JP2019021324A - Program executed by computer providing virtual space, method and information processing device executing program - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide a technique enabling a photograph (image) generated by photographing in a virtual space to be identified through a method with improved simplicity.SOLUTION: A program causes a computer to execute the steps to: generate an image corresponding to an image area of a camera object (S2025); arrange a monitor object capable of displaying the generated image in a virtual space (S2035); arrange an operation object which moves in accordance with operation of a computer user in the virtual space (S2015); and arrange a photograph object representing the image displayed on the monitor object in the virtual space on the basis of first operation with respect to the monitor object by the operation object (S2050).SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 20

Description

  This disclosure relates to a process for controlling a virtual space, and more particularly, to a display process for an image generated by photographing a virtual space.

  A technique for providing a virtual space using a head-mounted device (HMD) is known. Various technologies have been proposed to enrich the user experience in the virtual space.

  For example, Non-Patent Document 1 discloses a technique for photographing a subject such as an avatar using an instant camera arranged in a virtual space. Non-Patent Document 2 discloses a technique for photographing an avatar in which a virtual space is arranged with a virtual camera.

“Business media that creates the future of VRInside VR Dig4 Description”, [online], [Search June 13, 2017], Internet <URL: http://bank.vrinside.jp/review/dig-4-destruction/ > “Oculus shows VR selfie stick and avatar demo”, [online], [Search June 13, 2017], Internet <URL: http://jp.techcrunch.com/2016/04/14/ Vr-selfie-stick /〉

  The technique disclosed in Non-Patent Document 1 employs a configuration in which a photographic object generated by photographing in a virtual space is arranged at a position where photographing has been performed. Therefore, every time the user performs shooting in the virtual space, the user must acquire the generated photo object and check the content of the photo.

  On the other hand, the technique disclosed in Non-Patent Document 2 employs a configuration in which a photographic object is arranged at a predetermined position in a virtual space. When the user moves to a predetermined position, the user can confirm one or more generated photographic objects. However, some users may not know where the photo object is placed. In such a case, the user has to find the arrangement position of the photo object in the virtual space. Therefore, there is a need for a technique that can confirm a photograph (image) generated by photographing in a virtual space by an easier method.

  The present disclosure has been made in order to solve the above-described problems, and an object in one aspect is to provide a technique capable of confirming a photograph (image) generated by photographing in a virtual space by an easier method. It is to be.

  According to an embodiment, a program that is executed on a computer that provides a virtual space is provided. This program displays on a computer a step of defining a virtual space, a step of placing a camera object having a photographing function in the virtual space, a step of generating an image corresponding to the shooting range of the camera object, and the generated image A monitor object based on a first operation on the monitor object by the operation object, a step of arranging a possible monitor object in the virtual space, a step of arranging an operation object moving in response to a user operation of the computer in the virtual space, And a step of arranging a photographic object representing a displayed image in a virtual space.

  The above and other objects, features, aspects and advantages of the disclosed technical features will become apparent from the following detailed description of the invention which is to be understood in connection with the accompanying drawings.

It is FIG. (1) for demonstrating the technical idea of this indication. It is FIG. (2) for demonstrating the technical idea of this indication. It is a figure showing the outline of a structure of a HMD system. It is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware constitutions of the computer according to a certain situation. It is a schematic diagram which represents notionally the uvw visual field coordinate system set to HMD according to an embodiment. It is a schematic diagram which represents notionally the one aspect | mode which represents the virtual space according to a certain embodiment. It is the schematic diagram showing the head of the user who wears HMD according to an embodiment from the top. It is a figure showing the YZ cross section which looked at the visual recognition area from the X direction in virtual space. It is a figure showing the XZ cross section which looked at the visual recognition area from the Y direction in virtual space. FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a computer according to an embodiment as a modular configuration. It is a figure for demonstrating the process which tracks a hand. It is a figure for demonstrating operation | movement of a tracking module. It is a figure showing an example of the data structure of tracking data. It is a flowchart showing an example of the process which an HMD system performs. In a network, it is a schematic diagram showing the condition where several HMD provides a virtual space to several users, respectively. It is a figure showing the visual field image which a user visually recognizes in FIG. It is a figure explaining the hardware constitutions and module constitution of a server. It is a figure for demonstrating the process which produces | generates a photographic image by imaging | photography in virtual space. It is a figure showing a mode that a user confirms (views) and manages the photograph image produced | generated on virtual space. It is a flowchart showing the process which operates a monitor object and arrange | positions a photography object in virtual space. It is a figure showing an example of the data structure of photograph DB which a server hold | maintains. It is a flowchart showing the process in which a computer and a server cooperate and submit a photograph image to SNS. It is a figure showing an example of the data structure of user DB. It is a figure for demonstrating operation with respect to the photograph object by an operation object. It is a flowchart showing an example of the process which a server receives evaluation with respect to a photographic image. It is a figure for demonstrating the process which deletes a photography object. It is FIG. (1) for demonstrating the process which produces | generates a psychic photograph. It is FIG. (2) for demonstrating the process which produces | generates a psychic photograph. It is a figure for demonstrating the process which produces | generates the photograph image containing the avatar object of the display mode different from the avatar object arrange | positioned in virtual space.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of this technical idea will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In the following description, the same parts are denoted by the same reference numerals. Their names and functions are also the same. Therefore, detailed description thereof will not be repeated. Each embodiment described below may be combined appropriately and appropriately.

[Technology]
FIG. 1 is a diagram (part 1) for explaining the technical idea of the present disclosure. Referring to FIG. 1, a computer 200 provides a virtual space 2 to an HMD (Head-Mounted Device) 110 worn by a user 190. The computer 200 expands the panoramic image 22 in the virtual space 2.

  The computer 200 arranges an avatar object 1500 corresponding to the user 190 in the virtual space 2. The computer 200 further displays an image corresponding to the field of view of the avatar object 1500 on the monitor of the HMD 110. Thereby, the user 190 visually recognizes the panoramic image 22. In addition, the computer 200 places a camera object 1810 having a photographing function in the virtual space 2.

  The avatar object 1500 moves according to the operation of the user 190. The user 190 can photograph the virtual space 2 (the panoramic image 22 developed) by operating the camera object 1810 with the avatar object 1500.

  In the example shown in FIG. 1, the shooting range 1830 of the camera object 1810 includes a flower 1840 that is part of the panoramic image 22. In this state, the user 190 performs an operation for photographing with the camera object 1810. The computer 200 generates an image corresponding to the shooting range 1830 based on the operation. Hereinafter, an image generated by shooting in a virtual space is also referred to as a “photo image”.

  FIG. 2 is a diagram (part 2) for explaining the technical idea of the present disclosure. In the state of FIG. 2, the user 190 is viewing the view image 300 developed on the monitor of the HMD 110.

  The field-of-view image 300 includes a hand object 1510 corresponding to the hand portion of the avatar object 1500 and a monitor object 1910. The computer 200 moves the hand object 1510 according to the operation of the user 190.

  The monitor object 1910 is configured to display a photographic image. In the example of FIG. 2, the monitor object 1910 displays a flower 1840.

  In addition, the monitor object 1910 receives an operation by the hand object 1510. In the example shown in FIG. 2, the user 190 slides the hand object 1510 in the direction of the arrow 1940 (upward) while the hand object 1510 and the monitor object 1910 are in contact with each other. Accordingly, the computer 200 receives an upward slide operation (including a flick operation) on the monitor object 1910 by the hand object 1510.

  The computer 200 arranges the photographic object 1945 representing the photographic image (flower 1840) displayed on the monitor object 1910 in the virtual space 2 based on the reception of the above operation. More specifically, the computer 200 arranges the photographic object 1945 in the slide direction (the direction of the arrow 1940) with respect to the monitor object 1910.

  In addition, the computer 200 executes processing for managing a photographic image displayed on the monitor object 1910 based on an operation on the monitor object 1910 by the hand object 1510. Processing for managing photographic images includes, for example, processing for deleting photographic images, processing for switching photographic images displayed on the monitor object 1910 to other photographic images among a plurality of photographic images generated in the past, and the like. including.

  Based on the above, the user 190 can easily check one or more photographic images using the monitor object 1910. Further, the user 190 can manage photographic images using the monitor object 1910.

  Further, the user 190 can place a photographic object representing a photographic image displayed on the monitor object 1910 in the virtual space 2. For example, the user 190 places a photographic object representing a photographic image that he / she likes among a plurality of photographic images in the virtual space 2. Thereby, when the user 190 is communicating with other users on the virtual space 2, the user can easily share a photograph image that he / she likes with other users. The user 190 can promote communication with other users by using the photo object (photo image represented by the photo object) arranged in the virtual space 2 as a hot topic. Hereinafter, a specific configuration and control for realizing such processing will be described.

[Configuration of HMD system]
The configuration of the HMD system 100 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 3 shows an outline of the configuration of the HMD system 100. The HMD system 100 is provided as a home system or a business system.

  The HMD system 100 includes HMD sets 105A, 105B, 105C, and 105D, a network 19, and a server 150. Each of the HMD sets 105A, 105B, 105C, and 105D is configured to be able to communicate with the server 150 via the network 19. Hereinafter, the HMD sets 105A, 105B, 105C, and 105D are collectively referred to as the HMD set 105. The number of HMD sets 105 constituting the HMD system 100 is not limited to four, and may be three or less or five or more.

  The HMD set 105 includes an HMD 110, an HMD sensor 120, and a computer 200. The HMD 110 includes a monitor 112, a camera 116, a speaker 118, a microphone 119, and a gaze sensor 140. In another aspect, the HMD 110 further includes a sensor 114.

  In one aspect, the computer 200 can be connected to the Internet and other networks 19, and can communicate with the server 150 and other computers (for example, computers of other HMD sets 105) connected to the network 19.

  The HMD 110 may be worn on the head of the user 190 and provide a virtual space to the user 190 during operation. More specifically, the HMD 110 displays a right-eye image and a left-eye image on the monitor 112, respectively. When each eye of the user 190 visually recognizes each image, the user 190 can recognize the image as a three-dimensional image based on the parallax of both eyes. The HMD 110 may include both a so-called head mounted display including a monitor and a head mounted device on which a terminal having a smartphone or other monitor can be attached.

  The monitor 112 is realized as, for example, a non-transmissive display device. In one aspect, the monitor 112 is disposed on the main body of the HMD 110 so as to be positioned in front of both eyes of the user 190. Therefore, the user 190 can immerse in the virtual space when viewing the three-dimensional image displayed on the monitor 112. In an embodiment, the monitor 112 may be realized as a liquid crystal monitor or an organic EL (Electro Luminescence) monitor included in a so-called smartphone or other information display terminal.

  In another aspect, the monitor 112 can be realized as a transmissive display device. In this case, the HMD 110 may be an open type such as a glasses type instead of a sealed type that covers the eyes of the user 190 as shown in FIG. The transmissive monitor 112 can temporarily function as a non-transmissive display device by adjusting the transmittance. Further, the monitor 112 may include a configuration in which a part of an image constituting the virtual space and the real space are displayed simultaneously. For example, the monitor 112 may display an image of the real space taken by a camera mounted on the HMD 110, or may make the real space visible by setting a part of the transmittance high.

