Information providing system, information providing method, and information providing program

Abstract

To provide a proposal related to sports on the basis of the exercise capacity of the right and left limbs of an individual.SOLUTION: To provide an information providing system for outputting proposal information related to sports on the basis of the exercise capability of the right and left limbs of an individual. An information providing system includes an input unit that acquires input information 300 including one or more evaluation indexes for dexterity of left and right hands and feet of a user, a storage unit that stores a plurality of pieces of proposal information 312 associated with one or more conditions defined using the one or more evaluation indexes, a selection unit that refers to the storage unit and selects one or more pieces of proposal information 312 associated with a condition satisfied by the one or more evaluation indexes included in the input information from among the plurality of pieces of proposal information 320, and an output unit that outputs the selected one or more pieces of proposal information 320.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a technology for outputting sports-related suggestion information based on the motor abilities of an individual's left and right limbs. [Background technology]

[0002] Generally, a person's dominant hand and foot are determined by the limb they use most often in daily life. Such dominant hand and foot (i.e., the motor abilities of both hands and feet) can have a significant impact on the playing style and sports equipment used in each sport. As an example, athletes may use sports equipment (e.g., golf clubs and baseball gloves) with significantly different characteristics depending on whether their dominant hand is left or right. As another example, athletes may select playing styles or positions in sports such as soccer depending on whether their dominant foot is left or right. However, the dominant hand is not necessarily the hand that is used most often in daily life. It is also believed that there are individual differences in the balance of dexterity between the left and right hands. The same is true for the feet.

[0003] Regarding technology for measuring dexterity of the left and right hands and feet, for example, International Publication No. 2022 / 230097 (Patent Document 1) discloses a measuring device equipped with a sensor. The measuring device includes "a movement data acquisition unit that acquires movement data, which is data measured by the measuring device when a subject holds and moves the measuring device equipped with a sensor in each of the right and left hands, and a motor ability estimation unit that acquires time-series data of the movement of the right and left hands from the movement data and normalizes the time-series data to evaluate the motor ability of each of the right and left hands" (see [Abstract]). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] International Publication No. 2022 / 230097 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] The technology disclosed in Patent Document 1 may be able to evaluate the motor abilities of an individual's right and left hands. However, the technology disclosed in Patent Document 1 does not disclose how to utilize information on the motor abilities of an individual's left and right limbs. Therefore, there is a need for a technology that can make sports-related suggestions based on the motor abilities of an individual's left and right limbs.

[0006] The present disclosure has been made in consideration of the above-described background, and in one aspect, it is an object of the present disclosure to provide a technology for making sports-related suggestions based on the motor abilities of an individual's left and right limbs. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] According to one embodiment, there is provided an information provision system for outputting suggested information related to sports based on the motor abilities of an individual's left and right limbs. The information provision system includes an input unit that acquires input information including one or more evaluation indexes for the dexterity of the user's left and right limbs, a memory unit that stores a plurality of pieces of suggested information linked to one or more conditions defined using the one or more evaluation indexes, a selection unit that refers to the memory unit and selects, from the plurality of pieces of suggested information, one or more pieces of suggested information linked to conditions satisfied by the one or more evaluation indexes included in the input information, and an output unit that outputs the selected one or more pieces of suggested information.

[0008] In one aspect, the plurality of pieces of suggested information include sports equipment information. Selecting one or more pieces of suggested information linked to a condition satisfied by one or more evaluation indexes included in the input information from the plurality of pieces of suggested information includes selecting one or more pieces of suggested information from the plurality of pieces of suggested information as the one or more pieces of suggested information.

[0009] In one aspect, the plurality of pieces of suggested information include customization information for sports equipment. Selecting one or more pieces of suggested information linked to a condition satisfied by one or more evaluation indexes included in the input information from the plurality of pieces of suggested information includes selecting one or more pieces of customization information for sports equipment from the plurality of pieces of suggested information as the one or more pieces of suggested information.

[0010] In one aspect, the plurality of pieces of suggested information include a plurality of pieces of sports information. Selecting one or more pieces of suggested information linked to a condition satisfied by one or more evaluation indexes included in the input information from the plurality of pieces of suggested information includes selecting one or more pieces of sports information from the plurality of pieces of suggested information as the one or more pieces of suggested information.

[0011] In one aspect, the plurality of pieces of suggested information include at least one of a plurality of pieces of play style information and a plurality of pieces of practice method information for each sport. Selecting one or more pieces of suggested information linked to a condition satisfied by one or more evaluation indexes included in the input information from the plurality of pieces of suggested information includes at least one of selecting one or more pieces of play style information from the plurality of pieces of play style information as the one or more pieces of suggested information, and selecting one or more pieces of practice method information from the plurality of pieces of practice method information as the one or more pieces of suggested information.

[0012] According to another embodiment, there is provided a computer-implemented information providing method for outputting suggested information related to sports based on motor abilities of an individual's left and right limbs, which includes: acquiring one or more evaluation indexes of dexterity of the user's left and right limbs; selecting one or more pieces of suggested information associated with conditions satisfied by the one or more evaluation indexes from among a plurality of pieces of suggested information associated with one or more conditions defined using the one or more evaluation indexes; and outputting the selected one or more pieces of suggested information.

[0013] According to yet another embodiment, there is provided an information provision program for outputting suggested information about sports based on the motor abilities of an individual's left and right limbs. The information provision program causes a computer to acquire one or more evaluation indexes for the dexterity of the user's left and right limbs, select one or more pieces of suggested information linked to conditions satisfied by one or more evaluation indexes from among a plurality of pieces of suggested information linked to one or more conditions defined using one or more pre-prepared evaluation indexes, and output the selected one or more pieces of suggested information. [Effects of the Invention]

[0014] According to one embodiment, a technique can be provided for making sports recommendations based on an individual's left and right limb athletic abilities.

[0015] The above and other objects, features, aspects and advantages of the present disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description of the disclosure taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0016] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of a functional configuration of a system 100 according to the present embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of a hardware configuration of a system 100. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a first proposed function provided by the system 100. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a second proposed function provided by the system 100. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a third proposed function provided by the system 100. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a fourth proposed function provided by the system 100. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of measurement results 700 of the difference in dexterity between the left and right limbs for baseball players who have switched or attempted to switch from right-handed to left-handed batting. [Figure 8]It is a diagram showing an example of a series of processing procedures until proposal information in system 100 is output.

