JP2003245473A - Mobile agent information, platform information and information storage medium - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To realize an electronic pet autonomously moving between information terminal devices. <P>SOLUTION: A platform which is the performing environment of a mobile agent is functioned by a personal computer 2, portable telephone sets 3A to 3C and a PDA 4 which are the information terminal devices (nodes) capable of transmitting and receiving data by connecting them to a communication line. The mobile agent which is the electronic pet, information which defines the purpose of moving and destination information for returning to a moving source node (personal computer 2), and a growing a game is carried out on the platform at the respective nodes to carry out a growing game by the devices. When the purpose is attained by the node at a moving destination, the mobile agent moves to the next node or returns to the moving source node via the electronic mail M on the basis of the destination information. Consequently, the user can enjoy the electronic pet which moves between the nodes. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2003,JPO

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to mobile agent information or the like having a training game element in an information terminal device connectable to a predetermined communication line.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, an image of a given character (for example, a white cat, a pink bear, a girl, etc.) is taken into consideration as a virtual pet or a virtual resident (hereinafter referred to as an electronic pet), and is nurtured. There are so-called upbringing games for enjoying games.

In the rearing game, the player plays, for example, conversation, meal, grooming, shiritori, game, training, etc. on an electronic pet displayed by an information terminal device such as a home game device, a personal computer, a mobile phone, or a PDA. , Take care of various things. Each time care is taken, the breeding parameter of the electronic pet changes according to the contents of the care, and based on the breeding parameter, the movement of the electronic pet and the degree of conversation change. Therefore, it is possible to enjoy a simulated experience as if the electronic pet grows.

In some cases, the data of an electronic pet is moved to a portable information terminal device which can be connected to a home-use game machine by a communication line, and a player carries the device and keeps it close at all times, thereby increasing intimacy. There are also things to do.

These breeding games form a reliable genre in the game because they can breed electronic pets that cannot be raised in reality and are easier to care for than actual pets. As a recent trend, there is a demand for an electronic pet that has more variety of care and behaves more variously.

[0006]

However, in the conventional rearing game, the image displayed by executing the predetermined application program is seen by the pet, and the activity range is the execution of the program. It was limited to the device that does. Therefore, for example, when the dog heard that the owner (user) said that he would pick up something, he could not move from a predetermined place (information terminal device) to realize some action. However, no matter how much care is taken and the number of electronic pet movements is increased, there is a limit to the behavior as an electronic pet and there is a problem of rut.

The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and an object thereof is to realize an electronic pet that autonomously moves between information terminal devices.

[0008]

In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, the invention according to claim 1 autonomously moves between information terminal devices having a predetermined communication means via the communication means, and Mobile agent information for causing a staying information terminal device to execute a given process, including destination information (for example, user information 727 in FIG. 2) of a mobile source information terminal device and a given achievement condition. The achievement condition information (for example, the going-out action table 716 in FIG. 2) and the breeding information (for example, the breeding parameter 718-2 in FIG. 2) representing the breeding parameter of the character are included and the information terminal device in the stay is displayed. Then, a training means for displaying and executing the training game for the character based on the training parameters described in the training information and updating the training information (for example, agent execution in FIG. 2 220), and achievement determination means (for example, the agent execution unit 220 in FIG. 2) that determines whether or not the achievement condition is satisfied based on the data stored in the information terminal device during the stay. Information for operating the agent (eg, agent information 71 in FIG. 2)
including.

Mobile agent
Is one of the known technologies for a distributed system using a communication line, and autonomously moves an information terminal device (hereinafter referred to as a node) capable of transmitting and receiving data by wired / wireless communication, It is a program that is stored in the storage unit of the destination node (stays when viewed from the mobile agent side) and has the ability to cause the node to execute a given function. It is possible to move the program itself and execute processing in the destination node without communication with the source node.

The mobile agent information is information including the program code of the mobile agent itself and various data necessary for executing the program.

According to the invention of claim 1, the mobile
The agent includes breeding information that represents breeding parameters that store the degree of growth as an electronic pet and the degree of care, and causes the destination node to execute the breeding game. Then, the so-called breeding game is made to function by updating the breeding information as a result of the breeding game. The nurturing game referred to here is, for example, a single play of an electronic pet such as writing a picture, writing a diary, singing, filling in treasures, dancing, and playing electronic cards such as playing cards, shiritori, rock-paper-scissors, and given mini-games. These include playing with the user for fun, feeding and disciplining the electronic pet from the user, grooming, and taking care of words.

The mobile agent identifies destination information that is a main information terminal device used by a user (hereinafter referred to as a mobile source node), and destination information for returning from the destination node. Achievement condition information in which conditions to be achieved in the destination node are set.

The destination information is, for example, I of a communication line connection.
P address, e-mail address, device identification number,
It is information necessary for identifying and accessing a specific node such as a URL. The achievement information is, for example, “display designated text or image on a display device attached to the device”, “playback sound”, “search and duplicate file including designated character string”. , "Send an e-mail to a specified destination", "Stay for a given time", and other information that specifies various operations and states that can be executed by the destination device as achievement conditions. It is determined by comparison with various data that can be acquired in.

Therefore, the mobile agent can be the target of the breeding game as an electronic pet as in the conventional case, can move between nodes, and if the achievement condition is given in advance (if set). When the destination satisfies the achievement condition, the destination node can return to the source node based on the destination information.

For example, a mobile agent (electronic pet) not only stays in a game device owned by a user as a mobile source node, but also moves to a mobile phone to go out with the user and go out. The user can take care of the user and have a conversation with him. Then, after returning home, the user can move from the mobile phone to the personal computer, stay on the desktop screen where the user is working, take care of the user during the work, and have a conversation. It is also possible that the electronic pet suddenly gets out of the game device and waits for the user to leave in the mobile phone.

[0016] Further, the user's suggestion (achievement condition information)
Therefore, it is possible to walk between the nodes, fulfill the word (that is, clear the achievement conditions), and return to the master (moving source node) properly. The implication is that the electronic pet can be made to carry the specified file to a specific node, or can be moved between the nodes to collect files that satisfy the specified condition.

As described above, according to the first aspect of the present invention, an electronic pet that moves autonomously between information terminal devices is realized, and the action range of the electronic pet is expanded from a predetermined device, as if it were a genuine article. It becomes possible to make a behavior with moving like a pet, and it is possible to add variations to care and movements and increase the number of ways to enjoy the raising game. Also, depending on the setting of the achievement conditions, in addition to the effect as a mere training game, for example, a function of distributing information and a function of a communication tool for bringing new encounters in human relationships can be realized.

The communication line means a communication path through which data can be exchanged. That is, the communication line is meant to include a dedicated line (dedicated cable) for direct connection, a LAN such as Ethernet (R), a communication network such as a telephone communication network, a cable network, and the Internet, and a communication method. Means that it does not matter whether it is wired or wireless.

Further, as in the invention described in claim 2, a detecting means for detecting the current position of the own device (for example, the position information detecting section 60 and the position information acquiring section 26 in FIG. 2), and a predetermined communication means. Mobile terminal information, which is mobile agent information that causes the information terminal device that is staying to execute given processing while autonomously moving between the information terminal devices that have the Destination information, achievement condition information indicating a given achievement condition regarding the position, and raising information indicating a raising parameter of the character,
For the information terminal device during the stay, a training means for displaying and executing the training game for the character based on the training parameters described in the training information, and updating the training information, and a detection result by the detecting means. It is also possible to include information for causing the achievement determination means (for example, the agent execution unit 220 in FIG. 2) that determines whether or not the achievement condition is satisfied based on the information.

The current position of the own device is a geographical position condition in which a node exists, such as an address, latitude and longitude,
Altitude, building name, etc. The detection means for detecting the current position of the own device corresponds to, for example, a known GPS function, a position information search service using a mobile phone or PHS, and the like.

According to the invention of claim 2, the mobile
The agent acquires location information at the destination node,
By comparing with the position information set in the achievement condition, another node existing at a position different from the mobile source node can be moved to the destination.

Specifically, for example, if the achievement information is "reach Wakkanai City, Hokkaido", the electronic pet compares the current position information with the position information of Wakkanai City (eg latitude and longitude). Then, it can automatically move to the north and move to any node existing in Wakkanai City.
Alternatively, the node can be moved to a friend's house resident at a predetermined address.

In this way, by adding the position information to the achievement condition, it becomes possible to surely specify the moving direction of the mobile agent and the specific moving destination. For example, the electronic pet is allowed to travel or specified. It is possible to create behavior that is not possible with conventional electronic pets, such as saying that you want to send mail to the other party.

Further, as in the invention described in claim 3, in the mobile agent information according to claim 1 or 2, for the information terminal device during the stay, based on the training parameter described in the training information, Judgment means for judging whether or not movement is possible (for example, the agent execution unit 22 in FIG. 2).
0) may be included in the information (eg, agent information 71 in FIG. 2), and when the determination unit determines that the information can be moved, it may be possible to move to another information terminal device.

According to the third aspect of the invention, the same effect as that of the first or second aspect is obtained, and the movement of the mobile agent is judged by the judging means based on the training information. For example, an electronic pet cannot move between nodes immediately after being raised, but can move by itself as it grows. Therefore, as in the past, the proof of growth simply changes the operation display of the electronic pet on the screen,
Not only will the vocabulary of conversation increase, but the user will also be able to more clearly experience the degree of training and proof of training.

In addition to the above, the determination as to whether or not it is possible to move is made such that the destination can be selected from a plurality of destinations, the destination can be moved by designating an e-mail address, the plurality of destinations can be moved continuously, and the like. Of course, it is also possible to set a change in the moving ability.

Further, as in the invention described in claim 4, in the mobile agent information according to any one of claims 1 to 3, the destination condition information indicating the destination condition (for example, the outbound action table 716 in FIG. 2, Condition definition file 716-2)
In addition to the above, the mobile terminal communicates with another information terminal device via the communication means to the information terminal device that is staying, and determines whether or not the other information terminal device satisfies the destination condition. When the determination means (for example, the agent execution unit 220 in FIG. 2) and the movement determination means determine that the destination condition is satisfied, the movement means moves to the other information terminal device (for example, in FIG. 2). Agent execution unit 2
20), and may include information for operating.

