Information output method, information output device, and program

Abstract

To provide an information output method, an information output device, and a program capable of outputting advice along a time axis of a plan.SOLUTION: In an information processing method, a setting operation is performed to set a goal regarding a user's activity, as well as a policy and a plan for achieving the goal, and an output operation is performed to output instruction content related to the activity according to the set plan and the user's situation. In the setting operation, a first setting operation is performed to set a final goal for the activity and a policy for achieving the final goal, and a second setting operation is performed to set an intermediate goal between an initial situation of the user at the time of setting the final goal and the final goal, and a plan for achieving the intermediate goal on the basis of the policy. In the output operation, instruction content according to the plan and the user's situation is output for each intermediate goal.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an information output method, an information output device, and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] There is a technology that evaluates the movements and tasks performed by a subject and displays the next goal, improvement goals, and advice for the movement, etc. The evaluation content may include quantitative results and evaluation values ​​related to the performance ability in the process of obtaining the results. Parameters such as the subject's age, gender, height, and weight, which are necessary depending on the type of movement, etc., may also be used to set goals, etc. Patent Document 1 discloses a technology related to vocational training that sets the parameters of a high performer for each job as goals and outputs advice and corrective action goals based on the difference between the evaluation value and the target value of each subject and level improvement according to the task.

[0003] The actions and tasks may include not only the above-mentioned jobs but also hobbies, sports activities, etc. Mobile device apps and smartwatches are known that output appropriate goals and advice to improve results based on the user's running posture, movements, resulting speed, time required, etc. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2005-108025 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] However, there is a problem in that the advice and goals displayed by the conventional technology are sequential and are not strategic based on a mid- to long-term plan to reach the goal.

[0006] An object of the present invention is to provide an information output method, an information output device, and a program that can output advice along the timeline of a plan. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] In order to achieve the above object, the present invention provides performing a setting operation to set a goal for a certain activity of the user and a policy and plan for achieving the goal; performing an output operation to output instructions related to the activity according to the set plan and the user's situation; In the setting operation, a first setting operation for setting a final goal for the activity and a policy for achieving the final goal; a second setting operation of setting an intermediate goal between the initial state of the user at the time of setting the final goal and the final goal, and setting a plan for achieving the intermediate goal based on the policy; and In the output operation, the instruction content according to the plan and the user's situation is output for each intermediate goal. This is an information output method. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the present invention, it is possible to output advice along the timeline of the plan. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] 1 is a configuration diagram showing an information output system according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the measuring device and the electronic device. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of a server device. [Figure 4] 10 is a diagram showing a list of each process related to practice support. [Figure 5] 10 is a flowchart illustrating a control procedure for a method setting process according to the present embodiment. [Figure 6] 10 is a flowchart showing a control procedure for plan setting processing. [Figure 7] 10 is a flowchart showing a control procedure of advice control processing. [Figure 8] 10 is a flowchart showing a control procedure of advice output control processing executed by the measurement device. [Figure 9] 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of intervention in an assist process. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram showing an information output system 100 according to this embodiment. The information output system 100 of this embodiment creates a plan for the user to achieve a goal regarding a certain activity, for example, running. The information output system 100 can provide support to the user by explaining the plan content, the user's execution of the plan, the goal achievement status, challenges, etc., and by notifying the user of the situation and giving advice.

[0011] The information output system 100 includes a measuring device 1, an electronic device 4, and a server device 7.

[0012] The measurement device 1 is a body-worn terminal device worn on the user's body to measure activity. Here, the measurement device 1 is a wristwatch-type smartwatch or activity monitor. There may be multiple measurement devices 1. For example, in addition to the wristwatch-type devices, a waist-worn measurement device 1 may be included. The measurement device 1 accepts operations related to activity selection, start, and interruption, and performs measurements. The measurement device 1 may also be capable of performing simple parameter detection processing in real time during measurement and after measurement is completed, and outputting simple measurement information, advice, etc.

[0013] The electronic device 4 acquires and analyzes the measurement results obtained by the measuring device 1. The electronic device 4 can display advice, comments, and the like based on the analysis results together with the analysis results. The electronic device 4 is, for example, a smartphone. A continuous communication connection for a long period of time may be possible between the measuring device 1 and the electronic device 4. As such communication, for example, the measuring device 1 and the electronic device 4 may be able to communicate with each other using the Bluetooth (registered trademark) low energy standard.

[0014] The server device 7 acquires the analysis results from each user's electronic device 4 and records the analysis results in a database 732. The server device 7 statistically processes the analysis results stored in the database 732 to obtain the ability distribution of multiple users and the tendency of ability improvement as a result of training. This information can be referenced from each user's electronic device 4 based on the user's level, etc. The electronic devices 4 and the server device 7 are connected for communication via the Internet. For communication, for example, a wireless LAN and / or a mobile phone line can be used.

[0015] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the measuring device 1 and the electronic device 4. As shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 2(a), the measuring device 1 includes a control unit 11, a RAM 12 (Random Access Memory), a storage unit 13, a communication unit 14, a display unit 15, an operation reception unit 16, an alarm operation unit 17, a measurement unit 18, a positioning operation unit 19, and the like.

[0016] The control unit 11 has a processor that controls the overall operation of the measuring device 1. The processor may be a general-purpose CPU (Central Processing Unit) or a dedicated microcomputer. One processor may perform all processing centrally, or multiple processors may perform processing in parallel or independently for each purpose.

[0017] The RAM 12 provides a working memory space for the processor of the control unit 11 and stores temporary data. The RAM 12 is, for example, a DRAM.

[0018] The storage unit 13 is a non-volatile memory that stores a program 131, setting data, history data 133 of analysis results based on measurement results of past activities, etc. Furthermore, the measurement data of the activity may be transferred from the RAM 12 to the storage unit 13 and held there for an appropriate period of time before being transmitted to the electronic device 4. The non-volatile memory may be, for example, a flash memory. The setting data may include index data 132 indicating a goal to be achieved and a standard for each parameter (index value) corresponding to the goal. The parameters may include some or all of widely known running parameters, such as stride, pitch, upper body tilt and swing, magnitude of arm swing, rotation of the hip position, and magnitude of left and right swing and up and down movement. The history data 133 is acquired from the electronic device 4 after the analysis in the electronic device 4 is completed.

