JP7776757B2 - Management system, management method, management program - Google Patents

Description

This disclosure relates to management technology.

Patent Document 1 discloses a worship support device that supports worship visits to shrines and other places. This worship support device supports donations made by card payment when worshipping.

JP 2018-161278 A

When visiting a shrine or other specific area, it is important to increase the motivation to visit that particular area (the desire to visit that particular area). However, Patent Document 1 does not disclose or suggest anything about how to increase the motivation to visit that particular area.

The purpose of this disclosure is to increase motivation to visit a particular area.

The first aspect is
a first area setting unit that allows a user to select an arbitrary area from among real areas that exist in the real world and sets the area selected by the user as a first area;
a second area setting unit that allows the user to select an area to be associated with the first area from among real areas existing in the real world that are different from the first area or from virtual areas existing in a virtual space, and sets the area selected by the user as a second area;
a first behavior detection unit that detects a predetermined behavior taken by the user in the first area;
a second behavior detection unit that detects a predetermined behavior taken by the user in the second area;
a management unit that grants a reward to the user in accordance with at least one of a predetermined behavior in the first area detected by the first behavior detection unit and a predetermined behavior in the second area detected by the second behavior detection unit,
The second behavior detection unit is a management system that includes at least one of a real behavior detection unit that detects a predetermined behavior in the real world taken in the second area, which is the real area, and a virtual behavior detection unit that detects a predetermined behavior in the virtual space taken in the second area, which is the virtual area.

In the first aspect,
The predetermined action in the first area may include at least one of the user's behavior performed in a predetermined procedure and the user's operation of an information terminal to make a predetermined electronic payment.

In addition, in the first aspect,
The predetermined action in the real world taken in the second area, which is the real area, may be an action related to a predetermined action in the first area.

In addition, in the first aspect,
The predetermined action in the virtual space taken in the second area, which is the virtual area, may include at least one of a movement performed in a predetermined procedure by an object operated by the user in the virtual space, a predetermined electronic payment performed in the virtual space in response to the user's operation, and an action in which the position of the user or the object in the virtual space arrives in the second area.

In addition, in the first aspect,
The reward granted to the user in response to a predetermined action in the real world taken in the second area, which is the real area, may include a benefit to be enjoyed in the virtual space,
The reward given to the user in response to a predetermined action taken in the virtual space in the second area, which is the virtual area, may include a benefit to be enjoyed in the real world.

In addition, in the first aspect,
At least one of the reward granted to the user in response to a predetermined action in the first area and the reward granted to the user in response to a predetermined action in the second area may include a benefit that can be used in the first area or the second area.
Management system.

In addition, in the first aspect,
a lottery unit that performs a lottery for a virtual medium to be used in the virtual space in response to an operation by the user,
The lottery for the virtual medium may include a lottery that can only be held in the second area.

In addition, in the first aspect,
The management unit may perform a login process of accepting a login by the user and granting a login bonus to the user in response to the login by the user.
The login process may be executable in each of the first area and the second area, which is the real area;
A part or all of the login process executable in the second area, which is the real area, may be the same as a part or all of the login process executable in the first area.

In addition, in the first aspect,
The management unit may perform a selling process to sell a virtual medium used in the virtual space in response to an operation by the user,
The virtual medium sold in the virtual space may include a virtual medium that can only be sold in the first area.

In addition, in the first aspect,
a game progression unit that progresses a game in which an object moves in the virtual space in response to an operation by the user,
The game progression unit may progress the game so that the progress of the game within a predetermined range based on the second area, which is the virtual area in the virtual space, is different from the progress of the game when the second area is not set.

In addition, in the first aspect,
a third area setting unit that allows the user to select an area to be associated with the second area from among real areas existing in the real world that are different from the first area and the second area, or from among virtual areas existing in a virtual space that are different from the second area, and sets the area selected by the user as a third area;
a third behavior detection unit that detects a predetermined behavior taken by the user in the third area,
the management unit may grant a reward to the user in accordance with at least one of a predetermined behavior in the first area detected by the first behavior detection unit, a predetermined behavior in the second area detected by the second behavior detection unit, and a predetermined behavior in the third area detected by the third behavior detection unit,
The third behavior detection unit may include at least one of a real behavior detection unit that detects a predetermined behavior in the real world taken in the third area, which is the real area, and a virtual behavior detection unit that detects a predetermined behavior in the virtual space taken in the third area, which is the virtual area.

The second aspect is
a first area setting step of having a user select an arbitrary area from among real areas existing in the real world and setting the area selected by the user as a first area;
a second area setting step of having the user select an area to be associated with the first area from among real areas existing in the real world that are different from the first area or from virtual areas existing in a virtual space, and setting the area selected by the user as a second area;
a first behavior detection step of detecting a predetermined behavior taken by the user in the first area;
a second behavior detection step of detecting a predetermined behavior taken by the user in the second area;
a reward granting step of granting a reward to the user in accordance with at least one of a predetermined behavior in the first area detected in the first behavior detecting step and a predetermined behavior in the second area detected in the second behavior detecting step,
The second behavior detection step is a management method that includes at least one of a real behavior detection step that detects a predetermined behavior in the real world taken in the second area, which is the real area, and a virtual behavior detection step that detects a predetermined behavior in the virtual space taken in the second area, which is the virtual area.

The third aspect is
A management program that causes a computer to execute the above management method.

This disclosure can increase motivation to visit a particular area.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a management system according to a first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of an area terminal. FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of a user terminal. FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram illustrating a specific point (torii gate) included in a first area. FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram illustrating a specific point (shrine) included in the first area. FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram illustrating a specific point (large tree) included in a second area (real area). FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram illustrating a specific point (shrine) included in a second area (virtual area). FIG. 10 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a management system according to a second embodiment. FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a game device. FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a range based on a second area (virtual area). FIG. 10 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a management system according to a third embodiment. FIG. 10 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a management system according to a fourth embodiment. 10 is a flowchart for explaining a lottery process according to a fourth embodiment. 13 is a flowchart for explaining a selling process according to a fifth embodiment.

Embodiments will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. Note that identical or corresponding parts in the drawings will be designated by the same reference numerals, and their description will not be repeated.

(Explanation of terms)
First, the terms used in the following description will be explained. Terms such as virtual space, area, and game will be used below.

[Virtual Space]
A virtual space is a virtual space constructed on a computer network. The virtual space is a three-dimensional space. However, the virtual space may be a two-dimensional space. For example, the virtual space is a virtual space in which objects that move in response to user operations are placed (for example, a metaverse space in which avatars are placed).

Examples of virtual spaces include virtual reality spaces where you can experience virtual reality (VR), augmented reality spaces where you can experience augmented reality (AR), a real world where additional information is displayed, mixed reality spaces where you can experience mixed reality (MR), which combines the real world and the virtual world, and game spaces where games, which will be described later, are played.

〔area〕
An area is a predetermined area (for example, land). Areas are broadly divided into "real areas" that exist in the real world and "virtual areas" that exist in a virtual space.

An example of a real area is an area that includes a location where a specific object that exists in the real world is located. Examples of specific objects that exist in the real world include man-made objects that are fixed to the ground, such as buildings, and natural objects such as rocks and trees. Examples of buildings include the main hall of a shrine or the main hall of a temple.

An example of a virtual area is an area in which specific objects that exist within a virtual space are placed. Examples of specific objects include objects that imitate man-made objects in the real world (e.g., buildings), and objects that imitate natural objects in the real world.

〔game〕
The game is a game (video game) that progresses in a virtual space in response to user operations. For example, the game is a game in which a player character moves within the virtual space in response to user operations. Examples of such games include action games in which the player character defeats enemy characters within the virtual space, and life simulation games in which the player character lives within the virtual space.

(Embodiment 1)
1 illustrates an example of the configuration of a management system 1 according to embodiment 1. The management system 1 includes a management server 10, an area terminal 20, and a user terminal 30.

[Management Server]
The management server 10 includes a network interface 11, a storage unit 12, and a control unit 13. The network interface 11 and the storage unit 12 are electrically connected to the control unit 13 via a bus.

The network interface 11 is communicatively connected to the communication network 5 to send and receive various information and data to and from other information terminals (e.g., the area terminal 20 and the user terminal 30).

The memory unit 12 stores various types of information and data. The memory unit 12 is composed of an HDD, SSD, RAM, ROM, etc. The memory unit 12 stores programs and data for executing various processes. The information and data stored in the memory unit 12 will be explained in detail later.

The control unit 13 controls the operation of the management server 10. The control unit 13 sends and receives various information and data, and processes various information and data. The control unit 13 has a CPU (microcomputer) and memory. The memory stores programs and data for operating the CPU.

[Area terminal]
The area terminal 20 is provided to manage a specific real area. The area terminal 20 may be provided inside the specific real area or outside the specific real area.

As shown in FIG. 2, the area terminal 20 has a network interface 21, a memory unit 22, and a control unit 23. The network interface 21 and memory unit 22 are electrically connected to the control unit 23 via a bus.

The network interface 21 is communicatively connected to the communication network 5 to send and receive various information and data to and from other information terminals (e.g., the management server 10 and the user terminal 30).

The memory unit 22 stores various types of information and data. The memory unit 22 is composed of an HDD, SSD, RAM, ROM, etc. The memory unit 22 stores programs and data for executing various processes.

The control unit 23 controls the operation of the area terminal 20. The control unit 23 sends and receives various types of information and data, and processes them. The control unit 23 has a CPU (microcomputer) and memory. The memory stores programs and data for operating the CPU.

[Devices connected to area terminals]
In this example, a camera 41, a microphone 42, a sensor 43, an electronic payment terminal 44, a display 45, and a speaker 46 are connected to the area terminal 20. Note that multiple cameras 41 may be provided as needed. The same applies to the microphone 42, the sensor 43, the electronic payment terminal 44, the display 45, and the speaker 46.

The camera 41, microphone 42, and sensor 43 are provided to detect the user's behavior. Specifically, the camera 41, microphone 42, and sensor 43 are provided in the "location where the user intends to perform a predetermined behavior" in the first area A10, and acquire information for detecting the user's behavior at that location.

The camera 41 captures images (image data). The microphone 42 collects sound (audio data). The sensor 43 acquires various information derived from the user's actions (particularly physical behavior). Examples of sensors 43 include a vibration sensor that detects vibrations associated with the user's actions, and an optical sensor (e.g., an infrared sensor) that detects the presence and movement of the user.

The electronic payment terminal 44 is an information terminal capable of making electronic payments. Specifically, the electronic payment terminal 44 is installed in the "location where the user wishes to make an electronic payment" in the first area A10, and accepts electronic payments from the user at that location. Examples of electronic payments include touch payment using a card such as a transportation IC card or credit card, and payment using a payment app such as QR code (registered trademark) payment. Well-known electronic payment devices can be used for the electronic payment terminal 44.

The display 45 displays (outputs) images. The speaker 46 outputs sound. The display 45 and speaker 46 are provided to provide images and sound to the user. Specifically, the display 45 and speaker 46 are provided in the "location in the first area A10 where images and sound are to be provided to the user," and output images and sound to the user in that location.

[User terminal]
The user terminal 30 is an example of an information terminal used by a user. In this example, the user terminal 30 is a portable information terminal that can be carried by the user. Examples of portable information terminals include a smartphone and a tablet. The location of the user terminal 30 carried by the user is considered to be the "user's location in the real world."

As shown in FIG. 3, the user terminal 30 has a network interface 31, an operation unit 32, a display 33, a speaker 34, a camera 35, a microphone 36, a sensor 37, a memory unit 38, and a control unit 39. The network interface 31, operation unit 32, display 33, speaker 34, camera 35, microphone 36, sensor 37, and memory unit 38 are electrically connected to the control unit 39 via a bus.

The network interface 31 is communicatively connected to the communication network 5 to send and receive various information and data to and from other information terminals (e.g., the management server 10 and the area terminal 20).

Operations by the user, who is the operator, are input to the operation unit 32. The operation unit 32 then transmits a signal corresponding to the input operation to the control unit 39. With this configuration, by inputting an operation into the operation unit 32, information corresponding to that operation can be input.

The display 33 displays (outputs) images to the user who is the operator. The speaker 34 outputs audio to the user who is the operator. The camera 35 captures images (image data). The microphone 36 collects audio (audio data).

The sensor 37 acquires various information related to the user terminal 30. The various information acquired by the sensor 37 is transmitted to the control unit 39. In this example, the sensor 37 includes a position sensor 371 and a behavior sensor 372.

The position sensor 371 detects the position (specifically, latitude and longitude) of the user terminal 30. For example, the position sensor 371 receives GPS information from the Global Positioning System and detects the position of the user terminal 30 based on the GPS information.

The behavior sensor 372 acquires information to detect the behavior (body movement) of the user carrying the user terminal 30. Specifically, the behavior sensor 372 detects changes in the state of the user terminal 30 (e.g., acceleration, angular velocity, attitude, etc.) in response to the user's behavior. Examples of the behavior sensor 372 include an acceleration sensor and a gyro sensor.

The memory unit 38 stores various types of information and data. The memory unit 38 is composed of an HDD, SSD, RAM, ROM, etc. The memory unit 38 stores programs and data for executing various processes, account information assigned to the user who owns the user terminal 30, etc.

The control unit 39 controls the operation of the user terminal 30. The control unit 39 sends and receives various information and data, and processes various information and data. The control unit 39 has a CPU (microcomputer) and memory. The memory stores programs and data for operating the CPU.

[Software configuration of the control unit of the management server]
1 , the control unit 13 of the management server 10 in the first embodiment includes a virtual space generation unit 110, a first area setting unit 210, a second area setting unit 220, a first behavior detection unit 310, a second behavior detection unit 320, and a management unit 400. In other words, the control unit 13 functions as the virtual space generation unit 110, the first area setting unit 210, the second area setting unit 220, the first behavior detection unit 310, the second behavior detection unit 320, and the management unit 400 by the CPU executing various programs.

The virtual space generation unit 110 generates a virtual space by performing processing to build and update the virtual space.

The first area setting unit 210 allows the user to select any area from the real area and sets the selected area as the "first area A10."

The second area setting unit 220 allows the user to select an "area to be associated with the first area A10" from among real areas or virtual areas that are different from the first area A10, and sets the selected area as the "second area A20." The second area A20 is associated with the first area A10.

Note that the second area A20 includes a second area A20 that is a real area and a second area A20 that is a virtual area. Hereinafter, the second area A20 that is a real area will be referred to as the "second real area A21," and the second area A20 that is a virtual area will be referred to as the "second virtual area A22."

The first behavior detection unit 310 detects a predetermined behavior taken by the user in the first area A10. The second behavior detection unit 320 detects a predetermined behavior taken by the user in the second area A20.

The second behavior detection unit 320 has at least one of a real behavior detection unit 321 and a virtual behavior detection unit 322 (in this example, both). The real behavior detection unit 321 detects a predetermined behavior in the real world taken in the second real area A21. The predetermined behavior in the real world is a predetermined behavior taken by the user himself in the real world. The virtual behavior detection unit 322 detects a predetermined behavior in the virtual space taken in the second virtual area A22. The predetermined behavior in the virtual space is a predetermined behavior taken in the virtual space in response to a user's operation.

The management unit 400 performs a reward granting process. In the reward granting process, the management unit 400 grants a reward to the user in accordance with at least one of a predetermined behavior in the first area A10 detected by the first behavior detection unit 310 and a predetermined behavior in the second area A20 detected by the second behavior detection unit 320.

In this example, the management unit 400 also performs login processing. In the login processing, the management unit 400 accepts a login by a user and grants a login bonus to the user in response to the user's login. The login bonus is an example of a reward.

[Information and data stored in the storage unit of the management server]
In this example, the storage unit 12 of the management server 10 stores account information, first area information, second area information, and reward information for each user. For example, the storage unit 12 stores a database in which the account information, first area information, second area information, and reward information are registered as one record (information corresponding to one user).

<Account Information>
The account information includes a user ID and a password assigned to the user. The user ID is user identification information for identifying the user.

<1st Area Information>
The first area information is information about the first area A10 associated with the user. The first area information includes first area position information indicating the location range of the first area A10. The location range of the first area A10 is a range based on a reference point of the first area A10 (e.g., a circular range centered on the central point of the first area A10). For example, the location range of the first area A10 is set based on instructions from an area administrator (or user).

In addition to the first area location information, the first area information also includes first area identification information for identifying the first area A10, and first area description information that provides an explanation of the first area A10. Examples of first area identification information include a unique number or name. Examples of the explanation of the first area A10 include history or legend. For example, the explanation of the first area A10 is created based on instructions from the area administrator (or user).

<Location information within the first area>
The storage unit 12 also stores first area point information. The first area point information is information about specific points included in the first area A10 and is associated with the first area information. The first area point information includes specific point position information indicating the position range of the specific point included in the first area A10 and an action pattern indicating a predetermined pattern of action to be taken at the specific point. Examples of specific points included in the first area A10 include a shrine's torii gate, a chozuya (purification fountain), a main shrine building, a temple gate, an incense burner, and a main hall. For example, the first area point information is created based on instructions from an area administrator (or user).

In addition to specific point location information and behavior patterns, the first area point information also includes specific point identification information for identifying the specific point, and specific point explanation information that provides an explanation of the specific point. Examples of specific point identification information include a unique number or name. Examples of explanations of specific points include history and legends. For example, explanations of specific points are created based on instructions from the area administrator (or user).