The destination condition is, for example, the function of the node, the information of the place where the node is, the information of the owner, the state of the program being executed by the node, the information such as the node ID and the manufacturer. Therefore, it may be appropriately set.

According to the invention described in claim 4,
The same effect as any of the three, and mobile
Prior to the movement, the agent determines whether or not the destination node satisfies the destination condition by the movement determination means, and selects the destination that meets the condition. by this,
For example, when heading in a predetermined direction from the present, it is possible to move efficiently by selecting a node closer to that direction. Also, by confirming the function before moving, you move to a node that does not have a sending function,
It is possible to avoid failures due to node functions such as being unable to return to the mobile source node.

Also, for the user, the electronic pet (mobile agent) can behave in various variations. For example, it is possible to select a node having the same place of origin as the electronic pet from the information of the owner and move the electronic pet to serve as an opportunity to expand the circle of friends.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, in the mobile agent information according to any one of the first to fourth aspects, the communication means is a short-range wireless means for forming an ad hoc network (for example, Bluetooth in FIG. 2). (R) Chip 5
2. Bluetooth (R) control unit 252), which is characterized by autonomously moving between information terminal devices through the ad hoc network.

An ad hoc network is a network formed dynamically with a device / apparatus of a person's side, which changes one by one as a person moves with a portable information terminal device. That is.
Unlike conventional devices, devices and terminals that make up a network are not fixed, and no cable connection or wireless line connection is required by the work of a predetermined person. As a short-distance wireless means for forming an ad hoc network, for example, Bl
Technologies such as uetooth (R) ((R) means a registered trademark) can be cited.

According to the invention of claim 5, claims 1 to
In addition to producing the same effect as in any one of 4 above, it does not require the work for each person to connect to the network, and thus makes the user feel the feeling that the electronic pet, which is a mobile agent, goes out by itself. You can Also, by giving the user a sense of being connected by the “edge” that happened to be or was there at that moment, it is possible to make the user feel a sense of expectation and excitement for a new encounter.

Further, as in the invention described in claim 6, in the mobile agent information according to any one of claims 1 to 4, the communication means forms a near-field for forming an ad hoc network to realize the movement. Based on the destination information, when the achievement determining means determines that the achievement condition is satisfied for the information terminal device that is staying, the distance wireless means and the internet connecting means connectable to the Internet are provided. Characterized by including information (for example, the agent information 71 in FIG. 2 and the outing action table 716) for causing the transmitting means to transmit the notification information to the information terminal device of the mobile source via the net connection means. Is also good.

Since the mobile agent operates in another node apart from the direct operation of the user, the user cannot know whether the mobile agent is operating properly. According to the invention described in claim 6, however, the same effect as that of any one of claims 1 to 4 is obtained, and the mobile agent is provided with a given achievement condition in the node of the movement destination (the information terminal device during the stay). If the condition is satisfied, the mobile source node can be notified of that fact via the Internet, for example, by electronic mail. This allows the mobile agent to see some of the behavior at other nodes.

The notification information is not limited to the case where the final achievement condition is satisfied, but may be appropriately issued based on the achievement condition of each stage. For example, if you move to another node and bring back the file containing the given text, the final achievement condition is to bring back the file, but consider that the completion of movement in that process is also one achievement condition, If the movement between the nodes is completed without error, the notification information to that effect is transmitted. This allows the user to know what the mobile agent is doing and avoid waiting for the mobile agent's return, which cannot return due to some error.

Further, as in the invention described in claim 7, in the mobile agent information of claim 6, when it is determined by the achievement determining means that the achievement condition is satisfied,
Based on the destination information, information for moving to the information terminal device of the mobile source via the net connection means (for example, agent information 71 and bleeder information 718 in FIG. 2).
-1) may be included.

As described above, the ad hoc network is not fixed in configuration, and therefore, when the mobile agent achieves a given condition at the destination node and returns to the mobile source node. In addition, the network formed at the time of movement is not always maintained.

According to the invention described in claim 7, the same effect as in claim 6 is obtained, and the ad hoc network is not formed by, for example, attaching the mobile agent itself together with the e-mail. However, it is possible to return to the mobile source node.

Further, in the mobile agent according to claim 6 or 7, as in the invention described in claim 8, for the information terminal device during the stay, the specific information of the information terminal device during the stay is sent to the network. Information for operating the means for transmitting to a predetermined server via the connecting means (for example, FIG. 2).
Agent program 710, outing action chart 7
16, attachment file information 718-4) may be included.

The specific information is information for individual identification for enabling contact with the node and transmission / reception of data. For example, if the node is a mobile phone, it has a telephone number and an e-mail function. If it is an email address, etc.

According to the invention of claim 8, the same effect as that of claim 6 or 7 can be obtained, and the information for specifying the place (node) where the mobile agent is staying can be stored in the server. It becomes possible and a so-called lost child state can be avoided. Furthermore, together with the specific information,
If you attach and send a copy of yourself, you can back up the mobile agent to the server. Therefore, the situation where the destination node cannot form an ad hoc network with another node for some reason (eg, in the mountains, at the sea, out of order, lost,
This can be a guarantee when the mobile agent cannot return to the mobile source due to battery exhaustion, etc.).

Further, as in the invention described in claim 9, the mobile agent information according to any one of claims 1 to 8 is stored in the information terminal device during the stay for the information terminal device during the stay. Means for acquiring the given data (for example, the agent execution unit 220 in FIG. 2)
And a holding unit (for example, the agent execution unit 220 and the attached file information 718-4 in FIG. 2) that holds the data acquired by the acquiring unit during the movement, and when the acquiring unit acquires the data. In addition, information (for example, the agent program 710 of FIG. 2), the character for carrying the possessed image display means (for example, the agent execution unit 220 of FIG. 2) for displaying the image in which the character possesses the given item, and the character Information 714).

According to the invention described in claim 9, claims 1 to
The same effect as any one of 8
The agent can bring back the data stored in the destination node to the source node. At this time, an image with a given item is displayed to indicate that the electronic pet has some information.

For example, when the electronic pet is a dog type, it becomes clear to the user that he has the data by holding the honey as an item. Further, when the destination node receives some data as a souvenir, it is possible to add a furoshiki stuffed cloth on the back and add a staging effect to inform the user that something has been received. The image of the electronic pet carrying the item may be, for example, a single image, or the image of the character and the image of the item may be combined and displayed. It goes without saying that the type of item image may be selected or the display form may be changed according to the content of the data.

As described above, by causing the mobile agent, which is an electronic pet, to acquire the data and possess the item, it is possible to give the user a feeling as if the electronic pet is using it.

Further, as in the invention described in claim 10, the mobile agent information according to any one of claims 1 to 9 includes a plurality of training game information which can be executed according to a training parameter, and the training is performed. The means may include, within the plurality of training game information, information for executing training game information according to the training parameters described in the training information.

The upbringing game means, for example, drawing a picture, writing a diary, singing a song, filling up a treasure, dancing a dance, etc., as an electronic pet, and playing cards, shiritori, rock-paper-scissors, a given mini-game, etc. The electronic pet and the user enjoy playing together, and the user takes care of feeding and disciplining the electronic pet.

According to the invention of claim 10, claim 1
The same effect as in any one of 9 to 9 is provided, and there is a plurality of breeding game information, and the playable content changes according to the degree of breeding. Therefore, the enjoyment brought up by the user can be provided.

The invention described in claim 11 is the same as claim 1.
In the mobile agent information of any one of Nos. 10 to 10, it is determined with respect to the staying information terminal device, based on the destination information, whether the staying information terminal device is a mobile source information terminal device. By this means, a return end determination means (for example, the agent execution unit 220 and the position information detection unit 60 in FIG. 2) for determining whether or not the return has been made, and a case where the return end determination means determines that the return has been given, are given. It is characterized in that it includes the effecting means (for example, the agent executing unit 220 in FIG. 2) for effecting the effect and information for causing the functioning (for example, the agent information 71 and the user information 727 in FIG. 2).

According to the invention of claim 11, claim 1
The same effect as in any one of 10 to 10 is exhibited, and when the mobile agent that has moved to another node returns to the mobile source node, an effect of expressing that it has returned is provided.

The contents of the effect may be set appropriately. For example, an image of a character that sweats on his forehead and makes his breathing when he returns in a short time is displayed according to the elapsed time from his departure, and it is possible to produce the feeling as if he came back in a hurry. On the contrary, if you hang up for a long time and come back, display a character image with a slightly tired expression and muddy appearance,
It can produce the feeling of a long journey. In addition, the presentation may be text display, sound reproduction, animation display, video file display, or the like.

[0053] According to a twelfth aspect of the present invention, a generating means for generating the mobile agent information according to any one of the first to eleventh aspects by an arithmetic / control by a processor for an information terminal device having a predetermined communication means. (For example, in FIG.
2) of the launcher and a storage unit (for example, the platform unit 22 of FIG. 2) that stores the mobile agent information received via the communication unit and / or the mobile agent information cultivated by the cultivating unit. ) And the mobile device stored in the storage means.
Information for causing a control unit (for example, the execution control unit 226 in FIG. 2) for controlling execution suspension / resumption of the agent information to function (for example, the platform information 7 in FIG. 2).
Platform information including 2).

The platform is an automatic execution environment required for a mobile agent to execute a given function by a node while staying in order to satisfy the conditions set by the mobile agent for generation, movement and achievement conditions. If the mobile agent is regarded as application software, it corresponds to an OS or middleware. The platform information includes a program for causing the information terminal device to function as the platform and various data necessary for executing the program.

FIG. 31 is a conceptual diagram showing the relationship between the mobile agent and the platform, and shows the structure required for the operation of a typical mobile agent and the flow when the mobile agent moves.

FIG. 31A shows an example of the structure. The information terminal device that can accept and execute the mobile agent must have the mobile
The agent automatic execution environment (platform) is functioning. Then, it realizes the program code generation means of the agent, the interruption / restart of the execution of the agent, the code encoding / decoding, and the data transmission / reception when the agent moves.

