JP2004152196A - Functional object representation device - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a product, which is realized on the basis of multiple functional resources such as CTO (Customize To Order) and can make selection from the respective functional resources, for finely complying with a varied demand of a user and allowing the user to clearly and instinctively grasp effect and action based on the combination of the functional resources. <P>SOLUTION: In this system displaying the functional resource as a functional object in a virtual space, control data for controlling another functional object having a predetermined combination relationship with each functional object is embedded in each functional object. Only by combining a plurality of functional objects selected by the user, their action can be generated dynamically. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2004,JPO

Description

[0001]
TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION
According to the present invention, in a system that satisfies the specifications of required goods and services using a plurality of functional resources exhibiting a predetermined function, it is preferable to evaluate, for example, a combination of the plurality of functional resources in a virtual space. The present invention relates to a functional object representation device for performing the following.
[0002]
[Prior art]
Conventionally, in order to explain various functions and effects of functional resources that exert various functions by a plurality of combinations, a standard data list of each functional resource is presented or the operation when combined Is shown in a video or the like (for example, see Patent Document 1).
[0003]
Also, recently, it is called a CTO (Customize To Order) which allows a user to select from predetermined parts and optional items, such as a personal computer, and to purchase a customized product unique to the user. Systems are also known.
[0004]
However, a product such as the CTO, which is realized by a combination of a large number of functional resources and in which each functional resource can be selected, can respond to the diversifying demands of users in a detailed manner. It is difficult for the user to understand the characteristic function of the product. That is, even if a standard data list or the like of each functional resource as described above is presented, it is very difficult for the customer to clearly and intuitively grasp various effects and actions due to the combination of the functional resources. .
[0005]
On the other hand, a simple simulation of a large number of combinations of functional resources on a computer would require the development of a simulation program for each combination, which would be enormous and time-consuming. It also depends on sex and development.
[0006]
[Patent Document 1]
JP 2001-195438 A (Page 3-7, FIG. 1)
[0007]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
Accordingly, the present invention provides a system in which function resources are displayed as function objects in a virtual space. In the system, control data for controlling other function objects having a predetermined combination relationship is embedded in each function object. By preparing only the function objects that have been selected, the function can be dynamically generated simply by combining a plurality of function objects selected by the user, and a great deal of labor and labor is required to grasp them in advance. In order to make the system such as CTO more suitable by making it possible to quickly and dynamically generate and clearly grasp the effect of this kind of combination of functional resources that required is there.
[0008]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
That is, the functional object representation device according to the present invention directly or indirectly changes the function or form of the representation data for representing the functional resources as the functional objects in the virtual space and the other functional objects in a predetermined combination relationship. An object data storage unit in which object data having a structure having control data for causing or generating the object data is stored;
An input receiving unit that receives a selection input of a plurality of the functional objects by a user,
An automatic editing unit for extracting a function object that cannot be combined from among the plurality of function objects received by the input receiving unit, and setting a function object to be substituted for the extracted function object, or performing editing for changing the form thereof. When,
A control unit that interprets and executes control data of each functional object determined by the input receiving unit and the automatic editing unit, and exerts a function when the functional objects are combined in the virtual space. I do.
[0009]
Here, the “virtual space” is an area set to represent a functional object on a display, and is not limited to three-dimensional but includes two-dimensional ones. The “function” is a function or role provided in a certain thing, and the “form” is a shape, a color, a pattern, or a combination thereof. The functions and form changes include those that are represented as form changes that cannot occur in reality. The “functional resource” indicates an object having the above-described function, and includes an imaginary object in addition to an actual object. For example, machines and humans are functional resources.
[0010]
Such a product is realized by a combination of a large number of functional resources such as a CTO, and is capable of selectively responding to diversifying demands of users, that is, a feature of a product in which each functional resource can be selected. Since the effects of these combinations can be realized in a virtual space, it is easy for the user to understand the characteristic functions of the product. In addition, since control data for controlling other function objects having a predetermined combination relationship is embedded in each function object, if only independently defined and developed function objects are prepared, each function object can be created in the virtual space. Since the functional objects operate autonomously and interactively, there is no need to create a program for each combination as in the related art, and it is possible to flexibly cope with a new product, a function change, and the like. Furthermore, it is possible to automatically respond to inappropriate selection by the user.
[0011]
For example, in order to be able to change the function object set by the automatic editing unit or change an input error, the input receiving unit must accept a user's correction selection input of the functional object. Is preferred.
[0012]
In order to be able to make an order immediately upon selection of a functional object, the input receiving unit receives a user's input for selecting a functional object, and corresponds to the functional object received by the selection input. It is desirable that the system further includes an order arranging unit for arranging and outputting the functional resources to be ordered.
[0013]
As a specific mode, the object data between the functional objects further includes a name identifier assigned to the functional object, and a second name identifier of the functional object to be controlled, and the control unit includes: A function object having a predetermined combination relationship with the function object is extracted, and when the name identifier of the extracted function object and the second name identifier of the one function object satisfy a predetermined condition, the one The control data of the functional object is interpreted, and the extracted functional object is directly or indirectly controlled based on the interpretation to exert the function.
