contact lenses. In the following, the user terminal 10 will be described as a portable terminal with a touch screen, specifically, a smartphone, a phablet, a tablet, or the like.

The user terminal 10 executes, for example, an application program installed via a platform that distributes apps and the like. Note that instead of executing an application program, the user terminal 10 may execute software for browsing websites, i.e., a program obtained via a web browser.

The user terminal 10 is capable of generating a virtual space image and outputting the virtual space image to a display unit by executing a program such as an application program. When generating the virtual space image, the user terminal 10 can transmit and receive various data to and from the server 20 as necessary.

The server 20 transmits data necessary for generating a virtual space image to the user terminal 10 as appropriate. The server 20 manages various data related to the user. For example, the server 20 receives information related to the user's operation input from the user terminal 10 and executes processing according to the received information.

The server 20 has a hardware configuration including a communication IF (Interface) 22, an input/output IF 23, a memory 25, a storage 26, and a processor 29, which are connected to each other via a communication bus.

The communication IF 22 supports various communication standards, such as the LAN (Local Area Network) standard, and functions as an interface for transmitting and receiving data between external communication devices such as the user terminal 10.

The input/output IF 23 functions as an interface for accepting input of information to the server 20 and outputting information to the outside of the server 20. The input/output IF 23 includes an input accepting unit that accepts connection of information input devices such as a mouse and a keyboard, and an output unit that accepts connection of information output devices such as a display for displaying images, etc.

Memory 25 is a storage device for storing data and the like used in processing in server 20. Memory 25 provides processor 29 with a working area for temporary use when processor 29 performs processing, for example. Memory 25 is configured to include a storage device such as ROM (Read Only Memory) or RAM (Random Access Memory).

Storage 26 is a storage device for storing various programs and data to be read and executed by processor 29. Storage 26 is configured to include a storage device such as a HDD (Hard Disk Drive) or a flash memory.

The processor 29 controls the operation of the server 20 by reading and executing programs stored in the storage 26. The processor 29 includes, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit), an MPU (Micro Processing Unit), or a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit).

(Configuration of user terminal)
Fig. 2 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of the user terminal 10 shown in Fig. 1. As shown in Fig. 2, the user terminal 10 includes an antenna 110, a wireless communication IF 120, a touch screen 130, an input/output IF 140, a storage unit 150, a voice processing unit 160, a microphone 170, a speaker 180, and a control unit 190.

The antenna 110 radiates the signal emitted by the user terminal 10 into space as radio waves. The antenna 110 also receives radio waves from space and provides the received signal to the wireless communication IF 120.

The wireless communication IF 120 performs modulation and demodulation processing for transmitting and receiving signals via the antenna 110 etc. so that the user terminal 10 can communicate with other communication devices. The wireless communication IF 120 is a communication module for wireless communication that includes a tuner and a high-frequency circuit etc., performs modulation and demodulation and frequency conversion of the wireless signals transmitted and received by the user terminal 10, and provides the received signals to the control unit 190.

The touch screen 130 accepts input from the user and outputs information for the user to the display 132. The touch screen 130 includes a touch panel 131 for accepting input operations from the user, and a display 132 for displaying a menu screen, a virtual space image, and the like on the screen. The touch panel 131 can detect the approach of a user's finger, for example, by using a capacitive touch panel. The display 132 can be realized, for example, by an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), an organic EL (Electroluminescence), or other display device.

The input/output IF 140 accepts information input to the user terminal 10 and functions as an interface for outputting information outside the user terminal 10.

The storage unit 150 is configured with a flash memory, a RAM, or the like. The storage unit 150 can store various data that the user terminal 10 receives from the server 20. The storage unit 150 stores a program 151 that can provide a virtual space image to a user, virtual space information 152, and user information 153.

The virtual space information 152 includes, for example, information for generating a virtual space. The virtual space information 152 also includes, for example, information for generating various virtual objects, such as a virtual camera and a user object, that are placed in the virtual space. The virtual space information 152 also includes, for example, placement information for placing various virtual objects in the virtual space. The user information 153 includes, for example, a terminal ID (Identification) that identifies the user terminal 10, and user ID information that identifies the user.

The audio processing unit 160 modulates and demodulates audio signals. The audio processing unit 160 modulates the signal provided by the microphone 170 and provides the modulated signal to the control unit 190. The audio processing unit 160 also provides the audio signal to the speaker 180. The audio processing unit 160 is realized, for example, by a processor for audio processing. The microphone 170 functions as an audio input unit that receives input of an audio signal and outputs it to the control unit 190. The speaker 180 functions as an audio output unit that outputs the audio signal to the outside of the user terminal 10.

The control unit 190 controls the operation of the user terminal 10 by reading and executing programs stored in the storage unit 150. The control unit 190 is realized by a processor such as an application processor, for example.

The control unit 190 loads and executes the program 151 to perform the functions of an input operation reception unit 191, a transmission/reception unit 192, a space generation unit 193, a placement unit 194, a movement control unit 195, and an image generation unit 196. In one aspect, the control unit 190 generates a virtual space image while transmitting and receiving various information to and from the server 20.

The input operation reception unit 191 receives input operations from the user based on the output from the touch screen 130. Specifically, the input operation reception unit 191 detects the approach of the user's finger or the like to the touch panel 131 as coordinates in a coordinate system consisting of the horizontal and vertical axes of the surface that constitutes the touch screen 130.

The input operation reception unit 191 determines the user's operation on the touch screen 130. Specifically, the input operation reception unit 191 determines user operations such as so-called "approach operation," "release operation," "tap operation," "double tap operation," "long press operation (long touch operation)," "drag operation (swipe operation)," "move operation," and "flick operation." The user operations determined by the input operation reception unit 191 are not limited to those described above. For example, if the touch panel 131 has a mechanism capable of detecting the magnitude of pressure applied by the user to the touch panel 131, the input operation reception unit 191 determines the magnitude of pressure applied by the user.

The transmission/reception unit 192 receives various information from the server 20 and transmits various information to the server 20. The transmission/reception unit 192 receives, for example, at least a portion of the virtual space information 252 from the server 20. As an example, the transmission/reception unit 192 receives other user object information related to other user objects operated by other users from the server 20. The transmission/reception unit 192 transmits, for example, information related to the movement of user objects and other actions to the server 20.

The space generation unit 193 generates a virtual space by referring to the virtual space information 152. The space generation unit 193 also generates virtual objects such as a virtual camera and a user object to be placed in the virtual space. The virtual objects generated by the space generation unit 193 may include other user objects operated by other users, and screen objects for displaying videos.

The placement unit 194 places various virtual objects, such as a virtual camera and a user object, in the virtual space by referring to the placement information included in the virtual space information 152. For example, the placement unit 194 places other user objects in the virtual space based on other user object information. In addition, the placement unit 194 moves other user objects and other virtual objects based on information transmitted from the server 20, etc.

The movement control unit 195 moves the user object in the virtual space based on a movement operation for moving the user object (hereinafter also simply referred to as a "movement operation"). For example, the movement control unit 195 interprets the user's instruction based on the coordinates of the input position of the input operation accepted by the input operation acceptance unit 191 and the type of operation, and moves the user object based on the interpretation.

