System

An automated reservation system addresses inefficiencies in manual reservation methods by checking overlaps and offering incentives, enhancing customer satisfaction and operational efficiency.

JP2026017354APending Publication Date: 2026-02-04SOFTBANK GROUP CORP
View PDF 1 Cites 0 Cited by

Patent Information

Application Number
JP2024118136
Authority / Receiving Office
JP · JP
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2024-07-23
Publication Date
2026-02-04

Smart Images

  • Figure 2026017354000001_ABST
    Figure 2026017354000001_ABST
Patent Text Reader

Abstract

A system is provided.SOLUTION: A system comprising: means for acquiring reservation information of an enterprise; means for storing information on a past reservation history and spare time of a customer in a database; means for providing an interface for inputting a new reservation; means for receiving the new reservation information and checking duplication with an existing reservation; means for determining priority to eliminate duplication of reservations when there is a duplicate reservation; means for transmitting a reservation change request to the customer and presenting a privilege; means for receiving a response from the customer and updating a reservation schedule; and means for transmitting a notification of reservation confirmation to all concerned parties.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1
Need to check novelty before this filing date? Find Prior Art

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The technology of the present disclosure relates to a system. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent document 1 discloses a persona chatbot control method performed by at least one processor, the method including the steps of receiving a user utterance, adding the user utterance to a prompt including an instruction sentence related to a description of the chatbot character, encoding the prompt, and inputting the encoded prompt into a language model to generate a chatbot utterance in response to the user utterance. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2022-180282 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] When businesses handle reservations, manual methods such as phone calls and emails take a lot of time and effort, and they often cannot respond quickly to requests from people looking to make reservations. This results in lost opportunities and lower customer satisfaction, which has a negative impact on the business's sales. To solve this problem, a system that can efficiently adjust reservations is needed. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] To solve this problem, the present invention provides a means for acquiring reservation information from businesses and storing information about customers' past reservation history and available time in a database. It also provides an interface for inputting new reservations and develops a system that includes a means for receiving new reservation information, comparing it with existing reservations, and checking for overlaps. When overlapping reservations exist, the system determines priorities and automatically proposes reservation change requests and special offers to the customer. By receiving responses from customers, updating the reservation schedule, and sending confirmation of reservations to all parties, the system streamlines business reservation operations and prevents lost opportunities and reduced customer satisfaction.

[0006] "Business operator" refers to a business operator that provides a service, and includes beauty salons, small hospitals, and esthetic salons.

[0007] "Reservation information" is data related to a service reservation, and includes information such as the name of the person making the reservation, contact information, reservation date and time, and service details.

[0008] "Customer" means a person who uses or desires to use the services of a business.

[0009] "Reservation history" refers to data related to past reservations made by a customer, including the date and time, the service details, and whether or not the customer visited the store.

[0010] "Time leeway" refers to the time period during which the service can be received other than the date and time specified by the customer.

[0011] A "database" is an information system for efficiently managing, storing, searching, and processing large amounts of data.

[0012] An "interface" is a screen or tool that serves as a point of contact for users to access and operate a system.

[0013] "New reservation" refers to the act of a customer making a new reservation with a business operator, and includes the process of inputting and submitting reservation information.

[0014] "Verification" refers to the process of comparing new reservation information with existing reservation information to check for matches or overlaps.

[0015] "Overlap" refers to a situation where two or more reservations compete for the same date, time, and service.

[0016] "Priority" refers to the criteria for setting the priority of multiple customers or reservation information.

[0017] "Request to change reservation" refers to the act of suggesting to a customer that they change the date, time, or content of an existing reservation.

[0018] "Benefits" refers to additional benefits or services provided to customers who change their booking, such as discount coupons.

[0019] "Reservation Schedule" means the overall timetable and plan of reservations managed by the Business.

[0020] "Notification of Confirmed Reservation" refers to the means of communication used to inform all parties of any changes to the reservation information. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0021] [Figure 1] 1 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of the configuration of a data processing system according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] 1 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of main functions of a data processing device and a smart device according to a first embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 10 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of the configuration of a data processing system according to a second embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of main functions of a data processing device and smart glasses according to a second embodiment. [Figure 5]FIG. 10 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of the configuration of a data processing system according to a third embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 11 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of main functions of a data processing device and a headset-type terminal according to a third embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of the configuration of a data processing system according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of main functions of a data processing device and a robot according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 9] 1 shows an emotion map onto which multiple emotions are mapped. [Figure 10] 1 shows an emotion map onto which multiple emotions are mapped. [Figure 11] FIG. 3 is a sequence diagram showing a processing flow of the data processing system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram showing the flow of processing in the data processing system in Application Example 1. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram showing the flow of processing in the data processing system according to the second embodiment when an emotion engine is combined. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram showing the flow of processing in the data processing system in Application Example 2 when an emotion engine is combined. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0022] An example of an embodiment of a system according to the technology of the present disclosure will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0023] First, the terms used in the following description will be explained.