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0017] Hereinafter, embodiments of the technical idea according to the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description, the same parts are denoted by the same reference numerals. Their names and functions are also the same. Therefore, detailed descriptions thereof will not be repeated. Also, each embodiment, each modification example, each software configuration, each hardware configuration, each function, and each process, etc. may be selectively combined as appropriate.

[0018] <A. System Configuration> FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of system 100 according to the present embodiment. System 100 provides proposals related to sports to a user (or individual) who uses system 100 based on evaluation indexes of the dexterity of the left and right hands and feet of the user. The dexterity of the left and right hands and feet may also be called the motor ability of the left and right hands and feet. Proposals related to sports include sports equipment suitable for the user, a method of customizing sports equipment, sports, and a play style or practice method in sports, etc. As an example, a user who wants to start a certain sport can know a sport suitable for his / her characteristics by using system 100. As another example, a user who wants to improve the performance of the sport he / she is currently continuing can know sports equipment suitable for his / her characteristics, a method of customizing sports equipment, a play style or a practice method by using system 100.

[0019] System 100 mainly includes an input unit 102, a selection unit 104, a storage unit 106, and an output unit 108. Also, system 100 is configured to be communicable with terminal 110 via a wired network or a wireless network.

[0020] In one aspect, each component included in system 100 may be realized as a program. In this case, the function of each component included in system 100 is realized by executing the program on the hardware configuration shown in Fig. 2. In another aspect, some of the components included in system 100 may be realized as hardware.

[0021] In one aspect, system 100 may be realized as a server device, a service on a cloud, a server-client system, or a standalone device. In another aspect, system 100 may be realized as a server program, a virtual machine, a node, an instance, a container, or the like that runs on a server device or a cloud environment. When system 100 is configured as one device or a group of devices, system 100 may be referred to as an device.

[0022] The input unit 102 is configured to be able to acquire input information including at least one of an evaluation index for dexterity of the user's left and right hands and an evaluation index for dexterity of the user's left and right feet. The input unit 102 may also be configured to be able to input an evaluation index for dexterity of the left and right hands and feet. Hereinafter, the evaluation index for dexterity of the left and right hands and feet may also be simply referred to as an "evaluation index." The input unit 102 outputs the input information to the selection unit 104.

[0023] The "evaluation index for left-handed dexterity" includes an evaluation index for left-handed dexterity, an evaluation index for right-handed dexterity, and an evaluation index for left-handed dexterity (sometimes simply referred to as hand dexterity). The evaluation index for hand dexterity is calculated from the evaluation index for left-handed dexterity and the evaluation index for right-handed dexterity. As an example, the evaluation index for hand dexterity may be the average or total value of the evaluation index for left-handed dexterity and the dexterity of the right hand.

[0024] The "evaluation index for left and right foot dexterity" includes an evaluation index for left foot dexterity, an evaluation index for right foot dexterity, and an evaluation index for left and right foot dexterity (sometimes simply referred to as foot dexterity). The evaluation index for foot dexterity is calculated from the evaluation index for left foot dexterity and the evaluation index for right foot dexterity. As an example, the evaluation index for foot dexterity may be the average value or total value of the evaluation index for left foot dexterity and the evaluation index for right foot dexterity.

[0025] The "evaluation index for dexterity of left and right hands and feet" includes an evaluation index for dexterity of left and right hands and an evaluation index for dexterity of left and right feet. Furthermore, the "evaluation index for dexterity of left and right hands and feet" includes an evaluation index for dexterity of left hands and feet and an evaluation index for dexterity of right hands and feet. The evaluation index for dexterity of left hands and feet is calculated (average or total value, etc.) from the evaluation index for dexterity of left hands and the evaluation index for dexterity of left feet. The evaluation index for dexterity of right hands and feet is calculated (average or total value, etc.) from the evaluation index for dexterity of right hands and the evaluation index for dexterity of right feet.

[0026] In one aspect, each evaluation index may be a value obtained by having each limb perform a specific exercise and measuring the movement with a sensor, as shown in Patent Document 1. For example, a user attaches terminal 110 to each limb and repeatedly performs a predetermined exercise. An application on terminal 110 may calculate evaluation indexes for the left and right limbs by scoring the fluctuations in the exercise pattern (variation in the value of the periodic signal from the acceleration sensor). In another aspect, each evaluation index may be calculated using another evaluation method, such as a peg test.

[0027] In one aspect, the input unit 102 may receive the evaluation index from the terminal 110. In another aspect, the input unit 102 may input the evaluation index from an interface such as a button or a touch panel provided on the system 100.

[0028] The storage unit 106 stores multiple pieces of proposal information linked to one or more conditions using one or more evaluation indices. As an example, each of the one or more conditions may be defined by the range, difference, sum, or average value of one or more evaluation indices, such as "the evaluation index for left foot dexterity is greater than 20" or "the difference between the evaluation index for left foot dexterity and the evaluation index for right foot dexterity is less than 10." Furthermore, each of the one or more conditions may include the value of one of the evaluation indices itself. As an example, the multiple pieces of proposal information may be represented as records in databases 310, 410, 510A, 510B, and 610 shown in FIGS. 3 to 6. Details of the databases 310, 410, 510A, 510B, and 610 will be described later.

[0029] In one aspect, storage unit 106 may be implemented as a relational database management system. In another aspect, storage unit 106 may be implemented as a NoSQL database management system. In yet another aspect, storage unit 106 may be implemented simply as a storage area.

[0030] The selection unit 104 is configured to be able to refer to the storage unit 106 and select, from a plurality of pieces of suggested information, one or more pieces of suggested information that correspond to the evaluation index included in the input information. As an example, the suggested information may include one or more of suggested information on sports equipment suitable for the user, customization information on sports equipment suitable for the user, suggested information on a sport suitable for the user, and suggested information on a playing style or practice method suitable for the user. The selection unit 104 outputs the selected suggested information to the output unit 108.