The image generation unit 196 generates a virtual space image, which is an image captured within the virtual space by the virtual camera, based on the virtual camera. The virtual space image generated by the image generation unit 196 is output to the touch screen 130 and displayed on the display 132.

When no movement operation has been performed, i.e., when the user object is stationary, the image generation unit 196 makes the user object transparent when generating the virtual space image. On the other hand, when a movement operation has been performed, i.e., when the user object is moving, the image generation unit 196 makes the user object opaque when generating the virtual space image.

When changing a user object in a virtual space image from opaque to transparent, it is preferable that the image generation unit 196 gradually increases the transparency of the user object. In other words, when a user object transitions from a moving state to a stationary state, the image generation unit 196 may perform a fade-out process so that the user object gradually changes from opaque to transparent. The period during which the fade-out process is performed is, for example, about 0.1 to 2 seconds.

When changing a user object in a virtual space image from transparent to opaque, it is preferable that the image generation unit 196 gradually decreases the transparency of the user object. In other words, when a user object transitions from a stationary state to a moving state, the image generation unit 196 may perform a fade-in process so that the user object gradually changes from transparent to opaque. The period during which the fade-in process is performed is, for example, about 0.1 to 2 seconds.

In addition, it is preferable that the image generating unit 196 generates a virtual space image so that the user object performs an accompanying action that accompanies the movement during a first period after the start of the movement operation. In addition, it is preferable that the image generating unit 196 generates a virtual space image so that the user object performs an accompanying action that accompanies the stop during a second period after the end of the movement operation. The first period and the second period may be the same length or may be different lengths. In addition, the image generating unit 196 may change the length of at least one of the first period and the second period depending on the type of accompanying action to be performed by the user object.

Accompanying actions include changes in the posture of the user object. For example, preparatory actions, which are accompanying actions associated with the movement of a user object, include actions that humans normally perform when starting to move, such as tilting the upper body of the user object, bending the arms, and bending the knees before jumping. Also, for example, aftertaste actions, which are accompanying actions associated with the stopping of a user object, include actions that humans normally perform when stopping movement, such as raising a tilted upper body, stretching the arms, and straightening the knees.

When a user object tilts its upper body as a preparatory movement and raises its upper body as a lingering movement, the change in the user object's movement is easy to understand, and the difference in movement between a stopped state and a moving state can be more effectively complemented. For this reason, it is preferable that the preparatory movement is to tilt the upper body, and the upper body is to be raised as a lingering movement.

It is also preferable that the image generation unit 196 maintains a constant distance between the virtual camera and the user object before and after the start of a movement operation and before and after the end of the movement operation. Note that "constant" includes some degree of error.

(Server configuration)
Fig. 3 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the server 20 shown in Fig. 1. The detailed configuration of the server 20 will be described with reference to Fig. 3. The server 20 operates according to a program 251 to fulfill the functions of a communication unit 220, a storage unit 250, and a control unit 290.

The communication unit 220 functions as an interface for the server 20 to communicate with external communication devices such as the user terminal 10 via the network 30.

The storage unit 250 stores various programs and data for operating the server 20. In one aspect, the storage unit 250 stores a program 251, virtual space information 252, and user information 253.

The program 251 is a program for providing a virtual space image to a user via the user terminal 10. For example, the program 251 refers to the virtual space information 252 and the user information 253, etc., and executes various processes on the server 20 side for providing the virtual space image to the user.

The virtual space information 252 includes, for example, information for generating a virtual space and information for generating various virtual objects to be placed in the virtual space. At least a portion of the virtual space information 252 is the information that forms the basis of the virtual space information 152. The virtual space information 252 may include information regarding the position and behavior of each user object in the virtual space. The virtual space information 252 may also include information regarding videos.

User information 253 is information about the user of each user terminal 10. For example, user information 253 includes information that identifies the user terminal 10 or the user of the user terminal 10, and other information.

The control unit 290 executes the program 251 stored in the memory unit 250 to perform the functions of a transmission/reception unit 291, a server processing unit 292, a data management unit 293, and a timing unit 294.

The transmission/reception unit 291 receives various information from the user terminal 10 and transmits various information to the user terminal 10. The user terminal 10 and the server 20 transmit and receive, for example, information related to the generation of the virtual space and virtual objects, information related to the movement and other actions of the user object, and information related to the playback of videos.

The server processing unit 292 performs various processes required by the server 20 to provide a virtual space to a user via the user terminal 10. The server processing unit 292 instructs the transmission/reception unit 291 to transmit various data in response to various requests from the user terminal 10 received by the transmission/reception unit 291. The server processing unit 292 also instructs the data management unit 293 to update various data based on the results of various calculations performed by the server processing unit 292.

The data management unit 293 performs processing to add, delete, or update various data stored in the storage unit 250 based on instructions from the server processing unit 292. The clock unit 294 performs processing to measure time. In addition, the clock unit 294 executes processing to synchronize various types of time-related information in multiple user terminals 10, for example.

Comparative Example
Next, a virtual space image generated by executing a program according to a comparative example will be described with reference to Fig. 4. Fig. 4 shows an example of a virtual space image displayed on the display 132 of the user terminal 10 by executing a program according to the comparative example.

It is assumed that the control unit 190 in the user terminal 10 generates a virtual space image by executing a program according to the comparative example. At this time, the control unit 190 makes the user object 802 opaque regardless of whether or not the user performs a movement operation. In other words, the control unit 190 makes the user object 802 opaque in the virtual space image not only when the user object 802 is in a moving state, but also when the user object 802 is in a stationary state.

Here, it is assumed that a screen object 807, which is an example of a virtual object, is placed in the virtual space. When the user object 802 enters a trigger area set near the screen object 807, the control unit 190 starts playing a video on the screen object 807. Then, since the user object 802 is stopped within the trigger area, the playback of the video on the screen object 807 continues.

The video may be played back in a streaming format, in which video information is acquired from the server 20 each time, or in a download format, in which video information is downloaded in advance to the storage unit 150. It is preferable that the video be played back with audio output.

In this way, when a video is played on the screen object 807, if the user object 802 is opaque as described above, a part of the screen object 807 may be hidden by the user object 802, causing the user to be unable to see part of the video. Therefore, the program disclosed herein solves this problem by performing the following operations.

(Example of program operation)
(a) Operation flow Next, an operation example of the program according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to Fig. 5 to Fig. 7. Each process described below is realized by the control unit 190 in the user terminal 10 executing the program 151, and the control unit 290 in the server 20 executing the program 251.

The order of the processes constituting each flowchart described in this specification may be random and may be executed in parallel as long as no contradictions or inconsistencies occur in the process content. Also, some of the processes constituting each flowchart described in this specification may be omitted.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing an example of a process related to providing a virtual space according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. First, in step S110, the control unit 190 generates a virtual space by referring to the virtual space information 152. Similarly, the control unit 190 generates virtual objects including a virtual camera and a user object. In generating the virtual space and virtual objects, the control unit 190 may receive various information such as the virtual space information 252 from the server 20 as necessary.

