Dialogue system

Abstract

To increase the motivation to take a specific action of a user and increase the possibility of taking the specific action in the end, on the basis of the history of the specific action of the user.SOLUTION: A dialogue unit 51 of a dialogue system 1 has daily dialogues with a specific user. Action history information acquisition unit 52 acquires action history information in association with a specific action such as the action of drinking water taken by the user. A dialogue content information generation unit 54 generates dialogue content information for enhancing a motivation to take the specific action by the specific user on the basis of the action history information. The dialogue unit 51 outputs a dialogue to the specific user on the basis of the dialogue content information.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an interactive system.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, there has been a technique for checking whether a user is taking medicine appropriately and notifying various information based on the user's medicine-taking schedule and the amount of medicine taken (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Document

Patent Document

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] It merely notified the action (medicine-taking in the above example) based on the schedule and the history of actions. That is, what happens after the notification is left to the person who received the notification, and no mechanism has been proposed for conducting a dialogue to enhance the motivation of the user for a specific action (hereinafter referred to as "specific action") of the user based on the performance of the specific action of the user.

[0005] An object of the present invention is to enhance the motivation of a user for a specific action of the user and improve the possibility of achieving the specific action based on the performance of the specific action of the user.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] To achieve the above object, an interactive system according to an aspect of the present invention includes interactive means for routinely interacting with a predetermined user, action performance information acquisition means for acquiring action performance information related to a specific action of the predetermined user, Conversation content generation means for generating conversation content information for enhancing the motivation of the predetermined user for the specific action based on the action performance information. Comprising The conversation means outputs a conversation to the predetermined user based on the conversation content information.

Advantages of the Invention

[0007] According to the present invention, based on the performance of a user's specific action, it is possible to enhance the motivation of the user for the specific action and improve the possibility of achieving the specific action.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0008]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Modes for Carrying Out the Invention

[0009] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0010] First, prior to the description of the embodiments of the present invention, the importance of drinking water will be explained. It is known that when the amount of water in the human body is not within an appropriate range, the physical condition deteriorates. For example, when the amount of water in the body decreases, the amount of water in the blood decreases, leading to a deterioration of blood flow, cells becoming dehydrated and functioning poorly, resulting in various disorders of the body composed of cells and causing a feeling of fatigue.

[0011] Furthermore, more specifically, as will be described later, the present inventor has pointed out that a decrease in the amount of water in the body contributes to the progression of dementia.

[0012] That is, although the present inventor can improve physical discomfort including dementia by drinking water, since people are not practicing drinking water, the present invention has been made to solve this problem. In particular, the relationship between insufficient body water content and diseases in the elderly will be described later.

[0013] Hereinafter, a description will be given on the assumption that the user of the dialogue system according to an embodiment of the present invention is an elderly person. Generally, due to various elements of daily life such as temperature and exercise, the amount of water in the user's body decreases. Furthermore, it is said that elderly people are less likely to feel thirsty in their throats due to the decline of their sensory organs. As a result, it is assumed that the amount of water in the user's body has decreased.

[0014] In this case, as described above, for the user, a greater sense of fatigue is felt than the actual activity level. Then, the user who feels fatigue will not engage in much activity during the day and will not move. As a result, the user's sleep will be shallow. A user with shallow sleep wakes up at night. Then, since the brain is active, the user is more likely to feel the urge to urinate. That is, even though there is enough margin in the actual amount of urine stored in the bladder, the urge to urinate is felt. As a result, the user will take the action of going to the toilet at night. In this way, a decrease in the amount of water in the body has a great impact on the user's physical condition and quality of life.

[0015] Furthermore, users tend to refrain from drinking water before going to bed due to the experience of going to the toilet at night. As a result, the above-mentioned effects become more prominent. It is considered that there are a certain number or more of users in such a situation.

[0016] Here, it is said that the dehydrated state of the brain causes dementia. That is, by eliminating the dehydrated state of the brain, the cause of dementia is removed. In addition, drinking water has a relaxing and stress-relieving effect. The relaxing and stress-relieving effects are also said to contribute to the prevention of dementia. Naturally, as long as the user takes in water, the dehydrated state of the brain will be eliminated. That is, taking in water contributes to improving dementia.

[0017] Furthermore, as described above, by taking in water, the feeling of fatigue is eliminated, daily activities during the day are carried out, sleep becomes deeper, and the urge to urinate at night is also suppressed, resulting in an improvement in the user's physical condition and quality of life. As a result, taking in water can further generate the motivation to take in more water.

[0018] Furthermore, it is said that the progression of dementia is greatly affected by various physical and mental activities. As described above, taking in water leads to the elimination of fatigue and the like, and as a result, it has the effect of promoting daily activities such as actions in daily life and activities for hobbies during the day. Such daily activities also contribute to the prevention and improvement of dementia.

[0019] On the other hand, generally speaking, regardless of age, it is said that one should drink about 2 liters of water a day as a guideline, although it also depends on factors such as climate, physique, and behavior. That is, in the above description, the user was described as an elderly person, but it goes without saying that even if the user is of other ages, such as a young person, sufficient (appropriate) drinking water is important because it affects the physical condition of the body's water content and the quality of life.

[0020] Thus, drinking water is recommended. Therefore, the user receives advice such as "Let's drink water when going to the hospital or during an interview." However, it has been difficult for the user to notice that they should drink water when they are lacking it, or to recall and practice the fact that they should drink water in their daily lives. Needless to say, it is even more difficult when the user is elderly, or when they are progressing from the early stages to the middle stages of dementia. The inventor of the present invention arrived at the invention of the present invention in order to improve the above-described situation.

