TWI788601B - Communication support method, program and communication server - Google Patents

Abstract

A communication support method includes the steps of: receiving use information indicating that a flavor suction tool has used, the use information being sent by an user terminal when the flavor suction tool has used; allocating a virtual space to the user terminal according to the received use information; arranging an object of a character correlated to the user terminal or an user to the virtual space; determining display mode of the object in the virtual space according to the received use information; and transmitting display information for displaying the virtual space that the object is arranged to the user terminal.

Description

Communication support method, program and communication server

The invention relates to a communication support method, a program and a communication server.

Patent Document 1 discloses a technology that combines smoking with virtual space. Specifically, in Patent Document 1, a technology is provided that, when a user wearing a head-mounted unit smokes with a flavor inhaler, by displaying on the head-mounted unit the smoke accompanying the cigarette The three-dimensional object of the coming smoke, and provides the user with a smoking experience in a virtual way.

[Patent Document]

International Publication No. 2017/121979

However, users of scent inhalers may be limited to limited usage environments due to the reduction in smoking places in recent years. Therefore, users have a demand for a user experience in a virtual environment different from the real world. Although Patent Document 1 realizes the smoking experience in a virtual manner by using a flavor inhaler, it is not a technology that provides a use experience in a virtual use environment.

The purpose of the present invention is to provide a communication support method, program and communication server capable of providing user experience in a virtual environment.

According to the first aspect of the present invention, the communication support method includes: a receiving step of receiving use information sent by the user terminal when the scent inhaler is used, the use information indicating that the scent inhaler has been used information; an allocation step, assigning the virtual space to the aforementioned user terminal according to the received aforementioned usage information; a configuration step, disposing objects of characters corresponding to the user or the aforementioned user terminal in the aforementioned virtual space; the determination step, Determine the display form of the aforementioned object in the aforementioned virtual space according to the aforementioned usage information; and send the display information for displaying the aforementioned virtual space configured with the aforementioned object to the aforementioned user terminal.

According to the second aspect of the present invention, the program causes the computer to execute the following steps: the receiving step is to receive the use information sent by the user terminal when the scent inhaler is used, and the use information is to display the scent inhaler The information that has been used; the allocation step is to allocate the virtual space to the aforementioned user terminal according to the received aforementioned usage information; the configuration step is to configure the objects corresponding to the user or the aforementioned user terminal in the aforementioned virtual space In the space; the determining step is to determine the display form of the aforementioned object in the aforementioned virtual space according to the aforementioned usage information; and the sending step is to send the display information for displaying the aforementioned virtual space configured with the aforementioned object to the aforementioned user terminal .

According to the third aspect of the present invention, the communication server includes: a communication unit that receives usage information sent by the user terminal when the scent inhaler is used, the usage information indicates that the scent inhaler has been used information; the allocation part, according to the received use information to allocate the virtual space to the aforementioned user terminal; the configuration part, will cooperate with the user or the aforementioned user The objects corresponding to the characters of the user terminal are arranged in the aforementioned virtual space; and the determining part, based on the aforementioned usage information, determines the display form of the aforementioned objects in the aforementioned virtual space; wherein, the aforementioned communication part is used to display and configure the aforementioned The display information of the aforementioned virtual space of the object is sent to the aforementioned user terminal.

According to at least one of the above-mentioned forms, the communication server can provide the user of the scent tasting device with a use experience in a virtual use environment different from the real world.

1‧‧‧Communication system

90‧‧‧Computer

91‧‧‧processor

92‧‧‧main memory

93‧‧‧storage

94‧‧‧Interface

100‧‧‧Flavor tasters

100A‧‧‧Scent Tasting Set

100B‧‧‧Flavor tasters

102‧‧‧First component

104‧‧‧Second component

106‧‧‧Control Department

108‧‧‧Department of Communications

110‧‧‧Battery

112‧‧‧Sensor

114‧‧‧memory

116‧‧‧storage

118‧‧‧Atomization Department

120‧‧‧Inlet flow path

121‧‧‧Smoke flow path

122‧‧‧Nozzle part

124‧‧‧arrow

126‧‧‧The third component

128‧‧‧Scent source

131‧‧‧Outer shell

131A‧‧‧Upper housing

131B‧‧‧Lower housing

132‧‧‧Cover

132B‧‧‧opening

133‧‧‧Switch

134‧‧‧Cover Department

140‧‧‧smoking articles

200‧‧‧user terminals

201‧‧‧Display

202‧‧‧Department of Communications

203‧‧‧memory

204‧‧‧memory department

205‧‧‧Information Processing Department

206‧‧‧Operation Department

300‧‧‧communication server

301‧‧‧Virtual Space Memory Department

302‧‧‧User information memory

303‧‧‧Department of Communications

304‧‧‧designated department

305‧‧‧Distribution Department

306‧‧‧Configuration Department

307‧‧‧Form Determination Department

308‧‧‧Message Receiving Department

309‧‧‧Transmission Department

310‧‧‧Space Decoration Department

M‧‧‧message input unit

V‧‧‧virtual space

V1‧‧‧Avatar

V2‧‧‧Communication information

V3‧‧‧decorative objects

V11‧‧‧Fragrance tasters

Fig. 1 is a diagram showing an example of a communication system according to a first embodiment.

Fig. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the operation of the communication system of the first embodiment.

Fig. 3 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of the flavor inhaler of the first example.

Fig. 4 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of a second example of a flavor inhaler.

Fig. 5 is a diagram showing an example of a schematic appearance of a flavor inhaler.

Fig. 6 is a diagram showing an example of a schematic appearance of a flavor inhaler in a state where an aerosol-generating base material is held.

Fig. 7 is a flow chart showing an example of the operation of the flavor tasting device according to the first embodiment.

Fig. 8 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of the user terminal according to the first embodiment.

Fig. 9 is a diagram showing an example of a display form displayed on the user terminal according to the first embodiment.

Fig. 10 is a schematic block diagram showing the configuration of the communication server according to the first embodiment.

Fig. 11 shows an example of information stored in the virtual space memory unit of the first embodiment.

Fig. 12 shows an example of information stored in the user information storage unit of the first embodiment.

Fig. 13 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the communication server of the first embodiment.

Fig. 14 is a flowchart showing another example of the operation of the communication server of the first embodiment.

Fig. 15 is a schematic block diagram showing the configuration of a computer according to at least one embodiment.

<First Embodiment> "Communication System Structure"

Hereinafter, embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

Fig. 1 is a diagram showing an example of a communication system according to a first embodiment.

The communication system 1 of the first embodiment includes: a scent inhaler 100 , a user terminal 200 and a communication server 300 . The scent inhaler 100 and the user terminal 200 communicate with each other, for example, via short-range wireless communication. In addition, the user terminal 200 and the communication server 300 communicate with each other, for example, via wireless communication.

The scent inhaler 100 sends usage information indicating that the user has used the scent inhaler 100 to the user terminal 200 via short-distance wireless communication, for example. In addition, the user terminal 200 sends the received usage information to the communication server 300 via wireless communication, for example.

When receiving the use information, the communication server 300 allocates the virtual space to the user terminal 200 via wireless communication, and sends display information for displaying the virtual space to the user terminal 200 . In addition, the communication server 300 also sends the display information for displaying the virtual space to other user terminals 200 via wireless communication. Then, the user terminal 200 displays the virtual space according to the received display information.

In addition, the user terminal 200 sends the message to the communication server 300 via wireless communication. In addition, when receiving a message, the communication server 300 transmits display information for displaying the message in the virtual space to other user terminals 200 assigned to the virtual space via wireless communication. Then, the user terminal 200 displays the message in the virtual space according to the received display information (more specifically, displays the communication information belonging to the object displaying the message in the virtual space.).

According to the first embodiment, when the communication server 300 detects that the scent inhaler 100 is used, the communication server 300 arranges the user's avatar V1 in the virtual space V, and displays the image of the virtual space V on the user terminal 200. Display the image. In this virtual space V, avatars V1 of other users who use the aroma inhaler 100 at the same time are also arranged. In the virtual space V, communication information V2 such as a message sent by each user is also displayed. The scent inhaler object V11 held by each avatar V1 in the virtual space V may also have the same shape as the scent inhaler 100 used by the user. In addition, in the virtual space V, a decorative object V3 is arranged. Therefore, each user of the scent inhaler can obtain a use experience in a virtual use environment.

