JP2022188776A - Avatar output device, terminal device, avatar output method and program - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide avatars suitable for users, while suppressing a processing load, which is difficult for the conventional technique when outputting multiple avatars.

SOLUTION: An avatar output device 1 comprises: an avatar storage section 112 for storing avatar information having first model information for displaying an avatar for each of two or more avatars; a determination section 133 for determining, out of the two or more avatars, one or more first avatars to be displayed using the first model information, and one or more second avatars to be displayed using second model information having a data size smaller than that of the first model information; an avatar acquisition section 134 for acquiring an avatar using the second model information for each of the one or more second avatars determined by the determination section 133, and acquiring an avatar using the first model information for each of the one or more first avatars; and an avatar output section 142 for outputting the two or more avatars acquired by the avatar acquisition section 134.

SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

COPYRIGHT: (C)2023,JPO&INPIT

Description

Patent Act Article 30, Paragraph 2 application filed March 26, 2021 https://www. youtube. com/watch? Announced through v=wRErhyoT70c

Patent Act Article 30, Paragraph 2 application filed March 28, 2021 https://www. youtube. com/watch? Announced through v=WyC76fzzzCA

Patent Act Article 30, Paragraph 2 application filed March 31, 2021 https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=YhX7xJ0MkxI, https://speakerdeck. Announced via com/clusterinc/cluster-lod

The present invention relates to an avatar output device and the like that perform processing related to avatar output.

Conventionally, there has been a content distribution system that realizes the provision of a suitable viewing experience while ensuring the presence of a large number of people (see Patent Document 1). In such a system, when outputting the content of the main character and the content of the secondary character representing the viewing user, the proportion of the secondary characters that are to behave in a predetermined manner is determined, and only the secondary characters of this proportion are allowed to act. I was doing what I was doing.

Japanese Patent No. 6688378

However, in the prior art, when outputting a large number of avatars, it was difficult to obtain avatars suitable for the user while suppressing the processing load. Note that an avatar is a character displayed as a user's alter ego.

An avatar output device according to a first aspect of the present invention comprises an avatar storage unit storing avatar information having first model information for displaying an avatar for each of two or more avatars; a determination unit that determines one or more first avatars to be displayed using one piece of model information and one or more second avatars to be displayed using second model information having a data size smaller than the first model information; Obtaining an avatar using the second model information for each of the one or more second avatars determined by the determining unit, and obtaining an avatar using the first model information for each of the one or more first avatars and an avatar output unit that outputs two or more avatars acquired by the avatar acquisition unit.

With this configuration, at least some of the two or more avatars are avatars with a smaller data size, thereby suppressing the processing load when outputting a large number of avatars, and providing an appropriate image for the user. You can get an avatar.

In addition, in the avatar output device of the second invention, in contrast to the first invention, the avatar information also has first audio information for the avatar to output audio, and the determination unit includes two or more avatars Among them, one or more first avatars that are avatars corresponding to the first audio information, second audio information having a data size smaller than the first audio information, or second audio information having an attribute value different from the first audio information determine one or more second avatars that are avatars corresponding to the second avatars, acquire second audio information for each of the one or more second avatars determined by the determination unit, and acquire second audio information for each of the one or more first avatars The avatar output device includes a voice acquisition unit that acquires first voice information, and a voice output unit that outputs the first voice information and the second voice information acquired by the voice acquisition unit.

With such a configuration, appropriate voices of two or more avatars can be output by using voice information corresponding to the avatars.

In addition, in the avatar output device of the third invention, in contrast to the first or second invention, the first model information or the original information that is the basis of the first model information is output from each of two or more terminal devices used by the user. and the avatar information having the first model information acquired using the first model information received by the avatar receiving unit or the original information received by the avatar receiving unit is stored in the avatar storage unit The avatar output device further comprises a storage unit.

With this configuration, avatar model information or original information can be received and used from two or more terminal devices. In other words, users can display their favorite avatars on the field. It can be said that the place is the background where the avatar is displayed or the surroundings where the avatar is displayed. A field is usually a virtual three-dimensional space. It should be noted that the place can be called the world.

Further, in the avatar output device of the fourth invention, in contrast to the third invention, the avatar receiving unit receives position information specifying the position of the avatar corresponding to each terminal device from two or more terminal devices. Among the received location information of two or more avatars corresponding to each of two or more terminal devices, at least the location information of one or more other avatars excluding the location information of the own avatar corresponding to the destination terminal device, The avatar output device further includes a location information transmission unit that transmits location information to two or more terminal devices in association with an avatar identifier that identifies the avatar.

With such a configuration, position information of other avatars can be transmitted to each of two or more terminal devices.

In addition, in the avatar output device of the fifth invention, in contrast to the fourth invention, the avatar receiving unit comprises the score of one or more other avatars acquired by each terminal device from two or more terminal devices or the score Receives the determination result based on the avatar identifier in association with the determining unit, using the score or the determination result, for each of the two or more terminal devices, using the first model information among the two or more avatars An avatar output device that determines one or more first avatars to be displayed and one or more second avatars to be displayed using second model information having a data size smaller than the first model information.

With such a configuration, the load on the avatar output device can be reduced by acquiring scores of other avatars with two or more terminal devices.

Further, the avatar output device of the sixth invention uses the first model information or the original information for any one of the third to fifth inventions to generate a second model having a data size smaller than the first model information. The avatar output device further includes a model compression unit for acquiring information, and the avatar storage unit stores avatar information having the first model information and the second model information in the avatar storage unit.

With such a configuration, it is possible to obtain second model information in which the first model information of each of two or more avatars is compressed.

Further, in the avatar output device of the seventh invention, for any one of the first to sixth inventions, the determination unit acquires using one or more dynamic attribute values corresponding to each of the two or more avatars an avatar output device that determines one or more second avatars based on the scores or determination results obtained.

With this configuration, an avatar with a smaller data size can be determined based on an appropriate score obtained using the dynamic attribute value of the avatar.

Further, in the avatar output device of the eighth invention, in contrast to the fourth or seventh invention, the one or more dynamic attribute values are an attribute value related to the field of view of the user corresponding to the avatar, an attribute value related to the field of view of the camera , an attribute value related to the distance from the user, or an attribute value related to the orientation with respect to the user.

With such a configuration, an avatar with a smaller data size can be determined based on an appropriate score obtained using appropriate dynamic attribute values of the avatar.

In addition, in the avatar output device of the ninth invention, in contrast to any one of the first to eighth inventions, the second model information is a model in which the data size of only a part of the avatar is reduced. It is an avatar output device that is information.

With such a configuration, it is possible to use an avatar with a small size only for some parts.

Further, in the avatar output device of the tenth invention, in contrast to any one of the first to ninth inventions, the terminal device and the It is an avatar output device that shares the processing.

With this configuration, processing can be shared between two or more terminal devices and the avatar output device.

Further, in the avatar output device of the eleventh aspect of the present invention, in contrast to the tenth aspect, the determination unit includes, for each of the two or more terminal devices, one or more dynamic attribute values corresponding to each of the two or more avatars The terminal device determines one or more second avatars based on the score or determination result obtained using the first The avatar output device performs the process of acquiring the second model information using the model information.

With this configuration, it is possible to appropriately share processing between two or more terminal devices and the avatar output device.

Further, in the avatar output device of the twelfth invention, in contrast to any one of the first to eleventh inventions, the avatar information of each of the two or more avatars in the avatar storage unit is the first model information and the second model information. model information, the avatar acquisition unit reads the second model information for one or more second avatars determined by the determination unit, configures the avatar using the second model information, and the first avatar , an avatar output device that reads first model information and configures an avatar using the first model information.

With this configuration, at least some of the two or more avatars are avatars with a smaller data size, so that when a large number of avatars are output, the processing load is suppressed and the output is suitable for the user. you can get a nice avatar.

Further, in the avatar output device of the thirteenth invention, in contrast to any one of the first to twelfth inventions, the avatar information of each of the two or more avatars in the avatar storage unit is one or more that do not dynamically change. and the determination unit determines one or more second avatars using information based on one or more static attribute values corresponding to each of the two or more avatars. .

With such a configuration, it is possible to determine an avatar with a smaller data size based on the static attribute value of the avatar.

Further, in the avatar output device of the fourteenth invention, in contrast to the thirteenth invention, the one or more static attribute values include either an attribute value related to the role of the avatar or an attribute value related to the origin of the avatar. , is an avatar output device.

With such a configuration, an avatar with a smaller data size can be determined based on the appropriate static attribute value of the avatar.

Further, the avatar output device of the fifteenth invention is an avatar output device, in contrast to the thirteenth invention, wherein the one or more static attribute values include attribute values of a terminal device corresponding to the avatar.

With such a configuration, an avatar with a smaller data size can be determined based on the appropriate static attribute value of the avatar.

Further, in the avatar output device of the sixteenth invention, for any one of the first to fifteenth inventions, the second model information has N (N is a natural number of 2 or more) that the first model information has , which is model information having mesh information of M smaller than N (M is a natural number of 1 or more) obtained using mesh information of .

With such a configuration, by making at least some avatars of each of two or more avatars appropriately compressed data avatars, an output including a large number of avatars can be obtained in real time.

In addition, the terminal device of the seventeenth invention is a terminal device that communicates with an avatar output device and displays an avatar for any one of the first to sixteenth inventions, and corresponds to the terminal device a terminal storage unit for storing one or more terminal attribute values including position information of the avatar to be sent, a terminal transmission unit for transmitting the position information to the avatar output device, and one or more other terminal devices from the avatar output device a terminal receiving unit for receiving position information of other avatars; and a terminal processing unit for acquiring scores of one or more other avatars using the position information of one or more other avatars and the position information, and a terminal transmitting unit. transmits the score of one or more other avatars or the determination result based on the score to the avatar output device in association with the terminal identifier of the terminal device, and the terminal receiving unit outputs the avatar in response to the transmission of the score or the determination result The terminal device further comprises a terminal output unit that receives model information of other avatars from the device and different model information according to scores or determination results, and displays one or more other avatars using the model information.

With this configuration, at least some of the avatars corresponding to each of the two or more terminal devices are avatars with a smaller data size, so that when outputting a large number of avatars, each of the two or more terminal devices Therefore, an appropriate avatar for the user can be obtained while suppressing the processing load.

ADVANTAGE OF THE INVENTION According to the avatar output device by this invention, when outputting many avatars, the avatar suitable for a user can be obtained, suppressing the load of a process.