[0024] In the following embodiments, a coded processor (hereinafter simply referred to as a "processor") may be a single arithmetic device or a combination of multiple arithmetic devices. Furthermore, a processor may be a single type of arithmetic device or a combination of multiple types of arithmetic devices. Examples of arithmetic devices include a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), a GPGPU (General-Purpose computing on Graphics Processing Units), and an APU (Accelerated Processing Unit).

[0025] In the following embodiments, a coded RAM (Random Access Memory) is a memory in which information is temporarily stored and is used as a working memory by a processor.

[0026] In the following embodiments, the coded storage is one or more non-volatile storage devices that store various programs, various parameters, etc. Examples of non-volatile storage devices include flash memory (SSD (Solid State Drive)), magnetic disks (e.g., hard disks), and magnetic tapes.

[0027] In the following embodiments, a communication I / F (Interface) with a symbol is an interface including a communication processor, an antenna, etc. The communication I / F controls communication between multiple computers. Examples of communication standards applied to the communication I / F include wireless communication standards including 5G (5th Generation Mobile Communication System), Wi-Fi (registered trademark), Bluetooth (registered trademark), etc.

[0028] In the following embodiments, "A and / or B" is synonymous with "at least one of A and B." In other words, "A and / or B" means that it may be only A, only B, or a combination of A and B. Furthermore, in this specification, the same concept as "A and / or B" is also applied when three or more things are expressed connected by "and / or."

[0029] [First embodiment]

[0030] FIG. 1 shows an example of the configuration of a data processing system 10 according to the first embodiment.

[0031] 1, a data processing system 10 includes a data processing device 12 and a smart device 14. An example of the data processing device 12 is a server.

[0032] The data processing device 12 includes a computer 22, a database 24, and a communication I / F 26. The computer 22 is an example of a "computer" according to the technology of the present disclosure. The computer 22 includes a processor 28, a RAM 30, and a storage 32. The processor 28, the RAM 30, and the storage 32 are connected to a bus 34. The database 24 and the communication I / F 26 are also connected to the bus 34. The communication I / F 26 is connected to a network 54. Examples of the network 54 include a WAN (Wide Area Network) and / or a LAN (Local Area Network).

[0033] The smart device 14 includes a computer 36, a reception device 38, an output device 40, a camera 42, and a communication I / F 44. The computer 36 includes a processor 46, a RAM 48, and a storage 50. The processor 46, the RAM 48, and the storage 50 are connected to a bus 52. The reception device 38, the output device 40, and the camera 42 are also connected to the bus 52.

[0034] The reception device 38 includes a touch panel 38A, a microphone 38B, and the like, and receives user input. The touch panel 38A detects contact with an indicator (for example, a pen or a finger) to receive user input by the touch of the indicator. The microphone 38B detects the user's voice to receive user input by voice. The control unit 46A transmits data indicating the user input received by the touch panel 38A and the microphone 38B to the data processing device 12. In the data processing device 12, the specific processing unit 290 acquires the data indicating the user input.

[0035] The output device 40 includes a display 40A and a speaker 40B, and presents data to the user 20 by outputting the data in a form of expression that the user 20 can perceive (for example, audio and / or text). The display 40A displays visible information such as text and images in accordance with instructions from the processor 46. The speaker 40B outputs audio in accordance with instructions from the processor 46. The camera 42 is a compact digital camera equipped with an optical system including a lens, aperture, and shutter, and an imaging element such as a CMOS (Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor) image sensor or a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) image sensor.

[0036] The communication I / F 44 is connected to a network 54. The communication I / Fs 44 and 26 control the exchange of various information between the processor 46 and the processor 28 via the network 54.

[0037] FIG. 2 shows an example of the main functions of the data processing device 12 and the smart device 14.

[0038] 2, in the data processing device 12, a specific process is performed by the processor 28. A specific processing program 56 is stored in the storage 32. The specific processing program 56 is an example of a "program" according to the technology of the present disclosure. The processor 28 reads the specific processing program 56 from the storage 32 and executes the read specific processing program 56 on the RAM 30. The specific process is realized by the processor 28 operating as a specific processing unit 290 in accordance with the specific processing program 56 executed on the RAM 30.

[0039] The storage 32 stores a data generation model 58 and an emotion identification model 59. The data generation model 58 and the emotion identification model 59 are used by the identification processing unit 290.

[0040] In the smart device 14, the processor 46 performs the reception output process. The storage 50 stores a reception output program 60. The reception output program 60 is used in conjunction with the specific processing program 56 by the data processing system 10. The processor 46 reads the reception output program 60 from the storage 50 and executes the read reception output program 60 on the RAM 48. The reception output process is realized by the processor 46 operating as the control unit 46A in accordance with the reception output program 60 executed on the RAM 48.

[0041] Next, a description will be given of the specific processing performed by the specific processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as a "server" and the smart device 14 will be referred to as a "terminal."

[0042] The AI ​​reservation concierge system based on this invention performs the following specific processes to streamline reservation coordination work for businesses: This system realizes optimal reservation management through communication between the server, terminals, and users.