[0019] The communication unit 14 includes a module for controlling communication operations, etc. The communication unit 14 is communicatively connectable to the electronic device 4 via Bluetooth or the like, as described above.

[0020] The display unit 15 has a digital display screen and controls the display on the digital display screen under the control of the control unit 11. The display unit 15 may be capable of displaying various parameters related to the activity and their changes over time in real time or as a history after completion. The display unit 15 may also be capable of displaying the current time, date and time, etc., or switchably displaying them.

[0021] The operation reception unit 16 includes one or more push button switches. The operation reception unit 16 detects the pressing of the push button switch and outputs a detection signal to the control unit 11. The operation reception unit 16 may also include a crown and a touch panel. The crown detects the pulling out operation, the pushing back operation, and the rotation operation, and outputs an operation signal according to the detected content to the control unit 11. The touch panel is located overlapping the digital display screen. When the touch panel detects a touch operation, it outputs a signal indicating the position of the touch operation to the control unit 11.

[0022] The annunciation operation unit 17 performs an annunciation operation to the outside. The annunciation operation may be, for example, the generation of a beep, the generation of a vibration, or the output of a sound. The annunciation operation unit 17 has a configuration according to the content of the annunciation operation. The sound output may be performed by outputting an audio signal to an earphone or the like in addition to or instead of outputting from a speaker. The earphone may be a wireless earphone that receives an audio signal via Bluetooth or the like via the communication unit 14, converts it into sound, and outputs it.

[0023] The measurement unit 18 performs various measurements related to the activity. The measurement unit 18 has, for example, an acceleration sensor, a direction sensor, and a pulse sensor. In addition to these, the measurement unit 18 may also have some or all of a gyro sensor, a temperature sensor, a barometric pressure sensor, and an oxygen saturation sensor. The measurement results of the measurement unit 18 are converted into digital discrete values ​​at a predetermined sampling frequency and output to the control unit 11.

[0024] The positioning operation unit 19 receives radio waves from positioning satellites related to the GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) and performs positioning calculations based on the received signals. The positioning operation unit 19 may have dedicated modules for radio wave reception and positioning calculations.

[0025] As shown in FIG. 2(b), the electronic device 4 includes a control unit 41, a RAM 42, a storage unit 43, a communication unit 44, a display unit 45, an operation reception unit 46, an announcing operation unit 47, and the like.

[0026] The control unit 41 has a processor that controls the overall operation of the electronic device 4. The processor may be a general-purpose CPU (Central Processing Unit) or a dedicated microcomputer. One processor may perform all processing in a centralized manner, or multiple processors may perform processing in parallel or independently for each purpose.

[0027] The RAM 42 provides a working memory space for the processor of the control unit 41 and stores temporary data. The RAM 42 may be, for example, a DRAM. The temporary data includes measurement results acquired from the measurement device 1 during the execution of an activity. The measurement results themselves may be deleted after the analysis process is completed.

[0028] The storage unit 43 is a non-volatile memory that stores a program 431, a measurement database 432 including setting data and analysis results based on measurement results of past activities, etc. The non-volatile memory may be, for example, a flash memory. The setting data includes practice information 433 related to the activity and plan progress data 434. The program 431 may include separate programs for method setting processing, plan setting processing, advice control processing, and assist processing, which will be described later.

[0029] The communication unit 44 has a module for controlling communication operations, etc. As described above, the communication unit 44 can be connected to the electronic device 4 via Bluetooth or the like, and can communicate with the server device 7 or the like via the Internet. The communication unit 44 may externally acquire weather information around the current location, particularly information on rainfall, snowfall, wind direction and strength, etc.

[0030] The display unit 45 has a digital display screen and controls the display on the digital display screen based on the control of the control unit 41. The display unit 45 may also be capable of displaying information relating to functions other than activity-related information.

[0031] The operation reception unit 46 includes, for example, a touch panel and a push button switch. The touch panel is positioned so as to overlap the digital display screen. When the touch panel detects a touch operation, it outputs a signal indicating the position of the touch operation to the control unit 41. The operation reception unit 46 detects a push operation of the push button switch and outputs a detection signal to the control unit 41.

[0032] The annunciation unit 47 performs an annunciation operation to the outside. The annunciation operation may be, for example, generation of a beep, generation of a vibration, output of a sound, etc. The annunciation unit 47 has a configuration according to the content of the annunciation operation.

[0033] FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the server device 7. The server device 7 may be a normal PC (Personal Computer), etc. The server device 7 includes a control unit 71, a RAM 72, a storage unit 73, a communication unit 74, a display unit 75, an operation reception unit 76, etc.

[0034] The control unit 71 has a processor that controls the overall operation of the server device 7. The processor may be a general-purpose CPU (Central Processing Unit) or a dedicated microcomputer. One processor may perform all processing in a centralized manner, or multiple processors may perform processing in parallel or independently for each purpose.

[0035] The RAM 72 provides a working memory space for the processor of the control unit 71 and stores temporary data. The RAM 72 may be, for example, a DRAM.

[0036] The storage unit 73 is a non-volatile memory and stores a program 731, a database 732, and the like. The non-volatile memory may be, for example, a hard disk drive (HDD) or a flash memory. The storage unit 73 may be an auxiliary storage device externally attached to the PC main body. Alternatively, the storage unit 73 may include a network drive or a cloud server located on a network.

[0037] The communication unit 74 has a module for controlling communication operations, etc. As described above, the communication unit 74 is capable of communicating with the electronic device 4 via the Internet.

[0038] The display unit 75 has a digital display screen, and controls the display on the digital display screen based on the control of the control unit 71.