Conceptual diagram of information system A in Embodiment 1 Block diagram of the same information system A Flowchart explaining an operation example of the same avatar output device 1 Flowchart explaining an example of the same avatar information acquisition processing Flowchart explaining an operation example of the terminal device 2 Flowchart explaining an example of the same score acquisition process Flowchart for explaining an example of the same display information configuration processing Flowchart for explaining an example of the same audio output processing Diagram for explaining a specific operation example of the information system A Diagram showing the same avatar management table Diagram showing the image of the judgment result Diagram showing the same output example Overview of the computer system Block diagram of the same computer system

Hereinafter, embodiments such as an avatar output device will be described with reference to the drawings. It should be noted that, since components denoted by the same reference numerals in the embodiments perform similar operations, repetitive description may be omitted.

(Embodiment 1)
In the present embodiment, among the avatars of two or more users staying in a virtual three-dimensional space (hereinafter simply referred to as "three-dimensional space" as appropriate), at least some of the avatars are small An information system outputting using size information will be described. The three-dimensional space is, for example, VR, but may be AR or the like.
The information system according to the present embodiment is, for example, a system in which two or more avatars, which are alter ego of each user, gather in a three-dimensional space and support communication between the users. This information system can also be applied to games and the like. This information system only needs to have a function of outputting avatars, and the range of application is not limited.
In addition, hereinafter, an avatar corresponding to one user out of two or more users is expressed as a self avatar, and other users are expressed as other avatars.

Further, in the present embodiment, for each terminal device, using the scores of two or more avatars, model information or voice information to be used for the avatar is determined, and using the determined model information or voice information , describes an information system for representing avatars. Note that scores are obtained using dynamic attribute values or static attribute values.

Furthermore, in the present embodiment, an information system will be described in which the avatar output device and the terminal device appropriately share the processing related to the avatar display in the three-dimensional space.

FIG. 1 is a conceptual diagram of an information system A according to this embodiment. An information system A includes an avatar output device 1 and one or more terminal devices 2 .

The avatar output device 1 is a device that performs processing for outputting an avatar. The avatar output device 1 here is usually a so-called server, but it may be a stand-alone device. The avatar output device 1 is, for example, a cloud server, an ASP server, or the like. In addition, the kind of the avatar output device 1 is not asked. Moreover, when the avatar output device 1 is a stand-alone device, the terminal device 2 is unnecessary, and the avatar output device 1 executes some of the functions of the terminal device 2, which will be described later.

The terminal device 2 is a terminal used by a user. The terminal device 2 is a terminal that outputs a self avatar corresponding to itself and one or more other avatars. One avatar corresponds to one terminal device 2, for example. Also, one avatar, for example, corresponds to one user. Other avatars are avatars corresponding to other users who use other terminal devices 2 . Note that two or more avatars may be associated with one user. That is, one user may switch between two or more avatars and use one of the two or more avatars. The terminal device 2 is, for example, a so-called personal computer, a tablet terminal, a smart phone, etc., and the type thereof does not matter. Note that output usually means display, but may also be transmission to a display device.

Note that the avatar is usually a character that is output as a user's alter ego. An avatar can be called a character.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram of the information system A according to this embodiment. The avatar output device 1 that constitutes the information system A includes a storage section 11 , a reception section 12 , a processing section 13 and an output section 14 .

The storage unit 11 includes a world storage unit 111 and an avatar storage unit 112 . The reception unit 12 includes, for example, an avatar reception unit 121 . The processing unit 13 includes, for example, a model compression unit 131, an avatar storage unit 132, a determination unit 133, an avatar acquisition unit 134, and a voice acquisition unit 135. The output unit 14 includes, for example, a position information transmission unit 141, an avatar output unit 142, and an audio output unit 143.

The terminal device 2 includes a terminal storage section 21 , a terminal reception section 22 , a terminal processing section 23 , a terminal transmission section 24 , a terminal reception section 25 and a terminal output section 26 .

Various types of information are stored in the storage unit 11 that constitutes the avatar output device 1 . The various types of information are, for example, world information, which will be described later, and avatar information, which will be described later.

World information is stored in the world storage unit 111 . The world information is information for configuring the world. The structure of the world information does not matter.

The avatar storage unit 112 stores one or more pieces of avatar information. Avatar information includes information for configuring an output avatar. Avatar information is information for each avatar. Avatar information is associated with an avatar identifier. Associated with an avatar identifier may be having an avatar identifier. The avatar identifier is, for example, the ID of the avatar, but may be the ID of the user corresponding to the avatar, the ID of the terminal device 2, or the like.

Avatar information has model information. The model information is information for configuring the display of the avatar. Model information includes, for example, mesh information, bone information, and material information. The model information has, for example, a data structure of glTF? (GL Transmission Format)?. However, the data structure of the model information may be VRM, OBJ, FBX, STL, GLB, COLLADA, etc., and the type does not matter.

Each avatar information here preferably has two or more types of model information with different data sizes. Avatar information has, for example, first model information and second model information. Here, "the data size of the first model information>the data size of the second model information". The second model information is, for example, model information obtained by compressing the data size of the first model information. Any compression algorithm may be used. The second model information is, for example, model information obtained by forming one piece of mesh information (integrating the meshes) from two or more pieces of mesh information included in the first model information and reducing the mesh information. The second model information is model information whose data size is reduced by, for example, reducing the gradation of the color information included in the first model information. The second model information is, for example, model information whose data size is reduced by converting the texture of the first model information into an atlas.

The first model information is, for example, information transmitted from the terminal device 2 in association with the avatar identifier. Note that the avatar identifier may be a terminal identifier. Also, the first model information may be information acquired using the original information transmitted from the terminal device 2, for example. The original information may be model information or an identifier that identifies the model information.

In addition to the model information, the avatar information preferably has voice information and one or more attribute values.

The audio information is information on the audio uttered by the avatar. The data structure and data format of the audio information are irrelevant. The avatar information preferably has two or more types of audio information with different data sizes or attribute values. Avatar information has, for example, first audio information and second audio information. For example, "data size of first audio information>data size of second audio information". Also, for example, "the volume as the attribute value of the first audio information>the volume as the attribute value of the second audio information". Also, for example, "the sampling frequency that is the attribute value of the first audio information>the sampling frequency that is the attribute value of the second audio information". Further, for example, "height (frequency) as an attribute value of the first audio information>height (frequency) as an attribute value of the second audio information".

Each attribute value of 1 or more is the attribute value of the avatar. Attribute values are, for example, dynamic attribute values or static attribute values.

A dynamic attribute value is an attribute value that can change dynamically. Dynamic attribute values are, for example, location information and orientation information.

The positional information is information specifying the position of the avatar in the field. The location information is, for example, location information input by the user. The location information input by the user is usually information determined by the user's operation to move the avatar. Positional information is information that specifies an absolute position in a field (which may be called the world). For example, three-dimensional coordinates (x, y, z) or two-dimensional coordinates be.

Orientation information is information that specifies the orientation of the avatar in the field. Direction information is, for example, an angle with respect to a reference direction. A reference direction is information specifying an absolute direction in a field (which may be called a world). Direction information is, for example, information indicating whether or not the player is facing the front in the field.

A static attribute value is an attribute value that does not change dynamically. Static attribute values are, for example, role attribute values, source attribute values, and terminal attribute values.

The role attribute value is information regarding the role of the avatar. Role attribute values are, for example, "host", "moderator", and "spectator". Note that the “sponsor” is the organizer when holding an event using avatars in a virtual three-dimensional space. A “moderator” is a moderator when holding an event using an avatar in a virtual three-dimensional space. The "audience" is a spectator when an event using avatars is held in a virtual three-dimensional space.

The origin attribute value is information regarding the origin of the avatar. The origin attribute value is, for example, information indicating whether or not it is an avatar (UGC) created by a user.

The terminal attribute value is information regarding the terminal device 2 corresponding to the avatar. The terminal attribute value is, for example, a terminal type identifier that specifies the type of the terminal device 2 (eg, "PC", "smartphone", "tablet"), information that specifies the capability of the processor of the terminal device 2 (eg, capability level, operating frequency (GHz)), the screen size of the terminal device 2, and the aspect ratio.

The reception unit 12 receives various information and instructions. The reception here is usually reception from the terminal device 2, but reception of information input from an input device such as a keyboard, mouse, or touch panel, or reading from a recording medium such as an optical disk, magnetic disk, or semiconductor memory. Receipt of issued information or the like is also acceptable.

Various information and instructions are, for example, avatar information, voice information, and requests. The avatar information to be accepted does not have to have the same structure as the avatar information in the avatar storage unit 112 . Accepted avatar information includes, for example, first model information and location information.

A request is a request to send an avatar. The request is, for example, a request regarding display of other avatars, and has one or more pairs of avatar identifiers and model information indicating other avatars. A request may comprise, for example, an indication to send world information.

The avatar receiving unit 121 receives first model information or original information from each of two or more terminal devices 2 used by the user. The source information is information that is the source of the first model information. The original information is, for example, model information, but may be an identifier of the first model information.

It is preferable that the avatar receiving unit 121 also receive position information specifying the position of the avatar corresponding to each terminal device 2 from each of two or more terminal devices 2 . Note that the avatar receiving unit 121 preferably receives the first model information or the original information, the position information, and the avatar identifier from each of two or more terminal devices 2 in association with each other. However, the first model information or original information and the position information may be associated with each other and may be received separately. Note that the avatar identifier is information for identifying an avatar, such as an ID and a user name. Also, a unique avatar identifier may be acquired in response to the avatar receiving unit 121 receiving the first model information or the original information from the terminal device 2 .

It is preferable that the avatar reception unit 121 also receive voice information and position information. Avatar receiving section 121 preferably receives the audio information in association with the avatar identifier.

The avatar receiving unit 121 may receive avatar information including first model information and second model information from each of two or more terminal devices 2 . In such a case, the terminal device 2 may perform processing for acquiring the second model information based on the first model information.

It is preferable that the avatar receiving unit 121 receives the score or determination result of one or more other avatars acquired by each terminal device 2 from each of two or more terminal devices 2 in association with the avatar identifier. The avatar receiving section 121 may also receive the score or determination result of the own avatar for each terminal device 2 . Note that the determination result is information for determining the type of avatar model information. The determination result is, for example, information determined based on the score. The determination result is, for example, a type identifier specifying the type of model information. The determination result is, for example, "first" corresponding to the first model information and "second" corresponding to the second model information.