[0021] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an overview of information exchange in a service (hereinafter referred to as "this service") to which an interactive system according to an embodiment of the present invention is applied. This service supports the improvement of the quality of life of user U by improving the motivation for a specific action and prompting user U to perform the specific action. Hereinafter, the specific action will be described as drinking water, that is, taking in moisture.

[0022] The interactive system 1 shown in FIG. 1 can improve the motivation of user U for a specific action by exchanging various information with user U via user terminal 2. It is expected that by user U drinking water through this service, the decrease in the amount of body water of user U will be eliminated and the physical condition will be improved.

[0023] As shown in FIG. 1, the interactive system 1 has a function of interacting with user U via user terminal 2. That is, for example, user U can interact with the chatbot via user terminal 2.

[0024] A "chatbot" is an automatic dialogue program that can have a conversation with a natural person using natural language. The chatbot of the present embodiment enables various types of conversations including daily conversations. Although the chatbot can automatically interact with natural persons, it is not limited to fully automatic and may be able to interact semi-automatically. That is, for example, a predetermined operation of another natural person (for example, a service provider) may be performed, and the chatbot may have a function of interacting with natural persons based on the predetermined operation.

[0025] Also, as shown in FIG. 1, the dialogue system 1 acquires information on the results (hereinafter referred to as "action result information") related to the specific action of the user U drinking water through the bottled water 3 with a sensor. That is, the "action result information" is information on the results related to the specific actions of the user U. Specifically, for example, the action result information may include information such as the presence or absence of a specific action, the time, and the degree (for example, the amount of water drunk).

[0026] Here, the user U can drink the water drawn into the bottled water 3 with a sensor. The bottled water 3 of the present embodiment is provided with a sensor, and based on the detection result of the sensor, the action result information of the user U is acquired. Specifically, for example, the sensor attached to the bottled water 3 with a sensor detects the amount of water in the bottle. The bottled water 3 with a sensor transmits the detection result by the sensor to the user terminal 2 using short-range wireless communication. The detection result of the sensor transmitted to the user terminal 2 is transmitted to the dialogue system 1. In this way, the action result information of the user U is acquired via the bottled water 3 with a sensor and the user terminal 2.

[0027] Also, as shown in FIG. 1, the dialogue system 1 acquires the action result information of the user U through the camera 4. The camera 4 of the present embodiment is equipped with an action analysis model that analyzes the results of the actions of the user U based on an image of the state of the actions of the user U in which AI (Artificial Intelligence) technology is used. Based on the image of the user U captured by the camera 4, the action result information of the user U is acquired. Specifically, for example, user U drinks water within the range imaged by camera 4. An image of the state of drinking water is captured by the camera, and based on the image, the action analysis model analyzes that user U has drunk water. Camera 4 transmits the analysis result by the action analysis model to user terminal 2 using short-range wireless communication. The analysis result by the action analysis model transmitted to user terminal 2 is transmitted to dialogue system 1. In this way, the action performance information of user U is acquired via camera 4 and user terminal 2.

[0028] Also, as shown in FIG. 1, dialogue system 1 acquires information indicating a specific state of user U (hereinafter referred to as "state information") via camera 4. That is, the "state information" is information that contributes to the evaluation of whether user U should perform a specific action, and is information indicating the state of user U.

[0029] Specifically, for example, the state information may include information regarding the water volume capacity in the body. The information regarding the water volume capacity refers to information regarding the degree of filling with respect to the water volume capacity in the body of user U himself / herself, etc.

[0030] That is, user U performs various actions. Camera 4 of the present embodiment is equipped with a state analysis model that analyzes the state of user U based on an image in which the state of user U's actions using AI technology is captured. Based on the image of user U captured by camera 4, the state information of user U is acquired. Specifically, for example, actions such as user U drinking water, eating, sweating, going to the toilet, etc. are captured by camera 4. Camera 4 generates the state information of user U by analyzing using the state analysis model based on the image data of the actions of user U captured. Camera 4 transmits the analysis result by the state analysis model to user terminal 2 using short-range wireless communication. The analysis result by the state analysis model transmitted to user terminal 2 is transmitted to dialogue system 1. In this way, the state information of user U is acquired via camera 4 and user terminal 2.

[0031] For example, as a specific state of user U, information regarding, for example, the water capacity in the body is acquired as state information. In other words, information on the state of whether there is enough water in the body of user U is acquired as state information.

[0032] Also, as shown in FIG. 1, the dialogue system 1 acquires the state information of user U via the wearable sensor 5. The wearable sensor 5 of the present embodiment is equipped with sensors for acquiring various information of user U. Based on the measurement results of the sensors acquired by the wearable sensor 5, the state information of user U is acquired by the dialogue system 1. Specifically, for example, user U lives while wearing the wearable sensor 5. The wearable sensor 5 transmits the measurement results of the sensors acquired by the wearable sensor 5 to the user terminal 2 using short-range wireless communication. The measurement results of the sensors transmitted to the user terminal 2 are appropriately analyzed and transmitted to the dialogue system 1 as state information. In this way, the state information of user U is acquired via the wearable sensor 5 and the user terminal 2.

[0033] Then, based on the action performance information and the state information, the dialogue system 1 provides user U with dialogue content for enhancing the motivation to perform a specific action as a dialogue.

