Information processing method, information processing device, and program recording medium

Abstract

The information processing method establishes a correspondence between device information related to a device and operation information representing the contents of multiple first operations performed on the device (step S101); based on the contents of the multiple first operations represented by the operation information, decides whether to set an image prompted to the user as a candidate image or an input bar image, wherein the candidate image is an image including a candidate of a second operation to be performed on the device, and the input bar image is an image of an input bar including the contents of the second operation (step S300); and controls the prompting of the image to the user in accordance with the decision (step S400).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an information processing method, an information processing device, and a program recording medium. Background Art

[0002] In the past, a device operation support service providing system has been proposed, which analyzes the device operation information of the user, predicts the device operation of the user based on the analysis result, and provides device operation support to the user when providing content based on the prediction result (for example, refer to Patent Document 1).

[0003] Prior Art Literature

[0004] Patent Literature

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2004-180129 Summary of the invention

[0006] Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0007] However, since device operation tendencies vary among users, it may be difficult to present appropriate content to the user.

[0008] The present disclosure provides an information processing method and the like for presenting appropriate content to a user.

[0009] Means for solving problems

[0010] The information processing method disclosed in the present invention is: obtaining device information related to a device and operation information representing the contents of multiple first operations performed on the device in a corresponding manner; deciding whether to set an image prompted to a user as a candidate image or an input bar image based on the contents of the multiple first operations represented by the operation information, the candidate image being an image including a candidate of a second operation to be performed on the device, and the input bar image being an image of an input bar including the contents of the second operation; and controlling in accordance with the decision to prompt the image to the user.

[0011] Effects of the Invention

[0012] According to the information processing method of the present disclosure, it is possible to present appropriate presentation content to the user. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] Figure 1 This is a configuration diagram of the device operation setting proposal system in Implementation Example 1.

[0014] Figure 2 This is a block diagram of the device operation setting proposal system in Implementation Example 1.

[0015] Figure 3AThis is a first explanatory diagram showing the data structure of the device operation setting proposal system in the first embodiment.

[0016] Figure 3B This is a second explanatory diagram showing the data structure of the device operation setting proposal system in the first embodiment.

[0017] Figure 3C This is a third explanatory diagram showing the data structure of the device operation setting proposal system in the first embodiment.

[0018] Figure 4 This is a sequence diagram of the device operation setting proposal system in Implementation Example 1.

[0019] Figure 5 This is a flowchart showing the processing performed by the server when analyzing a log in the first embodiment.

[0020] Figure 6 This is a flowchart showing the processing performed by the server in Implementation Example 1 when generating a proposal.

[0021] Figure 7 This is a flowchart showing the processing performed by the terminal when displaying a proposal in Implementation Example 1.

[0022] Fig. 8A This is a first explanatory diagram showing the data structure of the device operation setting proposal system in the second embodiment.

[0023] Figure 8B This is a second explanatory diagram showing the data structure of the device operation setting proposal system in the second embodiment.

[0024] Figure 8C This is a third explanatory diagram showing the data structure of the device operation setting proposal system in the second embodiment.

[0025] Fig. 9 This is a flowchart showing the processing performed by the device operation setting proposal system in the second embodiment when analyzing a log.

[0026] Fig.10 This is a flowchart showing the processing of the device operation setting proposal system in the second embodiment when generating a proposal.

[0027] Fig.11A This is a first explanatory diagram showing the data structure of the device operation setting proposal system in the third embodiment.

[0028] Fig. 11B This is a second explanatory diagram showing the data structure of the device operation setting proposal system in the third embodiment.

[0029] Fig. 11CThis is a third explanatory diagram showing the data structure of the device operation setting proposal system in the third embodiment.

[0030] Fig.11D This is a fourth explanatory diagram showing the data structure of the device operation setting proposal system in the third embodiment.

[0031] Fig.12 This is a flowchart showing the processing of the device operation setting proposal system in the third embodiment when generating a proposal.

[0032] Fig.13 This is a sequence diagram of the device operation setting proposal system in Implementation Example 4.

[0033] Fig.14A This is a first explanatory diagram showing the data structure of the device operation setting proposal system in the fourth embodiment.

[0034] Fig. 14B This is a second explanatory diagram showing the data structure of the device operation setting proposal system in the fourth embodiment.

[0035] Fig. 14C This is a third explanatory diagram showing the data structure of the device operation setting proposal system in the fourth embodiment.

[0036] Fig.14D This is a fourth explanatory diagram showing the data structure of the device operation setting proposal system in the fourth embodiment.

[0037] Fig.14E This is a fifth explanatory diagram showing the data structure of the device operation setting proposal system in the fourth embodiment.

[0038] Fig.15 This is a flowchart showing the processing of the device operation setting proposal system in the fourth embodiment when generating a proposal.

[0039] Fig.16 This is a system configuration diagram of the device operation setting proposal system in Implementation Example 5.

[0040] Fig.17 This is a block diagram of the device operation setting proposal system in Implementation Example 5.

[0041] Fig.18 This is a sequence diagram of the device operation setting proposal system in Implementation Example 5.

[0042] Fig.19 This is a system configuration diagram of the device operation setting proposal system in Implementation Example 6.

[0043] Fig. 20 This is an explanatory diagram showing a sample of a proposal performed by the device operation setting proposal system in Embodiments 1 to 6.

[0044] Fig.21 It is an explanatory diagram of Modification 1 of Embodiments 1 to 6.

[0045] Fig. 22 This is an explanatory diagram of Modification 2 of Embodiments 1 to 6.

[0046] Fig.23A This is a first explanatory diagram of Modification 3 of Embodiments 1 to 6.

[0047] Fig. 23B This is a second explanatory diagram of Modification 3 of Embodiments 1 to 6.

[0048] Fig.23C This is a third explanatory diagram of Modification 3 of Embodiments 1 to 6.

[0049] Fig.23D This is a fourth explanatory diagram of Modification 3 of Embodiments 1 to 6.

[0050] Fig.23E This is a fifth explanatory diagram of Modification 3 of Embodiments 1 to 6.

[0051] Fig.24 This is a sixth explanatory diagram of Modification 3 of Embodiments 1 to 6.

[0052] Fig.25 This is a first explanatory diagram of Modification 4 of Embodiments 1 to 6.

[0053] Fig.26 This is a second explanatory diagram of Modification 4 of Embodiments 1 to 6.

[0054] Fig. 27 This is an explanatory diagram of a first example of an image displayed on a terminal in Embodiments 1 to 6.

[0055] Fig.28 This is an explanatory diagram of a second example of an image displayed on a terminal in Embodiments 1 to 6.

[0056] Fig.29 This is an explanatory diagram of a third example of an image displayed on a terminal in Embodiments 1 to 6.

[0057] Fig.30 This is an explanatory diagram of a fourth example of an image displayed on a terminal in Embodiments 1 to 6.

[0058] Fig.31 This is an explanatory diagram of a fifth example of an image displayed on a terminal in Embodiments 1 to 6.

[0059] Fig.32 This is an explanatory diagram of a sixth example of an image displayed on a terminal in Embodiments 1 to 6. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0060] The information processing method involved in the present disclosure is: device information related to a device and operation information representing the content of multiple first operations performed on the device are obtained in correspondence; based on the content of the multiple first operations represented by the operation information, it is decided whether to set an image prompted to the user as a candidate image or an input bar image, the candidate image is an image that includes a candidate of a second operation to be performed on the device, and the input bar image is an image of an input bar that includes the content of the second operation; in accordance with the decision, control is performed to prompt the image to the user.

[0061] In the above manner, the information processing method determines whether to prompt the user with a candidate image or an input field image based on the multiple operations performed on the device in the past, and then performs the prompt. The multiple operations performed on the device in the past reflect the tendency of the device operation performed by the user, so the above information processing method can prompt the user with an appropriate image corresponding to the tendency of the device operation performed by the user. In this way, the information processing method can prompt the user with appropriate prompt content.