  In one aspect, the monitor 112 may include a sub-monitor for displaying an image for the right eye and a sub-monitor for displaying an image for the left eye. In another aspect, the monitor 112 may be configured to display a right-eye image and a left-eye image together. In this case, the monitor 112 includes a high-speed shutter. The high-speed shutter operates so that an image for the right eye and an image for the left eye can be displayed alternately so that the image is recognized only by one of the eyes.

  The camera 116 is configured to be able to acquire depth information of an object. As an example, the camera 116 acquires depth information of an object according to a TOF (Time Of Flight) method. As another example, the camera 116 acquires depth information of an object according to a pattern irradiation method. In some embodiments, the camera 116 may be a stereo camera that can capture an object from two or more different directions. Further, the camera 116 may be an infrared camera that is invisible to humans. The camera 116 is attached to the HMD 110 and photographs a part of the user 190's body. Hereinafter, as an example, the camera 116 captures the hand of the user 190. The camera 116 outputs the acquired depth information of the hand of the user 190 to the computer 200.

  The speaker 118 converts the audio signal into audio and outputs it to the user 190. The microphone 119 converts the utterance of the user 190 into an audio signal that is an electrical signal and outputs it to the computer 200. In another aspect, HMD 110 may be configured to include an earphone instead of speaker 118.

  The HMD sensor 120 detects the position and inclination of the HMD 110. In this case, the HMD 110 includes a plurality of light sources (not shown). Each light source is realized by, for example, an LED (Light Emitting Diode) that emits infrared rays. The HMD sensor 120 has a known position tracking function for detecting the light emitted from each light source and detecting the position and orientation of the HMD 110.

  In other aspects, HMD sensor 120 may be realized by a camera. In this case, the HMD sensor 120 can detect the position and inclination of the HMD 110 by executing image analysis processing using image information of the HMD 110 output from the camera.

  In still another aspect, the computer 200 may be configured to detect the inclination of the HMD 110 based on the output of the sensor 114 instead of the output of the HMD sensor 120. The sensor 114 is realized by, for example, an angular velocity sensor, an acceleration sensor, a geomagnetic sensor, or a combination of these sensors. The computer 200 detects the inclination of the HMD 110 based on the output of the sensor 114. As an example, when the sensor 114 is an angular velocity sensor, the angular velocity sensor detects angular velocities around the three axes of the HMD 110 in real space over time. The computer 200 calculates the inclination of the HMD 110 by calculating temporal changes of the angles around the three axes of the HMD 110 based on the angular velocities.

  The gaze sensor 140 detects the gaze of the user 190's right eye and left eye. The line-of-sight detection is realized by, for example, a known eye tracking function. The gaze sensor 140 is realized by a sensor having the eye tracking function. In one aspect, the gaze sensor 140 preferably includes a right eye sensor and a left eye sensor. The gaze sensor 140 may be, for example, a sensor that irradiates the right eye and the left eye of the user 190 with infrared light and detects the rotation angle of each eyeball by receiving reflected light from the cornea and iris with respect to the irradiated light. . The gaze sensor 140 can detect the line of sight of the user 190 based on each detected rotation angle.

  Server 150 may send a program to computer 200. In another aspect, the server 150 may communicate with other computers 200 for providing virtual reality to HMDs used by other users. For example, when a plurality of users play a participatory game in an amusement facility, each computer 200 communicates a signal based on each user's operation with another computer 200, and a plurality of users are common in the same virtual space. Allows you to enjoy the game.

[Hardware configuration]
A computer 200 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of computer 200 according to an aspect. The computer 200 includes a processor 10, a memory 11, a storage 12, an input / output interface 13, and a communication interface 14 as main components. Each component is connected to the bus 15.

  The processor 10 executes a series of instructions included in the program stored in the memory 11 or the storage 12 based on a signal given to the computer 200 or based on the establishment of a predetermined condition. In one aspect, the processor 10 is realized as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), an MPU (Micro Processor Unit), an FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array), or other device.

  The memory 11 temporarily stores programs and data. The program is loaded from the storage 12, for example. The data includes data input to the computer 200 and data generated by the processor 10. In one aspect, the memory 11 is realized as a RAM (Random Access Memory) or other volatile memory.

  The storage 12 holds programs and data permanently. The storage 12 is realized as, for example, a ROM (Read-Only Memory), a hard disk device, a flash memory, and other nonvolatile storage devices. The programs stored in the storage 12 include a program for providing a virtual space in the HMD system 100, a simulation program, a game program, a user authentication program, and a program for realizing communication with another computer 200. The data stored in the storage 12 includes data and objects for defining the virtual space.

  In another aspect, the storage 12 may be realized as a removable storage device such as a memory card. In still another aspect, a configuration using a program and data stored in an external storage device may be used instead of the storage 12 built in the computer 200. According to such a configuration, for example, in a scene where a plurality of HMD systems 100 are used as in an amusement facility, it is possible to update programs and data collectively.

  In some embodiments, the input / output interface 13 communicates signals between the HMD 110 and the HMD sensor 120. In an aspect, the sensor 114, the camera 116, the speaker 118, and the microphone 119 included in the HMD 110 can communicate with the computer 200 via the input / output interface 13 of the HMD 110. In one aspect, the input / output interface 13 is implemented using a USB (Universal Serial Bus), a DVI (Digital Visual Interface), an HDMI (registered trademark) (High-Definition Multimedia Interface), or other terminals. The input / output interface 13 is not limited to that described above.

  The communication interface 14 is connected to the network 19 and communicates with other computers (for example, the server 150) connected to the network 19. In one aspect, the communication interface 14 is realized as, for example, a local area network (LAN) or other wired communication interface, or a wireless communication interface such as WiFi (Wireless Fidelity), Bluetooth (registered trademark), NFC (Near Field Communication), or the like. Is done. The communication interface 14 is not limited to the above.

  In one aspect, the processor 10 accesses the storage 12, loads one or more programs stored in the storage 12 into the memory 11, and executes a series of instructions included in the program. The one or more programs may include an operating system of the computer 200, an application program for providing a virtual space, game software that can be executed in the virtual space, and the like. The processor 10 sends a signal for providing a virtual space to the HMD 110 via the input / output interface 13. The HMD 110 displays an image on the monitor 112 based on the signal.

  In the example illustrated in FIG. 4, the configuration in which the computer 200 is provided outside the HMD 110 is illustrated. However, in another aspect, the computer 200 may be incorporated in the HMD 110. As an example, a portable information communication terminal (for example, a smartphone) including the monitor 112 may function as the computer 200.

  Further, the computer 200 may be configured to be used in common for a plurality of HMDs 110. According to such a configuration, for example, the same virtual space can be provided to a plurality of users, so that each user can enjoy the same application as other users in the same virtual space.

  In an embodiment, in the HMD system 100, a global coordinate system is preset. The global coordinate system has three reference directions (axes) parallel to the vertical direction in the real space, the horizontal direction orthogonal to the vertical direction, and the front-rear direction orthogonal to both the vertical direction and the horizontal direction. In the present embodiment, the global coordinate system is one of the viewpoint coordinate systems. Therefore, the horizontal direction, the vertical direction (up-down direction), and the front-rear direction in the global coordinate system are defined as an x-axis, a y-axis, and a z-axis, respectively. More specifically, in the global coordinate system, the x axis is parallel to the horizontal direction of the real space. The y axis is parallel to the vertical direction of the real space. The z axis is parallel to the front-rear direction of the real space.

  In one aspect, the sensor 114 is configured by a combination of a triaxial angular velocity sensor and a triaxial acceleration sensor. The computer 200 calculates an angle with respect to the reference direction (for example, the gravity (vertical) direction) of the HMD 110 based on the outputs of these sensors. Thereby, the computer 200 can acquire the inclination of the HMD 110 in the global coordinate system.

  In another aspect, HMD sensor 120 includes an infrared sensor. When the infrared sensor detects the infrared rays emitted from each light source of the HMD 110, the presence of the HMD 110 is detected. The HMD sensor 120 further detects the position and inclination of the HMD 110 in the real space according to the movement of the user 190 wearing the HMD 110 based on the position of each light source (each coordinate value in the global coordinate system). More specifically, the HMD sensor 120 can detect temporal changes in the position and inclination of the HMD 110 using each value detected over time.

  In one aspect, the HMD sensor 120 is based on the infrared light intensity acquired based on the output from the infrared sensor and the relative positional relationship between a plurality of points (for example, the distance between the points). Can be specified as a relative position with respect to the HMD sensor 120. Moreover, the processor 10 can determine the origin of the uvw visual field coordinate system of the HMD 110 in the real space (global coordinate system) based on the specified relative position.

  The global coordinate system is parallel to the real space coordinate system. Therefore, each inclination of the HMD 110 detected by the HMD sensor 120 corresponds to each inclination around the three axes of the HMD 110 in the global coordinate system. The computer 200 sets the uvw visual field coordinate system to the HMD 110 based on the inclination of the HMD 110 in the global coordinate system. The uvw visual field coordinate system set in the HMD 110 corresponds to a viewpoint coordinate system when the user 190 wearing the HMD 110 views an object in the virtual space.

[Uvw visual field coordinate system]
The uvw visual field coordinate system will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram conceptually showing the uvw visual field coordinate system set in the HMD 110 according to an embodiment. The HMD sensor 120 detects the position and inclination of the HMD 110 in the global coordinate system when the HMD 110 is activated. The processor 10 sets the uvw visual field coordinate system to the HMD 110 based on the detected value.

  As shown in FIG. 5, the HMD 110 sets a three-dimensional uvw visual field coordinate system with the head (origin) of the user 190 wearing the HMD 110 as the center (origin). More specifically, the HMD 110 includes a horizontal direction, a vertical direction, and a front-rear direction (x-axis, y-axis, z-axis) that define the global coordinate system by an inclination around each axis of the HMD 110 in the global coordinate system. Three directions newly obtained by tilting around the axis are set as the pitch axis (u-axis), yaw axis (v-axis), and roll axis (w-axis) of the uvw visual field coordinate system in the HMD 110.

  In a certain situation, when the user 190 wearing the HMD 110 stands upright and is viewing the front, the processor 10 sets the uvw visual field coordinate system parallel to the global coordinate system to the HMD 110. In this case, the horizontal direction (x-axis), vertical direction (y-axis), and front-back direction (z-axis) in the global coordinate system are the pitch axis (u-axis) and yaw axis (v-axis) of the uvw visual field coordinate system in the HMD 110. , And the roll axis (w axis).