In step S120, the control unit 190 places a virtual object in the virtual space by referring to the placement information included in the virtual space information 152. At this time, the control unit 190 places a virtual camera at a predetermined distance from the user object.

In step S130, the control unit 190 generates a virtual space image. At this time, the control unit 190 makes the user object transparent. Then, the control unit 190 displays the generated virtual space image on the display 132.

The virtual space image is an image based on a virtual camera, and is an image captured within the virtual space by the virtual camera. The line of sight direction of the virtual camera can be changed based on an input operation performed by the user to change the orientation of the virtual camera. For example, the virtual camera moves to a position according to the input operation by the user while maintaining a distance from the user object.

If the control unit 190 does not detect a movement operation of the user object ("NO" in step S140), the control unit 190 continues to display the user object transparently. Then, the control unit 190 ends the series of processes in response to receiving an input operation to end the program 151, etc.

On the other hand, if the control unit 190 detects a movement operation of the user object ("YES" in step S140), in step S150, the control unit 190 starts a fade-in process that gradually makes the user object opaque. When the control unit 190 detects a movement operation by the user, it transmits information to the server 20 as necessary to identify the position of the user object after the movement.

In step S160, the control unit 190 causes the user object to perform preparatory actions associated with the movement.

In step S170, the control unit 190 performs processing to move the user object. The control unit 190 also performs processing to move the virtual camera at the same movement speed as the user object so as to be linked with the movement of the user object. As a result, the user object and the virtual camera move while maintaining their relative positional relationship.

If the control unit 190 does not detect the end of the user object movement operation ("NO" in step S180), it returns to step S170 and continues the process of moving the user object and the virtual camera.

On the other hand, if the control unit 190 detects the end of the user object movement operation ("YES" in step S180), it performs processing to stop the movement of the user object and the virtual camera in step S190.

In step S200, the control unit 190 starts a fade-out process that gradually makes the user object transparent.

In step S210, the control unit 190 causes the user object to execute an afterglow action associated with the stop. Then, the control unit 190 ends the series of processes in response to receiving an input operation to end the program 151, etc.

(b) Description of Virtual Space and Virtual Space Image Hereinafter, the virtual space and the virtual space image generated in the series of processes shown in Fig. 5 will be described with reference to Fig. 6 and Fig. 7. Fig. 6 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a virtual space 501 according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. In Fig. 6, a user object 502, a virtual camera 503, a pillar object 504, and another user object 506 are arranged in the virtual space 501.

The user object 502 is an object that can be operated by the user, for example, the user's avatar. The other user object 506 is an object that can be operated by another user, for example, the other user's avatar. The virtual camera 503 is a virtual object that captures an image of the virtual space 501. The pillar object 504 is a virtual object that is fixedly positioned in the virtual space 501.

(b-1) Virtual space image when transitioning from a stopped state to a moving state Fig. 7 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a display screen according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. Specifically, Fig. 7(a) shows a display screen when the user object 502 is in a stopped state. Fig. 7(b) shows a display screen when the user object 502 is performing an associated action. Fig. 7(c) shows a display screen when the user object 502 is in a moving state.

Figure 7 (a) shows a virtual space image displayed in a state before the user object 502 is moved (step S130 shown in Figure 5). In this virtual space image, the user object 502, which is in a stationary state, is transparent and not displayed. Note that if the user object 502 has any possessions, those possessions are not displayed either.

The other user object 506 is displayed on the display 132 of the user who is operating the user object 502, regardless of whether it is moving or not. For example, in FIG. 7A, the other user object 506 is stationary and not moving, but is displayed on the display 132.

Note that on the display of the other user who is manipulating the other user object 506, the other user object 506 is transparent and is not displayed. On the other hand, the user object 502 is opaque and is displayed on the display of the other user.

Also, assume that the other user performs an operation to move or perform another action on the other user's object 506. In this case, information for identifying the position of the other user's object 506 after the movement or other action is transmitted to the user terminal 10 of the user of the user object 502 via the server 20. The control unit 190 controls the position and action of the other user's object 506 in the virtual space 501 based on that information.

In addition, in FIG. 7A, the operator 601 is indicated by a dashed line. The operator 601 is a virtual controller displayed to receive input of a movement operation for moving the user object 502. For example, the user can drag the circular portion in the center of the operator 601 to move the user object 502 in the direction of the drag.

The operator 601 is an example, and other shapes and input modes may be adopted. From the viewpoint of improving the visibility of the virtual space 501, it is preferable that the operator 601 is completely transparent or is visible but highly transparent until it receives a movement operation from the user.

FIG. 7B shows a virtual space image in a state in which a movement operation of the user object 502 has been started, and the fade-in process (step S150 shown in FIG. 5) and preparatory operation (step S160 shown in FIG. 5) of the user object 502 are being performed. In the virtual space image, the user object 502 is displayed semi-transparently. In FIG. 7B, the user object 502 is shown with a dashed line to indicate that the user object 502 is displayed semi-transparently. For example, if the circular portion is dragged to an area located to the right (in the direction of arrow A) of the line segment l that divides the operator 601 into two halves, in a first period after the start of the drag operation, the user object 502 performs a preparatory operation for movement to the right.

Specifically, the user object 502 turns its body to the right and tilts its upper body. The user object 502 may also perform preparatory movements such as bending its knees and arms.

In addition, in FIG. 7B, the circular portion of the control 601 is located on the right side to indicate that a rightward movement operation is being performed. In addition, in response to the movement operation being performed, the control 601 is made less transparent than in FIG. 7A.

Fig. 7C shows a virtual space image after the fade-in process and preparation operation of the user object 502 are completed and in a state in which the movement operation of the user object 502 is continuing (step S170 shown in Fig. 5). In the virtual space image, the user object 502 is displayed opaquely. In Fig. 7C, the user object 502 is shown with a solid line to indicate that the user object 502 is displayed opaquely. In Fig. 7C, a movement operation to the right has been performed, so the user object 502 is moving to the right.

In FIG. 7(c), similar to FIG. 7(b), the circular portion of the control 601 is located on the right side to indicate that a rightward movement operation is being performed. In FIG. 7(c), similar to FIG. 7(b), the control 601 is less transparent than in FIG. 7(a) in response to a movement operation being performed. During a movement operation, the control 601 may be opaque from the viewpoint of facilitating the user's movement operation, or may be translucent or transparent from the viewpoint of increasing the visibility of the virtual space 501.

During the transition period from a stopped state to a moving state of the user object 502, the virtual space image shown in FIG. 7(c) is displayed via the virtual space image shown in FIG. 7(a) through the virtual space image shown in FIG. 7(b). Although FIG. 7 shows only the display screen shown in FIG. 7(b) when the user object 502 is performing the accompanying action, the control unit 190 generates the virtual space image so that the movement of the user object 502 as the accompanying action changes continuously or stepwise.

During this transition period, the transparency of the user object 502 is lowered continuously or stepwise by the fade-in process of the user object 502. In other words, the fade-in process of the user object 502 and the preparatory operation for the movement of the user object 502 are executed in parallel.