[0014]
Here, the “name” indicates the role assigned to the function object, and the name identifier may be simply a “rolling element” if the function is represented by a higher concept, such as a caster. However, it may be more concretely and structurally represented. For example, a “wheel and wheel rotation shaft and mounting plate” may be used.
[0015]
Of course, if the function object has a plurality of roles, a plurality of name identifiers may be included in one object data in parallel. A plurality of name identifiers having a hierarchical structure may be included so as to include from the upper concept to the lower concept.
[0016]
The above “satisfies the predetermined conditions” means that the name identifiers match each other, the name identifiers have a relationship between a superordinate concept and a subordinate concept, and if there are a plurality of name identifiers, any one of them matches. This is the case.
[0017]
Further, the "predetermined combination relationship" refers to a spatial positional relationship between the functional objects, a structural relationship between the functional objects, a role relationship between the functional objects, or a combination thereof. For example, the positional relationship is a relationship in which another functional object is located at a predetermined spatial position with respect to one functional object, or within a certain spatial position range. The structural relationship is a structural relationship that is not affected by the positional relationship, such as the relationship between an outlet and an electric light. Although they do not depend on the positional relationship, they have a structural relationship of being connected by an electric cable, and the electric lamp emits light by being supplied with power from an outlet. The role relationship is a relationship between roles of the function object. For example, when an instruction speaker for giving an instruction in Japanese and a human exist in a virtual space, only a person who has a role of understanding Japanese responds according to the instruction of the instruction speaker. In this way, it refers to the relationship of roles such as "Japanese generation" and "Japanese understanding".
[0018]
In this case, the automatic editing unit compares the name identifier with the second name identifier to extract and extract a plurality of functional objects that cannot be combined from the plurality of functional objects received by the input receiving unit. It is preferable to set a function object to substitute for the function object.
[0019]
Specifically, if the name identifiers match, if the name identifiers are in the relationship between the superordinate concept and the subordinate concept, if there are multiple name identifiers, and if any of them match, etc. It may be determined that the combination is possible, and otherwise, it may be determined that the combination is not possible.
[0020]
As another specific mode of the automatic editing unit, among the plurality of functional objects selected by the input receiving unit, the form of another functional object is changed based on control data of one functional object, and the other A function object that sets a function object to be substituted for the above function object can be cited.
[0021]
If the control data and the representation data belonging to the function object can be added, deleted, or changed independently of each other, the representation data and the function control data are independent of each other, so that the development and the like become easy. In addition, the function control data or the representation data can be independently transmitted and received between the functional object representation devices, and the dynamic change of the object data can be performed without imposing a large load on the communication.
[0022]
Furthermore, if the function control data has a structure including a plurality of unit control data that can be independently added, deleted, or changed, the function control data can be realized by a combination of quantized unit control data. Speeding up of design can be promoted. At this time, it is desirable to transmit and receive data for designating change, deletion, and addition of the control data, the representation data, or the unit control data, and to cause the control unit to interpret and execute the data.
[0023]
As a preferred embodiment from the viewpoint of development, the function control data may be in a text format.
[0024]
By the way, in order to extract a user's behavior and evaluate its characteristics, etc., an operation history of operating the device and a phenomenon executed in the virtual space are recorded in order to represent a functional resource as a functional object in the virtual space. It is desirable to have a recording unit that performs the recording.
[0025]
In addition, such a behavior of the user is, for example, an index for extracting a required function, an option or a function that arouses interest, and an index for an operation provider to watch and apply to marketing. Preferably, the apparatus further includes a recording data transmitting unit that transmits data recorded by the recording unit to the outside, and the device is used to represent functional resources as functional objects in a virtual space. An index data calculation unit that calculates an index for improving the efficiency of the user who operates the device based on the operation history of the operation and the phenomenon executed in the virtual space may be provided. In addition, in order to optimize the layout of the production line in the factory, the layout of office personnel and office equipment, robots and transfer machines that have control data and operate autonomously, and the personnel and office equipment are function objects And the index data calculation unit may be configured to calculate an index for evaluating the efficiency of the configured system based on a history of phenomena in which they are autonomously linked and operated in combination. . Further, if the index is configured to be calculated based on data on the use of the device, such as the frequency of use or the total use time within a certain period, the effect can be remarkable.
[0026]
Here, the "index" is a landmark for making a study that facilitates understanding of the function of the overall system and understanding of the features of the product, as well as the functions required for the product and the options and functions that the market is interested in. And a mark for judging the operational efficiency related to the configuration design of the whole system. In other words, a person or the device can appropriately perform a quantitative and qualitative evaluation of the entire system or the product by using an “index” that can evaluate usability, user behavior (user behavior), and system efficiency.
[0027]
Further, in order to preferably connect the functional objects in the virtual space, the functional object includes a joint described by data that can indicate a relative or absolute position in the virtual space. Wherein the plurality of functional objects in the virtual space are combined by combining joints provided in the respective functional objects, and in particular, the automatic editing unit is configured to perform the plurality of functions in the virtual space. When it is determined that the objects have a predetermined relationship, it is preferable that a plurality of functional objects having the predetermined relationship be combined using the joint.