[0031] In one aspect, the selection unit 104 may select one or more pieces of suggested information. As an example, assume that the system 100 suggests running shoes (sports equipment) to the user. In this case, the system 100 may suggest to the user one or more running shoes suitable for the user based on the input information. In another aspect, the selection unit 104 may simultaneously select different types of suggested information. As an example, the system 100 may suggest to the user both running shoes and a method for customizing the running shoes.

[0032] Output unit 108 outputs one or more pieces of suggestion information. In one aspect, output unit 108 may transmit one or more pieces of suggestion information to terminal 110. In another aspect, output unit 108 may output one or more pieces of suggestion information to a display of system 100.

[0033] The terminal 110 is configured to be able to measure evaluation indexes for dexterity of the left and right limbs. The terminal 110 is also configured to be able to transmit the evaluation indexes for dexterity of the left and right limbs to the system 100. The terminal 110 is also configured to be able to receive one or more pieces of suggested information from the system 100 and display the one or more pieces of suggested information on a display. In one aspect, the terminal 110 may be a smartphone, a tablet, a smartwatch, a personal computer, or any other information processing device.

[0034] As described with reference to FIG. 1, the information provision system (system 100) according to this embodiment includes an input unit 102 that acquires input information including one or more evaluation indexes for the dexterity of the user's left and right limbs, a memory unit 106 that stores a plurality of pieces of proposed information linked to one or more conditions defined using the one or more evaluation indexes, a selection unit 104 that refers to the memory unit 106 and selects, from the plurality of pieces of proposed information, one or more pieces of proposed information that are linked to conditions satisfied by one or more evaluation indexes included in the input information, and an output unit 108 that outputs the selected one or more pieces of proposed information.

[0035] As mentioned earlier in this specification, the balance of dexterity between the left and right hands and feet varies from person to person, and therefore the optimal sports equipment, playing style, etc. for each user is likely to differ. Therefore, it has been difficult for users to select the optimal sports equipment, playing style, etc. for themselves. To solve this problem, system 100 can provide sports-related suggestions to users based on an evaluation index of the user's dexterity in both hands and feet. By using system 100, users can obtain suggested information from different perspectives regarding sports equipment, sports equipment customization, sports, playing styles, and practice methods that are suitable for them.

[0036] Fig. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of system 100. In one aspect, system 100 may not include some of the components illustrated in Fig. 2. In another aspect, system 100 may include components not illustrated in Fig. 2. In still another aspect, various functions of system 100 may be realized by executing a program on the hardware illustrated in Fig. 2.

[0037] The system 100 includes a processor 201, a memory 202, a storage 203, an external device IF (Interface) 204, an input IF 205, an output IF 206, and a communication IF 207. In one aspect, the system 100 may include two or more of each component, or may not include some of the components.

[0038] The processor 201 may execute programs for implementing various functions of the system 100. The processor 201 may be configured, for example, with at least one integrated circuit. According to an embodiment, the integrated circuit may include at least one central processing unit (CPU), at least one graphics processing unit (GPU), at least one field programmable gate array (FPGA), at least one application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), at least one artificial intelligence (AI) chip, or a combination thereof.

[0039] The memory 202 functions as a workspace for the processor 201. The memory 202 stores programs executed by the processor 201 and data referenced by the processor 201. In one aspect, the memory 202 can be realized by a dynamic random access memory (DRAM), a static random access memory (SRAM), or the like.

[0040] Storage 203 is a non-volatile memory that stores programs executed by processor 201 and data referenced by processor 201. Processor 201 executes programs read from storage 203 to memory 202 and references data read from storage 203 to memory 202. In one aspect, storage 203 can be realized by a hard disk drive (HDD), a solid state drive (SSD), an erasable programmable read only memory (EPROM), an electrically erasable programmable read only memory (EEPROM), a flash memory, or the like.

[0041] The external device IF204 can be connected to any external device such as a printer, a scanner, and an external HDD. In a certain aspect, the external device IF204 can be realized by a USB (Universal Serial Bus) terminal or the like.

[0042] The input IF205 can be connected to any input device such as a keyboard, a mouse, a touch pad, or a game pad. In a certain aspect, the input IF205 can be realized by a USB terminal, a PS / 2 terminal, a Bluetooth (registered trademark) module, or the like.

[0043] The output IF206 can be connected to any output device such as a cathode ray tube display, a liquid crystal display, or an organic EL display. In a certain aspect, the output IF206 can be realized by a USB terminal, a D-sub terminal, a DVI (Digital Visual Interface) terminal, an HDMI (registered trademark) (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) terminal, a display port terminal, or the like.

[0044] The communication IF207 is connected to other devices via a wired network or a wireless network. In a certain aspect, the communication IF207 can be realized by a wired LAN (Local Area Network) port, a Wi-Fi (registered trademark) (Wireless Fidelity) module, or the like. In other aspects, the communication IF207 can transmit and receive data using communication protocols such as TCP / IP (Transmission Control Protocol / Internet Protocol) and UDP (User Datagram Protocol).

[0045] <B. Type of Proposal> FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a first suggestion function provided by the system 100. The first suggestion function is a function for suggesting sports equipment suitable for each individual. The system 100 receives input information 300 and references a database 310 in the storage unit 106. Next, the system 100 selects information on one or more sports equipment corresponding to the input information 300 as suggested information. Next, the system 100 outputs output information 320 including the suggested information. As an example, the system 100 may output suggested information on tennis rackets, bats, golf clubs, apparel, shoes, or any other sports equipment.

[0046] The input unit 102 receives input information 300 and outputs the input information 300 to the selection unit 104. The input unit 102 may also register the input information 300 in the storage unit 106. In this case, past input information 300 is accumulated in the storage unit 106. The input information 300 may include one or more evaluation indexes. More specifically, the input information 300 includes an evaluation index for left-hand dexterity, an evaluation index for right-hand dexterity, an evaluation index for left-foot dexterity, and an evaluation index for right-foot dexterity. Furthermore, the input information 300 may include an evaluation index for hand dexterity (dexterity of both hands), an evaluation index for foot dexterity (dexterity of both feet), an evaluation index for left-hand and foot dexterity, and an evaluation index for right-hand and foot dexterity.