The length of the first period during which the user object 502 performs the preparatory action may be the same as the transition period, or may be shorter than the transition period. For example, if the first period is shorter than the transition period, the preparatory action and movement of the user object 502 begins with the start of the fade-in process, and the preparatory action is completed while the fade-in process is continuing. Also, for example, if the first period is longer than the transition period, the preparatory action and movement of the user object 502 begins with the start of the fade-in process, and the preparatory action continues even after the fade-in process is completed.

(b-2) Virtual space image when transitioning from a moving state to a stopped state During the transition period from a moving state to a stopped state of the user object 502, the virtual space image shown in Figure 7(c) is displayed, via the virtual space image shown in Figure 7(b), and then the virtual space image shown in Figure 7(a).

As shown in FIG. 7B, the user object 502 performs a lingering motion until it stops during a second period after the movement operation is completed, that is, after the user has completed the drag operation of the circular portion. For example, the user object 502 raises its tilted upper body and stomps its feet.

In addition, during this transition period, the transparency of the user object 502 is increased continuously or stepwise by the fade-out process of the user object 502. In other words, the fade-out process of the user object 502 and the afterglow operation for stopping the user object 502 are executed in parallel.

The length of the second period during which the user object 502 performs the lingering action may be the same as the transition period, or may be shorter than the transition period. For example, if the second period is shorter than the transition period, the lingering action of the user object 502 starts when the fade-out process starts, and the lingering action is completed while the fade-out process continues.

(b-3) Execution of Gesture of User Object in Stopped State When the user performs an operation such as pressing an icon included in the display screen, the user object 502 may execute a gesture according to the content of the operation. The gesture includes a clapping action, a waving action, and the like.

When the control unit 190 executes a gesture while the user object 502 is in a stopped state, i.e., in a state where the user object 502 is not displayed, the control unit 190 displays the user object 502. Then, when the gesture of the user object 502 ends, the control unit 190 makes the user object 502 invisible again.

This configuration increases the variety of actions that the user object 502 can perform, and further allows the user operating the user object 502 to check the actions that the user object 502 is performing while stopped.

(b-4) Control of Operation According to Movement Speed The movement speed of the user object 502 may change according to the length by which the circular part of the operator 601 is dragged. Specifically, assuming that the center position of the circular part of the operator 601 when no movement operation is performed is the initial position, the user object 502 moves by walking when the distance between the center position of the dragged circular part and the initial position is greater than zero and less than a predetermined value. Also, the user object 502 moves by running when the distance between the center position of the dragged circular part and the initial position is equal to or greater than a predetermined value. Hereinafter, the state in which the user object 502 is walking is referred to as a walking state, and the state in which the user object 502 is running is referred to as a running state.

When the user object 502 transitions from a walking state to a running state, the control unit 190 may execute an associated action such as increasing the inclination of the upper body of the user object 502. Also, when the user object 502 transitions from a running state to a walking state, the control unit 190 may execute an associated action such as decreasing the inclination of the upper body of the user object 502.

In such a case, as described below, if the orientation of the user object 502 and the line of sight direction of the virtual camera 503 are aligned, the greater the moving speed of the user object 502, the greater the inclination of the upper body of the user object 502, and the further away the head of the user object 502 is from the virtual camera 503. For this reason, a user viewing an image captured by the virtual camera 503 feels that the greater the moving speed of the user object 502, the farther the distance to the user object 502 is.

On the other hand, the slower the moving speed of the user object 502, the less the inclination of the upper body of the user object 502 becomes, and the closer the head of the user object 502 becomes to the virtual camera 503. Therefore, a user viewing an image captured by the virtual camera 503 feels that the slower the moving speed of the user object 502 is, the closer the distance to the user object 502 becomes.

In this embodiment, a configuration is adopted in which the inclination of the upper body of the user object 502 increases as the moving speed of the user object 502 increases, but the present invention is not limited to such a configuration. For example, a configuration may be adopted in which the inclination of the upper body of the user object 502 increases for a predetermined time from the timing when the user object 502 starts running, and the inclination of the upper body gradually decreases after the predetermined time has elapsed. Even in such a case, it is desirable that the inclination of the upper body in the running state after the above-mentioned predetermined time has elapsed is greater than the inclination of the upper body in the walking state.

(Variation 1)
Fig. 8 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a display screen according to the first modification of the first embodiment of the present disclosure. Specifically, Fig. 8(a) shows a display screen when the user object 502 is in a moving state. Fig. 8(b) shows a display screen for explaining the orientation of the user object 502 when the user object 502 stops moving.

When generating a virtual space image, the image generating unit 196 may control the user object 502 so that the orientation of the user object 502 matches the line of sight direction of the virtual camera 503 when the user object 502 transitions from a moving state to a stopped state.

Specifically, assume that the user object 502 is moving to the right as shown in FIG. 8(a). When the movement operation ends in this moving state, the image generating unit 196 changes the orientation of the user object 502 so that the virtual camera 503 is positioned behind the user object 502 as shown in FIG. 8(b).

The image generating unit 196 changes the orientation of the user object 502 so that the virtual camera 503 is located behind the user object 502 not only when the movement operation of the user object 502 to the right is completed, but also when the movement operation is completed in another direction, such as the direction in which the virtual camera 503 is located.

Then, the image generating unit 196 aligns the orientation of the user object 502 with the line of sight direction of the virtual camera 503, and then performs, for example, the fade-out process described above to make the user object 502 transparent. Note that the image generating unit 196 may change the orientation of the user object 502 and perform the fade-out process of the user object 502 in parallel.

In addition, when the image generating unit 196 executes the afterglow action shown in step S210 in FIG. 5 during the transition period from the moving state to the stopped state of the user object 502, for example, the image generating unit 196 performs the process of changing the orientation of the user object 502 and the process of executing the afterglow action in parallel.

As described above, when the user object 502 transitions from a moving state to a stopped state, the orientation of the user object 502 is aligned with the line of sight of the virtual camera 503, thereby preventing the user object 502 from feeling unnatural, such as communicating with other user objects that are not supposed to be visible.

However, the user who operates the user object 502 cannot confirm the facial expression of the user object 502. For this reason, a configuration may be adopted in which the orientation of the user object 502 does not match the line of sight of the virtual camera 503 when the user object 502 transitions from a moving state to a stopped state.

In addition, for example, when the user object 502 transitions from a moving state to a stopped state, the orientation of the user object 502 may be aligned with the line of sight of the virtual camera 503, and an image of the user object 502 viewed from the front, which includes a partial or full image of the face of the user object 502, may be displayed on the display screen.

(Variation 2)
The image generation unit 196 may change the distance between the virtual camera 503 and the user object 502 before and after the start of the movement operation and before and after the end of the movement operation. For example, the image generation unit 196 controls the user object 502 so as to move the user object 502 away from the virtual camera 503 when the user object 502 starts to move as shown in step S170 of FIG.

Specifically, the distance between the user object 502 and the virtual camera 503 when the user object 502 stops is set to a first distance. When the movement operation of the user object 502 starts, the image generation unit 196 moves the user object 502 so that the distance between the user object 502 and the virtual camera 503 becomes a second distance that is longer than the first distance. Then, the image generation unit 196 moves the user object 502 and the virtual camera 503 at the same movement speed so that the distance is maintained as the second distance.