[0043] First, in this system, the server is equipped with a means for collecting reservation information from businesses. This server connects with the business's reservation system and obtains reservation information in real time. This allows the server to accurately grasp all reservation information held by the business (reserved time slots, names of people who made reservations, contact information, etc.).

[0044] Next, the server has a database for managing customer information. Information about customer contact details, past reservation history, and availability is stored in this database. This allows detailed information for each customer to be kept at all times, helping to efficiently manage reservations.

[0045] An interface for entering new reservations is provided on the terminal. Users (customers) can make new reservations through the website or app of a beauty salon or esthetic salon. The user enters the desired date and time, service details, and contact information, and presses the send button.

[0046] The new reservation information is received by the server. The server temporarily stores the newly received reservation information in a database and checks whether it overlaps with existing reservation information. If there is an overlap, it detects the information of customers who have already made reservations and checks the customer's availability.

[0047] If a duplicate is detected, the server executes a priority determination process. It prioritizes customers who have time and requests them to reschedule. This request is sent from the server via email or chat. In addition, the server offers incentives (e.g., discount coupons) to encourage the customer to reschedule.

[0048] The customer receives a reservation change request through their terminal. The interface displays options such as "Change" or "Don't change," and the customer confirms the change by responding. If the customer agrees to the reservation change, the information is received by the server, and the reservation schedule is updated.

[0049] The server saves the updated reservation information in its database and automatically updates the reservation systems of all participating businesses. Finally, the server sends a confirmation of the reservation to all parties, including information about the new reservation date and time and special offers.

[0050] Specific examples

[0051] For example:

[0052] scenario

[0053] This section explains the processing flow when a reservation for Person A already exists at Beauty Salon A for 14:00 on December 10th, but Person B also wishes to make a reservation for the same time on the same day.

[0054] 1. Collection of reservation information

[0055] The server retrieves Mr. A's reservation information for December 10th at 2:00 p.m. from Beauty Salon A's reservation system and saves it in the database.

[0056] 2. Enter a new reservation

[0057] The terminal, for example the website of beauty salon A, provides an interface for person B to enter a new appointment for December 10th at 14:00.

[0058] 3. Receiving new reservations

[0059] The server receives Mr. B's new reservation information and temporarily stores it in the database.

[0060] 4. Check for duplicate reservations

[0061] The server confirms that the new reservation information overlaps with Mr. A's existing reservation.

[0062] 5. Check the customer's time availability

[0063] The server retrieves Mr. A's available time (for example, December 10th, 13:00-17:00) from the database.

[0064] 6. Requesting a change to your reservation

[0065] The server sends an email to Mr. A asking, "Could you please change your reservation to December 10th at 3:00 PM?" and presents a 5% discount coupon.

[0066] 7. Collecting Customer Responses

[0067] The device, for example, Person A's smartphone, provides an interface for Person A to respond to the email. Person A selects "Yes" to change the reservation.

[0068] 8. Updating your reservation schedule

[0069] The server changes A's reservation to December 10th at 15:00, and confirms B's reservation to December 10th at 14:00. This information is reflected in Beauty Salon A's reservation system.

[0070] 9. Sending confirmation notices

[0071] The server sends a reservation confirmation notification to Mr. A, Mr. B, and salon A.

[0072] This system will enable businesses to significantly reduce the effort required to arrange reservations, improving customer satisfaction and preventing lost opportunities.

[0073] The processing flow will be explained below.

[0074] Step 1:

[0075] The server accesses the operator's reservation system API and retrieves the latest reservation information (reserved time slot, name of the person making the reservation, contact information, etc.). This information is stored in the server's database.

[0076] Step 2:

[0077] The server stores customer contact information, past booking history, and availability information in a database, ensuring that detailed information about each customer is always available.

[0078] Step 3:

[0079] The terminal provides an interface for users (customers) to enter new reservations. The user inputs the desired date and time, service details, and contact information, and then presses the send button.

[0080] Step 4:

[0081] The server receives the new reservation information sent from the terminal and temporarily stores the received information in the server's database.

[0082] Step 5:

[0083] The server checks whether there are any overlaps between the new reservation and existing reservations, and if there are any overlaps between the new reservation and existing reservations, it lists the overlaps.

[0084] Step 6:

[0085] The server checks the availability of time for each customer to which the overlapping reservations belong based on the overlapping reservation information, and sets a criterion for determining priority.

[0086] Step 7:

[0087] The server sends a request to change the reservation to customers who have time. The request is sent via email or chat, and a special offer (e.g., a discount coupon) is offered.

[0088] Step 8:

[0089] The terminal provides an interface to customers who have received a reservation change request, displaying the change request, and the customer can choose to "change" or "not change."

[0090] Step 9:

[0091] The server receives the customer's response from the terminal and updates the reservation schedule according to the response. If the customer selects "Change," the changed reservation is confirmed.

[0092] Step 10:

[0093] The server saves the updated reservation information in a database and also reflects it in the reservation systems of all parties involved, i.e., other reservation participants and businesses.