FIG. 31B shows an example of the flow when the mobile agent moves. Mobile before moving
Execution of the agent is suspended by the platform, and its program code and information on the internal state and execution state are encoded. The encoded data is sent to the destination information terminal device via the communication line. In the destination information terminal device, the platform decodes the program code, the internal state and the execution state information from the sent data, and the mobile agent resumes the execution from the suspended state.

Therefore, by causing the information terminal device to execute the platform information according to claim 12, the user can
It is possible to enjoy raising an electronic pet by the mobile agent according to any one of claims 1 to 11.

According to the thirteenth aspect of the present invention, in the platform information of the twelfth aspect, a report on the mobile agent information is made based on the information contained in the mobile agent information stored in the storage means. Information for causing the information terminal device to function as a reporting unit that generates and displays information may be included.

The report information is, for example, the training situation based on the training information of the mobile agent, the degree of intimacy with the user, the contents of the achievement conditions currently given, the action history of the mobile agent, etc. You can set it.

According to the invention of claim 13, claim 1
In addition to the effect similar to 2, the user can know the state of the mobile agent and can help to think about future care policy and coping.

The invention according to claim 14 is the invention according to claims 1 to 11.
An information storage medium storing the mobile agent information described in any one of 1.

The information storage medium is a storage medium which can be read by the information terminal device itself or in a state where the information terminal device can communicate with the device via a predetermined reading device.
An IC memory, a CD-ROM, a DVD, an MD, etc.
According to the invention described in claim 14, by executing the mobile agent information stored in the information storage medium, it is possible to obtain the same effect as that of any one of claims 1 to 11.

The invention of claim 15 is the same as that of claim 1.
It is an information storage medium storing the platform information described in 2 or 13, and by executing the platform information similarly stored in the information storage medium, the same effect as that of claim 12 or 13 can be obtained.

[0065]

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION Next, referring to FIGS.
An embodiment to which the present invention is applied will be described.

[Description of Configuration] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a concept of a configuration and a usage form in the present embodiment. As shown in the figure, this embodiment is composed of a node (information terminal device) such as a personal computer 2, mobile phones 3A to 3C, and PDA4, which can be connected to a communication line 8, and a server 6. mobile·
The agent E can move between the nodes.

Personal computer 2, mobile phones 3A to 3C, PD
The A4 is connected to the communication line 8 by Internet connection technology, data communication technology, electronic mail technology, or the like, and can transmit / receive data to / from the server 6. Further, they are provided with hardware and software for forming the ad hoc networks Na to Nd with each other by short-distance wireless communication.

The ad hoc networks Na to Nd are networks that are temporarily constructed between nodes as needed. For example, when one node is carried and moves, the surroundings are accompanied by the movement of people. Although the device configuration changes, the network configuration is dynamically changed accordingly.

Specifically, it is realized by a technology such as Bluetooth (R). In the example of FIG. 1, the circles (Na to Nd) indicated by broken lines correspond to individual ad hoc networks. In Bluetooth (R), the ad hoc networks Na to Nd correspond to piconets. In this embodiment, the personal computer 2, the mobile phones 3A to 3C, and the PDA 4 are used.
Nodes such as Bluetooth (R)
It is assumed that hardware such as a Bluetooth (R) chip based on the oth (R) standard and a protocol necessary for network formation and data transfer are mounted.

Platform information for operating the platform in each node is, for example, CD-RO.
Information storage medium 9 such as M, DVD, MO, memory card
Stored in the personal computer 2 and the mobile phones 3A to 3C, P
It is installed in an information terminal device such as DA4. Alternatively, it is distributed via the communication line 8.

The server 6 is a device capable of functioning as a so-called server such as a workstation or a personal computer, for example, a backup in the case where an agent is lost at the destination, an update distribution of a program, a given item. Responsible for additional distribution of information. In the case of backup, for example, the specific information transmitted every time the mobile agent E moves, that is, various data necessary for backup is stored and managed. Also, the server 6
May have a function of publishing the stored information of the mobile agent E as a website on the Internet. Therefore, it is desirable that the server 6 can always connect to the network for that purpose. If the personal computer 2 owned by the user is constantly connected to the communication line 8, the personal computer 2 may function as the server 6.

As a usage pattern, the user basically has the mobile agent E, which is an electronic pet, in the main information terminal device (mobile source node; for example, the personal computer 2 in the example of FIG. 1) owned by the user. Just keep playing and enjoy the training game with mobile agents. In some cases, the mobile agent E is moved to another node of the user (mobile phone 3A), and the training game is enjoyed on the go.

Then, the mobile agent E, in accordance with the achievement condition given by the user, via the above-mentioned ad hoc networks Na to Nd, the nodes of the mobile phones 3A to 3C and the PDA 4 other than the mobile source node. Move between. If the achievement condition given by the destination node is satisfied, the mobile agent E is attached to the e-mail M and returns to the personal computer 2.

A personal computer 2 is used as a portable information terminal device.
The mobile phones 3A to 3C and the PDA 4 are shown as examples, but the present invention is not limited to this.
It may be a home game device, a FAX, a TV, a portable game device, or the like. The communication line 8 is, for example, a LAN
May be

[Explanation of Functional Block of Information Terminal Device] FIG. 2
FIG. 3 is a functional block diagram of a node (information terminal device; personal computer 2, mobile phones 3A to 3C, and PDA 4) in the present embodiment.

In the figure, each node includes an operation unit 10 through which a user takes care of the electronic pet and inputs movement conditions, a processing unit 20 that controls the operation of the entire apparatus, an image of the electronic pet, and various other items. A display unit 30 that displays a selection screen or a setting screen, a sound output unit 40 that outputs a sound effect, a transmission / reception unit 50 that transmits / receives data, and a position information detection unit 60 that detects current position information of a node. And a storage unit 70 that stores programs and various data.

The operation unit 10 is for inputting various selections and determinations such as the name of the electronic pet, the contents of care, the moving conditions, etc., and the operation input signal is the processing unit 20.
Is output to. The function can be realized by hardware such as a cross key, a track pad, a mouse, a lever, a button, a dial, and an input pen.

The processing section 20, for example, controls the entire apparatus,
Performs various arithmetic processing such as instructions to each functional block in the device and game arithmetic. The function is, for example, a CPU (C
It can be realized by hardware such as ISC type, RISC type), DSP, or ASIC (gate array etc.) or a given program. The program is stored in, for example, the storage unit 70 described later, and is read and executed as needed.

The processing unit 20 includes a platform unit 22 which is a mobile agent execution environment and a display unit 3.
An image generation unit 23 that generates an image signal to be displayed on 0,
The position information is acquired from the sound generation unit 24 that generates a sound signal such as a sound effect to be output to the sound output unit 40, the communication control unit 25 that controls the transmission and reception of data via the transmission / reception unit 50, and the position information detection unit 60. The position information acquisition unit 26 is included.

The platform section 22 includes an agent execution section 220, a game calculation section 221, a launcher section 222, a code conversion section 224, and an execution control section 226.
And an electronic mail unit 228 for connecting to the Internet and transmitting and receiving electronic mail. Then, for example, the environment of the breeding game is taken care of by accepting the mobile agent, executing and assisting the mobile agent, managing the agent staying in the information terminal device, and inputting / outputting the user for playing the electronic pet. To be realized.

The platform section 22 is constructed and realized, for example, on the basis of a program execution environment that does not depend on the architecture of the information terminal device, for example, Java (R). Java (R) is a language designed with object-oriented, distributed processing, and architecture-neutral themes. Ja
The va (R) language is compiled into an intermediate language called bytecode, and the bytecode is JavaVM (Java Virtual
It is executed in a virtual computer called "Machine". The distributed processing is realized by sending the bytecode to the information terminal device in which the virtual machine is operating. When the present embodiment is implemented in Java (R), the program code of the mobile agent corresponds to this bytecode, and the function of the play game by the mobile agent corresponds to distributed processing. Specific precedents include, for example, Aglets (IBM Japan), Plan
There are gent (Toshiba), JUMON (Omron), etc., and the platform unit 22 may appropriately use these precedents.

The agent execution unit 220 functions by executing the agent information 71 described later on the platform unit 22 and realizes various processes of the mobile agent corresponding to the electronic pet. That is, the agent execution unit 220 corresponds to a mobile agent in a running state. Then, for example, the processing for indicating the existence of the electronic pet is executed, such as displaying the playing status of the electronic pet alone, talking to the user, responding to the talking from the user, displaying care, and moving to another information terminal device. .

The game calculation section 221 has functions of managing the environment in which the electronic pet lives and managing the user interface. For example, the display of a menu screen for performing various settings, the stage (world) of the breeding game, and the placement of objects when the items are represented by 3DCG are executed.

The launcher unit 222 generates the program code of the mobile agent. Code converter 2
Reference numeral 24 encodes / decodes a program code and internal state and execution state information when the mobile agent moves. The execution control unit 226 suspends / resumes execution of the mobile agent when moving.

The image generator 23 is, for example, a CPU, a DS.
P, hardware such as an LSI dedicated to image generation, and programs and data stored in the storage unit 70, and generates and synthesizes 3DCG and 2DCG images based on instruction signals from the platform unit 22 and various data. And generate the screen of the training game.

The sound generator 24 is, for example, a CPU, a DS.
P, hardware such as an LSI dedicated to sound generation, and programs and data stored in the storage unit 70 to generate and synthesize sound signals based on signals and data from the game calculation unit 221. Sound data of electronic pet squeals, sound effects, BGM, etc. are prepared in advance in the storage unit 70.
If stored, the data is also read and reproduced, and the compressed data is decompressed (decoded).

The communication control unit 25 controls the process of connecting to the Internet and forming an ad hoc network by short-distance wireless communication, and transmits / receives data to / from another information terminal device or a predetermined server via the transmitting / receiving unit 50. To do. A process for connecting to a mobile phone line, a PHS line, or connecting to the Internet using the line is executed here. Furthermore, since the communication control unit 25 uses Bluetooth (R) as a short-range wireless technology in this embodiment, Bluetooth (R)
Bluetooth (R) control unit 2 that controls communication by protocol
Including 52.