In addition, for example, when the movement of the user object 502 shown in step S190 of FIG. 5 is stopped, the image generation unit 196 controls the user object 502 so as to bring the user object 502 closer to the virtual camera 503. Specifically, when the movement operation of the user object 502 is completed, the image generation unit 196 moves the user object 502 so that the distance between the user object 502 and the virtual camera 503 is changed from the second distance to the first distance.

With this configuration, when the user object 502 transitions from a moving state to a stopped state, the user is more likely to feel as if the user object 502 has been absorbed into the user, because the user object 502 approaches the user and then disappears from the display screen. Also, when the user object 502 transitions from a stopped state to a moving state, the user is more likely to feel as if the user object 502 is coming out of the user, because the user object 502 moves away from the user.

When changing the distance between the virtual camera 503 and the user object 502, the image generation unit 196 may move the virtual camera 503 instead of moving the user object 502.

In addition, instead of or in addition to changing the distance between the virtual camera 503 and the user object 502 before and after the start and end of the movement operation, a configuration may be adopted in which the size of the user object 502 is changed.

For example, when the user object 502 transitions from a moving state to a stopped state, the image generating unit 196 may perform a fade-out process on the user object 502 while gradually increasing the size of the user object 502 from the size of the user object 502 in the moving state (hereinafter also simply referred to as the "size when moving"). Also, when the user object 502 transitions from a stopped state to a moving state, the image generating unit 196 may perform a fade-in process on the user object 502 while gradually decreasing the size of the user object 502 from a state larger than the size when moving to the size when moving.

The contents of the first embodiment of the present disclosure are as follows:

(Item 1-1)
A program executed by a computer having a processor and a memory,
The program causes the processor to:
A step of generating a virtual space;
placing a virtual camera and a user object in the virtual space;
generating a virtual space image based on the virtual camera, the virtual space image being an image captured by the virtual camera of the virtual space;
moving the user object in the virtual space based on a movement operation for moving the user object;
In the step of generating a virtual space image,
If the move operation is not performed, the user object is made transparent;
making the user object opaque if the move operation is performed;
program.
As a result, when the user object is stopped, the user object is not displayed, which prevents other virtual objects that the user is trying to see, such as a screen object, from being hidden by the user object. Also, when the user object moves, the user object is displayed, which prevents motion sickness caused by the movement of the user object and allows the user to easily grasp the direction of movement of the user object in the virtual space. Therefore, it is possible to suppress a decrease in visibility while maintaining the operability of movement in the virtual space.

(Item 1-2)
In the step of generating a virtual space image,
When changing the user object from opaque to transparent, the transparency of the user object is gradually increased;
When changing the user object from transparent to opaque, gradually decreasing the transparency of the user object;
The program according to item 1-1.
This prevents the user from feeling uncomfortable when the user object is switched between visible and invisible. Also, when the user object stops moving, it gradually becomes transparent, giving the user the sensation that the user object has been taken into the user, whereas when the user object starts moving, it gradually becomes opaque, giving the user the sensation that the user object is coming out from within the user, thereby enhancing the sense of immersion in the virtual space.

(Item 1-3)
The program further causes the processor to
executing a step of making the user object perform an accompanying action that is an action accompanying the movement or stop of the user object, during at least one of a first period after the start of the moving operation and a second period after the end of the moving operation;
The accompanying action includes at least one of a preparatory action until the user object transitions from a stopped state to a moving state, and an aftertaste action until the user object transitions from a moving state to a stopped state.
The program according to item 1-1 or 1-2.
This allows the user object to perform more natural actions.

(Item 1-4)
The accompanying action includes changing the posture of the user object.
The program according to any one of items 1 to 3.
In this way, by having the user's object execute an accompanying action that is a movement that has a large change and is easy to understand, the difference in action between the stationary state and the moving state can be more effectively compensated for.

(Item 1-5)
maintaining a constant distance between the virtual camera and the user object before and after the start of the movement operation and before and after the end of the movement operation;
The program according to any one of items 1-1 to 1-4.
This will further prevent motion sickness.

(Item 1-6)
When the user object transitions from a stationary state to a moving state, the user object is controlled to move away from the virtual camera;
When the user object transitions from a moving state to a stopped state, the user object is controlled so as to approach the virtual camera.
The program according to any one of items 1-1 to 1-4.
As a result, when the user object transitions from a moving state to a stationary state, the user can easily get the sense that the user object has been taken into the user, since the user object approaches the user and then disappears from the display screen. Also, when the user object transitions from a stationary state to a moving state, the user can easily get the sense that the user object is coming out of the user, since the user object is moving away from the user.

(Item 1-7)
When the user object transitions from a moving state to a stopped state, the user object is controlled so as to align a direction of the user object with a line of sight direction of the virtual camera.
The program according to any one of items 1-1 to 1-6.
This prevents a misalignment between the area captured by the virtual camera, i.e., the area displayed to the user, and the area the user object can see, so that the user can feel the same as the user object. This also prevents the user object from feeling unnatural when communicating with other user objects that should not be visible to the user object. Furthermore, by checking the direction in which the user object is facing, other users can understand the direction in which the user of the user object can see the user.

(Item 1-8)
1. A method implemented by a computer having a processor and a memory, comprising:
The method further comprises:
A step of generating a virtual space;
placing a virtual camera and a user object in the virtual space;
generating a virtual space image based on the virtual camera, the virtual space image being an image captured by the virtual camera of the virtual space;
moving the user object in the virtual space based on a movement operation for moving the user object;
In the step of generating a virtual space image,
If the move operation is not performed, the user object is made transparent;
making the user object opaque if the move operation is performed;
Method.
As a result, when the user object is stopped, the user object is not displayed, which prevents other virtual objects that the user is trying to see, such as a screen object, from being hidden by the user object. Also, when the user object moves, the user object is displayed, which prevents motion sickness caused by the movement of the user object and allows the user to easily grasp the direction of movement of the user object in the virtual space. Therefore, it is possible to suppress a decrease in visibility while maintaining the operability of movement in the virtual space.

(Item 1-9)
An information processing device including a processor and a memory,
The processor,
Generate a virtual space,
Placing a virtual camera and a user object in the virtual space;
generating a virtual space image based on the virtual camera, the virtual space image being an image captured by the virtual camera of the virtual space;
a user object is moved within the virtual space based on a movement operation for moving the user object;
In generating the virtual space image,
If the move operation is not performed, the user object is made transparent;
making the user object opaque if the move operation is performed;
Information processing device.
As a result, when the user object is stopped, the user object is not displayed, which prevents other virtual objects that the user is trying to see, such as a screen object, from being hidden by the user object. Also, when the user object moves, the user object is displayed, which prevents motion sickness caused by the movement of the user object and allows the user to easily grasp the direction of movement of the user object in the virtual space. Therefore, it is possible to suppress a decrease in visibility while maintaining the operability of movement in the virtual space.