[0094] Step 11:

[0095] The server will then send a confirmation of the booking to all parties via email and chat, including the new booking date and time and any special offers that may be offered.

[0096] Through the above processing steps, the AI ​​reservation concierge system efficiently handles reservation adjustment tasks for businesses, preventing lost opportunities and reduced customer satisfaction.

[0097] Example 1

[0098] Next, a description will be given of Example 1. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as a "server" and the smart device 14 will be referred to as a "terminal."

[0099] Currently, many businesses use reservation systems, but they spend a lot of time and effort dealing with duplicate reservations. In order to improve customer satisfaction, they need to respond appropriately, such as by requesting changes to reservations or offering special offers, but these tasks place a burden on businesses. For this reason, there is a demand for a system that can efficiently manage reservations and increase customer satisfaction.

[0100] The specific processing by the specific processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in the first embodiment is realized by the following means.

[0101] In this invention, the server includes a means for acquiring reservation data from the business, a means for storing data on customer history and time availability, and a means for providing a user interface for inputting new reservations, thereby enabling efficient reservation management and quick and appropriate response even in the case of overlapping reservations.

[0102] The "means of acquiring reservation data from businesses" refers to a method for importing reservation information held by businesses into a server using a communication means such as an API or database.

[0103] The "means for storing data on customer history and availability" refers to a method for recording information on the history of reservations made by customers in the past and the time slots available for reservations in a database.

[0104] The "means for providing a user interface for entering a new reservation" is a web page or application interface that allows a customer to enter a new reservation online.

[0105] "Means for receiving new reservation data and comparing it with existing reservations to check for overlaps" refers to a method in which the server receives reservation information sent by the user and compares it with existing reservation information to check for overlaps.

[0106] The "means for determining priorities to resolve overlapping reservations when there are overlapping reservations" is a method for determining, based on evaluation criteria, which reservation to prioritize when an existing reservation and a new reservation overlap.

[0107] "Means of sending reservation change requests to customers and offering rewards" refers to the use of email or messaging apps to request existing customers to change their reservations when a duplicate reservation occurs and to offer rewards such as special offers or discounts.

[0108] The "means for receiving a response from a customer and updating the reservation schedule" is a method for receiving a customer's response to a reservation change request and adjusting the reservation schedule based on the response.

[0109] The "means for sending a reservation confirmation notice to all parties involved" is a method for notifying all parties involved (for example, customers and businesses) of the information after a reservation is confirmed.

[0110] The AI ​​reservation concierge system based on this invention is designed to streamline reservation coordination work for businesses. This system realizes optimal reservation management through communication between the server, terminals, and users.

[0111] First, the server has a means of acquiring reservation data from businesses. This is done, for example, by linking with the business's reservation system via API to acquire information such as reserved time slots, names of people making reservations, and contact details in real time, and then storing that information in the server's database. For example, reservation information can be acquired from a beauty salon's API and stored in the database.

[0112] Next, the terminal provides a user interface for entering new reservations. This interface is provided as a website or application for the beauty salon or esthetic salon, and allows the user to enter the desired date and time, service details, and contact information, and then submit. This allows the user to easily make a new reservation.

[0113] The new reservation information is received by the server, which first temporarily stores the new reservation information in a database and then compares it with existing reservation information to check for duplicates. This allows for accurate management of reservation schedules.

[0114] Furthermore, the server is equipped with a means for determining priorities to resolve overlapping reservations when there are overlapping reservations. This means sets evaluation criteria based on the customer's past reservation history and available time, and decides which reservation to prioritize. For example, it can prioritize customers who have limited time due to work commitments.

[0115] If a reservation change is necessary, the server sends a request to the customer to change the reservation. At this time, the server uses email or messaging apps to offer rewards such as special offers or discount coupons to make the customer more likely to agree to the change. For example, an email might be sent saying, "Could you change your reservation to December 10th at 3:00 PM? We'll offer you a 5% discount coupon for this change."

[0116] The terminal provides a user interface for receiving responses from customers. The terminal collects customer responses from displayed options such as "Change" or "Don't change" and sends the information to the server. The server updates the reservation schedule based on the received information. This keeps the reservation information up to date in real time.

[0117] Finally, the server saves the updated reservation schedule to the database and sends confirmation notifications to all parties, including information about the new reservation date and time and special offers, so that all parties are kept up to date.

[0118] Specific examples

[0119] For example, the following is the processing flow when a reservation for person A already exists at beauty salon A for 14:00 on December 10th, but person B also wants to make a reservation for the same time on the same day.

[0120] First, the server retrieves Person A's reservation information for December 10th at 14:00 from Beauty Salon A's reservation system and saves it in the database. Next, if Person B wishes to make a new reservation for December 10th at 14:00, the terminal provides an interface for this. The server receives Person B's new reservation information and temporarily saves it in the database. The server then checks whether the reservation information is duplicated and retrieves Person A's available time (for example, December 10th at 13:00-17:00) from the database.