[0034] That is, for example, when user U has not sufficiently performed a specific action, the dialogue system 1 provides user U with, as the dialogue content, content including one or more of the disadvantages that user U suffers due to not performing the specific action, the benefits that user U can obtain by performing the specific action, and the content of the specific action that user U should perform.

[0035] Specifically, for example, the dialogue system 1 provides user U with, as the content of the specific action that user U should perform, the content "Please drink water." as the dialogue content. That is, it is preferable that the dialogue content when the user U does not sufficiently perform a specific action directly includes the content of the specific action that the user U should perform. As a result, by being directly pointed out that they should perform a specific action, the user U can have the intention to perform the specific action, that is, the motivation to perform the specific action.

[0036] Also, for example, provide the user U with dialogue content that includes one or more of the following: the disadvantages the user U suffers due to not performing a specific action, the benefits the user U can obtain by performing the specific action, and the content of the specific action that the user U should perform.

[0037] Specifically, for example, assume that the dialogue system 1 has acquired action performance information indicating that the user U has not performed a specific action (here, drinking water) at all. Then, the dialogue system 1 provides the user U with dialogue content such as "Don't you feel listless because you haven't been drinking water? Drinking water will relieve your listlessness. Please drink water."

[0038] With such dialogue content, the user U can have the intention to perform the specific action, that is, the motivation to perform the specific action.

[0039] Furthermore, when the user U performs a specific action, the dialogue system 1 provides the user U with dialogue content that includes one or more of the following: that the user U has performed the specific action, the benefits the user U has obtained by performing the specific action, and that the user U should further perform the specific action.

[0040] Specifically, for example, assume that the user U has performed a specific action (drinking water) using the sensor-equipped bottle 3. In this case, action performance information indicating that the specific action (drinking water) has been performed is acquired via the sensor-equipped bottle 3. Then, the dialogue system 1 provides the user U with dialogue content such as "You've had a drink. Don't you feel less listless? Let's have some more water."

[0041] Through such conversation content, the user U can understand that they have carried out a specific action, that they have benefited from carrying out the specific action, and that it would be better to carry it out further. As a result, the user U can have the intention to carry out the specific action, that is, the motivation to carry out the specific action.

[0042] In addition, the conversation content when the user U has not carried out the specific action sufficiently preferably includes two or more of the following: the fact that the user U has not carried out the specific action, the disadvantages suffered by the user U due to not carrying out the specific action, the benefits that can be obtained by the user U by carrying out the specific action, and the content of the specific action that the user U should carry out. Thereby, since the user U can reasonably understand that they should carry out the specific action, the user U can have the intention to carry out the specific action, that is, the motivation to carry out the specific action.

[0043] That is, as described above, it is difficult for the user U to notice that what they lack is that they should drink water, or to recall and practice that they should drink water in their daily life. Needless to say, it is even more difficult when the user is an elderly person, or when they are progressing from the early stage to the middle stage of the premonition of dementia. In other words, it is conceivable that the user U is not aware that they are suffering from the "disadvantages suffered by the user U due to not carrying out the specific action". Also, even if the user U notices the "disadvantages suffered by the user U due to not carrying out the specific action", it can be said that they are in a state where they cannot associate that it will be eliminated if the specific action is carried out. Therefore, the conversation content of the dialogue system 1 of the present embodiment directly includes the content of the specific action that the user U should carry out. Thereby, the user U can directly have the intention to carry out the specific action, that is, the motivation to carry out the specific action.

[0044] In addition, the dialogue system 1 can execute control for performing such a dialogue and preparing for the user U to perform a specific action. Specifically, for example, as shown in FIG. 1, the dialogue system 1 can use the electric kettle 6 to boil water to prepare for the user U to perform a specific action (here, drinking water). As a result, the user U can perform a specific action (here, drinking water) without boiling water by himself / herself, so that the user U can easily actually shift to the specific action. That is, the possibility that the user U can actually perform the specific action is improved.

[0045] Next, with reference to FIG. 2, the configuration of the information processing system for realizing the provision of the above-described service, that is, the information processing system including the management device according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of an information processing system including a management device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] The information processing system shown in FIG. 2 is configured to include a dialogue system 1, a user terminal 2, a sensor-equipped bottle 3, a camera 4, a wearable sensor 5, and an electric kettle 6. The dialogue system 1, the user terminal 2, the sensor-equipped bottle 3, the camera 4, the wearable sensor 5, and the electric kettle 6 are interconnected via a predetermined network NW such as the Internet.