<First identification image>
The storage unit 12 also stores a first identification image. The first identification image is an image (image data) including an identification placed in the first area A10, and is associated with the first area information. Examples of identifications (first identifications) placed in the first area A10 include a shrine's torii gate, a chozuya (purification foyer), a main building, a temple gate, an incense burner, and a main hall. The first identification image is used in the third login process, which will be described later. For example, the first identification image is created based on instructions from the area administrator (or user).

<Second Area Information>
The second area information is information about the second area A20 associated with the user and the first area A10. The second area information includes second area position information indicating the location range of the second area. The location range of the second area A20 is a range based on a reference point of the second area A20 (e.g., a circular range centered on the central point of the second area A20). For example, the location range of the second area A20 is set based on instructions from an area administrator (or user).

In addition to the second area location information, the second area information also includes second area description information that provides an explanation of the second area A20. Examples of the explanation of the second area A20 include the name and history of the second area A20. For example, the explanation of the second area A20 is created based on instructions from the area administrator (or user).

The second area information is broadly divided into second area information relating to the second real area A21 and second area information relating to the second virtual area A22. Hereinafter, second area information relating to the second real area A21 will be referred to as "second real area information," and second area information relating to the second virtual area A22 will be referred to as "second virtual area information."

<Location information within the second area>
The storage unit 12 also stores second area point information. The second area point information is information about specific points included in the second area A20 and is associated with the second area information. The second area point information includes specific point position information that indicates the position range of the specific point included in the second area A20 and an action pattern that indicates a predetermined pattern of action to be taken at the specific point. For example, the second area point information is created based on instructions from an area administrator (or user).

In addition to specific point location information and behavior patterns, the second area point information also includes specific point identification information for identifying the specific point, and specific point explanation information that provides an explanation of the specific point. Examples of specific point identification information include a unique number or name. Examples of explanations of specific points include history and legends. For example, explanations of specific points are created based on instructions from the area administrator (or user).

Note that second area location information is broadly divided into second area location information associated with second real area information and second area location information associated with second virtual area information. Hereinafter, second area location information associated with second real area information will be referred to as "second real area location information," and second area location information associated with second virtual area information will be referred to as "second virtual area location information."

The second real area point information is information about a specific point (a real-world point) included in the second real area A21 indicated in the second real area information. Examples of specific points included in the second real area A21 include a park entrance/exit gate, a hand-washing area, and a large tree. The behavior pattern included in the second area point information associated with the second real area information indicates a predetermined pattern of behavior that should be taken by the user at the specific point (a real-world point).

The second virtual area point information is information about a specific point (a point in virtual space) included in the second virtual area A22 indicated in the second virtual area information. Examples of specific points included in the second virtual area A21 include the torii gate of a shrine in virtual space, a chozuya (water purification fountain), a main shrine building, a temple gate in virtual space, an incense burner, and a main hall. The behavior pattern included in the second area point information associated with the second virtual area information indicates a predetermined pattern of behavior to be taken by a user or an object (an object controlled by a user) at the specific point (a point in virtual space).

<Image of second identification item>
The storage unit 12 also stores a second identification object image. The second identification object image is an image (image data) including an identification object placed in the second real area A21 (the second area A20, which is a real area), and is associated with the second real area information. Examples of identification objects (second identification objects) placed in the second real area A21 include a park entrance/exit gate, a hand-washing area, and a large tree. The second identification object image is used in the third login process, which will be described later, and the like.

<Reward Information>
Reward information is information indicating a reward granted to a user. When a reward (data) granted to a user is registered in the reward information associated with that user, the reward is granted to the user. Rewards will be explained in detail later.

[Software configuration of the control unit of the area terminal]
2, the control unit 23 of the area terminal 20 has an information processing unit 25a. In other words, the control unit 23 functions as the information processing unit 25a when the CPU thereof executes various programs.

The information processing unit 25a processes various types of information and data. The information processing unit 25a sends and receives various types of information and data to and from the management server 10. The information processing unit 25a also operates in response to control by the control unit 13 of the management server 10. The information processing unit 25a also sends and receives various types of information and data to and from the user terminal 30. The information processing unit 25a sends and receives data and information via the network interface 21.

[Software configuration of the control unit of the user terminal]
3, the control unit 39 of the user terminal 30 has a virtual space processing unit 39a and an information processing unit 39b. In other words, the control unit 39 functions as the virtual space processing unit 39a and the information processing unit 39b by the CPU executing various programs.

The virtual space processing unit 39a, together with the virtual space generation unit 110 of the management server 10, performs processing to build and update the virtual space.

The information processing unit 39b processes various types of information and data. The information processing unit 39b sends and receives various types of information and data to and from the management server 10. The information processing unit 39b also operates in response to control by the control unit 13 of the management server 10. The sending and receiving of data and information by the information processing unit 39b is performed via the network interface 31.

For example, the information processing unit 39b controls the display 33 and speaker 34 of the user terminal 30 based on various information and data transmitted from the control unit 13 of the management server 10. The information processing unit 39b also generates various information in response to operations input to the operation unit 32 of the user terminal 30, and transmits the various information to the management server 10. The control unit 13 of the management server 10 operates based on the various information transmitted from the information processing unit 39b of the user terminal 30.

[Processing between the management server and the user terminal]
In the following explanation, the processing flow, "The control unit 13 of the management server 10 transmits information and data for outputting an image (or sound) to the user terminal 30. The control unit 39 (e.g., information processing unit 39b) of the user terminal 30 controls the display 33 (or speaker 34) of the user terminal 30 so that an image (or sound) is output based on the information and data transmitted from the management server 10," will be simply described as "The control unit 13 of the management server 10 controls the display 33 (or speaker 34) of the user terminal 30 so that an image (or sound) is output."

In addition, in the following explanation, the process flow, "When a user operation is input into the operation unit 32 of the user terminal 30, the control unit 39 (e.g., information processing unit 39b) of the user terminal 30 generates various information in accordance with the information input into the operation unit 32 and transmits the various information to the management server 10. The control unit 13 of the management server 10 operates based on the various information transmitted from the user terminal 30," will simply be described as "When a user operation is input into the user terminal 30, the control unit 13 of the management server 10 operates in response to the operation."

[Processing performed in the management system]
The processing (management processing) by the management system 1 includes a virtual space construction processing, a first area setting processing, a second area setting processing, a login processing, a first behavior detection processing, a second behavior detection processing, a reward granting processing, and the like.

The management process performed by the management system 1 is an example of a management method. The various processes in the management process are examples of various steps. For example, the first area setting process is an example of a first area setting step. A program for executing the management process (such as a program stored in the memory unit 12) is an example of a management program. A control unit included in the management system 1 (such as the control unit 13 of the management server 10) is an example of a computer that executes the management program.

[Virtual space construction processing]
Next, the process (virtual space construction process) performed by the virtual space generation unit 110 of the management server 10 and the virtual space processing unit 39a of the user terminal 30 will be described.

The virtual space generation unit 110 of the management server 10 transmits virtual space data, which is data for constructing a virtual space, to the user terminal 30. The virtual space processing unit 39a of the user terminal 30 outputs images and sounds representing the virtual space to the display 33 and speaker 34 based on the virtual space data transmitted from the management server 10. The user views the images and sounds output from the display 33 and speaker 34 and operates the operation unit 32.

The virtual space processing unit 39a of the user terminal 30 transmits operation information indicating the operation input to the operation unit 32 to the management server 10. The virtual space generation unit 110 of the management server 10 generates virtual space data that reflects the operation information transmitted from the user terminal 30, and transmits the virtual space data to the user terminal 30.

By repeating the above process, the virtual space is constructed and updated.

[First area setting process]
Next, a description will be given of the processing (first area setting processing) performed by the first area setting unit 210. For example, a user who intends to set the first area A10 inputs an operation (first setting operation) for starting setting of the first area A10 into the user terminal 30. In response to the first setting operation, the first area setting unit 210 performs the following processing.

First, the first area setting unit 210 displays an image of the first area selection screen on the display 33 of the user terminal 30. The first area selection screen is a screen for selecting the real area to be set as the first area A10.

For example, the first area selection screen may include a map of the real world, allowing the user to select any area from that map. Alternatively, the first area selection screen may include an input field where information (e.g., an address) can be entered to specify the location range of the real area to be set as the first area A10.

The user refers to the image of the first area selection screen displayed on the display 33 of the user terminal 30, and inputs an operation (first area selection operation) into the operation unit 32 of the user terminal 30 to select the real area to be set as the first area A10.

For example, the first area selection operation is an operation of selecting a real area to be set as the first area A10 from a map included in the first area selection screen, or an operation of inputting information to specify the location range of the real area to be set as the first area A10. Examples of the former operation include an operation of specifying an arbitrary position (e.g., a point) on the displayed map to display a pin indicating the specified position on the map and select an area including the specified position as the real area, and an operation of selecting a real area from an image displaying the scenery of a specified location on the map (scenery in the real world). Examples of the latter operation include an operation of inputting the name of a facility, building, object, etc.

In response to the first area selection operation, the first area setting unit 210 sets the area selected by the user (real area) as the first area A10. The first area setting unit 210 then associates first area information indicating the location range of the set first area A10 with the user and stores it in the memory unit 12 of the management server 10.

The first area setting unit 210 also acquires information about the area (real area) selected by the user as the first area A10, and registers this information in the first area information stored in the storage unit 12. Examples of information about the area selected by the user include area identification information for identifying the area, and area description information that provides a description of the area. Note that this information is created, for example, based on instructions from the area administrator (or user).

The first area setting unit 210 also acquires intra-area point information related to specific points included in the area (real area) selected by the user as the first area A10, associates the intra-area point information with the first area information stored in the storage unit 12, and stores the intra-area point information in the storage unit 12. As a result, the first intra-area point information associated with the first area information is stored in the storage unit 12. Note that the intra-area point information is created, for example, based on instructions from the area administrator (or user).

The first area setting unit 210 also acquires an identified object image including an identified object placed in the area (real area) selected by the user as the first area A10, associates the identified object image with the first area information stored in the storage unit 12, and stores the identified object image in the storage unit 12. As a result, the first identified object image associated with the first area information is stored in the storage unit 12. Note that the identified object image is created based on instructions from, for example, the area administrator (or user).

[Second Area Setting Process]
Next, a description will be given of the processing (second area setting processing) performed by the second area setting unit 220. For example, a user who wishes to set the second area A20 inputs an operation (second setting operation) for starting the setting of the second area A20 into the user terminal 30. In response to the second setting operation, the second area setting unit 220 performs the following processing.

First, the second area setting unit 220 detects the first area information associated with the user from the memory unit 12, and identifies the first area A10 associated with the user based on the first area information. Then, the second area setting unit 220 displays an image of a first area confirmation screen showing the first area A10 associated with the user on the display 33 of the user terminal 30.

The user refers to the image of the first area confirmation screen displayed on the display 33 of the user terminal 30, and inputs an operation (first area designation operation) into the user terminal 30 to designate "the first area A10 to which the user wishes to associate a new second area A20" from among the first areas A10 associated with the user.

Next, the second area setting unit 220 displays an image of an area type selection screen on the display 33 of the user terminal 30. The area type selection screen is a screen for selecting whether the area to be set as the second area A20 will be a "real area" or a "virtual area." The user refers to the image of the area type selection screen displayed on the display 33 of the user terminal 30, and inputs an operation (type selection operation) into the user terminal 30 to select either a "real area" or a "virtual area."

Next, the second area setting unit 220 displays an image of the second area selection screen on the display 33 of the user terminal 30. The second area selection screen is a screen that allows the user to select an area to be set as the second area A20. The second area selection screen is similar to the first area selection screen.

If "Real Area" is selected by the type selection operation, the second area selection screen becomes a screen for selecting a real area to be set in the second area A20. If "Virtual Area" is selected by the type selection operation, the second area selection screen becomes a screen for selecting a virtual area to be set in the second area A20.

For example, if "Virtual Area" is selected by the type selection operation, the second area selection screen will include a map of the virtual space, and it will be possible to select any area from that map. Alternatively, the second area selection screen will have an input field where information (e.g., an address in the virtual space) can be entered to identify the location of the virtual area to be set as second area A20.

The user refers to the image of the second area selection screen displayed on the display 33 of the user terminal 30, and inputs an operation (second area selection operation) into the operation unit 32 of the user terminal 30 to select the area (real area or virtual area) to be set as the second area A20. The second area selection operation is the same as the first area selection operation.

In response to the second area selection operation, the second area setting unit 220 sets the area (real area or virtual area) selected by the user as the second area A20. The second area setting unit 220 then associates second area information indicating the location range of the set second area A20 with the "user" and the "first area A10 specified by the first area designation operation" and stores it in the memory unit 12 of the management server 10. As a result, the second area information associated with the user and the first area A10 is stored in the memory unit 12.

The second area setting unit 220 also acquires information about the area (real area or virtual area) selected by the user as the second area A20, and registers this information in the second area information stored in the storage unit 12. Examples of information about the area selected by the user include area identification information for identifying the area, and area description information that provides a description of the area. Note that this information is created, for example, based on instructions from the area administrator (or user).

The second area setting unit 220 also acquires intra-area point information related to specific points included in the area (real area or virtual area) selected by the user as the second area A20, associates the intra-area point information with the second area information stored in the storage unit 12, and stores the information in the storage unit 12. As a result, the second intra-area point information associated with the second area information is stored in the storage unit 12. Note that the intra-area point information is created, for example, based on instructions from the area administrator (or user).

Furthermore, if the area selected as the second area A20 is a "real area," the second area setting unit 220 acquires an identified object image including an identified object placed in the area selected by the user as the second area A20 (real area), associates the identified object image with the second area information stored in the memory unit 12 (second real area information related to the second area A20, which is a real area), and stores the identified object image in the memory unit 12. As a result, the second identified object image associated with the second real area information is stored in the memory unit 12. Note that the identified object image is created based on instructions from, for example, the area administrator (or user).

[Login process]
Next, the login process performed by management unit 400 will be described. The login process is a process for permitting (accepting) a user's login. The login process can be performed in both first area A10 and second real area A21. Some or all of the login process that can be performed in second real area A21 is the same as some or all of the login process that can be performed in first area A10.

In the login process for each of the first area A10 and the second real area A21, a user is permitted to log in on the condition that the user's location (specifically, the location of the user terminal 30) is included in the specific real area (first area A10 or second real area A21) associated with that user. Examples of login processes include the following five login processes (first to fifth login processes).

<First login process>
In the first login process, in response to a user's operation, "account information assigned to the user" and "location information indicating the user's location" are sent from the user terminal 30 to the management server 10, and whether the user can log in is determined based on the account information and location information.

For example, a user attempting to log in inputs an operation (first login operation) to start the first login process into the user terminal 30. When the first login operation is input into the user terminal 30, the following process is performed.

In response to the first login operation, the information processing unit 39b of the user terminal 30 acquires account information (account information assigned to the user) stored in the memory unit 38 of the user terminal 30. In addition, in response to the first login operation, the information processing unit 39b acquires the latest location information (location information indicating the user's location) obtained by the location sensor 371 of the user terminal 30. The information processing unit 39b then associates the account information with the location information and transmits it to the management server 10.

The management unit 400 of the management server 10 identifies the user to whom the account information sent from the user terminal 30 is assigned, and detects the first area information and second real area information associated with that user from the memory unit 12 of the management server 10. The management unit 400 then obtains the location range of the first area A10 indicated in the first area information and the location range of the second real area A21 indicated in the second real area information. Hereinafter, the first area A10 and the second real area A21 will be collectively referred to as "specific real areas," and the first area information and second real area information will be collectively referred to as "specific real area information."

Next, the management unit 400 determines whether the user's location is included in the specific real area associated with the user based on the location information transmitted from the user terminal 30 and the location range of the specific real area indicated in the specific real area information. Specifically, the management unit 400 determines that the user's location is included in the specific real area if the "user's location" indicated in the location information transmitted from the user terminal 30 is included in the "location range of the specific real area," and otherwise determines that the user's location is not included in the specific real area.

If the user's location is within a specific real-world area, the management unit 400 allows the user to log in. The management unit 400 then notifies the user terminal 30 that the login has been permitted. For example, the management unit 400 displays an image indicating that the login has been permitted on the display 33 of the user terminal 30.

The management unit 400 also grants a login bonus to users who are permitted to log in. Specifically, the management unit 400 associates the login bonus granted to a user with that user and stores it in the memory unit 12 of the management server 10. For example, the management unit 400 registers the login bonus granted to a user in the reward information (reward information associated with that user) stored in the memory unit 12. The management unit 400 then notifies the user that a login bonus has been granted. For example, the management unit 400 displays an image indicating that a login bonus has been granted on the display 33 of the user terminal 30.

On the other hand, if the user's location is not included in a specific real-world area, the management unit 400 denies the user's login. The management unit 400 then notifies the user terminal 30 that the login has been denied. For example, the management unit 400 displays an image indicating that the login has been denied on the display 33 of the user terminal 30.

<Second Login Process>
In the second login process, "account information assigned to the user" and "location information indicating the user's location" are periodically sent from the user terminal 30 to the management server 10, and whether the user can log in is determined based on the account information and location information.

For example, a user attempting to log in inputs an operation (second login operation) to start the second login process into the user terminal 30. When the second login operation is input into the user terminal 30, the following process is performed. Note that the second login operation may simply be an operation to launch a dedicated app (an app for performing the second login process).

In response to the second login operation, the information processing unit 39b of the user terminal 30 performs automatic transmission processing. In the automatic transmission processing, the information processing unit 39b periodically acquires the latest location information (location information indicating the user's location) obtained by the location sensor 371, and each time this location information is acquired, it associates the location information with the account information stored in the memory unit 38 (account information assigned to the user) and transmits it to the management server 10.