Note that other avatars are avatars that are not the own avatar. The own avatar is an avatar corresponding to the terminal device 2 . When the avatar receiving section 121 does not receive the score of the own avatar, the score of the own avatar is normally the default value (for example, the highest score). Note that the score of the other avatar for the terminal device 2 is information specifying the importance of the other avatar for the terminal device 2 . The score is, for example, 0 to 100, 10-level evaluation, etc., but the range is not limited.

The processing unit 13 performs various types of processing. Various processes are processes performed by the model compression unit 131, the avatar accumulation unit 132, the determination unit 133, the avatar acquisition unit 134, and the voice acquisition unit 135, for example.

The processing unit 13 acquires world information in the world storage unit 111, for example.

The model compression unit 131 acquires second model information using the first model information or original information. The second model information is model information with a smaller data size than the first model information.

Note that the processing performed by the model compression unit 131 does not matter. The model compression unit 131, for example, configures one piece of mesh information from two or more pieces of mesh information included in the first model information or original information, and acquires second model information in which the number of pieces of mesh information is reduced. In such a case, the second model information is, for example, M less than N (M is a natural number of 1 or more) obtained using N (N is a natural number of 2 or more) mesh information possessed by the first model information. Model information with mesh information.

The model compression unit 131 also obtains second model information with a reduced data size, for example, by reducing the gradation of the color information included in the first model information or the original information. The model compression unit 131 acquires the second model information with a reduced data size, for example, by atlasing the texture of the first model information or the original information.

It is preferable that the model compression unit 131 compresses only the information of a part of the avatar (for example, the parts other than the body part and the face part) included in the first model information, and acquires the second model information.

The avatar accumulation unit 132 accumulates in the avatar storage unit 112 the first model information received by the avatar reception unit 121 or the avatar information having the first model information acquired using the original information received by the avatar reception unit 121. .

The avatar accumulation unit 132 accumulates, in the avatar storage unit 112, avatar information including one or more of the position information and the voice information received by the avatar reception unit 121, for example.

The avatar storage unit 132 stores, for example, avatar information having first model information and second model information in the avatar storage unit 112 .

The avatar accumulation unit 132 accumulates, in the avatar storage unit 112, avatar information including the first model information and the second model information acquired by the model compression unit 131, for example.

Note that the accumulation processing performed by the avatar accumulation unit 132 may be temporary accumulation.

The determination unit 133 determines one or more first avatars and one or more second avatars among the two or more avatars. Note that the first avatar is an avatar displayed using the first model information. A second avatar is an avatar displayed using the second model information. Note that the processing for determination is, for example, acquiring a type identifier corresponding to a score paired with an avatar identifier or a determination result, acquiring a type identifier received from the terminal device 2, or the like. The type identifiers are, for example, "first avatar" and "second avatar".

For example, for each avatar identifier included in the received request, the determining unit 133 acquires the type identifier corresponding to the score paired with the avatar identifier or the determination result.

When there are three or more types of model information, the determination unit 133 determines one or more first avatars, one or more second avatars, and one or more third avatars among the three or more avatars.

The determining unit 133 determines which of at least two types of avatars each of the two or more avatars is. The determination unit 133 may determine which of the three or more types of avatars each of the two or more avatars. Note that avatars are usually associated with users or terminal devices 2 .

The determining unit 133 normally determines one or more first avatars and one or more second avatars for each terminal device 2 . That is, it is preferable that the type of model information differs depending on the terminal device 2 even for the same other avatar.

The determination unit 133 determines one or more second avatars for each of the two or more terminal devices based on the scores obtained using the one or more dynamic attribute values corresponding to the two or more avatars. is preferred.

The determination unit 133 may determine one or more second avatars using information based on one or more static attribute values corresponding to each of the two or more avatars.

The determination unit 133 determines one or more first avatars and one or more second avatars for each of the two or more avatars for each of the two or more terminal devices using the score or the determination result. The score or determination result may be information received from the terminal device 2 or information acquired by the avatar output device 1 .

The determination unit 133 determines the first avatar and the second avatar, for example, based on the score or determination result.

For example, the determining unit 133 determines, as the first avatar, an avatar identified by an avatar identifier paired with a score high enough to satisfy the score condition, and an avatar identified by an avatar identifier paired with a score low enough not to satisfy the score condition to be the first avatar. determine the avatar to be the second avatar.

The score conditions are, for example, "score is greater than threshold", "score is greater than threshold", "score is within top N (N is a natural number)", and "score is higher than top N (N is a natural number)".

For example, the determination unit 133 determines the avatar identified by the avatar identifier paired with the determination result "first" as the first avatar, and selects the avatar identified by the avatar identifier paired with the determination result "second" as the first avatar. Decide on the second avatar.

The determination unit 133 determines whether each other avatar is one of two or more types of avatars, for example, using the scores or determination results of the one or more other avatars received from the terminal device 2 .

For example, the determination unit 133 performs score acquisition processing for each of the one or more other avatars using the one or more attribute values received from the terminal device 2, and based on the score, each other avatar has two or more types of avatars. Determine which one of the avatars. Note that each terminal device 2 may perform the score acquisition process.

The determination unit 133 performs, for example, the following score acquisition process. That is, the determining unit 133 uses the one or more attribute values received from each of the two or more terminal devices 2 and the position information of each avatar to determine one or more other avatars for each of the two or more terminal devices 2. get the score of The one or more attribute values received from each terminal device 2 include, for example, the position information of the own avatar and the direction information of the own avatar.

Specifically, the determination unit 133, for example, determines the location information of the own avatar received from the terminal device 2, the orientation information of the own avatar received from the terminal device 2, the camera attribute value, the positions of one or more other avatars, and the like. Two or more of the information are used to obtain dynamic attribute values of one or more other avatars. Note that the camera attribute values are, for example, camera position information specifying the position of the camera, camera direction information specifying the direction of the camera, and angle of view information specifying the angle of view of the camera. Camera attribute values are stored in the storage unit 11, for example. Also, the angle-of-view information is usually the horizontal angle range of the camera and the vertical angle range of the camera. Note that the camera here is a camera installed in a virtual three-dimensional space.

The determining unit 133 acquires the distance between the own avatar and the other avatars, for example, using the position information of the own avatar and the position information of the other avatars. Further, the determining unit 133, for example, uses the position information of the own avatar, the orientation information of the own avatar, and the position information of the other avatars to dynamically determine whether or not the other avatar is within the field of view of the own avatar. Acquire an attribute value (which may be called an in-field attribute value). In addition, the determination unit 133 uses, for example, the camera position information, the camera direction information, the angle of view information, and the position information of the other avatar to determine whether or not the other avatar is within the shooting range of the camera. Acquire a value (which may be called a shooting range attribute value).

Then, the determination unit 133 acquires, for example, a larger score for the other avatar as the distance is closer. Also, the determination unit 133 acquires a higher score when the object is in the field of view than when the object is not in the field of view, for example. In addition, for example, the determining unit 133 obtains a higher score when the object is within the imaging range of the camera than when it is not within the imaging range.

More specifically, the determining unit 133 acquires scores of other avatars, for example, using a decreasing function with distance as a parameter. For example, the determination unit 133 acquires scores corresponding to the distance, the in-field attribute value, and the shooting range attribute value from the correspondence table. In such a case, the correspondence table is, for example, a table having two or more pieces of correspondence information indicating correspondence between sets of distance ranges, in-field attribute values, and shooting range attribute values, and scores.

Also, the determination unit 133 may perform the following score acquisition processing using, for example, one or more static attribute values. The one or more static attribute values include, for example, attribute values related to the role of the avatar and attribute values related to the origin of the avatar.

For example, when the other avatar has the role of "organizer" or "moderator", the determination unit 133 obtains a higher score than when the other avatar has the role of "spectator". For example, when the other avatar is UGC, the determination unit 133 acquires a higher score than when the other avatar is not UGC.

The determination unit 133 may determine, for example, based only on the in-field attribute value or the shooting range attribute value. The algorithm of the decision processing by the decision unit 133 does not matter. Moreover, when the determining unit 133 acquires the score, the algorithm for acquiring the score does not matter.

For example, the determining unit 133 determines one or more first avatars that are avatars corresponding to the first audio information and one or more second avatars that are avatars corresponding to the second audio information, among the two or more avatars. do. The second audio information is audio information having a data size smaller than that of the first audio information or audio information having an attribute value different from that of the first audio information. Note that the different attribute values are volume and frequency, for example.

The determination unit 133 determines the type of voice information of the other avatar, for example, based on the score or determination result of the other avatar. The determination unit 133 determines types such as a first avatar and a second avatar based on scores or determination results of other avatars, for example, and determines types of voice information corresponding to the types.

The avatar acquisition unit 134 acquires the avatar using the second model information from the avatar storage unit 112 for each of the one or more second avatars determined by the determination unit 133, An avatar using one model information is acquired from the avatar storage unit 112 .

Acquiring an avatar may be acquiring model information, acquiring avatar information including model information, acquiring avatar information including model information and voice information, or acquiring model information. A model identifier that identifies the information (for example, information that identifies the first avatar or the second avatar, information that identifies the type of model information) may be acquired, or a voice identifier that identifies the voice information (for example, the second avatar) may be acquired. Information identifying the first avatar or the second avatar, information identifying the type of voice information) may be acquired.

For example, for one or more second avatars determined by the determination unit 133, the avatar acquisition unit 134 reads the second model information and configures the avatar using the second model information.

The voice acquisition unit 135 acquires second voice information for each of the one or more second avatars determined by the determination unit 133, and acquires first voice information for each of the one or more first avatars.

The output unit 14 outputs various information. Here, the output is usually transmission to the terminal device 2, but display on a display, projection using a projector, printing on a printer, sound output, storage on a recording medium, other processing devices or other The concept may include delivery of the processing result to a program or the like.

The output unit 14 , for example, transmits the world information in the world storage unit 111 to each of two or more terminal devices 2 .

The position information transmitting unit 141 associates the position information of one or more other avatars among the position information of each of two or more avatars corresponding to each of two or more terminal devices 2 with an avatar identifier that identifies the avatar, Send to each of the above terminal devices. The position information of one or more other avatars is, for example, information transmitted by the terminal device 2 corresponding to each other avatar. The location information of one or more other avatars does not have to include the location information of the own avatar in each terminal device 2 . The position information transmission unit 141 may not transmit the position information of the own avatar corresponding to the terminal device 2 to each of the two or more terminal devices 2, and may also transmit the position information of the own avatar.