[0047] The dialogue system 1 is an information processing device managed by the provider of this service. The dialogue system 1 executes various processes for realizing this service while appropriately communicating with the user terminal 2, the sensor-equipped bottle 3, the camera 4, the wearable sensor 5, and the electric kettle 6. The user terminal 2 is an information processing device operated by the user U. The user terminal 2 is composed of a smartphone, a tablet, a personal computer, or the like. The bottle 3 with a sensor is a bottle equipped with a sensor or the like for acquiring information (action performance information) on the performance of a specific action (here, drinking water) of the user U. That is, the bottle 3 with a sensor is a bottle used when the user U performs a specific action, and is attached with a sensor capable of acquiring information on the performance of the specific action. The bottle 3 with a sensor according to the present embodiment is configured to be able to transmit various types of information including action performance information to the dialogue system 1 and the user terminal 2 via the network NW. The camera 4 is an information processing device equipped with an imaging element for acquiring information (action performance information) on the performance of a specific action (here, drinking water) of the user U and information (status information) indicating a specific state of the user U. That is, the camera 4 acquires image data that can analyze the state of the user U, and can acquire action performance information and status information by analyzing the image data. The camera 4 according to the present embodiment is configured to be able to transmit various types of information including action performance information and status information to the dialogue system 1 and the user terminal 2 via the network. The wearable sensor 5 is a device composed of a sensor or the like that can be worn by the user U for acquiring information (status information) indicating a specific state of the user U. That is, the wearable sensor 5 measures parameters related to the body of the user U (for example, heart rate, arterial oxygen saturation (SpO 2 ), acceleration, etc.) with a sensor, and can acquire status information by analyzing the measurement results. The wearable sensor 5 according to the present embodiment is configured to be able to transmit various types of information including status information to the dialogue system 1 and the user terminal 2 via the network. The electric kettle 6 is a so-called IoT (Internet of Things) device that can be controlled from other information processing devices via the Internet or the like, and is an electric kettle that can boil water electrically. The electric kettle 6 can boil water for the user U to drink as a specific action under the control of the dialogue system 1 and the user terminal 2.

[0048] Figure 3 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the server in the information processing system shown in Figure 2.

[0049] The dialogue system 1 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 11, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 12, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 13, a bus 14, an input / output interface 15, an input unit 16, an output unit 17, a storage unit 18, a communication unit 19, and a drive 20.

[0050] The CPU 11 executes various processes according to a program recorded in the ROM 12 or a program loaded from the storage unit 18 to the RAM 13. In the RAM 13, data and the like necessary for the CPU 11 to execute various processes are also appropriately stored.

[0051] The CPU 11, the ROM 12, and the RAM 13 are interconnected via the bus 14. The input / output interface 15 is also connected to this bus 14. The input unit 16, the output unit 17, the storage unit 18, the communication unit 19, and the drive 20 are connected to the input / output interface 15.

[0052] The input unit 16 is composed of, for example, a keyboard or the like and inputs various information. The output unit 17 is composed of a display such as a liquid crystal display or a speaker or the like and outputs various information as images or sounds. The storage unit 18 is composed of a DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory) or the like and stores various data. The communication unit 19 communicates with other devices (for example, the user terminal 2, the sensor-equipped bottle 3, the camera 4, etc. in FIG. 2) via a network NW including the Internet.

[0053] A removable medium 31 made of a magnetic disk, an optical disk, a magneto-optical disk, or a semiconductor memory or the like is appropriately mounted on the drive 20. A program read from the removable medium 31 by the drive 20 is installed in the storage unit 18 as necessary. In addition, the removable medium 31 can also store various data stored in the storage unit 18, just like the storage unit 18.

[0054] Although not shown in the figure, the user terminal 2, the sensor-equipped bottle 3, and the camera 4 in FIG. 2 can also have basically the same configuration as the hardware configuration shown in FIG. 3. Therefore, the description of the hardware configuration of the user terminal 2, the sensor-equipped bottle 3, and the camera 4 is omitted. However, the sensor-equipped bottle 3 is provided with sensors (such as an acceleration sensor or a water level sensor) for information on the achievements related to a specific action (here, drinking water) of the user U as the input unit 16. In addition, the camera 4 is provided with an imaging unit or the like for imaging the surroundings including the user U as the input unit 16. In addition, the wearable sensor 5 is provided with sensors (such as a heart rate sensor, a pulse oximeter, and an acceleration sensor) for acquiring information (status information) indicating a specific state of the user U as the input unit 16. In addition, the electric kettle 6 is provided with a heater or the like for boiling water as the output unit 17.

[0055] By the cooperation of various hardware and various software that make up the information processing system of FIG. 2 including the dialogue system 1 of FIG. 3, it becomes possible to execute various processes for realizing the present service of FIG. 1 described above. As a result, the service provider can provide the user with the present service described above.

[0056] FIG. 4 is a functional block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the dialogue system of FIG. 3 included in the information processing system of FIG. 2.

[0057] As shown in FIG. 4, in the CPU 11 of the dialogue system 1, a dialogue unit 51, an action achievement information acquisition unit 52, a status information acquisition unit 53, a dialogue content information generation unit 54, and a specific action preparation unit 55 function. In an area of the storage unit 18 of the dialogue system 1, an action achievement information DB 81, a dialogue content information DB 82, and a status information DB 83 are provided.

[0058] The dialogue unit 51 has a chatbot function and conducts a dialogue with a predetermined user to obtain dialogue information. That is, the dialogue unit 51 includes a dialogue control unit 61 and a dialogue information acquisition unit 62.

[0059] The dialogue control unit 61 executes control for the user U to conduct a dialogue via dedicated application software that enables the use of this service pre-installed on the user terminal 2. That is, for example, the dialogue control unit 61 executes control for the user U to conduct a dialogue based on a model capable of outputting natural language for making calls and responses to the user U created using AI technology. In other words, through the control of the dialogue control unit 61, the user U can conduct a dialogue with AI via the user terminal 2 and the dedicated application software installed on the user terminal 2.

[0060] In this way, the dialogue control unit 61 functions as a so-called chatbot. Although details will be described later, the dialogue control unit 61 operates to realize the dialogue content generated by the dialogue content information generation unit 54 described later.