[0047] In some cases, depending on the type of sports equipment being proposed, input information 300 may not include some of the evaluation indexes. As an example, if the type of sports equipment being proposed is a product that is operated with the hands, such as a tennis racket, input information 300 may include only an evaluation index for left-hand dexterity, an evaluation index for right-hand dexterity, and an evaluation index for hand dexterity (dexterity of both hands). As another example, if the type of sports equipment being proposed is soccer shoes, input information 300 may include only an evaluation index for left-foot dexterity, an evaluation index for right-foot dexterity, and an evaluation index for foot dexterity (dexterity of both feet). This also applies to FIGS. 4 to 6.

[0048] In some aspects, the input information 300 may include information specifying desired suggested information in addition to each evaluation index. For example, if a user wants suggestions for sports equipment, the user may add information specifying "suggestions for sports equipment" to the input information.

[0049] In the example of FIG. 3 , each evaluation index indicates a score linked to a standard deviation of the degree of variation when the average variation for people of the same age is set to "100." As an example, the variation can be obtained by calculating the similarity of time-series data of acceleration signals of continuous periodic limb movements using DTW (Dynamic Time Warping) or the like, and then calculating the average value of the similarities. That is, a score higher than "100" indicates greater dexterity than the average for people of the same age. Conversely, a score lower than "100" indicates less dexterity than the average for people of the same age. Taking input information 300 as an example, the evaluation index for the dexterity of the right hand of the user who inputted input information 300 is "85," which is lower than the average of "100" for people of the same age. Therefore, it can be said that the user has low dexterity in the right hand. Conversely, the evaluation index for the dexterity of the left foot of the user is "130," which is higher than the average of "100" for people of the same age. Therefore, it can be said that the user has high dexterity in the left foot. The evaluation indices for the left and right limbs shown in FIGS. 3 to 6 are just an example, and the evaluation indices can be expressed in any format.

[0050] When suggesting sports equipment, the selection unit 104 refers to a database 310 related to sports equipment registered in the storage unit 106. The database 310 includes multiple sets of correspondences between conditions 311 and suggested information 312. That is, the database 310 includes multiple pieces of suggested information. The conditions 311 are defined using one or more evaluation indexes. The conditions 311 may also include evaluation indexes included in the input information 300. In the example of FIG. 3, the conditions 311 indicate a difference in dexterity between the left and right hands. The suggested information 312 includes information about sports equipment linked to the conditions 311. In the example of FIG. 3, the suggested information 312 indicates bats (sports equipment) with different grip thicknesses for the left and right handles or a method for customizing the grips. As another example, the suggested information 312 may indicate bats with different grip friction for the left and right handles. In some aspects, each condition 311 may be linked to multiple pieces of suggested information 312. In another aspect, each condition 311 in the database 310 may be updated based on input information 300 stored in the system 100 .

[0051] The operation of the selection unit 104 will be described in more detail with reference to FIG. 3 as an example. First, the selection unit 104 acquires the condition 311 from the database 310. Next, the selection unit 104 refers to the condition 311 and determines whether or not there is a condition satisfied by one or more evaluation indexes included in the input information 300. The condition satisfied by one or more evaluation indexes included in the input information 300 is the condition 311 "10 or more and less than 20". The selection unit 104 acquires, from the database 310, suggested information 312 "left hand + 1 cm" that is linked to the condition 311 "10 or more and less than 20". The selection unit 104 outputs the acquired suggested information 312 "left hand + 1 cm" to the output unit 108.

[0052] In some aspects, the selection unit 104 may calculate one or more values ​​to compare with the condition 311. The one or more values ​​may include any value, such as the difference in dexterity between both feet and both hands, the difference in dexterity between the left and right limbs, the difference in dexterity between the left and right hands, the difference in dexterity between the left and right feet, or the absolute value of the dexterity between the left and right limbs. In the example of FIG. 3 , the selection unit 104 may calculate the difference in dexterity between the left and right hands as one or more values. The calculation result of the one or more values ​​is "15" (evaluation index for left-hand dexterity "100" - evaluation index for right-hand dexterity "85"). If one or more values ​​are calculated, the selection unit 104 may perform the above-described process using the one or more values ​​instead of one or more evaluation indexes included in the input information 300.

[0053] The output unit 108 outputs the suggested information 312 "Left hand +1 cm" as output information 320. In a certain aspect, the output unit 108 may generate a sentence to be provided to the user from the suggested information 312 and output the generated sentence as output information 320. As an example, the output unit 108 may generate and output a sentence such as "We recommend a bat with a grip for the left hand that is 1 cm thicker than the grip for the right hand."

[0054] As described with reference to FIG. 3 , the plurality of pieces of proposal information 312 include a plurality of pieces of sports equipment information. Selecting one or more pieces of proposal information linked to conditions satisfied by one or more evaluation indexes included in the input information 300 from the plurality of pieces of proposal information 312 includes selecting one or more pieces of sports equipment information from the plurality of pieces of sports equipment information as one or more pieces of proposal information. In this way, the system 100 can provide the user with sports equipment proposal information based on the evaluation indexes for the left and right limbs. The user can refer to the proposal information to select sports equipment suitable for them from a wide range of sports equipment. Furthermore, companies selling sports equipment can use the system 100 to suggest sports equipment suitable for their customers.

[0055] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a second suggestion function provided by the system 100. The second suggestion function is a function that suggests a sports equipment customization method suitable for each individual. The system 100 receives input information 400 and refers to a database 410 in the storage unit 106. Next, the system 100 selects one or more pieces of sports equipment customization information corresponding to the input information 400 as suggested information. Next, the system 100 outputs output information 420 including the suggested information.

[0056] The input unit 102 receives the input information 400 and outputs the input information 400 to the selection unit 104. The input unit 102 may also register the input information 400 in the storage unit 106. The input information 400 is the same information as the input information 300, and the description thereof will not be repeated. In some aspects, depending on the type of customization of the sports equipment to be proposed, the input information 400 may not include some of the evaluation indexes. In other aspects, the input information 400 may include information specifying desired proposed information in addition to each evaluation index.