[0028]
BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described.
[0029]
BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described.
[0030]
FIG. 1 is a device configuration diagram showing a CTO system in this embodiment. This CTO system is intended to allow a user to select a plurality of functional resources and receive the provision of a product or service customized for the user, and to store the functional resources in a functional object in a virtual space. A plurality of object representation devices P1 and a center computer P2 are connected to each other via a communication network such as the Internet so as to be capable of two-way communication.
[0031]
The object representation device P1 is used by a user, and is, for example, a general-purpose computer having a browse function. As shown in FIG. 2, this includes a CPU 101, an internal memory 102, an external storage device 103 such as an HDD, a communication interface 104 such as a modem for connecting to a communication network, a display 105, and input means 106 such as a mouse and a keyboard. Have.
[0032]
The center computer P2 is, for example, a general-purpose computer having a server function, and as shown in FIG. 3, a CPU 201, an internal memory 202, an external storage device 203 such as an HDD, and a communication interface such as a modem for connecting to a communication network. 204, a display 205, and input means 206 such as a mouse and a keyboard.
[0033]
In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 4, a predetermined program is installed in the browser of the object representation device P1 in the form of, for example, a plug-in, and the CPU 101 and the peripheral devices are made to cooperate based on the program. The object representation device P1 includes an object data storage unit D11, an input reception unit 11, an object data transmission / reception unit 12, an automatic editing unit 13, a control unit 14, a recording unit 15, a recording data storage unit 16, a recording data transmission unit 17, It functions as the order receiving part 18.
[0034]
On the other hand, a predetermined program is installed in the center computer P2, and the CPU 201 and peripheral devices cooperate with each other based on the program, so that the center computer P2 can transmit the object data transmitting / receiving unit 21, the object data storage unit D21, It is configured to function as a recording data receiving unit 22, an index data calculating unit 23, and the like.
[0035]
Each part will be described in detail.
[0036]
In the object representation device P1, the object data storage section D11 stores a plurality of object data. This object data, as shown in FIG. 5, indicates an object identifier for identifying the function object, representation data for representing the function resource as a function object in the virtual space, a role of the function object, and the like. A name identifier, one or more control data for initiating or generating a function of the self or another function object to be controlled upon occurrence of a predetermined event, and an internal or external It is provided with an associated second name identifier (control target name identifier) and an event identifier. As shown in FIG. 9, for example, some functional objects have only the representative data and the name identifier, and do not act on themselves. In addition, all the functional objects described below have a three-dimensional three-dimensional shape, but may of course be planar.
[0037]
For example, in the case of the suspension object 30 shown in FIG. 6, which is a functional object, the representation data includes the outline data of each of the part objects 31, 32, 33, and the structure that enables the movement of each of the part objects 31, 32, 33, 34,. A name identifier indicating a role assigned to the suspension object 30 that is pre-classified according to the structural data, which is composed of structural data indicating a body, or surface data indicating a pattern, a color, and the like as necessary. Associated internally or externally. This representation data can be obtained by using a three-dimensional measuring device, CG, CAD or the like capable of creating a three-dimensional shape. That is, the structure data indicates a structure in which the part objects 31, 32, 33, 34... Are linked via joints. As schematically shown in FIG. 16, the joint is described as a set of base point coordinates, a main axis direction vector component, and a handle direction vector component so as to indicate a relative or absolute position in the virtual space. Basically, it can be described with various degrees of freedom by defining "presence / absence" of the main axis vector and the handle vector and their attribute definitions. The parts objects 31, 32, 33, 34,... Are connected to each other with a defined degree of freedom. For example, in the suspension object 30, the rod pearl object 34 is connected to the cylinder part object 32 by a joint (not shown) therebetween so as to have a degree of freedom of sliding in one direction. By the way, the connection of each object group can be specified by drag and drop using a mouse, specified as an object group picked by a mouse, or selected from a list. In the present embodiment, when one functional object provided with a plurality of joints that can be connected in the virtual space and another functional object are connected in the virtual space, there are a plurality of joints in the object. In such a case, the joint of one functional object is connected to the joint of another functional object under the relative spatial designation joining condition of a plurality of objects designated to be joined closest to the joint of one functional object. In addition, the connection method in such a case is not limited to the above-described conditions, and the connection may be performed based on other conditions such as using a high-priority joint. On the other hand, the outline data is polygon data indicating a curve or a curved surface set at a required position in a three-dimensional local coordinate system defining the structure, and the surface data is a pattern to be pasted on the surface by texture mapping or the like. And colors. Note that the configuration of the object data is not limited to the above, and various other configurations are possible.
[0038]
The name identifier indicates a function of a higher concept of the role assigned to the function object. As for the suspension object 30, as shown in FIG. 8, the suspension object 30 has a plurality of (four) name identifiers, which form a hierarchical structure in relation to the superordinate concept and the subordinate concept. In addition, a single name identifier may be used. For example, a plurality of name identifiers may be defined in parallel with the functional object as long as the functional object can perform a plurality of functions.