Avatar output unit 142 outputs two or more avatars acquired by avatar acquisition unit 134 . Here, the output is usually transmission to the terminal device 2, but display on a display, projection using a projector, storage in a recording medium, processing results in other processing devices or other programs, etc. It may be a concept including handing over.

Also, the output of the avatar may be transmission of model information or transmission of a model identifier. It is sufficient if the terminal device 2 outputs an avatar.

The avatar output unit 142 normally transmits the two or more avatars acquired by the avatar acquisition unit 134 to the two or more terminal devices 2 for each of the two or more terminal devices 2 .

The avatar output unit 142 uses one or more avatar identifiers included in the received request to send information having a pair of model information and an avatar identifier corresponding to each avatar identifier to the terminal that has transmitted the request. Send to device 2.

When the received request includes an instruction to transmit world information, the avatar output unit 142 transmits the world information to the terminal device 2 that has transmitted the request.

The avatar output by the avatar output unit 142 may not be completely the same as the avatar information displayed on the terminal device 2 . The avatar output by the avatar output unit 142 may be information for configuring the avatar displayed on the terminal device 2 . Outputting the avatar may be outputting an image including the avatar.

The audio output unit 143 outputs the first audio information and the second audio information acquired by the audio acquisition unit 135 . The output of the first audio information and the second audio information may be output of an identifier for identifying the first audio information and an identifier for identifying the second audio information.

It is preferable that the audio output unit 143 outputs the type of audio information according to the score of the avatar or the determination result.

Here, the output is usually transmission to the terminal device 2, but the concept includes sound output, storage in a recording medium, delivery of processing results to other processing devices and other programs, and the like. Also good.

The first audio information and the second audio information output by the audio output unit 143 may not be the same information as the audio output by the terminal device 2 .

One or more terminal attribute values are stored in the terminal storage unit 21 constituting the terminal device 2 . A terminal attribute value is an attribute value of the terminal device 2 . The attribute values of the terminal device 2 are, for example, the terminal type identifier of the terminal device 2, the screen size of the terminal device 2, and the aspect ratio. The terminal storage unit 21 may store position information, first model information, or original information.

The terminal reception unit 22 receives various instructions and information. Various instructions and information are, for example, position information, first model information, an identifier for identifying the first model information, an avatar identifier, one or more attribute values, and an initial input. One or more attribute values are, for example, a role attribute value, an origin attribute value, and a terminal attribute value.

Note that the initial input is an input before a three-dimensional space including two or more avatars is output to the terminal device 2, and includes avatar position information. The initial input includes one or more score source attribute values. The initial input preferably includes avatar model information or source information. Initial input may include an avatar identifier. The model information included in the initial input is preferably first model information. A score acquisition source attribute value is an attribute value from which a score is acquired, and includes position information. The score source attribute value typically includes orientation information.

Here, reception means reception of information input from input devices such as keyboards, mice, and touch panels, reception of information transmitted via wired or wireless communication lines, and recording on optical discs, magnetic discs, semiconductor memories, etc. This is a concept that includes acceptance of information read from a medium.

The terminal processing unit 23 performs various types of processing. The various types of processing are, for example, score acquisition processing described later and avatar configuration processing described later. When the avatar output device 1 obtains the score, the terminal processing unit 23 does not perform the score obtaining process.

The terminal processing unit 23 acquires scores of one or more other avatars, for example, using position information of one or more other avatars and one or more terminal attribute values.

The terminal processing unit 23 acquires scores of one or more other avatars, for example, using position information of one or more other avatars in one or more other terminal devices 2 and position information of the own avatar.

Specifically, the terminal processing unit 23, for example, among position information of its own avatar, orientation information of its own avatar, camera position information, camera orientation information, angle of view information of the camera, position information of one or more other avatars, obtains dynamic attribute values of one or more other avatars using two or more pieces of information of

The terminal processing unit 23 acquires the distance between the own avatar and the other avatars, for example, using the position information of the own avatar and the position information of the other avatars. In addition, the terminal processing unit 23 uses, for example, the position information of the own avatar, the direction information of the own avatar, and the position information of the other avatars, to generate an animation indicating whether or not the other avatar is within the field of view of the own avatar. Acquire a target attribute value (which may be called an in-field attribute value). In addition, the terminal processing unit 23 uses, for example, the camera position information, the camera orientation information, the angle of view information, and other avatar position information to determine whether or not the other avatar is within the shooting range of the camera. Acquire a value (which may be called a shooting range attribute value).

Then, the terminal processing unit 23 acquires, for example, a larger score for other avatars as the distance to the own avatar in the three-dimensional space is shorter. Also, the terminal processing unit 23 acquires a higher score when, for example, another avatar is within the field of view of the own avatar, compared to when the other avatar is not within the field of view. In addition, the terminal processing unit 23 acquires a higher score when, for example, the terminal is within the shooting range of the camera than when it is not within the shooting range.

For example, the terminal processing unit 23 acquires a score of a larger value as the distance to the camera is closer to other avatars.

More specifically, the terminal processing unit 23 acquires the scores of the other avatars, for example, using a decreasing function with the distance as a parameter. For example, the terminal processing unit 23 acquires scores corresponding to the distance, the in-field attribute value, and the shooting range attribute value from the correspondence table. In such a case, the correspondence table is, for example, a table having two or more pieces of correspondence information indicating correspondence between sets of distance ranges, in-field attribute values, and shooting range attribute values, and scores.

Also, the terminal processing unit 23 may perform the following other avatar score acquisition processing, for example, using one or more static attribute values of the other avatar.

One or more static attribute values include, for example, attribute values related to roles of other avatars and attribute values related to origins of other avatars. For example, the terminal processing unit 23 obtains a higher score when the role of the other avatar is "host" or "moderator" than when the role of the other avatar is "spectator". For example, when the other avatar is UGC, the terminal processing unit 23 obtains a higher score than when the other avatar is not UGC.

Further, the terminal processing unit 23 may acquire the determination result corresponding to each other avatar, for example, using one or more scores of each other avatar. The terminal processing unit 23 refers to a correspondence table having two or more pieces of correspondence information indicating correspondences between score ranges and determination results, and acquires the determination results paired with the scores for each of the other avatars. The terminal processing unit 23, for example, substitutes the score into an arithmetic expression having the score as a parameter, executes the arithmetic expression, and acquires the determination result. Note that the determination result is the result of determining which of two or more avatars (for example, the first avatar and the second avatar) should be used when outputting the other avatar.

Also, the terminal processing unit 23 acquires model information for one or more other avatars from the avatar output device 1, for example, and performs avatar configuration processing for configuring a displayed avatar using the model information. Note that the avatar configuration processing is a known technique.

Further, the terminal processing unit 23 uses the received world information to construct a world, arranges two or more avatars in the world, and constructs a three-dimensional space in which the avatars are arranged. Note that the terminal processing unit 23 arranges each of the two or more avatars at positions specified by the corresponding position information.

The terminal transmission section 24 transmits various kinds of information to the avatar output device 1 . The terminal transmission unit 24 transmits, for example, position information of the own avatar corresponding to the terminal device 2 to the avatar output device 1 . The terminal transmission unit 24 transmits, for example, one or more attribute values in the terminal storage unit 21 to the avatar output device 1 . The one or more attribute values are, for example, self-avatar position information, self-avatar orientation information, and terminal attribute values.

The terminal transmission unit 24 transmits scores or determination results of one or more other avatars to the avatar output device 1 in association with the terminal identifier of the terminal device 2 . Note that the score or determination result transmitted here is information acquired by the terminal processing unit 23 . Also, the score or determination result is associated with the avatar identifiers of other avatars. Note that when the avatar output device 1 obtains the score, the terminal transmission unit 24 does not transmit the score to the avatar output device 1 . When the avatar output device 1 acquires the determination result, the terminal transmission unit 24 does not transmit the determination result to the avatar output device 1 .

The terminal receiving unit 25 receives position information of other avatars corresponding to one or more other terminal devices 2 from the avatar output device 1 . The terminal reception unit 25 receives, for example, one or more attribute values of other avatars from the avatar output device 1 .

The terminal receiving unit 25 receives model information of other avatars from the avatar output device 1, which is different model information according to the score or determination result.

The terminal reception unit 25 may receive two or more types of model information for each avatar. In such a case, the terminal processing unit 23 determines model information to be used when displaying the other avatar according to the scores or determination results of the other avatars.

It is preferable that the terminal reception unit 25 also receive world information from the avatar output device 1 .

The terminal output unit 26 displays one or more other avatars configured using one or more pieces of model information. Note that the display may be transmitted to another display medium. Also, the model information is one of two or more types of model information.

It is preferable that the terminal output unit 26 also displays the own avatar.

It is preferable that the terminal output unit 26 also use the world information to display the world.

The terminal output unit 26 preferably outputs audio information corresponding to the avatar. The audio information to be output is preferably the type of audio information (eg, first or second audio information) according to the avatar's score or determination result.

The storage unit 11, the world storage unit 111, the avatar storage unit 112, and the terminal storage unit 21 are preferably non-volatile recording media, but can also be realized with volatile recording media.

It does not matter how the information is stored in the storage unit 11 or the like. For example, information may be stored in the storage unit 11 or the like via a recording medium, or information transmitted via a communication line or the like may be stored in the storage unit 11 or the like. Alternatively, information input via an input device may be stored in the storage unit 11 or the like.

The reception unit 12, the avatar reception unit 121, and the terminal reception unit 25 are usually realized by wireless or wired communication means.

The processing unit 13, the model compression unit 131, the avatar storage unit 132, the determination unit 133, the avatar acquisition unit 134, the voice acquisition unit 135, and the terminal processing unit 23 can usually be implemented by a processor, memory, or the like. The processing procedure of the processing unit 13 and the like is normally realized by software, and the software is recorded in a recording medium such as a ROM. However, it may be realized by hardware (dedicated circuit). Note that the processor may be MPU, CPU, GPU, or the like, and may be of any type.

The output unit 14, the position information transmission unit 141, the avatar output unit 142, and the voice output unit 143 are usually realized by wireless or wired communication means.