[0057] When suggesting a customization method for sports equipment, the selection unit 104 refers to a database 410 related to sports equipment customization registered in the storage unit 106. The database 410 includes multiple sets of correspondences between conditions 411 and suggested information 412. That is, the database 410 includes multiple pieces of suggested information. The conditions 411 are defined using one or more evaluation indexes. The conditions 411 may also include evaluation indexes included in the input information 400. In the example of FIG. 4, the conditions 411 indicate a difference in dexterity between the left and right feet. The suggested information 412 includes information on a customization method for sports equipment linked to the conditions 411. In the example of FIG. 4, the suggested information 412 indicates a method for adjusting the weight of the left and right shoes. As another example, the suggested information 412 may indicate a method for selecting components for the upper, insole, midsole, and outsole of the shoe. In some aspects, each condition 411 may be linked to multiple pieces of suggested information 412. In another aspect, each condition 411 in the database 410 may be updated based on input information 400 stored in the system 100 .

[0058] The operation of the selection unit 104 will be described in more detail with reference to FIG. 4 as an example. First, the selection unit 104 acquires a condition 411 from the database 410. Next, the selection unit 104 refers to the condition 411 and determines whether or not a condition exists that is satisfied by one or more evaluation indexes included in the input information 400. The condition that is satisfied by one or more evaluation indexes included in the input information 400 is the condition 411 "10 or greater and less than 20." The selection unit 104 acquires, from the database 410, suggested information 412 "left foot + 10g" that is linked to the condition 411 "10 or greater and less than 20." The selection unit 104 outputs the acquired suggested information 412 "left foot + 10g" to the output unit 108.

[0059] In some aspects, the selection unit 104 may calculate one or more values ​​to compare with the condition 411. The one or more values ​​may include any value, such as the difference in dexterity between both feet and both hands, the difference in dexterity between the left and right limbs, the difference in dexterity between the left and right hands, the difference in dexterity between the left and right feet, or the absolute value of the dexterity between the left and right limbs. In the example of FIG. 4 , the selection unit 104 calculates the difference in dexterity between the left and right feet as one or more values. The calculation result of the one or more values ​​is "15" (evaluation index for left foot dexterity "130" - evaluation index for right foot dexterity "115"). If one or more values ​​are calculated, the selection unit 104 may perform the above-described process using the one or more values ​​instead of one or more evaluation indexes included in the input information 400.

[0060] The output unit 108 outputs the suggested information 412 "left foot +10g" as output information 420. In a certain aspect, the output unit 108 may generate a sentence to be provided to the user from the suggested information 412 and output the generated sentence as output information 420. As an example, the output unit 108 may generate and output a sentence such as "We recommend that the shoe on your left foot be 10g heavier than the shoe on your right foot."

[0061] In one aspect, system 100 may include multiple databases to accommodate various customizations. As an example, system 100 may include database 430 related to shoe stiffness adjustment. Database 430 includes multiple sets of correspondences between conditions 431 and suggested information 432. System 100 may present suggestions for adjusting the stiffness of left and right shoes to the user by referring to database 430. As another example, system 100 may include database 440 related to shoe grip adjustment. Database 440 includes multiple sets of correspondences between conditions 441 and suggested information 442. System 100 may present suggestions for adjusting the grips of left and right shoes to the user by referring to database 440. Furthermore, system 100 may combine multiple databases, such as databases 410, 420, and 430, to propose comprehensive customization of sports equipment.

[0062] As described with reference to FIG. 4, system 100 can provide the user with suggested information on how to customize sports equipment based on the evaluation indexes for the left and right limbs. The user can refer to the suggested information to customize the sports equipment to make it easier to use. Furthermore, companies that sell sports equipment can use system 100 to suggest sports equipment customization services or customized goods that are suitable for their customers.

[0063] 4, the plurality of pieces of suggested information 412, 432, 442 include customization information for a plurality of pieces of sports equipment. Selecting one or more pieces of suggested information linked to a condition satisfied by one or more evaluation indexes included in the input information 400 from the plurality of pieces of suggested information 412, 432, 442 includes selecting one or more pieces of customization information for one or more pieces of sports equipment as one or more pieces of suggested information from the customization information for the plurality of pieces of sports equipment.

[0064] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of a third suggestion function provided by the system 100. The third suggestion function is a function of suggesting sports suitable for each individual. The system 100 accepts input information (input information 500A, 500B, etc.) and refers to a database (database 510A, 510B, etc.) in the storage unit 106. Next, the system 100 selects one or more pieces of sports information corresponding to the input information as suggested information. Next, the system 100 outputs output information (output information 520A, 520B, etc.) including the suggested information.

[0065] The input unit 102 receives input information (input information 500A, 500B, etc.) and outputs the input information to the selection unit 104. The input unit 102 may also register the input information in the storage unit 106. The input information is the same information as the input information 300, 400, and the description thereof will not be repeated. In some aspects, depending on the type of sport to be proposed, the input information may not include some evaluation indexes. In other aspects, the input information may include information specifying desired proposed information in addition to each evaluation index.

[0066] When suggesting a sport, the selection unit 104 refers to a database related to sports registered in the storage unit 106. In a certain aspect, the system 100 may have a database for each type of sport. In the example of FIG. 5, the system 100 has a database 510A for track and field events and a database 510B for ball games. The system 100 may also have a database for any other sport. The system 100 may also combine these databases to suggest a sport suitable for the user from among various sports. Furthermore, the sports database does not need to be separated by sport. In this case, the system 100 may refer to the sports database and suggest a sport suitable for the user from among various sports.

[0067] Database 510A includes multiple sets of correspondences between conditions 511A and proposed information 513A. Database 510B includes multiple sets of correspondences between conditions 511B and 512B and proposed information 513B. Like database 510B, a database included in system 100 may include multiple conditions. Each of conditions 511A, 511B, and 512B is defined using one or more evaluation indexes. Furthermore, conditions 511A, 511B, and 512B may include evaluation indexes included in the input information. In the example of FIG. 5, condition 511A indicates characteristics estimated to be suitable for each sport (track and field). Similarly, a combination of condition 511B and condition 512B indicates characteristics estimated to be suitable for each sport (ball game). Proposal information 513A includes information on the sport (track and field) linked to condition 511A. Suggested information 513B includes information on sports (ball games) linked to a combination of conditions 511B and 512B. In the example of FIG. 5, suggested information 513A and 513B in the sports database include track and field events, throwing events, soccer, racket sports, and basketball, but this is merely an example. The sports database may include any sport as suggested information. In some aspects, multiple conditions may be linked to multiple pieces of suggested information. In other aspects, each condition in databases 510A and 510B may be updated based on input information 500A and 500B stored in system 100.