The subsequent processing (determining whether or not to allow login based on account information and location information on the management server 10) is the same as the first login processing.

<Third login process>
In the third login process, in response to a user operation, an image (an image of the user's current location) is acquired by the camera 35 of the user terminal 30, and whether the user can log in is determined based on the account information assigned to the user and the image acquired by the camera 35.

For example, a user attempting to log in inputs an operation (third login operation) to start the third login process into the user terminal 30. When the third login operation is input into the user terminal 30, the following process is performed.

In response to the third login operation, the information processing unit 39b of the user terminal 30 activates the camera 35. The information processing unit 39b then instructs the user to take a photograph of an identified object placed in a specific real area (first area A10 or second real area A21) with the camera 35 of the user terminal 30. For example, the information processing unit 39b displays an image on the display 33 of the user terminal 30 instructing the user to take a photograph of the identified object with the camera 35.

The user photographs an identified object placed in a specific real-world area with the camera 35 of the user terminal 30. This results in an image (image data) containing the identified object. The information processing unit 39b then associates the image captured by the camera 35 with the account information (account information assigned to the user) stored in the memory unit 38 and transmits the image to the management server 10.

The management unit 400 of the management server 10 identifies the user to whom the account information transmitted from the user terminal 30 has been assigned, and detects the first area information and second real area information (second area information related to the second real area A21) associated with that user from the memory unit 12 of the management server 10. The management unit 400 then detects the first identified object image associated with the first area information and the second identified object image associated with the second real area information from the memory unit 12.

In the following, the first identified object image and the second identified object image will be collectively referred to as the "identified object image." An identified object image is an image (image data) that includes an identified object placed in a specific real area.

The management unit 400 then compares the image transmitted from the user terminal 30 with the identified object image, and determines, based on the results of the comparison, whether the user's location is included in the specific real area (first area A10 or second real area A21) associated with the user. Specifically, if the similarity between the image transmitted from the user terminal 30 and the identified object image exceeds a threshold, the management unit 400 determines that the user's location is included in the specific real area; otherwise, it determines that the user's location is not included in the specific real area.

If the user's location is within a specific real-world area, the management unit 400 allows the user to log in. The management unit 400 then notifies the user terminal 30 that the login has been permitted. The management unit 400 also grants a login bonus to the user whose login has been permitted. The management unit 400 then notifies the user that the login bonus has been granted.

On the other hand, if the user's location is not included in the specific real-world area, the management unit 400 denies the user's login. The management unit 400 then notifies the user terminal 30 that the login has been denied.

<Fourth Login Process>
When the fourth login process is performed, an object 40 (see FIGS. 4 and 5) with an identification code CC is placed in a specific real area (first area A10 or second real area A21). For example, the object 40 with the identification code CC is placed at an entrance or exit to the specific real area, or at a specific location included in the specific real area. The identification code CC indicates unique identification information assigned to the specific real area. Examples of the identification code CC include a two-dimensional code such as a QR code (registered trademark) and a one-dimensional code such as a barcode.

In the fourth login process, an image including an identification code CC attached to an object 40 placed in a specific real-world area (first area A10 or second real-world area A21) is acquired by the camera 35 of the user terminal 30, and whether the user can log in is determined based on the account information assigned to the user and the information indicated in the identification code CC.

The following explanation will take as an example a case where the identification code CC is a "two-dimensional code" and the information indicated by the identification code CC is "location information indicating the location of the object 40 to which the identification code CC is attached."

For example, a user attempting to log in inputs an operation (fourth login operation) to start the fourth login process into the user terminal 30. When the fourth login operation is input into the user terminal 30, the following process is performed.

In response to the fourth login operation, the information processing unit 39b of the user terminal 30 activates the camera 35 of the user terminal 30. The information processing unit 39b then instructs the user to use the camera 35 of the user terminal 30 to capture an image of the identification code CC attached to the object 40 placed in a specific real area (the first area A10 or the second real area A21). For example, the information processing unit 39b displays an image on the display 33 of the user terminal 30 instructing the user to use the camera 35 to capture an image of the identification code CC attached to the object 40.

The user photographs an identification code CC attached to an object 40 placed in a specific real area (first area A10 or second real area A21) using the camera 35 of the user terminal 30. This results in an image (image data) containing the identification code CC.

Next, the information processing unit 39b decodes the identification code CC contained in the image obtained by the camera 35 to obtain location information indicating the location of the object 40 to which the identification code CC is attached. The information processing unit 39b then associates the location information obtained by decoding the identification code CC with the account information (account information assigned to the user) stored in the memory unit 38 and transmits the information to the management server 10.

Note that, because this identification code CC is installed in the real world, it is an identification code that can recognize the location information of the installation location. Another object 40 in a different location is assigned a different identification code CC, and different location information (location information indicating the location of another object 40) can be recognized from the different identification code CC.

The management unit 400 of the management server 10 identifies the user to whom the account information transmitted from the user terminal 30 is assigned, and detects the first area information and second real area information (second area information related to the second real area A21) associated with that user from the memory unit 12 of the management server 10. The management unit 400 then obtains the location range of the first area A10 indicated in the first area information and the location range of the second real area A21 indicated in the second real area information.

Next, the management unit 400 determines whether the user's location is included in the specific real area associated with the user based on the location information (location information indicating the location of the object 40) transmitted from the user terminal 30 and the location range of the specific real area (first area A10 and second real area A21) indicated in the specific real area information. Specifically, the management unit 400 determines that the user's location is included in the specific real area if the location of the object indicated in the location information is included in the location range of the specific real area, and otherwise determines that the user's location is not included in the specific real area.

If the user's location is within a specific real-world area, the management unit 400 allows the user to log in. The management unit 400 then notifies the user terminal 30 that the login has been permitted. The management unit 400 also grants a login bonus to the user whose login has been permitted. The management unit 400 then notifies the user that the login bonus has been granted.

On the other hand, if the user's location is not included in the specific real-world area, the management unit 400 denies the user's login. The management unit 400 then notifies the user terminal 30 that the login has been denied.

<Fifth Login Process>
When the fifth login process is performed, the user carries a transmitter (not shown), and a searcher (not shown) is placed in a specific real area (first area A10 or second real area A21). The transmitter stores account information assigned to the user. The searcher communicates with transmitters located within the communication range. The searcher is also capable of communicating with the management server 10. For example, the transmitter is an AirTag (registered trademark), and communication between the transmitter and the searcher is Bluetooth communication. The location of the searcher communicating with the transmitter carried by the user is considered to be the user's location.

In the fifth login process, "account information assigned to the user" is transmitted from a transmitter discovered by a search device placed in a specific real-world area, and a determination is made as to whether the user is permitted to log in based on that account information and "location information indicating the location of the search device."

For example, when a user carrying a transmitter enters the communication range of a search device placed in a specific real-world area, the transmitter and search device become able to communicate, and the following process takes place.

The transmitter transmits the account information (account information assigned to the user) stored in the transmitter to the searcher. The searcher associates the account information transmitted from the transmitter with location information indicating the location of the searcher (the location of the searcher considered to be the user's location) and transmits it to the management server 10.

The management unit 400 of the management server 10 identifies the user to whom the account information transmitted from the search device is assigned, and detects the first area information and second real area information (second area information related to the second real area A21) associated with that user from the memory unit 12 of the management server 10. The management unit 400 then obtains the location range of the first area A10 indicated in the first area information and the location range of the second real area A21 indicated in the second real area information.

Next, the management unit 400 determines whether the user's location is included in the specific real area associated with the user based on the location information transmitted from the search device (location information indicating the location of the search device considered to be the user's location) and the location range of the specific real area (first area A10 and second real area A21) indicated in the specific real area information. Specifically, the management unit 400 determines that the user's location is included in the specific real area if the location of the object indicated in the location information is included in the location range of the specific real area, and otherwise determines that the user's location is not included in the specific real area.

If the user's location is within a specific real-world area, the management unit 400 allows the user to log in. The management unit 400 then notifies the user terminal 30 that the login has been permitted. The management unit 400 also grants a login bonus to the user whose login has been permitted. The management unit 400 then notifies the user that the login bonus has been granted.

On the other hand, if the user's location is not included in a specific real-world area, the management unit 400 terminates the process (processing for the fifth login process).

[First behavior detection process]
Next, a description will be given of the processing (first behavior detection processing) performed by the first behavior detection unit 310. In the first behavior detection processing, a predetermined behavior in the first area A10 (a predetermined behavior in the real world) is detected.

Examples of predetermined actions in the first area A10 include user actions performed in a predetermined sequence (movements of the body, not just fingers), and operation of the user terminal 30 (an example of an information terminal) by the user to make a predetermined electronic payment. In other words, the predetermined actions in the first area A10 include at least one of these listed examples.

In this example, the first behavior detection unit 310 detects a predetermined behavior at a specific location included in the first area A10. At least one of a camera 41, a microphone 42, and a sensor 43 is provided at the specific location included in the first area A10. The camera 41, the microphone 42, and the sensor 43 are examples of an information acquisition unit that acquires information for detecting the user's behavior.

In addition, in this example, the first behavior detection unit 310 performs a first behavior detection process together with the "area terminal 20 that manages the first area A10" and the "user terminal 30 that is permitted to log in to the first area A10." Specifically, when a user is permitted to log in to the first area A10 during the login process, the following process is performed.

The first behavior detection unit 310 of the management server 10 detects, from the storage unit 12 of the management server 10, point information within the first area associated with the user who owns the user terminal 30. The first behavior detection unit 310 then obtains the "location range of the specific point included in the first area A10" and "behavior pattern (a pattern of predetermined behavior to be taken at that specific point)" indicated in the point information within the first area.

The management unit 400 of the management server 10 enables communication between the area terminal 20 that manages the first area A10 and the user terminal 30 that is permitted to log in to the first area A10. This allows the area terminal 20 to monitor the user terminal 30.

Next, the information processing unit 25a of the area terminal 20 monitors the location information of the logged-in user terminal 30, thereby monitoring the location of the user carrying that user terminal 30. When the user arrives within the location range of a specific point included in the first area A10, the first behavior detection unit 310 of the management server 10 determines whether a specific behavior has been performed at that specific point.

Specifically, the information processing unit 25a of the area terminal 20 associates the location information of a specific point included in the first area A10, information obtained by an information acquisition unit (in this example, at least one of the camera 41, microphone 42, and sensor 43) installed at that specific point, and identification information for identifying the user located at that specific point (for example, account information stored in the memory unit 38 of the user terminal 30), and transmits this to the management server 10.

Next, the first behavior detection unit 310 of the management server 10 recognizes the user's behavior at a specific location included in the first area A10 based on the information transmitted from the area terminal 20 (location information, information obtained by the information acquisition unit, and identification information). The first behavior detection unit 310 then compares the recognized user's behavior with a behavior pattern associated with the specific location (a pattern of predetermined behavior to be taken at the specific location), and determines, based on the results of the comparison, whether the predetermined behavior (specifically, user behavior performed in a predetermined procedure) was taken at the specific location.

For example, at a specific point included in the first area A10, the camera 41 is positioned so that it can capture an image of a user located at that specific point. This allows an image (moving image) to be obtained that shows the behavior of the user located at the specific point included in the first area A10. This image (moving image) is an example of information for detecting the user's behavior.

In addition, at a specific point included in the first area A10, the microphone 42 is positioned so that it can collect the voice of the user located at that specific point. This allows audio including the voice of the user located at the specific point included in the first area A10 to be obtained. This audio is an example of information for detecting the user's behavior (especially behavior involving vocalization).

Furthermore, at specific points included in the first area A10, sensors 43 are positioned so as to be able to acquire various information (such as vibrations and user movement) derived from the behavior of users located at those specific points. This information is an example of information for detecting user behavior (particularly behavior involving vibrations and user movement).

The first behavior detection unit 310 recognizes the behavior of a user located at a specific location included in the first area A10 by analyzing at least one of the images obtained by the camera 41, the audio obtained by the microphone 42, and the information obtained by the sensor 43. Then, if the similarity between the recognized user behavior and the behavior pattern associated with that specific location exceeds a threshold, the first behavior detection unit 310 determines that a specific behavior has been performed at that specific location.

The information processing unit 25a of the area terminal 20 also monitors operations (user operations) input to a user terminal 30 located within the location range of a specific point included in the first area A10. When an operation to make a specified electronic payment is input to the user terminal 30, the information processing unit 25a associates the location information of the specific point included in the first area A10, operation information indicating that an operation to make a specified electronic payment has been input to the user terminal 30, and identification information for identifying the user located at the specific point, and transmits this information to the management server 10.

When the first behavior detection unit 310 of the management server 10 receives information (location information, operation information, and identification information) transmitted from the area terminal 20, it determines that a predetermined behavior (specifically, operation of the information terminal by the user for a predetermined electronic payment) has been performed at a specific location included in the first area A10.

In this way, the first behavior detection unit 310 detects that a predetermined behavior has been taken in the first area A10. The first behavior detection unit 310 also detects the details of the predetermined behavior taken in the first area A10 (what kind of predetermined behavior was taken).

[Specific examples of predetermined actions in the first area]
Next, predetermined actions in the first area A10 will be described using an example in which the first area A10 is a "shrine area." Shrine areas include torii gates, chozuya (purification fountains), and shrine buildings. Locations where torii gates, chozuya (purification fountains), and shrine buildings are located are examples of specific locations included in the first area A10. The user will take the following actions in the shrine area, which is the first area A10.

First, the user arrives at the shrine area, which is the first area A10. When the user arrives at the first area A10, a login process (for example, one of the first to fourth login processes) is performed.

Next, the user passes through the torii gate in the shrine area, which is the first area A10, stops at the temizuya (purification fountain), and then arrives at the main shrine building. At the torii gate, temizuya, and main shrine building, the user takes the following actions:

As shown in Figure 4, at the point where the torii gate is located, the user bows in front of the torii gate and then passes through the gate. The "predetermined behavior in the first area A10" detected at the point where the torii gate is located is the behavior of the user bowing in front of the torii gate and the behavior of the user passing through the torii gate.

At a location where a chozuya is located, the user performs chozu (the action of purifying the hands with water scooped up with a ladle) in a predetermined procedure. The "predetermined action in the first area A10" detected at a location where a chozuya is located is the user performing chozu in a predetermined procedure.

As shown in FIG. 5, at the location where the shrine is located, the user makes an offering and bows twice, claps twice, and bows once. The offering may be made by throwing coins into an offering box located in front of the shrine, or by electronic payment in front of the shrine. In other words, the user takes the action (behavior) of throwing coins into an offering box in front of the shrine, or operates the user terminal 30 to make an electronic payment for the offering.

The "predetermined actions in the first area A10" detected at the location where the shrine is located include the actions (behavior) of a user throwing coins into the offering box located in front of the shrine, the actions (behavior) of a user inputting an operation into the user terminal 30 to make an electronic payment for the offering in front of the shrine, and the actions (behavior) of a user bowing twice, clapping twice, and bowing once in front of the shrine.

As described above, making offerings electronically offers benefits to users, such as not having to carry coins for offerings, keeping their hands clean, and being able to determine the amount of offerings in one-yen increments. Also, for shrine areas, there are benefits such as easier money management as there is no need to manage offerings (for example, keeping an account), and no need to exchange coins for offerings.

Furthermore, by making the offerings electronically as described above, neither shrine staff nor worshippers have to handle coins or paper money, which is also an effective measure against infectious diseases. Furthermore, since there is no need to closely monitor the offering box (for example, by deploying surveillance cameras or security guards) to prevent theft of cash placed in the offering box, the burden on the shrine area (the burden required to monitor the offering box) can be reduced.

[Second behavior detection process]
Next, the processing by the second behavior detection unit 320 (second behavior detection processing) will be described. In the second behavior detection processing, a predetermined behavior in the second area A20 is detected. The second behavior detection processing includes processing by the real behavior detection unit 321 (real behavior detection processing) and processing by the virtual behavior detection unit 322 (virtual behavior detection processing).

[Real Action Detection Processing]
Next, a description will be given of the processing (real-world behavior detection processing) performed by the real-world behavior detection unit 321. In the real-world behavior detection processing, a predetermined behavior in the second real area A21 (a predetermined behavior in the real world) is detected.

The predetermined behavior in the second reality area A21 is a behavior related to the predetermined behavior in the first area A10. Specifically, examples of the predetermined behavior in the second reality area A21 include user behavior performed in a predetermined procedure (behavior of moving not only the fingers but also the body), and operation of the user terminal 30 (an example of an information terminal) by the user to make a predetermined electronic payment. In other words, the predetermined behavior in the second reality area A21 includes at least one of these listed examples.

In this example, the real behavior detection unit 321 detects predetermined behavior at a specific location included in the second real area A21. Also in this example, the real behavior detection unit 321 performs real behavior detection processing together with the user terminal 30 that is permitted to log in to the second real area A21. Specifically, when login to the second real area A21 is permitted, the following processing is performed.

The real-life behavior detection unit 321 of the management server 10 detects, from the storage unit 12 of the management server 10, point information within the second real-life area associated with the user who owns the user terminal 30. The real-life behavior detection unit 321 then obtains the "location range of the specific point included in the second real-life area A21" and "behavior pattern (a pattern of predetermined behavior to be taken at that specific point)" indicated in the point information within the second real-life area.

The information processing unit 39b of the user terminal 30 monitors the location of the user carrying the user terminal 30 by monitoring the location information (location information indicating the location of the user terminal 30) obtained by the position sensor 371 of the user terminal 30. When the user arrives within the location range of a specific point included in the second real area A21, the real-world behavior detection unit 321 of the management server 10 determines whether a specific behavior has been performed at that specific point.