  After the uvw visual field coordinate system is set to the HMD 110, the HMD sensor 120 can detect the inclination (the amount of change in inclination) of the HMD 110 in the set uvw visual field coordinate system based on the movement of the HMD 110. In this case, the HMD sensor 120 detects the pitch angle (θu), yaw angle (θv), and roll angle (θw) of the HMD 110 in the uvw visual field coordinate system as the inclination of the HMD 110. The pitch angle (θu) represents the inclination angle of the HMD 110 around the pitch axis in the uvw visual field coordinate system. The yaw angle (θv) represents the inclination angle of the HMD 110 around the yaw axis in the uvw visual field coordinate system. The roll angle (θw) represents the inclination angle of the HMD 110 around the roll axis in the uvw visual field coordinate system.

  The computer 200 sets the uvw visual field coordinate system in the HMD 110 after the HMD 110 has moved to the HMD 110 based on the tilt angle of the HMD 110. The relationship between the HMD 110 and the uvw visual field coordinate system of the HMD 110 is always constant regardless of the position and inclination of the HMD 110. When the position and inclination of the HMD 110 change, the position and inclination of the uvw visual field coordinate system of the HMD 110 in the global coordinate system change in conjunction with the change of the position and inclination.

[Virtual space]
The virtual space will be further described with reference to FIG. FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram conceptually showing one aspect of expressing the virtual space 2 according to an embodiment. The virtual space 2 has a spherical structure that covers the entire 360 ° direction of the center 21. In FIG. 6, the upper half of the celestial sphere in the virtual space 2 is illustrated for the sake of simplicity. In the virtual space 2, each mesh is defined. The position of each mesh is defined in advance as coordinate values in the XYZ coordinate system defined in the virtual space 2. The computer 200 develops each partial image constituting the panoramic image 22 on each corresponding mesh. Thereby, the user 190 visually recognizes the virtual space 2.

  In one aspect, the virtual space 2 defines an XYZ coordinate system with the center 21 as the origin. The XYZ coordinate system is, for example, parallel to the global coordinate system. Since the XYZ coordinate system is a kind of viewpoint coordinate system, the horizontal direction, vertical direction (vertical direction), and front-rear direction in the XYZ coordinate system are defined as an X axis, a Y axis, and a Z axis, respectively. Therefore, the X axis (horizontal direction) of the XYZ coordinate system is parallel to the x axis of the global coordinate system, the Y axis (vertical direction) of the XYZ coordinate system is parallel to the y axis of the global coordinate system, and The Z axis (front-rear direction) is parallel to the z axis of the global coordinate system.

  When the HMD 110 is activated, that is, in the initial state of the HMD 110, the virtual camera 1 is disposed at the center 21 of the virtual space 2. In one aspect, the processor 10 displays an image captured by the virtual camera 1 on the monitor 112 of the HMD 110. The virtual camera 1 similarly moves in the virtual space 2 in conjunction with the movement of the HMD 110 in the real space. Thereby, changes in the position and orientation of the HMD 110 in the real space can be similarly reproduced in the virtual space 2.

  As with the HMD 110, the uvw visual field coordinate system is defined for the virtual camera 1. The uvw visual field coordinate system of the virtual camera 1 in the virtual space 2 is defined so as to be linked to the uvw visual field coordinate system of the HMD 110 in the real space (global coordinate system). Therefore, when the inclination of the HMD 110 changes, the inclination of the virtual camera 1 also changes accordingly. The virtual camera 1 can also move in the virtual space 2 in conjunction with the movement of the user 190 wearing the HMD 110 in the real space.

  The processor 10 of the computer 200 defines the viewing area 23 in the virtual space 2 based on the position of the virtual camera 1 and the reference line of sight 5 indicating the tilt direction of the virtual camera 1 (that is, the shooting direction of the virtual camera 1). . The visual recognition area 23 corresponds to an area of the virtual space 2 that is visually recognized by the user 190 wearing the HMD 110. As described above, the uvw visual field coordinate system of the virtual camera 1 is linked to the uvw visual field coordinate system of the HMD 110. Therefore, the reference line of sight 5 is determined by the inclination of the HMD 110.

  The line of sight of the user 190 detected by the gaze sensor 140 is the direction in the viewpoint coordinate system when the user 190 visually recognizes the object. The uvw visual field coordinate system of the HMD 110 is equal to the viewpoint coordinate system when the user 190 visually recognizes the monitor 112. Further, the uvw visual field coordinate system of the virtual camera 1 is linked to the uvw visual field coordinate system of the HMD 110. Therefore, the HMD system 100 according to an aspect can regard the line of sight of the user 190 detected by the gaze sensor 140 as the line of sight of the user 190 in the uvw visual field coordinate system of the virtual camera 1.

[User's line of sight]
The determination of the line of sight of the user 190 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram showing the head of the user 190 wearing the HMD 110 according to an embodiment from above.

  In one aspect, gaze sensor 140 detects each line of sight of user 190's right eye and left eye. In a certain aspect, when the user 190 is looking near, the gaze sensor 140 detects the lines of sight R1 and L1. In another aspect, when the user 190 is looking far away, the gaze sensor 140 detects the lines of sight R2 and L2. In this case, the angle formed by the lines of sight R2 and L2 with respect to the roll axis w is smaller than the angle formed by the lines of sight R1 and L1 with respect to the roll axis w. The gaze sensor 140 transmits the detection result to the computer 200.

  When the computer 200 receives the detection values of the lines of sight R1 and L1 from the gaze sensor 140 as the line-of-sight detection result, the computer 200 identifies the point of sight N1 that is the intersection of the lines of sight R1 and L1 based on the detection value. On the other hand, when the detected values of the lines of sight R2 and L2 are received from the gaze sensor 140, the computer 200 specifies the intersection of the lines of sight R2 and L2 as the point of sight. The computer 200 specifies the line of sight N0 of the user 190 based on the specified position of the gazing point N1. For example, the computer 200 detects, as the line of sight N0, the extending direction of the straight line passing through the midpoint of the straight line connecting the right eye R and the left eye L of the user 190 and the gazing point N1. The line of sight N0 is a direction in which the user 190 is actually pointing the line of sight with both eyes. The line of sight N0 corresponds to the direction in which the user 190 is actually pointing the line of sight with respect to the visual recognition area 23.

  In another aspect, HMD system 100 may include a television broadcast receiving tuner. According to such a configuration, the HMD system 100 can display a television program in the virtual space 2.

  In still another aspect, the HMD system 100 may include a communication circuit for connecting to the Internet or a call function for connecting to a telephone line.

[Visibility area]
The visual recognition area 23 will be described with reference to FIGS. 8 and 9. FIG. 8 shows a YZ cross section of the visual recognition area 23 viewed from the X direction in the virtual space 2. FIG. 9 illustrates an XZ cross section of the visual recognition area 23 viewed from the Y direction in the virtual space 2.

  As shown in FIG. 8, the visual recognition area 23 in the YZ cross section includes an area 24. The region 24 is defined by the position of the virtual camera 1, the reference line of sight 5, and the YZ section of the virtual space 2. The processor 10 defines a range including the polar angle α around the reference line of sight 5 in the virtual space as the region 24.

  As shown in FIG. 9, the visual recognition area 23 in the XZ cross section includes an area 25. The region 25 is defined by the position of the virtual camera 1, the reference line of sight 5, and the XZ cross section of the virtual space 2. The processor 10 defines a range including the azimuth angle β around the reference line of sight 5 in the virtual space 2 as a region 25. The polar angles α and β are determined according to the position of the virtual camera 1 and the orientation of the virtual camera 1.

  In one aspect, the HMD system 100 provides the user 190 with a visual field in the virtual space by displaying the visual field image 26 on the monitor 112 based on a signal from the computer 200. The view image 26 corresponds to a portion of the panoramic image 22 that is superimposed on the viewing area 23. When the user 190 moves the HMD 110 worn on the head, the virtual camera 1 also moves in conjunction with the movement. As a result, the position of the visual recognition area 23 in the virtual space 2 changes. As a result, the view field image 26 displayed on the monitor 112 is updated to an image that is superimposed on the viewing area 23 of the panoramic image 22 in the direction in which the user 190 faces in the virtual space 2. The user 190 can visually recognize a desired direction in the virtual space 2.

  Thus, the inclination of the virtual camera 1 corresponds to the direction (reference line of sight 5) in which the user 190 is facing in the virtual space 2, and the position where the virtual camera 1 is disposed corresponds to the viewpoint of the user 190 in the virtual space 2. To do. Therefore, when the position or tilt of the virtual camera 1 is changed, the image displayed on the monitor 112 is updated, and the field of view of the user 190 is moved.

  While wearing the HMD 110, the user 190 can visually recognize only the panoramic image 22 developed in the virtual space 2 without visually recognizing the real world. Therefore, the HMD system 100 can give the user 190 a high sense of immersion in the virtual space 2.

  According to an embodiment, the virtual camera 1 may include two virtual cameras: a virtual camera for providing an image for the right eye and a virtual camera for providing an image for the left eye. In addition, appropriate parallax is set in the two virtual cameras so that the user 190 can recognize the three-dimensional virtual space 2. In this embodiment, the virtual camera 1 includes two virtual cameras, and the roll axis (w) generated by combining the roll axes of the two virtual cameras is adapted to the roll axis (w) of the HMD 110. The technical idea which concerns on this indication is illustrated as what is comprised in this way.

[HMD control device]
The control device of the HMD 110 will be described with reference to FIG. In an embodiment, the control device is realized by a computer 200 having a known configuration. FIG. 10 is a block diagram illustrating a computer 200 according to an embodiment as a modular configuration.

  As shown in FIG. 10, the computer 200 includes a display control module 220, a virtual space control module 230, a memory module 240, and a communication control module 250. The display control module 220 includes a virtual camera control module 221, a view area determination module 222, a view image generation module 223, an inclination identification module 224, a tracking module 225, and a line-of-sight detection module 226 as submodules. The virtual space control module 230 includes a virtual space definition module 231, a virtual object generation module 232, an operation object control module 233, an avatar control module 234, and a photographing module 235 as submodules.

  In an embodiment, the display control module 220 and the virtual space control module 230 are realized by the processor 10. In another embodiment, multiple processors 10 may operate as the display control module 220 and the virtual space control module 230. The memory module 240 is realized by the memory 11 or the storage 12. The communication control module 250 is realized by the communication interface 14.

  In one aspect, the display control module 220 controls image display on the monitor 112 of the HMD 110.

  The virtual camera control module 221 arranges the virtual camera 1 in the virtual space 2. Further, the virtual camera control module 221 controls the position of the virtual camera 1 in the virtual space 2 and the tilt (shooting direction) of the virtual camera 1. The visual field area determination module 222 defines the visual recognition area 23 according to the position and inclination of the virtual camera 1. The view image generation module 223 generates a view image 26 displayed on the monitor 112 based on the determined viewing area 23.

  The inclination specifying module 224 specifies the inclination of the HMD 110 (that is, the reference line of sight 5) based on the output of the sensor 114 or the HMD sensor 120.

  The tracking module 225 detects (tracks) the position of a part of the body of the user 190. In an embodiment, the tracking module 225 detects the position of the hand of the user 190 in the uvw visual field coordinate system set in the HMD 110 based on the depth information input from the camera 116. The operation of the tracking module 225 will be described later.