[0121] Next, the server sends Person A an email asking, "Could you change your reservation to December 10th at 3:00 PM?" and presents a 5% discount coupon. Person A receives the reservation change request via a device such as a smartphone and responds. If Person A selects "Yes" and agrees to the reservation change, the information is received by the server. The server changes Person A's reservation to December 10th at 3:00 PM, and confirms Person B's reservation to December 10th at 2:00 PM, and saves this information in the database.

[0122] Finally, the server sends a notification of the confirmed reservation to Mr. A, Mr. B, and salon A. This system allows businesses to significantly reduce the effort required for adjusting reservations, improving customer satisfaction and preventing lost opportunities.

[0123] The flow of the identification process in the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0124] Step 1:

[0125] The server obtains the operator's reservation data. Specifically, it obtains reservation information (reserved time slot, name of the person making the reservation, contact information, etc.) from the operator's reservation system via API and stores that data in a database. The input is the reservation information obtained from the API, and the output is the reservation information stored in the database. This allows you to always have the operator's latest reservation information.

[0126] Step 2:

[0127] A user uses a terminal to enter a new reservation. Specifically, they access the website or application of a beauty salon or esthetic salon, enter the desired date and time, service details, and contact information, and then press the send button. The input is the reservation information entered by the user, and the output is sending that data to the server. This allows the user to easily make a new reservation.

[0128] Step 3:

[0129] The server receives new reservation information. It receives new reservation information sent by the user from the terminal and temporarily stores it in the database. The input is the new reservation information sent from the terminal, and the output is the new reservation information temporarily stored in the database. This allows the new reservation information to be stored on the server and made available for subsequent processing.

[0130] Step 4:

[0131] The server collates the reservation data and checks for duplicates. Specifically, it compares new reservation information with existing reservation information to see if there are any duplicates. The input is the new reservation information and the existing reservation information, and the output is the result of whether there are any duplicates. This makes it possible to check whether there are any duplicate reservations.

[0132] Step 5:

[0133] When an overlap is detected, the server checks the reservation holder's available time. Specifically, for the reservation where an overlap is found, the server retrieves the available time of the existing reservation holder from the database. The input is the information of the existing reservation holder, and the output is data regarding the available time. This makes it possible to check whether the existing reservation holder can change the reservation to another time.

[0134] Step 6:

[0135] The server then sends a request to change the reservation to the existing customer via email or messaging app, offering a reward (e.g., a discount coupon). The input is the existing customer's contact information and the proposed change date and time, and the output is the sent request to change the reservation and the offered reward. This allows the existing customer to respond appropriately.

[0136] Step 7:

[0137] The terminal collects the customer's response. Existing reservation holders respond to the reservation change request through the terminal. For example, a smartphone notification displays the options of "change" or "don't change." The input is the customer's response to the reservation change request, and the output is that response data. This makes it possible to adjust the reservation schedule to reflect the customer's wishes.

[0138] Step 8:

[0139] The server updates the reservation schedule. Based on the customer's response, it determines a new reservation schedule and updates the database. The input is the customer's response and existing reservation information, and the output is the updated reservation schedule. This keeps the reservation information up to date in real time.

[0140] Step 9:

[0141] The server sends a reservation confirmation notification to all parties involved. Based on the updated reservation schedule, notifications are sent to the parties involved (e.g., customers and businesses) via email or messaging app. The input is the updated reservation information and contact information of the parties involved, and the output is the sent reservation confirmation notification. This allows all parties involved to keep track of the latest reservation information.

[0142] (Application example 1)

[0143] Next, a description will be given of Application Example 1. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as a "server" and the smart device 14 will be referred to as a "terminal."

[0144] In conventional reservation management systems, adjustments when overlapping reservations occur are often done manually, which not only takes time and effort but also leads to lower customer satisfaction. Furthermore, if a reservation change request is not handled skillfully, it can cause customer dissatisfaction. Another issue is that there are few ways for customers to easily check their reservation status and respond smoothly.

[0145] The specific processing by the specific processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in the application example 1 is realized by the following means.

[0146] In this invention, the server includes a means for acquiring reservation information from the business, a means for storing information on the customer's past reservation history and available time in a database, and a means for providing an interface for inputting new reservations. This allows the business to efficiently manage reservation information, and also enables customers to smoothly respond by easily checking the reservation status.

[0147] "Business reservation information" refers to information obtained by a business from a customer, including the date and time of the reservation, the name of the person making the reservation, contact information, and the details of the reservation.

[0148] "Past reservation history of a customer" refers to historical information such as the date and time of reservations made by the customer in the past, and the details of the services.

[0149] "Information about availability of time" is information about the time slots available to the customer in consideration of other reservations and personal plans.

[0150] A "database" is a system or software for efficiently storing, retrieving, and managing information.

[0151] An "interface" is a software or hardware component that provides a means for a user to access a system and input or obtain information.

[0152] "Receiving reservation information" is the process by which the reservation system receives and stores information about a new or existing reservation on the server.

[0153] A "means for checking for overlaps" is an algorithm or process for determining whether new reservations overlap in time with existing reservations.