Specifically, the information processing unit 39b of the user terminal 30 associates the location information of the user terminal 30 located within the location range of a specific point included in the second real area A21, information obtained by an information acquisition unit (in this example, at least one of the camera 35, microphone 36, and behavior sensor 372) provided in the user terminal 30, and identification information for identifying the user located at that specific point (for example, account information stored in the memory unit 38 of the user terminal 30), and transmits this to the management server 10.

The real-world behavior detection unit 321 of the management server 10 recognizes the user's behavior at a specific location included in the second real-world area A21 based on information sent from the user terminal 30 (location information, information obtained by the information acquisition unit, and identification information). The real-world behavior detection unit 321 then compares the recognized user's behavior with a behavior pattern associated with the specific location (a pattern of predetermined behavior to be taken at the specific location), and determines, based on the results of the comparison, whether the predetermined behavior (specifically, the user's behavior performed in a predetermined procedure) was taken at the specific location.

For example, at a specific location included in the second real area A21, the user terminal 30 is fixed with the camera 35 activated so that the camera 35 of the user terminal 30 can capture an image of the user located at that specific location. This results in an image (moving image) showing the user's behavior located at the specific location included in the second real area A21. This image (moving image) is an example of information for detecting the user's behavior.

Furthermore, at a specific location included in the second real area A21, the user terminal 30 is fixed (or carried by the user) with the microphone 36 activated so that the voice of the user located at that specific location can be collected by the microphone 36 of the user terminal 30. This allows audio including the voice of the user located at the specific location included in the second real area A21 to be obtained. This audio is an example of information for detecting the user's behavior (particularly behavior involving vocalization).

Furthermore, the user carries the user terminal 30 with the behavior sensor 372 activated so that the behavior sensor 372 can acquire information for detecting the behavior of the user located at a specific location included in the second real area A21. For example, the user terminal 30 is fixed to the user's arm. The information acquired by the behavior sensor 372 is an example of information for detecting the user's behavior (particularly behavior involving vibrations or user movement).

The real behavior detection unit 321 recognizes the behavior of a user located at a specific location included in the second real area A21 by analyzing at least one of the images obtained by the camera 35, the audio obtained by the microphone 36, and the information obtained by the behavior sensor 372. Then, if the similarity between the recognized user behavior and the behavior pattern associated with that specific location exceeds a threshold, the real behavior detection unit 321 determines that a specific behavior has been performed at that specific location.

The information processing unit 39b of the user terminal 30 also monitors operations (user operations) input to the operation unit 32 of the user terminal 30 located within the location range of a specific point included in the second real area A21. When an operation to make a specified electronic payment is input to the operation unit 32, the information processing unit 39b associates the location information of the specific point included in the second real area A21, operation information indicating that an operation to make a specified electronic payment has been input to the user terminal 30, and identification information for identifying the user located at the specific point, and transmits this information to the management server 10.

When the management server 10's real-world behavior detection unit 321 receives information (location information, operation information, and identification information) sent from the user terminal 30, it determines that a predetermined behavior (specifically, operation of the information terminal by the user for a predetermined electronic payment) has been performed at a specific location included in the second real-world area A21.

In this way, the real behavior detection unit 321 detects that a predetermined behavior has been performed in the second real area A21. The real behavior detection unit 321 also detects the details of the predetermined behavior performed in the second real area A21 (what kind of predetermined behavior was performed).

[Specific examples of predetermined actions in the second area (real area)]
Next, a predetermined action in the second real area A21 will be described using an example in which the second real area A21 is a "park area." The park area includes an entrance gate, a hand washing area, a large tree, and the like. The location where the entrance gate, hand washing area, large tree, and the like are located is an example of a specific location included in the second real area A21.

The park area is an example of a real area that can be likened to a shrine area. The entrance/exit gate is an example of an object that can be likened to a torii gate, the hand washing area is an example of an object that can be likened to a temizuya, and the large tree is an example of an object that can be likened to a shrine building. For example, if the shrine area set in the first area A10 is the "head shrine," then the park area set in the second real area A21 is a "branch shrine."

The user takes the following actions in the park area, which is the second real-life area A21.

First, the user arrives at the park area, which is the second real-life area A21. When the user arrives at the second real-life area A21, a login process (e.g., one of the first to fourth login processes) is performed.

Next, the user passes through the entrance gate in the park area, which is the second real-life area A21, stops at the washroom, and then arrives at the large tree. At the entrance gate, washroom, and large tree, the user takes the following actions:

At the location where the entrance/exit gate is located, the user bows in front of the gate and then passes through the gate. The "predetermined actions in the second real area A21" detected at the location where the gate is located are the user's action (behavior) of bowing in front of the gate and the user's action (behavior) of passing through the gate.

At a location where a hand-washing station is located, the user washes their hands, etc., following a predetermined procedure. The "predetermined action in the second reality area A21" detected at a location where a hand-washing station is located is the user's action (behavior) of washing their hands, etc., following a predetermined procedure.

As shown in Figure 6, at the location where the large tree is located, the user makes an offering and bows twice, claps twice, and bows once. The offering is made electronically in front of the tree. In other words, the user operates the user terminal 30 in front of the tree to make an electronic payment for the offering.

The "predetermined actions in the second real area A21" detected at the location where the large tree is placed are the user inputting an operation into the user terminal 30 to make an electronic payment for offering money in front of the large tree, and the user bowing twice, clapping twice, and bowing once in front of the large tree (behavior).

[Virtual behavior detection processing]
Next, a description will be given of the processing (imaginary behavior detection processing) performed by the imaginary behavior detection unit 322. In the imaginary behavior detection processing, a predetermined behavior in the second virtual area A22 (a predetermined behavior in the virtual space) is detected.

The predetermined action in the second virtual area A22 is an action related to the predetermined action in the first area A10. Specifically, examples of the predetermined action performed in the second virtual area A22 include a movement performed in a predetermined sequence by an object operated by a user in the virtual space, a predetermined electronic payment performed in the virtual space in response to a user's operation, and the arrival of the user or object's position in the virtual space at the second virtual area A22. In other words, the predetermined action performed in the second virtual area A22 includes at least one of these listed examples.

In this example, the virtual behavior detection unit 322 detects predetermined behavior at a specific location included in the second virtual area A22. Specifically, the following processing is performed.

First, the virtual behavior detection unit 322 identifies the user who operates the object placed in the virtual space. For example, when an object that operates in response to a user's operation is placed in the virtual space (participates in the virtual space), the virtual behavior detection unit 322 acquires account information (account information associated with the user) stored in the memory unit 38 of the user terminal 30 operated by that user, and identifies the "user who operates the object placed in the virtual space" based on the account information.

Next, the virtual behavior detection unit 322 detects the second virtual area location information associated with the user from the storage unit 12. The virtual behavior detection unit 322 then obtains the "location range of the specific location included in the second virtual area A22" and "behavior pattern (a pattern of predetermined behavior to be taken at that specific location)" indicated in the second virtual area location information.

Next, the virtual behavior detection unit 322 monitors the position of the object in the virtual space. When the object arrives within the positional range of the second virtual area A22, the virtual behavior detection unit 322 determines that a predetermined behavior has been performed in the second virtual area A22 (the behavior of arriving at the second virtual area A22).

Next, when the object arrives within the positional range of a specific point included in the second virtual area A22, the virtual behavior detection unit 322 determines whether a predetermined behavior has been performed at that specific point.

Specifically, the virtual behavior detection unit 322 monitors the behavior (movement) of an object located at a specific point included in the second virtual area A22, compares the object's behavior with a behavior pattern associated with the specific point (a pattern of predetermined behavior to be taken at the specific point), and determines whether the predetermined behavior (specifically, the object's movement performed in a predetermined sequence) has been taken at the specific point based on the results of the comparison. For example, the virtual behavior detection unit 322 determines that the predetermined behavior has been taken at the specific point if the similarity between the object's behavior and the behavior pattern associated with the specific point exceeds a threshold.

In addition, the virtual action detection unit 322 monitors operations (user operations) input to the user terminal 30 to move objects located at specific points within the second virtual area A22, and when an operation to make a specific electronic payment is input to the user terminal 30, it determines that a specific action (specifically, a specific electronic payment made within the virtual space in response to the user's operation) has been taken at that specific point.

Next, the virtual behavior detection unit 322 detects that a predetermined behavior has been taken in the second virtual area A22 based on the results of the above determination. Furthermore, the virtual behavior detection unit 322 detects details of the predetermined behavior in the second virtual area A22 (what predetermined behavior has been taken) based on the results of the above determination.

[Specific examples of predetermined actions in the second area (virtual area)]
Next, a predetermined action in the second virtual area A22 will be described using an example in which the second virtual area A22 is a "virtual shrine area that imitates a shrine area in the real world." Objects that imitate a torii gate, a chozuya (purification pavilion), a shrine building, etc. are placed in the virtual shrine area. Note that, below, an object that imitates a torii gate will be referred to simply as a "torii gate." The same applies to a chozuya (purification pavilion) and a shrine building.

The virtual shrine area is an example of a virtual area that can be likened to a shrine area. The objects that resemble a torii gate, a chozuya (purification pavilion), and a shrine building are examples of objects that can be likened to a torii gate, a chozuya (purification pavilion), and a shrine building, respectively. For example, if the shrine area set in the first area A10 is the "main shrine," then the virtual shrine area set in the second virtual area A22 is a "branch shrine."

The following description will use an "avatar" as an example of an object that moves within the virtual space in response to user operations. The avatar behaves as follows in the second virtual area A22, which is a virtual shrine area:

First, the avatar arrives at the virtual shrine area, which is the second virtual area A22. Here, the action of the avatar's position in the virtual space arriving at the virtual shrine area (one of the predetermined actions in the second virtual area A22) is detected.

Next, in the virtual shrine area, which is the second virtual area A22, the avatar passes through the torii gate, stops at the temizuya (purification fountain), and then arrives at the main shrine building. At the torii gate, temizuya, and main shrine building, the avatar performs the following actions:

At the point where the torii gate is located, the avatar bows in front of the gate and then passes through the gate. The "predetermined actions in the second virtual area A22" detected at the point where the torii gate is located are the action (behavior) of the avatar bowing in front of the torii gate and the action (behavior) of the avatar passing through the torii gate.

At the location where the chozuya is located, the avatar performs chozu (purifying the hands with water scooped up with a ladle) in a predetermined procedure. The "predetermined behavior in the second virtual area A22" detected at the location where the chozuya is located is the behavior of the avatar performing chozu in a predetermined procedure.

As shown in Figure 7, at the location where the shrine is located, the avatar makes an offering and bows twice, claps twice, and bows once. The offering may be made by throwing coins into a donation box located in front of the shrine, or by electronic payment in front of the shrine. In other words, the avatar's operation to perform the action (movement) of throwing coins into the donation box in front of the shrine, or the operation to make an electronic payment for the offering, is input into the user terminal 30.

The "predetermined actions in the second virtual area A22" detected at the location where the shrine is located are the actions (movements) of the avatar throwing coins into the offering box located in front of the shrine, the action of the user inputting an operation into the user terminal 30 to make an electronic payment for the offering in front of the shrine, and the actions (movements) of the avatar bowing twice, clapping twice, and bowing once in front of the shrine.

[Reward Granting Process]
Next, the reward granting process performed by the management unit 400 will be described.

When the first behavior detection unit 310 detects "a predetermined behavior taken by the user in the first area A10," the management unit 400 grants a reward to the user. The management unit 400 then notifies the user that a reward has been granted. Specifically, the management unit 400 displays an image indicating that a reward has been granted on the display 33 of the user terminal 30.

Furthermore, when the second behavior detection unit 320 detects "a predetermined behavior taken by the user in the second area A20," the management unit 400 grants a reward to the user. The management unit 400 then notifies the user that a reward has been granted.

Specifically, when the real behavior detection unit 321 of the second behavior detection unit 320 detects a "predetermined real-world behavior taken in the second real area A21 (predetermined behavior taken by the user in the real world)," the management unit 400 grants a reward to the user who is the subject of the predetermined behavior. Furthermore, when the virtual behavior detection unit 322 of the second behavior detection unit 320 detects a "predetermined virtual-world behavior taken in the second virtual area A22 (predetermined behavior taken in the virtual space in response to the user's operation)," the management unit 400 grants a reward to the user who is the subject of the predetermined behavior.

Specifically, the management unit 400 registers the reward granted to the user in the reward information (reward information associated with that user) stored in the storage unit 12 of the management server 10. This means that the reward has been granted to the user.

Rewards include perks that can be used in the real world, perks that can be used in virtual space, etc. Perks that can be used in virtual space include perks that can be used in a specific game.

Examples of benefits available in the real world include points, discount coupons (electronic coupons), virtual currency, digital content, and rights. Points can be used in addition to (or instead of) cash when purchasing goods and other items. Virtual currency can be used for electronic payments, etc. Virtual currency is a form of financial value (cryptocurrency) that can be exchanged over the Internet and is managed using blockchain technology. Digital content is digital data that represents works such as images and music. Digital content may also be an NFT (Non-Fungible Token). Rights are the right to enjoy certain benefits.

Points and discount coupons that can be used in the real world can be used in stores that exist in the real world. Virtual currency that can be used in the real world can be used for electronic payments in stores that exist in the real world. Digital content that can be used in the real world is delivered to a user terminal 30 used by a user and viewed using the user terminal 30. Rights that can be used in the real world are rights that allow certain benefits to be enjoyed in the real world.

For example, perks available in the real world include perks associated with shrine areas. Examples of perks associated with shrine areas include points and discount coupons that can be used within and near shrine areas, and digital content and rights associated with shrine areas. Examples of digital content associated with shrine areas include digital data (image data) showing the gods enshrined at the shrine, goshuin (temple seals), and omamori (charms). Examples of rights associated with shrine areas include the right to display one's name on specific objects placed within the shrine area (donation boards, stone fences, lanterns, etc.), and the right to receive prayers. Note that perks may be set for each shrine area so that the perks (perks granted in response to specific actions in that shrine area) differ for each shrine area.

Examples of benefits that can be used within the virtual space include points, discount coupons (virtual media used as discount coupons), virtual currency, and land within the virtual space. Points and discount coupons that can be used within the virtual space can be used in stores that exist within the virtual space. Virtual currency that can be used within the virtual space can be used for electronic payments at stores that exist within the virtual space.

Examples of perks available in a specific game include benefits enjoyed in the game, game media used in the game, lottery tickets used to draw for game media (so-called gacha tickets), and rights related to the game.

Examples of benefits enjoyed within a game include the effect of improving game parameters (e.g., the parameters of a character owned by the user) to give an advantage in the game, the effect of raising a character's level, the effect of granting a character skills, the effect of restoring a character's stamina, and the effect of reviving a character. Examples of game media include characters, items, and in-game currency. In-game currency is currency used only within the game and can be granted for free or purchased for a fee. An example of a game-related right is the right to convert game media (such as characters or items) owned by the user into an NFT (Non-Fungible Token).

In this example, the reward granted to the user in response to a predetermined action taken in the real world in the second real area A21 includes a benefit to be enjoyed in the virtual space. An example of a benefit to be enjoyed in the virtual space is a special perk that can be used in the virtual space.

Furthermore, the rewards granted to the user in response to a predetermined action taken in the virtual space in the second virtual area A22 include benefits that can be enjoyed in the real world. Examples of benefits that can be enjoyed in the real world include perks that can be used in the real world.

Furthermore, at least one of the rewards granted to users in response to predetermined actions in the first area A10 and the rewards granted to users in response to predetermined actions in the second area A20 includes a benefit that can be used in the first area A10 or the second area A20.

In other words, the reward granted to the user in response to a predetermined action in the first area A10 includes at least one of the perks available in the first area A10 and the perks available in the second area A20. The reward granted to the user in response to a predetermined action in the second area A20 includes at least one of the perks available in the first area A10 and the perks available in the second area A20.

Examples of perks available in the first area A10 include points and discount tickets (electronic coupons) available in the first area A10. Note that perks available in the first area A10 may be perks available only in the first area A10.

Examples of perks available in the second area A20 include points and discount coupons available in the second area A20. Note that perks available in the second area A20 may be perks available only in the second area A20.

Specifically, the perks available in the second area A20 are broadly divided into perks available in the second real area A21 and perks available in the second virtual area A22. Examples of perks available in the second real area A21 include points and discount coupons (electronic coupons) available in the second real area A21 (the real world). Examples of perks available in the second virtual area A22 include points and discount coupons (virtual media used as discount coupons) available in the second virtual area A22 (in the virtual space).

Note that the perks available in the first area A10 may be perks available in the first region (e.g., the entire town) that includes the first area A10. The first region includes one or more areas in addition to the first area A10. Perks available in the first region can be used not only in the first area A10, but also in "another area other than the first area A10" included in the first region. For example, a perk available in the first region is a perk such as a regional reconstruction ticket. The same applies to perks available in the second area A20.

[Summary of Embodiment 1]
To summarize the above, the management system 1 of embodiment 1 includes a first area setting unit 210, a second area setting unit 220, a first behavior detection unit 310, a second behavior detection unit 320, and a management unit 400. The first area setting unit 210 allows a user to select an arbitrary area from among real areas existing in the real world, and sets the area selected by the user as the first area A10. The second area setting unit 220 allows a user to select an area to be associated with the first area A10 from among real areas existing in the real world that are different from the first area A10 or from among virtual areas existing in a virtual space, and sets the area selected by the user as the second area A20. The first behavior detection unit 310 detects a predetermined behavior taken by the user in the first area A10. The second behavior detection unit 320 detects a predetermined behavior taken by the user in the second area A20. The management unit 400 grants a reward to the user in accordance with at least one of a predetermined behavior in the first area A10 detected by the first behavior detection unit 310 and a predetermined behavior in the second area A20 detected by the second behavior detection unit 320. The second behavior detection unit 320 includes at least one of a real behavior detection unit 321 that detects a predetermined behavior in the real world taken in the second area A20, which is a real area, and a virtual behavior detection unit 322 that detects a predetermined behavior in a virtual space taken in the second area A20, which is a virtual area.

