Incense production method, information processing system, information processing method, and program

Abstract

To produce incense which is individualized according to constitutions and tastes of individual users.SOLUTION: In an incense production method, a step S1 obtains a determination result of a constitution of a user, then a step S2 determines the type of the constitution of the user, and a step S3 selects a herbal medicine according to the type of the constitution. A step S4 distills the herbal medicine, and thereby obtains aroma distilled water. Then, when a step S7 selects one or more aroma raw materials by the user, then a step S8 blends the aroma raw materials, and a step S11 adds the aroma distilled water to the aroma raw materials, and thereby obtains an aroma material. A step S12 kneads the aroma material, a step S13 molds the aroma material, and a step S14 dries the aroma material. Thereby, the above steps complete incense.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an incense manufacturing method, an information processing system, an information processing method, and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] A technology has been proposed that assists in creating incense with a scent of one's choice (for example, Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2025-024652 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, no technology has been proposed for producing incense that is personalized to the constitution and preferences of each individual user.

[0005] The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and aims to make it possible to produce incense that is personalized to the constitution and preferences of each individual user. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In order to achieve the above object, one aspect of the present invention is to a determination step of determining the type of constitution of the user based on a determination result of the constitution of the user based on a predetermined determination criterion; a selection step of selecting a herbal medicine according to the determined constitution type; a distillation step of distilling the selected herbal medicine to obtain aromatic distilled water; a blending step of blending one or more fragrance raw materials selected by the user; a kneading step of kneading the fragrance material obtained by adding the aromatic distilled water to the blended fragrance raw materials; a molding step of molding the kneaded fragrance material; a drying step of drying the formed fragrance material; A method for producing incense comprising:

[0007] An information processing system, an information processing method, and a program corresponding to the incense manufacturing method according to one aspect of the present invention are also provided as an information processing system, an information processing method, and a program corresponding to the incense manufacturing method according to one aspect of the present invention. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] The present invention allows for the production of personalized incense that is tailored to the constitution and preferences of each individual user. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] 1 is a flowchart showing an example of an incense manufacturing method according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of the overall configuration of an information processing system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] 3 is a block diagram showing an example of a hardware configuration of a management server that constitutes the information processing system of FIG. 2. FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram illustrating an example of a functional configuration of a management server. [Figure 5] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a processing flow of a management server. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing specific examples of questions presented to users participating in the incense making experience. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a specific example of a distiller used in the incense making experience. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] Hereinafter, this embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. <Incense manufacturing method> FIG. 1 is a flowchart showing an example of a method for producing incense according to one embodiment of the present invention. As shown in Figure 1, in the incense manufacturing method according to one embodiment of the present invention, once a user's constitution has been determined based on a predetermined criterion (YES in step S1), the method determines the user's constitution type (step S2). Hereinafter, this process of determining the user's constitution type will be referred to as the "determination process." On the other hand, if a user's constitution has not yet been determined (NO in step S1), the determination in step S1 is repeated until a user's constitution is determined.

[0011] Here, the criteria for determining the user's constitution are not particularly limited. For example, as the criteria, questions regarding each of eight types of constitution (Qi deficiency, blood deficiency, Yang deficiency, Yin deficiency, Qi stagnation, blood stagnation, phlegm and dampness, and damp heat) may be created and the user may answer them. In this case, the user's constitution type is determined from the eight types of constitution based on the content of the user's answers to the questions.

[0012] Of the eight types of constitution, "Qi deficiency" refers to a state in which the body lacks qi, resulting in a weak stomach and intestines that easily tire. In a state of Qi deficiency, the stomach and intestines that produce energy are weak, leading to symptoms such as fatigue and lack of motivation. "Blood deficiency" refers to a state in which the body lacks blood. In a state of blood deficiency, symptoms such as insufficient nutrition reaching organs, tissues, and meridians are seen due to the lack of blood. "Yang deficiency" refers to a state in which the body is naturally lacking in energy. In a state of yang deficiency, symptoms such as the body being extremely cold are seen due to the inability to generate enough heat from birth. "Yin deficiency" refers to a state in which the body lacks water. In a state of yin deficiency, symptoms such as a decrease in the function of energy due to dryness are seen.

[0013] "Qi stagnation" refers to a state in which the circulation of qi is stagnant and heat is trapped. Qi stagnation can easily lead to yin deficiency, blood deficiency, and blood congestion. "Blood congestion" is a condition that is likely to occur due to qi stagnation, in which blood stagnates and the circulation of blood is stagnant. "Phlegm and dampness" refers to a condition in which the circulation of fluids is stagnated due to qi deficiency, blood deficiency, blood congestion, or qi stagnation, causing fluids to turn into phlegm and accumulate in the body, resulting in illness. "Damp heat" is a condition that is likely to occur when a person with qi stagnation takes in too much water or suffers from persistent blood congestion, causing excess water and heat to stagnate in the body, resulting in illness. Of the eight types of constitutions, phlegm and dampness and damp heat are considered particularly severe.

[0014] Next, herbal medicines are selected according to the user's constitution type determined in step S2 (step S3). Hereinafter, the process of selecting herbal medicines according to the user's constitution type will be referred to as the "selection process." In the selection process, for example, if the user's constitution type determined in the determination process is qi deficiency, one or more of the herbal medicines jujube, licorice, and astragalus may be selected. Also, if the user's constitution type determined is blood deficiency, one or more of the herbal medicines angelica, polyhedron, and golden needle cabbage may be selected. If the user's constitution type determined is yang deficiency, one or more of the herbal medicines du zhong, cinnamon, and dried ginger may be selected. Also, if the user's constitution type determined is yin deficiency, one or more of the herbal medicines wolfberry, lily root, and black sesame may be selected. Also, if the user's constitution type determined is qi stagnation, one or more of the herbal medicines tangerine peel, maikai flower, and cardamom may be selected. Furthermore, if the determined constitutional type of the user is blood-thirsty, one or more of turmeric, safflower, and miltiorrhiza may be selected as herbal medicines. Furthermore, if the determined constitutional type of the user is phlegm-damp, one or more of chrysanthemum, bitter apricot kernel, and biwa leaf may be selected as herbal medicines. Furthermore, if the determined constitutional type of the user is damp-heat, one or more of goldleaf, chrysanthemum, and osmanthus may be selected as herbal medicines.