[0039] The operation receiving unit 76 may include, for example, a push button switch, a pointing device such as a mouse, and a keyboard. The display unit 75 and the operation reception unit 76 may be peripheral devices attached to the control unit 71, RAM 72, and storage unit 73 (which may include the communication unit 74), which are the main body of a PC (computer). Alternatively, the server device 7 is in principle accessed via an external terminal device, and the display unit 75 and the like may not normally be connected except for a power button, a reset switch, and the like.

[0040] Database 732 stores the profiles of many users, the methods that those users have practiced in the past, the duration of the methods, the results of the practice, and changes in each parameter. Database 732 may also store information such as problems that may arise during the practice of a method, points that are likely to be difficult to improve, the status of discontinuing the practice of a method midway, and the rate at which each goal is achieved. Note that the term "method" here refers to a method, method, or scheme determined to achieve a certain goal and / or objective. Examples of methods include Method A (technique, physical, mental), Method B (technique, physical, tactics), and Method C (technique, physical, mental, tactics). Alternatively, the items defined in each method may include items other than the techniques listed above.

[0041] Next, the operation of assisting the user in achieving a goal will be described. In the information output method of this embodiment, a training plan is determined based on the user's goal and deadline. In other words, the training plan here is a plan for active workouts to help the user improve their abilities and acquire skills. Here, an example will be described in which the user's training plan is generated by a server device 7, which serves as the information output device of this embodiment. However, GUI operations for generation may be performed by the electronic device 4. Necessary information is sequentially sent from the electronic device 4 to the server device 7, and the server device 7 creates the training plan. The created training plan is stored in the server device 7 and sent to the electronic device 4. Alternatively, the information necessary for creation may be obtained from the server device 7, and the electronic device 4 may generate the training plan. Furthermore, user operations accepted during generation may be obtained from the measurement device 1.

[0042] Compared to daily, haphazard practice, such a training plan can efficiently improve abilities and skills toward a goal. On the other hand, if the gap between the user's ability and the target goal is large, it may be difficult for the user to see the path to the target goal, making it difficult to maintain motivation. In the information output method of this embodiment, first, the target goal is set as the final goal, and a first setting operation is performed to determine an overall policy (method) for achieving the final goal. Then, appropriate intermediate goals are set between the user's current ability and the final goal, and a second setting operation is performed to determine a more detailed training plan for each intermediate goal. The user reaches the final goal by sequentially achieving the intermediate goals according to the instructions output in accordance with the training plan. As for the intermediate goals and plans, new goals and plans may be set each time a new intermediate goal is achieved.

[0043] FIG. 4 is a chart showing a list of each process related to support for goal achievement. The overall (method) final goal is determined based on the initial status, such as the current ability and skill at the time the final goal is set, the user's profile, and the target time to achieve the final goal. The target time may include, for example, a specific time, such as 300 hours, a specific period, such as 90 days, or a specific deadline, such as December 1, 2024. The final goal may be determined, for example, based on data collected from a large number of users in the past, particularly based on the percentage of users who have achieved the final goal, whose initial status, such as the user's current ability and skill, falls within a predetermined reference range. The profile may include the user's physical characteristics, such as height and weight, as well as age and gender. A method, which is the overall practice guideline, is determined based on the overall final goal. A method may be selectable if it is socially well-known to some extent and has a sample size of users who have already successfully implemented it that is greater than a certain threshold. When a new method (including an improvement of an existing method) is proposed, its applicability to general users may be determined after information is obtained in advance from test users, etc. In this embodiment, a plurality of method candidates may be stored in advance, each corresponding to a range of the final goal. When there are a plurality of candidates, one of them may be selected according to the user's preference.

[0044] The end goal may be represented by the user's expected performance. That is, in running, performance may be expressed as a combination of distance traveled and time spent traveling, for example. Distance traveled may include the total distance traveled within a certain period of time. Time spent traveling may include the total time spent traveling within a certain period of time.

[0045] An intermediate goal is defined by dividing the period from the initial state to the final goal into multiple sections, and each section is defined based on the improvement expected through the method. A plan is a plan established in stages to achieve the intermediate goal according to the method. There need not be just one intermediate goal. The intermediate goal may be defined based on abilities or skills, or based on the abilities or skills expected for each period, such as one to two weeks or one month. The plan may define more specific body part strengthening and improvement points based on the skills and abilities expected at each stage. A specific plan for a defined method may be obtained, for example, from the output of a machine learning model. For example, the method and the output of the plan in response to input of each parameter value at the start of the method may be generated in advance by an expert or the like as training data, and the machine learning model may be trained using this data. Such a machine learning model may have a configuration related to a decision tree, for example.

[0046] However, such intermediate goals and plans for achieving the intermediate goals may not necessarily directly correspond to the final goal. In such cases, the user may easily lose sight of the significance of performing the workout according to the plan. Therefore, when updating an intermediate goal and setting a new plan accordingly, the significance and effects of the intermediate goal or plan may be explained. Furthermore, when setting a plan, if there is a discrepancy between the abilities or skills expected from the workout and the actual degree of growth in the workout, the plan may be adjusted. Furthermore, a plan for achieving an intermediate goal may include a specific menu (practice content, training content) for achieving the intermediate goal. Specifically, the plan may include, for example, content for physical training included in Method A.

[0047] Furthermore, for each workout performed according to the plan established in accordance with the set plan, it is determined whether or not the set intermediate goals have been achieved. Furthermore, the performance corresponding to the target level of the plan is compared with the user's performance, and specific advice is output in response to the identified problems. In other words, the problems may be identified based on the expected level of the target level.

[0048] In this way, in this embodiment, the final goal, intermediate goals, and individual workouts are processed separately in a hierarchical manner, while the processes in adjacent hierarchical levels are organically connected. Therefore, in this embodiment, the user's motivation is maintained by challenging themselves with nearby goals and recent areas for improvement, and they are efficiently guided toward the final goal.