The management method of embodiment 1 includes a first area setting step, a second area setting step, a first behavior detection step, a second behavior detection step, and a reward granting step. The first area setting step allows the user to select an area from among real areas existing in the real world, and sets the area selected by the user as the first area A10. The second area setting step allows the user to select an area to be associated with the first area A10 from among real areas existing in the real world that are different from the first area A10 or from among virtual areas existing in the virtual space, and sets the area selected by the user as the second area A20. The first behavior detection step detects a predetermined behavior taken by the user in the first area A10. The second behavior detection step detects a predetermined behavior taken by the user in the second area A20. The reward granting step grants a reward to the user in accordance with at least one of the predetermined behavior in the first area A10 detected in the first behavior detection step and the predetermined behavior in the second area A20 detected in the second behavior detection step. The second behavior detection step includes at least one of a real behavior detection step that detects a predetermined behavior in the real world taken in the second area A20, which is a real area, and a virtual behavior detection step that detects a predetermined behavior in a virtual space taken in the second area A20, which is a virtual area.

The management program of embodiment 1 causes a computer (control unit 13) to execute the above management method.

[Effects of the First Embodiment]
As described above, in the first embodiment, when a user performs a predetermined action in the first area A10, a reward can be given to the user, thereby increasing the motivation to visit the first area A10 (the desire to visit the first area A10).

Furthermore, in embodiment 1, if a user performs a predetermined action in the second area A20, a reward can be given to the user. This can increase the user's motivation to visit the second area A20 (the desire to visit the second area A20).

If, for some reason, the user is unable to visit the first area A10, the user will not be able to take the specified action in the first area A10, and will therefore not be able to obtain the reward associated with that action. As a result, the user may become less motivated to visit the first area A10.

In embodiment 1, by visiting the second area A20 associated with the first area A10, it is possible to simulate (achieve) visiting the first area A10. Therefore, by increasing the user's motivation to visit the second area A20, it is possible to suppress a decrease in the user's motivation to visit the first area A10 even if the user is unable to visit the first area A10.

In addition, even if restrictions on going out or traveling long distances are imposed to prevent the spread of infectious diseases, making it difficult to actually go to the first area A10, the existence of a second area A20 separate from the first area A10 where predetermined actions can be taken (for example, visiting a shrine) can alleviate user dissatisfaction (dissatisfaction caused by not being able to take predetermined actions such as visiting a shrine due to restrictions on going out or traveling long distances). User satisfaction can be improved by providing an alternative action of taking predetermined actions in the second area A20.

Furthermore, in embodiment 1, the predetermined action in the real world taken in the second real area A21 (the second real area A20) is an action related to the predetermined action in the first area A10.

In embodiment 1, a predetermined behavior in the first area A10 can be simulated (achieved) in the second real area A21. This can reduce a decline in motivation to visit the first area A10.

Furthermore, in embodiment 1, the reward given to the user in response to a predetermined action taken in the real world in the second real area A21 (the second real area A20) includes a benefit to be enjoyed in the virtual space.

In embodiment 1, users can be given rewards that include benefits that can be enjoyed within the virtual space, thereby increasing users' interest in the virtual space.

Furthermore, in embodiment 1, the reward given to the user in response to a predetermined action taken in the virtual space in the second virtual area A22 (the second area A20, which is a virtual area) includes a benefit to be enjoyed in the real world.

In embodiment 1, by providing users with rewards that include benefits that can be enjoyed in the real world, users' interest in the real world can be increased.

Furthermore, in embodiment 1, at least one of the rewards granted to a user in response to a predetermined action in the first area A10 and the rewards granted to a user in response to a predetermined action in the second area A20 includes a benefit that can be used in the first area A10 or the second area A20.

In embodiment 1, by providing users with rewards including benefits that can be used in the first area A10, it is possible to increase users' interest in the first area A10. This can increase users' motivation to visit the first area A10.

Similarly, by offering users rewards including special benefits that can be used in the second area A20, users' interest in the second area A20 can be increased. This can increase users' motivation to visit the second area A20.

Furthermore, in embodiment 1, some or all of the login processing that can be performed in the second real area A21 (the second real area A20) is the same as some or all of the login processing that can be performed in the first area A10.

In embodiment 1, the burden (annoyance) on the user regarding the login process can be reduced compared to when the login process that can be performed in the second real area A21 is completely different from the login process that can be performed in the first area A10.

In the above explanation, we have given an example in which the "predetermined action in the first area A10" taken by the user is detected based on information obtained by an "information acquisition unit (such as a camera 41) connected to an area terminal 20 installed in the first area A10," but this is not limited to this.

For example, the first behavior detection unit 310 may detect a predetermined behavior taken by a user in the first area A10 based on information obtained by an information acquisition unit (such as a camera 35) included in a user terminal 30 located in the first area A10. The information acquisition unit that acquires information for detecting the user's behavior in the first area A10 may be an information acquisition unit connected to an area terminal 20 provided in the first area A10, or may be an information acquisition unit included in a user terminal 30 located in the first area A10.

Furthermore, the above explanation has given an example in which the "predetermined action in the second real area A21" taken by the user is detected based on information obtained by an "information acquisition unit (such as a camera 35) included in a user terminal 30 located in the second real area A21," but this is not limited to this.

For example, an area terminal 20 and an information acquisition unit (such as a camera 41) connected to the area terminal 20 may be provided in the second real area A21. The real behavior detection unit 321 of the second behavior detection unit 320 may detect a predetermined behavior taken by the user in the second real area A21 based on information obtained by an information acquisition unit connected to the area terminal 20 provided in the second real area A21. The information acquisition unit that acquires information to detect the user's behavior in the second real area A21 may be an information acquisition unit included in the user terminal 30 located in the second real area A21, or may be an information acquisition unit connected to the area terminal 20 provided in the second real area A21.

(Modification of the first embodiment)
The management system 1 of the first modification of the first embodiment differs from the management system 1 of the first embodiment in the processing performed by the management system 1. The other configurations and processing of the management system 1 of the first modification of the first embodiment are similar to those of the management system 1 of the first embodiment.

The processing (management processing) performed by the management system 1 of Variation 1 of Embodiment 1 includes, in addition to the processing performed by the management system 1 of Embodiment 1, a first action promotion processing, a first presentation processing, a second action promotion processing, and a second presentation processing.

[First action promotion process]
The first action prompting process is performed by the management unit 400. For example, the management unit 400 performs the first action prompting process when the user's position in the real world is included in the first area A10 (the first area A10 associated with the user).

In the first behavior promotion process, the management unit 400 prompts the user to take a predetermined behavior in the first area A10. Specifically, the management unit 400 causes an image and sound prompting the user to take a predetermined behavior in the first area A10 to be output to a display and speaker that output the image and sound to the user. Examples of such a display and speaker include the display 45 and speaker 46 connected to the area terminal 20, and the display 33 and speaker 34 of the user terminal 30.

In this example, the management unit 400 prompts the user to take a predetermined action at a specific point included in the first area A10. For example, if the user's position in the real world is included in a specific point included in the first area A10, the management unit 400 prompts the user to take a predetermined action at that specific point.

[Specific example of first action promotion process]
For example, if a specific point included in the first area A10 is a "shrine building included in the shrine area," the management unit 400 displays an offering promotion image on a display 45 installed at the point where the shrine building is located, encouraging people to take a specified action to offer offerings.

The management unit 400 may also display an offering amount image showing information about the amount of offering money on a display 45 installed at the location where the shrine is located, along with the offering promotion image (or after the offering promotion image has been displayed). Examples of information about the amount of offering money include auspicious amounts, unlucky amounts, etc.

The management unit 400 may also display an image of an offering amount designation screen for designating the amount of offerings on the display 33 of the user terminal 30. Furthermore, when an operation for designating the amount of offerings (amount designation operation) and an operation for instructing to make an offering (offering instruction operation) are input into the user terminal 30, the management unit 400 controls the electronic payment for the offering in response to the offering instruction operation so that the amount designated by the amount designation operation is offered. An auspicious amount may be pre-displayed (default display) on the offering amount designation screen. In this case, the pre-displayed amount may be designable on the offering amount designation screen.

[First performance process]
The first effect processing is performed by the management unit 400. For example, when the first behavior detection unit 310 detects a "predetermined behavior in the first area A10," the management unit 400 performs the first effect processing.

In the first effect processing, the management unit 400 outputs effect images and effect sounds corresponding to the "predetermined behavior in the first area A10" detected by the first behavior detection unit 310 to a display and speaker that output images and sounds to the user. Examples of such displays and speakers include the display 45 and speaker 46 connected to the area terminal 20, and the display 33 and speaker 34 of the user terminal 30. Examples of effect images and effect sounds include images and sounds that express gratitude for the predetermined behavior.

In this example, when the first behavior detection unit 310 detects "a predetermined behavior at a specific location included in the first area A10," the management unit 400 causes the display and speaker to output a visual effect and audio effect corresponding to the predetermined behavior at that specific location.

[Specific Example of First Rendering Process]
For example, if the specific point included in the first area A10 is a "shrine building included in the shrine area," when the first behavior detection unit 310 detects a "predetermined behavior related to offering money (the behavior of throwing in coins or electronic payment)," as shown in Fig. 5, the management unit 400 causes a display 45 and a speaker 46 provided at the point where the shrine building is located to output an effect image and effect sound corresponding to the offering. In the example of Fig. 5, the effect image and effect sound are an image and sound showing a scene in which the god enshrined in the shrine gives thanks for the offering.

It is also possible to prepare multiple effect images (image data) and effect sounds (audio data) according to the amount of offerings. In this case, the management unit 400 may randomly select "the effect image and effect sound to be output from the display 45 and speaker 46" from among the multiple effect images and effect sounds.

[Second Action Promotion Processing]
The second action prompting process is performed by the management unit 400. For example, the management unit 400 performs the second action prompting process when the user's position in the real world or virtual space is included in the second area A20 (the second area A20 associated with the user).

In the second action promotion process, the management unit 400 prompts the user to take a predetermined action in the second area A20. Specifically, the management unit 400 outputs images and audio prompting the user to take a predetermined action in the second area A20 to a display and speaker that output images and audio to the user. Examples of such a display and speaker include the display 33 and speaker 34 of the user terminal 30.

Note that the second behavior promotion process includes at least one of a real behavior promotion process and a virtual behavior promotion process (in this example, both).

[Real Behavior Promotion Processing]
In the real-world behavior promotion process, management unit 400 prompts the user to take a predetermined behavior in second real area A21. For example, management unit 400 performs the real-world behavior promotion process when the user's location in the real world is included in second real area A21 (second real area A21 associated with the user). Note that in this example, management unit 400 prompts the user to take a predetermined behavior at a specific location included in second real area A21.

[Virtual behavior promotion processing]
In the virtual behavior prompting process, the management unit 400 prompts the user to take a predetermined behavior in the second virtual area A22. For example, the management unit 400 performs the virtual behavior prompting process when the user's position in the virtual space is included in the second virtual area A22 (the second virtual area A22 associated with the user). In this example, the management unit 400 prompts the user to take a predetermined behavior at a specific point included in the second virtual area A22.

[Second performance process]
The second performance processing is performed by the management unit 400. For example, when the first behavior detection unit 310 detects a "predetermined behavior in the second area A20," the management unit 400 performs the second performance processing.

In the second effect processing, the management unit 400 outputs effect images and effect sounds corresponding to the "predetermined behavior in the second area A20" detected by the second behavior detection unit 320 to a display and speaker that output images and sounds to the user. Examples of such a display and speaker include the display 33 and speaker 34 of the user terminal 30.

Note that the second presentation process includes at least one of real presentation process and virtual presentation process (in this example, both).

[Reality rendering processing]
In the reality representation processing, the management unit 400 causes the display and the speaker to output a representation image and a representation sound corresponding to the "predetermined behavior in the second reality area A21" detected by the real behavior detection unit 321. In this example, the management unit 400 causes the display and the speaker to output a representation image and a representation sound corresponding to the "predetermined behavior at a specific point included in the second reality area A21" detected by the real behavior detection unit 321.

[Virtual performance processing]
In the virtual effect processing, the management unit 400 causes the display and the speaker to output effect images and effect sounds corresponding to the "predetermined behavior in the second virtual area A22" detected by the virtual behavior detection unit 322. In this example, the management unit 400 causes the display and the speaker to output effect images and effect sounds corresponding to the "predetermined behavior at a specific point included in the second virtual area A22" detected by the virtual behavior detection unit 322.

(Embodiment 2)
8 illustrates an example of the configuration of the management system 1 of embodiment 2. The management system 1 of embodiment 2 includes a game device 50 in addition to the configuration of the management system 1 of embodiment 1. Furthermore, the management system 1 of embodiment 2 differs from the management system 1 of embodiment 1 in the software configuration of the control unit 13 of the management server 10. The other configurations of the management system 1 of embodiment 2 are similar to the configurations of the management system 1 of embodiment 1.

[Game device]
The game device 50 is operated by a user to execute a game, and is an example of an information terminal used by a user.

Examples of game devices 50 include home game consoles such as PlayStation (registered trademark), XBox (registered trademark), and Nintendo Switch (registered trademark), portable game consoles such as PlayStation Vita (registered trademark), and personal computers. In the case of cloud-based games, the game device 50 is, for example, a device such as a game server. In this case, the game screen is displayed on a display connected via the communication network 5.

In the following, we will use an example in which the game device 50 is a home game console. A display 61, a speaker 62, and a controller 63 (operation unit) are connected to the game device 50.

The management server 10 and game devices 50 communicate via a communications network 5. For example, the management server 10 transmits a game program and game data for executing a game. The game devices 50 receive (download) and install the game program and game data from the management server 10 via the communications network 5. The game then progresses as the management server 10 and game devices 50 operate. The progress of the game is controlled by the management server 10.

[Hardware configuration of game device]
9, game device 50 has a network interface 51, a graphics processing unit 52, an audio processing unit 53, an operation processing unit 54, a storage unit 55, and a control unit 56. Network interface 51, graphics processing unit 52, audio processing unit 53, operation processing unit 54, and storage unit 55 are electrically connected to control unit 56 via a bus.

The network interface 51 is communicatively connected to the communication network 5 to send and receive various information and data to and from other information terminals (such as the management server 10).

A display 61 is connected to the graphics processing unit 52. The graphics processing unit 52 renders game images, including various objects related to the virtual space, in a moving image format in accordance with game image information output from the control unit 56. The game images rendered in a moving image format are displayed on the display 61 as a game screen.

A speaker 62 is connected to the audio processing unit 53. The audio processing unit 53 plays and synthesizes game sounds in accordance with instructions from the control unit 56. The game sounds played and synthesized by the audio processing unit 53 are output from the speaker 62. Specifically, the audio processing unit 53 converts the audio data output by the control unit 56 into an analog signal and outputs it to the speaker 62.

The operation processing unit 54 is connected to the controller 63. The operation processing unit 54 transmits and receives data related to operation inputs to the controller 63. The operation processing unit 54 then transmits operation information indicating the operations input to the controller 63 to the control unit 56.

For example, the user operates the controller 63 to input an operation signal to the game device 50. That is, when the user operates the controller 63, the controller 63 transmits an operation signal corresponding to the user's operation to the operation processing unit 54. The operation processing unit 54 generates operation information based on the operation signal and transmits the operation information to the control unit 56.

The memory unit 55 stores various types of information and data. The memory unit 55 is composed of an HDD, SSD, RAM, ROM, etc. The memory unit 55 stores programs and data for executing various processes, account information assigned to the user who owns the game device 50, etc.

The control unit 56 controls the operation of the game device 50. The control unit 56 sends and receives various information and data, and processes various information and data. For example, the control unit 56 controls the display 61 and speaker 62 by controlling the graphics processing unit 52 and audio processing unit 53. The control unit 56 has a CPU (microcomputer) and memory. The memory stores programs and data for operating the CPU.

[Software configuration of the control unit of the management server]
As shown in Fig. 8, the control unit 13 of the management server 10 has a game progression unit 120 instead of the virtual space generation unit 110 shown in Fig. 1. The game progression unit 120 progresses the game (a game in which objects move within a virtual space in response to user operations) by performing processing for progressing the game.

[Software configuration of the control unit of the game device]
9, the control unit 56 of the game device 50 has a game processing unit 56a and an information processing unit 56b. In other words, the control unit 56 functions as the game processing unit 56a and the information processing unit 56b by the CPU executing various programs.

The game processing unit 56a performs processing to progress the game together with the game progression unit 120 of the management server 10.

The information processing unit 56b processes various types of information and data. The information processing unit 56b sends and receives various types of information and data to and from the management server 10. The information processing unit 56b also operates in response to control by the control unit 13 of the management server 10. The sending and receiving of data and information by the information processing unit 56b is performed via the network interface 31.

For example, the information processing unit 56b controls the display 61 and speaker 62 connected to the game device 50 based on various information and data transmitted from the control unit 13 of the management server 10. The information processing unit 56b also generates various information in response to operations input to the controller 63 connected to the game device 50, and transmits the various information to the management server 10. The control unit 13 of the management server 10 operates based on the various information transmitted from the information processing unit 56b of the game device 50.