[0062] For example, the candidate image may be a first image that includes a single candidate of the second operation, or a second image that includes multiple candidates of the second operation. In the decision, when it is decided to prompt the candidate image, it is further determined whether to prompt the first image as the candidate image or to prompt the second image as the candidate image based on the contents of the multiple first operations represented by the operation information. In the control, when the candidate image is prompted, control is performed to prompt the first image or the second image as the candidate image in accordance with the decision.

[0063] In the above manner, the information processing method determines whether to set the candidate images to include a single candidate image or to include multiple candidate images based on the multiple operations performed on the device in the past, and then prompts. The multiple operations performed on the device in the past reflect the tendency of the device operation performed by the user, so the above information processing method can prompt the user with an appropriate image corresponding to the tendency of the device operation performed by the user. In this way, the information processing method can prompt the user with more appropriate prompt content.

[0064] For example, first information related to the conditions in which the multiple first operations were performed and second information related to the conditions in which the second operation is to be performed may be further obtained, and in the determination, the first information and the second information are compared to determine the image.

[0065] In the above manner, the information processing method can further use the comparison between the conditions when the device was operated multiple times in the past and the conditions when the operation is to be performed in the future to prompt the user with an appropriate image corresponding to the tendency of the device operation performed by the user. Thus, the information processing method can also consider the conditions during the operation and prompt the user with more appropriate prompt content.

[0066] For example, further, a time when a reservation for the device can be made is obtained, and when the candidate image is displayed, candidates for the second operation that are outside the time when a reservation for the device can be made are excluded from the candidates for the second operation, and the candidate image including the second operation retained after exclusion is displayed.

[0067] In this way, the information processing method can further use the time when the device can be reserved to present the user with an appropriate image corresponding to the user's tendency to operate the device. Thus, the information processing method can also consider the time when the device can be reserved and present the user with more appropriate content.

[0068] For example, the determination may be made according to the characteristics of a UI (User Interface) of a device presenting the image.

[0069] In this way, the information processing method can also use the characteristics of the UI of the device to prompt the user with an appropriate image corresponding to the tendency of the user to operate the device. Thus, the information processing method can also consider the characteristics of the UI of the device and prompt the user with more appropriate prompt content.

[0070] The information processing device involved in the present disclosure includes a processor and a memory, and the processor uses the memory to: establish a correspondence between device information related to the device and operation information representing the content of multiple first operations performed on the device; determine whether to set an image prompted to the user as a candidate image or an input bar image based on the content of the multiple first operations represented by the operation information, the candidate image is an image that includes a candidate of a second operation to be performed on the device, and the input bar image is an image of an input bar that includes the content of the second operation; and in accordance with the decision, control is performed to prompt the image to the user.

[0071] Through the above-mentioned manner, the same effect as the above-mentioned information processing method is achieved.

[0072] The program recording medium according to the present disclosure causes a computer to execute the above-mentioned information processing method.

[0073] Through the above-mentioned manner, the same effect as the above-mentioned information processing method is achieved.

[0074] Hereinafter, the embodiments are described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings as appropriate. In which, an overly detailed description is sometimes omitted. For example, a detailed description of a known matter or a repeated description of a substantially identical structure is sometimes omitted. This is to avoid the following description from becoming too lengthy so that it is easy for those skilled in the art to understand.

[0075] In addition, the inventor(s) provide the drawings and the following descriptions for those skilled in the art to fully understand the present disclosure, and the inventor(s) do not intend to limit the subject matter described in the claims thereby.

[0076] (Implementation Method 1)

[0077] In this embodiment, an information processing method and an information processing system for presenting appropriate presentation content to a user are described. The above-mentioned information processing system is also referred to as a device operation setting proposal system 1.

[0078] Figure 1 1 is a diagram schematically showing the overall configuration of a facility operation setting proposal system 1 according to the present embodiment.

[0079] like Figure 1 As shown, the device operation setting proposal system 1 includes a device 100 , a server 200 , and a terminal 300 , and each of them can communicate via a network.

[0080] The terminal 300 displays proposed operation setting information proposed to the user. The operation setting information is information for setting an operation for causing the device 100 to perform a process. The terminal 300 may also be referred to as a display terminal. The terminal 300 is, for example, a smartphone, a tablet terminal, a computer, a smart speaker, and the like.

[0081] The server 200 collects logs and makes proposals for operation setting information. The server 200 can also be called an information management server. The server 200 is a computer and can be in the cloud or on the local end.

[0082] The device 100 is a device that is an operation object of the user, and performs processing according to the operation setting information. The device 100 is, for example, a washing machine, an autonomous mobile vacuum cleaner, or a microwave oven. In the case where the device 100 is a washing machine, the above processing includes washing or drying processing in various courses. In the case where the device 100 is an autonomous mobile vacuum cleaner, the above processing includes cleaning processing in various mobile modes. In the case where the device 100 is a microwave oven, the above processing includes heating or cooking processing of food in various modes.

[0083] Figure 2 This is a block diagram of the device operation setting proposal system 1 in this embodiment.

[0084] like Figure 2 As shown, the device 100 includes an input unit 101 , a display unit 102 , a setting receiving unit 103 , a device control unit 104 , and a log sending unit 105 .

[0085] The input unit 101 receives an operation from a user on the device 100. The input unit 101 includes, for example, buttons, a remote controller, or a touch panel.

[0086] The display unit 102 displays the state of the device 100. The display unit 102 is assumed to be visually recognized by the user. The display unit 102 includes, for example, a lamp or a display.

[0087] The setting receiving unit 103 receives the operation setting information of the device 100 via the network.

[0088] The device control unit 104 executes processing of the device 100 based on the operation setting information received by the input unit 101 or the setting receiving unit 103 .

[0089] The log transmission unit 105 transmits the device operation history indicating the process executed by the device control unit 104 as a log to the log management unit 203 of the server 200 via the network.

[0090] like Figure 2 As shown, the server 200 includes a user management unit 201, a device management unit 202, a log management unit 203, and a proposal management unit 204 as functional units. The functional units of the server 200 can be implemented by executing a predetermined program using a memory (not shown) by a processor (not shown) of the server 200. The server 200 is also called an information processing device.

[0091] The user management unit 201 accumulates and manages user information.

[0092] The device management unit 202 stores and manages device information related to the device 100 in association with the user.

[0093] The log management unit 203 accumulates the device operation information transmitted by the log transmission unit 105 of the device 100 for each device 100 .

[0094] The proposal management unit 204 analyzes the user's device operation tendency based on the device operation information of each device 100 accumulated by the log management unit 203, and classifies the user into groups. In addition, the proposal management unit 204 generates proposal information related to appropriate device operation settings based on the above classification, and sends the generated proposal information to the terminal 300.

[0095] like Figure 2As shown, the terminal 300 includes a proposal receiving unit 301 , a display unit 302 , an input unit 303 , and a setting sending unit 304 .

[0096] The proposal receiving unit 301 receives proposal information transmitted from the proposal management unit 204 of the server 200 and classification information indicating groups classified based on the user's device operation tendency.

[0097] The display unit 302 determines a proposal method based on the user classification information received by the proposal receiving unit 301, and presents proposal information using the determined proposal method. The display unit 302 includes a display and the like.

[0098] The input unit 303 receives input of selection information related to device operation settings determined by the user based on the proposal information displayed on the display unit 302 of the terminal 300. The input unit 303 includes, for example, a touch panel.

[0099] The setting transmission unit 304 transmits the selection information inputted by the input unit 303 of the terminal 300 to the device 100 via the network.

[0100] Furthermore, the processing performed by the display unit 302 in the terminal 300 may be other than display, for example, voice, etc., as long as it is a presentation method that can present information to the user.

[0101] Figure 3A , Figure 3B and Figure 3C This is a data structure diagram of the device operation setting proposal system 1 in this embodiment.