The terminal reception unit 22 can be realized by a device driver for input means such as a touch panel or a keyboard, control software for a menu screen, or the like.

The terminal output unit 26 may or may not include an output device such as a display or speaker. The terminal output unit 26 can be realized by output device driver software, or by output device driver software and an output device.

Next, an operation example of the information system A will be described. First, an operation example of the avatar output device 1 will be described using the flowchart of FIG.

(Step S<b>301 ) The avatar reception unit 121 determines whether model information or the like has been received from the terminal device 2 . If the model information or the like has been received, the process goes to step S302, and if the model information or the like has not been received, the process goes to step S303. The model information or the like is information including first model information or original information of the avatar corresponding to the terminal device 2 . The model information and the like preferably include position information of the avatar corresponding to the terminal device 2, for example. Model information and the like may include avatar identifiers. As for the avatar identifier, the processing unit 13 may acquire a unique avatar identifier in response to receiving model information or the like. It doesn't matter how you get the unique avatar identifier. Also, in step S301, model information and the like are received from each of two or more terminal devices 2. FIG.

(Step S302) The avatar storage unit 132 stores the received model information and the like in association with the avatar identifier. Return to step S301.

(Step S303) The processing unit 13 determines whether or not to start compression processing or the like. If the compression process or the like is to be started, the process goes to step S304, and if the compression process or the like is not to be started, the process goes to step S312. Note that the compression process and the like are the processes from steps S304 to S311. Moreover, the conditions for starting the compression processing and the like are not limited. Such conditions are, for example, that a predetermined time has come, and that the processing unit 13 has determined that the model information and the like have been received from all the terminal devices 2 scheduled to participate. Further, such a condition is, for example, that the reception unit 12 has received a request for compression processing or the like from the terminal device 2 .

(Step S304) The processing unit 13 substitutes 1 for the counter i.

(Step S305) It is determined whether or not the avatar identifier of the i-th avatar to be subjected to compression processing or the like exists. If the i-th avatar identifier exists, go to step S306, otherwise go to step S310.

(Step S306) The model compression unit 131 acquires the first model information of the i-th avatar identifier.

The model compression unit 131 may acquire the received first model information, or may acquire the first model information corresponding to the received original information. That is, the model compression unit 131 acquires, for example, the first model information paired with the i-th avatar identifier from the avatar storage unit 112 . For example, the model compression unit 131 acquires the original information paired with the i-th avatar identifier from the avatar storage unit 112, and acquires the first model information using the original information. In such a case, the original information is, for example, the identifier of the first model information, or the model information that constitutes the first model information.

(Step S307) The model compression unit 131 acquires one or more types of model information having a data size smaller than that of the first model information acquired in step S306. The one or more types of model information includes second model information.

(Step S308) The avatar storage unit 132 stores avatar information including the first model information and the second model information in the avatar storage unit 112 in association with the i-th avatar identifier. Accumulating avatar information means accumulating avatar information, and the information originally stored in avatar storage unit 112 need not be accumulated here.

(Step S309) The processing unit 13 increments the counter i by 1. Return to step S305.

(Step S310) The processing unit 13 acquires one or more score acquisition source attribute values of all avatars in association with avatar identifiers. Note that the score acquisition source attribute value is an attribute value from which a score is acquired, and includes position information. The score source attribute value typically includes orientation information.

(Step S311) The location information transmission unit 141 associates one or more score acquisition source attribute values of each avatar acquired in step S310 with the avatar identifier and transmits them to all two or more terminal devices 2. FIG. Return to step S301.

(Step S<b>312 ) The reception unit 12 determines whether or not a request has been received from the terminal device 2 . If the request has been received, the process goes to step S313, and if the request has not been received, the process returns to step S301. In step S312, requests are received from all two or more terminal devices 2. FIG. The request includes determination results or scores of one or more other avatars associated with the avatar identifier.

(Step S313) The processing unit 13 performs avatar information acquisition processing. The avatar information acquisition process is a process of acquiring model information and the like for displaying an avatar. Also, the avatar information acquisition process may acquire world information. An example of avatar information acquisition processing will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

(Step S314) The avatar output unit 142 transmits the information acquired in step S313 to the terminal device 2 that transmitted the request. Return to step S301. The transmitted information usually includes avatar model information.

Note that in the flowchart of FIG. 3, the process ends when the power is turned off or an interrupt for ending the process occurs.

Next, an example of avatar information acquisition processing in step S313 will be described using the flowchart of FIG.

(Step S401) The determination unit 133 substitutes 1 for the counter i.

(Step S402) The determination unit 133 determines whether or not the i-th avatar identifier corresponding to the avatar information acquisition process exists. If the i-th avatar identifier exists, go to step S403, and if the i-th avatar identifier does not exist, go to step S406. Note that the i-th avatar identifier is usually the i-th avatar identifier included in the received request.

(Step S403) The determination unit 133 acquires the determination result or score corresponding to the i-th avatar identifier. Also, when a score is acquired, the determination unit 133 acquires a determination result corresponding to the score. Note that the determination result is usually a type identifier that specifies the type of model information to be acquired. The type identifier is, for example, "first" corresponding to the first model information and "second" corresponding to the second model information.

(Step S404) The avatar acquisition unit 134 acquires model information corresponding to the i-th avatar identifier and the determination result in association with the i-th avatar identifier.

The avatar acquisition unit 134 acquires the model information from the avatar storage unit 112, for example. The avatar acquisition unit 134, for example, generates the model information from the first model information.

(Step S405) The determination unit 133 increments the counter i by 1. Return to step S402.

(Step S406) The avatar acquisition unit 134 determines whether or not to transmit world information. If the world information is to be transmitted, go to step S407; if not, go to step S408. It should be noted that when world information is transmitted, it is usually the case that world information has not been transmitted to the terminal device 2 even once since the start of the operation.

(Step S<b>407 ) The avatar acquisition unit 134 acquires world information from the world storage unit 111 .

(Step S408) The avatar acquisition unit 134 configures information including model information associated with one or more avatar identifiers. Return to upper process.

Note that such information may include world information. Such information is information transmitted to the terminal device 2 .

Next, an operation example of the terminal device 2 will be described using the flowchart of FIG.

(Step S501) The terminal reception unit 22 determines whether or not an initial input, which is an input before the start of operation, has been received. If the initial input is accepted, the process goes to step S502, and if the initial input is not accepted, the process goes to step S512. Note that the initial input includes one or more score acquisition source attribute values.

(Step S502) The terminal processing unit 23 uses the initial input received in step S501 to construct information to be transmitted. The terminal transmission unit 24 transmits the information to the avatar output device 1 . Note that the information includes, for example, model information, position information, direction information, and the like.

(Step S503) The terminal reception unit 25 determines whether or not the score acquisition source attribute values of all avatars have been received in response to the transmission in step S502. If the score acquisition source attribute value has been received, the process proceeds to step S504, and if the score acquisition source attribute value has not been received, the process returns to step S503. Note that the terminal receiving unit 25 receives one or more score acquisition source attribute values for each avatar in association with the avatar identifier of each avatar.

(Step S504) The terminal processing unit 23 acquires the score of each avatar using one or more score acquisition source attribute values of each avatar. An example of such score acquisition processing will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. In addition, in the score acquisition process, the terminal processing unit 23 may acquire the score and use the score to acquire the determination result. In the score acquisition process, the terminal processing unit 23 may acquire the score and not acquire the determination result. In such a case, the avatar output device 1 acquires the determination result.

(Step S505) The terminal processing unit 23 forms a request using the score or determination result acquired in step S504. Note that the request has a score or determination result associated with each avatar's avatar identifier.

(Step S<b>506 ) The terminal transmission unit 24 transmits the request configured in step S<b>505 to the avatar output device 1 . The request may include, for example, the score obtained for each of the other avatars and the corresponding avatar identifier. good too.

(Step S507) The terminal reception unit 25 determines whether information has been received in response to the transmission of the request in step S506. If the information has been received, the process goes to step S508, and if the information has not been received, the process returns to step S507. The information usually includes model information of one or more avatars output by the avatar output device 1 in response to a request. Also, the information preferably includes world information. The information may also include audio information associated with each of the one or more avatar identifiers. Further, the received information is temporarily accumulated in the terminal storage unit 21 at least.

(Step S508) The terminal processing unit 23 performs display information configuration processing using the information received in step S507. The display information configuration processing is processing for configuring information to be displayed on the terminal device 2 . An example of display information configuration processing will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

(Step S509) The terminal output unit 26 outputs the information configured in step S508. Note that the output information usually includes the world and one or more avatars.

(Step S510) The terminal processing unit 23 determines whether or not the information received in step S507 includes voice information. If the voice information is present, the process goes to step S511, and if the voice information is not present, the process returns to step S501.

(Step S511) The processing unit 13 and the like perform voice output processing. Return to step S501. An example of audio output processing will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

(Step S512) The terminal reception unit 22 determines whether or not an input from the user has been received. If the input is accepted, the process goes to step S513, and if the input is not accepted, the process goes to step S519. The input from the user is, for example, an input to change the location information of the own avatar, an input to change the orientation information of the own avatar, and voice information of the own avatar.

(Step S513) Based on the input in step S512, the terminal processing unit 23 acquires attribute values (for example, changed position information of the own avatar, changed direction information of the own avatar, etc.). The terminal processing unit 23 acquires the score to be changed based on the input. Also, in step S519, when information is received, the terminal processing unit 23 acquires a score to be changed based on the received information. Such score acquisition processing will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

(Step S514) The terminal processing unit 23 forms a request using the score or determination result acquired in step S504. Note that the request has a score or determination result associated with each avatar's avatar identifier.

Also, in the case of sending a request for the second time or later, the terminal processing unit 23 preferably composes a request regarding an avatar for which a score or determination result different from the previous score or determination result is obtained. Such requests do not include scores or judgments for avatars whose scores or judgments do not change. Such requests include the avatar identifiers of avatars with different scores or verdicts and the scores or verdicts.

Further, if there is no change in the score or determination result of each avatar, the request may not be configured in step S514.

(Step S515) In step S514, the terminal processing unit 23 determines whether or not a request has been configured. If the request is configured, go to step S506; if the request is not configured, go to step S516.

(Step S516) The terminal processing unit 23 determines whether or not to transmit the information corresponding to the input in step S512. If information is to be transmitted, go to step S517; if information is not to be transmitted, go to step S508. The information corresponding to the input is, for example, voice information input by the user, and information regarding the new position and orientation of the own avatar after the input.