[Processing in the management system]
The processing (management processing) by the management system 1 of embodiment 2 includes a game progression processing instead of the virtual space construction processing of embodiment 1. Note that other processing included in the management processing of embodiment 2 (specifically, a first area setting processing, a second area setting processing, a login processing, a first behavior detection processing, a second behavior detection processing, and a reward granting processing) is the same as the other processing included in the management processing of embodiment 1.

[Game Progression Processing]
Next, the processing (game progression processing) performed by the game progression unit 120 of the management server 10 and the game processing unit 56a of the game device 50 will be described.

The game progression unit 120 transmits game data, which is data for executing the game, to the game device 50. The game processing unit 56a outputs images and sounds related to the game to the display 61 and speaker 62 based on the game data transmitted from the management server 10. The user views the images and sounds output from the display 61 and speaker 62, and operates the controller 63.

The game processing unit 56a sends operation information indicating operations input to the controller 63 to the management server 10. Based on the operation information sent from the game device 50, the game progression unit 120 generates game data that reflects that operation information and sends that game data to the game device 50.

The game progresses as the above processing is repeated. In this example, the game is one in which a player character moves within a game space in response to user operations. The game space is an example of a virtual space. The player character is an example of an object that moves within the virtual space in response to user operations.

[Second Area Setting Process]
In the second area setting process of the second embodiment, a virtual area that exists within the game space in which the game is played is set as a "second virtual area A22."

[Virtual behavior detection processing]
In the virtual behavior detection process included in the second behavior detection process of the second embodiment, a predetermined behavior is detected in a "virtual area within the game space" set in the second virtual area A22. In the virtual behavior detection process of the second embodiment, the virtual behavior detection unit 322 monitors the position and movement of the player character in the game space. The virtual behavior detection unit 322 also monitors operations (operations by the user) input to the controller 63 to move an object located at a specific point included in the second virtual area A22.

[Specific examples of predetermined actions in the second area (virtual area)]
Next, predetermined actions in the second virtual area A22 of the second embodiment will be described using an example in which the second virtual area A22 is a "shrine area." In the shrine area, objects that resemble shrines in the real world are placed.

The shrine area is an example of a virtual area that can be likened to a shrine area. An object that resembles a shrine is an example of an object that can be likened to a shrine building. For example, if the shrine area set in the first area A10 is the "main shrine," then the shrine area set in the second virtual area A22 would be a "branch shrine."

The player character will behave as follows in the second virtual area A22, which is a shrine area within the game space.

First, the player character arrives at the shrine area, which is the second virtual area A22. At this point, the action of the player character's position in the game space arriving at the shrine area (one of the predetermined actions in the second virtual area A22) is detected.

Next, the player character arrives at the shrine in the shrine area, which is the second virtual area A22. At the shrine, the player character takes the following actions:

As shown in FIG. 10, at the location where the shrine is located, the player character C1 makes an offering, bows twice, claps twice, and bows once. The offering may be made by throwing in-game currency into a donation box (not shown) located in front of the shrine, or by electronic payment in front of the shrine. In other words, the player character operates to take the action (movement) of throwing in-game currency into the donation box in front of the shrine, or an operation to make electronic payment for the offering is input to the controller 63.

The "predetermined actions in the second virtual area A22" detected at the location where the shrine is located are the action (movement) of the player character throwing in-game currency into the offering box located in front of the shrine, the action of the user inputting an operation into the controller 63 to make an electronic payment for the offering in front of the shrine, and the action of the player character bowing twice, clapping twice, and bowing once in front of the shrine (an example of the movements of an object performed in a predetermined sequence).

[The impact of the second area on the game progress]
Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 10, in the game progression processing, the game progression unit 120 progresses the game so that the game progress status within a predetermined range R22 in the game space (virtual space) based on the second virtual area A22 differs from the game progress status when the second virtual area A22 is not set.

In this example, the game progress within a predetermined range R22 of the game space based on the second virtual area A22 is more advantageous to the user than the game progress when the second virtual area A22 is not set.

For example, when the position of player character C1 in the game space is within a predetermined range R22, the game progression unit 120 progresses the game so that player character C1 receives advantageous effects in the game. Examples of advantageous effects in the game include improving player character C1's parameters to give the player character C1 an advantage in the game, or restoring player character C1's stamina.

[Effects of Embodiment 2]
In the second embodiment, the same effects as those of the first embodiment can be obtained.

In addition, in embodiment 2, the game progression unit 120 progresses the game so that the game progress within a predetermined range R22 based on the second virtual area A22 (the second area A20, which is a virtual area) in the virtual space differs from the game progress when the second virtual area A22 is not set.

In embodiment 2, setting the second virtual area A22 can increase the interest of the game. This can increase the motivation to set the second virtual area A22.

(Embodiment 3)
FIG. 11 illustrates the configuration of a management system 1 according to a third embodiment. The management system 1 according to the third embodiment includes a game device 50 in addition to the configuration of the management system 1 shown in FIG. 1 . The control unit 13 of the management server 10 according to the third embodiment includes a game progression unit 120, a third area setting unit 230, and a third behavior detection unit 330 in addition to the configuration of the control unit 13 shown in FIG. 1 . The other components of the management system 1 according to the third embodiment are similar to the configuration of the management system 1 according to the first embodiment. The game progression unit 120 according to the third embodiment is similar to the game progression unit 120 according to the second embodiment. The game device 50 according to the third embodiment is similar to the game device 50 according to the second embodiment.

[Software configuration of the control unit of the management server]
The third area setting unit 230 allows the user to select an "area to be associated with the second area A20" from among real areas existing in the real world that are different from the first area A10 and the second area A20 (second real area A21), or from among virtual areas existing in the virtual space that are different from the second area A20 (second virtual area A22).The third area setting unit 230 then sets the area selected by the user as the "third area A30."The third area A30 is associated with the second area A20.

Note that the third area A30 includes the third area A30, which is a real area, and the third area A30, which is a virtual area. Hereinafter, the third area A30, which is a real area, will be referred to as the "second real area A31," and the second area A30, which is a virtual area, will be referred to as the "third virtual area A32."

The third behavior detection unit 330 detects a predetermined behavior taken by the user in the third area. Specifically, the third behavior detection unit 330 has at least one (in this example, both) of a real behavior detection unit 331 and a virtual behavior detection unit 332.

The real-world behavior detection unit 331 detects a predetermined behavior in the real world that is taken in the third real area A31. Note that the predetermined behavior in the third real area A31 (predetermined behavior in the real world) is a behavior that is related to a predetermined behavior in the second area A20. Examples of predetermined behavior in the third real area A31 are the same as examples of predetermined behavior in the second real area A21.

The real-world behavior detection process (processing for detecting a predetermined behavior in the third real-world area A31) performed by the real-world behavior detection unit 331 of the third behavior detection unit 330 is similar to the first behavior detection process performed by the first behavior detection unit 310 or the real-world behavior detection process performed by the real-world behavior detection unit 321 of the second behavior detection unit 320. For example, the "predetermined behavior in the third real-world area A31" performed by the user may be detected based on information obtained by an information acquisition unit (such as a camera 41) connected to an area terminal 20 installed in the third real-world area A31, or may be detected based on information obtained by an information acquisition unit (such as a camera 35) included in a user terminal 30 located in the third real-world area A31.

The virtual behavior detection unit 332 detects predetermined behaviors taken in the virtual space in the third virtual area A32. Note that the predetermined behaviors in the third virtual area A32 (predetermined behaviors in the virtual space) are behaviors related to predetermined behaviors in the second area A20. Examples of predetermined behaviors in the third virtual area A32 are the same as examples of predetermined behaviors in the second virtual area A22.

The virtual behavior detection process (processing for detecting a predetermined behavior in the third virtual area A32) performed by the virtual behavior detection unit 332 of the third behavior detection unit 330 is similar to the virtual behavior detection process performed by the virtual behavior detection unit 322 of the second behavior detection unit 320. For example, the "predetermined behavior in the third virtual area A32" taken by the user may be detected based on the movement of an object (an object controlled by the user) located in the third virtual area A32, or may be detected based on an operation (operation by the user) input to the controller 63 of the user terminal 30 or game device 50 to move an object located in the third virtual area A32.

In embodiment 3, in the reward granting process, the management unit 400 grants a reward to the user in accordance with at least one of a predetermined behavior in the first area A10 detected by the first behavior detection unit 310, a predetermined behavior in the second area A20 detected by the second behavior detection unit 320, and a predetermined behavior in the third area A30 detected by the third behavior detection unit 330.

[Processing performed in the management system]
The processing (management processing) by the management system 1 of embodiment 3 includes game progression processing, third area setting processing, and third behavior detection processing in addition to the processing by the management system 1 of embodiment 1. Note that the game progression processing of embodiment 3 is similar to the game progression processing of embodiment 2.

[Third Area Setting Process]
The third area setting process is similar to the second area setting process, specifically, the third area setting process corresponds to a process in which the "first area A10" and the "second area A20" in the second area setting process are replaced with the "second area A20" and the "third area A30," respectively.

[Third behavior detection process]
The third behavior detection process is similar to the second behavior detection process, and includes a process by the real behavior detection unit 331 of the third behavior detection unit 330 (real behavior detection process) and a process by the virtual behavior detection unit 332 of the third behavior detection unit 330 (virtual behavior detection process).

The real behavior detection process and virtual behavior detection process of embodiment 3 are similar to those of embodiment 1. Specifically, the real behavior detection process of embodiment 3 corresponds to the process in which the "second real area A21" in the real behavior detection process of embodiment 1 is replaced with the "third real area A31." The virtual behavior detection process of embodiment 3 corresponds to the process in which the "second virtual area A22" in the virtual behavior detection process of embodiment 1 is replaced with the "third virtual area A32."

[Reward Granting Process]
In the reward granting process of the third embodiment, the following process is performed in addition to the reward granting process of the first embodiment. In the reward granting process of the third embodiment, when the third behavior detection unit 330 detects "a predetermined behavior taken by the user in the third area A30," the management unit 400 grants a reward to the user. Then, the management unit 400 notifies the user that the reward has been granted.

Specifically, when the real behavior detection unit 331 of the third behavior detection unit 330 detects a "predetermined real-world behavior taken in the third real area A31 (predetermined behavior taken by the user in the real world)," the management unit 400 grants a reward to the user who is the subject of the predetermined behavior. Furthermore, when the virtual behavior detection unit 332 of the third behavior detection unit 330 detects a "predetermined virtual-world behavior taken in the third virtual area A32 (predetermined behavior taken in the virtual space in response to the user's operation)," the management unit 400 grants a reward to the user who is the subject of the predetermined behavior.

[Effects of the Third Embodiment]
In the third embodiment, the same effects as those of the first embodiment can be obtained.

In addition, in embodiment 3, the management unit 400 grants a reward to the user in accordance with at least one of a predetermined behavior in the first area A10 detected by the first behavior detection unit 310, a predetermined behavior in the second area A20 detected by the second behavior detection unit 320, and a predetermined behavior in the third area A30 detected by the third behavior detection unit 330.

In embodiment 3, a reward can be given to a user when the user performs a predetermined action in the third area A30. This can increase the user's motivation to visit the third area A30 (the desire to visit the third area A30).

If, for some reason, the user is unable to visit the second area A20, the user will not be able to take the prescribed action in the second area A20, and will therefore not be able to obtain the reward associated with that prescribed action. As a result, the user may become less motivated to visit the second area A20.

In embodiment 3, by visiting the third area A30 associated with the second area A20, it is possible to simulate (achieve) visiting the second area A20. Therefore, by increasing the motivation to visit the third area A30, it is possible to suppress a decrease in the motivation to visit the second area A20 even if the user is unable to visit the second area A20.

Furthermore, in embodiment 3, provided that a second area A20 associated with a first area A10 has been set, it is possible to set a third area A30 associated with that second area A20. Taking the example of a case where the first area A10 is a "shrine area," a second area A20 is set as a "branch shrine" associated with the first area A10, which is the "main headquarters," and further a third area A30 is set as a "branch shrine of the branch shrine" associated with the second area A20, which is the "branch shrine." This type of setting makes it possible to form a new community (a community that can extend not only in the real world but also in virtual space) that runs from the "main headquarters" through the "branch shrine" to the "branch shrine of the branch shrine."

In embodiment 3, the "first area A10," "second area A20," and "third area A30" may be managed hierarchically. Benefits may be set for each hierarchical level so that the benefits (benefits granted in response to specific actions in the areas belonging to that hierarchical level) differ for each hierarchical level.

(Embodiment 4)
Fig. 12 illustrates an example of the configuration of the management system 1 of embodiment 4. The control unit 13 of the management server 10 in embodiment 4 has a lottery unit 410 in addition to the configuration of the control unit 13 shown in Fig. 1. The other configuration of the management system 1 of embodiment 4 is similar to the configuration of the management system 1 of embodiment 1. The following describes an example in which a lottery ticket is consumed and a lottery is held according to the lottery ticket.

[Software configuration of the control unit of the management server]
The lottery unit 410 performs a lottery for a virtual medium to be used in the virtual space in response to a user's operation. Examples of virtual media include objects placed in the virtual space, items usable in the virtual space, and game media used in the game space. Examples of objects placed in the virtual space include objects that mimic objects that exist in the real world and objects (e.g., avatars) that operate in response to a user's operation. Examples of items usable in the virtual space include discount coupons that can be used at stores located in the virtual space.

[Information and data stored in the storage unit of the management server]
In the fourth embodiment, the storage unit 12 of the management server 10 stores, for each user, lottery ticket information indicating the lottery ticket (lottery ticket used to draw a lottery for a virtual medium) granted to that user. The lottery ticket information registers the lottery ticket granted to the user. The lottery ticket information may be information constituting part of the reward information.

[Type of lottery]
The lottery for the virtual medium held in the management system 1 of embodiment 4 includes a lottery that can only be held in the second area A20. Specifically, in the management system 1 of embodiment 4, a plurality of lotteries (types of lotteries) including a lottery that can only be held in the second area A20 are prepared. In this example, a plurality of lottery tickets (types of lottery tickets) including a lottery ticket that can only be used in the second area A20 are prepared.

[Lottery process]
Next, the processing (lottery processing) by the lottery unit 410 will be described with reference to Fig. 13. For example, a user who wishes to hold a lottery inputs an operation for preparing for the lottery (lottery preparation operation) into the user terminal 30. The lottery preparation operation includes an operation for displaying, on the display 33 of the user terminal 30, an image of a lottery selection screen for selecting the lottery the user wishes to hold from one or more lotteries (lottery tickets in this example). In response to the lottery preparation operation, the lottery unit of the management server 10 performs the following processing.

<Step S41>
First, the lottery unit 410 determines whether the location where the lottery is to be held is included in the "second area A20." If the location where the lottery is to be held is included in the second area A20, the process of step S42 is performed; if not, the process of step S43 is performed.

Specifically, the lottery unit 410 acquires location information (location information indicating the user's location in the real world) obtained by the location sensor 371 of the user terminal 30 and account information (account information assigned to the user) stored in the memory unit 38 of the user terminal 30. The lottery unit 410 then detects, from the memory unit 12 of the management server 10, second real-world area information associated with the user to whom the account information is assigned.

Next, the lottery unit 410 determines whether the location where the lottery is to be held is included in the second area A20 based on the user's location indicated in the location information and the location range of the second real area A21 indicated in the second real area information. If the "user's location" indicated in the location information is included in the "location range of the second real area A21," the lottery unit 410 determines that the location where the lottery is to be held is included in the second area A20; if not, the lottery unit 410 determines that the location where the lottery is to be held is not included in the second area A20.

Alternatively, the lottery unit 410 identifies a user who operates an object placed in the virtual space, and detects second virtual area information associated with that user from the memory unit 12 of the management server 10.

Next, the lottery unit 410 determines whether the location where the lottery is to be held is included in the second area A20 based on the position of the object in the virtual space and the position range of the second virtual area A22 indicated in the second virtual area information. If the "position of the object in the virtual space" is included in the "position range of the second virtual area A22," the lottery unit 410 determines that the location where the lottery is to be held is included in the second area A20; if not, it determines that the location where the lottery is to be held is not included in the second area A20.

<Step S42>
If the position to be selected for the lottery is included in the second area A20, the lottery unit 410 allows the user to conduct a "lottery that can only be conducted in the second area A20."

For example, the lottery unit 410 displays an image of a lottery selection screen including "lotteries that can only be held in the second area A20 (in this example, lottery tickets that can only be used in the second area A20)" on the display 33 of the user terminal 30.

The lottery unit 410 conducts the lottery selected by the user in response to an operation to conduct the lottery (for example, an operation in which the user selects the lottery they wish to conduct from one or more lotteries displayed on the lottery selection screen).

In this example, the lottery unit 410 detects the lottery ticket selected by the user from the lottery ticket information stored in the memory unit 12 of the management server 10, consumes (uses) the detected lottery ticket, and conducts a lottery according to that lottery ticket. For example, the lottery unit 410 conducts a lottery for a virtual medium based on a lottery table that shows the relationship between virtual media that are potential winners in the lottery and their winning probabilities.

The lottery unit 410 then awards the virtual medium that was won in the lottery to the user who participated in the lottery. Specifically, the lottery unit 410 associates the virtual medium awarded to the user who participated in the lottery with that user and stores it in the storage unit 12 of the management server 10. For example, the lottery unit 410 registers the virtual medium awarded to the user in the lottery in the reward information (reward information associated with that user) stored in the storage unit 12 of the management server 10.