[0102] Figure 3A The user classification table shown is used when proposing to classify users, and is used as a table of device usage ratios according to users (see Figure 3B ) analysis results. One entry (i.e., one row) of the user classification table includes: user ID, classification of the user based on device operation tendency, and proposal method corresponding to the above classification. The user classification table includes classifications corresponding to all users who use the device operation setting proposal system 1.

[0103] Figure 3BThe user's device usage ratio table shown is used when analyzing the user's device operation tendency and generating proposals to the user, and is updated regularly based on the device operation history collected from the device 100. An entry included in the user's device usage ratio table includes: the device operation content of each user and the ratio of the device operation content to the total device operation content. In more detail, the device operation content may include a course representing the action category of the device 100, and the time when the device 100 performs the action. The user's device usage ratio table includes the device usage ratio corresponding to all users who use the device operation setting proposal system 1. Figure 3B , a table of device usage ratios for user 1 is shown as an example.

[0104] Figure 3C The proposed data shown to the user is the proposed content prompted to the user, triggered by the proposal request to the server 200, based on the user's device usage ratio table (refer to Figure 3B ) and the user's classification table (refer to Figure 3A ). One item of the proposal data to the user includes the user ID, the proposal method, and the proposal content. In the proposal content, one or more proposals may be included in order from the proposal with the highest proportion of the user's operation content. The proposal data to the user is generated based on the proposal request, so the number of proposals included in the proposal content varies for each user. Figure 3C The proposals include Proposal 1, Proposal 2 and Proposal 3.

[0105] An example of the processing of the device operation setting proposal system 1 in this embodiment will be described below.

[0106] Figure 4 This is a sequence diagram of the device operation setting proposal system 1 in this embodiment. Figure 5 This is a flowchart showing the process of the server 200 in this embodiment when analyzing a log. Figure 6 This is a flowchart showing the processing of the server 200 when generating a proposal in this embodiment. Figure 7 This is a flowchart showing the processing performed by the terminal 300 when displaying a proposal in this embodiment.

[0107] Reference Figure 4 , Figure 5 , Figure 6 and Figure 7 Analysis of the user's device operation tendency is described. Analysis of the user's device operation tendency is a process that is a prerequisite for proposing device operation settings to the user and is performed regularly.

[0108] In step S101, the device 100 sends a log indicating the operation performed by the user to the server 200 via the network at any time. The server 200 receives the log sent from the device 100 to collect the device operation history. The sent log can be used for analysis when proposing operation setting information.

[0109] In step S200, the server 200 classifies the users based on the device operation tendency based on the device operation history collected in step S101. The classification based on the device operation tendency can serve as a basis for the change proposal method.

[0110] Reference Figure 5 The detailed processing included in step S200 will be described.

[0111] In step S201 , the proposal management unit 204 of the server 200 summarizes the operation contents of each device 100 associated with the user in units of possible operations based on the information of the user management unit 201 and the device management unit 202 regarding the device operation history collected in step S101 .

[0112] In step S202, the proposal management unit 204 of the server 200 converts the operation contents of the devices 100 totaled in step S201 into a ratio relative to the operation contents of all devices for each user, and generates a table of device usage ratios (see Figure 3B )save.

[0113] In step S203, the proposal management unit 204 of the server 200 branches the process based on the tendency of the device usage ratio. Specifically, the proposal management unit 204 proceeds to step S204 when the ratio of one type of operation content is significantly high in the tendency of the user's device usage ratio, proceeds to step S205 when the total ratio of multiple types of operation content exceeds 50%, and proceeds to step S206 in other cases.

[0114] In step S204 , the proposal management unit 204 classifies the user into group A.

[0115] In step S205 , the proposal management unit 204 classifies the user into group B.

[0116] In step S206 , the proposal management unit 204 classifies the user into group C.

[0117] In step S207, the proposal management unit 204 uses the classification result of step S204, S205 or S206 as the user classification table (see Figure 3A ) to save. The saved category list is used when displaying proposals.

[0118] In addition, the classification into groups can adopt any method that classifies into two or more groups by using a specific rule or threshold value. In addition, 50% as the threshold value of the ratio when proceeding to step S205 in step S203 is just an example, and the numerical value is not limited to this.

[0119] return Figure 4 After the classification of the user in step S200, in step S102, the terminal 300 sends a proposal request to the server 200. The proposal request is information for requesting proposal data from the terminal 300, and includes at least information that can uniquely identify the user who is using the terminal 300 (also referred to as user information).

[0120] In step S300 , the server 200 executes a process of generating a proposal.

[0121] Reference Figure 6 The detailed processing included in step S300 will be described.

[0122] In step S301, the proposal management unit 204 of the server 200 receives the proposal request sent by the terminal 300 in step S102. The received proposal request includes user information of the user.

[0123] In step S302, the proposal management unit 204 refers to the user's classification table (reference Figure 3A ) to obtain the classification of the user represented by the user information represented by the proposal request.

[0124] In step S303, the proposal management unit 204 refers to the equipment usage ratio table (refer to Figure 3B ), obtain the device operation contents and their proportions of the above-mentioned users, and obtain a specified number (for example, 3) of device operation contents starting from the device operation content with a high proportion.

[0125] In step S304, the proposal management unit 204 uses the user classification and device operation content acquired in step S303 as proposal data to the user (see Figure 3C ) is sent to terminal 300.

[0126] The sending of the user's classification table and proposal data in step S304 is equivalent to Figure 4 Step S103 in .

[0127] return Figure 4 , after generating the proposal in step S300, in step S400, the terminal 300 displays the proposal.

[0128] Reference Figure 7 The detailed processing included in step S400 will be described.

[0129] In step S401 , the proposal receiving unit 301 of the terminal 300 receives the proposal data transmitted by the server 200 in step S103 .

[0130] In step S402, the display unit 302 branches the process according to the classification of the user included in the proposal data received in step S401. Specifically, the display unit 302 proceeds to step S403 when the user is classified into group A, proceeds to step S404 when the user is classified into group B, and proceeds to step S405 when the user is classified into group C.

[0131] In step S403, the display unit 302 displays the proposal information in an alternative manner. The alternative manner is a method of proposing a single option for an operation prompt. When the alternative manner is used for prompting, an operation is accepted from the user as to whether to make the device 100 perform an operation related to the single option prompted. In addition, in step S403, the image displayed by the display unit 302 is one of the candidate images, and more specifically, is equivalent to a first image that includes a single candidate for an operation to be performed on the device 100. In addition, the alternative manner may also be referred to as a decision manner. This is because it determines a single operation to be prompted.

[0132] In step S404, the display unit 302 displays the proposal information in a selection manner. The selection manner is a method of proposing a plurality of options regarding an operation prompt. When the prompt is in a selection manner, an operation is received from the user to make the device 100 perform an operation among the operations involved in the plurality of options prompted. In addition, the image displayed by the display unit 302 in step S404 is one of the candidate images, more specifically, it is equivalent to a second image including a plurality of candidates for the operation to be performed on the device 100.

[0133] In step S405, the display unit 302 displays the proposed information in an input mode. The input mode is a proposed method for prompting an input field for operation. In the input mode, no options are prompted. When prompted in the input mode, an input operation of specific operation contents to be performed on the input field is accepted from the user. In addition, the image displayed by the display unit 302 in step S405 is equivalent to the input field image.

[0134] In step S406, the input unit 303 receives input of operation setting information by the user for the display in step S403, S404 or S405. When receiving the input of the operation setting information, the input unit 303 transmits the operation setting information to the device 100 via the network through the server 200. The device 100 performs processing according to the transmitted operation setting information. The transmission of the operation setting information is equivalent to Figure 4 Step S104 is shown.

[0135] return Figure 4 In step S105, the server 200 receives the operation setting information sent in step S104, and sends a notification indicating receipt to the terminal 300.

[0136] In step S106 , the server 200 transmits the operation setting information received in step S105 to the device 100 .

[0137] In step S500 , the device 100 executes the processing indicated by the device operation setting based on the operation setting information transmitted in step S106 .

[0138] Hereinafter, a specific example will be shown and the processing of the facility operation setting proposal system 1 will be described in detail.