[0049] However, even with the above, individual progress may stagnate or problems may arise that are difficult to solve. The system further includes an assist process that intervenes irregularly when certain conditions are met and quantitatively evaluates what other users have achieved in the past according to an effective method. That is, this assist process is invoked as a single-purpose interrupt process each time a certain condition is met irregularly. This approach allows the user to understand that even if a certain condition is causing the user to struggle, it has been achieved statistically in many cases, making it easier to maintain the user's motivation. Note that the assist process does not have to be invoked irregularly. The assist process may be executed after each workout. This allows the user to periodically receive assistance content that reflects the results of the workout.

[0050] FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing the control procedure of the method setting process of this embodiment. This method setting process, which functions as the first setting means in the program of this embodiment, may be executed once when an activity toward a certain goal is started.

[0051] The control unit 71 determines whether the user for whom a method is to be set is the user who is generating a method for the activity for the first time (S1). If it is the first time that a method for this activity is to be generated (S1; Y), the control unit 71 acquires the user's profile and current ability (S2). If the user has already been registered when setting up an app in the electronic device 4, the profile may be acquired from the registered information. The current ability may be acquired by acquiring and analyzing the results of the user's actual running. Then, the control unit 71 proceeds to step S4.

[0052] If this is not the first time a method related to this activity is being generated (S1; N), the control unit 71 acquires information on the practice history and skills possessed up to that point (S3).Then, the control unit 71 proceeds to step S4.

[0053] The control unit 71 acquires information about the deadline for achieving the goal and calculates the target time (number of remaining days) from the present until the deadline (S4). The deadline for achieving the goal is mainly set on the date of an event such as a tournament or competition, but may be set earlier or may simply be a user's wish. The deadline for achieving the goal may be received by the operation receiving unit 16, 46, etc.

[0054] The control unit 71 extracts, as selectable final goal candidates, candidates within a goal range that are assumed to be achievable or above a standard based on the current ability and skill and the target time. The extracted candidates are displayed as a list on the display unit 75 (S5). Alternatively, display control information for the extracted candidates may be sent to the electronic device 4 via the communication unit 74, and the list may be displayed on the display unit 45 of the electronic device 4. In this way, goals that are realistically difficult to achieve cannot be selected. It is assumed that the higher the goal to be achieved, the more difficult the workout content to achieve the goal. The control unit 71 detects a selection operation by the user on the operation reception unit 76, or receives the content of the input operation on the operation reception unit 46 via the communication unit 74, and sets the selected content as the final goal (S6).

[0055] The control unit 71 acquires candidate methods that can be used to achieve the selected final goal and displays them as a list on the display unit 75 or causes the display unit 45 to display them as a list (S7). As described above, there may be multiple candidate methods. These candidate methods may differ in some or all of the following: the number of workouts available per week, the duration of each workout, etc. Each user has different work situations, learning situations, and family circumstances. The user may select a method that is feasible based on their own living conditions and motivation. The number of workouts available per week may be included in the initial condition input, along with a deadline for achieving the goal. The control unit 71 selects one of the methods in response to a selection operation performed on the operation receiving unit (S8). The selected method is sent to the electronic device 4, where it is stored in the practice information 433 along with information about the final goal and deadline. If the user finds any of the listed methods difficult to implement, the user may perform an operation to return the process to S5 and change the selection to a lower final goal. The control unit 71 then terminates the method setting process.

[0056] FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing the control procedure of the plan setting process. This plan setting process, which functions as a second setting means in the program of this embodiment, is executed after the method setting process is executed, and after each workout is completed.

[0057] The control unit 71 acquires the current skills and abilities (S11). The control unit 71 determines whether this is the first plan setting process for the set method and final goal, or whether the currently set goal (intermediate goal or final goal) has been achieved (S12).

[0058] If it is determined that this is the first plan setting for the set method and final goal, or that the current goal has been achieved (S12; Y), the control unit 71 determines whether the achieved current goal was the final goal (S13). If it is determined that the current goal was the final goal (S13; Y), the control unit 71 ends the plan setting process. That is, the control unit 71 does not set a new goal or plan. However, if the final goal is set earlier than the deadline, a plan may be set that can maintain the state in which the final goal has been achieved until the deadline.

[0059] If it is determined that the final goal has not been achieved (S13; N), the control unit 71 sets the next intermediate goal based on the current skills and abilities and the final goal (S14). If the intermediate goal is set based on a period, such as a number of days, the intermediate goal may be dynamically set according to the expected improvement in abilities and skills over that number of days. As described above, each intermediate goal does not have to equally divide the improvement in abilities and skills toward the final goal. For example, among multiple skills in a certain intermediate goal, a specific skill may be improved first. Subsequent intermediate goals may aim to improve other skills and abilities. The control unit 71 sets a plan corresponding to the intermediate goal according to the set method (S15). The intermediate goal and plan are transmitted to the electronic device 4 via the communication unit 74. The electronic device 4 stores the received intermediate goal and plan in the practice information 433.

[0060] The control unit 71 transmits the intention and effect of the set intermediate goal to the electronic device 4 or the like, and causes the electronic device 4 to display them on the display unit 45 or the like (S16). This clarifies to the user why he or she is working out to achieve the intermediate goal. The explanation of the intention and effect may be stored in advance in the server device 7 in association with the parameters to be improved in the intermediate goal. The control unit 71 may transmit the contents of the workout plan set up to this point to the electronic device 4 and display a list on the display unit 45 (S17). The control unit 71 sets the practice content for the next workout from the plan content and transmits it to the electronic device 4 (S18). The electronic device 4 stores the received content in the practice information 433 (S18). The control unit 71 then terminates the plan setting process.