The position information acquisition unit 26 includes the position information detection unit 6
The current position information of the node is obtained based on the control of 0 and the signal from the position information detection unit 60. The position information is obtained in the form of latitude / longitude, altitude, address, etc., for example. Examples of the method for detecting the position information include a position information search service provided by a mobile phone company, a method using GPS, and the like. The position information acquisition unit 26 has various types depending on the method to be adopted. Will be responsible for processing.

The display unit 30 displays image data representing an electronic pet based on the image signal from the image generation unit 23, and is, for example, CRT, LCD, EL.
It can be realized by hardware such as D, PDP, and HMD.

The sound output section 40 outputs a key operation sound of a menu screen or the like, a cry of an electronic pet, a sound effect when caring for, a BGM, etc. based on the sound signal from the sound generation section 24. is there. The function can be realized by a speaker or the like.

The transmission / reception unit 50 transmits / receives signals based on the communication signal of the communication control unit 25, and is a transmission / reception device for connecting to the communication line 8, LAN, mobile phone line network, PHS line network. Equipped with. Especially in this embodiment,
Bluetooth to form an ad hoc network
An (R) chip 52 is provided. The Bluetooth (R) chip 52 is composed of a plurality of or one LSI including a baseband unit, an RF unit, and a firmware unit.

The position information detecting section 60 is for detecting the position information of the information terminal device. For example, when a position information search service provided as a part of a service provided by a mobile phone company is used as a position information detection method, it is realized by a transmission / reception device for connecting to a mobile phone line. Or, if you want to use GPS,
It is realized by a receiver that receives radio waves necessary for observation.

FIG. 3 is a conceptual diagram of position information acquisition. In FIG. 3A, the positions of the nodes (mobile phones 3A, 3B, 3n) are calculated based on the triangulation method with a plurality of base stations B whose detailed position coordinates are known in advance. Specifically, it is realized as a location information search service provided by a mobile phone company or the like, and when using the method of (a),
The position information detection unit 60 corresponds to a transmission / reception device connected to a mobile phone line or a PHS line, and the position information acquisition unit 26 determines specific position information (eg, latitude / longitude, altitude, etc.) from a signal from the position information detection unit 60. Coordinates, address, etc.).

FIG. 3B shows a case where GPS is used. For example, DGPS that can determine the position with an error of a few meters
In the case of using (differential GPS), GPS observation is simultaneously performed by the base station B (reference station) and the node (observation point), and the base station B determines the difference between the coordinate value of the base station B and the coordinate value of the information terminal device. The information is obtained and sent as correction information to the node wirelessly. In addition to the electronic reference point, the base station B may be a mobile phone or PHS base station B whose detailed position coordinates are known in advance. Therefore, when the method of FIG. 3B is used, the position information detection unit 60 includes a transmission / reception device necessary for GPS observation, and the position information acquisition unit 26 uses the signal from the position information detection unit 60. Acquires specific position information of latitude and longitude.

The storage unit 70 stores various programs and data necessary for controlling the information terminal device, and the functions thereof are, for example, CD-ROM, MO, FD (R), DV.
It is realized by hardware such as D, IC memory, and hard disk. Particularly in this embodiment, the agent information 71, the platform information 72, the electronic mail program 76, and the internet connection program 77.
And Bluetooth (R) information 78.

The agent information 71 is the main body of the electronic pet to be raised, and is the program and data necessary for causing the staying node to execute the raising game, and the image data and sound necessary for displaying the electronic pet. Store data etc. Therefore, there are as many mobile agents (electronic pets) as there are information terminal devices. The agent information 71 is, in particular, the agent program 71.
0, status information 712, character information 714, outing action table 716, and agent possession information 718.
And, and these are moved as a set when moving between nodes.

The agent program 710 is a code of a program to be executed by the information terminal device of the moving destination, and corresponds to a byte code on Java (R), for example. The agent program 710 is generated by the launcher unit 222, put into the execution state by the execution control unit 226, and functions as the agent execution unit 220 described above. Then, the given character image is displayed, the electronic pet starts the activity, and the user can play with the electronic pet.

The status information 712 is, for example, information in the heap area such as instance variables, information in the stack area such as local variables, and a program counter. By including the state information 712, the mobile agent can continue processing from the state before moving. The state information 712 may be omitted depending on the settings of the game, but in that case, after the movement, the agent program 710 is executed from the beginning, and therefore the program description needs to be careful.

The character information 714 stores image data and sound data necessary for displaying the electronic pet.

The out-going behavior table 716 stores information for the mobile agent to set the behavior at the destination node and the condition for achieving the behavior, and is defined by the user before the movement.

FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining an example of the structure of the outing action table. As shown in FIG.
16 includes an action definition file 716-1, a condition definition file 716-2, an arrival date and time 716-3, place information 716-4, and an action history 716-5.

The action definition file 716-1 is data that describes the behavior of the mobile agent at the destination, and for example, the contents of the behavior such as “carry mail”, “find friends”, “go to destination”. Which is prepared and stored in action information 729 of platform information 72, which will be described later, and is selected and duplicated.

The condition definition file 716-2 stores details of conditions according to the contents of the action definition file 716-1. For example, in the case of the "carry mail" action, information such as the address of the destination, the file name of the mail, the attachment file name, and the stay time at the destination node corresponds to this.

The arrival date and time 716-3 is the date and time when the movement to the destination information terminal device is completed, and is the reference time for starting the next movement. For example, since the training game cannot be established when the mobile agent stays at the destination forever, measures such as automatically moving to the next terminal after a predetermined time has been taken. Alternatively, the date and time of departure of the information terminal device of the user is stored, and when the predetermined time has elapsed compared to the current time, the user can return to the original time to set the movement by the deadline.

The location information 716-4 is information for specifying the destination node (information terminal device) and is, for example, a device serial number or e-mail address information. By including it in the backup information transmitted to the server 6 each time it is moved, it is utilized in the movement history and the like.

The action history 716-5 is for mobile
The agent stores a history of actions at the destination. For example, the number of times of movement, a flag indicating whether or not the backup information has been transmitted from the movement destination to the server 6, a flag indicating whether or not the achievement condition is satisfied (homecoming flag), and the like may be set as appropriate according to the action.

The agent possession information 718 is information relating to the characteristics of the individual electronic pet, and is the breeder information 7
18-1, a training parameter 718-2, a friend file 718-3, and attached file information 718-4 are included.

The breeder information 718-1 is information about the owner of the electronic pet, that is, the user of the mobile source node, and also stores the destination information when returning to the mobile source node. The contents are appropriately set in addition to the user name (real name or nickname) and the mail address of the mobile source node. The mobile agent can determine whether it is a mobile source node by comparing user information 727 (described later) stored in the node currently staying with bleeder information 718-1.

The breeding parameter 718-2 is information describing the breeding state of the electronic pet in the breeding game. For example, name, sex, race, age, birthday, intimacy with the user, level of various abilities, and the like. The race defines the appearance such as "pink bear" or "white cat". The level is not only a numerical value indicating the level, but also items such as learned words, learned play, learned actions, items to carry, the number of moves to other nodes, and the farthest / nearest moving place. Detailed information may be included.

Further, as the breeding parameter 718-2, a flag corresponding to a process (action of the electronic pet) executable by the electronic pet is prepared, and a flag of the action which can be performed according to the degree of care and breeding. Is set up.

The friend file 718-3 stores the information exchanged between the electronic pet and another electronic pet staying in the same node. FIG. 5: is a figure which shows an example of a structure of a friend file. As shown in the figure, for example, the name of the partner's electronic pet, the name of the owner, a comment, etc. are stored.

The attached file information 718-4 stores a file to be additionally moved when the mobile agent moves based on the outbound action table 716 when the mobile agent moves. For example, if the mobile agent carries e-mail, the file of the e-mail is stored here, and if stored at the destination node, it is deleted as delivered. Alternatively, when music data or image data is attached as a souvenir, it is stored here.

The platform information 72 is mobile /
Stores programs and data for realizing the agent automatic execution environment. Platform part 22 is Java
In case of building / implementing with (R), the information necessary for executing Java (R) is also included here.

The platform information 72 includes the platform program 721 and the game world information 7 in particular.
22, agent character information 723, care item information 724, user information 727, agent management information 728, and action information 729 are included.

The platform program 721 is a program for causing the processing section 20 to function as the platform section 22.

The game world information 722 stores programs and data for constructing and controlling the game screen excluding the electronic pet. Specifically, for example, data for displaying a breeding room for keeping an electronic pet, etc., and data for an object, texture data, etc. are included here when the data is displayed by 3DCG.

The agent / character information 723 is image data for displaying an image of an electronic pet to be raised, or a data group necessary for image generation. For example, bitmap data, object data forming a character, and motion. Data etc. Image data regarding items and the like of the electronic pet are also included here. It also includes the cries of electronic pets. Then, when the mobile agent is generated, the agent agent is appropriately changed according to the race setting and the age setting of the electronic pet.
Information is selected from the character information 723 and the character information 7
Replicated to 14.

The care item information 724 stores information necessary for displaying and outputting care in the raising game. For example, for each item of care, the items used for care, image data and motion data for displaying the state in which the electronic pet is being taken care of and the state in which the electronic pet is being taken care of, sound data, and the care taken The increase / decrease value of the parameter when executed, etc. are stored.

More specifically, for example, if there is "dressing" as a part of care, image data and object data of items such as brushes for brushing hair and collars of different colors are used, and grooming is performed using them. It includes data for generating an image of an electronic pet or grooming image. In addition, data for outputting a sound such as a brushing sound or a crying voice that the electronic pet is pleased when being groomed may be included. Further, if "play" is included as a part of care, a program necessary for an in-game game (mini game) and data for outputting an image and a sound of an electronic pet playing the game together with the player are stored.

The mobile agent then takes care of the care item information 72 according to the breeding parameter 718-2.
The data is read from 4 and the electronic pet that is taken care of is displayed. Alternatively, information corresponding to the race of the electronic pet is duplicated in the agent information 71 and used.

The care item information 724 is set in the platform information 72 in advance and is distributed / distributed. For example, the contents depending on the current situation such as summer water play, winter snow play, etc. are transmitted via the communication line. , Or CD-ROM
It is added / deleted as appropriate by adding an information storage medium such as. Furthermore, the mobile agent may bring data from another information terminal device.