[0139] For example, in Figure 5 When a certain user 1 is classified into group A in step S203, the fact that the user 1 is classified into group A is stored in step S207.

[0140] After executing step S207, Figure 6 In step S301, a proposal request is received as a trigger, and in step S302, a proposal request is received from the user's classification table (refer to Figure 3A ) obtains the situation where user 1 is classified into group A.

[0141] Then, in step S303, the proposal management unit 204 obtains the device usage ratio table of user 1 (see Figure 3B ) obtains three types of equipment usage contents with high equipment operation ratios: "Washing_Trusted Course, 6:00-7:00", "Drying_Trusted Course, 7:00-8:00", and "Washing_Customized Course, 17:00-18:00". In step S304, the proposal management unit 204 associates the user classification obtained in step S302 with the three equipment operation contents obtained in step S303, and uses them as proposal data to the user (refer to Figure 3C ) is sent to terminal 300.

[0142] The terminal 300 obtains the user's classification and the proposed content. Since the user 1 is classified into group A in step S402, the proposed content is displayed in an alternative manner. It is assumed that the user visually recognizes the displayed proposed content, determines the operation content, and inputs it to the terminal 300. The input unit 303 receives the user's input (step S406), and sends the input operation setting information to the device 100, and the device 100 executes the processing.

[0143] In addition, the above description describes a case where the proposal management unit 204 classifies users based on the user's device operation tendency, but the proposal management unit 204 may also classify the devices 100 based on the user's device operation tendency. In this case, the classification table (see Figure 3A ) has a device ID instead of a user ID, and records the classification of the device. The proposal management unit 204 also has the correspondence information between the user and the device 100, and makes proposals related to the device 100 to the user who has established a correspondence with the device 100.

[0144] (Implementation Method 2)

[0145] In the present embodiment, another aspect of an information processing method and an information processing system for presenting appropriate presentation content to a user will be described.

[0146] When a user uses the device 100 , even the same user may have different device usage tendencies depending on the environment or time conditions (specifically, the day of the week, weather, time period, etc.).

[0147] Therefore, in this embodiment, users are classified according to the device operation tendency in each situation, and operation setting information is proposed to the user. More specifically, first information related to situations in which operations were performed multiple times in the past and second information related to situations in which operations are to be performed later are obtained, and the first information is compared with the second information to determine the image to be prompted.

[0148] The data structure, the process of analyzing the log, and the process of generating the proposal in this embodiment are different from those in the first embodiment.

[0149] The following describes a data structure diagram of this embodiment, a process when analyzing a log, and a process when generating a proposal.

[0150] Fig. 8A , Figure 8B and Figure 8C This is a data structure diagram of the device operation setting proposal system 1 in this embodiment.

[0151] Fig. 8A The user classification table shown is used when proposing to classify display methods by environment or time (specifically, day of the week, weather, time period, etc.), as a table of device usage ratios of user 1 (see Figure 8B ) is updated regularly based on the results of the analysis. An entry in the user classification table includes: a user ID, a classification of the user based on the user's device operation tendency, a proposal method corresponding to the above classification, and a condition when the device 100 is used.

[0152] Figure 8BThe device usage ratio table of user 1 shown is used when analyzing the user's device operation tendency and generating proposals to the user, and is updated regularly based on the device operation history collected from the device 100. An entry included in the device usage ratio table of user 1 includes the device operation content and the ratio of the device operation content to the total device operation content for each user. More specifically, the device operation content may include a course representing the action category of the device 100 and the time when the device 100 performs the action. The user's device usage ratio table includes the device usage ratio corresponding to all users who use the device operation setting proposal system 1. Figure 8B As an example of the situation, the device usage ratio is shown when the day of the week is Tuesday.

[0153] Figure 8C The proposed data shown to the user is the proposed content prompted to the user, triggered by the proposal request to the server 200, based on the user's device usage ratio table (refer to Figure 8B ) and the user's classification table (refer to Fig. 8A ) and is generated.

[0154] An example of the processing of the device operation setting proposal system 1 in this embodiment will be described below.

[0155] The undescribed steps are the same as the processing in the first embodiment.

[0156] Fig. 9 This is a flowchart showing the process of the server 200 in this embodiment when analyzing a log. Fig. 9 The processing shown in the figure represents step S200 of the first embodiment (see Figure 4 ) includes detailed processing.

[0157] exist Fig. 9 In step S211 shown, in the proposal management unit 204 of the server 200, regarding the device usage history collected in step S101, based on the information from the user management unit 201 and the device management unit 202, the operation contents of each device 100 associated with the user are summarized in units of possible operations performed by the user.

[0158] In steps S212 to S216 , the proposal management unit 204 classifies the user into group A, B, or C for each situation, similarly to steps S202 to 206 in the first embodiment.

[0159] In step S217, the proposal management unit 204 uses the classification result of step S214, S215 or S216 as a classification table for each user's situation (see Fig. 8A ) to save. The saved category list is used when displaying proposals.

[0160] Fig.10 This is a flowchart showing the process of the facility operation setting proposal system 1 according to the present embodiment when generating a proposal.

[0161] Fig.10 The processing shown represents step S300 of the first embodiment (see Figure 4 ) includes detailed processing.

[0162] In step S311, the proposal management unit 204 of the server 200 receives the proposal request for a certain user transmitted by the terminal 300 in step S102. The received proposal request includes user information of the user and status information indicating a status.

[0163] In step S312, the proposal management unit 204 generates the user's classification table (see Fig. 8A ) and the status information included in the proposal request for the user indicated by the user information indicated by the proposal request. Then, in the user classification table (refer to Fig. 8A ) is included in the conditions, and a classification corresponding to the conditions represented by the condition information included in the proposal request is obtained.

[0164] In step S313, the proposal management unit 204 obtains the device usage ratio table (see Figure 8B ) to obtain user data corresponding to the conditions included in the proposal request.

[0165] In step S314 , the proposal management unit 204 extracts several types of data from the data acquired in step S313 , starting from data with a high rate of device operation.

[0166] In step S315, the proposal management unit 204 generates the user classification and the plurality of device operation contents extracted in step S314 as proposal data to the user (see Figure 8C ) is sent to terminal 300.

[0167] Hereinafter, a specific example will be shown and the processing of the facility operation setting proposal system 1 will be described in detail.

[0168] For example, in Fig. 9 In a case where a certain user 1 is classified into group B on Tuesday in step S211 , the fact that the user 1 is classified into group B is stored in step S217 .

[0169] After executing step S217, Fig.10 In step S311, a proposal request is received as a trigger, and in step S312, a proposal is received from the user's classification table (refer to Fig. 8A) obtains the situation in which user 1 is classified into group B on Tuesday.

[0170] Then, in step S313, the proposal management unit 204 obtains the device usage ratio table of user 1 on Tuesday (refer to Figure 8B In step S314, the proposal management unit 204 calculates the device usage ratio on Tuesday (refer to Figure 8B ), and obtains three types of equipment usage contents with high equipment operation ratios: "Washing_Entrusted Program, 6:00-7:00", "Drying_Entrusted Program, 7:00-8:00", and "Washing_Customized Program, 17:00-18:00". In step S315, the proposal management unit 204 associates the user classification obtained in step S312 with the three equipment operation contents obtained in step S314, and uses them as proposal data to the user (refer to Figure 8C ) is sent to terminal 300.

[0171] (Implementation method 3)

[0172] In the present embodiment, another aspect of an information processing method and an information processing system for presenting appropriate presentation content to a user will be described.

[0173] The device 100 can execute the process according to the setting (schedule setting, or simply called schedule) to execute the process at a future time desired by the user. In addition, the time that can be scheduled may be limited depending on the device 100.

[0174] Therefore, in this embodiment, the device operation content is excluded when the device operation setting is proposed to the user in consideration of the time that the device 100 can be scheduled. Thus, among the candidates for the operation of the device 100, the candidates for the operation outside the time that the device 100 can be scheduled are excluded, and the candidate image including the candidates that are retained after the exclusion is displayed.