Also, the "use information" may be various kinds of use information that can be collected by the scent inhaler 100 . Usage information is information about the use of scent inhalers, including, for example, frequency of use, Dosage and/or Facts of Use. In addition, the use information is not limited to the above-mentioned information, but also includes information related to the use status of the flavor inhalation tool 100 . Information about the state of use of the scent inhaler 100, for example, includes the use time of the scent inhaler 100, the state of charge or remaining state of the battery contained in the scent inhaler 100, the location of the scent inhaler (user) 100 , information such as the time when the predetermined capsule (capsule) is installed on the scent inhaler 100 or the time when the scent inhaler 100 is carried or kept. In addition, the usage information can be, for example, information about the number of pumping times or replacement times of supplements, the consumption or remaining amount of liquid, and the like. In addition, the refills are replaceable components, such as the storage or flavor source included in the flavor inhaler 100, the smoking article 140, various atomizers, and the like. In addition, the use information can be measured by various sensors installed in the scent inhaler 100 .

In addition, the "virtual space" is a virtual space displayed on the user terminal 200, such as a three-dimensional or two-dimensional space imitating a smoking area or a scenic spot. In addition, the virtual space V is not limited to smoking areas or attractions, but can be any area or place. In addition, the virtual space V does not have to be a place that actually exists, and may be any area or place, for example, a virtual area or place that does not actually exist. In addition, the virtual space V is not necessarily a three-dimensional space, but may be a two-dimensional space. Therefore, the virtual space V can be any space as long as it can be displayed on the user terminal 200 .

In addition, "message" refers to various information sent by the user terminal 200, such as including text information, audio information, animation information or image information. The message may also include image information, animation information or audio information corresponding to the predetermined character (including the avatar described below). In addition, the message may include a URL (Universal Resource Locator, Uniform Information Locator) or a QR code (registered trademark) related to a predetermined homepage on the Internet. also, The message may also contain a Morse signal or a predetermined encrypted signal. In addition, the message may be various information required by the user of the user terminal 200 to send to the user of another user terminal 200 . The information is not limited to these examples, and may include advertisement information, trouble information, coupons showing discounts on accessories of the scent inhaler 100, and the like.

"Communication Systems in Action"

Fig. 2 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the communication system 1 according to the first embodiment. In addition, in the process diagram shown in FIG. 2 , the communication server 300 allocates the virtual space to the user terminal 200 by receiving usage information as a trigger. However, the sequence diagram shown in FIG. 2 is only an example of the operation of the communication system 1, and the trigger for allocating virtual space is not limited to receiving usage information.

For example, the communication server 300 can also use the user terminal 200 to log in to the communication system 1 as a trigger to allocate the virtual space to the user terminal 200 . In addition, for example, the communication server 300 may use predetermined information instead of using information as a trigger to allocate the virtual space to the user terminal 200 . The predetermined information includes, for example, information showing that the aroma inhaler 100 and/or the user terminal 200 exists in a predetermined space (for example, an actual smoking area), or information that the predetermined time has come, and that the switch of the aroma inhaler 100 is turned off. press information, etc. In addition, the predetermined space can be any place, as long as there is no place where the scent inhaler 100 is prohibited, such as a real smoking area or a residence and other buildings where the scent inhaler 100 can be used, cars and other other buildings where the scent can be used. In the vehicle of the inhaler 100, there are shops where the aroma inhaler 100 can be used, smoking rooms where the aroma inhaler 100 can be used in various stores, areas or regions where the aroma inhaler 100 can be used, and the like. In addition, the predetermined space can also be accessed via latitude and Longitude is specified as a location or area, and can also be displayed as an area on a predetermined map.

According to the detection of the user's inhalation action (puffing) (S1001), the scent inhaler 100 sends usage information to the user terminal 200 via, for example, short-distance wireless communication (S1002). The user terminal 200 sends the usage information to the communication server 300 via wireless communication, for example ( S1003 ).

The communication server 300 allocates the virtual space to the user terminal 200 according to the received use information (S1004), and sends display information for displaying the virtual space to the user terminal 200 via wireless communication (S1005). The user terminal 200 displays the virtual space according to the received display information (S1006).

Another user terminal 200 allocated to the same virtual space receives the message input by other users (S1007), and sends the message to the communication server 300 via wireless communication (S1008).

When the communication server 300 receives the message (S1009), it transmits display information for displaying the message in the virtual space to the user terminal 200 allocated to the same virtual space via wireless communication (S1010). The user terminal 200 displays the message in the virtual space according to the received display information (S1011).

Hereinafter, the scent inhaler 100 , the user terminal 200 and the communication server 300 included in the communication system 1 will be described.

"Structure of Fragrance Inhalation and Tasting Devices"

The flavor inhaler 100 is a device for inhaling a flavor, and it is assumed to be used in, for example, electronic cigarettes, heated cigarettes, and conventional cigarettes, although not specifically limited. Additionally, the Scent Taster 100 contains An aerosol generating device for inhaling the generated aerosol, the aerosol generating device is envisaged for example for electronic cigarettes, heated cigarettes or medical nebulizers. More specifically, the mist generating device is, for example, a device that atomizes a liquid (smoke source) using electric power to generate mist. Smoke is the source of atomized smoke, which is fine particles floating in the gas. The smoke generated by the smoke generating device may also be scented smoke. Examples of the smoke generating device include heated cigarettes (T-vapor or Infused), electronic cigarettes (E-vapor), and the like. In addition, the smoke generating device includes a type that directly heats tobacco (direct heating), a type that indirectly heats tobacco (indirect heating), or a type that heats liquid (liquid). In addition, the smoke generating device can generate SAW (Surface Acoustic Wave, Surface Acoustic Wave) by using a piezoelectric element substrate having a pair of comb electrodes to atomize the liquid.

Fig. 3 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of the flavor inhaler of the first example. As shown in FIG. 3 , the flavor inhaler 100A of the first example includes a first member 102 and a second member 104 . As shown in the figure, for example, the first component 102 may include: a control unit 106 , a communication unit 108 , a battery 110 , a sensor 112 and a memory 114 .

For example, the second component 104 may include: a reservoir 116 , an atomizing portion 118 , an air intake flow path 120 , a smoke flow path 121 and a nozzle portion 122 . Some components included in the first member 102 may be included in the second member 104 . Some components included in the second member 104 may be included in the first member 102 . The second member 104 can be configured to be detachable from the first member 102 . Alternatively, instead of the first member 102 and the second member 104, all components contained in the first member 102 and the second member 104 may be contained in the same housing.

Reservoir 116 is used to hold a source of smoke. For example, the reservoir 116 is made of a fibrous or porous material, and the smoke source as a liquid is held in the gaps between the fibers or in the pores of the porous material. in the hole. As the above-mentioned fibrous or porous material, for example, cotton, glass fiber, or tobacco raw material can be used. The reservoir 116 may be configured as a tank for storing liquid. The smoke source is a liquid such as glycerin (Glycerin) or polyhydric alcohol of propylene glycol or water. When the scent inhaler 100A is a medical inhaler such as a nebulizer, the smoke source may also include medicine for the patient to inhale. As another example, the smoke source may comprise tobacco material or an extract derived from tobacco material that releases flavor components upon heating. Reservoir 116 may be of a configuration to replenish a depleted source of aerosol. Alternatively, the reservoir 116 can be configured so that the reservoir 116 itself can be replaced when the source of smoke is consumed. In addition, the smoke source is not limited to liquid, and may be solid. When the aerosol source is solid, the reservoir 116 may, for example, not use a hollow container of fibrous or porous material.