[0061] The dialogue information acquisition unit 62 acquires information regarding the content of the dialogue between the user U and the chatbot conducted under the control of the dialogue control unit 61, that is, dialogue information. The dialogue content information DB 82 is a database that stores information regarding the content of the dialogue between the user U and the chatbot, that is, dialogue content information, as a result of the control of the dialogue control unit 61. The dialogue content information is associated with the user U and stored in the dialogue content information DB 82.

[0062] The action performance information acquisition unit 52 acquires action performance information related to a specific action of the user U (for example, drinking water). That is, for example, the action performance information acquisition unit 52 acquires action performance information indicating that the user U has drunk water, which is analyzed based on the result of the user U using the sensor-equipped bottle 3. Also, for example, the action performance information acquisition unit 52 acquires action performance information indicating that the user U has drunk water, which is analyzed based on the data of the image captured by the camera 4 of the user U who has drunk water. The action performance information DB 81 is a database that stores the action performance information acquired by the action performance information acquisition unit 52. The action performance information is linked to the user U and stored in the action performance information DB 82.

[0063] The state information acquisition unit 53 acquires specific state information of the user U. That is, for example, the state information acquisition unit 53 acquires state information that contributes to the evaluation of whether the user U should drink water, which is analyzed based on the data of the image captured by the camera 4 of the user U who has drunk water. Also, for example, the state information acquisition unit 53 acquires state information that contributes to the evaluation of whether the user U should drink water, which is analyzed based on various information of the user U acquired by the wearable sensor 5 worn by the user U. The state information DB 83 is a database that stores the state information acquired by the state information acquisition unit 53. The state information is linked to the user U and stored in the state information DB 83.

[0064] The dialogue content information generation unit 54 generates dialogue content information for enhancing the motivation of the user U for a specific action based on the action performance information of the user U. That is, for example, when the user U has not performed drinking water (an example of a specific action) based on the action performance information, the dialogue content information generation unit 54 generates dialogue content information for enhancing the motivation of the user U to drink water.

[0065] Also, for example, the dialogue content information generation unit 54 further generates dialogue content information for enhancing the motivation of the user U for a specific action based on the state information of the user U. That is, for example, based on the state information indicating that the amount of body water of the user U is low, the dialogue content information generation unit 54 evaluates that the user U should perform drinking water (specific action), and generates dialogue content information for enhancing the motivation of the user U to drink water.

[0066] Also, for example, based on both the action performance information and the state information of the user U, the dialogue content information generation unit 54 can also generate dialogue content information for enhancing the motivation of the user U for a specific action.

[0067] Here, for example, in order to enhance the motivation of the user U to perform a specific action, the dialogue content information generation unit 54 generates, as the dialogue content, content including one or more of the following explanations. Specifically, for example, the dialogue content information generation unit 54 provides the user U with the content of the specific action that the user U should perform as the dialogue content.

[0068] Based on the action performance information or the state information of the user U, the specific action preparation unit 55 prepares articles and services used for the user U to drink water (an example of a specific action). Specifically, for example, based on the action performance information indicating that the performance of the user U drinking water is insufficient or the state information indicating that the drinking water is insufficient, the electric kettle 6 can be controlled as the preparation for the user U to drink water to boil water.

[0069] Based on the physical condition improvement information, the dialogue control unit 61 executes control for interacting with the user U. That is, for example, the dialogue control unit 61 can execute control for a dialogue for providing the user U with physical condition improvement information. Specifically, for example, based on the physical condition improvement information indicating that the user U should drink water, the dialogue control unit 61 executes control for interacting with the user U by calling out "Let's drink water".

[0070] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of a dialogue screen among the user interfaces provided by the dialogue system having the functional configuration of FIG. 4. Under the control of the dialogue control unit 61, a dialogue is conducted as shown in FIG. 5. Among the dialogue screens shown in FIG. 5, the utterances from the left side are from the chatbot (dialogue system 1, particularly the dialogue unit 51), and the utterances from the right side are from the user U.

[0071] In the dialogue screen shown in FIG. 5, the user U is saying, "I drank two cups of water at lunch." In response to this, the chatbot (dialogue system 1) responds with, "Let's keep drinking water like that," and a dialogue is being conducted. In this way, the chatbot (dialogue system 1) can engage in dialogue with the user U including in daily conversations. In this way, when the user U is performing a specific action (here, drinking water), the dialogue system 1 can conduct a dialogue to praise it. As a result, the user U can be motivated to continue performing the specific action.

[0072] After that, the chatbot (dialogue system 1) says to the user U, "It's 3 o'clock. After lunch, are you drinking water? Today's goal is another liter. Please drink water frequently." The dialogue is conducted by the user U reading this. In this way, based on action performance information indicating that the user U is not performing a specific action (here, drinking water), the dialogue system 1 can conduct a dialogue with the user U to suggest that the user U should perform the specific action. As a result, the user U can be motivated to continue performing the specific action.

[0073] Here, in particular, the relationship between insufficient body water volume in the elderly and diseases will be explained below.

[0074] Water intake is very important for maintaining health. As follows, it is particularly beneficial for preventing dementia and improving the level of care for the elderly.

[0075] First, it is related to cognitive function and water intake. About 75% of the human brain is composed of water. Therefore, if appropriate water intake is ensured, the health of the brain is maintained, and cognitive functions such as thinking and memory work properly. Conversely, when in a dehydrated state, brain function declines, and there is a possibility of confusion, headache, reduced concentration, and an increased risk of dementia in the long term. Second, it is related to physical function and water intake. Water intake also affects physical functions such as body temperature regulation, transportation of nutrients, digestion, and excretion. If these functions do not work well, the overall health of the body declines, and as a result, the degree of care may increase. Third, there is a risk of dehydration. The elderly are said to be more prone to dehydration than the young. This is because the ability to retain body water decreases and it becomes difficult to feel thirsty. Furthermore, due to side effects of certain drugs or dementia, it may become difficult to voluntarily intake water.