[0015] Next, the medicinal herbs selected in step S3 are distilled to obtain aromatic distilled water (step S4). Hereinafter, the process of distilling the medicinal herbs to obtain aromatic distilled water will be referred to as the "distillation process." In the distillation process, aromatic distilled water is obtained by distilling the medicinal herbs using a specified distiller. Next, if a test burning of the incense ingredients is to be performed (YES in step S5), the user's preferences are confirmed through the test burning (step S6) and the process proceeds to the decision in step S7. Hereinafter, the process of confirming the user's preferences through the test burning will be referred to as the "confirmation process." In the confirmation process, the user is informed of the characteristics of each of the multiple incense ingredients, and the incense ingredients are burned on heated charcoal and the user is asked to smell the smoke to confirm whether or not the scent is to their liking. On the other hand, if a test burning of the incense ingredients is not to be performed (NO in step S5), step S6 is skipped (i.e., without going through the confirmation process) and the process proceeds to the decision in step S7.

[0016] When the user selects one or more incense ingredients (YES in step S7), the selected one or more incense ingredients are blended (step S8). Hereinafter, the process of blending incense ingredients is referred to as the "blending process." In the blending process, the user may select and blend one or more of the following incense ingredients: agarwood, sandalwood, cinnamon, clove, cinnamon bark, anise, borneol, scutellaria, wild jasmine, wood spice, baichou, benzoin, frankincense, and shellfish spice. Specifically, for example, the user selects his or her favorite incense ingredients, places them in a mortar, and mixes them thoroughly with a pestle to blend them. Also, in the blending process, the incense ingredients selected by the user are blended with oak flour, which serves as a base material. Specifically, for example, the oak flour is placed in a mortar and mixed thoroughly with a pestle. "Oak flour" is powdered bark of the Tabu tree, which belongs to the Lauraceae family. On the other hand, if the user has not selected one or more fragrance ingredients (NO in step S7), the determination in step S7 is repeated until the user has selected one or more fragrance ingredients.

[0017] Furthermore, if the user is satisfied with the strength of the fragrance of the fragrance ingredients blended in step S8 (YES in step S9), the process proceeds to step S11. On the other hand, if the user is not satisfied (NO in step S9), a predetermined fragrance is added to the fragrance ingredients blended in step S8 (step S10), and the process proceeds to step S11. Hereinafter, the process of adding a predetermined fragrance to the blended fragrance ingredients will be referred to as the "additional blending process." The "predetermined fragrance" added in the additional blending process is, for example, a natural fragrance, a synthetic fragrance, etc.

[0018] Next, the aromatic distilled water obtained in step S4 is added (step S11) to the incense raw materials blended in step S8 or the additional incense raw materials blended in step S10, thereby kneading the resulting incense material (step S12). Hereinafter, the process of kneading the incense material obtained by adding the aromatic distilled water is referred to as the "kneading process." Next, the incense material kneaded in the kneading process is shaped (step S13). Hereinafter, the process of shaping the incense material is referred to as the "shaping process." Note that there are no particular limitations on how the incense material is shaped in the shaping process. For example, the incense material may be shaped into a rod shape (stick shape) or a cone shape (cone shape) depending on the user's usage situation and purpose. This allows the user to manufacture incense in a shape that suits the user's usage environment and purpose. As a result, the ease and convenience of incense is improved. Furthermore, the user can experientially understand the difference in combustion depending on the shape, thereby gaining the knowledge to select the shape depending on the usage situation.

[0019] Next, the molded incense material is dried (Step S14). Hereinafter, the process of drying the incense material will be referred to as the "drying process." This completes the incense that suits the user's constitution and preferences (END).

[0020] <Incense making experience> The incense making method described above can be applied to a service that allows users to experience incense making (hereinafter referred to as the "incense making experience"). Users who participate in the incense making experience have their own constitution type determined by answering questions related to each of the eight constitution types described above. The questions may be presented to the user and the user's answers to the questions may be conducted on the day of the incense making experience. In this case, for example, the confirmation process described above may involve presenting and answering the questions while burning aromatic distilled water. At this time, the user may be instructed on how to smell the aromatic distilled water when it is burned. Specifically, for example, the user may be instructed to imagine inhaling the scent through the nose, taking it into the lungs, and it flowing through the blood vessels in the lungs. Furthermore, in the process of having the user select incense ingredients, suggestions may be made, such as, "These incense ingredients are recommended for your constitution." Furthermore, if the scent of the suggested incense ingredients does not match the user's preferences, the user may be allowed to freely select the incense ingredients they prefer without being forced to do so. The questions and answers may be presented and answered online prior to the incense making experience (for example, about one week prior). In this case, the service provider can prepare in advance, which can improve the efficiency of the service provided on the day of the incense making experience.

[0021] By participating in an incense-making experience, users can enjoy crafting incense tailored to their preferences using herbal medicines selected according to their constitutional type. The incense-making experience is not just a crafting experience; it also functions as a learning opportunity, offering classroom benefits such as knowledge acquisition, skill development, health maintenance, stress relief, and networking. The incense-making experience also functions as a service that provides participating users with a "comfortable space" and a place to "enlighten" users. For example, playing music tailored to the user's constitutional type during the incense-making experience can enhance the relaxing effect. Participating in the incense-making experience can also be expected to lead to "enlightenment" about the need for relaxation not only during the experience but also in daily life after returning home. In addition, users of all ages and genders can participate in the incense-making experience. For example, an adult male user can casually visit the store after work and participate in the incense-making experience.