[0175] The data structure and the processing when generating proposals in this embodiment are different from those in the second embodiment.

[0176] The data structure diagram of this embodiment and the processing when generating a proposal are described.

[0177] Fig.11A , Fig. 11B , Fig. 11C and Fig.11D It is an explanatory diagram showing the data structure of the device operation setting proposal system 1 in this embodiment.

[0178] Fig.11A The classification table shown and Fig. 11B The device usage ratio table shown is the same as that in Implementation 2.

[0179] Fig. 11C This is a third explanatory diagram showing the data structure of the device operation setting proposal system 1 in the present embodiment.

[0180] Fig. 11C The reservable time data shown is data indicating the time during which the device 100 can be reservably operated, and indicates different available time for each method of using the device, for example, each course.

[0181] Fig.11D The proposed data shown to the user is the proposed content displayed to the user, triggered by the proposal request to the server 200, based on the user's device usage ratio table (refer to Fig. 11B ) and user classification (refer to Fig.11A ), and available reservation time data (refer to Fig. 11C ) is generated, indicating the operation content of the device 100 on which the user can perform a reservation operation.

[0182] Fig.12 This is a flowchart showing the process of generating a proposal by the facility operation setting proposal system 1 according to the present embodiment.

[0183] Fig.12 The processing shown represents step S300 of the first embodiment (see Figure 4 ) includes detailed processing. Fig.12 The process of generating proposals shown is similar to Fig.10 The process of generating proposals is similar as shown. Fig.12 The process of generating proposals shown is Fig.10 The processing is the same as that in generating the proposal shown, and detailed description is omitted.

[0184] Steps S321 to S324 and Fig.10 The processing of steps S311 to S314 in is the same.

[0185] In step S325, the proposal management unit 204 refers to the available reservation time data (refer to Fig. 11C ), extracts the operation contents of the device 100 that can perform the scheduled operation from the device operation contents obtained in step S324. In other words, the proposal management unit 204 excludes the device operation contents that are outside the executable time from the device operation contents obtained in step S324.

[0186] In step S326, the proposal management unit 204 uses the user category extracted in step S322 and the device operation content extracted in step S325 as proposal data to the user (see Fig.11D ) is sent to terminal 300.

[0187] For example, when the date and time of displaying the proposal to user 1 is 6:00 on Tuesday, similarly to Embodiment 2, in step S323, the device usage ratio of user 1 on Tuesday is extracted. In step S324, the proposal management unit 204 extracts the device usage ratio of user 1 on Tuesday. Fig. 11B The device operation contents with a high proportion of device operation are obtained in sequence, and compared with the available reservation time data (refer to Fig. 11C ) for comparison.

[0188] Through this comparison, the proposal management department 204 will exclude the "Washing_Entrusted Program, 6:00-7:00" and "Drying_Entrusted Program, 7:00-8:00" that cannot be reserved at 6:00, and maintain the "Washing_Customized Program, 17:00-18:00" and "Washing and Drying_Entrusted Program, 21:00-22:00".

[0189] In step S326, the proposal management unit 204 uses the user classification acquired in step S322 and the device operation content maintained in step S325 as proposal data for user 1 (see Fig.11D ) is sent to terminal 300.

[0190] (Implementation 4)

[0191] In the present embodiment, another aspect of an information processing method and an information processing system for presenting appropriate presentation content to a user will be described.

[0192] If user's predetermined information is used when displaying proposals on terminal 300, it is possible to propose device operation settings with higher accuracy.

[0193] Therefore, in the present embodiment, when proposing device operation settings to the user using the user's plan information, exclusion determination of device operation contents is performed.

[0194] The timing, data structure, and processing for generating proposals in this embodiment are different from those in the third embodiment.

[0195] The following describes the sequence diagram, data structure diagram, and processing when generating a proposal in this embodiment.

[0196] Fig.13 This is a sequence diagram of the device operation setting proposal system 1 in this embodiment.

[0197] Fig.13 The processing shown is similar to the processing of the device operation setting proposal system 1 of the first embodiment (see Figure 4 ) is similar. Fig.13 Among the processes shown, the processes that are the same as those of the device operation setting proposal system 1 according to the first embodiment are omitted from detailed description.

[0198] In steps S111 and S200 , the server 200 classifies users based on the tendency of device operation.

[0199] In step S112, terminal 300 sets and transmits schedule information indicating the user's schedule. The schedule information can be set by, for example, an application running on terminal 300 accepting an operation related to the user's schedule.

[0200] In step S113, the server 200 receives the reservation information received in step S112. The user management unit 201 of the server 200 manages the received reservation information. The server 200 notifies the terminal 300 that the reception is completed.

[0201] In step S114 , the terminal 300 sends a proposal request to the server 200 .

[0202] In step S300A, server 200 executes a process of generating a proposal. The process of step S300A is similar to step S300 of embodiment 1, but is different from step S300 in that the predetermined information received in step S112 is considered.

[0203] The processing of steps S115 to S118 is similar to that of steps S103 to S106 in Embodiment 1 (see Figure 4 )same.

[0204] Fig.14A , Fig. 14B , Fig. 14C , Fig.14D and Fig.14E It is an explanatory diagram showing the data structure of the device operation setting proposal system 1 in this embodiment.

[0205] Figures 14A to 14C Compared with the data structure in implementation mode 3 (i.e. Figures 11A to 11C )same.

[0206] Fig.14D The user's scheduled information shown is information indicating the user's schedule. The scheduled information specifically includes date, time, and scheduled information. The schedule is an action that the user plans to perform on that date and time, including an action that makes it impossible to operate the device 100 when performing the action, such as being set to sleep or going out.

[0207] Fig.14E The proposed data shown to the user is the proposed content displayed to the user, triggered by the proposal request to the server 200, based on the user's device usage ratio table (refer to Fig. 14B ) and user classification (refer to Fig.14A ), available reservation time data (refer to Fig. 14C ), and reservation information (see Fig.14D ) is generated, indicating the operation content of the device 100 on which the user can perform a reservation operation.

[0208] Fig.15 This is a flowchart showing the process of generating a proposal by the facility operation setting proposal system 1 according to the present embodiment.

[0209] Fig.15 The processing shown in the figure represents step S300 of the first embodiment (see Figure 4 ) includes detailed processing. Fig.15 The process of generating proposals shown is similar to Fig.12 The process of generating proposals is similar as shown. Fig.15 The process of generating proposals shown is Fig.12 The processing is the same as that in generating the proposal shown, and detailed description is omitted.

[0210] Steps S331 to S335 and Fig.12 The processing of steps S321 to S325 in is the same.

[0211] In step S336, the proposal management unit 204 refers to the user's scheduled information (refer to Fig.14D ) information, and exclude the device operation content within the time that overlaps with the user's scheduled time from the device operation content retained after exclusion in step S335.

[0212] In step S337, the proposal management unit 204 uses the user classification extracted in step S332 and the device operation content remaining after being excluded in step S336 as proposal data to the user (see Fig.14E ) is sent to terminal 300.

[0213] For example, when the date and time of the proposal to user 1 is 6:00 on January 1, 2020 (Tuesday), similarly to the third embodiment, after executing step S335, "Washing_Customized Program, 17:00-18:00" and "Washing and Drying_Entrusted Program, 21:00-22:00" are retained as executable operations. In step S336, the proposal management unit 204 associates "Washing and Drying_Entrusted Program, 21:00-22:00" which does not overlap with the scheduled operation of user 1 with the user's category and uses it as proposal data to user 1 (refer to Fig.14E ) is sent to terminal 300 (step S337).

[0214] (Implementation method 5)

[0215] In the present embodiment, another aspect of an information processing method and an information processing system for presenting appropriate presentation content to a user will be described.

[0216] In Embodiments 1 to 4, terminal 300 different from device 100 is provided as a terminal for displaying proposals for device operation settings to the user and accepting inputs, but device 100 may also have the functions of the above terminal.