<Step S43>
On the other hand, if the position to be selected is not included in the second area A20, the selection unit 410 prohibits the user from conducting a "selection that can only be performed in the second area A20."

For example, if a "lottery that can only be held in the second area A20 (in this example, a lottery ticket that can only be used in the second area A20)" is selected from one or more lotteries displayed on the lottery selection screen, the lottery unit 410 notifies the user via the display 33 and/or speaker 34 of the user terminal 30 that the selected lottery cannot be held (in this example, the selected lottery ticket cannot be used).

Alternatively, the lottery unit 410 displays, on the display 33 of the user terminal 30, an image notifying the user that a "lottery that can only be held in the second area A20 (in this example, a lottery ticket that can only be used in the second area A20)" cannot be held, along with an image of the lottery selection screen.

Alternatively, the lottery unit 410 displays an image of the lottery selection screen on the display 33 of the user terminal 30 that does not include "lotteries that can only be held in the second area A20 (in this example, lottery tickets that can only be used in the second area A20)."

[Effects of the Fourth Embodiment]
In the fourth embodiment, the same effects as those of the first embodiment can be obtained.

In addition, in embodiment 4, the lottery for virtual media includes a lottery that can only be held in the second area A20.

In embodiment 4, by providing a lottery that can only be held in second area A20, it is possible to increase users' interest in second area A20. This can increase users' motivation to visit second area A20.

In addition, in embodiment 4, the virtual medium lottery may include a lottery that can only be held in the first area A10. The processing (lottery processing) related to the lottery that can only be held in the first area A10 is similar to the processing (lottery processing) related to the lottery that can only be held in the second area A20. In this way, by providing a lottery that can only be held in the first area A10, it is possible to increase users' interest in the first area A10. This can increase their motivation to visit the first area A10. The same applies to the third area A30.

Furthermore, in the above description, the result of the lottery process may change depending on whether the area in which the lottery is held is within the area selected by the user (either the first area A10, the second area A20, or the third area A30). For example, the objects to be won by the lottery (potential winners) may change, or the probability of winning for the potential winners may change, depending on whether the area in which the lottery is held is within the area selected by the user.

Furthermore, in embodiment 4, a lottery that can be held in the first area A10 associated with the second area A20 may be held in the second area A20. For example, when the user's position is within the second area A20 (when the user's position in the real world is within the second real area A21, or when the user or object's position in the virtual space is within the second virtual area A22), the lottery unit 410 may permit the user to hold a lottery that can be held in the first area A10 associated with the second area A20 in the second area A20.

(Embodiment 5)
The management unit 400 in the fifth embodiment performs a selling process in addition to the process performed by the management unit 400 in the first embodiment. Other configurations and processes of the management system 1 in the fifth embodiment are the same as those of the management system 1 in the first embodiment.

The management unit 400 performs a selling process to sell virtual media used in the virtual space in response to user operations. Virtual media sold in the virtual space include virtual media that can only be sold in the first area A10.

[Sale Processing]
Next, the selling process by the management unit 400 will be described with reference to Fig. 14. For example, a user who wishes to sell a virtual medium inputs an operation to start the sale (selling operation) into the user terminal 30. The selling operation includes an operation to select the virtual medium to be sold. In response to the selling operation, the management unit 400 of the management server 10 performs the following process.

<Step S51>
First, the management unit 400 determines whether the virtual medium the user wishes to sell is a "virtual medium that can only be sold in the first area A10." If the virtual medium the user wishes to sell is a "virtual medium that can only be sold in the first area A10," the process proceeds to step S53; if not, the process proceeds to step S52.

<Step S52>
If the virtual medium that the user wishes to sell is not a "virtual medium that can only be sold in the first area A10," the management unit 400 sells the virtual medium selected by the selling operation. Specifically, the management unit 400 performs the following process.

The management unit 400 detects the virtual medium selected by the selling operation from the storage unit 12 of the management server 10 (e.g., from the remuneration information stored in the storage unit 12). The management unit 400 then disassociates the detected virtual medium from the user, and stores the payment for the sale of the virtual medium in the storage unit 12, associating it with the user. This marks the virtual medium as having been sold.

<Step S53>
On the other hand, if the virtual medium that the user wishes to sell is a "virtual medium that can only be sold in the first area A10," the management unit 400 determines whether the location where the user wishes to sell the virtual medium is included in the first area A10. Specifically, the management unit 400 performs the following process.

The management unit 400 acquires location information (location information indicating the user's location) obtained by the location sensor 371 of the user terminal 30 and account information (account information assigned to the user) stored in the memory unit 38 of the user terminal 30. The management unit 400 then detects, from the memory unit 12 of the management server 10, the first area information associated with the user to whom the account information is assigned.

Next, the management unit 400 determines whether the location where the virtual medium is to be sold is included in the first area A10 based on the user's location indicated in the location information and the location range of the first area A10 indicated in the first area information. Specifically, if the "user's location" indicated in the location information is included in the "location range of the first area A10," the management unit 400 determines that the location where the virtual medium is to be sold is included in the first area A10; if not, the management unit 400 determines that the location where the virtual medium is to be sold is not included in the first area A10.

If the location where the virtual medium is to be sold is included in the first area A10, processing in step S52 is performed; if not, processing in step S54 is performed.

<Step S54>
If the location where the virtual medium is to be sold is not included in the first area A10, the management unit 400 does not sell the virtual medium. The management unit 400 then notifies the user terminal 30 that the virtual medium cannot be sold. For example, the management unit 400 displays an image on the display 33 of the user terminal 30 indicating that the virtual medium cannot be sold.

[Effects of the Fifth Embodiment]
In the fifth embodiment, the same effects as those of the first embodiment can be obtained.

In addition, in embodiment 5, the virtual media sold in the virtual space include virtual media that can only be sold in the first area A10.

In embodiment 5, by providing virtual media that can only be sold in the first area A10, it is possible to increase users' interest in the first area A10. This can increase users' motivation to visit the first area A10.

The selling process of embodiment 5 may be similar to the lottery process of embodiment 4 (see FIG. 13). For example, the selling process may be a process in which the "lottery that can only be held in the second area A20," "second area A20," "lottery," "lottery unit 410," and "virtual medium won by lottery" in the lottery process of embodiment 4 are respectively replaced with "virtual medium that can only be sold in the first area A10," "first area A10," "sale," "management unit 400," and "remuneration obtained by sale."

Furthermore, in embodiment 5, the virtual media sold in the virtual space may include virtual media that can only be sold in the second area A20. The processing (sale processing) for virtual media that can only be sold in the second area A20 is similar to the processing (sale processing) for virtual media that can only be sold in the first area A10. In this way, by providing virtual media that can only be sold in the second area, it is possible to increase users' interest in the second area A20. This can increase users' motivation to visit the second area A20. The same applies to the third area A30.

Furthermore, in embodiment 5, buying and selling that can be done in the first area A10 associated with the second area A20 may also be able to be done in the second area A20. For example, when the user's location is within the second area A20 (when the user's location in the real world is within the second real area A21, or when the user or object's location in the virtual space is within the second virtual area A22), the management unit 400 may permit the user to buy and sell in the second area A20 that can be done in the first area A10 associated with the second area A2.

(Other embodiments)
In the above description, the case where the first behavior detection unit 310 is included in the control unit 13 of the management server 10 has been described as an example, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the first behavior detection unit 310 may be included in the control unit 23 of the area terminal 20, or may be included in the control unit 39 of the user terminal 30. In other words, a predetermined behavior by the user may be detected in the area terminal 20 (or the user terminal 30), and the detection result may be transmitted to the management server 10.

Furthermore, in the above description, for one area (one of the first area A10, second area A20, and third area A30) or one specific location set by the user, multiple predetermined actions (specifically, multiple behavioral patterns) to be taken in that area or specific location may be set.

In the above example, a reward may be granted to the user according to a predetermined action, provided that any one of multiple predetermined actions set for an area or a specific location has been taken. Alternatively, a reward may be granted to the user according to at least two of multiple predetermined actions set for an area or a specific location, provided that such actions have been taken. Alternatively, a reward may be granted to the user according to a predetermined action, provided that all of multiple predetermined actions set for an area or a specific location have been taken.

For example, if a first action is set for a location where a torii gate is located, in which the user bows in front of the torii gate, and a second action is set for the user to pass through the torii gate, the user may be given a reward corresponding to the action, provided that at least one of the first and second actions is taken. Also, if a first action is set for a location where a shrine is located, in which the user throws coins into an offering box, and a second action is set for the user to operate the user terminal 30 to make an electronic payment for the offering, the user may be given a reward corresponding to the action, provided that both the first and second actions are taken.

Furthermore, in the above description, a predetermined action taken by a user may be detected as follows:

For example, it may be possible to detect that a user has taken a specific action if the user's action completely matches a pre-set behavioral pattern (a specific action that should be taken by the user).

Alternatively, it may be possible to detect that a user has taken a predetermined action on the condition that some or all of the user's action matches some or all of a pre-defined action pattern. For example, it may be determined that a user has taken a predetermined action if the degree of match (similarity) between the user's action and the action pattern exceeds a threshold.

Specifically, if the action pattern is set to "two bows, two claps, one bow," it may be determined that the action of two bows, two claps, one bow has been taken if at least one bow out of three bows is detected (recognized). Alternatively, if the action pattern is set to "two bows, two claps, one bow," it may be determined that the action of two bows, two claps, one bow has been taken if "two bows" and "one bow" are detected, even if "two claps" are omitted.

Furthermore, in the above description, the "predetermined action in the second virtual area A22" detected by the virtual action detection unit 322 of the second action detection unit 320 may be a predetermined action taken by the user in the real world when an object operated by the user in the virtual space is located in the second virtual area A22. In other words, the virtual action detection unit 322 may determine whether or not the "predetermined action in the second virtual area A22" has been taken based on the user's action taken in the real world when the object operated by the user in the virtual space is located in the second virtual area A22. The same applies to the "predetermined action in the third virtual area A32" detected by the virtual action detection unit 332 of the third action detection unit 330.

Furthermore, in the above description, the condition for an area that can be set as the first area A10 may be set as "an area that the user has actually visited."

For example, the first area setting unit 210 may allow the user to select an area from among real areas that the user has actually visited, and set the selected area as the first area A10. Note that the determination of whether the area is a real area that the user has actually visited may be made based on location history information (information indicating the user's location history, for example, location history) stored in the memory unit 38 of the user terminal 30.

Similarly, in the above description, the condition for a real area that can be set as second area A20 may be "a real area in the real world that the user has actually visited." Furthermore, the condition for a virtual area that can be set as second area A20 may be "a virtual area in virtual space that the user has actually visited."

For example, the second area setting unit 220 may allow the user to select an area to associate with the first area A10 from "real areas the user has actually visited in the real world" or "virtual areas the user has actually visited in virtual space," and set the selected area as the second area A20. Note that the determination of whether or not the area is a virtual area the user has actually visited in virtual space may be made based on virtual location history information (information indicating the user's location history in virtual space) stored in the memory unit 12 of the management server 10.

Furthermore, in the above explanation, the first area description information (information providing a description of the first area A10) included in the first area information may be information obtained from information sources such as official websites or Wikipedia. By referring to such information, it is possible to deepen understanding of the first area. The same can be said for the specific point description information included in the first area point information, the second area description information included in the second area information, and the specific point description information included in the second area point information.

In addition, the above explanation has been given as an example of an avatar taking "predetermined actions that mimic predetermined actions in a real-world shrine area" in a virtual shrine area that mimics a real-world shrine area, but this is not limited to this. The predetermined actions in the second virtual area A22 may be actions that mimic predetermined actions in the first area A10, or they may be actions that are different from the predetermined actions in the first area A10 (individually set actions).

In addition, in the above explanation, lottery processes and selling processes have been given as examples of processes that can be performed in the first area A10 (or second area A20), but these are not limited to these. Other examples of processes that can be performed in the first area A10 (or second area A20) include processes that use virtual media to strengthen other virtual media, processes that combine virtual media, and processes that progress through a game. For example, these processes may include processes that can only be performed in the first area A10 (or second area A20).

Furthermore, in the above description, the user may be able to select whether to use "the user's position in the real world" or "the position of the user or object (object operated by the user) in the virtual space."

For example, if the user's position in the real world is within the "first area A10 (or second real area A21)" and the user or object's position in the virtual space is within the "second virtual area A22," the user may select the "user's position in the real world" and take a predetermined action within the first area A10 (or second real area A21), or may select the "user's or object's position in the virtual space" and take a predetermined action within the second virtual area A22. The same applies not only to predetermined actions, but also to predetermined processes such as lottery processes and sales processes.

Furthermore, in the above description, the rewards given to the user may be set for each area. For example, the rewards for predetermined actions in each of multiple areas associated with the user (such as the first area A10) may be different or the same. Furthermore, if multiple first areas A10 are set, the rewards for predetermined actions in each of the multiple first areas A10 may be different or the same. The same applies to rewards for predetermined actions in other areas (such as the second area A20).

Furthermore, in the above description, the reward given to the user may be set for each predetermined action (type of action). For example, the reward corresponding to "user behavior performed in a predetermined procedure" in the first area A10 and the reward corresponding to "user operation of an information terminal performed by a user for a predetermined electronic payment" in the first area A10 may be different rewards or the same reward. The same applies to rewards corresponding to predetermined actions in other areas (such as the second area A20).

Furthermore, in the above description, the reward may be given to the user each time a predetermined behavior is detected, or may be given to the user on the condition that the number of times the predetermined behavior is detected reaches a predetermined number.

Specifically, the management unit 400 may grant the user a reward corresponding to the predetermined behavior in the first area A10 each time the first behavior detection unit 310 detects "predetermined behavior in the first area A10." Alternatively, the management unit 400 may count the number of times "predetermined behavior in the first area A10" is detected by the first behavior detection unit 310, and when the number reaches a predetermined number, reset the count to zero and grant the user a reward corresponding to the predetermined behavior in the first area A10. The same applies to rewards corresponding to predetermined behavior in other areas (such as the second area A20).

Furthermore, the above description has been given as an example of a case in which the user is given a reward based on a predetermined behavior in the first area A10 detected by the first behavior detection unit 310 and a reward based on a predetermined behavior in the second area A20 detected by the second behavior detection unit 320, but this is not limited to this.

For example, the user may be granted a reward based on both a predetermined behavior in the first area A10 detected by the first behavior detection unit 310 and a predetermined behavior in the second area A20 detected by the second behavior detection unit 320. In other words, the reward granted to the user may include a reward that is granted to the user when a predetermined behavior is detected in the first area A10 and a predetermined behavior is detected in the second area A20.

Furthermore, in the above description, a "period and number of times that a reward can be granted" may be set for each reward. For example, a reward granted in response to either a predetermined action in the first area A10 or a predetermined action in the second area A20 (a reward that is granted if a predetermined action is taken in either the first area A10 or the second area A20) may be granted up to once per day, while a reward granted only in response to a predetermined action in the first area A10 (a reward that is not granted unless a predetermined action is taken in the first area A10) may be granted up to once per month.

Furthermore, in the above description, in the login process that can be performed in a specific real-world area (first area A10 and second real-world area A21), a user may be permitted to log in on the condition that a predetermined action has been taken in that specific real-world area. Examples of predetermined actions include the action of passing through a torii gate, the action of offering coins, etc.

In addition, in a login process that can be executed in a specific real-world area, if a user is permitted to log in on the condition that they have taken the action of passing through a torii gate, the user may be permitted to log in by an alternative method if they are unable to pass through the torii gate due to reasons such as being in mourning. Examples of alternative methods include going in front of the torii gate or passing beside the gate without going through it. For example, a user who is in mourning cannot pass through the torii gate, but can achieve the effect of being permitted to log in by taking the action of passing beside the torii gate (alternative method).

In addition, in the above description, the login bonus granted to a user through a login process that can be executed in a specific real-world area may vary depending on the time conditions under which the user is permitted to log in. For example, the login bonus obtained on a specific day may be larger than the login bonus obtained on days that are not specific days. Furthermore, the login bonus obtained on a specific day may be more expensive than the login bonus obtained on days that are not specific days. Note that specific days may be set by an administrator who manages the management system 1, an administrator who manages a specific real-world area, or a user. Furthermore, the number of days that a user can set as specific days may be limited to a predetermined number of days.

Furthermore, in the above description, in a login process that can be performed in a specific real-world area, a user may be permitted to log in on the condition that a predetermined amount of time has passed since the previous login. For example, in the login process, a user may be permitted to log in if the user's location is included in a specific real-world area associated with that user and a predetermined amount of time (e.g., one day) has passed since the previous login. Alternatively, a user may be permitted to log in if it is the day after the previous login.

Furthermore, in the above description, the login bonus awarded to a user through a login process that can be executed in a specific real-world area may vary depending on the amount of time that has passed since the last login. For example, the login bonus awarded when the amount of time that has passed since the last login is less than a predetermined amount of time (e.g., one day) may be less than the login bonus awarded when the amount of time that has passed since the last login is greater than or equal to the predetermined amount of time.

Furthermore, in the above description, the management unit 400 may grant a consecutive login bonus to a user. A consecutive login bonus is a benefit granted to a user when the number of consecutive days the user has logged in reaches a predetermined number of days. In this case, a consecutive login bonus may be granted to a user when the number of consecutive days the user has logged in to at least one of the areas set by the user (first area A10, second area A20, third area A30) reaches a predetermined number of days.

Furthermore, in the above description, a level (area level) related to the first area A10 associated with each user may be set for each user. For example, the "area level related to the first area A10" set for each user is registered in the first area information related to that user and the first area A10. The same applies to other areas associated with the user (such as the second area A20).