[0068] The operation of the selection unit 104 will be described in more detail using FIG. 5 as an example. When making a suggestion about track and field events, the selection unit 104 first obtains condition 511A from database 510A. Next, the selection unit 104 references 511A and determines whether or not there is a condition satisfied by one or more evaluation indexes included in input information 500A. The condition satisfied by one or more evaluation indexes included in input information 500A is condition 511A "feet >= hands". The selection unit 104 obtains proposal information 513A "track events" linked to condition 511A "feet >= hands" from database 510A. The selection unit 104 outputs the obtained proposal information 513A "track events" to the output unit 108.

[0069] When making a suggestion for a ball game, the selection unit 104 first acquires conditions 511B and 512B from the database 510B. Next, the selection unit 104 references conditions 511B and 512B to determine whether a combination of conditions satisfied by one or more evaluation indexes included in the input information 500B exists. The combinations of conditions satisfied by one or more evaluation indexes included in the input information 500B are the combination of condition 511B "hands > feet" and condition 512B "left hand or right hand > 100" and the combination of condition 511B "hands > feet" and condition 512B "|left hand - right hand| < 10". The selection unit 104 acquires proposal information 513B "racquet sports, basketball" linked to this combination of conditions from the database 510B. The selection unit 104 outputs the obtained proposal information 513B "racquet sports, basketball" to the output unit 108.

[0070] In one aspect, the selection unit 104 may calculate one or more values ​​to compare with each of the conditions 511A, 511B, and 512B. The one or more values ​​may include any value, such as the difference in dexterity between both feet and both hands, the difference in dexterity between the left and right limbs, the difference in dexterity between the left and right hands, the difference in dexterity between the left and right feet, or the absolute value of the dexterity between the left and right limbs. Furthermore, the one or more values ​​may include one or more evaluation indexes included in the input information 500A and 500B. If the one or more values ​​are calculated, the selection unit 104 may perform the above-described process using the one or more values ​​instead of the one or more evaluation indexes included in the input information 500A and 500B.

[0071] When making a suggestion about track and field events, the output unit 108 outputs suggested information 513A "track events" as output information 520A. When making a suggestion about ball games, the output unit 108 outputs suggested information 513B "racquet sports, basketball" as output information 520B. In a certain aspect, the output unit 108 may generate a sentence to be provided to the user from suggested information 513A, 513B, etc., and output the generated sentence as output information. As an example, the output unit 108 may generate and output a sentence such as "You are more dexterous with your feet than with your hands, so I recommend track events."

[0072] As described with reference to FIG. 5, the multiple pieces of suggested information 513A, 513B include multiple pieces of sports information. Selecting one or more pieces of suggested information from the multiple pieces of suggested information 513A, 513B that are linked to conditions satisfied by one or more evaluation indexes included in the input information 500A, 500B includes selecting one or more pieces of suggested information from the multiple pieces of sports information. This allows the system 100 to provide the user with sports suggested information based on the evaluation indexes for the left and right limbs. The user can refer to the suggested information and try a sport that is suitable for the motor abilities of their left and right limbs. Furthermore, by using the system 100, companies that sell sports equipment can suggest sports equipment suitable for a customer's new sport.

[0073] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of a fourth suggestion function provided by the system 100. The fourth suggestion function is a function for suggesting a sports playing style suitable for each individual. The system 100 receives input information 600 and references a database 610 in the storage unit 106. Next, the system 100 selects one or more sports playing styles corresponding to the input information 600 as suggested information. Next, the system 100 outputs output information 620 including the suggested information. In one aspect, the system 100 may suggest a playing style as well as a practice method suitable for that playing style. In another aspect, the system 100 may suggest either a playing style or a practice method suitable for the user.

[0074] The input unit 102 receives the input information 600 and outputs the input information 600 to the selection unit 104. The input unit 102 may also register the input information 600 in the storage unit 106. The input information 600 is the same information as the input information 300, 400, 500A, and 500B, and the description thereof will not be repeated. In some situations, depending on the type of playing style of the proposed sport, the input information 600 may not include some evaluation indexes. In other situations, the input information 600 may include information specifying desired proposed information in addition to each evaluation index.

[0075] When suggesting a play style, the selection unit 104 refers to a database 610 related to play styles registered in the storage unit 106. The database 610 includes multiple sets of correspondences between conditions 611 and suggested information 612. That is, the database 610 includes multiple pieces of suggested information. The conditions 611 are defined using one or more evaluation indicators. The conditions 611 may also include evaluation indicators included in the input information 600. In the example of FIG. 6, the conditions 611 indicate combinations of characteristics that are estimated to be suitable for each play style.

[0076] The suggested information 612 includes information on a playing style linked to the condition 611. In the example of FIG. 6, the suggested information 612 includes a baseball playing style (more specifically, suitability for transitioning to batting left-handed), but this is merely an example. The suggested information 612 may include various playing styles for multiple types of sports. In one aspect, each condition 611 may be linked to multiple pieces of suggested information 612. In another aspect, the suggested information 612 may further include a practice method suitable for the playing style. In another aspect, the suggested information 612 may include a practice method rather than a playing style. In yet another aspect, each condition 611 in the database 610 may be updated based on input information 600 accumulated in the system 100.

[0077] The operation of the selection unit 104 will be described in more detail with reference to FIG. 6 as an example. First, the selection unit 104 acquires a condition 611 from the database 610. Next, the selection unit 104 refers to the condition 611 and determines whether or not a condition exists that is satisfied by one or more evaluation indexes included in the input information 600. The condition that is satisfied by one or more evaluation indexes included in the input information 600 is the condition 611 "-5 or higher." The selection unit 104 acquires, from the database 610, suggested information 612 "High (suitability for transition to left-handed batting)," linked to the condition 611 "-5 or higher." The selection unit 104 outputs the obtained suggested information 612 "High" to the output unit 108. The selection unit 104 may further output a practice method suitable for the obtained suggested information 612 "High" to the output unit 108.