The user information 727 is, for example, the address, name, age, sex, nickname, e-mail address, telephone number, etc. of the user who is the owner of the electronic pet.
Of these, the nickname and the e-mail address are destination information necessary for returning from the owner node and the destination node, and are essential for game development. For other items, display / non-display is appropriately selected, and the hidden items are not viewed / published by the mobile agent.

The agent management information 728 is information for storing and managing the number of mobile agents existing in the node and their states. The contents include, for example, the total number of mobile agents, an identification flag indicating whether or not the player has created, an execution state (suspended or executing) flag, information regarding the location where the agent information 71 is stored, and the like.

The action information 729 stores scripts and data set in the action definition file 716-1 defined in the outing action table 716.
Specifically, for example, mobile agents such as “deliver mail”, “find and return files”, “go to destination”, “find friends”, “free trip”, “move 100 times”, etc. It is set and stored for each behavior of the electronic pet. The action information 729 is not limited to information prepared in advance, and may be downloaded from the server 6 or added by the information storage medium 9.

The e-mail program 76 and the Internet connection program 77 are programs adapted to be operated by the platform section 22 based on a known technique. It is also possible to appropriately call and use what is provided in advance.

The Bluetooth (R) information 78 is the publicly known Bluetoot.
Programs and data that enable data transmission / reception based on the h (R) standard, such as Bluetooth (R) protocol stack, Bluetooth (R) terminal information, and Bluetooth.
(R) Includes utility programs.

In each of the above-described functions, the agent information 71 and the portion of the program or the data are used.
It is possible to appropriately select whether the mobile agent is to be executed, and to what extent the agent platform side is implemented, considering the capability of the execution environment of the node.

For example, when the expected processing capacity of the node is high and the capacity of the communication line 8 is large, the agent character information 723 may be possessed by the mobile agent itself, or conversely, the node When the processing capability is low, for example, the mobile agent state information 712 is deleted, and the training parameter 718-
It is also possible to delete the item related to word learning from 2 to reduce the information of the agent and reduce the load of movement and processing.

[Explanation of Functional Blocks of Server] Next, functional blocks of the server 6 will be described. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of functional blocks of the server 6.

In the figure, the server 6 is provided with a processing unit 620 for controlling the operation of the entire apparatus, a transmission / reception unit 650 for transmitting / receiving data, and a storage unit 670 for storing programs and various data.

The processing unit 620 controls the entire apparatus and commands to each functional block in the apparatus. The function can be realized by hardware such as CPU (CISC type, RISC type), DSP, ASIC (gate array, etc.) or a given program. The program is stored in, for example, the storage unit 670 described later, and is read as needed.

The processing unit 620 has an electronic mail unit 622 that controls the sending / receiving / creating / editing function of an electronic mail including notification information and specific information from the mobile agent, and communication control that controls the sending / receiving of data via the sending / receiving unit 650. Part 625
And are included.

The storage unit 670 stores various programs and data necessary for controlling the server 6, and the functions thereof are, for example, CD-ROM, MO, FD (R), DVD,
It is realized by hardware such as an IC memory and a hard disk. In this embodiment, in particular, an Internet connection program 672, an electronic mail program 674,
Agent history information 676.

The agent history information 676 stores notification information and specific information from mobile agents moving between nodes. In particular, the last update date / time 676-1 for storing the update date of the information, the final moving location 676-2 for storing the specific information of the node currently staying by the mobile agent, and the duplicate information of the mobile agent are stored. Backup agent 676-3. The specific information is information for identifying an individual to enable communication with the node and transmission / reception of data. For example, if the node is a mobile phone, a telephone number or an electronic mail function is provided. For example, an email address.

[Explanation of Process Flow in Node] Next,
The processing flow of the node will be described with reference to FIGS. 7 to 15 and 23 to 27.

FIG. 7 is a flow chart for explaining the flow of the breeding game process. As shown in the figure, the game calculation unit 221 first displays a game screen that is a stage of the breeding game, for example, a virtual world or a breeding room (step S102).

When the mobile agent has already stayed in the node and is in the execution state (Y in step S104).
ES), the agent execution unit 220 displays the electronic pet (step S106).

FIG. 23 is a diagram showing an example of the game screen of the raising game. The game screen in the figure has a screen configuration that is imaged of a given virtual world or breeding room. A menu screen is displayed in the game screen.
And button B that talks to the mobile agent,
When the mobile agent stays at the node and is in the running state, the electronic pet E is displayed as shown in FIG.

When the node is the personal computer 2 or the like, the OS basic screen, so-called desktop screen, may be used as the game screen. When the node has a pointing device (for example, a mouse or a trackpad), the pointing device may be used instead of the button B to directly specify the electronic pet on the screen to talk to. .

When button A is selected to display the menu screen (YES in step S108), the agent
Menu processing is executed, for example, new creation of a mobile agent, setting of behavior of the mobile agent in another information terminal, etc. are executed (step S
110).

When button B is selected to talk to the electronic pet (YES in step S112), a signal is issued to the agent execution unit 220 corresponding to the selected electronic pet to execute the care process. And, for example,
A so-called breeding game, such as feeding, playing and talking to the electronic pet, is executed (step S11).
4).

When the mobile agent is transmitted from another information terminal device, it becomes a mobile agent acceptance interruption (YE in step S116).
S), acceptance processing is executed (step S118,
Steps S620 to S632 of FIG. 12).

When there is an interrupt of another function (step S120), the function is executed appropriately (step S122). Other functions are, for example, use of mobile phone functions, creation and transmission / reception of e-mail, requests from peripheral devices, and the like.

In the breeding game process, while the user makes no selection, the mobile agent behaves according to the agent program 710, and, for example, a state in which the electronic pet plays alone or sleeps is displayed on the screen. The user can see the situation at will.

[Description of Each Process] Next, the breeding game process will be described more specifically.

FIG. 8 is a flow chart for explaining the flow of agent menu processing. As shown in the figure, the game calculation section 221 first displays a menu screen to select a menu item (step S20).
2). Menu items include, for example, "generate",
It includes “care”, “going behavior setting”, “departure”, “lost child search”, “sleep”, “return”, and the like. If "Return" is selected, the process returns to the breeding game process flow shown in FIG. 7 (YES in step S234).

In the example of FIG. 23, the menu screen A1 is displayed in a so-called pull-down mode from the button A. The display of menus and selection and input of menus are publicly known, and detailed description thereof is omitted here.

[I: Description of Agent Creation Processing] FIG. 8
In, when the user wants to create his or her own electronic pet, the item of “generation” is selected. Select the "Generate" item
If input (step S204), the game calculation unit 221 executes agent creation processing (step S206).

FIG. 9 is a flow chart for explaining the flow of agent creation processing. As shown in the figure, the game calculation section 221 first selects the necessity of creating a mobile agent (step S302).
If it is not created, the agent creation process is terminated (NO in step S302), and if it is created, the setting screen is displayed (YES in step S302 → S304).

The user sets the electronic pet according to the setting screen. Specifically, for example, the name of the electronic pet,
Set the display form such as gender, race and color pattern, and the initial level value. The setting may be specified by the user or may be automatically selected by the game calculation unit 221. Then, the selected result is stored in the breeding parameter 718-2 by the game calculation unit 221 (step S306).

Next, the game calculation section 221 confirms the presence or absence of the user information 727 (step S308). When the mobile agent is created for the first time, the user information 727 is newly created (NO in step S308 → S).
310).

If the user information 727 already exists (YES in step S308) or is newly created, the game calculation section 221 creates bleeder information 718-1 (step S312), and agent / character information 723. Necessary information is copied to the character information 714, and an image with a collar or tag attached to the electronic pet is displayed (step S314).

When the setting is completed, the launcher section 22
2 generates a mobile agent (electronic pet) according to the settings (step S316). Agent information 71 is created in the storage unit 70.

When the agent information 71 is prepared, the execution control unit 226 sets the mobile agent in the running state (step S318) and registers it in the agent management information 728 (step S320). When the mobile agent is generated and registered, the process returns to the agent menu processing flow of FIG.

[Ii: Description of Care Process] In FIG. 8, when the user wants to care for the electronic pet, the item “care” is selected. When the item "care" is selected and input (YES in step S208), the game calculation unit 221 executes care processing (step S210).

FIG. 10 is a flow chart for explaining the flow of care processing. As shown in the figure, the game calculation unit 221 first refers to the agent management information 728 to confirm the current number of electronic pets (step S4).
02). When a plurality of mobile agents in the execution state stay in the information terminal device (step S40)
(YES of 4), the list is displayed, and the user is made to select the mobile agent (electronic pet) to be taken care of (step S406).

When the mobile agent (electronic pet) is selected, the game calculation section 221 outputs a signal requesting execution of the care processing to the agent execution section 220 of the relevant mobile agent (step S4).
08).

The mobile agent that has received the care processing execution signal, that is, the agent execution unit 220, refers to the training parameter 718-2, displays a list of cares that can be executed according to the degree of training, and takes care of the user. Is selected (step S410). The content of care can be appropriately set according to the content of the game, and includes, for example, meals, presents, games, discipline, conversation, treatment, and the like. Further, it goes without saying that appropriate selection steps are added depending on the content of care. For example, for feeding,
Enter the type and number of things to give.

When the care content is selected, the agent execution section 220 reads out image data or the like according to the care content from the agent information 71 or the care item information 724 (step S412). And, for example,
An image in which the electronic pet is taken care of or an image in which the electronic pet is taken care of is output (step S414).
The image being taken care of or being taken is, for example, an image of eating or eating the selected food if it is a meal, a corresponding mini game if it is a game, and a conversation if it is a conversation A program or the like that realizes is executed. The care image may be a still image or a moving image such as animation, and of course, sound effects, BGM, etc. may be appropriately output.

When the output of the care image is completed, the agent execution section 220 changes the breeding parameter 718-2 (step S416).

If further care is taken with the same contents, the procedure returns to the reading of the care item information 724 (YES in step S418). When it is desired to use the same electronic pet for the care of different contents, the menu display of the care items is returned (NO in step S420).