[0154] The "means for determining priority" is an algorithm or process that sets priorities taking into account factors such as the customer's available time in order to eliminate overlapping reservations.

[0155] The "means for sending a reservation change request" is a process for sending a notification to a customer requesting a change to their reservation in order to resolve the overlapping reservation.

[0156] "Offering means" is the process of offering discounts, coupons, and other offers to customers to encourage them to change their reservations.

[0157] The "means for receiving a response from a customer" is a process for receiving and processing a customer's response to a reservation change request.

[0158] The "means for updating reservation schedules" is a process for updating the start time and date of reservations based on the received customer response.

[0159] The "means for sending a notification of confirmed reservation" is a notification that sends new reservation information to all parties for confirmation.

[0160] An "automated notification system" is a system that quickly and accurately notifies relevant parties of new or changed reservation information.

[0161] A "natural language processing engine" is a software technology that understands human language and processes it appropriately in the context of voice and text.

[0162] The AI ​​reservation concierge system based on this invention is a system that realizes optimal reservation management through communication between servers, terminals, and users in order to streamline reservation adjustment work for businesses. This system uses the following means.

[0163] The server is equipped with an API linkage means for linking with the business operator's reservation system and obtaining reservation information in real time. This means that all reservation information held by the business operator (such as reserved time slots, names of people who made reservations, contact information, etc.) can be accurately grasped.

[0164] The server then has a database to manage customer information, including contact details, past booking history, and availability. It is recommended to use commercial database software such as MongoDB for this database.

[0165] The interface for entering new reservations is provided via devices (smartphones, tablets, PCs, etc.). Customers can use a reservation website or app to enter the desired date and time, service details, and contact information, and then submit the reservation information. Input via voice recognition is also possible, and this process uses OpenAI GPT-4 as a natural language processing engine.

[0166] The new reservation information is received by the server. The server temporarily stores the newly received reservation information in a database and checks for overlaps with existing reservation information. If there are overlaps, the server determines the priority based on the customer's time availability and decides whether to change the reservation.

[0167] If a conflict is detected, the server sends a rescheduling request to customers who have time to spare. This request is sent using Firebase Cloud Messaging (FCM). The notification includes a special offer, such as a 5% discount coupon, to encourage customers to reschedule.

[0168] Customers receive a reservation change request via their smartphone or other device and respond by choosing "change" or "don't change." If the response is "change," the server updates the reservation schedule and notifies all parties of the updated information. This notification system uses an automated notification system.

[0169] As a concrete example, let's say you want to make an appointment at Hair Salon A on December 10th at 2:00 PM. If there is already a reservation for that time slot, the customer will be prompted with the following prompt: "Would you like to change your appointment to December 10th at 3:00 PM? Please answer yes or no." If the customer answers "yes," the appointment will be rescheduled and the updated information will be notified to all parties involved.

[0170] In this way, the system of the present invention significantly reduces the time and effort required for business operators to adjust reservations, making it possible to improve customer satisfaction and prevent opportunity loss.

[0171] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0172] Step 1:

[0173] The server connects to the operator's reservation system via API and obtains reservation information in real time. In this process, information such as the reserved time slot, the name of the person making the reservation, and contact information is obtained and saved in a database. The input is the reservation information from the operator's reservation system, and the output is the reservation information saved in the server's database.

[0174] Step 2:

[0175] The server stores the customer's name, contact details, past booking history, and availability information in a database. This process efficiently manages the information obtained from the customer. The input is the customer's information, and the output is the customer data stored in the database.

[0176] Step 3:

[0177] The terminal provides an interface for entering new reservations. Customers use this interface to enter the desired date and time, service details, and contact information, and then submit the reservation. The input is the reservation information entered by the customer, and the output is the submitted reservation information. Specifically, the user fills out a form on a website or app and presses the submit button.

[0178] Step 4:

[0179] The server receives the new reservation information and temporarily stores it in a database. It then compares it with existing reservation information to check for duplicates. The input is the new reservation information, and the output is the result of checking whether there are any duplicates. In concrete terms, the moment the server receives new reservation information, it automatically starts comparing it with the database.

[0180] Step 5:

[0181] If a duplicate is detected, the server determines the priority based on the customer's time availability. In this process, the server obtains time availability information from the database and determines the priority using an algorithm. The input is the customer's time availability information, and the output is the result of the priority determination. Specifically, the server queries the customer's time availability information and calculates the priority.

[0182] Step 6:

[0183] After determining the priority, the server requests customers who have time to reschedule. This request also includes a special offer, such as a 5% discount coupon. Firebase Cloud Messaging (FCM) is used for notifications. The input is the priority determination result, and the output is the sent notification. Specifically, the server automatically generates a reservation change notification and sends it via FCM.

[0184] Step 7:

[0185] The customer receives a reservation change request through their device and responds by selecting "Change" or "Don't change." The input is the notification sent from the server, and the output is the customer's response. Specifically, the notification is displayed on the device, and the customer taps an option to respond.