[0061] If it is determined in the determination process of step S12 that the plan is not the first one set for the set method and final goal, and that the current goal has not been achieved (S12; N), the control unit 71 proceeds to step S21. In step S21, the control unit 71 calculates the difference between the change in skill or ability estimated from the workouts up to now, particularly the most recent workout, and the change in skill or ability actually observed (S21). The control unit 71 determines whether the calculated difference is equal to or greater than a standard (S22). If the skill or ability includes multiple items, it determines whether the difference in any one of the multiple items is equal to or greater than a standard. Alternatively, a machine learning model or the like may be used to determine whether a combination of differences in multiple items corresponds to a deviation equal to or greater than the standard. In this case, the difference in each item may be dynamically weighted according to the importance of each item.

[0062] If it is determined that the difference is not equal to or greater than the standard (S22; N), the control unit 71 sets the practice content for the next workout according to the plan content for the workout set when the previous goal was achieved. The control unit 71 transmits the set practice content to the electronic device 4 via the communication unit 74, and in the electronic device 4, the control unit 41 stores the received content in the practice information 433 (S24). The control unit 71 then terminates the plan setting process. If it is determined that the difference is equal to or greater than the standard (S22; Y), the control unit 71 adjusts the practice content of the workout that is normally set by making changes according to the difference (S23). That is, the control unit 71 changes the plan content to compensate for delays in ability improvement and skill acquisition. Note that the content of this change may be determined through intervention of an assist process, which will be described later. The changed practice content is stored in the practice information 433. The control unit 71 then terminates the plan setting process. The processes of the method setting means and plan setting means correspond to the setting means of this embodiment.

[0063] In each workout, the user is guided according to the plan generated as described above, and the user is informed of the movements he or she should make.

[0064] FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing a control procedure of the advice control process. This advice control process is initiated when the user is about to perform a workout.

[0065] The control unit 71 acquires the training details for the current workout (S31). The control unit 71 outputs the acquired training details and their objectives (S32). The output destination may be the display unit 45 of the electronic device 4, or the measurement device 1 via the communication units 74, 44, assuming display on the measurement device 1. Some of the output sentences may be a combination of standard phrases and content. Alternatively, the output sentences may be associated with the training details and stored in the storage unit 73 in advance. When the training details are set, the electronic device 4 may acquire the training details from the server device 7 and display them. Note that if the training details were set at the end of the previous workout, the set training details may be changed depending on the weather and physical condition at the time of the current workout. This change may be made, for example, by moving up the training details that were scheduled to be set for the next workout or later. Alternatively, the training details may be reduced if the user's physical condition is not optimal.

[0066] The control unit 71 outputs advice for achieving the goal (S33). The advice output here may include general statements or may focus on the user's identified problems and weaknesses. For relatively long pieces of advice, a machine learning model may be used to generate more natural sentences. The machine learning model may use, for example, a deep learning transformer. This facilitates the adoption of a more natural style of writing and slightly different wording for each comment, even if the content is the same. This reduces the tendency for users receiving the comments to neglect the comments and makes it easier for users to intuitively grasp how to solve the problem using a particular wording. After that, when the workout begins, measurement results are sequentially obtained by the measurement device 1. The control unit 11 of the measurement device 1 or the control unit 41 of the electronic device 4 may detect low-level parameters during the workout based on the measurement results and the index data 132, and output advice corresponding to the detected content. The wording of the advice to be output may be sequentially obtained from the server device 7, or the content to be output may be previously obtained from the server device 7 by the measurement device 1 or the electronic device 4. When the electronic device 4 is constantly connected to the measurement device 1, the measurement data may be transmitted from the measurement device 1 to the electronic device 4 in real time or at regular intervals. If the communication connection is interrupted during a workout, the measurement results are transmitted to the electronic device 4 all at once after the workout is completed. The measurement results may not be the measurement data measured by the measurement device 1 itself, but may be converted into the above-mentioned parameter values. When the workout is completed, the workout is analyzed based on the obtained parameter values, etc. The control unit 71 acquires the analysis results from the electronic device 4 (S34). Alternatively, the control unit 71 may acquire the parameter values, etc. from the electronic device 4 and analyze them in the server device 7. The acquired analysis results are stored in the database 732. The analysis results are also stored in the measurement database 432 in the electronic device 4.

[0067] The control unit 71 acquires the progress status of the method and plan based on the analysis results, and transmits the acquired content to the electronic device 4 to display on the display unit 45 of the electronic device 4 (S35). The electronic device 4 adds the acquired progress status to the progress data 434 and stores it. The progress data 434 may also be transmitted to the measurement device 1 and stored in the history data 133. The control unit 71 re-displays the content of the advice that was displayed before the start of the workout (S36). The control unit 71 determines whether the currently set goal has been achieved (S37).

[0068] If it is determined that the goal has been achieved (S37; Y), the control unit 71 transmits to the electronic device 4 the indicators that have improved as a result of the achievement, along with a message congratulating the user on the achievement, and causes the display unit 45 to display them (S38). Then, the processing of the control unit 71 proceeds to step S40. If it is determined that the goal has not been achieved (S37; N), the control unit 71 transmits to the electronic device 4 the indicators that have not improved or that are at a low level, along with a message congratulating the user on completing the workout, and causes the display unit 45 to display them (S39). The control unit 71 also causes the display unit 45 of the electronic device 4 to display advice (counsel) for improving these indicators. Then, the processing of the control unit 71 proceeds to step S40.

[0069] In process S40, the control unit 71 acquires the practice content for the next workout obtained by the plan setting process executed at the end of the workout (S40). The control unit 71 outputs the acquired skills, the skills to be acquired in the future, and the next practice content to the electronic device 4 and displays them on the display unit 45 (S41). Then, the control unit 71 ends the advice control process.

[0070] 8 is a flowchart showing the control procedure of the advice output control process executed by the measurement device 1. This advice output control process is executed in real time during workout measurement by the measurement device 1. That is, it is executed between steps S33 and S34 of the advice control process described above.