[Second embodiment]
In the first embodiment described above, the user object is switched between being transparent and being opaque depending on whether or not there is a movement operation of the user object 502. In contrast, in the second embodiment, a case will be described in which the virtual space image is switched between a first-person perspective image and a third-person perspective image depending on whether or not there is a movement operation of the user object 502.

(Explanation of the issue)
9 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a display screen according to a comparative example of the second embodiment of the present disclosure. Here, the user terminal according to the comparative example is configured to switch the virtual space image between a first-person perspective image and a third-person perspective image depending on whether or not a movement operation of a user object 502 is performed.

For example, suppose that the user object 502 moves in front of the signboard object 1302. In this case, in the user terminal according to the comparative example, as shown in FIG. 9(a), a third-person perspective image including at least a part of the user object 502 is displayed on the display 132 as a virtual space image. At this time, the virtual camera 503 in the virtual space 501 is located, for example, at a location a predetermined distance behind the viewpoint position of the user object 502.

In addition, assume that the user has finished moving the user object 502 when the display screen shown in FIG. 9(a) is displayed on the display 132. In this case, in the user terminal according to the comparative example, an image of the first-person perspective of the user object 502 is displayed on the display 132 as a virtual space image, as shown in FIG. 9(b). The position of the virtual camera 503 in the virtual space 501 at this time is the line of sight position of the user object 502.

In this way, when the virtual space image is switched from a third-person perspective image to a first-person perspective image, the virtual camera 503 in the virtual space 501 moves in the line of sight of the virtual camera 503. As a result, the entire virtual space image is enlarged, and objects other than the user object 502, such as the signboard object 1302, are clearly shown. However, if the other object is someone else's work, it is easy to make a copy of the image in which the other person's work is clearly shown.

In response to this, the control unit 190 in the user terminal 10 according to the second embodiment solves the above problem by using the configuration described below.

(Configuration of user terminal)
Fig. 10 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a display screen according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 10(a) shows a virtual space image generated when the user object 502 moves in front of the signboard object 1302, similar to Fig. 9(a). Fig. 10(b) shows a virtual space image generated when the user object 502 stops in front of the signboard object 1302.

Referring to FIG. 10, the control unit 190 according to the second embodiment switches the virtual space image between a first-person perspective image and a third-person perspective image when a predetermined condition is satisfied.

As an example, in the same manner as in the comparative example described above, when the user object 502 is being moved, the image generating unit 196 in the control unit 190 generates a third-person perspective image as a virtual space image, as shown in FIG. 10(a). Also, when the user object 502 is not being moved, the image generating unit 196 generates a first-person perspective image as a virtual space image, as shown in FIG. 10(b).

When generating a first-person perspective image, the image generation unit 196 determines whether the image (hereinafter referred to as the "image to be generated") contains a specific object.

More specifically, for example, one or more specific objects are registered in advance in the virtual space information 152 shown in FIG. 2. Specifically, static objects are registered as specific objects.

Static objects include posters, banners, flags, signs, and objects used for display, which are represented by characters, patterns, letters, symbols, etc., or a combination of these. In other words, static objects are objects that do not basically function independently unless subjected to external stress, and are, for example, objects that are attached to buildings or utility poles, or placed on the road like signboards.

Note that specific objects also include static objects attached to dynamic objects. For example, specific objects include static objects attached to floating objects such as balloons, and static objects attached to robot- or car-type moving objects that are controlled to move periodically or along a predetermined route. Specific objects also include static objects possessed or equipped by so-called NPCs (non-player characters). The signboard object 1302 shown in FIG. 10 is registered in the virtual space information 152 as a specific object.

The user objects 502 may also include a player object operated by one player, and other player objects operated by other players different from the one player or by a computer. In this case, the other player objects may be registered as specific objects.

The image generation unit 196 performs image processing on the third-person perspective image immediately before switching to the first-person perspective image, and further refers to the virtual space information 152 to determine whether or not the third-person perspective image includes a specific object. Then, if the image generation unit 196 determines that the third-person perspective image includes a specific object, it determines that the image to be generated also includes the specific object.

In addition, when the image generation unit 196 is not generating a third-person perspective image, the image generation unit 196 may refer to the placement information included in the virtual space information 152 and the position information of the user object 502 to determine whether or not a specific object is included in the image to be generated.

In addition, when the image generating unit 196 determines that a specific object is included in the image to be generated, it performs a predetermined process on the specific object so that the specific object is displayed in a predetermined display mode in the image to be generated.

For example, the image generating unit 196 performs processing that reduces the visibility of a specific object. Specifically, the predetermined processing includes mosaic processing, blurring processing, processing to change image quality, processing to change the number of pixels, processing to change color, processing to change brightness, and processing to change saturation. When the image to be generated includes multiple specific objects, the image generating unit 196 performs the predetermined processing on each specific object.

The image generating unit 196 may perform the predetermined processing such as replacing at least a part of the specific object with another predetermined object, or superimposing and displaying at least a part of the specific object with another predetermined object. The other predetermined object is, for example, a stamp image or a mask image.

In FIG. 10B, as an example, a first-person perspective image in which a mosaic process has been applied to a signboard object 1302 is displayed on the display 132 as a virtual space image.

Let us also assume that a movement operation of the user object 502 is started in a situation where the first-person perspective image shown in FIG. 10(b) is being displayed. In this case, the image generating unit 196 returns the signboard object 1302 to the normal display mode as shown in FIG. 10(a) and generates a third-person perspective image.

(Example of program operation)
Next, a flow of operation of a program according to the second embodiment will be described. Fig. 11 is a flowchart showing an example of a flow of operation of a program according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in Fig. 11, first, the control unit 190 refers to the virtual space information 152 and generates a virtual space 501, a virtual camera 503, and a virtual object (step S510).

Next, the control unit 190 refers to the placement information included in the virtual space information 152 and places the virtual object and the virtual camera 503 in the virtual space 501 (step S520). The initial position of the virtual camera 503 is, for example, a position that is a predetermined distance away from the viewpoint position of the user object 502 to the rear of the user object 502.

Next, if a movement operation of the user object 502 is being performed ("YES" in step S530), the control unit 190 generates a virtual space image from a third-person perspective and displays the generated virtual space image on the display 132 (step S540).

On the other hand, if the user object 502 has not been moved ("NO" in step S530), the control unit 190 determines whether the image to be generated, which is an image from a first-person perspective, includes a specific object (step S550).

If the control unit 190 determines that the image to be generated includes a specific object ("YES" in step S550), it generates a first-person perspective image in which a specific process has been applied to the specific object as a virtual space image. The control unit 190 then displays the generated virtual space image on the display 132 (step S560).

On the other hand, if the control unit 190 determines that the image to be generated does not include a specific object ("NO" in step S550), it generates a normal image from a first-person perspective without performing any specified processing as a virtual space image. The control unit 190 then displays the generated virtual space image on the display 132 (step S570).

The control unit 190 is not limited to a configuration in which a predetermined process is performed when generating a first-person perspective image, but may instead generate a first-person perspective image that has not been subjected to the predetermined process, and then perform the predetermined process on a specific object included in the image.