The atomizing unit 118 is configured to atomize the smoke source to generate smoke. When the sensor 112 detects an inhalation action, the atomizer 118 generates smoke. For example, a wick (not shown) may be provided to connect the reservoir 116 and the atomizer 118 . In this case, a portion of the wick opens into the interior of the reservoir 116 and contacts the source of smoke. Another part of the wick extends to the atomizing portion 118 . The source of aerosol is transported from the reservoir 116 to the atomizing section 118 by capillary action of the wick. For example, the atomizing unit 118 includes a heater electrically connected to the battery 110 . The heater is placed in contact with or close to the core. When a puffing action is detected, the control part 106 controls the heater of the atomizing part 118 and atomizes the source of smoke delivered through the wick by heating the source. Another example of the atomizing unit 118 may be an ultrasonic atomizer, which atomizes the smoke source through ultrasonic vibration. The air intake flow path 120 is connected to the atomization part 118 , and the air intake flow path 120 communicates with the outside of the aroma inhaler 100A. The mist generated in the atomizing part 118 is mixed with the air inhaled through the intake flow path 120 . The mixed fluid of smoke and air is sent to the smoke flow path 121 as indicated by arrow 124 . The smoke flow path 121 has a tubular junction for delivering the mixed fluid of smoke and air generated in the atomizing part 118 to the suction nozzle part 122. structure.

The mouthpiece part 122 is located at the end of the smoke passage 121, and is configured to open the smoke passage 121 to the outside of the fragrance inhaler 100A. By holding and sucking on the mouthpiece 122, the user inhales the air containing the smoke into the oral cavity.

The communication unit 108 communicates with user terminals or other computers. The communication unit 108 can be realized using at least a network interface or the like as hardware resources.

The battery 110 supplies power to each component of the scent inhaler 100A such as the communication part 108, the sensor 112, the memory 114, the atomizing part 118, and the like. The battery 110 can also be charged by being connected to an external power source via a predetermined port (not shown) of the scent inhaler 100A. Only the battery 110 can be removed from the first member 102 or the scent inhaler 100A, or can be replaced with a new battery 110 . In addition, the battery 110 can also be replaced with a new battery 110 by replacing the entire first member 102 with a new first member 102 .

The sensor 112 may include: a pressure sensor for detecting a change in internal pressure of at least one of the intake flow path 120 and the smoke flow path 121 or a flow sensor for detecting flow. The sensors 112 may also include weight sensors to detect the weight of components such as the reservoir 116 . The sensor 112 can also be configured to count the number of puffs taken by the user using the scent inhaler 100A. The sensor 112 can also be configured to accumulate the energization time of the atomizing unit 118 . The sensor 112 may also be configured to detect the liquid level in the reservoir 116 . The sensor 112 can also be configured to detect the SOC (State of Charge, state of charge), current accumulation value, voltage, etc. of the battery 110 . The current integration value can be acquired by a current integration method, an SOC-OCV (Open Circuit Voltage, open circuit voltage) method, or the like. The sensor 112 can also be an operation button that can be operated by the user.

The control unit 106 may be an electronic circuit module in the form of a microprocessor or a microcomputer. The control unit 106 can be configured to control the action of the scent inhaler 100A according to the computer-executable instructions stored in the memory 114 . The memory 114 is a memory medium such as ROM, RAM, and flash memory. In addition to the above-mentioned computer-executable instructions, the memory 114 can also store setting data and the like required for controlling the scent inhaler 100A. For example, the memory 114 can store various data such as the control method of the communication unit 108 (such as the mode of light emission, sound generation, vibration, etc.), the value detected by the sensor 112 and the heating history of the atomization unit 118 . The control unit 106 reads data from the memory 114 as needed, uses the data to control the scent inhaler 100A, and stores the data in the memory 114 as needed.

Fig. 4 is a block diagram showing a schematic structure of a flavor inhaler of the second example. As shown in the figure, the flavor inhaler 100B of the second example further includes a third member 126 in addition to the structure of the flavor inhaler 100A in FIG. 3 . The third component 126 may contain a fragrance source 128 . For example, when the flavor inhaler 100B is an electronic cigarette, the flavor source 128 may contain flavor components contained in cigarettes. As shown, the smoke flow path 121 extends across the second member 104 and the third member 126 . The nozzle part 122 is provided in the third member 126 .

The flavor source 128 is a component for imparting flavor to the smoke. The fragrance source 128 is disposed in the middle of the smoke flow path 121 . The mixed fluid of smoke and air generated by the atomizing part 118 (please note that the mixed fluid will also be referred to simply as smoke in some cases below) flows to the nozzle part 122 through the smoke flow path 121 . Therefore, relative to the flow of smoke, the fragrance source 128 is disposed downstream of the atomizing part 118 . In other words, the fragrance source 128 is located closer to the mouthpiece 122 in the mist flow path 121 than the nebulizer 118 is. Therefore, the smoke generated by the atomizing part 118 reaches the mouthpiece part 122 after passing through the fragrance source 128 . When the smoke passes through the aroma source 128, containing The flavor components in the flavor source 128 are imparted to the smoke. For example, when the flavor inhaler 100B is an electronic cigarette, the flavor source 128 may be a flavor source derived from tobacco, such as shredded tobacco or a processed product obtained by forming tobacco material into a granular, sheet or powder form. Flavor source 128 may also be a non-tobacco-derived flavor source, such as a flavor source made from plants other than tobacco (eg, mint, herbs, etc.). For example, flavor source 128 includes a tobacco component. Flavor source 128 may include a fragrance ingredient such as menthol. In addition to the fragrance source 128, the reservoir 116 may also have a material containing a fragrance ingredient. For example, flavor inhaler 100B may be configured to retain tobacco-derived flavor material in flavor source 128 and contain non-tobacco-derived flavor material in reservoir 116 .

The user can inhale the air containing the aroma-imparting smoke into the oral cavity by sucking on the mouthpiece 122 .

The control unit 106 is configured to control the fragrance inhaler 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention through various methods. In addition, the control unit 106 generates usage information of the scent inhaler 100 and sends it to the user terminal 200 . The scent inhaler 100 and the user terminal 200 are associated with each other, for example, by implementing short-distance wireless communication such as Bluetooth (registered trademark) or BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) communication, to send and receive data between the two parties. In addition, the data transmission and reception between the scent inhaler 100 and the user terminal 200 is not limited to BLE communication, for example, can be through such as wireless LAN (Local Area Network, local area network), LPWAN (Low Power Wide Area Network, low power Wide Area Network) or NFC (Near Field Communication, Near Field Communication) and other communication to perform. In addition, the transmission and reception of data between the scent inhaler 100 and the user terminal 200 is not necessarily limited to wireless communication, and can also be wired communication, such as USB (Universal Serial Bus, Universal Serial Bus) or Mini USB or Micro USB or Lightning wait. Usage information may contain incense The type of the taster 100 , the type of flavor (flavor), the number of puffs, location information, etc.

Fig. 5 is a diagram showing a schematic appearance of a flavor inhaler. Fig. 6 is a diagram showing an example of a schematic appearance of a flavor inhaler in a state where the smoke-generating base material is held.

In this embodiment, the flavor inhaler 100 is configured to generate flavor-containing smoke by, for example, heating the smoke-generating substrate of a smoking article that has a filling including a smoke source and a flavor source. Substrate. Additionally, the smoking article 140 may serve as an aerosol generating substrate.

As will be understood by those skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains, the smoking article 140 is only one example of an aerosol-generating substrate. The aerosol source contained in the aerosol generating substrate can be solid or liquid. The source of smoke can be a polyol such as glycerin or propylene glycol, or a liquid such as water. The smoke source may comprise tobacco material or an extract derived from tobacco material that releases flavor components upon heating. When the scent inhaler 100 is a medical inhaler such as a nebulizer, the smoke source may include medicine for the patient to inhale. Depending on the application, the aerosol-generating substrate may also contain no flavor source.

As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6 , the scent inhaler 100 includes an upper case 131A, a lower case 131B, a cover 132 , a switch 133 and a cover 134 . The outer shell 131 of the scent tasting device 100 is formed by connecting the upper shell 131A and the lower shell 131B to each other. The outer housing 131 may be sized to fit a user's hand. In this case, when the user uses the scent inhaler 100, the user can hold the scent inhaler 100 by hand and taste the smoke.

The upper case 131A has an opening (not shown), and the cover 132 is coupled to the upper case 131A to close the opening. As shown in Figure 6, the cover 132 has an opening 132 B, the smoking article 140 can be inserted. The cover portion 134 is configured as an opening 132B of the cover body 132 that can be opened and closed. Specifically, the cover portion 134 is attached to the cover body 132 and is configured to be movable along the surface of the cover body 132 between a first position for closing the opening 132B and a second position for opening the opening 132B.