[0071] The control unit 11 starts a parameter detection process in real time in accordance with measurements by the measurement unit 18 and the positioning operation unit 19 (S61). The control unit 11 identifies advice according to the parameters obtained as a result of the process (S62). The control unit 11 causes the announcing operation unit 17 to output the advice by voice (S63). The voice output may be performed by wireless earphones or the like by outputting a signal via the communication unit 15, as described above. The advice output here may include content related to movement, posture, etc., or content related to speed, pitch, stride, etc.

[0072] If there is no particular advice to be given, the control unit 11 may set "no advice" in step S62 and skip step S63. The control unit 11 determines whether or not the input and processing of real-time measurement data has been completed (S64). If it is determined that the input and processing of measurement data has not been completed (S64; N), the control unit 11 returns to step S61. If it is determined that the input and processing of measurement data has been completed (S64; Y), the control unit 11 ends the advice output control process.

[0073] Next, the conditions for intervention of the assist process will be described. FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of intervention in the assist process.

[0074] When setting a method, a user may not always understand the optimal final goal or method for themselves. In such cases, information about the choices and results of other users with similar profiles and levels can be provided to the user as assistance information. Appropriate criteria may be established for determining whether a user's level is close to the user's. For example, the difference between a combination of multiple parameters may be expressed as Euclidean distance in a multidimensional space. Other users with profiles or levels for which the Euclidean distance is less than a reference value may be determined to be users who are close to the user within the reference range. A distribution of selection trends indicating the choices made by the other users, or a distribution of achievement status indicating the degree to which users achieved the goal selected through vicariously experiencing the goal, may be output. Alternatively, a message such as, "The final goal that runners with a similar level to you can currently achieve with 80% or more certainty is XX" may be output.

[0075] Furthermore, when a plan is set, assistance information can be provided to the user, including information on how long it took other users at the same level to achieve their intermediate goals and the achievement rate of the intermediate goals. Intermediate goals may contain content that appears difficult at first glance. However, plans based on proven methods often do not necessarily have a low achievement rate. Therefore, providing information such as the achievement rate and the period required to achieve the goal can help alleviate a decline in motivation. Furthermore, based on the user's past rate of improvement in ability, it is possible to estimate to some extent the possibility of achieving the goal and the period required to achieve it, depending on the individual's situation. By presenting this information to the user, the user is made to believe that the goal is achievable, increasing their sense of self-efficacy, and the user can also prepare for the specific period until the intermediate goal is achieved.

[0076] On the other hand, as described above, depending on the user, the improvement in ability or skill acquisition resulting from the workout according to the set plan may not progress as expected. In such cases, the plan may be modified depending on the degree of deviation from the expectations obtained from the practice information 433 and progress data 434. The modification may be to compensate for the delay and encourage goal achievement, or to accept the delay and relax the intermediate goal to prevent a decrease in motivation to practice due to the presentation of practice content that exceeds the user's desired level. The latter modification may affect the achievement of the final goal. Therefore, the timing and pattern of information provision may be appropriately controlled so as not to ultimately decrease the user's motivation to improve their ability, including the possibility of changing the final goal. In this case, the user may also be presented with the percentage of times other users fell behind in the past and the percentage of times they subsequently made a comeback. For example, a message such as, "The probability that runners at a level similar to your current level will achieve their final goal is approximately 80%" may be displayed to maintain and improve the user's motivation.

[0077] Furthermore, in advice control for individual workouts, the achievement rate of users at the same level may also be displayed when the purpose and effect of the current content is displayed. Furthermore, the correlation between the achievement rate of the current content and the achievement rate of the next practice may also be displayed. Small details such as individual practice content may not necessarily directly lead to improved performance. By displaying the relationship between the achievement rate of such practice content and the next practice content, the user's motivation to achieve their goals can be increased. The output control operations of the above-described processes S32, S33, S38, S39, S41, etc., and the output contents of the assist processes correspond to the output operations and output means of this embodiment.

[0078] [Other embodiments] In the above, exercise, particularly running, has been described as an example of an activity to be supported for goal achievement, but this is not limited to this. Other exercises, such as cycling, swimming, trail running, walking, etc., may also be used, or activities other than exercise. For example, it may be used for goal achievement planning for learning. It is preferable that the learning status be easily monitored as a type of learning. Therefore, examples of learning that can be easily monitored include learning basic kanji, learning words, phrases, and proverbs, calculation learning involving basic formula transformations, and other rote memorization learning. Calculation learning may include fill-in-the-blank answers for intermediate steps, which serve both to guide understanding and to identify areas where comprehension is problematic.

[0079] In this case, the information output system 100 does not need to include the measuring device 1. Instead, the electronic device 4 may store an online learning app that provides online explanations and study questions and allows the operation reception unit 46 to identify the content of the user's answers. The operation reception unit 46 may have an external touchpad, a touch pen, or the like.

[0080] For example, in arithmetic or mathematics calculations, the unit on which calculation learning should be prioritized and the final goal of the applied level related to formula transformation may be determined based on the level of understanding and proficiency information for each field (unit) and information on the test date, etc. Accordingly, calculation problems of multiple levels and patterns in the determined unit are sequentially determined as targets for setting plans.

[0081] Advice corresponding to incorrect answer patterns in the calculation practice for each intermediate goal may be inserted by the assist process. Also, partial hints may be displayed for answer patterns with low comprehension.

[0082] In this case, the assist process may also provide the user with the correct answer rate for users at the same level, the goal achievement rate as a result of learning using the same method, and so on.

[0083] Other non-exercise activities may include, for example, board games such as shogi and go. In particular, when an activity is performed by operating an electronic device and the activity can be quantitatively evaluated, the information output method of the present disclosure may be suitably applied. The information output method of the present disclosure may also be applied to training for human resource development in the workplace.