(Step S517) The terminal processing unit 23 configures transmission information corresponding to the input in step S512.

(Step S518) The terminal transmission unit 24 pairs the transmission information configured in step S517 with its own avatar identifier and transmits it to the avatar output device 1 . Go to step S508.

(Step S<b>519 ) The terminal reception unit determines whether information has been received from the avatar output device 1 . If the information has been received, the process goes to step S513, and if the information has not been received, the process returns to step S501. The information is, for example, voice information, changed position information of other avatars, and changed direction information of other avatars.

Note that in the flowchart of FIG. 5, the process ends when the power is turned off or an interrupt to end the process occurs.

Next, an example of score acquisition processing in step S504 will be described using the flowchart of FIG.

(Step S601) The terminal processing unit 23 acquires one or more attribute values for acquiring a score. One or more attribute values here include position information of the own avatar. The one or more attribute values here include, for example, orientation information of the own avatar, camera position information, camera orientation information, and camera angle of view information.

(Step S602) The terminal processing unit 23 substitutes 1 for the counter i.

(Step S603) The terminal processing unit 23 determines whether or not there is an avatar identifier of the i-th avatar whose score is to be acquired. If the i-th avatar identifier exists, go to step S604; otherwise, return to the upper process.

(Step S604) The terminal processing unit 23 acquires one or more score acquisition source attribute values paired with the i-th avatar identifier. Note that one or more score acquisition source attribute values are, for example, position information, direction information, role attribute value, and origin attribute value of the i-th avatar.

(Step S605) The terminal processing unit 23 acquires the user visual field attribute value using the position information of the own avatar, the orientation information of the own avatar, and the position information of the i-th avatar. Note that the user visual field attribute value is information indicating whether or not the i-th avatar exists within the visual field of the own avatar.

(Step S606) The terminal processing unit 23 acquires the camera view attribute value using the camera position information, the camera direction information, the angle of view information of the camera, and the position information of the i-th avatar. Note that the camera field of view attribute value is information indicating whether or not the i-th avatar is within the imaging range of the camera.

(Step S607) The terminal processing unit 23 acquires the user distance attribute value using the position information of its own avatar and the position information of the i-th avatar. Note that the user distance attribute value is information specifying the distance between the own avatar and the i-th avatar.

(Step S608) The terminal processing unit 23 acquires the user orientation attribute value using the orientation information of the own avatar and the orientation information of the i-th avatar. Note that the user orientation attribute value is information about the relative orientation between the self avatar and the i-th avatar. This is information indicating whether or not they are facing each other.

(Step S609) The terminal processing unit 23 acquires a camera distance attribute value using the camera position information and the i-th avatar position information. Note that the camera distance attribute value is information specifying the distance between the camera and the i-th avatar.

(Step S610) The terminal processing unit 23 acquires the score of the i-th avatar using one or more of the dynamic attribute values acquired in steps S605 to S609.

(Step S611) The terminal processing unit 23 acquires the determination result of the i-th avatar using the score of the i-th avatar. Note that the determination result is, for example, a type identifier here. Note that the terminal processing unit 23 normally acquires a determination result corresponding to a larger data size as the score is higher.

(Step S612) The terminal processing unit 23 temporarily accumulates the determination result in association with the i-th avatar identifier. Note that the terminal processing unit 23 may temporarily store the score in association with the i-th avatar identifier.

(Step S613) The terminal processing unit 23 increments the counter i by 1. Return to step S603.

In addition, in the flowchart of FIG. 6, the terminal processing unit 23 does not need to acquire the determination result. In such a case, the terminal processing unit 23 temporarily accumulates the score in association with the i-th avatar identifier.

Next, an example of display information configuration processing in step S508 will be described using the flowchart of FIG.

(Step S701) The terminal processing unit 23 acquires world information. The world information is information received from the avatar output device 1 or information stored in the terminal storage section 21 .

(Step S702) The terminal processing unit 23 substitutes 1 for the counter i.

(Step S703) The terminal processing unit 23 determines whether or not the avatar identifier of the i-th avatar to be configured exists. If the i-th avatar identifier exists, go to step S704, and if the i-th avatar identifier does not exist, return to the upper process.

(Step S704) The terminal processing unit 23 acquires from the terminal storage unit 21 one or more attribute values paired with the i-th avatar identifier.

(Step S705) The terminal processing unit 23 determines whether or not to output the i-th avatar using one or more attribute values acquired in step S704. If the i-th avatar is to be output, go to step S706. If the i-th avatar is not to be output, go to step S70. For example, the terminal processing unit 23 determines not to output other avatars that are not in the field of view of the camera or other avatars that are not in the field of view of the user's own avatar.

(Step S706) The terminal processing unit 23 acquires model information paired with the i-th avatar identifier. The model information is, for example, first model information or second model information determined based on the determination result of each avatar.

(Step S707) The terminal processing unit 23 configures an avatar to be displayed using the model information acquired in step S706.

(Step S708) The terminal processing unit 23 places the avatar configured in step S707 in the world configured by the world information acquired in step S701 using the position information paired with the i-th avatar identifier. .

(Step S709) The terminal processing unit 23 increments the counter i by 1. Return to step S703.

Next, an example of the audio output processing in step S511 will be described using the flowchart of FIG.

(Step S801) The terminal processing unit 23 substitutes 1 for the counter i.

(Step S802) The terminal processing unit 23 determines whether or not the avatar identifier of the i-th avatar exists. If the i-th avatar identifier exists, go to step S803, and if the i-th avatar identifier does not exist, return to the upper process.

(Step S803) The terminal processing unit 23 determines whether or not there is voice information paired with the i-th avatar identifier. If the audio information exists, go to step S804, otherwise go to step S807. Note that the audio information paired with the i-th avatar identifier is information received from the avatar output device 1, for example.

(Step S804) The terminal processing unit 23 acquires a score or determination result paired with the i-th avatar identifier.

(Step S805) The terminal processing unit 23 acquires the type of voice information according to the score or determination result in step S804.

Here, when two or more types of voice information are stored in pairs with the i-th avatar identifier, for example, the terminal processing unit 23 stores voice information paired with the i-th avatar identifier (for example, first voice information, second voice information), the type of voice information corresponding to the score or determination result is acquired. When one voice information is stored in a pair with the i-th avatar identifier, for example, the terminal processing unit 23 determines the attribute value (for example, volume, frequency ) to get the audio information to output.

(Step S806) The terminal output unit 26 outputs the voice information acquired in step S805.

(Step S807) The terminal processing unit 23 increments the counter i by 1. Return to step S802.

A specific operation example of the information system A according to this embodiment will be described below with reference to FIG. An information system A has an avatar output device 1 and two or more terminal devices 2 . Here, two or more terminal devices 2 are assumed to be terminal devices 2(1), . . . , terminal devices 2(N).

It is assumed that the terminal reception unit 22 of the terminal device 2(1) has received model information and the like from the user. Then, the terminal processing unit 23 configures model information and the like to be transmitted using the received model information and the like. The terminal transmission unit 24 transmits the model information to the avatar output device 1 (see 901). Note that the model information and the like here have the first model information and an attribute value of 1 or more. The one or more attribute values here include position information, role attribute values, origin attribute values, and terminal attribute values.

Similarly, the terminal device 2 (N) also transmits the model information and the like received from the user to the avatar output device 1 (see 902).

Next, the avatar receiving unit 121 of the avatar output device 1 receives model information and the like from the terminal device 2(1), the terminal device 2(N), and the like (see 901 and 902). The avatar storage unit 132 then generates a unique avatar identifier for each piece of model information. Next, it is assumed that the avatar storage unit 132 associates the received model information and the like with the avatar identifier and stores them in the avatar management table having the structure shown in FIG.

The avatar management table has "ID", "avatar identifier", "first model information", "second model information", and "attribute value". "Attribute value" has "location information", "role attribute value", "origin attribute value", and "terminal attribute value". "Terminal attribute value" has "screen size" and "operating frequency" here. “ID” is information for identifying a record. "First model information" is the file name of the first model information. "Second model information" is the file name of the second model information. Each file is also stored in the avatar storage unit 112 . "Positional information" is information specifying the position of the avatar in the three-dimensional space. Also, here, the 'role attribute value' can be any of 'organizer', 'moderator', and 'audience'. The "origin attribute value" can be either "UGC" or "default". "UGC" indicates an avatar created by the user. "Default" indicates the default avatar. The default avatar is, for example, an avatar prepared in advance by the administrator of the avatar output device 1 . At this stage, there is no information in the "second model information" in the table.

Next, the model compression unit 131 of the avatar output device 1 detects that a predetermined condition has been met (for example, a predetermined time has come), and the terminal device 2(1) or the terminal device 2( N), etc., is subjected to the above-described compression process to obtain second model information (see 903). Next, the model compression unit 131 accumulates each of the two or more pieces of second model information in the avatar storage unit 112, pairs each of the two or more pieces of second model information with an avatar identifier, and creates an avatar management table. accumulate. The avatar management table shown in FIG. 10 is configured by the above processing. In the avatar management table of FIG. 10, "D1.json" is the _first model information of the default avatar, and "D2.json" is the _second model information of the default avatar.

Next, the processing unit 13 acquires the score acquisition source attribute values of all avatars from the avatar management table of FIG. 10 or the storage unit 11 in association with the avatar identifiers. Assume here that the score acquisition source attribute values are the five attribute values in FIG. 10 and the camera attribute values (camera position information, camera orientation information, and angle of view information). It is assumed that camera attribute values are stored in the storage unit 11 .

Next, the location information transmission unit 141 associates the score acquisition source attribute values of all avatars with the avatar identifiers and transmits them to all the terminal devices 2 including the terminal device 2(1) and the terminal device 2(N). (See 904, 905).

Next, the terminal receiving unit 25 of the terminal device 2(1) receives the score acquisition source attribute values of all avatars (see 904). Also, the terminal receiving unit 25 such as the terminal device 2(N) receives the score acquisition source attribute values of all the avatars (see 904).

Next, the terminal processing unit 23 such as the terminal device 2 (1) uses the position information of each other avatar possessed by the received score acquisition source attribute value, the camera position information, the camera direction information, and the angle of view information to , the shooting range attribute value of each other avatar, and the distance from the camera are acquired for each other avatar. In addition, all terminal processing units 23 such as the terminal device 2 (1) use the position information of each own avatar and the position information of each other avatar to calculate the distance between the own avatar and other avatars for each other avatar. to get.