  The line-of-sight detection module 226 detects the line of sight of the user 190 in the virtual space 2 based on the signal from the gaze sensor 140.

  The virtual space control module 230 controls the virtual space 2 provided to the user 190. The virtual space definition module 231 defines the size and shape of the virtual space 2. The virtual space definition module 231 expands the panoramic image 22 in the virtual space 2.

  The virtual object generation module 232 generates an object arranged in the virtual space 2 based on object information 242 described later. The objects include the camera object 1810 and the monitor object 1910 described above. Objects can also include trees, animals, people, etc.

  The operation object control module 233 arranges an operation object that moves according to the operation of the user 190 in the virtual space 2. For example, the user 190 operates an object placed in the virtual space 2 by moving the operation object. In one aspect, the operation object may include a hand object corresponding to the hand of the user 190 wearing the HMD 110, for example. In one aspect, the operation object may correspond to a hand portion of an avatar object described later. In another aspect, the operation object includes an object (for example, a stick) held by the avatar object.

  The avatar control module 234 generates data for placing an avatar object corresponding to a user of another computer 200 connected via a network in the virtual space 2. In one aspect, the avatar control module 234 generates data for placing an avatar object corresponding to the user 190 in the virtual space 2. In one aspect, the avatar control module 234 generates an avatar object that imitates the user 190 based on the image of the user 190. In another aspect, the avatar control module 234 displays, in the virtual space 2, an avatar object that has been selected by the user 190 from a plurality of types of avatar objects (for example, an object imitating an animal or an object of a deformed person). Generate data for placement.

  The avatar control module 234 reflects the inclination specified by the inclination specifying module 224 on the avatar object. For example, the avatar control module 234 generates data of a tilted avatar object in response to the tilt of the HMD 110. The avatar control module 234 reflects the movement of the hand of the user 190 in the real space on the hand of the avatar object based on the output of the tracking module 225. The avatar control module 234 controls the movement of the avatar object corresponding to the user of the other computer based on the data input from the other computer 200.

  The photographing module 235 generates a photographic image. More specifically, the shooting module 235 arranges a camera object having a shooting function in the virtual space 2 and generates a photographic image corresponding to the shooting range of the camera object according to the shooting instruction of the user 190. The generated photographic image is stored in the storage 12.

  The virtual space control module 230 detects the collision when an object arranged in the virtual space 2 collides with another object. For example, when the virtual space control module 230 detects a timing when a certain object and another object touch each other, the virtual space control module 230 performs a predetermined process. When the virtual space control module 230 detects the timing at which the object is away from the touched state, the virtual space control module 230 performs a predetermined process. As a specific example, the virtual space control module 230 receives an operation on the monitor object 1910 by the operation object when detecting a contact between the operation object and the monitor object 1910 described above.

  The memory module 240 holds data used for the computer 200 to provide the virtual space 2 to the user 190. In one aspect, the memory module 240 holds space information 241, object information 242, user information 243, and a photographic image DB 244.

  The spatial information 241 includes one or more templates defined for providing the virtual space 2. The virtual space definition module 231 defines the virtual space 2 according to this template. The spatial information 241 further includes a plurality of panoramic images 22 developed in the virtual space 2. The panoramic image 22 may include a still image and a moving image. Further, the panoramic image 22 may include a real space image and a non-real space image (for example, computer graphics).

  The object information 242 holds modeling data for configuring an object arranged in the virtual space 2, information on the initial arrangement position of the object, and the like.

  The user information 243 includes a user ID that identifies the user 190. The user ID can be, for example, an IP (Internet Protocol) address or a MAC (Media Access Control) address set in the computer 200 used by the user 190. In other aspects, the user ID may be set by the user. The user information 243 includes a program for causing the computer 200 to function as a control device of the HMD system 100.

  The photographic image DB 244 stores a photographic image generated by the photographing module 235 and identification information for identifying the photographic image (hereinafter also referred to as a photo ID) in association with each other.

  Data and programs stored in the memory module 240 are input by the user 190 of the HMD 110. Alternatively, the processor 10 downloads a program or data from a computer (for example, the server 150) operated by a provider providing the content, and stores the downloaded program or data in the memory module 240.

  The communication control module 250 can communicate with the server 150 and other information communication devices via the network 19.

  In an aspect, a part of the display control module 220 and the virtual space control module 230 can be realized using, for example, Unity (registered trademark) provided by Unity Technologies. In another aspect, the display control module 220 and the virtual space control module 230 can also be realized as a combination of circuit elements that realize each process.

  Processing in the computer 200 is realized by hardware and software executed by the processor 10. Such software may be stored in advance in a memory module 240 such as a hard disk. The software may be stored in a CD-ROM or other non-volatile computer-readable data recording medium and distributed as a program product. Alternatively, the software may be provided as a program product that can be downloaded by an information provider connected to the Internet or other networks. Such software is read from a data recording medium by an optical disk drive or other data reader, or downloaded from the server 150 or other computer via the communication control module 250 and then temporarily stored in the storage 12. . The software is read from the storage 12 by the processor 10 and stored in the memory 11 in the form of an executable program. The processor 10 executes the program.

[Hand tracking]
Next, processing for tracking the movement of the hand of the user 190 will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 11 is a diagram for explaining the process of tracking the hand.

  Referring to FIG. 11, user 190 is wearing HMD 110 in real space. A camera 116 is mounted on the HMD 110. The camera 116 acquires depth information of an object included in the space 1100 in front of the HMD 110. In the example illustrated in FIG. 11, the camera 116 acquires depth information on the hand of the user 190 included in the space 1100.

  The tracking module 225 generates hand position information (hereinafter also referred to as “tracking data”) based on the depth information. The camera 116 is mounted on the HMD 110. Therefore, the tracking data indicates a position in the uvw visual field coordinate system set in the HMD 110.

  FIG. 12 is a diagram for explaining the operation of the tracking module 225. In one aspect, the tracking module 225 tracks the joint movement of the user 190 based on depth information input from the camera 116. In the example shown in FIG. 12, the tracking module 225 detects the positions of the joints a, b, c.

  The tracking module 225 is configured to be able to recognize the shape of the hand of the user 190 (finger movement) based on the positional relationship between the joints a to x. For example, the tracking module 225 may indicate that the hand of the user 190 is pointing to a finger, that the hand is open, that the hand is closed, that the hand is pinching something, and that the hand is twisted. And that the hand is in the shape of a handshake. Further, the tracking module 225 can determine whether the recognized hand is the left hand or the right hand based on the positional relationship between the joints a to d and the other joints. Such a camera 116 and the tracking module 225 may be realized by, for example, a LeapMotion (registered trademark) provided by LeapMotion.

  FIG. 13 shows an example of the data structure of tracking data. The tracking module 225 acquires tracking data for each joint ax. These tracking data represent position information in the uvw visual field coordinate system set in the HMD 110.

  The avatar control module 234 reflects the detected tracking data on the avatar object. As an example, vertices corresponding to tracking data are set at some vertices of polygons constituting the hand of the avatar object. The avatar control module 234 moves the positions of these corresponding vertices based on the tracking data. As a result, the hand movement of the user 190 in the real space is reflected in the hand movement of the avatar object in the virtual space.

[Control structure of computer 200]
Next, a control structure of the computer 200 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 14 is a flowchart illustrating an example of processing executed by the HMD system 100.

  In step S1405, the processor 10 of the computer 200 defines the virtual space 2 as the virtual space definition module 231.

  In step S <b> 1410, the processor 10 configures the virtual space 2 using the panoramic image 22. More specifically, the processor 10 develops the partial image of the panoramic image 22 on each mesh constituting the virtual space 2.

  In step S1420, the processor 10 places various objects including the virtual camera 1 and the operation object in the virtual space 2. At this time, the processor 10 places the virtual camera 1 in the center 21 defined in advance in the virtual space 2 in the work area of the memory.

  In step S1430, the processor 10 generates view image data for displaying the initial view image 26 (part of the panorama image 22) as the view image generation module 223. The generated view field image data is transmitted to the HMD 110 by the communication control module 250.

  In step S1432, the monitor 112 of the HMD 110 displays the view field image 26 based on the signal received from the computer 200. As a result, the user 190 wearing the HMD 110 recognizes the virtual space 2.

  In step S1434, the HMD sensor 120 detects the position and inclination (movement of the user 190) of the HMD 110 based on a plurality of infrared lights output from the HMD 110. The detection result is transmitted to the computer 200 as motion detection data.

  In step S1440, the processor 10 changes the position and inclination of the virtual camera 1 based on the motion detection data input from the HMD sensor 120 as the virtual camera control module 221. Thereby, the position and inclination (reference line of sight 5) of the virtual camera 1 are updated in conjunction with the movement of the head of the user 190. The viewing area determination module 222 defines the viewing area 23 according to the position and inclination of the virtual camera 1 after the change.

  In step S <b> 1446, the camera 116 detects the depth information of the hand of the user 190 and transmits it to the computer 200.

  In step S1450, the processor 10 detects the position of the hand of the user 190 in the uvw visual field coordinate system based on the depth information received as the tracking module 225. As the operation object control module 233, the processor 10 moves the operation object so as to be interlocked with the detected position of the hand of the user 190. The processor 10 executes a predetermined process for an operation when a user operation on the other object is received, for example, when the operation object comes into contact with the other object.

  As described above, the operation object may be a hand portion of an avatar object corresponding to the user 190. In this case, the processor 10 moves the hand part of the avatar object as the avatar control module 234 so as to be interlocked with the position of the hand of the user 190.

  In step S <b> 1460, the processor 10 generates view image data for displaying the view image 26 captured by the virtual camera 1 as the view image generation module 223, and outputs the generated view image data to the HMD 110.

  In step S1462, the monitor 112 of the HMD 110 displays the updated view image based on the received view image data. Thereby, the user's view in the virtual space 2 is updated.

[Avatar object]
The avatar object according to the embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 15 and 16. Hereinafter, a user of the HMD set 105A is represented as a user 190A, a user of the HMD set 105B is represented as a user 190B, a user of the HMD set 105C is represented as a user 190C, and a user of the HMD set 105D is represented as a user 190D. Further, A is added to the reference symbol of each component relating to the HMD set 105A, B is added to the reference symbol of each component relating to the HMD set 105B, and C is added to the reference symbol of each component relating to the HMD set 105C, D is added to the reference symbol of each component relating to the HMD set 105D. For example, the HMD 110A is included in the HMD set 105A.