[0039]
The control data can be added, deleted, or changed independently of the representation data, and triggers or generates a function of the self or another functional object to be controlled upon reception of the predetermined event specifying data. It is for. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 9, a structure composed of a combination of a plurality of unit control data hierarchically structured by associating one or more lower unit control data belonging to a lower hierarchy with the upper unit control data belonging to an upper hierarchy. Make The second name identifier (control target name identifier) and the event identifier will be described together with the description of the control data.
[0040]
In this embodiment, the hierarchy is three layers, and the control hierarchy, which is the highest hierarchy, includes a control blade, which is higher unit control data indicating a movement process of the object, for example, a process, an object identifier for identifying each object. And one or more of them.
[0041]
In the behavior hierarchy, which is an intermediate hierarchy, one or a plurality of behavior blades, which are intermediate unit control data relating to a motion rule obtained by further dividing the motion process of the object, are associated with each control blade.
[0042]
In the action hierarchy, which is the lowest hierarchy, one or more action blades, which are lower unit control data indicating more specific and physical movements with respect to the motion norms of the object, are associated with the respective behavior blades. .
[0043]
The second name identifier indicates a function of a higher concept of a role related to a function object to be controlled by the control data, and is internally attached to the control data in the present embodiment. Since the contents are the same as those of the name identifier, the description is omitted.
[0044]
The event identifier indicates an event condition under which the control data is driven. In the present embodiment, the event identifier is internally attached to the control data.
[0045]
An example will be described. As shown in FIG. 8, for example, the control blade in the suspension object 30 includes a blade name, an index of a behavior blade to be associated (which may include a path specification, a URL specification, and the like), the event identifier, and the control identifier. The name identifier of the object to be controlled by the blade can be finally described. In this example, the event identifier is “click” and the behavior index is “vibration”. The behavior blade index (lower unit control data index) is the content of the control blade (upper unit control index). Note that a plurality of behavior indexes can be described in combination, and a plurality of pairs of an event identifier and a behavior index can be described.
[0046]
In the behavior blade having the “vibration” index, for example, as shown in the figure, the index of the action blade to be associated (which may include path designation, URL designation, etc.) is shown. The action index in this example is two of “upward movement” and “downward movement”, but may be three or more, or may be one. Then, the combination of the plurality of action blade indexes indicates the content of the behavior blade.
[0047]
The action blade indicates, for example, the content of movement or the form change of the object. Here, movement refers to a change in the position and orientation of each part object or a set of those constituting the object, and a morphological change refers to a change in external data or texture of each part object, that is, a change in shape, color, or pattern. And does not include the movement. In the present embodiment, the motion content and the form change content are described separately, but these may not be distinguished. More specifically, for example, as shown in FIG. 10, following an identifier (for example, MOVE) indicating a motion, a motion index indicating a motion content of an object to be moved as necessary, The time data indicating the time for the movement is described as a pair. These may be plural. In the motion index, a posture change, a position change, and the like of the control target object are described. The specific description method may be appropriately specified, and it may be possible to specify movement or rotation to a predetermined point, or to specify the direction and movement distance, or the direction and rotation angle. You may. In addition, for example, a curve defined by various equations and a moving distance along the curve may be specified, or a combination of variables and the above-described specifying methods may be used. Furthermore, the start time and the end time may be described in the time data.
[0048]
In the figure, it is not necessary to integrally include each unit control data (blade) in this object data, and the unit control data (blade) may exist separately by designating, for example, an index, a URL, a path name and the like. Absent. The index of each blade is described in a text format so that the movement or change in form of each part object can be understood.
[0049]
Further, in this embodiment, each blade can include processing procedure identification information for causing the computer to recognize whether to perform parallel processing or sequential processing. For example, the above-described blade indexes are grouped by processing procedure identification information called PARALLELE so that the processing is performed simultaneously. In the case where sequential processing is designated, the processing is performed in the order of the description by enclosing it with processing procedure identification information called SEQUENCE or simply adding it together. Note that the processing procedure identification information is not limited to PARARELE or SEQUENCE, and various types of information such as REPEAT for repetition, RANDOM for random processing, and WAIT for specifying a waiting time can be used alone or in combination. I also do.
[0050]
The object data transmitting / receiving unit 12 transmits / receives the object data to / from another functional object representing device P1 or the center computer P2. The object to be transmitted / received is the whole or a part of the object data, for example, only the control data, only the unit control data, only the representation data, and the data described later for independently changing, deleting, and adding the control data and the representation data. Contains operation data.
[0051]
The input receiving unit 11 receives a selection input of a plurality of functional objects by a user. More specifically, although not shown, selection may be made from a pull-down menu or the like, or a plurality of functional objects may be displayed in a virtual space, and a desired one of these may be selected by clicking with a mouse. No problem. The input receiving unit 11 receives a user's input for correcting and selecting a functional object, and also receives a user's input for selecting and determining a functional object.