The contents relating to the second embodiment of the present disclosure are listed as follows.
(Item 2-1)
A program executed by a computer,
The program causes the computer to
A means for generating a virtual space;
means for placing a virtual camera, a user object, and a specific object in the virtual space;
a means for generating a virtual space image, which is an image of the virtual space, based on the virtual camera;
As a means for generating the virtual space image,
when a predetermined condition is satisfied, switching the virtual space image between a first-person perspective image of the user object and a third-person perspective image including at least a portion of the user object;
When generating the first-person viewpoint image as the virtual space image, if the specific object is included in the virtual space image, the specific object is displayed in a predetermined display mode.
program.
With this configuration, even if a virtual space image contains a specific object that is a work of another person, the virtual space image can be generated in a display mode that avoids the work being clearly reflected. This makes it possible to prevent the work of another person from being clearly reflected in the virtual space image.

(Item 2-2)
The program according to item 2-1, wherein the specific object is a static object.
With this configuration, it is possible to prevent static objects that are likely to be the copyrighted work of others from appearing clearly in the virtual space image.

(Item 2-3)
the user objects include a player object operated by one player, and another player object operated by another player different from the one player or by the computer,
The program according to item 2-1 or 2-2, wherein the specific object is the other player object.
With this configuration, it is possible to prevent other player objects, which are likely to be the copyrighted works of others, from being clearly reflected in the virtual space image.

The program according to any one of items 2-1 to 2-3, wherein the visibility of the specific object is reduced as the display in the predetermined display mode.
With this configuration, even if a specific object that is the work of another person is included in the virtual space image, the work can be prevented from being clearly reflected in the virtual space image without performing complex processing.

An information processing system including one or more information processing devices,
A process of generating a virtual space;
A process of placing a virtual camera, a user object, and a specific object in the virtual space;
A process of generating a virtual space image, which is an image of the virtual space, based on the virtual camera;
In the process of generating the virtual space image,
when a predetermined condition is satisfied, switching the virtual space image between a first-person perspective image of the user object and a third-person perspective image including at least a portion of the user object;
When generating the first-person viewpoint image as the virtual space image, if the specific object is included in the virtual space image, the specific object is displayed in a predetermined display mode.
Information processing system.
With this configuration, even if a virtual space image contains a specific object that is a work of another person, the virtual space image can be generated in a display mode that avoids the work being clearly reflected. This makes it possible to prevent the work of another person from being clearly reflected in the virtual space image.

[Third embodiment]
In the second embodiment described above, when a first-person viewpoint image is generated as a virtual space image, a specific object included in the virtual space image is displayed in a predetermined display mode. In contrast, in the third embodiment, a specific object is displayed in a predetermined display mode according to the display size of the specific object in the virtual space image.

Figure 12 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a display screen according to the third embodiment of the present disclosure. (a) of Figure 12, like (a) of Figure 10, shows a virtual space image generated when the user object 502 moves in front of the signboard object 1302. (b) of Figure 12 shows a virtual space image generated when the user object 502 moves even closer to the signboard object 1302.

Referring to Figures 2 and 12, the image generating unit 196 according to the third embodiment, like the image generating unit 196 according to the second embodiment, when generating a virtual space image, determines whether or not a specific object is included in the image to be generated, which is the virtual space image.

If the image generating unit 196 determines that the image to be generated includes a specific object, it determines whether the display size of the specific object in the image to be generated is larger than a predetermined size. An example of determining whether the display size is larger than the predetermined size is described in detail below.

(a) Example 1 of Determining Whether the Display Size is Larger than a Given Size
For example, one or more specific objects are registered in the virtual space information 152 shown in Fig. 2, similar to the second embodiment. As the specific object, a static object is registered, similar to the second embodiment. It is assumed that a signboard object 1302 shown in Fig. 12 is registered as a specific object in the virtual space information 152. Note that, similar to the second embodiment, another player object may be registered as a specific object.

Furthermore, size information of each specific object is registered in the virtual space information 152. Specifically, for each specific object, the height, width, etc. of the specific object in the virtual space 501 are registered as size information.

The image generation unit 196 refers to the size information, for example, to calculate the display magnification of a specific object in the image to be generated, and determines whether the calculated display magnification is equal to or greater than a second threshold. If the calculated display magnification is equal to or greater than the second threshold, the image generation unit 196 determines that the display size of the specific object is larger than a predetermined size.

In this case, the image generating unit 196 performs a predetermined process on the specific object so that the specific object is displayed in a predetermined display mode in the image to be generated. That is, the image generating unit 196 performs a process that reduces the visibility of the specific object, specifically, a mosaic process, a blurring process, a process that changes the image quality, a process that changes the number of pixels, a process that changes the color, a process that changes the brightness, or a process that changes the saturation.

In the virtual space image shown in FIG. 12(a), it is assumed that the display magnification of the signboard object 1302 is smaller than the second threshold. In this case, the image generating unit 196 generates a normal virtual space image without performing a predetermined process on the signboard object 1302.

On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 12B, assume that the user object 502 and the virtual camera 503 move closer to the signboard object 1302, causing the display magnification of the signboard object 1302 to become equal to or greater than the second threshold. In this case, the image generating unit 196 generates a virtual space image in which a predetermined process is performed on the signboard object 1302.

When generating a virtual space image including a specific object, the control unit 190 is not limited to a configuration in which a virtual space image that has been subjected to a specific process is generated, but may generate a virtual space image that has not been subjected to a specific process, and then perform a specific process on the specific object included in the virtual space image.

(b) Example 2 of Determining Whether the Display Size is Larger than a Given Size
The image generating unit 196 may determine whether the display size of a specific object is larger than a predetermined size by determining whether the occupancy rate of the specific object in the image to be generated is equal to or larger than a first threshold value. The first threshold value is, for example, 30%.

More specifically, when the image generating unit 196 determines that the virtual space image includes a specific object, it generates a virtual space image that has not been subjected to a specific process, for example. Then, the image generating unit 196 performs an image analysis process on the generated virtual space image, and calculates the occupancy rate of the specific object in the virtual space image.

If the image generating unit 196 determines that the calculated occupancy rate is equal to or greater than the first threshold, it determines that the display size of the specific object is larger than a predetermined size. In this case, the image generating unit 196 performs a predetermined process on the specific object in the virtual space image. As a result, a virtual space image such as that shown in FIG. 12(b) is displayed on the display 132.

The image generation unit 196 may be configured to perform both judgment example 1 and judgment example 2, or may be configured to perform only one of them.

In judgment example 1, the closer a specific object is to the user object 502, the more likely it is that the display magnification will be equal to or greater than the second threshold, and the more likely it is that the display size will be determined to be larger than the predetermined size. In contrast, in judgment example 2, the larger a specific object is in size in the virtual space 501, the more likely it is that its occupancy rate in the virtual space image will be equal to or greater than the first threshold, and the more likely it is that the display size will be determined to be larger than the predetermined size.

Note that, because the distance between the user object 502 and the specific object is short, the display magnification of the specific object may be equal to or greater than the second threshold value, and the occupancy rate of the specific object in the virtual space image may be equal to or greater than the first threshold value. In such a case, the display size of the specific object is determined to be larger than the predetermined size in judgment example 1 or judgment example 2.