[0217] In other words, in this embodiment, the system configuration, block diagram, and timing are different from those of Embodiments 1 to 4.

[0218] The following describes a system configuration diagram, a block diagram, and a sequence diagram of this embodiment.

[0219] Fig.16 1 is a diagram schematically showing the overall configuration of a device operation setting proposal system 1A according to the present embodiment.

[0220] exist Fig.16 In the present invention, the device operation setting proposal system 1A includes a device 100A and a server 200, and each of them can communicate via a network.

[0221] The device 100A is a device to be operated by the user. The device 100A can communicate via a network, can display proposals from the server 200, and can receive user input. The device 100A is, for example, a washing machine, an autonomous mobile vacuum cleaner, or a microwave oven.

[0222] The server 200 collects logs and proposes device operation settings. The server 200 can be located in the cloud or on the local side, which is the same as in the first to fourth embodiments.

[0223] Hereinafter, in this embodiment, a device 100A which is different from the device 100 in Embodiments 1 to 4 will be described in particular.

[0224] Fig.17 This is a block diagram of a device operation setting proposal system 1A in the present embodiment.

[0225] exist Fig.17 In the embodiment, the device 100A includes an input unit 101, a display unit 102, a setting receiving unit 103, a device control unit 104, a log sending unit 105, and a proposal receiving unit 106. The input unit 101, the display unit 102, the setting receiving unit 103, the device control unit 104, and the log sending unit 105 are the same as those in the first to fourth embodiments.

[0226] The proposal receiving unit 106 of the device 100A is the same as the proposal receiving unit 301 of the terminal 300 in Embodiment 1. That is, the proposal receiving unit 106 receives the proposal information sent by the proposal management unit 204 of the server 200 and the classification information indicating the group classified based on the device operation tendency of the user. The received proposal information is displayed on the display unit 102 of the device 100A based on the received classification information, and the selection of the proposal content or the input of the device operation setting is performed on the input unit 101.

[0227] Fig.18 This is a timing chart in this embodiment. Step S121 may be the same as that in Embodiment 1 and the like.

[0228] Step S122 and step S123 are the same communication contents as step S102 and step S103 in Embodiment 1, etc. The device 100A includes the proposal receiving unit 106 , and thus the communication is between the device 100A and the server 200 , which is different from Embodiment 1, etc.

[0229] After the communication in step S123, the device 100A performs display (step S400) and execution of processing (step S500).

[0230] In addition, since the device operation is directly performed on the device 100A, communication related to the device operation (step S106 in the first embodiment and the like) is not performed.

[0231] (Implementation method 6)

[0232] In the present embodiment, another aspect of an information processing method and an information processing system for presenting appropriate presentation content to a user will be described.

[0233] In this embodiment, the device 100 and the terminal 300 are not in a 1:1 relationship, but in an n:m relationship (where n is an integer greater than 1, and m is an integer greater than 1). In this case, by determining the proposal method in accordance with the characteristics of the UI (User Interface) of the terminal 300, the burden on the user can be further reduced.

[0234] Fig.19 1 is a diagram schematically showing the overall configuration of a device operation setting proposal system 1B according to the present embodiment.

[0235] exist Fig.19 In the device operation setting proposal system 1B, a plurality of devices 100 ( Fig.19 Devices 110A and 110B in the system), a server 200, and a plurality of terminals 300 ( Fig.19The plurality of devices 100, the server 200, and the plurality of terminals 300 can communicate via the network.

[0236] Fig.19 The illustrated configuration corresponds to, for example, a configuration in which a certain user owns a plurality of terminals 300 capable of displaying or inputting proposals, and a plurality of devices 100 capable of communicating via a network as operation targets of the user.

[0237] In the present embodiment, the proposal management unit 204 manages the size of the display screen of the display unit 302 as the UI included in the plurality of terminals 300 (for example, the size, number of pixels, or resolution of the display screen).

[0238] exist Fig.19 In the configuration shown, for example, sometimes the display screen of the display unit 302 of the terminal 310A is small, so it is difficult to display multiple proposals for the user to visually recognize. Whether it is difficult for the user to visually recognize multiple proposals can be determined based on information related to the size of the display screen managed by the proposal management unit 204. For example, in the case where the display screen does not have a sufficient number of pixels to display multiple proposals, or in the case where the display screen has a sufficient number of pixels to display multiple proposals but the size of the characters cannot be visually recognized by the user, it can be determined that it is difficult for the user to visually recognize multiple proposals. In this case, the proposal management unit 204 can also set the proposal method to a selective method, for example.

[0239] Furthermore, the proposal management unit 204 manages the input functions of the input units 303 included in the plurality of terminals 300 (for example, whether the input method is touch input on the screen, character input using a keyboard, or pressing a dedicated button, etc.).

[0240] exist Fig.19 In the illustrated configuration, for example, the input method of the input unit 303 of the terminal 310A may be such that only "OK" or "Cancel" can be input in response to an inquiry from the terminal 310A, in other words, character input cannot be performed using the keyboard. Whether only "OK" or "Cancel" can be input can be determined based on information related to the input method managed by the proposal management unit 204. For example, in the case where the input method is to press a dedicated button, it can be determined that only "OK" or "Cancel" can be input. In this case, the proposal management unit 204 may also adopt a response method other than the input method (in other words, not adopting the input method) as the proposal method.

[0241] Fig. 20This is an explanatory diagram showing a sample of a proposal performed by the device operation setting proposal system 1 , 1A, or 1B (also referred to as the device operation setting proposal system 1 , etc.) according to the present embodiment.

[0242] like Fig. 20 As shown, the device operation setting proposal system 1 and the like target users classified into group A (in Fig. 20 denoted as “users who always use the same method”), the user proposes the operation of the device 100 in a selective manner.

[0243] In addition, the device operation setting proposal system 1 and the like target users classified into group B (in Fig. 20 The user is described as "a user who uses the usage method of mode 2 or 3" in the figure) and proposes the operation of the device 100 in a selective manner.

[0244] In addition, the device operation setting proposal system 1 and the like target users classified into group C (in Fig. 20 denoted as "a user who uses a variety of different usage methods"), and proposes the operation of the device 100 in an input manner.

[0245] In this way, the facility operation setting proposal system 1 and the like can present appropriate presentation content to the user.

[0246] Furthermore, in Embodiment 3 or 4, when the number of proposed contents becomes 1 due to the exclusion process based on the available reservation time of the device 100 or the user's scheduled information, a proposal may be made as an alternative method. Similarly, when the number of proposed contents becomes 0, the next day (if the current day is Tuesday, Wednesday of the next day) may be used as the object, and the proposal process of the device operation setting may be executed again from the beginning to make a proposal.

[0247] In the second embodiment, the data of the equipment use ratio table is generated periodically. However, when the data is targeted at seasons or holidays, the data may be generated at an arbitrary timing.

[0248] Furthermore, when making a proposal in a selection mode or an input mode, if the user rejects the proposal, the screen may be guided or transferred to the input mode screen.

[0249] In addition, in the case of selecting one of the methods, the device 100 may directly execute the processing according to the operation setting information without displaying it at the time of the proposal.

[0250] In addition, regarding the proposal, it is conceivable to utilize user feedback or operation setting information after the proposal is made in order to improve the accuracy of the proposal.

[0251] Alternatively, the proposal may be a proposal using push notification of a smartphone application or the like.

[0252] Furthermore, although modified examples of the above-described embodiment will be described below, the present embodiment is not limited to the following description.

[0253] (Variation 1 of Embodiments 1 to 6)

[0254] Fig.21 It is an explanatory diagram of Modification 1 of Embodiments 1 to 6.

[0255] exist Fig.21 The processing of terminal 300 is shown in FIG.

[0256] In step S601, the terminal 300 obtains the classification and proposal content of the user.

[0257] In step S602, terminal 300 branches the process according to the acquired user classification. If it is determined that the user classification is group A, the process proceeds to step S603, if it is determined that the user classification is group B, the process proceeds to step S604, and if it is determined that the user classification is group C, the process proceeds to step S607.