Next, the terminal processing unit 23 such as the terminal device 2 (1) determines, for each other avatar, the shooting range attribute value corresponding to the other avatar, the distance from the camera, the distance between the own avatar and the other avatar, the role attribute value , origin attribute value, etc., to obtain a score. Next, the terminal processing unit 23 such as the terminal device 2(1) acquires the determination result "first" or "second" for each other avatar. Here, the terminal processing unit 23 acquires the “first” determination result for other avatars whose score is equal to or greater than the threshold, and obtains the “second” determination result for other avatars whose score is less than the threshold. (see 906 and 907).

Also, the concept of the determination result here is, for example, FIG. In FIG. 11, when the area 1101 shown in gray is the imaging range of the camera, the nine avatars included in the imaging range of the camera and close to the camera are judged to be "first", and the other avatars are included in the imaging range of the camera. The judgment result of the avatar is "second". In FIG. 11 , the avatar with the “first” determination result is blacked out, and the avatar with the “second” determination result is not blacked out. Moreover, it is preferable that the determination result differs depending on each terminal device 2 out of the terminal devices 2(1), . . . , 2(N). The nine avatars corresponding to the determination result "first" are A01, A02, A03, A04, A05, A06, A07, A08, and A09 in FIG.
Similarly, in FIG. 11, if the area 1101 shown in gray is the field of view seen from a specific terminal device (N), it is possible to make a determination considering the field of view of the own avatar.

Next, all the terminal processing units 23 such as the terminal device 2 ( 1 ) construct requests having sets of avatar identifiers of other avatars and determination results corresponding to the number of other avatars. Next, each of the terminal transmission units 24 of the terminal devices 2(1), .

Next, the reception unit 12 of the avatar output device 1 receives requests from two or more terminal devices 2 (see 908 and 909).

Next, the determination unit 133 of the avatar output device 1 acquires determination results corresponding to each avatar identifier included in the request from each terminal device 2 . Next, for each avatar identifier, the avatar acquisition unit 134 acquires the file name of the attribute value "first model information" or the attribute value "second model information" from the avatar management table (Fig. 10) according to the determination result. Then, the first model information or the second model information identified by the file name is acquired from the avatar storage unit 112 in association with the avatar identifier. The first model information is acquired for the avatar identifier corresponding to the determination result "first", and the second model information is acquired for the avatar identifier corresponding to the determination result "second".

Next, the avatar acquiring unit 134 detects that the world information sending flag indicating whether or not the world information has been sent is OFF (not sent), and determines to send the world information. Then, the avatar acquisition unit 134 acquires world information from the world storage unit 111 . The determination unit 133 and the avatar acquisition unit 134 perform the above processing for each terminal device 2, and acquire the first model information or the second model information associated with the avatar identifier and the world information (see 910 and 911). ).

Next, the avatar output unit 142 transmits the information acquired by the avatar acquisition unit 134 to each of the two or more terminal devices 2 that have transmitted the request (see 912 and 913). By sending the world information, the processing unit 13 sets the world information sending flag to ON (already sent).

Next, the terminal receiver 25 of each of the two or more terminal devices 2 receives information in response to the transmission of the request (see 912 and 913). The information here includes two or more sets of world information, avatar identifiers, and model information.

Next, the terminal processing unit 23 of each of the two or more terminal devices 2 performs the above-described display information configuration processing using the received information (see 914 and 915). The terminal output unit 26 outputs the information configured by the display information configuration processing (see 916 and 917). The output information has many avatars in a virtual three-dimensional space. An example of such an output is shown in FIG. In FIG. 12, avatars corresponding to each user of two or more terminal devices 2 are displayed together with the world. Moreover, it is preferable that the terminal device 2 uses the first model information and the second model information even for the same avatar.
Also, it is preferable that the virtual screen 1201 in FIG. 12 displays an image captured by a camera in the world. In such a case, for example, the avatar output device 1 composes an image acquired by a camera in the world and transmits it to each terminal device 2 . Then, the terminal reception unit 25 of each terminal device 2 receives the video captured by the camera. Then, the terminal processing unit 23 pastes the received video onto a virtual screen in the world. Next, the terminal output unit 26 outputs the world including the screen pasted with the video to each user. Output with an avatar to do.

Furthermore, it is assumed that time has passed and the user has made an input to the terminal device 2(1) to change the location information of his/her own avatar (see 918).

Next, the terminal processing unit 23 of the terminal device 2(1) recalculates the score of each of the one or more other avatars according to the change of the position information of the own avatar. Note that the terminal processing unit 23 has already received information other than the location information of its own avatar (information of other avatars, camera attribute values, etc.), and uses the accumulated information to calculate the score of each other avatar of 1 or more. is calculated.

Next, the terminal processing unit 23 of the terminal device 2(1) acquires the determination result according to the scores of each of the one or more other avatars (see 919).

Next, the terminal processing unit 23 generates one or more pairs of the avatar identifier of another avatar whose determination result has changed from the previous determination result and the determination result, and the changed location information of the own avatar. Configure a request with

Next, the terminal transmission unit 24 of the terminal device 2(1) transmits the request to the avatar output device 1 (see 920).

Next, the reception unit 12 of the avatar output device 1 receives the request from the terminal device 2(1) (see 920).

Next, the determination unit 133 of the avatar output device 1 acquires determination results corresponding to one or more avatar identifiers included in the request from the terminal device 2(1). Next, for each avatar identifier, the avatar acquisition unit 134 acquires the file name of the attribute value "first model information" or the attribute value "second model information" from the avatar management table (Fig. 10) according to the determination result. Then, the first model information or the second model information identified by the file name is acquired from the avatar storage unit 112 in association with the avatar identifier.

Next, since the world information has already been transmitted to the terminal device 2(1), the avatar acquisition unit 134 determines not to transmit the world information.

Next, the avatar output unit 142 transmits the information acquired by the avatar acquisition unit 134 to the terminal device 2(1) that transmitted the request (see 921).

In addition, the terminal processing unit 23 of the terminal device 2(1) composes the display information to be changed using the received model information of the other avatar in accordance with the update of the position information of the own avatar (see 922). ). Next, the terminal output unit 26 of the terminal device 2(1) outputs the newly constructed display information (see 923). Note that the terminal processing unit 23 also changes the position information (relative position information) of other avatars according to the update of the position information of the own avatar.

In addition, the avatar output unit 142 outputs the information of the other avatar including the changed position information of the avatar of the terminal device 2(1) and the avatar identifier of the avatar of the terminal device 2(1) to the terminal device 2(N). (see 924).

Next, the terminal receiving unit 25 of the terminal device 2(N) or the like receives the information of the other avatar of the terminal device 2(1).

Next, the terminal processing unit 23 of the terminal device 2(N) or the like acquires a new score for the avatar of the terminal device 2(1) due to the change in the position information of the avatar of the terminal device 2(1). Next, the terminal processing unit 23 of the terminal device 2(N) or the like acquires the determination result for the avatar of the terminal device 2(1) (see 925).

Then, it is assumed that the determination result of the avatar of the terminal device 2(1) in the terminal device 2(N) is different from the previous determination result.

Next, the terminal transmission unit 24 of the terminal device 2(N) transmits a request including the avatar identifier of the other avatar of the terminal device 2(1) and the new determination result to the avatar output device 1 (see 926). It is assumed that the terminal device (2) for which the determination result of the avatar of the terminal device 2 (1) is the same as the previous determination result does not transmit the request to the avatar output device 1. FIG.

Next, the reception unit 12 of the avatar output device 1 receives the request from the terminal device 2 (N) (see 926).

Next, the determination unit 133 of the avatar output device 1 acquires the determination result corresponding to the avatar identifier included in the request from the terminal device 2(N). Next, the avatar acquisition unit 134 selects a file having the file name of the attribute value "first model information" or the attribute value "second model information" and paired with the avatar identifier according to the determination result of the avatar identifier. The name is acquired from the avatar management table (FIG. 10), and the first model information or the second model information identified by the file name is acquired from the avatar storage unit 112 in association with the avatar identifier.

Next, the avatar output unit 142 transmits the information acquired by the avatar acquisition unit 134 to the terminal device 2(N) that transmitted the request (see 927).

Next, the terminal reception unit 25 of the terminal device 2(N) receives information in response to the transmission of the request (see 927).

Next, the terminal processing unit 23 of the terminal device 2(N) performs display information configuration processing using the received information (see 928). The terminal output unit 26 of the terminal device 2(N) outputs the information configured by the display information configuration processing (see 929). By this display information configuration processing, in the terminal device 2 (N), for example, the position of the avatar of the terminal device 2 (1) is moved, and the model information used for displaying the avatar is changed to the second model information to the first model information.

In addition, due to the change in the position information of the avatar of the terminal device 2(1), the terminal devices 2 other than the terminal device 2(N) also transmit requests to the avatar output device 1, and similar to the terminal device 2(N), You may output the changed information.

As described above, according to the present embodiment, at least some avatars out of two or more avatars are avatars with a smaller data size, thereby suppressing the processing load when outputting a large number of avatars. In addition, an avatar suitable for the user can be obtained.

Moreover, according to the present embodiment, by using the voice information corresponding to the avatars, appropriate voices of two or more avatars can be output.

Further, according to the present embodiment, it is possible to receive and use avatar model information or original information from two or more terminal devices. In other words, users can display their favorite avatars on the field.

Further, according to the present embodiment, the load on the avatar output device 1 can be reduced by obtaining scores of other avatars with two or more terminal devices 2 .

Also, according to the present embodiment, it is possible to determine an avatar with a smaller data size based on an appropriate score obtained using an appropriate dynamic attribute value of the avatar.

In addition, according to the present embodiment, avatars with small sizes can be used only at some locations.
Furthermore, according to the present embodiment, processing can be appropriately shared between two or more terminal devices 2 and the avatar output device 1 .

In addition, in the present embodiment, in the processing until the avatar is displayed on the terminal device 2, the two or more terminal devices 2 and the avatar output device 1 may share the processing in any way. In the above specific example, for example, the acquisition and determination of the score of each avatar were performed by the terminal device 2. 1 may go. Also, the avatar output device 1 may acquire and determine the score of each avatar.