[0052]
The automatic editing unit 13 extracts a function object that cannot be combined from the plurality of function objects received by the input receiving unit 11, and sets a function object to substitute for the extracted function object. Specifically, in the present embodiment, by comparing the name identifier and the second name identifier, a plurality of functional objects received by the input receiving unit 11 that cannot be combined are extracted, and the extracted function object is extracted. A function object that substitutes for the object is set. In the present embodiment, when it is determined that a plurality of functional objects in the virtual space have a predetermined relationship, the automatic editing unit 13 combines the plurality of functional objects having the predetermined relationship using the joint. It is configured to have a function of causing Specifically, one functional object is selected in a certain virtual space by a method such as specifying by drag and drop using a mouse, specifying as a group of objects picked by a mouse, or selecting from a list. At this time, when there are a plurality of other functional objects in the virtual space having joints that can be combined with the joint of the one functional object, the joint of the most one functional object among the plurality of other functional objects Another functional object having a close joint is connected to one functional object. Of course, for example, the joints included in each functional object may be searched, and if there are no joints that are mutually connected, it may be determined that the combination is impossible.
[0053]
The control unit 14 interprets and executes control data of each function object determined by the input receiving unit 11 and the automatic editing unit 13, and causes a function obtained by combining these function objects to be exhibited in the virtual space. In the present embodiment, a function object having a predetermined combination relationship with one function object is extracted, and a name identifier of the extracted function object and a second name identifier of the one function object satisfy a predetermined condition. When it satisfies, the control data of the one functional object is interpreted, and based on the interpretation, the extracted functional object is controlled directly or indirectly to exert its function.
[0054]
Here, “satisfies the predetermined condition” means that in the present embodiment, any one of the plurality of name identifiers matches. In the present embodiment, the “predetermined combination relationship” refers to a spatial positional relationship between the functional objects.
[0055]
Specifically, as shown in FIG. 11, the control unit 14 should perform the parallel processing of the lowermost blade (the action blade which is the lower unit control data in the present embodiment) from the processing procedure identification information included in the acquired control data. They are interpreted and classified as kimono and those to be processed sequentially, and those to be processed in parallel serve as a reactor interpreter that accumulates in a separate instruction queue and those to be processed sequentially in the same instruction queue according to their processing order. The instruction queue is temporarily or statically set in a predetermined area such as the internal memory 102 or the external storage device 103.
[0056]
Thereafter, it also serves as a reactor for taking in the blade stored in the instruction queue via a loader. This reactor fetches the unit control data stored in the same instruction queue in the leading order, generates a motion or shape change based on the time information, and independently stores the blades stored in different instruction queues. It is something to take in.
[0057]
This reactor performs processing once per unit time, for example, 0.1 second. Based on time information (time data) included in the taken-in blade, the reactor moves or moves in a unit time. It is divided into time-division change control data that causes or generates a shape change. For example, a blade having time information of 2 seconds is divided into 20 time-division change control data, and a blade having time information of 3 seconds is divided into 30 time-division change control data. . Then, based on the target index included in each blade, a target to be moved or a shape to be changed is specified from the object data, and the time-division change control data is sequentially executed to determine the movement or the shape change of the object. Trigger or generate. In addition, the generation of the movement or the shape change may be such that the unit amount is sequentially added to the first time-division change control data, or a gradually large movement or the shape change amount is always based on the first position. You may give it. To this end, current state data (not shown) indicating the current state (position, posture, etc.) is generated in the object data.
[0058]
At this time, if there is time-division change control data generated from a plurality of unit control data stored in mutually different instruction queues, these are executed simultaneously in parallel in the processing for each unit time, Initiate or generate multiple movements or shape changes in parallel. For example, as shown in FIG. 12, when a plurality of blades A to D are present in parallel, some of the blades A to D may have a difference in processing start time determined from an identifier such as WAIT or a difference in required time of each blade. In this case, a plurality of motion or shape change processes are performed in parallel, and in some cases, a single motion or shape change process is performed.
[0059]
Further, in the present embodiment, the control unit 14 performs addition, change, or deletion of control data included in object data independently of the representation data, and performs addition, change, or deletion of each blade with another blade. It is done independently from. That is, as shown in FIG. 13, data operation data (blade operation data) which is similar in form to the control data but does not include a behavior blade or the like is provided. The blade operation data is associated with an object identifier, and includes a pair of an event identifier and data indicating addition, change, or deletion processing for each blade. If the data having the event identifier matching the detected event is the blade operation data, the controller 18 adds, changes, or deletes the blade in the corresponding control data according to the content. To do. Specifically, for example, when ADD is added, the specified blade is added, and when DEL is added, the specified blade is deleted. In the case of a change, ADD and DEL are used in combination. With this configuration, the control data and each blade can be added, changed, or deleted independently of each other and from the representation data.
[0060]
The recording unit 15 includes an operation history such as a user's selection input of a functional object received by the input receiving unit 11, a history of a functional object set by the automatic editing unit 13, and a functional object in the virtual space by the control unit 14. Is recorded in the internal memory 202 or the recording data storage unit 16 formed in a predetermined area of the external storage device 203.
[0061]
The recording data transmission unit 17 transmits recording data stored in the recording data storage unit 16 to the center computer P2, and is formed using the communication interface 104 and the like.