The switch 133 is used to switch between the start (ON) and stop (OFF) of the scent inhaler 100 . For example, as shown in FIG. 6, in a state where the smoking article 140 is inserted into the opening 132B, the user operates the switch 133 to supply power from a battery (not shown) to the heating unit (not shown), Rather, the smoking article 140 can be heated in a non-combustible manner. When the smoking article 140 is heated, aerosol is generated from the aerosol source contained in the smoking article 140 and the aroma of the flavor source is mixed into the aerosol. The user can inhale flavor-containing smoke by inhaling the portion of the smoking article 140 that protrudes from the flavor inhaler 100 (the portion shown in FIG. 6 ). Also, in this specification, the direction in which the smoke-generating substrate such as the smoking article 140 is inserted into the opening 132B is referred to as the longitudinal direction of the flavor inhaler 100 .

The configuration of the flavor tasting device 100 shown in Fig. 5 and Fig. 6 is only an example of the configuration of the flavor tasting device of the present invention. The flavor inhaler of the present invention can be constructed in various forms. For example, the smoke can be generated by heating the smoke-generating substrate containing the smoke source, so that the user can inhale the generated smoke source.

"Action of Scent Taster"

Fig. 7 is a flow chart showing an example of the operation of the flavor tasting device according to the first embodiment. When the user starts a tasting (puffing) action from the mouthpiece part 122 , pressure is generated inside the fragrance inhaler 100 , and the sensor 112 detects the pressure. When the sensor 112 detects a pressure above a predetermined value When power is turned on (step S1), the battery 110 starts to supply power to the control unit 106 (step S2). When the control unit 106 having already started supplying electric power starts, the battery 110 starts supplying power to the heater of the atomizing unit 118 (step S3). Thereby, the heater heats the mist source of the atomization part 118 . In addition, the control unit 106 sends the use information of the scent tasting device 100 to the user terminal 200 (step S4).

The control unit 106 is used to determine whether the pressure detected by the sensor 112 has become smaller than a predetermined value (step S5). When the pressure detected by the sensor 112 is equal to or higher than a predetermined value (step S5: No), power supply to the heater is continued. On the other hand, when the pressure detected by the sensor 112 is lower than the predetermined value (step S5: Yes), the control unit 106 stops the battery 110 from supplying power to the heater (step S6).

The control unit 106 determines whether the use information in step S4 has been sent (step S7). When the transmission of the use information has not been completed (step S7: No), power supply to the control unit 106 is continued. On the other hand, when the transmission of the use information has been completed (step S7: Yes), the control unit 106 stops the battery 110 from supplying power to the control unit 106 (step S8). That is, the control unit 106 stops supplying power to the control unit 106 at the later timing of the timing when the sensor 112 is lower than the predetermined pressure or the timing when the transmission of the use information is completed.

As described above, the control unit 106 of the first embodiment transmits usage information to the user terminal 200 for each user's sucking action. In other words, the use information is an example of inhalation information (puff data) issued for each inhalation (puff) action of the fragrance inhaler 100 .

"User Terminal"

The user terminal 200 is a terminal with a communication function such as a smart phone or a tablet terminal. The user terminal 200 has a short-distance wireless communication function such as Bluetooth (registered trademark) or NFC, and a wireless communication function via a broadband communication network such as the Internet. For example, the user terminal 200 and the scent inhaler 100 communicate through short-distance wireless communication, and the user terminal 200 and the communication server 300 communicate using a wireless communication function via a broadband communication network. In addition, the data transmission and reception between the user terminal 200 and the scent inhaler 100 is not limited to short-distance wireless communication, and can also be wireless communication such as wireless LAN or LPWAN. In addition, the user terminal 200 may have a wired communication function such as USB, and may also communicate with the fragrance inhaler 100 through the wired communication function, or communicate with the communication server 300 through the wired communication function.

As mentioned above, the user terminal 200 is, for example, a smart phone or a tablet terminal, but is not limited thereto, and may also be a computer (such as a desktop, a laptop, etc.), a PDA (Personal Digital Assistant, personal digital assistant), Mobile phones, watch-type terminals, eyeglass-type terminals, or other types of computers. In addition, the user terminal 200 may be an intelligent speaker (AI speaker; "AI" is an abbreviation of "artificial intelligence") or a head mounted display (HMD: Head Mounted Display). In addition, the user terminal 200 is not limited to these illustrations.

Fig. 8 is a schematic block diagram showing the configuration of the user terminal according to the first embodiment. The user terminal 200 includes: a display unit 201 , a communication unit 202 , a memory 203 , a storage unit 204 , an information processing unit 205 and an operation unit 206 . In addition, each component is electrically connected to each other via bus lines such as address bus or data bus.

The display unit 201 is means for displaying various display information. display unit 201 For example, it is a display, but it may be any device as long as it can display various display information. For example, the display unit 201 displays the virtual space V according to the display information received from the communication server 300 .

The communication unit 202 is implemented by a communication module. Specifically, the communication unit 202 is configured by a wireless device that performs wireless communication using a wireless communication technology such as short-distance wireless communication, wireless LAN (registered trademark), or LTE. In addition, the communication unit 202 may be constituted by a device performing wired communication. The communication unit 202 communicates with the scent inhaler 100 via, for example, short-distance wireless communication. The communication unit 202 sends the use information indicating that the user has used the scent inhaler 100 to the user terminal 200 via short-distance wireless communication, for example. In addition, the communication unit 202 communicates with the communication server 300 through, for example, wireless communication. The communication unit 202 sends the received usage information or messages to the communication server 300 through wireless communication. In addition, the communication unit 202 receives display information from the communication server 300 through wireless communication.

The memory 203 is constituted by using a RAM such as a volatile memory including a semiconductor element, and is used as a working memory (Work Memory) of the information processing unit 57 . The memory 203 is constituted by, for example, a flash memory or the like. Also, the memory 203 may be a part of the memory 204 .

The memory 204 can be, for example, RAM (Random Access Memory, random access memory), ROM (Read Only Memory, read-only memory), HDD (Hard Disk Drive, hard disk drive), flash memory, or a combination of these A compound memory device of a plurality of memory devices or the like can be realized. In the storage unit 204 , for example, a program or an application program executed by the information processing unit 205 is stored.

The program is, for example, an operating system, which is located between the user or application program and the hard disk drive, and provides a standard interface for the user or application program, and effectively manages various resources such as hardware at the same time.

The application program is an application program used to achieve communication with other users via the virtual space V. The user terminal 200 receives usage information from the scent inhaler 100 by executing the application program, and sends the usage information to the communication server 300 . In addition, the user can display the virtual space V according to the display information received from the communication server 300 . In addition, the user can send a message for communicating with other users to the communication server 300 by operating the user terminal 200 . In addition, the user terminal 200 can implement these functions through PWAs (Progressive Web Apps, progressive web applications) instead of local applications.

All or part of the information processing unit 205 is, for example, a functional unit (hereinafter referred to as a functional unit) implemented by executing programs and application programs stored in the memory 204 by a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit, central processing unit). Software Functions Department). All or part of the information processing unit 205 can be implemented by LSI (Large Scale Integration, large-scale integrated circuit), ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit, designated application integrated circuit) or FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array, field programmable gate Array) and other hardware, or can also be realized by a combination of software function parts and hardware.

The information processing unit 205 executes the process of transmitting the usage information received from the scent inhaler 100 to the communication server 300 via the communication unit 202 . In addition, the information processing unit 205 executes processing for displaying display information received from the communication server 300 on the display unit 201 . In addition, the information processing unit 205 executes the information input by the user using the operation unit 206 The message is displayed on the communication server 300 through the communication unit 202 for processing.

The operation unit 206 is composed of, for example, a touch panel, detects a touch operation performed on the screen displayed on the display unit 201 , and outputs the detection result of the touch operation to the information processing unit 205 .

"Display Form of User Terminal"

Fig. 9 shows an example of a display form displayed on the display unit 201 of the user terminal 200 according to the first embodiment.

The virtual space V is displayed on the display unit 201 of the user terminal 200 . The display unit 201 displays, for example, a virtual three-dimensional space simulating a smoking area.