[0022] Furthermore, users who participate in the incense making experience can take home the incense materials kneaded during the experience in a semi-hard state. In this case, the scent of the semi-hard incense materials changes as they dry in the user's home. Specifically, the scent initially smells like aromatic distilled water, but gradually changes to the scent of the incense ingredients. Furthermore, users who participate in the incense making experience are presented with a "sachet" that matches the user's constitution type as a memento of their participation. This allows users to carry the gifted sachet around and enjoy the daily relaxation effect. It may also be possible to purchase aroma oils that match the user's constitution type.

[0023] The incense making experience described above is a service provided by a service provider to users, and is provided as a service that can be realized, for example, by the information processing system described below.

[0024] <Information Processing System S> FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the overall configuration of an information processing system S according to one embodiment of the present invention. An information processing system S according to one embodiment of the present invention is an information processing system that is applied to the incense making experience described above.

[0025] The information processing system S is configured by connecting a management server 1, user terminals 2-1 to 2-n (n is an integer value equal to or greater than 1), and a store terminal 3 via a network N. The network N is, for example, the Internet, a LAN (Local Area Network), or a VPN (Virtual Private Network). Hereinafter, when there is no need to explain each of the user terminals 2-1 to 2-n individually, they will be collectively referred to as the "user terminal 2."

[0026] [Management Server 1] The management server 1 is an information processing device that serves as a server for managing the entire information processing system S. The management server 1 is managed, for example, by a service provider that offers an incense-making experience. The management server 1 is capable of executing a predetermined application program that makes the information processing system S available. The management server 1 acquires various types of information transmitted from the user terminal 2, the store terminal 3, and external devices, and is capable of executing various processes. The management server 1 also transmits various types of information to the user terminal 2, the store terminal 3, and external devices, and is capable of executing various processes.

[0027] For example, the management server 1 manages questions related to each of the eight constitution types described above and presents the questions to users who plan to participate in the incense making experience. Specifically, the management server 1 presents the questions to the user by displaying them on a user terminal 2 operated by the user. Then, upon receiving the user's answers to the questions, the management server 1 determines the user's constitution type based on the content of the answers, and presents the user with information about herbal medicines corresponding to the determined constitution type (hereinafter referred to as "herbal medicine information"). Specifically, the management server 1 presents the user's constitution type and herbal medicine information to the user by displaying them on a user terminal 2 operated by the user.

[0028] The management server 1 also manages the past blending history of fragrance ingredients obtained by adding aromatic distilled water to fragrance raw materials as information about the user (hereinafter referred to as "user information"). In this case, the management server 1 can suggest new blends of fragrance raw materials to the user based on the user's past blending history. Specifically, the management server 1 makes suggestions to the user by displaying information about new blends of fragrance raw materials on the user terminal 2 operated by the user. Here, the past blending history as user information includes preference information, which is the result of confirming the user's preferences by test burning fragrance raw materials in the confirmation process described above.

[0029] The management server 1 also manages information relating to the procedure for blending one or more fragrance raw materials in the blending process (hereinafter referred to as "blending procedure information"). In this case, the management server 1 is able to present the blending procedure information to the user. Specifically, the management server 1 presents the blending procedure information to the user by displaying it on the user terminal 2 operated by the user. The management server 1 also presents the molding conditions for molding the fragrance material in the molding process and the drying conditions for drying the fragrance material in the drying process to the user. Specifically, the management server 1 presents the molding conditions and drying conditions to the user by displaying them on the user terminal 2 operated by the user. The configuration and processing of the management server 1 will be described in detail below.

[0030] [User terminal 2] The user terminal 2 is an information processing device operated by a user participating in the incense making experience. The user terminal 2 may be, for example, a smartphone, a tablet terminal, or a personal computer. The user terminal 2 is capable of executing a predetermined application program that displays questions to be presented to participants in the incense making experience and accepts input operations for answering the displayed questions. The user terminal 2 is also capable of accessing a predetermined website that displays questions to be presented to participants in the incense making experience and accepts input operations for answering the displayed questions. The user terminal 2 may be owned by the user, or may be installed in a store that offers the incense making experience.

[0031] The user terminal 2 is capable of executing various processes based on various information transmitted from the management server 1, the store terminal 3, and external devices, as well as various information input by user operation. The user terminal 2 is also capable of transmitting various information to the management server 1, the store terminal 3, and external devices. For example, the user terminal 2 is capable of acquiring the determination result of the user's constitution type transmitted from the management server 1 and outputting it on a display or the like. The user terminal 2 is also capable of acquiring herbal medicine information transmitted from the management server 1 and outputting it on a display or the like. The user terminal 2 is also capable of acquiring information related to a new blend of aromatic ingredients transmitted from the management server 1 and outputting it on a display or the like. The user terminal 2 is also capable of acquiring blending procedure information transmitted from the management server 1 and outputting it on a display or the like. The user terminal 2 is also capable of acquiring molding conditions and drying conditions transmitted from the management server 1 and outputting it on a display or the like.

[0032] [Store terminal 3] The store terminal 3 is an information processing device installed in a store that offers incense making experiences. The store terminal 3 may be configured, for example, as a personal computer, tablet terminal, smartphone, or the like. The store terminal 3 is capable of executing a predetermined application program that displays various information related to the incense making experience, which is provided by the management server 1. The store terminal 3 is installed so that the person in charge of providing the incense making experience in the store can refer to various information.