[0078] In some aspects, the selection unit 104 may calculate one or more values ​​to compare with the condition 611. The one or more values ​​may include any value, such as the difference in dexterity between both feet and both hands, the difference in dexterity between left and right limbs, the difference in dexterity between left and right hands, the difference in dexterity between left and right feet, or the absolute value of dexterity between left and right limbs. Furthermore, the one or more values ​​may include one or more evaluation indexes included in the input information 600. In the example of FIG. 6 , the selection unit 104 calculates the difference between the dexterity of the left limb and the dexterity of the right limb as one or more values. The calculation result of the one or more values ​​is “15” (evaluation index for left limb dexterity “115” − evaluation index for right limb dexterity “100”). If one or more values ​​are calculated, the selection unit 104 may use the one or more values ​​instead of one or more evaluation indexes included in the input information 600 to perform the above-described process.

[0079] The output unit 108 outputs the suggested information 612 "high" as output information 620. In some situations, the output unit 108 may generate a sentence to be provided to the user from the suggested information 612 and output the generated sentence as output information 620. As an example, the output unit 108 may generate and output sentences such as "Your aptitude for switching to batting left-handed is high" and "We recommend training to operate the bat with your left hand." In some situations, the system 100 may suggest only one of a playing style or a practice method.

[0080] As described with reference to FIG. 6, system 100 can provide users with suggested information about sports playing styles and practice methods based on the evaluation indexes for the left and right limbs. Users can refer to the suggested information to select playing styles and practice methods that are suited to the athletic abilities of their left and right limbs. Furthermore, companies that sell sports equipment can use system 100 to suggest sports equipment suited to their customers' playing styles and practice methods.

[0081] 6, the plurality of pieces of suggested information 612 include at least one of a plurality of pieces of play style information and a plurality of pieces of practice method information for each sport. Selecting one or more pieces of suggested information from the plurality of pieces of suggested information 612 that are linked to conditions satisfied by one or more evaluation indexes included in the input information 600 includes at least one of selecting one or more pieces of play style information from the plurality of pieces of suggested information as the one or more pieces of suggested information, and selecting one or more pieces of practice method information from the plurality of pieces of suggested information as the one or more pieces of suggested information.

[0082] As described with reference to FIGS. 3 to 6, each of the one or more conditions 311, 411, 431, 441, 511A, 511B, 512B, 611 is defined by the value, range, difference, sum, average value, or a combination thereof of one or more evaluation indexes.

[0083] In one aspect, each database may store a combination of multiple conditions and a combination of multiple pieces of suggested information in association with each other. For example, database 310 may include three conditions and one or more pieces of suggested information for sports equipment associated with the three conditions. In another aspect, system 100 may provide a user with a combination of the suggestions shown in FIGS. 3 to 6. For example, system 100 may suggest a sport and a playing style to a user who wants to start a sport. Furthermore, the system may also suggest sports equipment suitable for starting the suggested sport and a method for customizing the sports equipment in addition to these suggestions.

[0084] In addition, in some aspects, system 100 may be used in a store such as a sports equipment store, or may be linked to online shopping. For example, an online shop linked to system 100 may accept input of an evaluation index of dexterity of both hands and feet from a user. In this case, the online shop may suggest sports equipment, a sports equipment customization method, a sport, a playing style, and a combination thereof that are suitable for the user based on the evaluation index.

[0085] FIG. 7 shows an example of measurement results 700 of the difference in dexterity between the left and right hands and feet for baseball players who have switched or attempted to switch from right-handed to left-handed batting. Record 710 is data for players who successfully switched to left-handed batting. Record 720 is data for players who failed to switch to left-handed batting. Column 730 shows the difference between each player's left-handed and right-handed dexterity (hereinafter sometimes referred to as "laterality difference"). Measurement results 700 reveal that players who successfully switched to left-handed batting have relatively lower dexterity in the right hands and feet compared to players who failed to switch to left-handed batting. This suggests that dexterity and its balance between the left and right hands and feet may affect sports, playing styles, and training methods. Furthermore, if the dexterity balance between the left and right hands and feet is poor, using sports equipment to balance the dexterity between the left and right hands and feet may have a positive impact on sports performance. System 100 can provide users with suggestions based on the above findings. In one aspect, system 100 may be configured to allow data such as measurement results 700 to be input as learning data or analysis data. As an example, when measurement results 700 are input, system 100 may generate database 610 based on the analysis results of measurement results 700. Alternatively, each database may be prepared in advance.

[0086] For example, when operating a tool that requires two hands to be held, if the user has a large difference in dexterity between the left and right hands, they may end up overusing their dexterous hand. In response to this, system 100 can suggest sports equipment that allows for a balanced use of both hands by adjusting the thickness or friction of the grip held by the dexterous hand, as illustrated in FIG.

[0087] As another example, if the dexterity of the two feet is unbalanced, the user may run unsteadily. In this regard, the system 100 may suggest ways to customize the sports equipment to stabilize the user's running, such as by making the shoes heavier or adjusting the friction of the soles for the dexterous foot, as illustrated in FIG.

[0088] Also, as another example, since the dexterity differences between the left and right hands and feet vary from person to person, suitable sports, play styles, etc. also differ for each individual. Regarding this, as illustrated in FIGS. 5 and 6, the system 100 can propose sports, play styles, or training methods according to the movement abilities of the user's left and right hands and feet (the dexterity differences between the left and right hands and feet).

[0089] <C. System Operation> FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of a series of processing procedures until the proposal information in the system 100 is output. In a certain aspect, the processor 201 may read a program for performing the processing of FIG. 8 from the storage 203 into the memory 202 and execute the program. In other aspects, a part or all of the processing may also be realized as a combination of circuit elements configured to execute the processing. Further, in other aspects, the following steps may be executed in a swapped order.

[0090] In step S810, the system 100 acquires the evaluation indexes of the dexterity of both hands and feet as input information. The system 100 may not acquire some evaluation indexes according to the information to be proposed. For example, when the system 100 proposes a customizing method for shoes, it may acquire the evaluation information of the dexterity of the left and right feet and may not receive the evaluation indexes of the dexterity of the left and right hands.