When the end of the care process is input (YES in step S420), the agent execution section 220 ends the care process and returns to the flow of the agent menu process of FIG.

[Iii: Description of Outing Action Setting Processing] When the user wants to move his or her electronic pet to another node, it is necessary to set up an outing action table 716. Figure 8
In, if the item of “setting of going out action” is selected / input (step S212), the game calculation unit 22
1 executes an outing action setting process (step S2)
14).

FIG. 11 is a flow chart for explaining the flow of outing action setting processing. As shown in the figure, the game calculation section 221 first displays a setting screen (step S502). Next, the growth parameter 718-
2, the action options according to the degree of training are read out from the action information 729 and displayed, and the user is allowed to select them (step S504). Actions include, for example, "deliver mail,""find and retrieve files,""go to destination,""findfriends,""freetrip."

When the action is selected, the user is further required to input necessary information for each action (step S506). The information required for each action includes, for example, the content of an email and an attached file, search conditions for a file to be found, position information of a destination, a free travel period, and the like.

When the action of the electronic pet at the moving destination (outgoing destination) is set, next, the content of the bleeder information 718-1 carried by the mobile agent is displayed for confirmation (step S508). If there is information that does not want to be leaked to the outside or there is a change (YES in step S510), the game calculation unit 221 changes the bleeder information 718-1 (step S512).

Next, when attaching an attached file to the mobile agent (YES in step S514), a file is created or selected (step S516). The attached file mentioned here is, for example, various data such as image data which is a souvenir for a user of a destination node. The attached file is stored in the attached file information 718-4.

FIG. 24 is a diagram showing an example of a setting screen of the going-out action table. As shown in FIG. 24A, when an action is selected, the game calculation section 221 displays a screen for further inputting necessary information according to the selection, as shown in (b) and (c), for example.

FIG. 24 (b) is an example of the case where "find a friend" is selected as the action. For example, a keyword as a friend condition, an outing period, and a staying period at the destination node are shown. To be selected by the user.
When the keyword is included in the user information 727 of the destination node, the mobile agent determines that it is a friend and duplicates the user information 727 to bring it back. If the user wants to be a friend by referring to the user information 727 of the other party, the user can send a new email or send the electronic pet to play again, which can be a trigger for creating a new relationship.

FIG. 24C shows an example of the case where "go to the destination" is selected as the action. For example, the place name of the destination, the conditions such as latitude / longitude, the address, and the period of going out, Ask the user to select the length of stay at the destination node and the information about the item (attached file) to be given as a souvenir.

If there is no change in the setting of the outing action (YES in step S518), the outing action table 716 is created or updated (step S520). At this time, the arrival date and time 716-3 is reset, the location information 716-4 is moved source information, and the action history 716-5 is reset. Then, the processing returns to the agent menu processing flow of FIG.

[Iv: Description of Departure Processing] In FIG. 8, when the user wants to move his or her electronic pet to another node, the item “departure” is selected. In the following description, the node where the user is currently staying with the mobile agent is referred to as node A, and the node on the side receiving the mobile agent, that is, the node to which the user is moving is referred to as node B.

When the item of "departure" is selected / input (step S216), the game calculation section 221 displays the contents of the outing action table 716 to let the user confirm the contents (step S218). If there is no change, the departure process is executed (NO in step S220 → S222).
If there is a change, the outing action table setting process is executed (YES in step S220).

FIG. 12 is a flow chart for explaining the flow of the departure process. As shown in the figure, first, the execution control unit 226 suspends the execution of the mobile agent (step S602). Next, the platform unit 22 duplicates the agent information 71 and encodes the information duplicated by the code conversion unit 224 (step S604). Hereinafter, the duplicated and encoded information is referred to as duplicate agent information 71 '.

Next, the platform section 22 searches for a node connected to the ad hoc network via the communication control section 25 and the transmission / reception section 50, and the mobile
The link required for transmitting / receiving the agent is established (step S606). That is, the nodes connected to the ad hoc network exist in addition to the nodes A and B, and links are established between the plurality of nodes.

When the link is established in the node B (step S608), the user information 727 and the position information from the position information detection unit 60 are acquired and returned to the node A (step S610).

At node A, the platform section 22
Displays the returned user information 727 and position information (step S612). The user confirms the displayed information and determines whether or not the mobile agent can depart. When the departure cancellation is input, the departure process is canceled (YES in step S614). If the departure is not canceled, the destination selection process is executed (N in step S614).
O → S616). If the mobile agent moves autonomously, steps S612 to S614 are
It may be skipped.

FIG. 13 is a flow chart for explaining the flow of the destination selection processing. In the destination selection process,
When the movement purpose is designated, the node having the corresponding or closest condition is selected as the movement destination from the returned user information 727 and position information.

Specifically, as shown in the figure, the platform section 22 refers to the action history 716-5 of the outing action table 716 (step S702).

If the return flag is not set in the action history 716-5, it is determined that the achievement condition which is the purpose of going out has not been cleared yet (step S
(YES in 704), the platform unit 22 refers to the outing action table 716 (step S714).

If the action definition file 716-1 of the outing action table 716 is an action in which a destination for movement such as “go to destination” is specified (YES in step S716), the ad hoc network is connected. The terminal closest to the destination is selected by referring to the position information returned from each node (step S).
718)

In the case of an action in which the destination is not designated (NO in step S716), the user is made to select from the user information 727 and the position information of the displayed node, or randomly selected (step S720).

On the other hand, in step S704, if the homing flag is set in the action history 716-5, selection is made to return to the mobile source node (step S).
Yes at 704). The platform unit 22 compares the returned user information 727 with the bleeder information 718-1 (step S706).

If there is a node having the same information as the bleeder information 718-1 (YES in step S708), that node is selected (step S712). If there is no node with matching information (NO in step S708), the mail homing process is executed, and the process returns to the mobile source node via electronic mail (step S710; details will be described later). When the selection is completed, the process returns to the flow of the departure process of FIG.

FIG. 25 is a diagram showing an example of a screen display in the node A when the copy agent information is transmitted from the move destination selection processing. In FIG. 25A, the currently linked nodes are arranged around the node A, and the contents of the user information 727 of the currently selected node are displayed. If the decision is entered here, FIG.
As shown in (b), an electronic pet corresponding to the content of the outing action is displayed on the screen, and the user is greeted for departure.
(B) is an example in the case of the action of "going to the destination", and for example, an image of an electronic pet carrying a furoshiki is displayed. (C) is an example in the case of the action of "carry mail", and for example, an image of an electronic pet with a sealed letter is displayed. Such image data is appropriately read from the character information 714 and the agent / character information 723 and displayed.

Subsequently, in FIG. 12, the platform section 22 transmits the copy agent information 71 'to the selected node B (step S618).

In the node B, the acceptance process is executed (steps S620 to S632). The platform unit 22 of the node B receives and stores the duplicate agent information 71 'from the node A (step S620), displays a screen for acceptance confirmation, and makes the user judge acceptance or rejection (step S622).

FIG. 26 is a diagram showing an example of the acceptance screen. As shown in FIG. 26 (a), a message indicating that the electronic pet has been received is displayed, and subsequently, as shown in FIG. 26 (b), a screen asking the electronic pet to permit the user of node B to stay is displayed. Is displayed.

When the acceptance OK is input (YES in step S624), the reception OK signal is returned to the node A (step S626). Then, the code conversion unit 224 decodes the copy agent information 71 ′ received, and the execution control unit 226 sets the execution state (step S628). Now, the mobile agent (electronic pet) can safely move to the node B.

On the other hand, if acceptance is not OK (NO in step S624), a signal indicating reception NG is returned to the node A (step S630). Then, the duplicate agent information 71 'is deleted (step S632).

On the other hand, the platform section 22 of node A
Receives the reception OK / NG signal from the node B (step S634).

If reception is OK (Y in step S636)
ES), and displays a screen to the effect that the movement of the electronic pet has succeeded to inform the user (step S646). Subsequently, the platform unit 22 connects to the communication line 8 to access the server 6 (step S648) and transmits the duplicate agent information 71 'for backup (step S650). On the server 6 side, the backup agent 676-of the agent history information 676-
3 is updated (not shown). Then, the unnecessary duplication agent information 71 ′ is deleted (step S652),
Returning to the flow of the agent menu processing of FIG.

If the reception is NG (N in step S636)
O), the platform section 22 displays a screen to the effect that the movement has failed to inform the user and makes a decision to cancel the departure (step S638). If the departure cancellation is not input (NO in step S640), the node is searched again and the link is established to find another destination (step S606). If the departure cancellation is entered (step S
640: YES), the copy agent information 71 'is deleted (step S642). Then, the execution control unit 226
Returns the agent information 71 to the execution state, and returns to the flow of the agent menu processing of FIG. 8 (step S644).

FIG. 27 is a diagram showing an example of the reception success screen and the reception failure screen. FIG. 27A shows a case where the movement is successful, and an image of an electronic pet across the nodes is displayed. In the case of failure, an image of the electronic pet that the user apprehends is displayed as shown in FIG.

[V: Description of lost child search processing] After the mobile agent (electronic pet) has moved to another node, the user waits for its return. But,
There is a possibility that it will not be able to return due to some kind of failure due to moving between nodes. When the user wants to confirm the whereabouts of the mobile agent or wants to return, anyway, in FIG. 8, the item of "lost child search" is selected.

If the "lost child search" item is selected / input (step S224), the game calculation section 221 executes a lost child search process (step S226).

14 and 15 are flowcharts for explaining the flow of lost child search processing. As shown in the figure, first, the platform unit 22 of the node A refers to the agent management information 728, and lists the mobile agents (electronic pets) created by the user himself who are currently moving to another node. Is displayed to prompt the user to select a search target (step S802).

When the mobile agent to be searched is selected, the server 6 is requested to search (step S).
804). Specifically, for example, the server 6 is accessed and a signal to that effect is transmitted or a search request e-mail is transmitted.

Upon receiving the search request from the node A, the processing unit 620 of the server 6 executes the forced homing process (step S806). In case of search request (step S80)
8) The final update date / time 676-1 is referred to and compared with the current date / time (step S810).