[0033] The store terminal 3 is capable of executing various processes based on various information transmitted from the management server 1, the user terminal 2, and external devices, as well as various information input by user operations. The store terminal 3 is also capable of transmitting various information to the management server 1, the user terminal 2, and external devices. For example, the user terminal 2 is capable of acquiring various information related to the incense making experience transmitted from the management server 1 and outputting it on a display or the like. The various information related to the incense making experience includes, for example, user information including the user's responses to questions presented to the user, the results of a determination of the user's constitution type, and past blending history of incense ingredients. The various information related to the incense making experience also includes information presented to the user about herbal medicines, information about new blends of incense ingredients, blending procedures, molding conditions, drying conditions, and the like.

[0034] The above-described processing by each of the management server 1, user terminal 2, and store terminal 3 constituting the information processing system S is one example. In addition, since it is sufficient for the information processing system S as a whole to have the function of realizing the above-described processing, some or all of the functions of realizing the above-described processing may be shared or cooperated within the information processing system S.

[0035] For example, some or all of the functions of the management server 1 may be functions of other information processing devices (for example, the user terminal 2 or the store terminal 3) in the information processing system S. Also, some or all of the functions of other information processing devices in the information processing system S may be functions of the management server 1. Furthermore, some or all of the functions of the management server 1 may be transferred to other servers (not shown). This promotes processing in the information processing system S as a whole and also enables processes to complement each other.

[0036] <Hardware configuration> [Hardware configuration of Management Server 1] FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the management server 1 that constitutes the information processing system S of FIG. The management server 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 output unit 16, an input unit 17, a memory unit 18, a communication unit 19, and a drive 20.

[0037] The CPU 11 executes various processes in accordance with programs recorded in the ROM 12 or programs loaded from the storage unit 18 into the RAM 13. The RAM 13 also stores data and the like required for the CPU 11 to execute various processes. The CPU 11, the ROM 12, and the RAM 13 are interconnected via a bus 14. An input / output interface 15 is also connected to this bus 14.

[0038] The input / output interface 15 is connected to an output unit 16, an input unit 17, a storage unit 18, a communication unit 19, and a drive 20. The output unit 16 is composed of a display, a speaker, etc., and outputs various types of information as image information or audio information. The input unit 17 is composed of a keyboard, a mouse, a touch panel, etc., and accepts input of various types of information. The storage unit 18 is composed of a hard disk, a DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory), etc., and stores various types of data. The communication unit 19 communicates with other devices via the above-mentioned network N, which is composed of the Internet, etc.

[0039] Removable media 21, such as a magnetic disk, optical disk, magneto-optical disk, or semiconductor memory, is appropriately attached to the drive 20. Programs read from the removable media 21 by the drive 20 are installed in the storage unit 18 as needed. The removable media 21 can also store various data stored in the storage unit 18 in the same way as the storage unit 18.

[0040] [Hardware Configuration of User Terminal 2 and Store Terminal 3] Although not shown, the user terminal 2 and the store terminal 3 have the same hardware configuration as the management server 1 shown in Fig. 3. That is, the user terminal 2 and the store terminal 3 each have a CPU, ROM, RAM, bus, input / output interface, output unit, input unit, memory unit, communication unit, drive, and removable media, which correspond to the CPU 11, ROM 12, RAM 13, bus 14, input / output interface 15, output unit 16, input unit 17, memory unit 18, communication unit 19, drive 20, and removable media 21, respectively, in Fig. 3.

[0041] <Functional configuration of management server 1> FIG. 4 is a functional block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the management server 1. As shown in FIG. In the CPU 11 of the management server 1, when it operates, an information acquisition unit 31 as an acquisition means, an information management unit 32 as a management means, a question presentation unit 33 as a question presentation means, a determination unit 34 as a determination means, and a herbal medicine presentation unit 35 as a herbal medicine presentation means function. In addition, in the CPU 11, when it operates, a proposal unit 36 ​​as a proposal means, a procedure presentation unit 37 as a procedure presentation means, a condition presentation unit 38 as a condition presentation means, and a transmission control unit 39 that controls the transmission of various information function.

[0042] The storage unit 18 of the management server 1 has various databases. For example, it has a crude drug DB 41 storing crude drug information, a question DB 42 storing questions, and a user DB 43 storing user information. The user information includes all information related to the user, such as answers to questions, constitution type determination results, and past blending history of fragrance materials. The storage unit 18 also has a procedure DB 44 storing blending procedure information and a condition DB 45 storing molding conditions and drying conditions.

[0043] The information acquisition unit 31 acquires various pieces of information transmitted from the user terminal 2, the store terminal 3, and external sources. For example, the information acquisition unit 31 acquires the user's answers to questions transmitted from the user terminal 2. The various pieces of information acquired by the information acquisition unit 31 are stored in various databases in the storage unit 18.

[0044] The information management unit 32 manages various types of information stored in the databases of the storage unit 18. For example, the information management unit 32 manages herbal medicine information stored in the herbal medicine DB 41. The information management unit 32 also manages question items stored in the question DB 42. The information management unit 32 also manages user information stored in the user DB 43. The information management unit 32 also manages blending procedure information stored in the procedure DB 44. The information management unit 32 also manages molding conditions and drying conditions stored in the condition DB 45.

[0045] The question presenting unit 33 presents questions to the user who plans to participate in the incense making experience. Specifically, the question presenting unit 33 presents the questions to the user by controlling the display of the user terminal 2 operated by the user.

[0046] When the information acquisition unit 31 acquires the user's answers to the questions presented to the user by the question presentation unit 33, the determination unit 34 determines the user's constitution type based on the content of the answers. The constitution types include, for example, the above-mentioned Qi deficiency, blood deficiency, Yang deficiency, Yin deficiency, Qi stagnation, blood congestion, phlegm and dampness, and damp heat.

[0047] The herbal medicine presentation unit 35 presents to the user herbal medicine information related to the herbal medicine according to the type of constitution of the user determined by the determination unit 34. Specifically, the herbal medicine presentation unit 35 presents the herbal medicine information to the user by controlling the display of the user terminal 2 operated by the user to display the herbal medicine information. The herbal medicine information may be presented to the user together with the type of constitution determined by the determination unit 34.