In addition, the display unit 201 displays an avatar V1 of the user in the virtual space V. As shown in FIG. The avatar V1 is an avatar of the user assigned to the user terminal 200 in the virtual space V. The clone V1 is, for example, displayed as an object imitating a person. Also, the avatar V1 is not limited to an object imitating a person, but can be displayed as any object, such as an object of a fictional character.

In addition, the clone V1 can move in at least one area in the virtual space V. In this case, the area where the avatar V1 moves can be a predetermined area according to each virtual space V, or the entire virtual space V.

In addition, in the display unit 201, the communication information belonging to the object of the display message V2 is displayed (arranged) in the virtual space V. Also, in the following, in terms of the meaning of displaying the communication information of the object belonging to the display message V2, it may also be expressed as displaying the message.

In the example in Fig. 9, the message V2 is displayed around the clone V1. For example, the message V2 is displayed around the avatar V1 corresponding to the user who sent the message V2. Message V2 It can be displayed, for example, as a dialog box or simply as a text message. Also, when the avatar V1 is moving in the virtual space V, the message V2 can move in the virtual space V together with the moving avatar V1.

In addition, the message V2 does not have to be displayed in the virtual space V, and may be displayed in an area different from the virtual space V in the display unit 201 of the user terminal 200 . In this case, the display format of the message V2 may, for example, be displayed in each time series, or may also be displayed in a chat format. In addition, the message V2 can be output by voice as a voice message, or can also be output in other formats or forms.

In addition, a message input unit M is displayed on the display unit 201 . The message input unit M includes a plurality of icons for allowing the user of the user terminal 200 to input a message, an area for displaying the input message, and the like. Also, the message input part M can be in any form as long as the user can input messages. In addition, the message is not limited to manual input, and may also be input by voice or the like.

In addition, the display unit 201 displays in the virtual space V the scent inhaler object V11 possessed by the user's avatar V1. The scent inhaler object V11 held by each avatar V1 in the virtual space V may have the same shape as the scent inhaler 100 used by the user. Also, when the avatar V1 moves in the virtual space V, the scent inhaler object V11 can move in the virtual space V together with the moving avatar V1. In addition, in the virtual space V, a decorative object V3 is arranged. In the example of FIG. 9, the decorative object V3 is a painting or a cabinet. The decoration object V3 is suitable for the background information of the virtual space V. Decoration object V3 can be anything. In addition, the decorative object V3 can move in at least one area in the virtual space V. In this case, the area where the decoration object V3 moves can be a predetermined area for each virtual space V, or the entire virtual space V.

"Communication Server"

The communication server 300 arranges the avatar V1 and the decorative object V3 corresponding to the user (or the user terminal 200) in the virtual space V according to the usage information of the scent inhaler 100 received from the user terminal 200, and The display information (movie or image, etc.) of the virtual space V is sent to the user terminal 200 . In addition, the communication server 300 transmits display information for displaying the message received from the user terminal 200 to the user terminal 200 assigned to the virtual space V.

Fig. 10 is a schematic block diagram showing the configuration of the communication server according to the first embodiment.

The server 300 includes: a virtual space storage unit 301, a user information storage unit 302, a communication unit 303, a designation unit 304, a distribution unit 305, a configuration unit 306, a form determination unit 307, a message receiving unit 308, a delivery unit 309 and space decoration Section 310.

Fig. 11 shows an example of information stored in the virtual space memory unit of the first embodiment.

The virtual space memory unit 301 can be realized by, for example, RAM (Random Access Memory), ROM (Read Only Memory), HDD (Hard Disk Drive), flash memory, or a composite memory device combining multiple memory devices among them.

The virtual space storage unit 301 stores the information of each user's virtual space V. Specifically, the virtual space memory unit 301 memorizes the background data of the virtual space V, the decorative objects V3 in the virtual space V and their configuration information (position and inclination) for each user, and logs in the virtual space V configuration information of the user and clone V1. virtual space V The background data may represent indoor data, for example. In addition, the virtual space V may be a three-dimensional space or a two-dimensional space.

Fig. 12 shows an example of information stored in the user information memory unit of the first embodiment.

The user information storage unit 302 can be realized by, for example, RAM (Random Access Memory), ROM (Read Only Memory), HDD (Hard Disk Drive), flash memory, or a composite memory device combining a plurality of these memory devices. .

The user information storage unit 302 stores status information (login status or logout status for the communication system 1), identification information of the user terminal 200, model data of the avatar V1, and assigned virtual space V according to each user. , the time when the usage information was last received, the history of usage information and the login frequency. The information stored in the user information storage unit 302 is a history of use information, and is use history information. In addition, the information memorized in the user information memory part 302 is not limited to these illustrations but may be any information as long as the information is related to the user.

The communication unit 303 is realized by a communication module. Specifically, the communication unit 303 is configured by a wireless device that performs wireless communication using a wireless LAN (registered trademark) or a wireless communication technology such as LTE. In addition, the communication unit 303 may also be constituted by a device that performs wired communication. The communication unit 303 receives usage information of the scent tasting device 100 from the user terminal 200 . The communication unit 303 records the received usage information and receiving time in the user information storage unit 302 .

Designating unit 304 specifies whether the user (or user terminal 200) is using scent inhalation according to the time when each user (or user terminal 200) last received the use information stored in user information memory unit 302. Tool. Specifically, specifying unit 304 uses The user (or the user terminal 200), the user (or the user terminal 200) in which the elapsed time from the time when the use information was last received is within a predetermined time is specified as being in use. That is to say, the specifying unit 304 specifies the user terminal 200 related to the scent inhaler 100 being used according to the collected usage information. The specifying unit 304 determines the status information of the user (or the user terminal 200) as the login status.

The assigning unit 305 assigns a newly logged-in user to any one of a plurality of virtual spaces V. For example, the allocating unit 305 receives a selection from the user whether to allocate to any one of the virtual space V already allocated to another user and the virtual space V associated with the user. By being assigned to the virtual space V associated with the user, the user can have a smoking experience in the virtual space V decorated by the user. On the other hand, by being allocated to the virtual space V associated with other users, the user can share the smoking experience with other users in the virtual space V decorated by other users.

The allocation unit 306 arranges the avatar V1 object associated with each user (or each user terminal 200 ) in the virtual space V allocated by the allocation unit 305 . The locations where the objects of the avatar V1 are arranged in the virtual space V may be predetermined locations, or may be arbitrarily arranged locations. In addition, the clone V1 can move in at least one area in the virtual space V.

The form determining unit 307 determines the display form representing each user's avatar V1 according to the information stored in the user information storage unit 302 . For example, when the login frequency of the communication system 1 stored in the user information storage unit 302 is below a certain value (or above a certain value), the form determination unit 307 can increase (or decrease) the transparency of the object of the avatar V1. In addition, for example, when the communication system 1 stored in the user information storage unit 302 within a predetermined period When the login frequency is less than a certain time (or more than a certain time), the form determination unit 307 may increase the transparency of the object of the avatar V1. For example, the login frequency can be calculated according to the frequency at which the allocation unit 305 allocates the virtual space to the user terminal 200 , and stored in the user information storage unit 302 . Also, the predetermined period can be any period, such as one day, one week or one month. In addition, the fixed time may be changed depending on the predetermined period, but may be any time such as 10 minutes, 30 minutes, or 1 hour. For example, when the time for logging into the communication system 1 within a predetermined period such as one week is less than a certain time such as one hour, the form determination unit 307 increases the transparency of the object of the avatar V1. Thus, the user and other users can visually understand that the frequency of use of the communication system 1 is decreasing (or increasing).

In addition, the form determination unit 307 can determine the use form of the object of the avatar V1 according to the information related to the use state of the scent inhaler 100 stored in the user information storage unit 302 . For example, according to the use history information stored in the user information storage unit 302, when the charging times or charging frequency of the scent inhaler 100 is below a certain value (or above a certain value), the form determination unit 307 can increase the number of times of the avatar V1. The transparency of the object. The fixed value is, for example, 1 time or 10 times for the number of charging, and 1 time or 10 times for the charging frequency per predetermined period (for example, 1 day, 1 week, 1 month, etc.). However, the certain value is not limited to these examples, and may be any value.