[0258] In step S603, the terminal 300 performs display in an alternative manner.

[0259] In step S604, the terminal 300 performs display in a selection manner.

[0260] In step S605, terminal 300 determines whether an input indicating rejection of a proposal has been received from the user. If an input indicating rejection of a proposal has been received from the user, the process proceeds to step S607; otherwise, the process proceeds to step S606.

[0261] In step S607, the terminal 300 performs a display in an input form. If the terminal 300 subsequently determines that an input indicating an operation to reject a proposal has been received from the user, the terminal 300 performs a display in an input form.

[0262] In step S606 , terminal 300 determines operation setting information and accepts input.

[0263] pass Fig.21 In the series of processes shown, the device operation setting proposal system 1 etc. can guide or shift to the screen of the input mode when the user rejects the proposal after the proposal is made in the selection mode or the input mode.

[0264] (Variation 2 of Embodiments 1 to 6)

[0265] Fig. 22 This is an explanatory diagram of Modification 2 of Embodiments 1 to 6.

[0266] exist Fig. 22The processing of terminal 300 is shown in FIG.

[0267] In step S611, the terminal 300 obtains the classification and proposal content of the user.

[0268] In step S612, terminal 300 branches the process according to the acquired user classification. If it is determined that the user classification is group A, the process proceeds to step S615, if it is determined that the user classification is group B, the process proceeds to step S613, and if it is determined that the user classification is group C, the process proceeds to step S614.

[0269] In step S613, the terminal 300 performs display in a selection manner.

[0270] In step S614, the terminal 300 performs display in an input manner.

[0271] In step S615, the terminal 300 determines the operation setting information and accepts the input. In other words, when it is determined in step S612 that the user is classified into group A, the user is not displayed.

[0272] pass Fig. 22 In the series of processes shown, the device operation setting proposal system 1 etc. can, in the case of an alternative mode, not display the process at the time of proposal, but execute the process according to the operation setting information by the terminal 300 .

[0273] (Variation 3 of Embodiments 1 to 6)

[0274] Fig.23A , Fig. 23B , Fig.23C , Fig.23D and Fig.23E These are first to fifth explanatory diagrams of Modification 3 of Embodiments 1 to 6.

[0275] exist Fig.23A , Fig. 23B , Fig.23C , Fig.23D and Fig.23E In , the user classification table, the user's device usage ratio table, the user's feedback information, the user's reservation information, and the proposal data to the user are respectively shown.

[0276] Fig.23C The feedback information shown indicates information fed back from users regarding evaluations of proposals made by the device operation setting proposal system 1, etc. The evaluation of proposals is an index indicating to what extent the proposals made by the device operation setting proposal system 1, etc. are appropriate for the user, and is expressed in 11 stages, for example, from -5 to +5.

[0277] Fig.24This is a sixth explanatory diagram of Modification 3 of Embodiments 1 to 6.

[0278] Fig.24 The processing of the terminal 300, the server 200 and the device 100 is shown.

[0279] In step S711, the device 100 collects and sends logs.

[0280] In the server 200, the device 100 is registered in advance (step S721).

[0281] In step S722, the server 200 obtains the logs collected by the device 100, calculates the number of patterns based on the device operation history and feedback information, and classifies the users according to the calculated number of patterns.

[0282] In step S731 , the terminal 300 starts an application.

[0283] In step S732, the terminal 300 transmits a proposal request to the server 200. The server 200 acquires the proposal request from the terminal 300 that has activated the application.

[0284] In step S723, the server 200 determines whether the user always uses the same method, and if determined to be such a user (step S723: Yes), the server 200 notifies the terminal 300 of the determination result. The terminal 300 that receives the notification displays in an alternative manner (step S733).

[0285] When it is determined in step S723 that the user is not always using the same usage method (step S723: No), the process proceeds to step S724.

[0286] In step S724, server 200 determines whether the user is a user who uses several patterns of usage methods, and if determined to be such a user (step S724: Yes), the determination result is notified to terminal 300. Terminal 300 that has received the notification displays the selection (step S734).

[0287] When the server 200 determines in step S724 that the method of use of several modes is not used (step S724: No), the server 200 notifies the terminal 300 of the determination result. The terminal 300 that receives the notification displays the input form (step S735).

[0288] Thereafter, the terminal 300 determines the operation setting information and sends it to the server 200 (step S736). The server 200 that has received the operation setting information updates the feedback information based on the operation setting information and sends the device operation setting to the device 100 (step S725). The device 100 that has received the device operation setting executes the processing (step S712).

[0289] (Variation 4 of Embodiments 1 to 6)

[0290] Fig.25 This is a first explanatory diagram of Modification 4 of Embodiments 1 to 6.

[0291] exist Fig.25 The configuration diagram is shown in . A plurality of terminals 310A to 310N and a plurality of devices 110A to 110N are connected to a server 200 and a notification server 400 via a network.

[0292] The notification server 400 is a server that sends push notifications.

[0293] Fig.26 This is a second explanatory diagram of Modification 4 of Embodiments 1 to 6.

[0294] Fig.26 The processing of the terminal 300, the notification server 400, the server 200 and the device 100 is shown. The terminal 300 is equivalent to Fig.25 In addition, the device 100 is equivalent to the terminal 310A~310N. Fig.25 Devices 110A~110N.

[0295] exist Fig.26 In, it is expressed Fig.24 The control from the server 200 to the terminal 300 is sent by a push notification performed by the notification server 400 (step S741).

[0296] Other points and Fig.24 Likewise, the description is therefore omitted.

[0297] (Examples of images in Embodiments 1 to 6)

[0298] Hereinafter, examples of images displayed on terminal 300 in Embodiments 1 to 6 will be described.

[0299] Fig. 27 This is an explanatory diagram of an image 500 as a first example of an image displayed by the terminal 300 (that is, the display unit 302 ) in the first to sixth embodiments.

[0300] Fig. 27The image 500 shown is an example of an image displayed on the display unit 302 when the terminal 300 presents the operation options in an alternative manner.

[0301] The image 500 includes an urging word 501 , setting content 502 , a reason 503 , a change button 504 , and an execution button 505 .

[0302] The urging words 501 are words for the user for urging the user to select and set the operation indicated by the setting content 502 .

[0303] The setting contents 502 are the contents of the processing executed by the device 100 .

[0304] Reason 503 is the reason for proposing setting content 502 as the content of the process executed by the device 100 .

[0305] Change button 504 is a button for accepting an operation to change settings. When accepting the user's operation on change button 504, terminal 300 and / or server 200 may determine that the user has rejected the proposal and shift to the proposal input mode.

[0306] The execution button 505 is a button for accepting setting of the operation indicated by the setting content 502 to the device 100. When the user's operation on the execution button 505 is accepted, the terminal 300 and / or the server 200 sets the operation indicated by the setting content 502 to the device 100.

[0307] Fig.28 This is an explanatory diagram of an image 510 as a second example of an image displayed on the terminal 300 in the first to sixth embodiments.

[0308] Fig.28 The image 510 shown is an example of an image displayed by the display unit 302 when the terminal 300 (display unit 302) presents the operation options in a selective manner. The image 510 is an example of an image displayed by the display unit 302 when the operation settings of the device 100 are made before the user confirms the content, and the changes or deletions made by the user are accepted thereafter.

[0309] Image 510 includes notification words 511 and setting contents 512 .

[0310] Notification wording 511 is a wording for users for notifying the user that the operation indicated by setting content 512 has been set.

[0311] The setting contents 512 are the contents of the processing executed by the device 100 .

[0312] Fig.29This is an explanatory diagram of a third example of an image displayed on the terminal 300 in the first to sixth embodiments.

[0313] Fig.29 The image 520 shown is an example of an image displayed on the display unit 302 when the terminal 300 presents an option for operation in a selection form.

[0314] Image 520 includes setting candidates 521 , 522 , and 523 , a selection button 525 , and a setting button 527 .