  FIG. 15 is a schematic diagram illustrating a situation in which a plurality of HMDs 110 provide virtual spaces to a plurality of users 190 in the network 19. Referring to FIG. 15, computers 200 </ b> A to 200 </ b> D provide virtual spaces 2 </ b> A to 2 </ b> D to users 190 </ b> A to 190 </ b> D via HMDs 110 </ b> A to 110 </ b> D, respectively. In the example shown in FIG. 15, the virtual space 2A and the virtual space 2B are configured by the same data. In other words, the computer 200A and the computer 200B share the same virtual space. In the virtual space 2A and the virtual space 2B, there are an avatar object 1500A corresponding to the user 190A and an avatar object 1500B corresponding to the user 190B. It should be noted that the avatar object 1500A in the virtual space 2A and the avatar object 1500B in the virtual space 2B are each equipped with an HMD, but this is for ease of explanation. Not installed.

  In one aspect, the virtual camera control module 221A places the virtual camera 1A that captures the view image 26A of the user 190A at the eye position of the avatar object 1500A. Thereby, the user 190A can visually recognize the field of view of the avatar object 1500A in the virtual space 2A.

  FIG. 16 shows a view field image 1600 visually recognized by the user 190A in FIG. The view image 1600 is an image displayed on the monitor 112A of the HMD 110A. In FIG. 15, a panoramic image 22 of a city landscape in the real space is developed in the virtual space 2A. Further, the view image 1600 includes the avatar object 1500B of the user 190B. Although not specifically illustrated, the view image of the user 190B similarly includes a cityscape and an avatar object 1500A of the user 190A.

  In the state of FIG. 16, the user 190A can communicate with the user 190B by dialogue. More specifically, the voice of the user 190A acquired by the microphone 119A is transmitted to the HMD 110B of the user 190B via the server 150 and output from the speaker 118B provided in the HMD 110B. Further, the voice of the user 190B is transmitted to the HMD 110A of the user 190A via the server 150, and is output from the speaker 118A provided in the HMD 110A.

  The computer 200A receives the detection result of the HMD 120B and the detection result (tracking data) of the tracking module 225B from the computer 200B. As the avatar control module 234A, the computer 200A reflects the received data on the avatar object 1500B. Thereby, the user 190A can recognize the movement of the user 190B through the avatar object 1500B.

  As described above, the user 190A and the user 190B can communicate with each other while sharing the same panoramic image 22 in the virtual space. The panoramic image 22 may include, for example, a movie, a live video, an image of a tourist attraction, an image taken by the user in the past, and the like.

[Control structure of server 150]
FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating the hardware configuration and module configuration of the server 150. In an embodiment, the server 150 includes a communication interface 1710, a processor 1720, and a storage 1730 as main hardware.

  The communication interface 1710 functions as a communication module for wireless communication that performs modulation / demodulation processing for transmitting / receiving signals to / from an external communication device such as the computer 200. The communication interface 1710 is realized by a tuner, a high frequency circuit, or the like.

  The processor 1720 controls the operation of the server 150. The processor 1720 functions as a transmission / reception unit 1722, a server processing unit 1724, a matching unit 1726, and an SNS (Social Networking Service) unit 1728 by executing various control programs stored in the storage 1730.

  The transmission / reception unit 1722 transmits / receives various information to / from each computer 200. For example, the transmission / reception unit 1722 receives a request to place an object in the virtual space 2, a request to delete the object from the virtual space 2, a request to move the object, a user's voice, information for defining the virtual space 2, and the like. Send to computer 200.

  The server processing unit 1724 updates a photo DB (Data Base) 1737 and a user DB 1739, which will be described later, based on information received from each computer 200.

  The matching unit 1726 performs a series of processes for associating a plurality of users. For example, when a plurality of users perform an input operation for sharing the same virtual space 2, the matching unit 1726 performs processing for associating each user ID of the plurality of users belonging to the virtual space 2.

  The SNS unit 1728 is connected to the SNS (for example, the network 19) registered in advance for each user 190, among the plurality of photo images stored in the photo DB 1737, for the photo image designated by the computer 200 (user 190). Post to other server).

  The storage 1730 holds virtual space designation information 1731, object designation information 1733, a panoramic image DB 1735, a photograph DB 1737, and a user DB 1739.

  The virtual space designation information 1731 is information used by the virtual space definition module 231 of the computer 200 to define the virtual space 2. For example, the virtual space designation information 1731 includes information that designates the size or shape of the virtual space 2.

  The object designation information 1733 designates an object that the virtual object generation module 232 of the computer 200 places (generates) in the virtual space 2. The panorama image DB 1735 stores a plurality of panorama images 22 distributed to the computer 200 and identification information for specifying the panorama images 22 (hereinafter also referred to as “panorama image IDs”) in association with each other.

  The photo DB 1737 stores photo images received from each computer 200. The user DB 1739 stores information (user ID) for identifying each of a plurality of users and information necessary for the SNS unit 1728 to post a photographic image to the SNS in association with each other.

[Shooting in virtual space]
FIG. 18 is a diagram for explaining processing for generating a photographic image by photographing in a virtual space. In FIG. 18, as an example, a state in which the user 190A captures the virtual space 2A is shown.

  The view image 1800 visually recognized by the user 190A includes a right hand object 1510A corresponding to the right hand of the avatar object 1500A, a left hand object 1520A corresponding to the left hand, an avatar object 1500B, and a camera object 1810A. The right hand object 1510A and the left hand object 1520A function as operation objects.

  The camera object 1810A has a shooting function. As an example, the camera object 1810A is a rectangular object and has a front surface and a back surface, and the front surface functions as a preview screen.

  The right hand object 1510A holds a stick that supports the camera object 1810A. Self-taking sticks (also referred to as selfie sticks or selka sticks) that support smartphones (or devices having photographing functions) are widely recognized in the world. Therefore, when the camera object 1810A having the preview screen and the rod-shaped support member are presented together, the possibility that the user 190A recognizes the shooting function of the camera object 1810A is increased.

  The camera object 1810A is configured to be switchable between an in-camera mode for photographing the front side and an out-camera mode for photographing the rear side. In the example shown in FIG. 18, the camera object 1810A functions as an in-camera mode. Therefore, the avatar object 1500A is displayed on the front surface (preview screen) of the camera object 1810A.

  The right arm of the avatar object 1500 includes a UI (User Interface) object 1530. The computer 200A places the UI object 1530 on the arm that supports the camera object 1810A. In one aspect, the UI object 1530 functions as a trigger for shooting by the camera object 1810A.

  User 190A presses UI object 1530 with left hand object 1520A. In response to this, the computer 200A stores the photographic image corresponding to the shooting range 1830 of the camera object 1810A (that is, the image displayed on the preview screen) in the photographic image DB 244A.

[Process for checking and managing photographic images]
FIG. 19 is a diagram illustrating a state in which the user 190A confirms (views) and manages a photographic image generated on the virtual space 2A.

  The view image 1900 includes a monitor object 1910A. The monitor object 1910A has a screen 1920 capable of displaying a photographic image. In the example of FIG. 19, the monitor object 1910A imitates an electronic device widely used in the real world such as a smartphone. Thereby, the user 190A can intuitively understand the operation method of the monitor object 1910A.

  In the example of FIG. 19, a photographic image representing the avatar object 1500 </ b> A is displayed on the screen 1920. The photographic image displayed on the screen 1920 includes a photographic image generated by shooting the virtual space 2A and a photographic image generated by shooting another virtual space.

  The photograph image generated by photographing the virtual space 2A is automatically photographed based on the photograph image generated by the user 190A actively photographing using the camera object 1810A and the processor 10A based on some parameter. And a photographic image generated by doing so.

  The photographic image generated by shooting the other virtual space includes, for example, a photographic image generated by shooting the virtual space 2B by the computer 200B sharing the virtual space with the computer 200A. In this case, the computer 200A displays the photographic image received from the computer 200B on the screen 1920.

  In a certain situation, the user 190A operates the UI object 1530 with the operation object (the right hand object 1510A or the left hand object 1520A), and places the monitor object 1910A in the virtual space 2A (the visual recognition area 23A). Thereby, the user 190A can easily confirm a photographic image generated by photographing using the camera object 1810A.

(Process to place photo objects)
When the user 190A wants to share the generated photographic image with the user 190B, the right hand object 1510A is moved in the direction of the arrow 1940 (upward) while the right hand object 1510A (operation object) and the monitor object 1910A are in contact with each other. Slide. When detecting the operation, the processor 10A places a photographic object 1945 (see FIG. 2) representing a photographic image displayed on the monitor object 1910 in the virtual space 2A. More specifically, the processor 10A arranges the photographic object 1945 in the sliding direction (upward) with respect to the monitor object 1910.

  In one aspect, the photographic object 1945 is configured not to be affected by gravity set in the virtual space 2A. In this case, the user 190A can arrange the photographic object 1945 in a hollow state. In another aspect, the photographic object 1945 may be configured to be affected by gravity set in the virtual space 2A.

  The computers 200A and 200B share a virtual space. Therefore, when the photo object 1945 is arranged in the virtual space 2A, the photo object 1945 is also arranged in the virtual space 2B. Thereby, the user 190B can visually recognize the photographic object 1945 in the virtual space 2B.

  Based on the above, the user 190A can easily share a favorite photographic image with the user 190B. As a result, the user 190 </ b> A can promote communication with the user 190 </ b> B using a photographic image as a topic.

(Process to manage photographic images)
The user 190A can perform processing for managing a photographic image displayed on the monitor object 1910A by performing an operation other than the above on the monitor object 1910A using the operation object. The management process includes a process of switching a photographic image displayed on the monitor object 1910A, a process of deleting a photographic image, a process of editing a photographic image, a process of receiving a user evaluation for the photographic image, Including a process of associating information with the photographic image. Hereinafter, these processes will be described.

<Process to switch the photo image displayed on the monitor object>
When the user 190A wants to view a plurality of photographic images generated in the past, the operation object is placed in a direction orthogonal to the direction of the arrow 1940 (in FIG. 19, the direction of the arrow 1930 in the state where the operation object is in contact with the monitor object 1910A). Slide in the direction). When detecting the operation, the processor 10A switches the photographic image displayed on the screen 1920 of the monitor object 1910A. More specifically, the processor 10A switches the displayed photographic image to another photographic image among a plurality of photographic images stored in the photographic image DB 244A.

  Based on the above, the user 190A can easily confirm (view) a photographic image generated in the past on the monitor object 1910A.

  The screen 1920 of the monitor object 1910 displays a plurality of icons 1950 to 1980 in addition to the photographic image. Icon 1950 accepts a positive evaluation of user 190A for the photographic image displayed on monitor object 1910A. Icon 1960 accepts an instruction to edit a photographic image displayed on monitor object 1910A. Icon 1970 accepts an operation for associating information on a subject included in a photographic image displayed on monitor object 1910A with the photographic image. Icon 1980 accepts an instruction to delete a photographic image displayed on monitor object 1910A. Hereinafter, processing of the processor 10A when these icons are selected by the operation object will be described.

<Process for accepting evaluation for photographic image>
When the user 190A likes the photographic image displayed on the monitor object 1910A, the user 190A presses the icon 1950 with the operation object (for example, the right hand object 1510A).