[0062]
The order arranging unit 18 performs an order arranging output of the functional resource corresponding to the functional object received by the selection decision input received by the input receiving unit 11 to the center computer P2, and includes the communication interface 104 and the like. It is formed by utilizing. It should be noted that an embodiment may be adopted in which an output is made to a printer (not shown) without using the communication interface 104, and then an order for functional resources is arranged. The order receiving destination is not limited to the center computer P2, but may be an appropriate destination.
[0063]
On the other hand, the object data transmitting / receiving unit 21 in the center computer P2 transmits and receives object data and the like to and from each functional object representing device P1.
[0064]
The object data storage D21 stores the object data.
[0065]
The recording data receiving unit 22 receives recording data transmitted from each of the functional object representation devices P1, and is formed using the communication interface 204 and the like.
[0066]
The index data calculation unit 23 calculates an index for improving the efficiency of the user who operates the apparatus based on the recording data received by the recording data receiving unit 22. More specifically, for example, if the content indicated by the recording data indicates that an operation such as pressing of a clear button is frequently performed, the previous operation is “complicated” for the user, “ It is expected that there is a high probability that "hesitant", "difficult" or "wrong". The index data calculation unit 23 is configured to calculate usability, which is an index indicating ease of use and intelligibility of the device, by obtaining a potential pattern or the like of such an operation history by data mining or the like. I have. The usability can be set as appropriate according to the embodiment, for example, by setting the usability in ten steps, outputting 10 when the usability is the highest, and outputting 1 when the usability is the lowest. The index to be calculated is not limited to usability. For example, if the recorded data is data relating to the use of the device, such as the frequency of use or the total time of use within a certain period, an index applicable to marketing is calculated. You can also.
[0067]
In this way, the index data calculation unit 23 serves as a marker for making a study that can smoothly understand the functions of the entire system and the features of the product based on the recording data received by the recording data receiving unit 22. The apparatus calculates an index by which the overall system or the product can be appropriately evaluated.
[0068]
An operation example of the present CTO system having such a configuration will be described in detail below with reference to FIG.
[0069]
In this example, an example of customizing a car by a user, particularly customizing a suspension, will be described.
[0070]
First, it is assumed that the user accesses a site (center computer P2) operated by an automobile company to purchase an automobile. As a result, the virtual space data for displaying the virtual space and each part object (functional object) of the vehicle are transmitted from the object data transmitting / receiving unit 21 of the center computer P2 to the functional object representation device P1 used by the user. This is received by the object data transmission / reception unit 12 of the object representation device P1 (step S01) and stored in the object data storage unit D11. As a result, for example, as shown in FIG. 7, the chassis object 50 and the plurality of suspension objects 30 are displayed (Step S02).
[0071]
When the user performs a picking operation with a mouse or the like to select a favorite suspension object 30 from the plurality of suspension objects 30, the input receiving unit 11 determines that the suspension object (for example, the hard suspension A) is selected. This is accepted (step S03).
[0072]
Thereafter, when the user moves the suspension object 30 to a predetermined position of the chassis object 50 by a drag operation or the like (step S04), the automatic editing unit firstly causes the second name identifier of the suspension object 30 and the name identifier of the chassis object 50 to be moved. It is determined whether the selected suspension object 30 can be combined with the chassis object 50 (step S05). If it is determined that the combination is possible, the joints of the functional objects are connected to each other (step S06). If not, a message to that effect is displayed and another mountable suspension object 30 is automatically selected (step S07). ), The joints of the respective functional objects are connected to each other (step S06).
[0073]
Next, when the suspension object 30 selected or replaced by the user is provisionally determined in this manner, the control unit 14 waits for the next click operation (event) by the user (step S08). Is interpreted, and the chassis object 50 to be controlled is controlled (step S09).
[0074]
In this case, the chassis object 50 vibrates up and down as shown in FIG. 7, and the user can visually confirm the vibration effect of the suspension object. Further, by attaching another suspension object, the vibration effect of the suspension object can be immediately confirmed.
[0075]
Note that the suspension object 30 must also be deformed when vibrating. For this purpose, the suspension object 30 further has function control data (not shown) for deforming itself and exerting its function and designating itself as a control target.
[0076]
On the other hand, when the user performs a correction selection operation in order to redo the selection of each of the functional objects, the input receiving unit 11 receives the operation (step S10), and through the same procedure as described above, operates according to the combination of the selected functional objects. The effect is triggered.
[0077]
Thereafter, when the user performs a selection decision input of a functional object by an input field appropriately displayed on the screen or a predetermined operation, the input accepting unit 11 accepts the decision input (step S11). Then, the order arranging unit 18 performs an order arranging output of the functional resource corresponding to the functional object accepted by the selection decision input (step S12).
[0078]
Further, in the present embodiment, when step S12 is completed, the recording data in which the operation history in steps S03 to S12 is recorded is transmitted to the center computer P2 (step S13).
[0079]
Next, the operation of the center computer P2 will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG.