[0048] The suggestion unit 36 ​​suggests a new blend of fragrance ingredients to the user based on user information including the user's past blending history. Specifically, the suggestion unit 36 ​​suggests the new blend of fragrance ingredients to the user by displaying information about the new blend on the user terminal 2 operated by the user.

[0049] The procedure presenting unit 37 presents the blending procedure information to the user. Specifically, the procedure presenting unit 37 presents the blending procedure information to the user by displaying it on the user terminal 2 operated by the user. The condition presenting unit 38 presents to the user the molding conditions for molding the fragrance material in the above-mentioned molding process and the drying conditions for drying the fragrance material in the above-mentioned drying process. Specifically, the condition presenting unit 38 presents to the user the molding conditions and the drying conditions by displaying them on the user terminal 2 operated by the user.

[0050] The transmission control unit 39 controls the transmission of various types of information via the communication unit 19. Specifically, the transmission control unit 39 controls the transmission of various types of information to the user terminal 2, the store terminal 3, and the outside. For example, the transmission control unit 39 controls the transmission of control information for outputting, on the display or the like, of each of the user terminal 2 and the store terminal 3, question items, the results of the constitution type determination, herbal medicine information, information on a new blend of aromatic ingredients, blending procedure information, molding conditions, drying conditions, and the like.

[0051] <Processing flow of Management Server 1> Fig. 5 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing flow of the management server 1. In the example of Fig. 5, it is assumed that questions are presented to users who plan to participate in the incense making experience in advance (for example, about one week before the incense making experience). The management server 1 presents questions to users who plan to participate in the incense making experience (step S21). Specifically, the management server 1 presents the questions to the users by displaying them on the user terminal 2 operated by the users. When the management server 1 obtains the user's answers to the questions (YES in step S22), it determines the user's constitution type based on the content of the answers (step S23).

[0052] When a user visits the store to participate in the incense-making experience, a predetermined application program installed on the user terminal 2 operated by the user is launched. The management server 1 presents the user with herbal medicine information related to the herbal medicines corresponding to the user's constitution type determined in step S23 (step S24). Specifically, the management server 1 presents the user with the user's constitution type and herbal medicine information by displaying them on the user terminal 2 operated by the user. On the other hand, if the user's answers to the questions have not been obtained (NO in step S22), the management server 1 repeats the determination process of step S22. Furthermore, the store staff prompts the visiting user to answer the questions.

[0053] If it is not the user's first visit to the store and the user has a blending history (YES in step S25), the management server 1 proposes a new blend of fragrance ingredients to the user based on the user's past blending history (step S26). Specifically, the management server 1 makes the proposal to the user by displaying information about the new blend of fragrance ingredients on the user terminal 2 operated by the user. On the other hand, if the user does not have a past blending history (NO in step S25), the management server 1 proceeds to the processing of step S27.

[0054] The management server 1 presents the blending procedure information to the user (step S27). Specifically, the management server 1 presents the blending procedure information to the user by displaying it on the user terminal 2 operated by the user. The management server 1 also presents the molding conditions and drying conditions to the user (step S28). Specifically, the management server 1 presents the molding conditions and drying conditions to the user by displaying them on the user terminal 2 operated by the user. In this way, support is provided to enable users who participate in the incense making experience to efficiently make their favorite incense. This concludes the processing of the management server 1 (END).

[0055] <Example> FIG. 6 shows specific examples of questions presented to users participating in the incense making experience. FIG. 6 shows specific examples of questions presented to the user regarding each of eight types of constitution (Qi deficiency, blood deficiency, yang deficiency, yin deficiency, qi stagnation, blood stagnation, phlegm and dampness, and damp heat). Specifically, for example, in the "1." column, seven check items are listed for the "Qi deficiency" constitution type: "Feeling tired and weak," "Easily sweating during the day," "Frequently catching colds," "Feeling sleepy after eating," "Feeling tired and weak in the limbs," "Poor appetite or loss of appetite," "Yellowish skin," "Feeling tired and unmotivated," "Shortness of breath," and "Loose stools or constipation." The user checks the seven check items listed in the "1." column that apply to them.

[0056] For example, in the "2." column, there are ten check items listed as questions about the "blood deficiency" constitution type: "pale and dull complexion," "white lips and nails," "dry hair and skin," "dizziness when standing up," "blurred vision / decreased vision," "difficulty falling asleep / shallow sleep," "poor appetite / loss of appetite," "leg cramps / twitching eyelids," "severe forgetfulness," and "palpitations." The user checks the ten check items listed in the "2." column that apply to them. The contents of the check items for the constitution types "yang deficiency," "yin deficiency," "qi stagnation," "blood congestion," "phlegm and dampness," and "damp heat" listed in each of the "3." through "8." columns are as shown in FIG. 6.

[0057] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a specific example of a distiller 200 used in the incense making experience. 7 is a glass apparatus used to obtain aromatic distilled water by distilling herbal medicines. The distiller 200 includes a cooling vessel 201, a distillation vessel 202, an oil tray 203, a gasket 204, a boiling vessel 205, a mesh plate 206, a heater 207, and a flask 208.

[0058] The cooling vessel 201 serves to cool the vapor generated in the distillation process and return it to a liquid (i.e., condense it). As the vapor containing the aromatic components of the herbal medicine passes through the cooling vessel 201, it changes from a gas to a liquid and is collected as aromatic distilled water. Note that the cooling vessel 201 may be configured to circulate water or a refrigerant to increase the cooling efficiency. Distillation vessel 202 is a vessel for converting vapor into a liquid. The oil tray 203 is a container for receiving the aromatic distilled water that has been cooled by the cooling container 201 and turned into liquid.