[0084] As described above, the information output method of this embodiment includes the following steps: (1) a setting operation is performed to set a goal for a certain activity for the user and a plan for achieving the goal; (2) an output operation is performed to output instructions related to the activity in accordance with the set plan and the user's situation. The setting operation includes the following steps: (1a) a first setting operation to set a final goal for the activity and a policy for achieving the final goal; (1b) a second setting operation to set intermediate goals between the user's initial situation at the time of setting the final goal and the final goal, and a plan for achieving the intermediate goals based on the policy. In the output operation, instructions corresponding to the plan and the user's situation are output for each set intermediate goal. This information output method not only provides advice corresponding to each situation, but also outputs advice corresponding to changes in the user's situation and progress within the plan. This can deepen the user's understanding of the plan for achieving the goal and more efficiently support the user's ability improvement. Furthermore, by setting more detailed intermediate goals and plans for achieving the intermediate goals based on the overall guideline for achieving the goal, the user's sense of goal achievement is enhanced and the user's motivation for achieving the goal is improved. Furthermore, the user can grasp their progress toward achieving the goal in more detail.

[0085] In addition, the first setting operation may set a selectable goal range based on a target time required to achieve the final goal, and the final goal may be set based on the user's selection. A deadline for achieving a goal is often set. Setting the final goal based on such a deadline allows the user to appropriately maintain motivation within a range of goals that the user can achieve. As a result, the information output method of this embodiment can support the user in improving their abilities and acquiring skills toward the final goal.

[0086] The goal range may also be determined based on information about past final goal achievers whose initial conditions were close to the user's initial condition within the reference range. If the goal has been achieved by others at the same level in the past, it is assumed that the user has a realistic chance of achieving it. Furthermore, since the user can recognize that the goal is realistically achievable, the user is more likely to actively engage in workouts. Therefore, this information output method can more effectively support the user in achieving the final goal.

[0087] In addition, in the first setting operation, a user may select from a selection of policies stored in advance in association with the final goal. There are a variety of workout methods available depending on the type of activity and the target of improvement for each final goal. By selecting and registering a policy that has already proven successful to a certain extent, the user can work out with confidence in the proposed policy and plan. As a result, the possibility of achieving the final goal can be further improved.

[0088] In addition, in the second setting operation, multiple intermediate goals may be set. By dividing the steps up to the final goal into smaller sections and setting them to a certain extent, the intervals at which the user sets intermediate goals can be shortened. Therefore, this information output method further increases the user's motivation to achieve their goals, making it easier to guide them to achieve their final goal.

[0089] Furthermore, in the second setting operation, when the user achieves an intermediate goal, the next goal and a plan for achieving that next goal may be set. By not fixing the intermediate goal and the plan for achieving that intermediate goal from the beginning, but instead determining the next intermediate goal and its plan after the intermediate goal is achieved, this information output method allows for more flexible response. Therefore, by creating a plan according to the individual progress of the user, it is possible to further reduce the chance of the user dropping out before reaching the final goal.

[0090] Furthermore, in the second setting operation, when the next goal is set, an explanation of the purpose and effect of the plan corresponding to the next goal may be output. When multiple intermediate goals are set up until the final goal, the contribution of the intermediate goals to improving performance at the final goal may differ among them. In particular, some intermediate goals may not directly contribute to improving performance at the final goal. In such cases, by explaining the purpose and effect of each intermediate goal in advance, this information output method can reduce the user's anxiety and more reliably encourage the user to engage in the workout.

[0091] The information output method of this embodiment may also estimate changes in the user's condition in response to the activity and adjust the goal plan based on the difference between the magnitude of the estimated change and the magnitude of the actual change due to the activity. Training plans based on each method include expected results. However, depending on the user's profile, the generally expected results may not be fully achieved. In such cases, the information output method may compensate for the difference by increasing the amount or intensity of the workout, or conversely, by reducing the quality or quantity of the workout without overexerting oneself. This allows the information output method to more effectively support the user in achieving their goals by creating plans tailored to each individual user.

[0092] Furthermore, criteria for a plurality of indicators relating to activities may be set according to the user's situation, and if the indicator relating to the user's situation is at a lower level than the criteria, advice relating to improvements in points of interest may be output. In this way, the present information output method may also be used in conjunction with the conventional sequential output of advice. Furthermore, such advice may also include content that takes into account the progress of the user toward their goal. Therefore, the present information output method can appropriately provide the user with the necessary information and support the user in achieving their goal.

[0093] Furthermore, when the information processing method of this embodiment receives a user's selection for setting a final goal or method, it may output information on the selection trends and final goal achievement status of past participants who performed activities in conditions similar to the user's condition within a reference range. There are cases where the user does not necessarily understand what final goal to set for their own abilities and what approach to take when working out. In such cases, the user's selection can be effectively supported by presenting the user with information on past settings of people at the same level and the achievement status of the final goal according to the settings.

[0094] The server device 7, which is an information output device according to this embodiment, includes a control unit 71. The control unit 71 performs a setting operation to set a goal for a certain activity for the user and a policy and plan for achieving the goal. The control unit 71 then performs an output operation to output instructions related to the activity according to the set plan and the user's situation. The control unit 71 performs the following two setting operations: (1a) a first setting operation to set a final goal for the activity and a policy for achieving the final goal; and (1b) a second setting operation to set intermediate goals between the user's initial situation at the time of setting the final goal and the final goal, and a plan for achieving the intermediate goals based on the policy. In the output operation, the control unit 71 outputs instructions according to the plan and the user's situation for each set intermediate goal. The server device 7 can not only provide the user with advice corresponding to each situation, but also output advice according to changes in the user's situation and progress within the plan toward the goal. Therefore, the server device 7 can deepen the user's understanding of the plan for achieving the user's goal and more efficiently support the user's ability improvement.

[0095] Furthermore, the program 731 of this embodiment allows a computer such as the server device 7 to easily execute the processes relating to the information output method in a software manner.

[0096] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and various modifications are possible. For example, in the above example, intermediate goals are set in addition to the final goal, and plans are established for each goal, but the process of setting one plan for the final goal may be executed in parallel with the advice process. Conversely, sub-goals may be set by further dividing the intermediate goal, and more detailed sub-plans may be established.