  The processor 10A accesses the photographic image DB 244A and associates information indicating that the icon 1950 has been pressed (hereinafter also referred to as “evaluation information”) with the photographic image displayed on the monitor object 1910A. In other words, the processor 10A stores in the photo image DB 244A that the photo image displayed on the monitor object 1910A is a favorite of the user 190A.

<Process to edit photo image>
When the user 190A wants to edit the photographic image displayed on the monitor object 1910A, the user 190A presses the icon 1960 with the operation object.

  The processor 10 </ b> A displays a photographic image editing menu on the screen 1920 based on the pressing of the icon 1960. As an example, the edit menu includes size correction (for example, trimming processing), color adjustment (for example, monochrome processing), brightness adjustment (for example, sharpness processing), comment insertion, figure insertion, and the like. The user 190A selects an edit menu displayed on the screen 1920 with the operation object. The processor 10A performs an editing process on the photographic image according to the selected editing menu.

<Process of associating subject information with a photographic image>
When the user 190A wants to associate subject information (hereinafter also referred to as “subject information”) with the photographic image displayed on the monitor object 1910A, the user 190A presses the icon 1970 with the operation object.

  For example, the processor 10A displays, on the screen 1920, an input box for accepting input of subject information and a soft keyboard based on pressing of the icon 1970. The user 190A operates the soft keyboard with the operation object, and inputs subject information into the input box. In another aspect, the processor 10A may process a character string extracted from an audio signal corresponding to the user's utterance as subject information.

  In the example shown in FIG. 19, the photographic image includes an avatar object 1500A. In this case, the user 190A can input the information of the user 190A corresponding to the avatar object 1500A as subject information into the input box. The information of the user 190A includes, for example, a user ID, a name of the user 190A, a character name of the avatar object 1500, and the like. In another aspect, the photographic image may include an avatar object 1500B. In this case, the user 190A inputs information on the user 190B corresponding to the avatar object 1500B into the input box as subject information.

  The processor 10A accesses the photographic image DB 244A and associates the input subject information with the photographic image displayed on the monitor object 1910A.

  In another aspect, the processor 10A may be configured to extract a character string from an audio signal output from the microphone 119A after the icon 1970 is pressed and to receive subject information.

  In yet another aspect, the processor 10A may be configured to automatically acquire subject information when generating a photographic image. More specifically, the processor 10A detects an object (for example, an avatar object) included in the shooting range 1830 of the camera object 1810A at the time of shooting. The processor 10A stores information for identifying the object in the photographic image DB 244A in association with the photographic image as subject information. According to this configuration, the user 190A can save the trouble of inputting subject information.

<Process to delete photo image>
When the user 190A wants to delete the photographic image displayed on the monitor object 1910A, the user 190A presses the icon 1980 with the operation object.

  Based on the depression of the icon 1980, the processor 10A accesses the photographic image DB 244A and deletes the photographic image displayed on the monitor object 1910A.

(Control structure)
FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing a process for operating the monitor object 1910A to place a photographic object in the virtual space 2A. The processing shown in FIG. 20 is realized by the processor 10A reading and executing a control program stored in the memory module 240.

  In step S2005, the processor 10A defines the virtual space 2A as the virtual space definition module 231. In step S2010, the processor 10A expands the panoramic image 22 in the virtual space 2A.

  In step S2015, the processor 10A places the avatar object 1500A in the virtual space 2A. The hand portion (right hand object 1510A and left hand object 1520A) of the avatar object 1500A functions as an operation object.

  In step S2020, the processor 10A places the camera object 1810A in the virtual space 2A. As an example, the processor 10A arranges the camera object 1810A in response to an operation by the operation object on the UI object 1530 displayed on the arm of the avatar object 1500A.

  In step S2025, the processor 10A receives a shooting instruction from the camera object 1810A in response to an operation by the operation object on the UI object 1530. As a result, the processor 10A generates a photographic image corresponding to the shooting range 1830 of the camera object 1810A.

  The processor 10A further generates a photograph ID corresponding to the generated photograph image, and stores the photograph image (data thereof), the photograph ID, and the panorama image ID in the photograph image DB 244A.

  In one aspect, the photo ID generated by each computer 200 includes a user ID. According to this configuration, a photo ID generated by a computer used by a certain user is different from a photo ID generated by a computer used by another user. Therefore, the server 150 and each computer 200 can specify one photographic image using the photographic ID.

  In another aspect, each time the server 150 receives an input of a photographic image from the computer 200, a unique photo ID may be generated. In such a case, the server 150 transmits the generated photo ID to the computer 200 that is the transmission source of the photo image. The computer 200 associates the received photo ID with the photo image and stores it in the photo image DB 244.

  In step S2030, the processor 10A transmits the photograph image, the photograph ID, the user ID, and the panorama image ID to the server 150. The server 150 updates the photograph DB 1737 based on the received data.

  In step S2035, the processor 10A places the monitor object 1910A in the visual recognition area 23A in accordance with the operation on the UI object 1530 by the operation object.

  In step S2040, processor 10A determines whether or not an operation on monitor object 1910A by the operation object has been received. If the operation is accepted (YES in step S2040), the processor 10A executes the process of step S2045. Otherwise (NO in step S2040), processor 10A waits until accepting the operation.

  In step S2045, the processor 10A determines whether or not the accepted operation is an operation of sliding the screen 1920 of the monitor object 1910A in the longitudinal direction (or upward direction) by the operation object. If the received operation is determined to be an operation of sliding the screen 1920 in the longitudinal direction by the operation object (YES in step S2045), the processor 10A executes the process of step S2050. Otherwise (NO in step S2045), processor 10A executes the process of step S2055.

  In step S2050, the processor 10A places in the virtual space 2 a photographic object 1945 representing a photographic image displayed on the screen 1920 of the monitor object 1910A. At this time, the processor 10A may generate the view field image data so that the photographic object 1945 comes out of the monitor object 1910A according to the slide in step S2045. After that, the processor 10A executes the process of step S2040 again.

  In step S2055, the processor 10A executes processing for managing a photographic image displayed on the monitor object 1910A based on the operation received in step S2040. After that, the processor 10A executes the process of step S2040 again.

[Photo DB]
FIG. 21 shows an example of the data structure of the photograph DB 1737 held by the server 150. The photograph DB 1737 includes image data, a photograph ID, a photographer (user ID), a panoramic image ID, evaluation information, and subject information.

  As described above, when the computer 200A generates a photographic image, the image data representing the photographic image, the photo ID, the user ID, and the panoramic image ID are associated with each other and transmitted to the server 150 (step in FIG. 20). S2030). The processor 1720 of the server 150 registers the received information in the photograph DB 1737.

  Further, when the icon 1950 is pressed, the processor 10A associates the photo ID of the photo image displayed on the monitor object 1910A with the user ID, and transmits it to the server 150. Upon receiving these pieces of information, the processor 1720 accesses the photo DB 1737 and registers the received user ID as evaluation information associated with the received photo ID.

  Further, when receiving the input of the subject information, the processor 10A transmits the subject information and the photo ID of the photographic image displayed on the monitor object 1910A in association with each other to the server 150. Upon receiving these pieces of information, the processor 1720 accesses the photo DB 1737 and registers the received evaluation information in association with the photo ID.

  According to this configuration, the administrator of the server 150 can grasp the subject that the user likes based on the photo DB 1737. In one aspect, the server 150 distributes an advertisement or a panoramic image 22 that is estimated to be of interest to the user to the computer 200 based on a subject that the user likes.

  Further, in one aspect, when the icon 1980 is pressed, the processor 10A associates a deletion instruction indicating that the icon is pressed with the photo ID of the photo image displayed on the monitor object 1910A. Send to server 150. Upon receiving these pieces of information, the processor 1720 accesses the photo DB 1737 and deletes data (including photo images) associated with the received photo ID.

[Process to post to SNS]
Referring back to FIG. 19, the screen 1920 of the monitor object 1910 </ b> A further displays an icon 1990. Icon 1990 accepts an instruction to post a photographic image displayed on monitor object 1910A to a previously registered SNS. The process of posting a photographic image to the SNS will be specifically described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 22 is a flowchart illustrating processing in which the computer 200A and the server 150 cooperate to post a photographic image to the SNS.

  In step S <b> 2210, the processor 10 </ b> A of the computer 200 </ b> A determines whether the icon 1990 (denoted as an SNS button in FIG. 22) is pressed by the operation object. When the icon 1990 is pressed (YES in step S2210), the processor 10A transmits the photo ID of the photo image displayed on the monitor object 1910A and the user ID of the user 190A to the server 150 (step S2220). Otherwise (NO in step S2210), processor 10A waits until icon 1990 is pressed.

  In step S2230, the processor 1720 of the server 150 refers to the user DB 1739 and acquires information necessary for registering a photographic image in the SNS.

  FIG. 23 shows an example of the data structure of the user DB 1737. The user DB 1739 includes a user ID, a registered SNS, an SNS ID, and an SNS password. The registered SNS is information (for example, URL (Uniform Resource Locator)) for accessing the SNS registered for each user. The SNS ID is information for identifying the user 190 in the registered SNS. The SNS password is information necessary for logging in to the registered SNS using the SNS ID. The registered SNS, SNSID, and SNS password are registered in advance in the user DB 1739 by each user 190.

  Referring to FIG. 22 again, in step S2230, the processor 1720 refers to the user DB 1739, and specifies the registered SNS, SNS ID, and SNS password corresponding to the user ID received from the computer 200A.

  In step S2240, the processor 1720 accesses the registered SNS using the identified SNS ID and SNS password.

  In step S2250, the processor 1720 accesses the photo DB 1737 and posts (uploads) a photo image (image data) corresponding to the received photo ID to the registration SNS.

  Based on the above, the user 190A can easily post the generated photographic image to the SNS in the virtual space 2A.

[Operations on photo objects]
FIG. 24 is a diagram for explaining an operation on a photo object by the operation object. The view image 2400 corresponds to a part of the virtual space 2A visually recognized by the user 190A. The view image 2400 includes an avatar object 1500B and a photographic object 2410.

  The avatar object 1500B holds a monitor object 1910B. In one aspect, the user 190B places the photographic object 2410 in the virtual space 2A. More specifically, the user 190B operates the monitor object 1910B with the avatar object 1500B (operation object), and arranges the photographic object 2410 in the virtual space 2A.

  A photographic object 2410 represents a photographic image generated by a shooting operation performed on the virtual space 2B by a user 190B of a computer 200B different from the computer 200A. When generating the photographic image, the computer 200B transmits the photographic image (image data) and the photographic ID corresponding to the photographic image to the computer 200A sharing the virtual space.

  The photographic object 2410 includes icons 2450 to 2490 corresponding to the icons 1950 to 1990 described in FIG.

  The user 190A performs various processing on the photographic image displayed on the photographic object 2410 by pressing the icons 2450 to 2490 with the operation object (for example, the right hand object 1510A).

  The processing of the processor 10A based on the pressing of the icons 2450 to 2470 and the icon 2490 corresponds to the processing of the processor 10A based on the pressing of the icons 1950 to 1970 and the icon 1990, respectively. Therefore, as an example, processing of the processor 10A based on pressing of the icon 2450 will be described.