[0059] Packing 204 is a sealing member that seals the connections between the components of distiller 200 and prevents leakage of vapor or liquid. Packing 204 is made of, for example, silicone, which has excellent heat and chemical resistance. Using silicone prevents deterioration and maintains airtightness even during the high-temperature distillation process, enabling efficient and safe distillation. The boiling vessel 205 is a vessel in which the herbal medicine and water are placed, heated to boil, and steam is generated. In the boiling vessel 205, the aromatic components are volatilized from the herbal medicine and rise as steam.

[0060] The mesh plate 206 is placed in the boiling vessel 205 and serves to support the herbal medicine. The mesh plate 206 has the effect of preventing the herbal medicine from being overheated or burned when it comes too close to the heater 207. The heater 207 is a heat source for heating the boiling vessel 205. For the heater 207, for example, a temperature-adjustable HI heater or the like is used. The flask 208 is a glass container for storing aromatic distilled water.

[0061] <Advantageous Effects of the Present Embodiment> According to the above-described embodiment, incense can be produced that is personalized to the constitution and tastes of each individual user.

[0062] <Other embodiments> Although one embodiment of the present invention has been described above, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and modifications, improvements, etc. within the scope of achieving the object of the present invention are included in the present invention.

[0063] For example, in the above-described embodiment, the type of the user's constitution is determined to be one of Qi deficiency, blood deficiency, Yang deficiency, Yin deficiency, Qi stagnation, blood retention, phlegm and dampness, and damp heat, but is not limited thereto.

[0064] In the above-described embodiment, aromatic distilled water obtained by distilling herbal medicines is used when producing incense, but the present invention is not limited to this, and tap water may also be used, for example.

[0065] In addition, in the above-described embodiment, the fragrance raw materials are selected from one or more of agarwood, sandalwood, cinnamon, clove, cinnamon, anise, bornouling, sedge, wild jasmine, woody jasmine, sappanha, benzoin, frankincense, and seashell jasmine, but are not limited to these.

[0066] Furthermore, for example, the above-described series of processes can be executed by hardware or software. In other words, the above-described functional configuration is merely an example and is not particularly limited. In other words, it is sufficient for the information processing system to be provided with a function that can execute the above-described series of processes as a whole, and the type of functional block used to realize this function is not particularly limited to the above-described example.

[0067] The location of the functional blocks is not particularly limited and may be arbitrary. For example, the functional blocks of the management server 1 may be transferred to another device, or the functional blocks of another device may be transferred to a server. Furthermore, one functional block may be configured as a single piece of hardware, a single piece of software, or a combination of both.

[0068] When a series of processes is executed by software, the programs constituting the software are installed onto a computer or the like from a network or a recording medium. The computer may be a computer incorporated into dedicated hardware. The computer may also be a computer capable of executing various functions by installing various programs, such as a server, a general-purpose smartphone, or a personal computer.

[0069] The recording medium containing such a program may be configured as a removable medium (not shown) that is distributed separately from the device main body in order to provide the program to users, etc., or may be configured as a recording medium that is pre-installed in the device main body and provided to users, etc. Since the program can be distributed via a network, the recording medium may be installed in or accessible from a computer that is connected or connectable to the network.

[0070] In this specification, the steps describing the program recorded on the recording medium include not only processes that are performed in chronological order, but also processes that are not necessarily performed in chronological order but are performed in parallel or individually. Also, in this specification, the term "system" means an overall device composed of multiple devices or multiple means, etc.

[0071] In other words, the incense manufacturing method to which the present invention is applied can take various forms having the following configurations. (1) That is, the incense manufacturing method to which the present invention is applicable includes a determination step (e.g., step S2 in FIG. 1) of determining the type of constitution of the user based on the result of the determination of the user's constitution based on predetermined criteria; a selection step (e.g., step S3 in FIG. 1) of selecting herbal medicines corresponding to the determined type of constitution; a distillation step (e.g., step S4 in FIG. 1) of distilling the selected herbal medicines to obtain aromatic distilled water; a blending step (e.g., step S8 in FIG. 1) of blending one or more fragrance ingredients selected by the user; a kneading step (e.g., step S12 in FIG. 1) of kneading the obtained fragrance material by adding the aromatic distilled water to the blended fragrance ingredients; a molding step (e.g., step S13 in FIG. 1) of shaping the kneaded fragrance material; and a drying step (e.g., step S14 in FIG. 1) of drying the molded fragrance material. This allows for the production of personalized incense tailored to each user's constitution and preferences. As a result, it is possible to provide more effective incense tailored not only to the user's scent preferences, but also to their health and constitution. Furthermore, the use of aromatic distilled water improves the persistence and depth of the fragrance. Furthermore, this will deepen understanding of the incense manufacturing process, which will be recalled when the finished product is used, creating a special sensory and psychological bond between the incense and the user.

[0072] (2) The determination process may be characterized by determining that the user's constitution type is one of Qi deficiency, blood deficiency, Yang deficiency, Yin deficiency, Qi stagnation, blood retention, phlegm and dampness, and damp heat. This allows for highly accurate judgment based on detailed criteria based on multiple types of constitution. As a result, more accurate selection of herbal medicines becomes possible, which is expected to improve the effectiveness of the incense produced. In addition, by providing questions corresponding to the type of constitution, even non-experts can make appropriate judgments.