When the update is made within the predetermined time limit (NO in step S810), the processing unit 620 replies to node A as a safe mail (electronic mail) to that effect (step S818). In the e-mail, the user (owner) can be relieved by including the information about the current whereabouts, such as "I am at XX (nickname) living in △△" from the last moving place 676-2. It may be allowed to.

If the mobile agent is not updated within the predetermined time limit, it is determined that the mobile agent cannot move next for some reason (YES in step S810).
The processing unit 620 refers to the final moving location 676-2 (step S812) and transmits a search mail (e-mail) to the node B (step S814). The search mail includes information for identifying the mobile agent to be searched, for example, breeder information 718-1. Then, the processing unit 620 returns a searching mail (e-mail) indicating that the searching is being performed to the node A (step S816).

When the node A receives the reply from the server 6 (YES in step S830), it displays a safe mail or a searching mail and prompts the user to make a decision (step S832).

The user determines from the display of the mail whether or not to forcibly return to the home page, and inputs it. When the forced homing is input (YES in step S834), the platform unit 22 of the node A transmits a request for forced homing to the server 6 (step S836). If the forced homing is not input (NO in step S834), the lost child search process is terminated, and the process returns to the agent menu process flow of FIG.

If the processing section 620 of the server 6 receives the request for forced homing from the node A (step S80)
6), a search mail is transmitted to the node B (steps S812 → S814). Then, a search-inquiring mail is returned to the node A to the effect that the search is in progress in order to forcibly return to the home (step S816).

Next, the processing in the node B will be described with reference to FIG. In the node B that has received the search mail, the platform section 22 executes a search inquiry process, and first searches the agent management information 728 for a corresponding mobile agent (step S84).
2).

If there is no mobile agent information corresponding to the agent management information 728, or if the agent has already been moved (NO in step S844), it is determined that the node B is not present, and a corresponding missing mail is sent. As a reply to the server 6 and the process ends (step S8).
54)

In the server 6, when the missing mail is received from the node B (FIG. 14; YE in step S820).
S), the processing unit 620 determines that the mobile agent cannot return home by itself. Then, the backup agent 676-3, which is a backup of the corresponding agent history information 676, is read (FIG. 14; step S824), attached to an electronic mail and transmitted to the node A (FIG. 14; step S824). When the backup is transmitted to the node A, the processing unit 620 updates the last update date / time 676-1 and the last move location 676-2 (FIG. 1).
4; Step S826).

If the node B has the information of the corresponding mobile agent (YES in step S844), but there is no other Bluetooth (R) -compatible node in the vicinity, the node B cannot move to the next node (step S846). YE
S) Since there is a request to search for the corresponding mobile agent, the user is informed that the node B will be forced to return to home and the user of the node B is notified (step S848). Then, the platform unit 22 of the node B executes a mail homing process to be described later to move the mobile agent home through the e-mail (step S850), and erases the corresponding agent information 71 in the storage unit 70 (step S85).
2).

Through the above lost child search processing, the user can obtain information about the current whereabouts of the mobile agent (electronic pet) or can be forced to leave the home, so that the user does not get sad and feel lost when he or she goes out. End

[Vi: Description of Execution Control Processing] When it is desired to temporarily stop the execution or resume the execution of the mobile agent, the "sleep" item is selected in FIG.

When the item of "sleep" is selected / input (step S228), the game calculation section 221 refers to the agent management information 728 to display a list of mobile agents who are staying, and the user is targeted. Is selected (step S230). Next, when the selected mobile agent is made to select execution suspension, execution restart, or deletion, the execution control unit 226 executes the selected content (step S232). The game calculation unit 221 updates the agent management information 728 (step S233).

[Explanation of Mobile Agent Processing] Next, with reference to FIGS. 16 to 21, the mobile agent processing will be described.

FIG. 16 is a flow chart for explaining the processing flow of the mobile agent. As shown in the figure, the agent execution unit 220 executes various processes on the mobile agent that has been generated and is in the execution state.

The agent execution section 220 first confirms whether or not an interruption signal is issued from the execution control section 226. If the interruption signal is issued, the process ends (YES in step S902). When the interruption signal is not issued (NO in step S902), the outing action table 7
16 is referred to (step S904).

If the outing action table 716 is set (YES in step S904), the outing action table 7 is set.
The process is executed according to 16 (step S90).
6). When the outing action table 716 is not set (NO in step S904), the standard action process is executed (step S908).

FIG. 17 is a flow chart for explaining the flow of standard action processing of the mobile agent. As shown in FIG.
First, the agent management information 728 is referenced (step S1002).

If another mobile agent is staying (YES in step S1004), the friend file 718-3 is referred to (step S1006). If the other mobile agent is not registered (step S1006), the other mobile agent is not registered (step S1004). S1008), a new friend file 718
-3 is registered (step S1010).

Next, the agent execution section 220 determines whether or not a care processing execution signal is output from the game calculation section 221 (step S1012). If the care processing execution signal is output (YES in step S1012).
S) The above-mentioned care processing is executed (step S101).
4).

When the signal is not output (NO in step S1012), the agent executing section 220 refers to the breeding parameter 718-2 (step S101).
6) Randomly select an action from the actions that can be executed according to the degree of training (step S1018). Then, the image data or the like corresponding to the action is displayed as the character information 71.
4 and the agent / character information 723 are searched and displayed (step S1020). For example, if the mobile agent can perform the actions of “sleep”, “roll around”, “play alone”, “practice arts”, and “dress up”, one of them is randomly selected and the screen is displayed. Above, the behavior of the electronic pet is displayed. When the display is completed, the process returns to the agent flow of FIG.

[Explanation of Processing Based on Outgoing Behavior Table] Next, processing of the mobile agent based on the outgoing behavior table 716 will be described.

FIG. 18 is a flow chart for explaining the flow of processing when the "go to destination" action is defined. As shown in the figure, the agent execution unit 2
20 is the user information 72 of the node currently staying.
7 and position information are acquired, and it is determined whether the mobile source or the destination is reached by comparing with the outing action table 716 and the bleeder information 718-1 (step S11).
02).

If the node currently staying is the mobile source (YES in step S1103), the action history 716-5 is referred to and the state of the homecoming flag is confirmed (step S1134).

If the return flag is set (YES in step S1134), the agent execution unit 220
Character information 714 or agent / character information 723 is assumed to have returned home after clearing the achievement conditions.
From, the homecoming greeting indicating that the visit is successful is selected and displayed (step S1136). Next, the outing action table 716 is reset (step S1138), and the process returns to the flow of FIG.

If the return flag is not set (NO in step S1134), the agent execution unit 220
Assuming that the backup agent 676-3 has returned to the home at the destination node for some reason
A greeting screen indicating that the going out has failed is selected and displayed (step S1140). Next, go out action table 7
16 is reset (step S1138), and the process returns to the flow of FIG.

FIG. 30 is a diagram showing an example of a greeting screen when returning home. If the outing is successful, Fig. 30
As shown in (b) or (d) subsequent to (a), an image of an electronic pet reporting a homing to the user is displayed. (B) corresponds to an example in the case of the "go to the destination" action, and (d) is an example in the case of the "search for a message" action. The image of the electronic pet may be appropriately selected from, for example, variations such as a dirty appearance and a tired appearance during a long journey, depending on the length of the outing period and the destination. On the other hand, if the outing fails, it is shown in FIG.
After (a), (c) is displayed.

In determining the destination, if the information on the destination stored in the condition definition file 716-2 and the information on the position information or the user information 727 match, the agent execution unit 220 arrives at the destination. (YES in step S1104), and the action history 716-5
Processing for setting the homing flag of the child (step S110)
6).

Subsequently, the agent execution part 220 refers to the action history 716-5 (step S110).
8). If the arrival action process has not been executed, (step S
(YES in 1110), the arrival behavior process is executed to greet the user of the node B.

FIG. 19 is a flow chart for explaining the flow of arrival action processing. As shown in the figure, the agent execution unit 220 first acquires the arrival time and the location information, and stores them in the arrival date and time 716-3 and the location information 716-4 (step S1202). Then, a greeting according to the action is displayed (step S1204). The greeting image and sound data are appropriately read and output from the character information 714 or the agent / character information 723.

Next, the agent execution part 220 refers to the attached file information 718-4, if there is a file owned by the owner, or if there is a file acquired by another node while moving. (Step S1206
YES), the file is output (step S1).
208). This corresponds to giving a souvenir to the user of the destination node.

When the greeting and the attached file are output, the action history 716-5 is updated (step S1210), and the process returns to the flow of FIG.

Subsequently, the agent execution part 220 executes the travel destination mail process (step S1114). In the destination mail processing, as shown in FIG. 20, first, the owner is requested to send a mail from the destination, and the user's permission is obtained (step S1302).

If permitted (YES in step S1304), the sentence of the destination mail is created by referring to the user information 727 (step S1308). For example, "How are you? I'm fine. Now, (nickname) in (location information)
I'm here! Insert the specified content into the fixed phrase.

Next, the agent execution unit 220 displays whether there is a file that can be attached and prompts the user of the node B to select it (step S1310). The file that can be attached here is a bonus that is attached to the e-mail of the travel destination. If the file exists (Y in step S1312)
ES), a file is selected (step S131).
4).

When the selected file is an image file (step S1316), for example, an image of the electronic pet is randomly selected from the character information 714 and the agent / character information 723, and is combined as an image to be attached (step S1316). (S1318), and attach it to the destination mail (step S1320). Then, the email section 228
Refers to the bleeder information 718-1 and transmits a travel destination mail to the mobile source node (step S1322), and updates the action history 716-5 (step S132).
4).

As a result, the user of the mobile source node (the creator of the electronic pet) receives a letter from the electronic pet informing him that the destination is safe. Furthermore, if there is an attached file, since the electronic pet is combined, it is possible to add the enjoyment as if a snap photo was taken and sent at the destination. FIG. 28 is a diagram showing a display example of a travel destination mail sent to a mobile source node.