(Process to evaluate photographic images generated by others)
<Evaluation process based on icons>
When the user 190A likes the photographic image displayed on the photographic object 2410, the user 190A presses the icon 2450 with the operation object. That is, the processor 10A accepts a positive evaluation for the photographic image displayed on the photographic object 2410 of the user 190A based on the pressing of the icon 2450.

  The processor 10A stores the photo image displayed on the photo object 2410 in the photo DB 244A based on the pressing of the icon 2450. The processor 10 </ b> A further transmits the user ID of the user 190 </ b> A and the photo ID of the photo image displayed on the photo object 2410 to the server 150.

  Upon receiving the above information from the computer 200A, the processor 1720 of the server 150 accesses the photo DB 1737 and registers the received user ID as evaluation information corresponding to the received photo ID.

<Evaluation process based on line of sight>
In another aspect, processor 10A accepts a positive evaluation for a photographic image displayed on photographic object 2410, based on the line of sight of user 190A in virtual space 2A.

  The view image 2400 further includes a pointer object 2420. The processor 10A detects the line of sight of the user 190A in the real space based on the output signal of the gaze sensor 140. The processor 10A further converts the detected line of sight into an XYZ coordinate system defined by the virtual space 2A based on the position and inclination of the virtual camera 1A in the virtual space 2A. The processor 10A places the pointer object 2420 at a position where the line of sight of the user 190A collides with the object in the virtual space 2A. That is, the pointer object 2420 represents a position where the user 190A is pouring his / her line of sight in the virtual space 2A.

  In the example shown in FIG. 24, the pointer object 2420 is arranged on the photo object 2410. This represents that the line of sight of the user 190A in the virtual space 2A is poured into the photographic object 2410. When the processor 10A detects that the line of sight of the user 190A has been poured into the photographic object 2410 for a predetermined time (for example, 5 seconds), the processor 10A executes processing based on the pressing of the icon 2450 described above. The reason is that, when the user 190A is staring at the photo object 2410 for a long time, the user 190A is likely to be interested in the photo image displayed on the photo object 2410.

  In yet another aspect, the processor 10A may execute the processing based on the pressing of the icon 2450 described above when the photo object 2410 is in contact with the operation object for a predetermined time.

<Evaluation process based on contact with multiple operation objects>
In yet another aspect, the server 150 uses the icon 2450 described above based on the fact that the photo object 2410 is in contact with a plurality of operation objects (in the example of FIG. 24, each hand part of the avatar objects 1500A and 1500B). A process based on the pressing of is executed. The reason is that, under the above conditions, a plurality of users are trying to communicate based on the photo object 2410, and it is highly likely that the plurality of users are interested in the photo object 2410. The processing will be specifically described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 25 is a flowchart illustrating an example of processing in which the server 150 receives an evaluation for a photographic image. In step S2510, the processor 10A of the computer 200A determines whether or not the photographic object 2410 and the operation object corresponding to the user 190A are in contact with each other. If processor 10A determines that photo object 2410 and the operation object are in contact (YES in step S2510), it executes the process of step S2520. If not (NO in step S2510), the processor 10A waits until the photograph object 2410 comes into contact with the operation object.

  In step S <b> 2520, the processor 10 </ b> A stores, in the server 150, contact information indicating that the photograph object 2410 and the operation object have contacted, the photograph ID of the photograph image displayed on the photograph object 2410, and the user ID of the user 190 </ b> A. Send.

  In step S2530, the processor 10A determines whether or not the photo object 2410 and the operation object are separated from each other. If the processor 10A determines that the photograph object 2410 and the operation object are separated (YES in step S2530), the processor 10A executes the process of step S2540. Otherwise (NO in step S2530), processor 10A waits until the photo object 2410 is separated from the operation object.

  In step S <b> 2540, the processor 10 </ b> A transmits separation information indicating that the photograph object 2410 is separated from the operation object, a photograph ID, and a user ID to the server 150.

  The computer 200B sharing the virtual space with the computer 200A also executes the processes of steps S2510 to S2540 described above.

  In step S <b> 2550, the processor 1720 of the server 150 determines whether or not the operation object corresponding to each of the users 190 </ b> A and 190 </ b> B has contacted the photo object 2410 based on information received from each computer 200. More specifically, when the contact information is received, the processor 1720 stores the user ID and the photo ID associated with the contact information in the storage 1730. When the processor 1720 receives the separation information, the processor 1720 deletes the user ID and the photo ID associated with the separation information from the storage 1730. When a plurality of user IDs are stored in the storage 1730 for one photo ID, the processor 1720 determines that a plurality of operation objects and a photo object are in contact with each other.

  If processor 1720 determines that a plurality of operation objects and a photo object are in contact (YES in step S2550), it executes the process of step S2560. Otherwise (NO in step S2550), processor 1720 waits until a plurality of operation objects and photo objects come into contact with each other.

  In step S2560, the processor 1720 accesses the photo DB 1737 and registers the user IDs of the users 190A and 190B as evaluation information corresponding to the received photo ID.

(Process to delete photo object)
<Deleting process based on icon>
Referring to FIG. 24 again, the processor 10A deletes the photographic object 2410 from the virtual space 2A based on the pressing of the icon 2480 by the operation object. The processor 10A may further be configured to access the photo image DB 244A and delete the photo image (image data) displayed on the photo object 2410.

<Deleting process based on destructive operation>
In another aspect, the processor 10A may delete the photo object 2410 from the virtual space 2A when receiving an operation of destroying the photo object 2410.

  FIG. 26 is a diagram for explaining processing for deleting a photo object 2410. The view image 2600 includes a photographic object 2410 and a right hand object 1510A that functions as an operation object.

  In the example of FIG. 26, the right hand object 1510A holds a writer object 2610. Further, a flame object 2620 is disposed adjacent to the lighter object 2610.

  In one aspect, the user 190A operates the UI object 1530 with the left hand object 1520A while the right hand object 1510A holds the writer object 2610. The processor 10A places the flame object 2620 in the vicinity of the lighter object 2610 in accordance with the operation of the user 190A.

  The processor 10A deletes the photo object 2410 from the virtual space 2A based on the contact between the flame object 2620 and the photo object 2410.

  Based on the above, the user 190A can delete the photo object 2410 from the virtual space 2A by an intuitive operation of destroying the photo object 2410. Thereby, the user 190A can be more immersed in the virtual space 2A.

  Note that the operation of destroying the photographic object 2410 is not limited to the contact between the flame object 2620 and the photographic object 2410. For example, the processor 10A detects an operation of tearing the photo object 2410 with the right hand object 1510A and the left hand object 1520A, an operation of hitting the photo object 2410 with another object (for example, the ground) at a predetermined speed or more by the operation object, and the like. In this case, it is determined that an operation for destroying the photographic object 2410 has been received.

[Process to generate psychic photos]
In one aspect, the processor 10A generates a psychic photograph. Thereby, the user 190A can promote communication with other users who share the virtual space using the psychic photograph as a seed of talk.

  FIG. 27 is a diagram (No. 1) for describing a process of generating a psychic photograph. The virtual space 2A shown in FIG. 27 includes an avatar object 1500A, a camera object 1810A, and a ghost object 2700.

  FIG. 28 is a diagram (No. 2) for describing the process of generating the psychic photograph. A field-of-view image 2800 shown in FIG. 28 includes a monitor object 1910A. The screen 1920 of the monitor object 1910A displays a photographic image generated by the camera object 1810A in the state shown in FIG. This photographic image includes a ghost object 2700.

  When the ghost object 2700 is included in the shooting range (viewing area 23A) of the virtual camera 1A, the processor 10A generates a view image that does not include the ghost object 2700. On the other hand, when the ghost object 2700 is included in the shooting range 1830 of the camera object 1810A, the processor 10A generates a photographic image including the ghost object 2700.

  As an example, the processor 10A places a transparent ghost object 2700 in the virtual space 2A. When the ghost object 2700 is included in the shooting range 1830 of the camera object 1810A, the processor 10A visualizes the ghost object 2700 (for example, lowers the transparency of the ghost object 2700) and generates a photographic image.

  According to the above, the user 190A cannot directly visually recognize the ghost object 2700 arranged in the virtual space 2A, but can indirectly visually recognize it by a photographic image.

  In one aspect, the ghost object 2700 is arranged with the virtual space 2A fixed at a predetermined position. In this case, the user 190A may enjoy looking for a place where the ghost object 2700 is placed. In other aspects, the ghost object 2700 may be configured to move in the virtual space 2A. In this case, the user 190A can enjoy an unexpected psychic photograph.

[Process for generating photographic images of avatar objects with different display modes]
FIG. 29 is a diagram for describing processing for generating a photographic image including an avatar object 1500B having a display mode different from that of the avatar object 1500B arranged in the virtual space 2A.

  Referring to FIG. 29, field-of-view image 2900 includes an avatar object 1500B and a monitor object 1910A arranged in virtual space 2A. The processor 10A receives a shooting instruction from the user 190A in a state in which the avatar object 1500B is included in the shooting range 1830 of the camera object 1810A. In one aspect, the processor 10A generates a photographic image including the avatar object 1500B having a display mode different from the avatar object 1500B arranged in the virtual space 2A in response to the shooting instruction.

  In the example shown in FIG. 29, the avatar object 1500B arranged in the virtual space 2A is thin. On the other hand, the avatar object 1500B displayed on the screen 1920 of the monitor object 1910A is muscular.

  On a certain situation, processor 10A performs processing which changes the display mode of the avatar object contained in a photograph image based on the setting received from user 190A. In this case, the user 190A can generate a photographic image including the user's favorite avatar object.

  In another aspect, the processor 10A may be configured to execute a process of changing a display mode of an avatar object included in a photographic image at random. For example, the processor 10A generates a random number, and executes the process when the generated random number satisfies a predetermined condition. In this case, the user 190A can enjoy an unexpected photographic image.

  Moreover, the user 190 </ b> A can promote communication with other users who share the virtual space by using a photographic image including the avatar object whose display mode has been changed as a topic.

  In addition, the process which changes the display mode of an avatar object is not restricted to the process which changes the physique of an avatar object. For example, the process of changing the display mode of the avatar object includes a process of changing the clothes of the avatar object, a process of changing the expression of the avatar object, and the like.

[Constitution]
The technical features disclosed above can be summarized as follows.

  (Configuration 1) According to an embodiment, a program to be executed by the computer 200A that provides the virtual space 2 is provided. This program corresponds to the step of defining the virtual space 2A in the computer 200A (step S2005), the step of arranging the camera object 1810A having a photographing function in the virtual space 2A (step S2020), and the photographing range of the camera object 1810A. A step of generating an image (step S2025), a step of placing a monitor object 1910A capable of displaying the generated image in the virtual space 2A (step S2035), and an operation object (moving according to the operation of the user 190 of the computer 200A) ( For example, based on the step of placing the hand object 1510A) in the virtual space 2A (step SS2015) and the first operation on the monitor object 1910A by the hand object 1510A, the monitor object Placing a photographic object 2410 representing an image displayed on-object 1910A in the virtual space 2A to execute (step S2050).