In addition, from the use history information stored in the user information storage unit 302, the form determination unit 307 can increase the number of clones V1 when the number of times of inhalation or the charging frequency of the scent inhaler 100 is below a certain value (or above a certain value). The transparency of the object. The fixed value is, for example, 1 or 10 times for the number of times of tasting, and 1 or 10 times for the number of times of tasting per predetermined period (for example, 1 day, 1 week, or 1 month, etc.) for the frequency of tasting. That is, the morphological determination 307 Determine the transparency (display form) of the object of the avatar V1 according to the information related to the use conditions of the fragrance inhaler 100 contained in the use history information. Thus, the user and other users can visually understand that the frequency of use of the scent taster 100 is decreasing (or increasing).

In addition, for example, if the current puffing (puffing) interval is significantly shorter than the past puffing (puffing) interval calculated from the use history information stored in the user information storage unit 302 (for example, it is half or less) , the shape determination unit 307 can increase the transparency of the object of the clone V1. In addition, for the sucking (puffing) amount calculated from the use history information, if the current sucking amount is significantly smaller than the past sucking amount, the form determination unit 307 can increase the transparency of the object of the avatar V1. That is to say, the form determination unit 307 determines the clone V1 according to the comparison result between the user's current use form of the scent inhaler 100 and the user's past use form of the scent inhaler contained in the use history information. The transparency (display mode) of the object body. Thereby, the user and other users can visually understand the user's physical condition and the like.

In addition, whenever the use information is received from the user terminal 200 , the form determination unit 307 may make the avatar V1 related to the user terminal 200 perform a sucking (puffing) action. In addition, the form determining unit 307 may change the scent inhaler object V11 of the avatar V1 into an object having the appearance of the scent inhaler type indicated by the received usage information. In addition, the form determination unit 307 can display the use history information or purchase history information stored in the user information storage unit 302 near the object of the avatar V1.

The message receiving unit 308 receives messages from the user terminal 200 . Also, the message is an example of communication information. In addition, the message receiving unit 308 can be realized by the communication unit 303 .

The transmission unit 309 transmits the display information on which the virtual space V is drawn to the user terminal 200 of the user assigned to each virtual space V according to the information stored in the virtual space storage unit 301 . That is to say, the transfer unit 309 generates display information by arranging the background data, the avatar V1 and the decorative object V3 in the virtual space V and rendering them. Also, the transfer unit 309 transfers the message received by the message receiving unit 308 to the user terminal 200 of the user assigned to the same virtual space V as the sender (transmitter) of the message. The transmission of messages can be arranged in the form of objects in the virtual space V as shown in Figure 1, or it can also be completed through a chat screen separate from the virtual space V. Also, the display form displayed on the user terminal 200 based on the display information delivered by the delivery unit 309 is, for example, the same as the display form exemplified in FIG. 9 above. In addition, the transfer unit 309 can be realized by the communication unit 303 .

The space decoration unit 310 receives from the user an instruction associated with the user to arrange the decoration object V3 in the virtual space V, and updates the arrangement information of the decoration object V3 in the virtual space storage unit 301 . The space decoration part 310 may allow the user to select any object from all the decorative objects V3, or may allow the user to select any object from the decorative objects V3 for which the user has the configuration right. The placement right of the decorative item V3 is given in exchange for an exchange item that is distributed to the user based on, for example, the use history of the scent inhaler 100 or the use history of the communication system 1 . For example, when the frequency of use or the number of times of use, the frequency of charging or the number of times of charging of the scent inhaler 100 is above a predetermined value, the right to configure the decorative object V3 can be given. In addition, for example, when the frequency of use or the number of times of use of the communication system 1 is more than a predetermined value, the right to arrange the decorative object V3 may be given. In addition, the predetermined value for obtaining the allocation right of the decorative object V3 may be set according to the type of the decorative object V3 or the position to be arranged.

Also, the arrangement weight system of the decorative object V3 can place the decorative object V3 on the virtual The right in the virtual space V, the user can arrange the decorative object V3 with the configuration right in the virtual space V.

In addition, when the points given to the user according to the frequency of use or the number of times of use, charging frequency, and charging times of the scent inhaler 100 are above a predetermined value, the right to configure the decorative object V3 can be given to the user. In addition, when the number of points given to the user according to the frequency of use or the number of times of use of the communication system 1 is greater than a predetermined value, the right to configure the decorative object V3 can be given to the user. In addition, a predetermined value of points for obtaining the arrangement right of the decorative item V3 may be set according to the type of the decorative item V3 or the position to be arranged.

"Communication Server Actions"

Fig. 13 is a flow chart showing the operation of the communication server of the first embodiment. FIG. 13 is an example of operations when the communication server 300 receives usage information as a trigger to allocate virtual space to the user terminal 200 .

The communication server 300 executes the following processes at regular intervals.

The specifying unit 304 of the communication server 300 judges whether the use information is received from the user terminal 200 (step S101 ). When the use information is received (step S101: Yes), the specifying unit 304 specifies the user ID (Identification) of the sender of the received use information (step S102). The specifying unit 304 judges whether the status message associated with the user ID specified in step S102 is a logout state (step S103 ). When the status information is the login status (step S103: No), the user associated with the user ID has logged into the virtual space V. In this case, the specifying unit 304 updates the user ID corresponding to the user ID specified in step S102. Associate the time when the usage information was last received and the last usage information received (step S104).

On the other hand, when the state information is the logout state (step S103: Yes), the user (or the user terminal 200 ) related to the user ID has not logged into the virtual space V yet. In this case, the allocating unit 305 refers to the virtual space storage unit 301, and designates the virtual space V associated with the user (or the user terminal 200) and the virtual space V in which the avatar V1 has already been placed (step S105). The allocating unit 305 transmits to the user terminal 200 a selection screen for accepting selection of one of the designated virtual spaces V (step S106 ). The user operates the user terminal 200 and selects the virtual space V. For example, the user may operate the user terminal 200 and select a virtual space V configured with decorative objects associated with the user terminal 200 (or the user). The selection screen sent to the user terminal 200 by the allocating unit 305 may prompt a virtual space V configured with decorative objects associated with the user terminal 200 (or the user) as one of the virtual spaces V that can be selected. The user terminal 200 sends the identification information (user ID) of the selected virtual space V to the communication server 300 . The allocating unit 305 receives identification information of the selected virtual space V (step S107).

The assignment unit 305 rewrites the status information stored in the user information storage unit 302 in association with the user ID specified in step S102 into the login status (step S108). In addition, the allocating unit 305 adds the user ID specified in step S102 as a user stored in association with the virtual space V selected in step S107 by the virtual space storage unit 301 (step S109 ). In addition, the specifying unit 305 updates the time when the use information was last received and the use information last received in association with the identification information of the user terminal 200 specified in step S102 (step S104 ).

When the memory part is updated according to the user information or when no user message is received (step S101: No), the communication server 300 will select the virtual spaces V stored in the virtual space memory part 301 one by one, and All the virtual spaces V execute the following steps S111 to S115 (step S110).

The configuration unit 306 generates display information of each virtual space V according to the information of the virtual space V selected in step S110 stored in the virtual space storage unit 301 (step S111 ). Specifically, the configuration unit 306 generates display information according to the following steps. First, the arranging unit 306 arranges the background material and the decorative object V3 in the virtual space V stored in the virtual space storage unit 301 . The configuration unit 306 reads out the model data of the user's avatar V1 associated with the virtual space V from the user information storage unit 302 . The arrangement unit 306 arranges the avatar V1 in the virtual space V according to the read model data. Then, the configuration unit 306 generates display information by rendering the virtual space V.

In addition, the form determination unit 307 determines the display form of the avatar V1 arranged based on the information stored in the user information storage unit 302 (step S112 ).

The specifying unit 304 specifies the user assigned to the virtual space V selected in step S110 from the virtual space storage unit 301, and specifies the user terminal 200 of the user from the user information storage unit 302 (step) . Next, the message receiving unit 308 judges whether or not a message has been received from the user terminal 200 specified in step S113 (step S114). When a message is received from the user terminal 200 specified in step S113 (step S114: Yes), the configuration unit 306 adds the received message to the display information (step S115). For example, the arrangement unit 306 arranges the communication information V2 belonging to the object for displaying the received message in the display information.