Subsequently, the platform section 22 executes a process of creating and transmitting a backup mail corresponding to the notification information to the server 6. That is, the platform unit 22
First duplicates the agent information 71 of the mobile agent (step S1326) and encodes the duplicate agent information 71 '(step S132).
8). Then, the e-mail unit 228 creates an e-mail, attaches the duplicate agent information 71 ′ (step S1330), and sends it to the server 6 (step S13).
32). The platform section 22 deletes the duplicate agent information 71 ′ (step S1334) and displays a thank-you note for sending the destination mail (step S1336). An example of a thank-you message is, "You have successfully sent the letter. Thank you very much. (Nickname)
It's kind and gentle! ", Etc., and an image of the electronic pet corresponding thereto are displayed. When the thank-you message is displayed, the process returns to the flow of FIG.

In FIG. 18, subsequently, the agent execution section 220 refers to the action history 716-5 to confirm whether the homing flag is set (step S111).
6). If the homing flag is set (step S11)
(YES of 16), it is determined that the goal has been achieved at the node currently staying, and a greeting of achievement of the goal corresponding to the set action is selected and displayed from the character information 714 or the agent / character information 723 (step S).
1118).

FIG. 29 is a diagram showing an example of a screen display of a greeting for achieving the purpose. This figure is a greeting screen that corresponds to the "Go to destination" action. For example, an electronic pet has arrived at the destination (Destination Name) at "(Nickname)! "..." text and an image of a happy electronic pet are displayed.

When the greeting image is displayed, the game calculation section 221 executes the mail homing process and returns to the mobile source node (step S1120).

In the mail homing process, as shown in FIG. 21, the electronic mail unit 228 refers to the bleeder information 718-1 and creates an electronic mail addressed to the mobile source node (step S1402). Next, the execution control unit 226
Stop the execution of the mobile agent (step S1
404), the code conversion unit 224 displays the agent information 71.
Is encoded (step S1406).

The electronic mail section 228 attaches the encoded agent information 71 to an electronic mail and sends it to the mobile source node (step S1408). If the mail is successfully transmitted, the platform unit 22 deletes the agent information 71 (step S1410),
Returning to the flow of FIG.

In the flow of FIG. 18, when the homing flag is not set (NO in step S1116),
The agent execution unit 220 determines the current time and arrival date / time 71.
6-3 are compared (step S1122). If it is within the stay deadline defined in the outing action table 716 (YES in step S1124), the agent execution unit 220 is executed.
Executes standard action processing (step S1126).
If the stay deadline has passed (N in step S1124)
O), display that the driver will depart for the next purpose (step S1128), and execute the departure action (step S11).
30).

Next, with reference to FIG. 22, the processing after returning to the mail will be described. As shown in the figure, the electronic mail section 228 receives the return mail (step S15).
02). Agent information 71 attached to the email
Is stored by the electronic mail unit 228 or a user operation (step S1504). Then, the execution control unit 226 restarts the execution of the mobile agent (step S1506). Therefore, the electronic pet safely returns to the movement source node from the movement destination node, and the user can enjoy the breeding game again. Note that the return email may be received by using the existing email software or may be executed as a function of the platform unit 22.

[0244]

According to the present invention, the electronic pet can move not only in a specific information terminal device but also to another information terminal device autonomously. Therefore, it is possible to increase the types of actions of various electronic pets. Further, depending on the action setting, in addition to the effect as a mere training game, for example, a function of distributing information and a function of a communication tool for bringing new encounters in human relationships can be realized.

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a diagram for explaining a concept of a configuration and a usage form in an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a functional configuration of an information terminal device.

FIG. 3 is a conceptual diagram for explaining a position information acquisition method.

FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of an outing action table.

FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a friend file.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating a functional configuration of a server.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart for explaining the flow of a breeding game process.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart for explaining the flow of agent menu processing.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart for explaining the flow of agent creation processing.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart for explaining the flow of care processing.

FIG. 11 is a flowchart for explaining the flow of outing action setting processing.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart for explaining the flow of departure processing.

FIG. 13 is a flowchart for explaining the flow of destination selection processing.

FIG. 14 is a flowchart for explaining the flow of lost child search processing.

FIG. 15 is a flowchart illustrating the flow of a search inquiry process.

FIG. 16 is a flowchart for explaining the flow of processing of the mobile agent.

FIG. 17 is a flowchart for explaining the flow of standard action processing.

FIG. 18 is a flowchart for explaining the flow of the “go to destination” action.

FIG. 19 is a flowchart for explaining the flow of arrival action processing.

FIG. 20 is a flowchart for explaining the flow of destination mail processing.

FIG. 21 is a flowchart for explaining the flow of mail homing processing.

FIG. 22 is a flowchart for explaining the flow of processing after returning to the mail.

FIG. 23 is a diagram showing an example of a game screen of a raising game.

FIG. 24 is a diagram showing an example of a setting screen of an outing action table.

FIG. 25 is a diagram showing an example of a screen display on the node A at the time of transmitting copy agent information from the moving destination selection processing.

FIG. 26 is a diagram showing an example of a reception screen.

FIG. 27 is a diagram showing an example of a reception success screen and a reception failure screen.

FIG. 28 is a diagram showing a display example of a travel destination mail sent to a mobile source node.

FIG. 29 is a diagram showing an example of a screen display of a greeting for achieving the purpose.

FIG. 30 is a diagram showing an example of a greeting screen when returning home.

FIG. 31 is a conceptual diagram showing a relationship between a mobile agent and a platform.

[Explanation of symbols]

2 PC 3A mobile phone 6 servers 8 communication lines 10 Operation part 20 Processing Department 22 Platform 220 Agent Execution Unit 221 Game operation unit 222 Launcher section 224 Code converter 226 Execution control unit 228 Email Department 23 Image generator 25 Communication controller 26 Location information acquisition unit 30 Display 40 sound output section 50 transceiver 60 Position information detector 70 Storage 71 Agent information 716 Outing action chart 718 Agent possession information 718-1 Breeder information 72 Platform information 78 Bluetooth (R) information 620 Processing unit 650 transceiver 670 storage unit 674 Email Program 676 Agent history information E Mobile Agent (Electronic Pet) Na-Nd ad hoc network

Claims (15)

[Claims] 1. An information terminal device having a predetermined communication means is autonomously moved via the communication means, and
Mobile agent information that causes a staying information terminal device to execute a given process, destination information of a mobile source information terminal device, achievement condition information indicating a given achievement condition, and character training parameters And a breeding means for displaying the breeding game of the character based on the breeding parameters described in the breeding information to the information terminal device during the stay and updating the breeding information. And mobile agent information including information for operating the achievement determining means for determining whether or not the achievement condition is satisfied based on the data stored in the information terminal device during the stay. 2. A detection means for detecting the current position of the own device,
Mobile agent information for autonomously moving between information terminal devices having a predetermined communication means via the communication means, and for causing the information terminal device in a stay to execute given processing, The destination information of the source information terminal device, the achievement condition information indicating a given achievement condition regarding the position, and the raising information indicating the raising parameter of the character, Whether or not the achievement condition is satisfied based on the training means for displaying and executing the training game for the character based on the training parameters described in the information and updating the training information, and the detection result by the detecting means. Mobile agent information including means for determining the achievement determining means and the function for operating. 3. The information terminal device according to claim 1 or 2, for the information terminal device during the stay, based on the breeding parameter described in the breeding information.
A mobile device that includes information for causing a determination unit that determines whether or not the device is movable, and is capable of moving to another information terminal device when the determination unit determines that the device is movable. -Agent information. 4. The information terminal device according to claim 1, further comprising moving destination condition information indicating a moving destination condition, said information terminal device being in a stay with another information terminal device via said communication means. To communicate,
If the other information terminal device determines whether or not the destination condition is satisfied, the movement determination unit determines whether the destination condition is satisfied by the movement determination unit, and moves to the other information terminal device. Mobile agent information, characterized in that it includes information for activating the means of transport and functions to operate. 5. The communication unit according to claim 1, wherein the communication unit is a short-range wireless unit for forming an ad hoc network, and autonomously moves between information terminal devices through the ad hoc network. Mobile agent information characterized by: 6. The communication means according to claim 1, wherein the communication means includes a short-distance wireless means for forming an ad hoc network and realizing the movement, and a net connection means connectable to the Internet. If the achievement terminal determines that the achievement condition is satisfied with respect to the information terminal device that is currently staying, the information terminal device that is a mobile source via the net connection unit based on the destination information. Mobile agent information, characterized in that it contains information for operating a transmitting means for transmitting broadcast information. 7. The information terminal device as a mobile source according to claim 6, when the achievement determining means determines that the achievement condition is satisfied, the mobile terminal moves to the information terminal device of the mobile source through the net connecting means based on the destination information. Mobile agent information, which includes information for 8. The function according to claim 6 or 7, wherein for the information terminal device during the stay, the specific information of the information terminal device during the stay is transmitted to a predetermined server through the net connection means. Mobile agent information, characterized in that it includes information for triggering. 9. The obtaining device according to claim 1, which obtains given data stored in the staying information terminal device with respect to the staying information terminal device, Holding means for holding the data acquired by the acquiring means during movement, and a possessed image display means for displaying an image in which the character possesses a given item when the acquiring means acquires the data, Mobile agent information, characterized in that it includes information for operating the. 10. The training game information according to claim 1, wherein the training means includes a plurality of training game information that can be executed according to a training parameter, and the training means includes the training information in the plurality of training game information. Mobile agent information, including information for executing training game information according to the described training parameters. 11. The information terminal device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein whether or not the information terminal device during the stay is a mobile source information terminal device based on the destination information. By determining
Return end determination means for determining whether or not returned, production means for giving a given production when it is determined by the return end determination means, and information for operating Mobile agent information to do. 12. A generation unit that generates the mobile agent information according to claim 1, and a communication unit for an information terminal device having a predetermined communication unit by calculation / control by a processor. Storage means for storing the mobile agent information received via the mobile agent information and / or the mobile agent information generated by the generation means; and suspension / resumption of execution of the mobile agent information stored in the storage means. Platform information that includes control means to control and information to operate. 13. The information terminal device according to claim 12, wherein, based on information included in the mobile agent information stored in the storage means, reporting means for generating and displaying report information related to the mobile agent information is provided. Platform information, including information to make it work. 14. An information storage medium storing the mobile agent information according to claim 1. 15. An information storage medium storing the platform information according to claim 12 or 13.