[0186] Step 8:

[0187] The server receives the customer's response and updates the reservation schedule. In this process, the reservation date, time, and details are updated and reflected in the reservation systems of all related businesses. The input is the customer's response, and the output is the updated reservation information. Specifically, the server updates the database and reflects the changes in the business's systems via API.

[0188] Step 9:

[0189] The server notifies all parties of the updated reservation information. This notification includes information about the new reservation date and time and any special offers. The input is the updated reservation information, and the output is the notification sent to the parties. Specifically, the server generates a confirmation notification and automatically sends it to the parties.

[0190] Through these steps, the AI ​​reservation concierge system will be operated efficiently, improving convenience for businesses and customers.

[0191] Furthermore, an emotion engine that estimates the user's emotion may be combined. That is, the identification processing unit 290 may estimate the user's emotion using the emotion identification model 59 and perform identification processing using the user's emotion.

[0192] The AI ​​reservation concierge system based on this invention incorporates an emotion engine that recognizes user emotions and responds appropriately based on them to streamline reservation adjustment work for businesses. This system achieves optimal reservation management and improved customer satisfaction through communication between the server, terminals, and users, as well as the emotion engine.

[0193] First, the system provides a means for collecting reservation information from businesses. The server connects to the business's reservation system and obtains reservation information in real time. This information includes the reserved time slot, the name of the person making the reservation, contact information, and other information, and is stored in the server's database. Information about customers' past reservation history and available time is also stored in the database, making it possible to manage detailed information for each customer.

[0194] The terminal provides an interface for users (customers) to input new reservations. The user inputs the desired date and time, service details, and contact information, and then presses the send button. The submitted new reservation information is received by the server and temporarily stored in a database. The server then verifies the new reservation information against existing reservation information to check for duplicates.

[0195] If a new reservation overlaps with an existing reservation, the server checks the customer's availability and determines the priority of each customer to which the overlapping reservation belongs.The server then sends a reservation change request to customers who have time to spare.The emotion engine is utilized in this process.

[0196] The emotion engine analyzes past customer response data, learns customer emotional patterns, and infers emotions based on real-time customer responses. For example, it predicts how a customer will feel about a change request based on their responses to past change requests. It also detects emotions from the content and wording of real-time responses, and adjusts message content and bonus offerings based on the results.

[0197] Specifically, when the server sends a reservation change request, the emotion engine analyzes the customer's emotion data and generates an appropriate message based on that data. This message can increase the likelihood that the customer will accept the change request by including expressions that are easy for the customer to accept, such as discount coupons or special service offers.

[0198] The terminal displays a notification of the change request to the customer who received the reservation change request. The change request notification includes a flexible message based on the analysis results of the emotion engine, so it takes into account the customer's emotions. The customer selects an option such as "change" or "don't change," and the response is sent to the server.

[0199] The server receives the customer's response and updates the reservation schedule. If the customer agrees to the reservation change, the server confirms the change, saves it in the database, and reflects it in the operator's reservation system.

[0200] Finally, the server sends a confirmation of the reservation to all parties, including information about the new reservation date and time and special offers, making the status of the reservation clear to both the customer and the business.

[0201] Specific examples

[0202] scenario

[0203] At beauty salon A, A already has a reservation for 14:00 on December 10th, and B also wants to make a reservation for the same time on the same day. Furthermore, A's response to past requests to change the reservation indicates that she does not particularly like changing the reservation.

[0204] 1. Collection of reservation information

[0205] The server retrieves Mr. A's reservation information for December 10th at 2:00 p.m. from Beauty Salon A's reservation system and saves it in the database.

[0206] 2. Enter a new reservation

[0207] The terminal provides an interface for Person B to enter a new reservation for 14:00 on December 10. Person B enters the desired date and time and contact information, and presses the send button.

[0208] 3. Receiving new reservations

[0209] The server receives Mr. B's new reservation information and stores it in the database.

[0210] 4. Check for duplicate reservations

[0211] The server confirms that the new reservation information overlaps with Mr. A's existing reservation.

[0212] 5. Check customer availability and sentiment

[0213] The server retrieves Mr. A's available time (for example, December 10th, 13:00-17:00) from the database, and then analyzes Mr. A's past response data using an emotion engine to evaluate his / her feelings regarding the reservation change.

[0214] 6. Requesting a change to your reservation

[0215] The server sends a flexible message based on the emotion engine to Mr. A via email: "Could you change your reservation to December 10th at 3:00 PM? If you do, we will offer you a 5% discount coupon."

[0216] 7. Collecting Customer Responses

[0217] The terminal provides an interface for A to respond to the email, and A selects "Yes."

[0218] 8. Updating your reservation schedule

[0219] The server changes A's reservation to December 10th at 15:00, and confirms B's reservation to December 10th at 14:00. This information is reflected in Beauty Salon A's reservation system.

[0220] 9. Sending confirmation notices

[0221] The server sends a reservation confirmation notification to Mr. A, Mr. B, and salon A.

[0222] This system reduces the effort required for operators to arrange reservations and enables them to respond in a way that takes into consideration customer feelings, thereby improving customer satisfaction.

[0223] The processing flow will be explained below.