[0080]
First, if the user has access to this site (the center computer P2) to purchase a car (step T01), the object data transmitting / receiving unit 21 converts the object data stored in the object storage unit D21 into an object representation device. Transmit to P1 (step T02). When the recording data is received from the object representation device P1 (step T03), based on the recording data, the index data calculation unit 23 can smoothly understand the functions of the entire system and the characteristics of the product. An index is calculated (step T04).
[0081]
As described above, according to the present embodiment, in addition to the features of the CTO, that is, features that can finely respond to the diversifying demands of users, the effects of the combination thereof can be realized in real time in a virtual space. The user can easily and intuitively understand the characteristic functions of the product that are difficult to grasp. Further, the automatic editing function of the automatic editing unit 13 can automatically respond to inappropriate selection by the user.
[0082]
On the other hand, from the point of view of the operator of the CTO, control data for controlling other functional objects having a predetermined combinational relationship is embedded in each functional object, so that only independently defined and developed functional objects are prepared. In this case, since each functional object operates autonomously and interactively in the virtual space, it is not necessary to create a program for each combination as in the related art, and it is possible to flexibly cope with a new product, a function change, and the like. In particular, in the present embodiment, the control data, unit control data, and representation data included in the functional object can be added, deleted, and changed independently of each other, so that the effect is remarkable.
[0083]
Note that the present invention is not limited to the above embodiment, and various modifications are possible.
[0084]
For example, in the above-described embodiment, the automatic editing unit extracts a function object that cannot be combined and changes the function object to another one. However, among the plurality of function objects selected by the input receiving unit, The form of another function object may be changed based on the control data of the function object, and a function object to be substituted for the other function object may be set.
[0085]
Specifically, a case in which the attachment attached to the arm tip in the arm crane is replaced will be described as an example. In reality, in order to install a crusher, it is necessary to change the arm to a thick one due to strength problems. When this is performed in a virtual space, the function control data of the bucket object BK and the crusher object CR may control the form of the attached arm object AM. That is, as shown in FIG. 17, when the bucket object BK is initially attached to the arm object AM, the form of the arm object AM is defined by the function control data of the bucket object BK, and the bucket object BK is replaced with the crusher object CR. In this case, as shown in FIG. 18, the arm object AM can be made thicker by the function control data.
[0086]
The functional objects that cannot be combined change depending on which of the selected functional objects is to be preferentially left. To cope with this, it is preferable to provide a priority function object setting unit that receives a setting of a priority function object. The setting of the function object to be prioritized may be performed by accepting a user's input, or may be automatically set with the essential object as a starting point if the essential function object is determined.
[0087]
Further, the object representation device may be a single device that is not connected to a communication network.
[0088]
Further, in the present embodiment, the automatic editing unit 13 is configured to connect the functional objects having a relation to be combined. However, for example, when one functional object is selected in a certain virtual space, The one function object transmits a control target name identifier possessed by the one function object itself to all other function objects in the virtual space, and another function driven by this control target name identifier An embodiment is also conceivable in which an object operates itself or one functional object to perform connection based on control data described in a control blade or the like.
[0089]
In the present embodiment, the recording data receiving unit 22 and the index data calculating unit 23 are provided in the center computer P2. In the center computer P2, based on the recording data received by the recording data receiving unit 22, the index data calculating unit 23 Although an index for improving the efficiency of a user who operates the apparatus is configured to be calculated, the index data calculation unit 23 is provided in the functional object representation device P1, and the index is calculated and then transmitted to the center computer P2. Is also conceivable.
[0090]
In addition, the present invention requires at least the requirements described in claim 1, and the functions and the like added thereto can be variously changed without departing from the gist of the present invention.
[0091]
【The invention's effect】
As described in detail above, according to the present invention, a feature of a product realized by a combination of a large number of functional resources such as a CTO and in which each functional resource can be selected, that is, a demand for diversifying users. While it is possible to respond finely, it is possible to realize the function of the combination in a virtual space, so that it is easy for the user to understand the characteristic function of the product. In addition, since control data for controlling other function objects having a predetermined combination relationship is embedded in each function object, if only independently defined and developed function objects are prepared, each function object can be created in the virtual space. Since the functional objects operate autonomously and interactively, there is no need to create a program for each combination as in the related art, and it is possible to flexibly cope with a new product, a function change, and the like. Furthermore, it is possible to automatically respond to inappropriate selection by the user.
[0092]
Further, the efficiency of the user who operates the device is improved based on the operation history of operating the device and the recorded data that records the phenomenon executed in the virtual space in order to represent the functional resource as a functional object in the virtual space. By calculating the index, it is possible to smoothly understand the functions of the entire system and the features of the product. For example, the entire system can be operated and evaluated easily. In addition, it is possible to appropriately evaluate the user's interests, preferences, and the like, and it is also possible to evaluate whether or not there is a problem in the function design by usability indicating ease of use and understandability.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is an overall device configuration diagram according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 2 is an internal device configuration diagram of the functional object representation device according to the embodiment;
FIG. 3 is an internal device configuration diagram of a center computer in the embodiment.
FIG. 4 is a functional block diagram showing the overall functional configuration of the system according to the embodiment;
FIG. 5 is a data structure diagram showing an object data structure in the embodiment.