[0073] (3) If the type of constitution determined to be Qi deficiency is selected in the selection process, one or more of jujube, licorice, and astragalus are selected as the medicinal herbs; if the type of constitution determined to be blood deficiency is selected in the selection process, one or more of angelica, polyhedron, and golden needle cabbage are selected as the medicinal herbs; if the type of constitution determined to be Yang deficiency is selected in the selection process, one or more of eucommia, cinnamon, and dried ginger are selected as the medicinal herbs; if the type of constitution determined to be Yin deficiency is selected in the selection process, one or more of wolfberry, lily root, and black sesame are selected as the medicinal herbs; If the type of constitution is the Qi stagnation, in the selection process, one or more of Citrus unshiu peel, Maikai flower, and cardamom are selected as the medicinal herbs; if the determined type of constitution is blood congestion, in the selection process, one or more of turmeric, safflower, and Salvia miltiorrhiza are selected as the medicinal herbs; if the determined type of constitution is phlegm and dampness, in the selection process, one or more of chrysanthemum flower, bitter apricot kernel, and Biwa leaf are selected as the medicinal herbs; and if the determined type of constitution is damp-heat, one or more of gold and silver flower, chrysanthemum flower, and osmanthus are selected as the medicinal herbs. This allows the optimum combination of herbal medicines for each constitution type to be predefined, and as a result, the herbal medicines suitable for the user's constitution can be selected simply by determining the user's constitution type.

[0074] (4) In addition, in the blending process, the user may select one or more of the fragrance raw materials, which are agarwood, sandalwood, cinnamon, clove, cinnamon, anise, bornouling, sedge, wild jasmine, woody jasmine, safflower, benzoin, frankincense, and seashell jasmine. This allows us to offer a wide variety of fragrance ingredients to choose from, enabling us to create a wide variety of fragrances to suit the user's preferences. As a result, we can create incense that suits the user's constitution and their preferred scent, which is expected to increase user satisfaction.

[0075] (5) The method may further include a confirmation step (for example, step S6 in FIG. 1) of confirming the user's preference by burning the incense raw materials as a test before the blending step. This allows the user to test burn the incense ingredients before selecting them, allowing the user to check the actual scent before selecting the incense ingredients. This is expected to increase the user's satisfaction with the incense produced. Furthermore, the user can produce incense that suits both their preferences and constitution.

[0076] (6) Furthermore, if the user is not satisfied with the strength of the fragrance of the fragrance ingredients blended in the blending process, the method may further include an additional blending process (e.g., step S10 in Figure 1) after the blending process, in which a predetermined fragrance (e.g., natural fragrance or synthetic fragrance) is added and blended. This adds an additional blending step that allows the strength of the fragrance to be adjusted after the basic blending in the blending process, making it possible to produce incense that better suits the user's preferences.

[0077] The information processing system to which the present invention is applied can take various forms having the following configurations. (7) In other words, the information processing system to which the present invention is applied is an information processing system characterized by having a question presentation means (e.g., question presentation unit 33 in FIG. 4) that presents a user with questions based on predetermined criteria for determining a person's constitution, a determination means (e.g., determination unit 34 in FIG. 4) that determines the type of constitution of the user based on the content of the user's answers to the questions, an acquisition means (e.g., information acquisition unit 31 in FIG. 4) that acquires the determination result of the user's constitution type, and a herbal medicine presentation means (e.g., herbal medicine presentation unit 35 in FIG. 4) that presents the user with information about herbal medicines corresponding to the determined type of constitution. This makes it possible to digitize and systematize at least part of the incense manufacturing process. As a result, even users without specialized knowledge can manufacture incense that suits their constitution and preferences. Furthermore, the system can centrally manage everything from determining the user's constitution type to selecting herbal medicines and suggesting incense ingredients, improving incense manufacturing efficiency.

[0078] (8) The system may further include a management means (e.g., information management unit 32 in FIG. 4) for managing, for each user, the past blending history of fragrance materials obtained by adding aromatic distilled water from which the herbal medicines have been distilled to one or more blended fragrance ingredients, and a suggestion means (e.g., suggestion unit 36 ​​in FIG. 4) for suggesting to the user a new blend of the one or more fragrance ingredients based on the past blending history. This makes use of past blending history, allowing the company to suggest incense that matches the user's changing tastes and physical constitution due to the seasons. As a result, even repeat users can be made to suit their preferences, which is expected to improve customer satisfaction and increase the rate of continued use.

[0079] (9) The past blending history may also include preference information that is the result of confirming the user's preferences through test burning of the incense ingredients. This makes use of past blending history, including preference information, and can suggest incense that matches the user's changing tastes and physical constitution due to the seasons. As a result, even repeat users can be made to suit their preferences, which is expected to improve customer satisfaction and increase the rate of continued use.

[0080] (10) The device may further comprise a procedure presentation means (for example, the procedure presentation unit 37 in FIG. 4) that presents information on the procedure for blending the one or more fragrance raw materials to the user. This visualizes the mixing procedure, allowing even first-time incense makers to follow the correct procedure. It also deepens users' understanding of the incense-making process and is expected to help them recall the experience of using the finished product.

[0081] (11) The device may further include a condition presentation means (e.g., the condition presentation unit 38 in Figure 4) that presents to the user the molding conditions for molding the fragrance material and the drying conditions for drying the molded fragrance material. This allows even beginners to follow the proper procedures for incense production, which in turn reduces variations in the quality of the incense. It is also expected to deepen participants' understanding of the incense production process and help them recall the experience of using the finished product.

[0082] Furthermore, the information processing method to which the present invention is applied can take various forms having the following configurations. (12) That is, the information processing method to which the present invention is applicable includes the steps of presenting a user with questions based on predetermined criteria for determining a person's constitution, determining the type of constitution of the user based on the content of the user's answers to the questions, acquiring the determination result of the user's constitution type, determining the type of constitution of the user based on the acquired determination result, and presenting the user with information on herbal medicines corresponding to the determined type of constitution. This allows for the production of personalized incense tailored to each user's constitution and preferences. As a result, it is possible to provide more effective incense tailored not only to the user's scent preferences, but also to their health and constitution. Furthermore, the use of aromatic distilled water improves the persistence and depth of the fragrance. Furthermore, this will deepen understanding of the incense manufacturing process, which will be recalled when the finished product is used, creating a special sensory and psychological bond between the incense and the user.