[0315] The setting candidates 521, 522, and 523 respectively indicate the content of the processing executed by the device 100, and indicate the candidates (options) of the processing executed by the device 100. The setting candidates 521, 522, and 523 may be arranged at the upper position as the possibility of being selected by the user increases.

[0316] The selection button 525 is a button for accepting a selection operation by the user regarding which selection candidate to select from the setting candidates 521 , 522 , and 523 .

[0317] The setting button 527 is a button for accepting an operation of setting the operation indicated by the selection button 525 to the device 100. When the user's operation on the setting button 527 is accepted, the terminal 300 and / or the server 200 sets the operation indicated by the selection button 525 to the device 100.

[0318] Fig.30 This is an explanatory diagram of a fourth example of an image displayed on the terminal 300 in the first to sixth embodiments.

[0319] Fig.30 The image 530 shown is an example of an image displayed on the display unit 302 when the terminal 300 presents an option for operation in a selection form.

[0320] Image 530 includes other setting candidates 531 .

[0321] Setting candidate 531 indicates the operation performed by device 100. Fig.29 The setting candidates 521, 522, and 523 shown all have different processing contents as options.

[0322] When an operation of selecting the setting candidate 531 is accepted from the user, the terminal 300 and / or the server 200 sets the operation indicated by the setting candidate 531 to the device 100 .

[0323] Fig.31 This is an explanatory diagram of a fifth example of an image displayed on the terminal 300 in the first to sixth embodiments.

[0324] Fig.31The image 540 shown is an example of an image displayed on the display unit 302 when the terminal 300 presents an input form.

[0325] Image 540 includes input fields 541 and 542 , and a registration button 543 .

[0326] The input field 541 is an input field for accepting the setting of the operation mode or operation course of the device 100 .

[0327] Input field 542 is an input field for accepting setting of a time at which processing by device 100 is completed.

[0328] Registration button 543 is a button for accepting an operation of setting the contents inputted in input fields 541 and 542 to device 100. When the user operates registration button 543, terminal 300 and / or server 200 sets the operations indicated in input fields 541 and 542 to device 100.

[0329] Fig.32 This is an explanatory diagram of a sixth example of an image displayed on the terminal 300 in the first to sixth embodiments.

[0330] Fig.32 The image 550 shown is an example of an image displayed on the display unit 302 when the terminal 300 presents the options in the alternative mode or the selection mode.

[0331] Image 550 includes processing periods 551 and 554 , processing contents 552 and 555 , and deletion marks 553 and 556 .

[0332] The processing period 551 indicates a period during which the device 100 executes processing. The processing period 551 indicates, for example, a period during which the device 100 executes processing as a graphic (rectangle).

[0333] The processing period 554 , like the processing period 551 , indicates the period during which the device 100 executes the processing.

[0334] The processing content 552 indicates the details of the processing performed in the processing period 551 .

[0335] The processing content 555 indicates the details of the processing performed in the processing period 554 .

[0336] The delete mark 553 is a button for accepting an operation of deleting (cancelling) the processing performed in the processing period 551 .

[0337] The delete mark 556 is a button for accepting an operation of deleting (cancelling) the processing performed in the processing period 554 .

[0338] As described above, the embodiments are described as examples of the technology in the present disclosure, and the drawings and detailed descriptions are provided for this purpose.

[0339] Therefore, the components described in the drawings and the specific embodiments include not only the components necessary for solving the problem, but also components that are not necessary for solving the problem in order to illustrate the above implementation. Therefore, it should not be directly determined that these non-essential components are essential just because they are described in the drawings or the detailed description.

[0340] In addition, the above-mentioned embodiments are for illustrating the technology in the present disclosure, and therefore various changes, substitutions, additions, omissions, etc. can be made within the scope of the claims or their equivalents.

[0341] Industrial Applicability

[0342] The present disclosure can be applied to an apparatus that supports a user's operation on a device that is operated via a network.

[0343] Description of reference numerals:

[0344] 1.1A, 1B Equipment Operation Setting Proposal System

[0345] 100, 100A, 110A, 110B, 110N devices

[0346] 101, 303 Input

[0347] 102, 302 Display unit

[0348] 103 Setting the receiving unit

[0349] 104 Equipment Control Department

[0350] 105 Log Sending Department

[0351] 106, 301 Proposal Receiving Department

[0352] 200 Server

[0353] 201 User Management Department

[0354] 202 Equipment Management Department

[0355] 203 Log Management Department

[0356] 204 Proposal Management Department

[0357] 300, 310A, 310B, 310C, 310N terminals

[0358] 304 Set up the sending unit

[0359] 400 Notify Server

[0360] 500, 510, 520, 530, 540, 550 images

[0361] 501 Urgent Words

[0362] 502, 512 Setting content

[0363] 503 reasons

[0364] 504 Change Button

[0365] 505 Execute button

[0366] 511 Notification Terms

[0367] 521, 522, 523, 531 Set candidates

[0368] 525 Select Button

[0369] 527 Setting Button

[0370] 541, 542 Input field

[0371] 543 Registration Button

[0372] 551, 554 Processing period

[0373] 552, 555 Processing content

[0374] 553, 556 Delete mark

Claims

1. An information processing method, Acquire device information related to the device and operation information indicating the contents of a plurality of first operations performed by a user on the device in a corresponding manner; Based on the operation tendency of the user obtained from the contents of the plurality of first operations indicated by the operation information, determining whether to set the image presented to the user as a candidate image or as an input field image, the candidate image being an image including a candidate of a second operation to be performed on the device, and the input field image being an image including an input field for accepting the contents of the second operation; In accordance with the determination, controlling to present the image to the user, In the said decision, using the operation tendency of the user, classifying the user into one of (a) a first group in which the proportion of one type of operation content is prominently high, (b) a second group in which the total proportion of a plurality of types of operation content exceeds 50%, or (c) a third group other than the first group and the second group, (i) when the user is classified into the first group, determining a first image that is a single candidate of the candidate images and includes the second operation as the image to be presented to the user, (ii) when the user is classified into the second group, determining a second image including a plurality of candidates for the second operation as the candidate image as the image to be presented to the user, (iii) When the user is classified into the third group, the input field image is determined as the image to be presented to the user.

2. The information processing method according to claim 1, Furthermore, first information related to the conditions in which the plurality of first operations are respectively performed and second information related to the conditions in which the second operation is to be performed are obtained, In the said decision, The first information is compared with the second information to determine the image.

3. The information processing method according to claim 1, Furthermore, obtaining a time when the reservation of the device can be made, In case the candidate image is displayed, From among the candidates for the second operation, candidates for the second operation outside the time when the reservation of the device can be performed are excluded, and the candidate images including the excluded second operations remaining are displayed.

4. The information processing method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, The determination is made in accordance with the characteristics of a UI, or user interface, of the device presenting the image.

5. An information processing device comprising a processor and a memory, The processor uses the memory to: Acquire device information related to the device and operation information indicating the contents of a plurality of first operations performed by a user on the device in a corresponding manner; Based on the operation tendency of the user obtained from the contents of the plurality of first operations indicated by the operation information, determining whether to set the image presented to the user as a candidate image or as an input field image, the candidate image being an image including a candidate of a second operation to be performed on the device, and the input field image being an image including an input field for accepting the contents of the second operation; In accordance with the determination, controlling to present the image to the user, In the said decision, using the operation tendency of the user, classifying the user into one of (a) a first group in which the proportion of one type of operation content is prominently high, (b) a second group in which the total proportion of a plurality of types of operation content exceeds 50%, or (c) a third group other than the first group and the second group, (i) when the user is classified into the first group, determining a first image that is a single candidate of the candidate images and includes the second operation as the image to be presented to the user, (ii) when the user is classified into the second group, determining a second image including a plurality of candidates for the second operation as the candidate image as the image to be presented to the user, (iii) When the user is classified into the third group, the input field image is determined as the image to be presented to the user.

6. A program recording medium for causing a computer to execute the information processing method according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

Images