(Example of program operation)
Next, a flow of operation of a program according to the third embodiment will be described. Fig. 13 is a flowchart showing an example of a flow of operation of a program according to the third embodiment of the present disclosure. The operations of steps S610 and S620 shown in Fig. 13 are similar to the operations of steps S510 and S520 shown in Fig. 11, and therefore detailed description thereof will not be repeated here.

Next, the control unit 190 determines whether the image to be generated, which is a virtual space image, includes a specific object (step S630).

If the control unit 190 determines that the image to be generated includes a specific object ("YES" in step S630), it determines whether the display size of the specific object in the image to be generated is larger than a predetermined size (step S640).

If the control unit 190 determines that the display size of the specific object in the image to be generated is larger than the predetermined size ("YES" in step S640), it generates a virtual space image in which the specific object has been subjected to a predetermined process. The control unit 190 then displays the generated virtual space image on the display 132 (step S650).

On the other hand, if the control unit 190 determines that the image to be generated does not include a specific object ("NO" in step S630), it generates a normal virtual space image without performing the specified processing. Then, the control unit 190 displays the generated virtual space image on the display 132 (step S660).

The control unit 190 also determines that the image to be generated includes a specific object, and that the display size of the specific object in the image to be generated is equal to or smaller than a predetermined size ("NO" in step S640). In this case, the control unit 190 similarly generates a normal virtual space image that does not undergo the predetermined processing, and displays the generated virtual space image on the display 132 (step S660).

The first to third embodiments of the present disclosure have been described in detail above, but as long as this does not impede the operation of the program, the control unit 290 may take over some of the processing that the control unit 190 performed in the description of each embodiment, or the control unit 190 may take over at least some of the processing that the control unit 290 performed.

For example, the program may be a so-called cloud-type system in which the control unit 290 generates the virtual space 501 and virtual objects, and generates virtual space images. Also, the program may be a so-called stand-alone type program without the server 20. Also, the program may be configured so that multiple user objects can exist in the same virtual space 501 by P2P communication between user terminals without the server 20.

In addition, two or more of the first to third embodiments of the present disclosure may be combined. For example, by combining the second and third embodiments, the control unit 190 may perform a predetermined process on a specific object when the specific object is included in a first-person perspective image and the display size of the specific object in the image is larger than a predetermined size.

The contents relating to the third embodiment of the present disclosure are listed as follows.
(Item 3-1)
A program executed by a computer,
The program causes the computer to
A means for generating a virtual space;
means for placing a virtual camera, a user object, and a specific object in the virtual space;
a means for generating a virtual space image, which is an image of the virtual space, based on the virtual camera;
As a means for generating the virtual space image,
When a display size of the specific object in the virtual space image is larger than a predetermined size, the specific object is displayed in a predetermined display mode.
program.
With this configuration, even if a specific object that is a work of another person appears larger than a predetermined size in the virtual space image, the virtual space image can be generated in a display mode that avoids the work from appearing clearly. This makes it possible to prevent the work of another person from appearing clearly in the virtual space image.

(Item 3-2)
As a means for generating the virtual space image,
When the occupancy rate of the specific object in the virtual space image is equal to or greater than a first threshold value, the display size of the specific object is larger than the predetermined size, and the specific object is displayed in the predetermined display manner.
With this configuration, even if, for example, a large work by another person is present in the virtual space, a virtual space image can be generated in a display manner that avoids the work being displayed clearly.

(Item 3-3)
As a means for generating the virtual space image,
When the display magnification of the specific object in the virtual space image is equal to or greater than a second threshold value, the display size of the specific object is larger than the predetermined size, and the specific object is displayed in the predetermined display mode.
With this configuration, for example, even if a user object approaches another person's work and the work appears larger than a predetermined size in the virtual space image, a virtual space image can be generated in a display manner that avoids the work being displayed clearly.

(Item 3-4)
The program according to any one of items 3-1 to 3-3, wherein the specific object is a static object.
With this configuration, it is possible to prevent static objects that are likely to be the copyrighted work of others from appearing clearly in the virtual space image.

(Item 3-5)
the user objects include a player object operated by one player, and another player object operated by another player different from the one player or by the computer,
The program according to any one of items 3-1 to 3-4, wherein the specific object is the other player object.
With this configuration, it is possible to prevent other player objects, which are likely to be the copyrighted works of others, from being clearly reflected in the virtual space image.

(Item 3-6)
The program according to any one of items 3-1 to 3-5, wherein the visibility of the specific object is reduced as the display in the predetermined display mode.
With this configuration, even if a specific object that is the work of another person is included in the virtual space image, the work can be prevented from being clearly reflected in the virtual space image without performing complex processing.

An information processing system including one or more information processing devices,
A process of generating a virtual space;
A process of placing a virtual camera, a user object, and a specific object in the virtual space;
A process of generating a virtual space image, which is an image of the virtual space, based on the virtual camera;
In the process of generating the virtual space image,
When a display size of the specific object in the virtual space image is larger than a predetermined size, the specific object is displayed in a predetermined display mode.
Information processing system.
With this configuration, even if a specific object that is a work of another person appears larger than a predetermined size in the virtual space image, the virtual space image can be generated in a display mode that avoids the work from appearing clearly. This makes it possible to prevent the work of another person from appearing clearly in the virtual space image.

1: System, 10: User terminal, 20: Server, 30: Network, 130: Touch screen, 150: Memory unit (of user terminal), 190: Control unit (of user terminal), 250: Memory unit (of server), 290: Control unit (of server), 501: Virtual space, 502: User object, 503: Virtual camera

Claims (6)

A program executed by a computer,
The program causes the computer to
A means for generating a virtual space;
means for placing a virtual camera, a user object, and a specific object in the virtual space;
a means for generating a virtual space image, which is an image of the virtual space, based on the virtual camera;
As a means for generating the virtual space image,
When a display size of the specific object in the virtual space image is larger than a predetermined size, the specific object is displayed in a predetermined display mode.
program. As a means for generating the virtual space image,
The program according to claim 1 , wherein when an occupancy rate of the specific object in the virtual space image is equal to or greater than a first threshold, the display size of the specific object is determined to be larger than the predetermined size, and the specific object is displayed in the predetermined display manner. As a means for generating the virtual space image,
The program according to claim 1 , wherein when a display magnification of the specific object in the virtual space image is equal to or greater than a second threshold value, the display size of the specific object is deemed to be larger than the predetermined size, and the specific object is displayed in the predetermined display manner. The program of claim 1, wherein the specific object is a static object. the user objects include a player object operated by one player, and another player object operated by another player different from the one player or by the computer,
The program according to claim 1 , wherein the specific object is the other player's object. An information processing system including one or more information processing devices,
A process of generating a virtual space;
A process of placing a virtual camera, a user object, and a specific object in the virtual space;
A process of generating a virtual space image, which is an image of the virtual space, based on the virtual camera;
In the process of generating the virtual space image,
When a display size of the specific object in the virtual space image is larger than a predetermined size, the specific object is displayed in a predetermined display mode.
Information processing system.

Images