[0076] By appropriately intaking water, it is possible to prevent dehydration and the decline of physical and cognitive functions. However, in order to get the elderly to appropriately intake water, it is necessary to increase the opportunities for water intake in daily life, provide water in the form of tea or soup, record the amount of water intake, and check whether an appropriate amount is being ingested.

[0077] However, there may be restrictions on water intake due to certain medical conditions or the use of drugs. Therefore, it is advisable to consult a medical professional regarding specific methods and amounts of water intake.

[0078] The adverse effects due to insufficient body water volume in the elderly will be further explained below. Insufficient body water volume in the elderly is the main cause of dehydration and may cause various problems. This is caused by a decrease in the overall amount of food intake, a decrease in water intake due to dysphagia, etc. There are three types of dehydration: hypertonic dehydration, isotonic dehydration, and hypotonic dehydration. These are defined by the difference in the balance of salt and water in the body. As the body's water content decreases with age, the elderly are more prone to dehydration. In addition, the elderly have the characteristic that it is difficult to feel thirst and other symptoms of dehydration. Therefore, it is important to consciously replenish water.

[0079] Dehydration may seem like a minor problem at first glance, but in fact, it can cause many health problems. These include a decrease in blood flow, an increased burden on the heart, a decline in kidney function, constipation, an increased risk of urinary tract infections, and ultimately, it may also cause confusion and lethargy. Therefore, appropriate water replenishment is very important in the health management of the elderly. In particular, during daily activities, on hot days, and during the recovery period from illness, it is necessary to be more conscious of water intake.

[0080] What diseases can these health problems lead to? Specific examples will be explained below. Insufficient body water and dehydration in the elderly may lead to the following specific diseases. First, it may lead to problems in the circulatory system. Dehydration can inhibit blood circulation and potentially place an excessive burden on the heart. This may ultimately cause heart disease. Second, it may lead to problems in kidney diseases. Without an appropriate amount of water, the kidneys cannot produce enough urine to excrete toxins and unnecessary substances. In the long term, kidney function may decline, potentially causing kidney disease. Third, it may lead to problems with constipation. Insufficient water in the body can cause the stool to harden, potentially leading to constipation. This may further cause more serious conditions such as intestinal obstruction. Fourth, it may lead to problems with urinary tract infections. Dehydration can reduce urine output and potentially increase the risk of urinary tract infections. Fifth, it may lead to problems in the nervous system. Severe dehydration can cause confusion and lethargy, which may lead to brain dysfunction.

[0081] The above information shows some of the health problems that dehydration can cause. However, by ensuring that the elderly consume sufficient amounts of water, these risks can be significantly reduced. Additionally, by fully understanding medical and health information and making appropriate lifestyle choices, these risks can be further minimized.

[0082] Regarding the brain dysfunction caused by the decrease in the body's water volume in the elderly, based on specific diseases, the following will be explained.

[0083] One of the brain dysfunctions caused by the decrease in the body's water volume in the elderly is dehydration symptoms. The elderly have less water in their bodies and tend not to easily feel thirsty in the throat, and there are cases where they cannot consume sufficient amounts of water. Also, due to a decrease in water intake through diet, they are prone to dehydration symptoms. Dehydration symptoms can potentially cause brain dysfunction by worsening blood circulation due to insufficient water in the body and reducing the supply of oxygen and nutrients to the brain.

[0084] Brain dysfunction caused by dehydration symptoms may accelerate the progression of dementia. Dementia is a general term for symptoms of reduced brain function commonly seen in the elderly. Dementia is a disease in which cognitive functions such as memory, thinking ability, judgment, and language ability decline, and its progression may interfere with daily life. Insufficient water due to dehydration symptoms may prevent the supply of nutrients and oxygen necessary to maintain normal brain function and may worsen the symptoms of dementia.

[0085] Moreover, dehydration symptoms in the elderly are also related to frailty. Frailty is a concept that refers to the decline and weakness of the physical functions of the elderly, and with aging, a decrease in muscle strength, a feeling of fatigue, a decrease in walking speed, and a decrease in physical activity can be observed. A decrease in the body's water volume due to dehydration symptoms is cited as one of the causes of frailty. If dehydration symptoms persist, the decline in muscle strength and physical activity in the elderly may progress, and as a result, it may also affect brain function.

[0086] As described above, specific diseases of brain dysfunction due to decreased body water content in the elderly include dehydration symptoms, dementia related thereto, and frailty. For maintaining the health of the elderly, sufficient water intake and appropriate physical activity are important, and it is crucial to prevent dehydration symptoms. When the body water content decreases and the body enters a state of dehydration, many health problems occur especially in the elderly. Among them, problems related to the circulatory system are particularly serious, and the following diseases can be cited.

[0087] First, low blood pressure can be cited. Dehydration reduces the volume of blood, which may thereby lower blood pressure. This may cause problems such as dizziness, fainting, or falling. Second, myocardial infarction can be cited. Dehydration makes the blood thicker, and as a result, blood flow may deteriorate. This may reduce the ability to carry oxygen necessary for the heart and increase the risk of myocardial infarction. Third, stroke can be cited. When the blood concentration increases, blood clots (thrombi) are likely to form in the blood, and if this flows into the brain, it may cause a stroke.