Also, the processing in the present embodiment may be realized by software. Then, this software may be distributed by software download or the like. Also, this software may be recorded on a recording medium such as a CD-ROM and distributed. Note that this also applies to other embodiments in this specification. The software that realizes the avatar output device 1 in this embodiment is the following program. In other words, this program causes a computer capable of accessing an avatar storage section storing avatar information having first model information for displaying an avatar, for each of two or more avatars, among the two or more avatars, Determining one or more first avatars to be displayed using the first model information and one or more second avatars to be displayed using second model information having a data size smaller than the first model information. and for each of the one or more second avatars determined by the determination unit, an avatar using the second model information is obtained, and for each of the one or more first avatars, the first model information is obtained. It is a program for functioning as an avatar acquisition unit for acquiring used avatars and an avatar output unit for outputting two or more avatars acquired by the avatar acquisition unit.

Also, FIG. 13 shows the appearance of a computer that executes the program described in this specification and realizes the avatar output device 1 and the like of the various embodiments described above. The embodiments described above may be implemented in computer hardware and computer programs running thereon. FIG. 13 is an overview diagram of this computer system 300, and FIG. 14 is a block diagram of the system 300. As shown in FIG.

In FIG. 13, computer system 300 includes computer 301 including a CD-ROM drive, keyboard 302 , mouse 303 and monitor 304 .

14, a computer 301 includes a CD-ROM drive 3012, an MPU 3013, a bus 3014 connected to the CD-ROM drive 3012, a ROM 3015 for storing programs such as a boot-up program, It includes a RAM 3016 connected and for temporarily storing application program instructions and providing temporary storage space, and a hard disk 3017 for storing application programs, system programs and data. Although not shown here, computer 301 may also include a network card that provides connection to a LAN. Note that each of the two or more terminal devices 2 preferably includes a camera, a speaker, and a microphone.

A program that causes the computer system 300 to execute the functions of the avatar output device 1 of the embodiment described above may be stored in the CD-ROM 3101, inserted into the CD-ROM drive 3012, and further transferred to the hard disk 3017. . Alternatively, the program may be transmitted to computer 301 via a network (not shown) and stored in hard disk 3017 . Programs are loaded into RAM 3016 during execution. The program may be loaded directly from CD-ROM 3101 or network.

The program does not necessarily include an operating system (OS), a third party program, or the like that causes the computer 301 to execute the functions of the avatar output device 1 of the embodiment described above. A program need only contain those parts of instructions that call the appropriate functions (modules) in a controlled manner to produce the desired result. How the computer system 300 operates is well known and will not be described in detail.

In the above program, the step of transmitting information, the step of receiving information, etc. are performed by hardware. processing) are not included.

Also, the number of computers that execute the above programs may be singular or plural. That is, centralized processing may be performed, or distributed processing may be performed.

Further, in each of the above embodiments, it goes without saying that two or more communication means existing in one device may be physically realized by one medium.

Further, in each of the above embodiments, each process may be implemented by centralized processing by a single device, or may be implemented by distributed processing by a plurality of devices.

It goes without saying that the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and that various modifications are possible and are also included within the scope of the present invention.

INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY As described above, the avatar output device according to the present invention has the effect of being able to obtain avatars suitable for the user while suppressing the processing load when outputting a large number of avatars. It is useful as a device or the like.

1 avatar output device 2 terminal device 11 storage unit 12 reception unit 13 processing unit 14 output unit 21 terminal storage unit 22 terminal reception unit 23 terminal processing unit 24 terminal transmission unit 24 each terminal transmission unit 25 terminal reception unit 26 terminal output unit 111 world Storage unit 112 Avatar storage unit 121 Avatar reception unit 131 Model compression unit 132 Avatar accumulation unit 133 Determination unit 134 Avatar acquisition unit 135 Voice acquisition unit 141 Location information transmission unit 142 Avatar output unit 143 Voice output unit

Claims (19)

an avatar storage unit storing avatar information having first model information for displaying the avatar for each of the two or more avatars;
Among the two or more avatars, one or more first avatars displayed using the first model information and one or more displayed using the second model information having a data size smaller than the first model information a determination unit that determines the second avatar;
For each of the one or more second avatars determined by the determination unit, an avatar using the second model information is obtained, and for each of the one or more first avatars, an avatar using the first model information an avatar acquisition unit that acquires
and an avatar output unit that outputs two or more avatars acquired by the avatar acquisition unit. The avatar information also includes first audio information for the avatar to output audio,
The decision unit
Among the two or more avatars, one or more first avatars corresponding to the first audio information are different from the second audio information or the first audio information having a data size smaller than the first audio information. determining one or more second avatars that are avatars corresponding to the second audio information having attribute values;
a voice acquisition unit that acquires the second voice information for each of the one or more second avatars determined by the determination unit, and acquires the first voice information for each of the one or more first avatars;
2. The avatar output device according to claim 1, further comprising a voice output unit for outputting the first voice information and the second voice information acquired by the voice acquisition unit. an avatar receiving unit that receives the first model information or original information that is the basis of the first model information from each of two or more terminal devices used by the user;
an avatar storage unit configured to store, in the avatar storage unit, the first model information received by the avatar reception unit or avatar information having the first model information acquired using the original information received by the avatar reception unit; 3. The avatar output device according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising: The avatar receiving unit
Also receiving position information specifying the position of the avatar corresponding to each terminal device from each of the two or more terminal devices,
Among the position information of each of the two or more avatars corresponding to each of the two or more terminal devices, at least the position information of one or more other avatars excluding the position information of the own avatar corresponding to the terminal device of the transmission destination is used as the avatar. 4. The avatar output device according to claim 3, further comprising a location information transmitting unit that transmits the location information to each of the two or more terminal devices in association with the avatar identifier to be identified. The avatar receiving unit
receiving scores of one or more other avatars obtained by the terminal devices or determination results based on the scores from the two or more terminal devices in association with avatar identifiers;
The decision unit
One or more first avatars displayed using the first model information among the two or more avatars for each of the two or more terminal devices using the score or the determination result; 5. The avatar output device according to claim 4, wherein one or more second avatars to be displayed are determined using the second model information having a data size smaller than that of the model information. further comprising a model compression unit that acquires second model information having a data size smaller than the first model information using the first model information or the original information;
The avatar storage unit
6. The avatar output device according to any one of claims 3 to 5, wherein avatar information having said first model information and said second model information is stored in said avatar storage unit. The decision unit
7. The one or more second avatars are determined based on a score or determination result obtained using one or more dynamic attribute values corresponding to each of the two or more avatars. Avatar output device according to the paragraph. The one or more dynamic attribute values include any one of an attribute value related to the field of view of the user corresponding to the avatar, an attribute value related to the field of view of the camera, an attribute value related to the distance from the user, and an attribute value related to the direction to the user. The avatar output device according to claim 4 or 7. 9. The avatar output device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the second model information is model information in which data size of information of only a part of the avatar is reduced. 10. The avatar output device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, which shares processing with the terminal device until an image including two or more avatars is output from the terminal device. The decision unit
determining the one or more second avatars for each of the two or more terminal devices based on the scores or determination results obtained using the one or more dynamic attribute values corresponding to the two or more avatars;
The terminal device performs the process of obtaining the score or determination result using the one or more dynamic attribute values, and the avatar output device performs the process of obtaining the second model information using the first model information. 11. The avatar output device according to claim 10. the avatar information of each of the two or more avatars in the avatar storage includes first model information and second model information;
The avatar acquisition unit
reading the second model information for the one or more second avatars determined by the determination unit, and configuring the avatar using the second model information;
12. The avatar output device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein for the first avatar, the first model information is read and the avatar is configured using the first model information. the avatar information for each of the two or more avatars in the avatar storage has one or more static attribute values that do not change dynamically;
The decision unit
An avatar according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein information based on said one or more static attribute values corresponding to each of said two or more avatars is used to determine said one or more second avatars. output device. 14. The avatar output device according to claim 13, wherein said one or more static attribute values include either an attribute value relating to the role of the avatar or an attribute value relating to the origin of the avatar. 14. The avatar output device according to claim 13, wherein the one or more static attribute values include attribute values of a terminal device corresponding to the avatar. The second model information is M less than N (M is a natural number of 1 or more) mesh information acquired using N (N is a natural number of 2 or more) mesh information possessed by the first model information. 16. The avatar output device according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the avatar output device has model information. A terminal device that communicates with the avatar output device according to any one of claims 1 to 16 and displays an avatar,
a terminal storage unit storing one or more terminal attribute values including position information of an avatar corresponding to the terminal device;
a terminal transmission unit that transmits the position information to the avatar output device;
a terminal receiving unit that receives position information of other avatars corresponding to one or more other terminal devices from the avatar output device;
a terminal processing unit that obtains a score of the one or more other avatars using the position information of the one or more other avatars and the position information;
The terminal transmission unit
transmitting the score of the one or more other avatars or a determination result based on the score to the avatar output device in association with the terminal identifier of the terminal device;
The terminal receiving unit
receiving model information of the other avatar from the avatar output device in response to transmission of the score or the determination result, and different model information corresponding to the score or the determination result;
A terminal device further comprising a terminal output unit that displays the one or more other avatars using the model information. Avatar output implemented by an avatar storage unit storing avatar information having first model information for displaying the avatar, a determination unit, an avatar acquisition unit, and an avatar output unit for each of two or more avatars a method,
The determining unit displays one or more first avatars displayed using the first model information among the two or more avatars, and second model information having a data size smaller than the first model information. a determining step of determining one or more second avatars to be
The avatar acquisition unit acquires an avatar using the second model information for each of the one or more second avatars determined in the determination step, and obtains an avatar using the second model information for each of the one or more first avatars. an avatar acquisition step of acquiring an avatar using one model information;
and an avatar output step in which the avatar output unit outputs two or more avatars obtained in the avatar obtaining step. for each of the two or more avatars, a computer having access to an avatar store in which avatar information having first model information for displaying the avatar is stored;
Among the two or more avatars, one or more first avatars displayed using the first model information and one or more displayed using the second model information having a data size smaller than the first model information a determination unit that determines the second avatar;
For each of the one or more second avatars determined by the determination unit, an avatar using the second model information is obtained, and for each of the one or more first avatars, an avatar using the first model information an avatar acquisition unit that acquires
A program for functioning as an avatar output unit that outputs two or more avatars acquired by the avatar acquisition unit.

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