FIG. 6 is an object diagram showing functional objects in the embodiment.
FIG. 7 is an object diagram showing functional objects in the embodiment.
FIG. 8 is a data explanatory view showing an example of object data in the embodiment.
FIG. 9 is a data explanatory diagram showing another example of the object data in the embodiment.
FIG. 10 is a data structure diagram showing a structure of control data in the embodiment.
FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a process related to inducing or generating a motion or the like in the embodiment.
FIG. 12 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a flow of inducing or generating a motion or the like in the embodiment.
FIG. 13 is a data explanatory diagram showing a description example of blade operation data in the embodiment.
FIG. 14 is an exemplary flowchart showing the operation of the functional object representation device according to the embodiment;
FIG. 15 is an exemplary flowchart showing the operation of the center computer in the embodiment.
FIG. 16 is a joint explanatory diagram for explaining the joint according to the embodiment;
FIG. 17 is an object diagram showing a functional object according to another embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 18 is an object diagram showing functional objects in the embodiment.
[Explanation of symbols]
P1 ... Functional object representation device
P2: Center computer
D11: Object data storage unit
11 ・ ・ ・ Input reception unit
12 ... object data transmission / reception unit
13: Automatic editing unit
14 ... Control unit
15 Recording unit
17 ・ ・ ・ Recording data transmitting unit
18 ・ ・ ・ Order Arrangement Department
23: Index data calculation unit

Claims (18)

It has representation data for representing a functional resource as a functional object in a virtual space, and control data for directly or indirectly inducing or generating a function or form change of another functional object in a predetermined combination relationship. An object data storage unit in which object data of the structure is stored;
An input receiving unit that receives a selection input of a plurality of the functional objects by a user,
If a plurality of functional objects received by the input receiving unit are not possible to be combined, an automatic editing unit that sets a functional object to substitute for the functional object or changes its form,
A control unit for interpreting and executing control data of each function object determined by the input receiving unit and the automatic editing unit, and exerting a function when the function objects are combined in the virtual space; . 2. The functional object representation device according to claim 1, wherein the input receiving unit receives a user's correction selection input of a functional object. The input receiving unit receives a selection decision input of a functional object by a user, and further includes an order placement unit that performs order placement output of a functional resource corresponding to the functional object accepted by the selection decision input. 3. The functional object representation device according to any one of 1 to 2. The object data further includes a name identifier assigned to the function object, and a second name identifier of the function object to be controlled,
The control unit extracts a function object having a predetermined combination relationship with one function object, and a name identifier of the extracted function object and a second name identifier of the one function object satisfy a predetermined condition. 4. The functional object representation according to claim 1, wherein when satisfied, the control data of the one functional object is interpreted, and the extracted functional object is directly or indirectly controlled based on the interpretation. apparatus. The automatic editing unit compares the name identifier and the second name identifier to extract an uncombinable one of the plurality of functional objects received by the input receiving unit, and substitute the extracted functional object for the extracted one. 5. The function object representation device according to claim 4, wherein the function object is changed to a function object to perform. A function in which the automatic editing unit changes the form of another function object based on control data of one of the plurality of function objects selected by the input reception unit, and substitutes the function object for the other function object 5. The functional object representation device according to claim 1, wherein the function object is set. The functional object representation device according to claim 4, wherein the object data has a plurality of parallel name identifiers. The functional object representation device according to claim 4, wherein the object data has a plurality of name identifiers having a hierarchical structure. 9. The function object representation device according to claim 1, wherein the control data and the representation data belonging to the function object can be added, deleted, or changed independently of each other. 10. The functional object representation device according to claim 1, wherein the control data has a structure including a plurality of unit control data that can be independently added, deleted, or changed. 11. The functional object representation device according to claim 1, wherein the control data is in a text format. The functional object representation device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the control data has a hierarchical structure in which one or a plurality of lower unit control data belonging to a lower hierarchy are associated with an upper unit control data belonging to an upper hierarchy. 13. The apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a recording unit that records an operation history of operating the device and a phenomenon executed in the virtual space in order to represent the functional resource as a functional object in the virtual space. Or a functional object representation device. 14. The functional object representation device according to claim 13, further comprising a recording data transmitting unit that transmits data recorded by the recording unit to the outside. Index data calculation for calculating an index for improving the efficiency of a user who operates the device based on an operation history of operating the device and a phenomenon executed in the virtual space to represent the functional resource as a functional object in the virtual space 15. The functional object representation device according to claim 1, further comprising a unit. 16. The functional object representation device according to claim 15, wherein the index is calculated based on data on use of the device, such as a use frequency or a total use time within a certain period. The functional object includes a joint described by data that can indicate a relative or absolute position in the virtual space, and a combination of a plurality of functional objects in the virtual space is assigned to each functional object. 17. The functional object representation device according to claim 1, wherein the function object is configured to be connected by a joint provided. When the automatic editing unit determines that the plurality of functional objects in the virtual space have a predetermined relationship, the automatic editing unit combines the plurality of functional objects having the predetermined relationship using the joint. 18. The functional object representation device according to item 17.

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