[0088] As described above, the state of dehydration has a great impact on the health of the circulatory system. In particular, the elderly have less body water, are less likely to feel thirsty in the throat, and tend not to drink much water, so they tend to develop dehydration symptoms. Furthermore, the decline in kidney function due to aging is also considered to be a cause of falling into dehydration. The kidneys play a role in regulating the body water content, but when the function declines, the ability to retain necessary water and electrolytes in the body weakens. Therefore, it can be said that the importance of water intake in the elderly is very high.

[0089] Similarly, problems of kidney diseases will be described below by citing specific diseases. The kidneys play a very important role in the human body. However, when the function of the kidneys deteriorates due to various factors, many kidney diseases occur. Some of the main kidney diseases are listed below.

[0090] First, there is chronic kidney disease (CKD). This is a condition where the function of the kidneys continuously deteriorates, and there are various causes. Symptoms are hardly visible in the initial stage, but as it progresses, changes in urine volume, swelling, fatigue, etc. appear. Second, there is diabetic nephropathy. This is one of the complications of diabetes, where diabetes damages the kidneys over a long period, resulting in a decline in kidney function. Third, there is IgA nephropathy. This is a disease in which immunoglobulin A (IgA) abnormally accumulates in the kidneys, causing inflammation. In many cases, there are no symptoms in the initial stage and it progresses over time. Fourth, there is acute kidney injury. This is a state where the kidneys rapidly lose their function in a short period. The causes are various, including low blood pressure, heart disease, dehydration, infections, etc.

[0091] There are many types of kidney diseases, each with different symptoms, courses, and treatment methods. Since early detection of the disease and appropriate treatment are important, it is advisable to undergo regular health checks and receive advice from experts.

[0092] Specifically, it will be explained below what diseases constipation caused by a decrease in the body's water content leads to. A decrease in the body's water content in the elderly is one of the factors causing constipation. When the body lacks water, the feces become hard and difficult to excrete. This is one of the reasons why the elderly are prone to constipation, and it is thought that aging affects the change in the body's water content. Constipation can be directly linked to various health problems that occur in the body. One of them is colorectal cancer. When constipation becomes chronic, the feces remain in the large intestine, and as a result, harmful substances come into contact with the wall of the large intestine for a long time. This may increase the risk of colorectal cancer.

[0093] Also, constipation can cause hemorrhoids (so-called "piles"). When excreting hard feces due to constipation, pressure is applied to the blood vessels in the anus, which may cause hemorrhoids. Furthermore, constipation can also cause other digestive system diseases, such as symptoms like abdominal discomfort, abdominal fullness, and loss of appetite. These symptoms can significantly reduce the quality of life and may, in some cases, be signs of serious illnesses. Therefore, managing the body water content in the elderly is very important in preventing these diseases. By appropriately replenishing water, it is possible to prevent constipation and reduce the risk of these diseases.

[0094] Furthermore, the impact on cognitive function caused by a decrease in body water content will be explained below.

[0095] When the body water content decreases, it causes dehydration symptoms. Especially in the elderly, if the body does not have enough water, physical discomfort and a decline in cognitive function are likely to occur. First of all, the body water content is very important for the body to function properly. This is because water is involved in the transportation of substances, the regulation of body temperature, and metabolism in each cell of the body. That is to say, if the body water content is insufficient, these important functions may not work well, which may affect overall health.

[0096] Specifically regarding cognitive function, about 85% of the brain is composed of water, and its water balance plays an important role. In a dehydrated state, blood flow may decrease, which may lead to insufficient oxygen supply to the brain. When this happens, each part of the brain, especially the parts that control cognitive functions such as memory, consciousness, and attention, may not function properly.

[0097] The dehydrated state can also inhibit the function of synapses (connection parts that connect nerve cells) in the brain and delay information transmission. When this occurs, cognitive functions such as memory, comprehension, decision-making ability, and attention decline. Therefore, especially in the case of the elderly, it is very important to regularly intake sufficient water to maintain cognitive function.

[0098] The following will explain how dehydration symptoms affect the progression of dementia and Alzheimer's disease. When in a dehydrated state, it may affect the function of the brain. Specifically, in a dehydrated state, blood flow may decrease, and the oxygen supply to the brain may be insufficient. This may lead to a decline in the function of each part of the brain, especially the part that controls cognitive function.

[0099] Also, a dehydrated state may disrupt the balance of neurotransmitters and inhibit information transmission between nerve cells. This may cause a decline in cognitive ability and confusion in consciousness, which may exacerbate the symptoms of dementia and Alzheimer's disease.

[0100] A dehydrated state may cause a temporary decline in cognitive function, but if this continues, it may also have long-term effects. Especially in the case of the elderly, it is said that it is difficult to maintain the body's water volume, so a dehydrated state is likely to persist for a long time. This may accelerate the progression of dementia and Alzheimer's disease in the long term.

[0101] However, dehydration is not the direct cause of dementia and Alzheimer's disease. Those conditions are caused and progress due to complex factors. However, a dehydrated state may exacerbate the symptoms of those conditions and make management difficult. Therefore, even in the case of the elderly, appropriate water replenishment is important for maintaining cognitive function and also for managing the symptoms of dementia and Alzheimer's disease.