[0091] In step S820, the system 100 acquires information specifying the desired proposal information. As an example, the system 100 may acquire information specifying sports equipment, a customizing method for sports equipment, sports, play styles, training methods, or a combination thereof.

[0092] In step S830, the system 100 determines the database to be referred to. As an example, the system 100 may determine the database to be referred to based on the information specifying the desired proposal information. As another example, the system 100 may refer to a predetermined database.

[0093] In step S840, the system 100 compares the input information with information in the database. More specifically, the system 100 compares one or more evaluation indexes included in the input information with one or more conditions included in the database. Then, the system 100 searches for a condition satisfied by one or more evaluation indexes included in the input information from among one or more conditions included in the database. In step S850, the system 100 selects or generates suggested information. More specifically, the system 100 selects suggested information linked to a condition satisfied by one or more evaluation indexes included in the input information. The system 100 may also generate a sentence including the suggested information. The processing in steps S840 and S850 corresponds to the processing for selecting suggested information and the processing for generating a sentence by the output unit 108 described with reference to FIGS. 3 to 6.

[0094] In step S860, system 100 outputs the suggestion information or a sentence including the suggestion information. In one aspect, system 100 may output the suggestion information or a sentence including the suggestion information to a display of system 100. In another aspect, system 100 may transmit the suggestion information or a sentence including the suggestion information to terminal 110.

[0095] As described with reference to Fig. 8, an information provision program may be provided for outputting suggested information about sports based on the motor abilities of an individual's left and right limbs. The information provision program causes a computer (system 100) to acquire one or more evaluation indexes for the dexterity of the user's left and right limbs, select one or more pieces of suggested information linked to conditions satisfied by one or more evaluation indexes from among a plurality of pieces of suggested information linked to one or more conditions defined using one or more evaluation indexes prepared in advance, and output the selected one or more pieces of suggested information.

[0096] <D.まとめ> As described above, system 100 according to the present embodiment can make sports-related suggestions, such as sports equipment, a sports equipment customization method, a sport, a playing style, a practice method, or a combination thereof, that are suitable for each user, based on the dexterity characteristics of each user. By using system 100, users can obtain suggested information from a different perspective than their own, regarding sports equipment, sports equipment customization, a sport, a playing style, a practice method, etc. that are suitable for them.

[0097] The embodiments disclosed herein should be considered to be illustrative in all respects and not restrictive. The scope of the present disclosure is defined by the claims, not by the above description, and is intended to include all modifications within the meaning and scope equivalent to the claims. Furthermore, the disclosures described in the embodiments and each modification are intended to be implemented, as far as possible, either alone or in combination. [Explanation of symbols]

[0098] 100 System, 102 Input section, 104 Selection section, 106 Memory section, 108 Output section, 110 Terminal, 201 Processor, 202 Memory, 203 Storage, 204 External device IF, 205 Input IF, 206 Output IF, 207 Communication IF, 300, 400, 500, 600 Input information, 310, 410, 430, 440, 510A, 510B, 610 Database, 311, 411, 421, 431, 511A, 511B, 512B, 611 Condition, 312, 412, 432, 442, 513A, 513B, 612 Proposal information, 320, 420, 520A, 520B, 620 Output information, 700 Measurement results, 710, 720 Record, 730 columns.

Claims

1. an input unit that acquires input information including one or more evaluation indexes of dexterity of the user's left and right limbs; a storage unit that stores a plurality of pieces of proposal information linked to one or more conditions defined using the one or more evaluation indexes; a selection unit that refers to the storage unit and selects, from the plurality of pieces of proposal information, one or more pieces of proposal information that are linked to a condition satisfied by the one or more evaluation indexes included in the input information; and an output unit that outputs the one or more pieces of selected suggested information.

2. the plurality of pieces of suggested information include a plurality of pieces of sports equipment information; 2. The information providing system according to claim 1, wherein selecting, from the plurality of pieces of proposed information, the one or more pieces of proposed information linked to conditions satisfied by the one or more evaluation indexes included in the input information includes selecting, from the plurality of pieces of sports equipment information, one or more pieces of sports equipment information as the one or more pieces of proposed information.

3. the plurality of pieces of suggested information include customization information for a plurality of pieces of sports equipment; 2. The information providing system of claim 1, wherein selecting, from the plurality of pieces of proposed information, the one or more pieces of proposed information linked to conditions satisfied by the one or more evaluation indexes included in the input information includes selecting, as the one or more pieces of proposed information, one or more pieces of customization information for sports equipment from the plurality of pieces of customization information for sports equipment.

4. the plurality of pieces of suggested information include a plurality of pieces of sports information; The information providing system of claim 1, wherein selecting one or more pieces of proposed information from the plurality of pieces of proposed information that are linked to conditions satisfied by the one or more evaluation indexes included in the input information includes selecting one or more pieces of sports information from the plurality of pieces of sports information as the one or more pieces of proposed information.

5. the plurality of pieces of suggested information include at least one of a plurality of pieces of play style information and a plurality of pieces of practice method information for each sport; Selecting one or more pieces of proposal information linked to a condition satisfied by one or more evaluation indexes included in the input information from the plurality of pieces of proposal information includes: selecting one or more pieces of play style information from the plurality of pieces of play style information as the one or more pieces of suggested information; The information providing system according to claim 1 , comprising at least one of selecting one or more pieces of practice method information from the plurality of pieces of practice method information as the one or more pieces of suggested information.

6. obtaining one or more metrics of dexterity of the user's left and right limbs; selecting, from among a plurality of pieces of proposal information linked to one or more conditions defined using the one or more evaluation indexes prepared in advance, one or more pieces of proposal information linked to a condition satisfied by the one or more evaluation indexes; and outputting the one or more pieces of selected suggested information.

7. obtaining one or more metrics of dexterity of the user's left and right limbs; selecting, from among a plurality of pieces of proposal information linked to one or more conditions defined using the one or more evaluation indexes prepared in advance, one or more pieces of proposal information linked to a condition satisfied by the one or more evaluation indexes; and outputting the one or more pieces of selected suggested information.

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