  (Configuration 2) The program according to (Configuration 1) accepts an input of processing for managing an image displayed on the monitor object 1910A to the computer 200A based on the second operation on the monitor object 1910A by the operation object (step S2055). ) Is further executed.

  (Structure 3) In (Structure 2), the process of managing an image includes a process of deleting an image, a process of editing an image, a process of accepting an evaluation on the image, and a process of associating information on a subject included in the image with the image At least one of the processes is included (FIG. 21).

  (Configuration 4) The program according to (Configuration 3) virtually transmits a step of communicating with the computer 200B to the computer 200A, an avatar object 1500A corresponding to the user 190A of the computer 200A, and an avatar object 1500B corresponding to the user 190B of the computer 200B. The step of arranging in the space 2A is further executed (FIGS. 15 and 16). The generated image includes an avatar object 1500A or an avatar object 1500B. The subject information included in the image includes information of the user 190 corresponding to the avatar object included in the generated image (FIG. 21). Thereby, the other user can easily determine who's avatar object is included in the image. For example, another user can easily search for an image including an avatar object of a specific person.

  (Configuration 5) The program according to any one of (Configuration 1) to (Configuration 4) causes the computer 200A to further execute a step of placing an avatar object 1500A corresponding to the user 190A of the computer 200A in the virtual space 2A (step S2015). . The operation object includes a hand 1510A of the avatar object 1500A. Thereby, the user 190A can feel as if his / her hand is present on the virtual space 2A, and can be more immersed in the virtual space 2A.

  (Configuration 6) In any one of (Configuration 2) to (Configuration 4), the monitor object 1910A includes a screen 1920 for displaying the generated image. The process of managing images includes a process of switching images displayed on the screen. The second operation includes an operation of sliding the screen 1920 in the first direction (the direction of the arrow 1930) with the hand object 1510A. The first operation includes an operation of sliding the screen in the second direction (direction of the arrow 1940) orthogonal to the first direction by the hand object 1510A (FIG. 19). The user 190 </ b> A can switch an image displayed on the screen 1920 by an operation similar to an operation on an electronic device (for example, a smartphone or a tablet) in the real space. That is, the program can prompt the user 190A to understand intuitive operations.

  (Configuration 7) The program according to any one of (Configuration 1) to (Configuration 6) accesses a pre-registered social network service to the computer 200A based on an operation on the monitor object 1910A by the hand object 1510A (step S2210). The step (step S2240) and the step of posting the image displayed on the monitor object 1910A to the social network service (step S2250) are further executed.

  (Configuration 8) The program according to any one of (Configuration 1) to (Configuration 7) receives a picture object 2410 or an image represented by the picture object 2410 based on receiving an operation for destroying the picture object 2410 from the computer 200A. The step of deleting is further executed (FIG. 26).

  (Configuration 9) The program according to any one of (Configuration 1) to (Configuration 8) causes the computer 200A to further execute a step of placing the transparent ghost object 2700 in the virtual space 2A (FIG. 27). Generating the image includes generating an image including the visualized ghost object 2700 when the ghost object 2700 is included in the shooting range of the camera object 1810A (FIG. 28).

  (Configuration 10) A program according to any one of (Configuration 1) to (Configuration 9) communicates with the computer 200A on the computer 200A, and places an avatar object 1500B corresponding to the user 190 of the computer 200B in the virtual space 2A. And further execute. Generating an image includes an image including an avatar object 1500B having a display mode different from the display mode of the avatar object 1500B arranged in the virtual space 2A when the avatar object 1500B is included in the shooting range of the camera object 1810A. Generating (FIG. 29).

  (Configuration 11) A program according to any one of (Configuration 1) to (Configuration 10) is a program that communicates with the computer 200A, the step of communicating with the computer 200B, and another image that represents an image generated by a shooting operation performed by the user 190B of the computer 200B. The step of arranging the photographic object 2410 in the virtual space 2A and the step of receiving the evaluation of the user 190A of the computer 200A with respect to the image displayed on the other photographic object 2410 are further executed (FIG. 24).

  (Configuration 12) The program according to (Configuration 11) causes the computer 200A to further execute a step of detecting the line of sight of the user 190 of the computer 200A in the virtual space 2A. The step of accepting the evaluation is based on detecting that the line of sight of the user 190 of the computer 200A has been poured into the other photographic object 2410 for a predetermined time, and displaying the image displayed on the other photographic object 2410. Including accepting an evaluation for.

  (Configuration 13) In (Configuration 11), another photographic object 2410 includes an icon 2450 for receiving an evaluation. The step of receiving an evaluation includes receiving an evaluation for an image displayed on another photo object 2410 based on the contact between the hand object 1510A and the icon 2450.

(Configuration 14) A program according to any one of (Configuration 11) to (Configuration 13) transmits a generated image to a server (step S2520) to a computer 200A, a hand object 1510A, a photo object 2410, or another photo. Object 24
A step (step S2520) of transmitting information representing that the terminal 10 is in contact with the server.
) And further execute. With this configuration, the server 150 can detect that a plurality of avatar objects are simultaneously touching the same photo object. When the server 150 detects the event (YES in step S2550), the server 150 accepts evaluations of a plurality of users corresponding to the plurality of avatar objects with respect to the image displayed on the photo object (step S2560).

  It should be thought that embodiment disclosed this time is an illustration and restrictive at no points. The scope of the present invention is defined by the terms of the claims, rather than the description above, and is intended to include any modifications within the scope and meaning equivalent to the terms of the claims.

  1 virtual camera, 2 virtual space, 5 reference line of sight, 10, 1720 processor, 11 memory, 12, 1730 storage, 22 panoramic image, 23 viewing area, 26, 300, 1600, 1800, 1900, 2400, 2600, 2800, 2900 View image, 100 HMD system, 105 HMD set, 112 monitor, 114 sensor, 116 camera, 120 HMD sensor, 140 gaze sensor, 150 server, 190 users, 200 computers, 220 display control module, 221 virtual camera control module, 222 view Area determination module, 223 visual field image generation module, 224 tilt identification module, 225 tracking module, 226 gaze detection module, 230 virtual space control module, 23 Virtual space definition module, 232 Virtual object generation module, 233 Operation object control module, 234 Avatar control module, 235 Shooting module, 240 Memory module, 241 Spatial information, 242 Object information, 243 User information, 250 Communication control module, 1500 Avatar object , 1510 hand object, 1722 transmission / reception unit, 1724 server processing unit, 1726 matching unit, 1728 SNS unit, 1731 virtual space designation information, 1733 object designation information, 1810 camera object, 1830 shooting range, 1910 monitor object, 1920 screen, 1945, 2410 Photo object, 1950, 1960, 1970, 1980, 1990, 24 0,2470,2480,2490 icon, 2420 pointer object, 2610 writer object, 2620 flame object, 2700 ghost object.

Claims (16)

A program executed on a computer that provides a virtual space, the program being stored in the computer,
Defining a virtual space;
Arranging a camera object having a photographing function in the virtual space;
Generating an image corresponding to a shooting range of the camera object;
Arranging a monitor object capable of displaying the generated image in the virtual space;
Arranging an operation object that moves in response to an operation of a user of the computer in the virtual space;
A program that executes a step of arranging, in the virtual space, a photographic object representing an image displayed on the monitor object based on a first operation on the monitor object by the operation object.   The said program makes the said computer further perform the step which receives the input of the process which manages the image currently displayed on the said monitor object based on 2nd operation with respect to the said monitor object by the said operation object. Program.   The process for managing the image includes at least one of a process for deleting the image, a process for editing the image, a process for accepting an evaluation on the image, and a process for associating information on a subject included in the image with the image. The program according to claim 2. The program is stored in the computer.
Communicating with the information processing terminal;
A step of arranging a first avatar object corresponding to the user of the computer and a second avatar object corresponding to the user of the information processing terminal in the virtual space;
The generated image includes the first avatar object or the second avatar object,
The program according to claim 3, wherein the subject information included in the image includes user information corresponding to an avatar object included in the generated image. The program further causes the computer to execute a step of placing a first avatar object corresponding to a user of the computer in the virtual space,
The program according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the operation object includes a hand of the first avatar object. The monitor object includes a screen for displaying the generated image,
The process of managing the image includes a process of switching an image displayed on the screen,
The second operation includes an operation of sliding the screen in a first direction by the operation object,
5. The program according to claim 2, wherein the first operation includes an operation of sliding the screen in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction by the operation object. The program is stored in the computer.
Accessing a pre-registered social network service based on an operation on the monitor object by the operation object;
The program according to claim 1, further causing a step of posting an image displayed on the monitor object to the social network service.   The program according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the program further causes the computer to further execute a step of deleting the photo object or an image represented by the photo object based on receiving an operation of destroying the photo object. The program described in the section. The program further causes the computer to execute a step of placing a transparent object in the virtual space,
The generation of the image includes generating an image including the visualized transparent object when the transparent object is included in a shooting range of the camera object. The program described in. The program is stored in the computer.
Communicating with the information processing terminal;
Further executing a step of arranging a second avatar object corresponding to the user of the information processing terminal in the virtual space;
The generation of the image is performed when the second avatar object is included in a shooting range of the camera object, and the display mode is different from the display mode of the second avatar object arranged in the virtual space. The program of any one of Claims 1-9 including producing | generating the image containing 2 avatar objects. The program is stored in the computer.
Communicating with the information processing terminal;
Placing another photographic object representing an image generated by a photographing operation performed by a user of the information processing terminal in the virtual space;
The program according to claim 1, further causing a step of receiving an evaluation of a user of the computer with respect to an image displayed on the other photographic object. The program further causes the computer to execute a step of detecting a line of sight of a user of the computer in the virtual space,
The step of accepting the evaluation is based on detecting that the user's line of sight of the computer has been poured into the other photographic object for a predetermined time. The program according to claim 11, comprising accepting an evaluation for. The other photo object includes an icon for accepting the evaluation,
The program according to claim 11, wherein the step of receiving the evaluation includes receiving an evaluation on an image displayed on the other photo object based on the contact between the operation object and the icon. The program is stored in the computer.
Transmitting the generated image to a server;
Further executing the step of transmitting to the server information indicating that the operation object is in contact with the photo object or the other photo object.
The program according to any one of claims 11 to 13. A memory storing the program according to any one of claims 1 to 14,
An information processing apparatus comprising: a processor for executing the program. A computer-implemented method for providing a virtual space, comprising:
Defining a virtual space;
Arranging a camera object having a photographing function in the virtual space;
Generating an image corresponding to a shooting range of the camera object;
Arranging a monitor object capable of displaying the generated image in the virtual space;
Arranging an operation object that moves in response to an operation of a user of the computer in the virtual space;
Placing a photographic object representing an image displayed on the monitor object in the virtual space based on a first operation on the monitor object by the operation object.

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