[0083] Furthermore, the program to which the present invention is applied can take various forms having the following configurations. (13) In other words, the program to which the present invention is applicable is a program that causes a computer that controls an information processing device to execute control processing including the steps of presenting a user with questions based on predetermined criteria regarding a person's constitution, determining the type of constitution of the user based on the content of the user's answers to the questions, acquiring the determination result of the user's constitution type, determining the type of constitution of the user based on the acquired determination result, and presenting the user with information regarding herbal medicines corresponding to the determined type of constitution. This allows for the production of personalized incense tailored to each user's constitution and preferences. As a result, it is possible to provide more effective incense tailored not only to the user's scent preferences, but also to their health and constitution. Furthermore, the use of aromatic distilled water improves the persistence and depth of the fragrance. Furthermore, this will deepen understanding of the incense manufacturing process, which will be recalled when the finished product is used, creating a special sensory and psychological bond between the incense and the user. [Explanation of symbols]

[0084] 1: Management server, 2: User terminal, 3: Store terminal, 11: CPU, 16: Output unit, 17: Input unit, 18: Memory unit, 19: Communication unit, 31: Information acquisition unit, 32: Information management unit, 33: Question presentation unit, 34: Judgment unit, 35: Herbal medicine presentation unit, 36: Proposal unit, 37: Procedure presentation unit, 38: Condition presentation unit, 39: Transmission control unit, S: Information processing system, N: Network

Claims

1. a determination step of determining the type of constitution of the user based on a determination result of the constitution of the user based on a predetermined determination criterion; a selection step of selecting a herbal medicine according to the determined constitution type; a distillation step of distilling the selected herbal medicine to obtain aromatic distilled water; a blending step of blending one or more fragrance raw materials selected by the user; a kneading step of kneading the fragrance material obtained by adding the aromatic distilled water to the blended fragrance raw materials; a molding step of molding the kneaded fragrance material; a drying step of drying the formed fragrance material; A method for producing incense, comprising:

2. The determining step determines that the type of constitution of the user is one of Qi deficiency, blood deficiency, Yang deficiency, Yin deficiency, Qi stagnation, blood congestion, phlegm and dampness, and damp heat. The method for producing incense according to claim 1.

3. If the determined type of constitution is Qi deficiency, in the selection step, one or more of jujube, licorice, and astragalus are selected as the herbal medicine; If the determined type of constitution is blood deficiency, in the selection step, one or more of Angelica sinensis, Polygonum multiflorum, and Golden Needle Cabbage are selected as the herbal medicine; If the determined type of constitution is Yang deficiency, in the selection step, one or more of Eucommia ulmoides, Cinnamon, and Dried Ginger are selected as the herbal medicine; If the determined type of constitution is Yin deficiency, in the selection step, one or more of wolfberry, lily root, and black sesame are selected as the herbal medicine; If the determined type of constitution is Qi stagnation, in the selecting step, one or more of Citrus Fruit Peel, Maikai Flower, and Cardamom are selected as the herbal medicine; If the determined type of constitution is blood poisoning, in the selection step, one or more of turmeric, safflower, and miltiorrhiza are selected as the herbal medicine; If the determined type of constitution is phlegm-damp, in the selection step, one or more of chrysanthemum flower, bitter apricot kernel, and biwa leaf are selected as the herbal medicine; When the determined type of constitution is the damp-heat type, in the selection step, one or more of Goldenrod, Chrysanthemum, and Golden Osmanthus are selected as the herbal medicine. The method for producing incense according to claim 2.

4. In the blending step, one or more of agarwood, sandalwood, cinnamon, clove, cinnamon, anise, borneol, sedge, wild jasmine, wood jasmine, sappanha, benzoin, frankincense, and shellfish jasmine are selected by the user as the fragrance raw materials. The method for producing incense according to claim 1.

5. The method further includes a confirmation step of confirming the user's preference by test burning the incense raw materials prior to the blending step. The method for producing incense according to claim 1.

6. The method further comprises, after the blending step, an additional blending step of adding a predetermined fragrance and blending it if the user is not satisfied with the strength of the fragrance of the fragrance raw materials blended in the blending step. The method for producing incense according to claim 1.

7. a question presenting means for presenting to a user questions based on predetermined criteria relating to a person's constitution; a determining means for determining the constitution type of the user based on the content of the user's answers to the questions; an acquisition means for acquiring a determination result of the constitution type of the user; a herbal medicine presentation means for presenting information about herbal medicines according to the determined constitution type to the user; 2. An information processing system for supporting the incense manufacturing method according to claim 1, comprising:

8. a management means for managing, for each user, a past blending history of fragrance materials obtained by adding the aromatic distilled water obtained by distilling the herbal medicine to one or more blended fragrance raw materials; The method further comprises a suggestion means for suggesting to the user a new blend of the one or more fragrance raw materials based on the past blend history. The information processing system according to claim 7 .

9. The past blending history includes preference information that is a result of confirming the user's preferences by trial burning the incense ingredients. The information processing system according to claim 8 .

10. The method further comprises: providing a procedure presentation means for presenting information on a procedure for blending the one or more fragrance raw materials to the user; The information processing system according to claim 7 .

11. The method further comprises a condition presenting means for presenting to the user molding conditions for molding the fragrance material and drying conditions for drying the molded fragrance material. The information processing system according to claim 8 .

12. An information processing method executed by an information processing system, presenting a user with questions based on predetermined criteria regarding a person's constitution; determining a constitution type of the user based on the content of the user's answers to the questions; obtaining a determination result of the user's constitution type; determining a constitution type of the user based on the obtained determination result; presenting to the user information on herbal medicines according to the determined constitution type; An information processing method including:

13. A computer that controls an information processing device presenting a user with questions based on predetermined criteria regarding a person's constitution; determining a constitution type of the user based on the content of the user's answers to the questions; obtaining a determination result of the user's constitution type; determining a constitution type of the user based on the obtained determination result; presenting to the user information on herbal medicines according to the determined constitution type; A program that executes control processing including:

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