[0102] Figure 6 is a diagram that medically classifies diseases caused by a decrease in the body's water volume. As shown in Figure 6, a decrease in the body's water volume may cause diseases in various medical fields. The importance of water replenishment is particularly heightened in the elderly. A dehydrated state may have an adverse effect on the health of the elderly, especially on cognitive function. Therefore, appropriate water replenishment and observation of the health status of the elderly are important.

[0103] The above describes one embodiment of the present invention. However, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and modifications, improvements, etc. within the scope that can achieve the object of the present invention are considered to be included in the present invention.

[0104] In the above-described embodiment, the chat by the chatbot (dialogue unit 51) is assumed to be in the form of characters as shown in FIG. 5, but it is not particularly limited. That is, for example, the chatbot (dialogue unit 51) may be performed in other forms such as voice. Also, for example, the chat by the chatbot (dialogue unit 51) may be performed in a combination of various forms such as characters, voice, pictures, etc.

[0105] For example, the system configuration shown in FIG. 2 and the hardware configuration of the dialogue system 1 shown in FIG. 3 are merely examples for achieving the object of the present invention and are not particularly limited.

[0106] Also, the functional block diagram shown in FIG. 4 is merely an example and is not particularly limited. That is, it is sufficient that the information processing system in FIG. 2 is provided with a function capable of executing the above-described various processes as a whole, and the functional blocks and databases used to realize this function are not particularly limited to the example in FIG. 4.

[0107] Also, the location of the functional blocks and databases is not limited to FIG. 4 and may be arbitrary. For example, at least a part of the functional blocks and databases arranged on the side of the dialogue system 1 may be transferred to the user terminal 2 side or another information processing device (not shown). For example, in the above-described embodiment, since the user interface is a web page of a predetermined website, the functional configuration as shown in FIG. 4 is adopted. For example, when the user interface is configured by application software installed in the user terminal 2, at least a part of the functional blocks existing in the dialogue system 1 may be transferred to the user terminal 2.

[0108] In addition, the above-described series of processes can be executed by hardware or by software. Also, one functional block may be configured by hardware alone, by software alone, or by a combination thereof.

[0109] When the series of processes are executed by software, the program constituting the software is installed in a computer or the like from a network or a recording medium. The computer may be a computer incorporated in dedicated hardware. Also, the computer may be a computer capable of executing various functions by installing various programs, such as a general-purpose smartphone or personal computer in addition to a server.

[0110] A recording medium containing such a program is not only constituted by a removable medium (not shown) distributed separately from the apparatus main body for providing the program to the user, but also constituted by a recording medium or the like provided to the user in a state pre-installed in the apparatus main body.

[0111] Note that in this specification, the step of describing the program recorded on the recording medium includes not only the processes performed in time series according to the order, but also the processes executed in parallel or individually even if they are not necessarily processed in time series.

[0112] To summarize the above, the information processing apparatus to which the present invention is applied only needs to have the following configuration and can take various embodiments. That is, the dialogue apparatus (for example, the dialogue system 1 in FIG. 4) to which the present invention is applied has dialogue means (for example, the dialogue unit 51 in FIG. 4) for daily dialogue with a predetermined user, and action result information acquisition means (for example, the action result information acquisition unit 52 in FIG. 4) for acquiring action result information related to a specific action (for example, drinking water) of the predetermined user. Conversation content generation means (for example, the conversation content information generation unit 54 in FIG. 4) that generates conversation content information for enhancing the motivation of the predetermined user for the specific action based on the action performance information; comprising; The conversation means outputs a conversation to the predetermined user based on the conversation content information. Conversation device.

[0113] The state information acquisition means (for example, the state information acquisition unit 53) for acquiring specific state information of the predetermined user is further provided; The conversation content generation means further generates the conversation content information based on the specific state information. It can be.

[0114] The conversation content setting means generates conversation content information that praises the achievement of the specific action of the predetermined user according to the achievement of the specific action based on the action performance information. It can be.

[0115] The specific action preparation means (for example, the specific action preparation unit 55) for preparing articles and services used for the specific action is further provided based on the action performance information or the state information. It can be.

Explanation of Signs

[0116] 1... Conversation system, 2... User terminal, 3... Sensor-equipped bottle, 4... Camera, 5... Wearable sensor, 6... Electric kettle, 11... CPU, 18... Storage unit, 31... Removable media, 51... Conversation unit, 52... Action performance information acquisition unit, 53... State information acquisition unit, 54... Conversation content information generation unit, 55... Specific action preparation unit, 61... Conversation control unit, 62... Conversation information acquisition unit, 81... Action performance information DB, 82... Conversation content information DB, 83... State information DB

Claims

1. dialogue means for routinely interacting with a predetermined user; behavior performance information acquisition means for acquiring behavior performance information related to specific behaviors of the predetermined user; dialogue content generation means for generating dialogue content information for enhancing the motivation of the predetermined user for the specific behavior based on the behavior performance information; comprising: the dialogue means outputs a dialogue to the predetermined user based on the dialogue content information; a dialogue device.

2. state information acquisition means for acquiring specific state information of the predetermined user, further comprising: the dialogue content generation means further generates the dialogue content information based on the state information; the dialogue device according to Claim 1.

3. the dialogue content generation means generates dialogue content information for praising the achievement of the goal of the specific behavior of the predetermined user according to the achievement of the goal of the specific behavior of the predetermined user based on the behavior performance information; the dialogue device according to Claim 1.

4. specific behavior preparation means for preparing articles and services used for the specific behavior based on the behavior performance information or the state information; further comprising: the dialogue device according to Claim 2.

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