For example, the area level associated with the first area A10 may increase as the number of visits to the first area A10 increases. In this case, updating (adding) the number of visits to the first area A10 may be permitted on the condition that a predetermined amount of time (e.g., one day) has passed since the last visit to the first area A10.

Furthermore, the login bonus obtained by the login process in the first area A10 may include points (area points) corresponding to the level associated with the first area A10. In this case, as the number of area points increases, the area level associated with the first area A10 corresponding to those area points may become higher. In this case, area point updates (additions) may be permitted on the condition that a predetermined amount of time (e.g., one day) has passed since the last visit to the first area A10. Alternatively, area point updates (additions) may be permitted on or after the day after the last login. The same applies to other areas associated with the user (such as the second area A20).

Furthermore, the area level associated with the first area A10 may change depending on the number of times the user visits the second area A20 associated with that first area A10. For example, the area level associated with the first area A10 may increase as the number of times the user visits the second area A20 associated with the first area A10 increases. The same applies to other areas associated with the user (such as the second area A20).

Furthermore, the reward obtained by visiting the first area A10 may vary depending on the area level associated with that first area A10. For example, as the area level associated with the first area A10 increases, the reward obtained by visiting the first area A10 may increase, or the reward obtained by visiting the first area A10 may become more expensive. The same applies to other areas associated with the user (such as the second area A20).

Furthermore, the area level associated with the first area A10 may change depending on the area points corresponding to the second area A20 associated with that first area A10. For example, the area level associated with the first area A10 may increase as the number of area points corresponding to the second area A20 associated with the first area A10 increases. The same applies to other areas associated with the user (such as the second area A20).

In addition, in the above description, the first area A10 may be available to users other than the user who set up the first area A10. In this case, the area level associated with the first area A10 may increase as the number of times users other than the user who set up the first area A10 visit the first area A10 increases. Furthermore, the way in which the area level increases (the amount of increase) in response to the number of times users other than the user who set up the first area A10 visit the first area A10 may be different from the way in which the area level increases in response to the number of times the user who set up the first area A10 visits the first area A10. The same applies to other areas associated with the user (such as the second area A20).

Furthermore, in the above description, the rewards obtained by passing through the first area A10 may include rewards that affect the game. Examples of rewards that affect the game include the effect of improving game parameters (e.g., the parameters of a character owned by the user) to give an advantage in the game, the effect of raising the character's level, the effect of imparting skills to a character, the effect of restoring a character's stamina, and the effect of reviving a character. The same applies to other areas associated with the user (e.g., the second area A20).

Furthermore, attributes of each first area A10 may be set for that first area A10. For example, the attributes of the first area A10 may be set by an administrator managing the management system 1, an administrator managing a specific real-world area, or a user.

Furthermore, the rewards obtained by passing through the first area A10 (particularly rewards that affect the game) may vary depending on the attributes of that first area A10. For example, "pre-set attributes for the first area A10" may correspond to "in-game attributes (fire, water, earth, wind, etc.)," and the rewards obtained by passing through the first area A10 may be items with attributes that correspond to the attributes of that first area A10.

In addition, while the above explanation has been given as an example of electronic payment for offerings, this is not limiting. For example, offerings may be made using virtual currency. In this case, the results of offerings may be managed using blockchain (distributed ledger technology). Offerings may also be made using game media (for example, in-game currency or items). Offerings may also be made using points that replace cash.

Furthermore, in the above description, characters, which are an example of game media, may include characters that undergo special effects when sold in a specific area. The special effects may be different for each character, or may be different for each location where the character is sold. The special effects may be a process performed by the management unit 400. For example, the management unit 400 may output images and sounds for the above effects to a display and speaker that output images and sounds to the user.

Furthermore, in the above description, if an "object representing a real-world chozuya" or an "object representing a real-world incense burner" is placed within the game space, the player character may take a predetermined action at the location where the object is placed, thereby gaining an advantageous effect in the game for the player character. For example, an abnormal status of the player character may be eliminated.

Furthermore, in the above description, by a user taking a predetermined action in a real area (such as the first area A10), the user may enjoy advantageous effects in the game they are playing. For example, by a user taking the action of washing their hands in a predetermined procedure at a water basin located in the real area, a status abnormality of the player character controlled by that user may be resolved.

Furthermore, in the above description, a shrine office may be placed in a shrine area that exists in the real world. Similarly, a virtual shrine office may be placed in a virtual shrine area that exists in virtual space. Digital content related to the shrine may then be sold at the shrine office. An example of such digital content may be digital data (image data) representing a shrine seal. Note that the digital content may be an NTF (Non-Fungible Token). The digital content may also be sold online.

Furthermore, in the above description, the path to reach the first area A10 may also be part of the game. For example, the game progression unit 120 progresses a game in which the player character walks along a virtual road within the game space (a virtual road that mimics the road leading to the first area A10) in response to user operations. In addition, inns, teahouses (rest areas), palanquins, rickshaws, priests, enemies, etc. may be placed on the virtual road. The same applies to other areas associated with the user (such as the second area A20).

In addition, multiple virtual paths (virtual paths that mimic the path leading to the first area A10) may be provided within the above-mentioned game space. The multiple virtual paths may each have a different level of difficulty. For example, the number and strength of enemies, the number of ups and downs and obstacles, the number of rest areas, etc. may be set for each virtual path depending on the difficulty of that path. Furthermore, the effects obtained on each virtual path (effects that affect the progress of the game) may differ.

Furthermore, in the above description, a virtual user area (an area to which a group of users belongs) in which a specific user is set (for example, installed) as a symbol may be provided within the virtual space. For example, a user who has made a certain achievement in the virtual space and retired from the virtual space may be set as a symbol in the virtual user area. Furthermore, rewards that can be obtained by visiting this user area may include rewards based on the user set as a symbol in that user area, the achievements that the user made, etc.

Furthermore, in the above description, a memorial object may be placed at a point in the game space where the number of times a character has died (the number of times the game has ended) exceeds a predetermined number. The memorial object may be placed on the condition that the user pays a fee.

Furthermore, within the above-mentioned game space, the game progress within a predetermined range based on the above-mentioned memorial object (for example, a circular range centered on the memorial object) may be different from the game progress outside the predetermined range based on the memorial object. For example, the game progress within the predetermined range based on the memorial object may be more advantageous to the user than the game progress outside the predetermined range based on the memorial object.

Furthermore, in the above explanation, hauntings may be set in accordance with people's rumors. For example, the management unit 400 may analyze information posted on websites such as blogs and SNS (Social Networking Service) and conversations (chats) taking place within the virtual space, and based on the results of this analysis, set things that are attracting attention as hauntings within the virtual space, and set virtual areas in which these hauntings are located. Furthermore, the management unit 400 may erase the hauntings when attention to the things that have been set as hauntings decreases.

Furthermore, in the above description, events that mimic events held in real-world shrine areas may be held in the virtual shrine area set up in the virtual space. Examples of events held in shrine areas include competitions to determine the lucky man (e.g., races), kemari (Japanese kemari), and yabusame (horseback archery). Furthermore, the results of competitions to determine the lucky man in the virtual shrine area may be managed as NFTs (Non-Fungible Tokens).

Furthermore, in the above description, the sensor 43 connected to the area terminal 20 may detect the user's movements, position, line of sight, body temperature, breathing, etc. In other words, the information acquired by the sensor 43 (information derived from the user's behavior) may include the user's movements, position, line of sight, body temperature, breathing, etc. Then, a predetermined behavior by the user may be detected based on this information. The same can be said for the sensor 37 included in the user terminal 30.

In the above explanation, the location sensor 371 (GPS) and the behavior sensor 372 (acceleration sensor, gyro sensor, etc.) have been given as examples of the sensor 37 of the user terminal 30, but this is not limiting. Other examples of the sensor 37 include a proximity sensor (infrared sensor, magnetic sensor, etc.), an ambient light sensor, a geomagnetic sensor (compass), and a barometric pressure sensor. Specific actions by the user may then be detected based on this information.

Furthermore, in the above explanation, a "user terminal 30" and a "game device 50" have been given as examples of information terminals used by users, but these are not limited to these. For example, the information terminal used by a user may be an information terminal including smart glasses such as AR (Augmented Reality) glasses, an information terminal including a head-mounted display, a personal computer, etc.

Specifically, the information terminal carried by the user may be a smartphone, tablet, information terminal including smart glasses, information terminal including a head-mounted display, notebook personal computer, etc. Examples of information terminals into which the user inputs operations to operate objects placed in a virtual space may be a smartphone, tablet, information terminal including a head-mounted display, notebook computer, desktop personal computer, etc.

If the virtual space is an augmented reality space (a virtual space where you can experience augmented reality (AR), a real world where additional information is displayed), an image of the virtual space may be constructed by superimposing an image (video) of flowing water on an image (video) of a chozuya (purification fountain) in the shrine area in the real world. In this case, the user can purify their hands (the act of purifying their hands with water scooped up with a ladle) without actually touching the water.

Furthermore, if the virtual space is an augmented reality space, an image of the virtual space may be constructed by superimposing an image (video) of smoke on an image (video) of a real-world incense burner in a temple area in the real world. In this case, the user can take the action (behavior) of being exposed to the smoke from the incense burner without actually touching the smoke.

Furthermore, in the above explanation, a "shrine area" was given as an example of the first area A10, but this is not limited to this. For example, the first area A10 may be a religious area such as a temple area, a school area where schools are located, or some other area. The same applies to the second area A20.

Furthermore, in the above description, the first area A10 and the second area A20 are outdoor areas, but this is not limiting. The first area A10 and the second area A20 may also be indoor areas. For example, the second real area A21 may be an area within a house.

Furthermore, the above-mentioned areas within the house may be "real areas likened to shrine areas." For example, a "washroom" within the house may be likened to a "chozuya" (purification foyer) in the shrine area. A "predetermined room" within the house may be likened to a "main shrine" in the shrine area. A "piggy bank" placed in a predetermined room within the house may be likened to an "offering box" in the shrine area.

In addition, while the above explanation has been given with reference to an example where the real area set as the first area A10 is a "predetermined area of land," this is not limitative. For example, the real area set as the first area A10 may be the building itself or the object itself. Furthermore, the location range of the first area A10 is not limited to a circular range, but may be, for example, a range that corresponds to the shape of the site.

In addition, while the above description has been given of an example in which the first area A10 is a "real area fixed to land, etc.", this is not limiting. For example, the first area A10 may be a location (real area) where an object (a movable object) designated by the user is located. In other words, the first area A10 may be a real area that moves in conjunction with an object designated by the user (for example, a portable doll). In this case, the latest position of the first area A10 may be set to the position last determined by the user (the object's position), or may be set to the position indicated in the position information acquired by the position sensor 371 when the object was last photographed by the camera 35 included in the user terminal 30 operated by the user. The same applies to the second area A20 and the third area A30.

Furthermore, in the above description, the first area A10 may be a virtual area. In other words, the first area setting unit 210 may allow the user to select any area from the virtual areas and set the selected area as the "first area A10."

Furthermore, in the above description, the objects (e.g., avatars) placed in the virtual space may include objects that operate in response to user operations, as well as objects that are operated by a computer (e.g., the control unit 13 of the management server 10).

In addition, in the above explanation, "avatars" and "player characters" have been given as examples of objects that move within the virtual space in response to user operations, but this is not limiting. For example, an object that moves within the virtual space in response to user operations may be an object that resembles a part of the user's body (such as a hand or foot).

In addition, in the above description, an object recognized as an identifier (virtual identifier) may be placed within a virtual area that exists within the virtual space. The virtual identifier may be an imitation of an identifier placed in the real area, or may be a separate object that is different from the identifier placed in the real area.

Furthermore, the above description has been given of an example in which a "first identified object image" and a "second identified object image" are stored in the memory unit 12 of the management server 10, but this is not limiting. For example, if the third login process is not performed, the "first identified object image" and the "second identified object image" do not need to be stored in the memory unit 12.

The effects of the present invention will be achieved even when these other embodiments are adopted. Furthermore, this embodiment can be combined with other embodiments, and other embodiments can be combined with each other as appropriate. The above embodiments are essentially preferred examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention, its applications, or its uses.

As explained above, this disclosure is useful as a management technology.

1 Management system 10 Management server 11 Network interface 12 Memory unit 13 Control unit 110 Virtual space generation unit 120 Game progression unit 210 First area setting unit 220 Second area setting unit 230 Third area setting unit 310 First behavior detection unit 320 Second behavior detection unit 321 Real behavior detection unit 322 Virtual behavior detection unit 330 Third behavior detection unit 331 Real behavior detection unit 332 Virtual behavior detection unit 400 Management unit 410 Lottery unit 20 Area terminal 30 User terminal 50 Game device A10 First area A20 Second area A30 Third area

Claims (14)

a first area setting unit that allows a user to select an arbitrary area from among real areas that exist in the real world and sets the area selected by the user as a first area;
a second area setting unit that allows the user to select an area to be associated with the first area from among virtual areas existing in a virtual space, and sets the area selected by the user as a second area;
a first behavior detection unit that detects a predetermined behavior taken by the user in the first area;
a second behavior detection unit that detects a predetermined behavior taken by the user in the second area;
a management unit that grants a reward to the user in accordance with at least one of a predetermined behavior in the first area detected by the first behavior detection unit and a predetermined behavior in the second area detected by the second behavior detection unit,
The management system includes a virtual behavior detection unit , wherein the second behavior detection unit detects a predetermined behavior in the virtual space taken in the second area, which is the virtual area. In the management system of claim 1,
the second area setting unit allows the user to select an area to be associated with the first area from among real areas existing in the real world that are different from the first area and the virtual area, and sets the area selected by the user as the second area;
The second behavior detection unit includes the virtual behavior detection unit and a real behavior detection unit that detects a predetermined behavior in the real world taken in the second area, which is the real area.
Management system. In the management system of claim 1 or 2 ,
A management system in which the specified actions in the first area include at least one of the user's behavior performed in a specified procedure and the user's operation of an information terminal to make a specified electronic payment. In the management system of claim 2 ,
A management system in which the predetermined action in the real world taken in the second area, which is the real area, is an action related to the predetermined action in the first area. In the management system of claim 1 or 2 ,
A management system in which the predetermined action taken in the virtual space in the second area, which is the virtual area, includes at least one of the following actions: a movement of an object operated by the user in the virtual space in a predetermined procedure; a predetermined electronic payment made in the virtual space in response to the user's operation; and the position of the user or the object in the virtual space arriving in the second area. In the management system of claim 2 ,
a reward granted to the user in response to a predetermined action in the real world taken in the second area, which is the real area, includes a benefit to be enjoyed in the virtual space;
A management system in which the reward given to the user in accordance with a predetermined action taken in the virtual space in the second area, which is the virtual area, includes a benefit to be enjoyed in the real world. In the management system of claim 1 or 2 ,
A management system in which at least one of the rewards granted to the user in response to a specified action in the first area and the rewards granted to the user in response to a specified action in the second area includes a benefit that can be used in the first area or the second area. In the management system of claim 1 or 2 ,
a lottery unit that performs a lottery for a virtual medium to be used in the virtual space in response to an operation by the user;
A management system in which the lottery for the virtual medium includes a lottery that can only be held in the second area. In the management system of claim 2 ,
the management unit performs a login process to accept a login by the user and grant a login bonus to the user in response to the login by the user;
the login process can be performed in each of the first area and the second area, which is the real area;
A management system in which part or all of the login process executable in the second area, which is the real area, is the same as part or all of the login process executable in the first area. In the management system of claim 1 or 2 ,
the management unit performs a selling process to sell a virtual medium used in the virtual space in response to an operation by the user;
A management system in which virtual media sold in the virtual space include virtual media that can only be sold in the first area. In the management system of claim 1 or 2 ,
a game progression unit that progresses a game in which an object moves within the virtual space in response to an operation by the user,
The game progression unit is a management system that progresses the game so that the progress of the game within a predetermined range based on the second area, which is the virtual area in the virtual space, is different from the progress of the game when the second area is not set. In the management system of claim 2 ,
a third area setting unit that allows the user to select an area to be associated with the second area from among real areas existing in the real world that are different from the first area and the second area, or from among virtual areas existing in a virtual space that are different from the second area, and sets the area selected by the user as a third area;
a third behavior detection unit that detects a predetermined behavior taken by the user in the third area,
the management unit grants a reward to the user in accordance with at least one of a predetermined behavior in the first area detected by the first behavior detection unit, a predetermined behavior in the second area detected by the second behavior detection unit, and a predetermined behavior in the third area detected by the third behavior detection unit;
The third behavior detection unit is a management system that includes at least one of a real behavior detection unit that detects a predetermined behavior in the real world taken in the third area, which is the real area, and a virtual behavior detection unit that detects a predetermined behavior in the virtual space taken in the third area, which is the virtual area. a first area setting step of having a user select an arbitrary area from among real areas existing in the real world and setting the area selected by the user as a first area;
a second area setting step of having the user select an area to be associated with the first area from among virtual areas existing in the virtual space, and setting the area selected by the user as a second area;
a first behavior detection step of detecting a predetermined behavior taken by the user in the first area;
a second behavior detection step of detecting a predetermined behavior taken by the user in the second area;
a reward granting step of granting a reward to the user in accordance with at least one of a predetermined behavior in the first area detected in the first behavior detecting step and a predetermined behavior in the second area detected in the second behavior detecting step,
The management method includes a virtual behavior detection step of detecting a predetermined behavior in the virtual space taken in the second area, which is the virtual area, in the second behavior detection step . A management program that causes a computer to execute the management method of claim 13 .