When the communication information V2 is arranged in the virtual space, the transmitting unit 309 transmits the display information formed by placing the communication information V2 in the virtual space to the user terminal 200 specified in step S112, or when the communication information V2 is arranged in the virtual space, When the 200 does not receive the message (step S114: No), the display information not configured with the communication information V2 is delivered to the user terminal 200 specified in the step S112 (step S116). Thus, on the user terminal 200, it will be displayed in the virtual space V that there are a plurality of avatars V1 including the avatar V1 of the user using the scent inhaler together and exchanging information at the same time.

In addition, the specifying unit 304 of the communication server 300 refers to the user information storage unit 302, and specifies the user whose elapsed time from the time when the use information was last received to the current time is more than a predetermined time (for example, one hour) (step S117). In addition, the predetermined time may be any time such as 30 seconds, 1 minute, or 5 minutes. In addition, the predetermined time can be arbitrarily set by the user. When a predetermined time has elapsed since the last received moment, the user has most likely finished using the scent inhaler 100 . Therefore, the specifying unit 304 instructs the user information storage unit 302 to rewrite the status information stored in association with the user specified in step S117 into a logout status (step S118 ). Furthermore, the specifying unit 304 deletes the user ID of the user specified in step S117 from the virtual space storage unit 301 (step S119).

Also, when the specifying unit 304 rewrites the state information to the logout state, the rewriting operation can be confirmed to the user. For example, the specifying unit 304 may ask the user terminal 200 whether rewriting is possible, and when instructed to rewrite, rewrite the status information to a logout state. By employing such a configuration, it is possible to prevent a user from being logged out while communicating with other users.

Fig. 14 is a flowchart showing another example of the operation of the communication server of the first embodiment. Figure 14 shows the communication server with the user terminal 200 logging in to the communication system 1 as the touch An example of the operation when the virtual space is allocated to the user terminal 200.

When a log-in request is sent from the user terminal 200 to request log-in to the communication system 1 (step S201), the specifying unit 304 of the communication server 300 assigns the user corresponding to the user terminal 200 that issued the log-in The status information associated with the ID is rewritten as the login status (step S202). In this case, the assignment unit 305 can refer to the virtual space storage unit 301, and send a selection screen for selecting the virtual space V associated with the user (or the user terminal 200) to the user terminal 200, so that The user selects the virtual space V to log in. Then, the specifying unit 304 can correlate the user ID corresponding to the user terminal 200 requesting the log-in according to the log-in request including the identifier (for example, the ID of the virtual space V, etc.) that can identify the virtual space V to log in to The status information of the link is overwritten with the login status. Thereafter, the assignment unit 305 assigns the user (or the user terminal 200) to the virtual space V (step S203). In addition, the assigning unit 305 adds the user ID corresponding to the user terminal 200 requesting to log in as the user (or user terminal) stored in association with the virtual space V allocated in step S203 by the virtual space storage unit 301. 200) (step S204).

Afterwards, until the communication server 300 receives a logout request requesting to log out from the communication system 1 from the user terminal 200, or when no usage information is received within a predetermined time (for example, one hour), steps S206 to S206 are repeated. Processing of S212 (step S205). Also, the predetermined time may be any time such as 30 seconds, 1 minute, or 5 minutes. In addition, the predetermined time can be arbitrarily set by the user. When the predetermined time has elapsed from the time of the last reception, the user is likely to have finished using the fragrance taster 100 . Therefore, the specifying unit 304 rewrites the status information stored in association with the user ID by the user information storage unit 302 in step S202 into a logout status (step S213 ).

The specifying unit 304 of the communication server 300 judges whether the usage information is received from the user terminal 200 (step S206 ). When the use information is received (step S206: Yes), the specifying unit 304 specifies the user ID (Identification) of the sender of the received use information (step S207). After that, the configuration unit 306 generates display information of the virtual space V according to the information of the virtual space V allocated in the step S203 stored in the virtual space storage unit 301 (step S208 ). In addition, the form determination unit 307 determines the display form of the arranged avatar V1 according to the information stored in the user information storage unit 302 (step S209 ). On the other hand, if no usage information has been received (step S206: No), proceed to step S210.

The message receiving unit 308 determines whether a message is received from the user terminal 200 (step S210 ). When a message is received from the user terminal 200 (step S210: Yes), the configuration unit 306 adds the received message to the display message (step S211). For example, the arrangement unit 306 arranges the communication information V2 belonging to the object displaying the received message in the display message.

On the other hand, when no message is received (step S211: No), no message is added.

When the communication information V2 is arranged in the virtual space, the transmitting unit 309 transmits the display information of the communication information V2 arranged in the virtual space to the user terminal 200 (step S212), or when the communication information V2 is not received from the user terminal 200 When a message is received (step S210: No), the transmitting unit 309 transmits the display information not configured with the communication information V2 to the user terminal 200 (step S212). Thus, on the user terminal 200, it will be displayed in the virtual space V that A plurality of clones V1 including one's own clone V1 use the scent inhaler together and exchange information.

Thereafter, when the communication server 300 receives a request to log out from the communication system 1 from the user terminal 200, or when the usage information is not received within a predetermined time (for example, 1 hour), the steps from step S206 to step S206 are terminated. The process of S212 is repeated, and the process proceeds to step S213. Then, the specifying unit 304 rewrites the status information stored in the user information storage unit 302 in association with the user ID into a logout status (step S213 ). Furthermore, the specifying unit 304 deletes the user ID from the virtual space storage unit 301 .

"effect. Effect"

Therefore, according to the first embodiment, the communication server 300 specifies the smoker's device according to the use information of the scent inhaler 100, and transmits information about the virtual space V related to the avatar V1 associated with the designated smoker's device. display information for . The avatar V1 is displayed in a form based on the usage information of the fragrance inhaler 100 . Thus, each user can obtain a smoking experience in a virtual smoking environment.

In addition, the communication server 300 determines the display form of the scent inhaler object V11 in the virtual space V according to the type of the scent inhaler 100 displayed by the collected usage information. In this way, the communication server 300 connects the scent inhaler 100 that the user is using with the scent inhaler object V11 owned by the avatar V3, so that the user feels immersed in the virtual space V .

In addition, the communication server 300 determines the display form of the objects of the avatar V1 in the virtual space V according to the state of the scent inhaler 100 represented by the collected usage information. In this way, the communication server 300 links the use state of the user's scent inhaler 100 with the display form of the avatar V1, so that the user can obtain the sense of immersion in the virtual space V.

In addition, the communication server 300 memorizes the configuration information of the decorative objects V3 in the virtual space V according to each user terminal 200 , and transmits the display information of the virtual space in which the decorative objects V3 are arranged in the virtual space V. Thus, the user can obtain the experience of using in the virtual environment decorated by himself, and by inviting other users to join the virtual environment, the virtual environment decorated by the user can be shared with other users.

In addition, according to the first embodiment, the communication server 300 allocates the virtual space V to the user terminal whose elapsed time from the output time of the usage information belonging to the sucking (pumping) information to the current time is a predetermined time. In this way, the communication server 300 can properly distribute the virtual space V to the user who is using the scent inhaler 100 .

As above, one embodiment has been described in detail with reference to the drawings, but the specific configuration is not limited to the above, and various design changes and the like are possible.

Although the communication server 300 of the above-mentioned embodiment arranges the object of the dialog box as the communication information V2 in the virtual space V, it is not limited thereto. For example, the communication information V2 of other embodiments may be placed in a display field in a schedule format set separately from the virtual space V. In addition, the communication data V2 in other embodiments can also be audio data.

In addition, although the user terminal 200 of the said embodiment is a terminal, such as a smartphone, it is not limited to this. For example, the user terminal 200 in other embodiments may also be a head-mounted unit. In this case, the communication server 300 can generate a stereoscopic image rendered with hatching with the line of sight of the user's avatar V1 as display information.

In addition, the form determination unit 307 of the above-mentioned embodiment is used to determine the avatar V1 display form, but not limited to this. For example, the form determination unit 307 of other embodiments may change the form of the background data (day and night, weather (sunny, rainy, cloudy, etc.), season, summer, autumn, winter, etc.) or the form of the BGM according to the usage information. In addition, the background data can also display the shape corresponding to the season for each season (for example, falling cherry blossom petals in spring, fireworks in summer, maple leaves in autumn, snow in winter, etc.). Furthermore, in other embodiments, when the user terminal 200 includes a fragrance display or a taste display, the fragrance of other users' fragrance inhalers 100 can be emitted from the fragrance display or taste display.