[0097] Furthermore, the above-described assist process does not have to be executed by interrupting each of the method setting process, the plan setting process, and the advice control process. The content of the assist process may be included in each of the method setting process, the plan setting process, and the advice control process.

[0098] Furthermore, the assist process in the above embodiment is a process of presenting statistical information based mainly on the past measurement results of other users, but is not limited to this.

[0099] Changes to the set plan or training schedule do not have to be determined based on the difference between the improvement in skills or abilities and the prediction for each session, but may be determined based on the trend of improvement over multiple workouts.

[0100] In addition, although the plan was set each time an intermediate goal was achieved, this is not limited to this. Plans for all stages may be set initially. Even in this case, each plan and training schedule may be changed or adjusted depending on the actual degree of improvement in the user's ability.

[0101] In the above example, the target time is set as a fixed value and the final goal is selected and determined, but this is not limiting. A range may be set for the set target time. Furthermore, methods that slightly exceed the set target time may be included in the selectable plans.

[0102] In the above embodiment, the control unit 71 of the server device 7 executes the advice control process before and after the workout, and the control unit 11 of the measurement device 1 executes the advice output control process during the workout, but this is not limited to this. Providing advice to the user during workout (while exercising or studying) may also be executed by the control unit 41 of the electronic device 4.

[0103] Furthermore, the operation of the server device 7 as the information output device may be distributed and executed by a plurality of server devices 7, or a plurality of electronic devices such as the server device 7 and the electronic device 4. In particular, when communication is not always connected between a device owned by a user, such as the electronic device 4, and the server device 7, some of the processing may be appropriately distributed to the electronic device 4. This allows necessary information to be provided to the user in a timely manner.

[0104] In the above description, the storage unit 73, which is composed of a nonvolatile memory such as an HDD or flash memory, has been used as an example of a computer-readable medium for storing the program 731 related to the goal achievement support of the present invention, but is not limited to this. Other computer-readable media may include other nonvolatile memories such as MRAM, and portable recording media such as CD-ROMs and DVD discs. Furthermore, a carrier wave may also be used as a medium for providing the program data related to the present invention via a communication line. In addition, the specific configurations, contents and procedures of the processing operations, etc. shown in the above embodiments can be modified as appropriate without departing from the spirit of the present invention. The scope of the present invention includes the scope of the invention described in the claims and its equivalents. [Explanation of symbols]

[0105] 1 measuring device, 11 control unit, 12 RAM, 13 memory unit, 131 program, 132 index data, 133 history data, 14 communication unit, 15 display unit, 16 operation reception unit, 17 notification operation unit, 18 measurement unit, 19 positioning operation unit, 4 electronic device, 41 control unit, 42 RAM, 43 memory unit, 431 program, 432 measurement database, 433 practice information, 434 progress data, 44 communication unit, 45 display unit, 46 operation reception unit, 47 notification operation unit, 7 server device, 71 control unit, 72 RAM, 73 memory unit, 731 program, 732 database, 74 communication unit, 75 display unit, 76 operation reception unit, 100 information output system

Claims

1. performing a setting operation for setting a goal for a certain activity of the user and a policy and plan for achieving the goal; performing an output operation to output instructions related to the activity according to the set plan and the user's situation; In the setting operation, a first setting operation for setting a final goal for the activity and a policy for achieving the final goal; a second setting operation for setting an intermediate goal between the initial state of the user at the time of setting the final goal and the final goal, and a plan for achieving the intermediate goal based on the policy; and In the output operation, the instruction content according to the plan and the user's situation is output for each intermediate goal. Information output method.

2. In the first setting operation, a selectable target range is set based on a target time required to achieve a final target, and the final target is set based on a selection by the user.

2. The information output method according to claim 1.

3. 3. The information output method according to claim 2, wherein the target range is determined based on information about past final goal achievers whose initial situations were close to the initial situation of the user within a reference range.

4. In the first setting operation, the policy is selected from options of the policy that are associated with the final goal and stored in advance.

2. The information output method according to claim 1.

5. In the second setting operation, a plurality of intermediate targets are set.

2. The information output method according to claim 1.

6. In the second setting operation, when the user achieves the intermediate goal, a next goal and the plan for achieving the next goal are set.

2. The information output method according to claim 1.

7. 7. The information output method according to claim 6, wherein, in the second setting operation, when the next goal is set, an explanation of the intention and effect of the plan corresponding to the next goal is output.

8. Estimating a change in the user's situation relative to the activity; adjusting the plan relative to the goal based on a difference between the estimated magnitude of the change and the actual magnitude of the change due to the activity; 2. The information output method according to claim 1.

9. determining standards for a plurality of indicators related to the activity in accordance with the situation of the user, and if the indicators related to the situation of the user are at a lower level than the standards, outputting advice related to improving the indicators; 2. The information output method according to claim 1.

10. An information output method according to claim 2 or 4, wherein when the user's selection is received, information on the selection tendencies of past performers of the activity that were close to the user's situation within a reference range and the achievement status of the final goal is output.

11. performing a setting operation for setting a goal for a certain activity of the user and a policy and plan for achieving the goal; performing an output operation to output instructions related to the activity according to the set plan and the user's situation; A control unit is provided, The control unit In the setting operation, a first setting operation for setting a final goal for the activity and a policy for achieving the final goal; a second setting operation for setting an intermediate goal between the initial state of the user at the time of setting the final goal and the final goal, and a plan for achieving the intermediate goal based on the policy; and In the output operation, the instruction content according to the plan and the user's situation is output for each intermediate goal. Information output device.

12. Computer, a setting means for setting a goal for a certain activity of the user and a policy and plan for achieving the goal; an output means for outputting instructions relating to the activity according to the set plan and the user's situation; It functions as The setting means a first setting means for setting a final goal for the activity and a policy for achieving the final goal; a second setting means for setting an intermediate goal between the initial state of the user at the time of setting the final goal and the final goal, and a plan for achieving the intermediate goal based on the policy; Including, the output means outputs the instruction content according to the plan and the user's situation for each intermediate goal. program.

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