In addition, although the decorative object V3 in the above embodiment is an object that visually decorates the virtual space V, in other embodiments, the decorative object V3 can also be associated with an application. For example, the communication shopping program of the fragrance source 128 may also be associated with the decorative object V3 for displaying the storage shelf of the fragrance source 128 . Thus, in the virtual space V, the user can purchase the fragrance source 128 when the avatar V1 touches the decorative object V3 of the storage rack displaying the fragrance source 128 .

In addition, in the above-mentioned first embodiment, although the user of the flavor inhaler 100 was described, the communication system 1 can also be applied to a smoker of a cigarette equipped with a mouthpiece having a communication function. According to this configuration, the mouthpiece can transmit various information such as smoking information of the cigarette detected by the sensor to the smoker's terminal (corresponding to the user terminal 200 ) or the communication server 300 .

"Computer Construction"

Fig. 15 is a schematic block diagram showing the configuration of a computer according to at least one embodiment.

The computer 90 includes: a processor 91 , a main memory 92 , a storage 93 and an interface 94 .

The above-mentioned scent tasting device 100 , user terminal 200 and communication server 300 are respectively installed on the computer 90 . Moreover, the actions of each of the above-mentioned processing units are stored in the memory 93 in the form of programs. The processor 91 reads the program from the storage 93, expands it in the main memory 92, and executes the above-mentioned processing according to the program. In addition, the processor 91 secures a memory area corresponding to each of the above-mentioned memory units in the main memory 92 in the main memory 92 according to a program. Examples of the processor 91 include a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a GPU (Graphic Processing Unit), and a microprocessor.

The program may be a part for realizing the functions to be performed by the computer 90 . For example, a program can function by being combined with other programs already stored in the memory, or in combination with other programs installed in other devices. Also, in other embodiments, in addition to or instead of the above structure, the computer 90 may include a customized LSI (Large Scale Integrated Circuit) such as a PLD (Programmable Logic Device, Programmable Logic Device). Examples of the PLD include PAL (Programmable Array Logic), GAL (Generic Array Logic, general array logic), CPLD (Complex Programmable Logic Device, complex programmable logic device), FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array). In this case, part or all of the functions implemented by the processor 91 may be implemented by the integrated circuit. Such an integrated circuit is also included as an example of a processor.

Examples of the storage 93 include HDD (Hard Disk Drive), SSD (Solid State Drive), magnetic disk, optical disk, CD-ROM (Compact Disc Read Only Memory), DVD-ROM (Digital Versatile Disc Read Only Memory), semiconductor memory, etc. The storage 93 can be an internal medium directly connected to the bus of the computer 90, or it can also be an internal medium connected to the computer 90 via an interface 94 or a communication line. external media. Furthermore, when the program is distributed to the computer 90 via the communication line, the computer 90 that has received the distribution can develop the program in the main memory 92 and execute the above-described processing. In at least one embodiment, storage 93 is a non-transitory tangible memory medium.

In addition, this program can be used to realize part of the above-mentioned functions. In addition, this program may be a so-called update file (update program) that realizes the above-mentioned functions in combination with other programs already stored in the memory 93 .

Also, when the computer in Fig. 15 is, for example, a communication server 300, the communication server 300 includes a processor and the memory configured to execute instructions stored in a memory, and the instructions include: a receiving step, receiving The use information sent by the user terminal when using the scent inhaler, the use information is the information showing that the scent inhaler has been used; the allocation step is to allocate the virtual space to the user according to the received use information the terminal; the configuration step is to configure the object of the character corresponding to the user or the user terminal in the virtual space; the determination step is to determine the display form of the object in the virtual space according to the usage information; and send and sending display information for displaying the virtual space where the object is configured to the user terminal.

[Industrial availability]

The communication server can provide users of the scent inhaler with a virtual use experience different from the real world.

1‧‧‧Communication system

100‧‧‧Flavor tasters

200‧‧‧user terminals

300‧‧‧communication server

V‧‧‧virtual space

V1‧‧‧Avatar

V2‧‧‧Communication information

V3‧‧‧decorative objects

V11‧‧‧Fragrance tasters

Claims (10)

A communication support method, comprising: a receiving step of receiving use information sent by a user terminal when a scent inhaler is used, the aforementioned use information is information indicating that the scent inhaler has been used; a distributing step of Allocate the virtual space to the aforementioned user terminal according to the received aforementioned usage information; the configuration step is to configure the objects corresponding to the user or the aforementioned user terminal in the aforementioned virtual space; the determination step is based on the aforementioned usage The information about the use state of the aforementioned scent inhaler included in the history of the information, and determine the display form of the aforementioned object in the aforementioned virtual space; and the sending step will be used to display the aforementioned virtual space configured with the aforementioned object The display information is sent to the aforementioned user terminal. The communication support method described in claim 1 of the patent application, wherein, in the determining step, the display form of the aforementioned object is determined according to the frequency allocated to the aforementioned virtual space by the aforementioned user terminal. The communication support method as described in item 1 of the scope of patent application, wherein, in the aforementioned determining step, based on the aforementioned user's current use pattern for the aforementioned scent inhaler and the user's awareness of the aforementioned flavor contained in the aforementioned usage information The comparison of the past use forms of the scent inhaler determines the display form of the aforementioned objects. The communication support method described in any one of items 1 to 3 of the scope of the patent application further includes: a memory step, which is to establish an association between the aforementioned user terminal and the decorative objects used to decorate the aforementioned virtual space, and memorize it; In the step of arranging, the decorative object is arranged in the virtual space, and in the step of sending, the display information for displaying the virtual space in which the decorative object is arranged is sent to the user terminal. The communication support method described in item 4 of the scope of the patent application, wherein the aforementioned decorative object is associated with the aforementioned user or the aforementioned user terminal according to the history of the aforementioned use information, and in the aforementioned configuration step, it is associated with the aforementioned user or the aforementioned user terminal The aforementioned decorative objects associated with the aforementioned user terminal can be configured in the virtual space. The communication support method described in any one of items 1 to 3 of the scope of the patent application further includes: a transmission step, which is to transmit the message sent by the aforementioned user terminal to other user terminals allocated to the aforementioned virtual space. The communication support method as described in claim 6 of the patent claims, wherein, in the transmitting step, the display information of the virtual space for displaying the objects on which the information is arranged is transmitted to the user terminal. The communication support method described in any one of items 1 to 3 of the scope of the patent application, wherein the receiving step includes receiving the use information sent by the user terminal according to the communication unit receiving the inhalation information from the aforementioned scent inhaler Step of: In the aforementioned assigning step, the aforementioned user terminals whose elapsed time from the receiving time of the aforementioned taste information to the current time is within a predetermined time are allocated to the aforementioned virtual space. A communication support program, which is used to make the computer perform the following steps: the receiving step is to receive the use information sent by the user terminal when the scent inhaler is used, and the use information indicates that the scent inhaler has been used information used; The allocation step is to allocate the virtual space to the aforementioned user terminal according to the received aforementioned usage information; the configuration step is to configure objects corresponding to the user or the aforementioned user terminal in the aforementioned virtual space; the determination step is to The display form of the aforementioned object in the aforementioned virtual space is determined based on the information about the usage state of the aforementioned scent inhaler included in the history of the aforementioned usage information; and the sending step is used to display the display configuration of the aforementioned object The display information of the aforementioned virtual space is sent to the aforementioned user terminal. A communication server, comprising: a communication unit that receives usage information sent by a user terminal when a fragrance inhaler is used, the aforementioned usage information displays information that the aforementioned fragrance inhaler has been used; a distributing unit that is Allocate the virtual space to the aforementioned user terminal according to the received aforementioned usage information; the allocation unit arranges the objects corresponding to the user or the aforementioned user terminal in the aforementioned virtual space; and the determination unit based on the aforementioned Using the information about the use state of the aforementioned fragrance inhaler included in the history of the information to determine the display form of the aforementioned object in the aforementioned virtual space, wherein the aforementioned communication unit will be used to display the aforementioned virtual space where the aforementioned object is arranged. The display information of the space is sent to the aforementioned user terminal.

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