[0224] Step 1:

[0225] The server accesses the operator's reservation system API to obtain the latest reservation information (e.g., reserved time slot, name of the person making the reservation, contact information, etc.). This information is stored in the server's database.

[0226] Step 2:

[0227] The server stores customer contact information, past booking history, and availability information in a database, ensuring that detailed information about each customer is always available.

[0228] Step 3:

[0229] The terminal provides an interface for users (customers) to enter new reservations. The user inputs the desired date and time, service details, and contact information, and then presses the send button.

[0230] Step 4:

[0231] The server receives the new reservation information sent from the terminal and temporarily stores the received information in the server's database.

[0232] Step 5:

[0233] The server checks whether there are any overlaps between the new reservation and existing reservations, and if there are any overlaps between the new reservation and existing reservations, it lists the overlaps.

[0234] Step 6:

[0235] The server checks the availability of time for each customer to which the overlapping reservations belong based on the overlapping reservation information, and sets a criterion for determining priority.

[0236] Step 7:

[0237] The server analyzes past response data of customers using an emotion engine to learn customer emotion patterns, and includes a means for estimating emotions based on real-time responses.

[0238] Step 8:

[0239] The server sends a reservation change request based on the result of the emotion engine. The request is sent via email or chat, and a special offer (e.g., a discount coupon) is offered. The emotion engine adjusts the request and the special offer based on the customer's emotions.

[0240] Step 9:

[0241] The terminal provides an interface to customers who have received a reservation change request, displaying a notification of the change request, and the customer can choose to "change" or "not change."

[0242] Step 10:

[0243] The server receives the customer's response from the terminal and updates the reservation schedule according to the response. If the customer selects "Change," the changed reservation is confirmed.

[0244] Step 11:

[0245] The server saves the updated reservation information in a database and also reflects it in the reservation systems of all parties involved, i.e., other reservation participants and businesses.

[0246] Step 12:

[0247] The server will then send a confirmation of the booking to all parties via email and chat, including the new booking date and time and any special offers that may be offered.

[0248] Specific examples

[0249] Step 1:

[0250] The server retrieves Mr. A's reservation information for December 10th at 2:00 PM from Beauty Salon A's reservation system and stores it in the database.

[0251] Step 2:

[0252] The server stores in a database Mr. A's contact information, past reservation history, and information about his available time between 13:00 and 17:00 on December 10th.

[0253] Step 3:

[0254] The terminal provides an interface for Person B to enter a new reservation on the beauty salon's website for 2:00 PM on December 10. Person B enters the desired date and time and contact information, and presses the send button.

[0255] Step 4:

[0256] The server receives Mr. B's new reservation information and stores it in the database.

[0257] Step 5:

[0258] The server verifies that the new reservation information overlaps with Mr. A's existing reservation.

[0259] Step 6:

[0260] The server checks Mr. A's time availability and determines the priority for resolving duplicates.

[0261] Step 7:

[0262] The server uses an emotion engine to analyze A's past response data, learn A's emotional patterns, and estimate emotions based on real-time responses.

[0263] Step 8:

[0264] Based on the analysis results of the emotion engine, the server sends a flexible message to Mr. A via email saying, "Could you change it to 3:00 PM on December 10th? If you do, we will give you a 5% discount coupon."

[0265] Step 9:

[0266] The terminal provides an interface for A to respond to the email, and A selects "Yes."

[0267] Step 10:

[0268] The server changes A's reservation to December 10th at 15:00, and confirms B's reservation to December 10th at 14:00. This information is reflected in Beauty Salon A's reservation system.

[0269] Step 11:

[0270] The server sends a reservation confirmation notification to Mr. A, Mr. B, and salon A.

[0271] The system, which incorporates an emotion engine, allows operators to reduce the effort required for scheduling reservations and achieve improved customer satisfaction.

[0272] Example 2

[0273] Next, a description will be given of Example 2. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as a "server" and the smart device 14 will be referred to as a "terminal."

[0274] Conventional reservation management systems have had problems with inadequate customer service when overlapping reservations occur, and in particular, a lack of consideration for customer feelings leads to a decline in customer satisfaction. Another issue is the lack of a means to efficiently adjust reservations, which places a heavy burden on operators.

[0275] The specific processing by the specific processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in the second embodiment is realized by the following means.

[0276] In this invention, the server includes means for acquiring reservation information from the business operator, means for storing information about a customer's past reservation history and available time in a database, means for providing an interface for inputting a new reservation, means for receiving new reservation information and comparing it with existing reservations to check for overlaps, means for determining priorities to resolve overlaps if there are any, means for sending a reservation change request to the customer and offering a special offer, means for receiving a response from the customer and updating the reservation schedule, means for sending a reservation confirmation notification to all parties involved, and means for estimating the customer's emotions and adjusting the change request message based on the estimation, thereby enabling more efficient reservation adjustments and improved customer satisfaction.

[0277] The "means for acquiring reservation information from businesses" refers to a means for linking with a business's reservation system and acquiring reservation information in real time.

[0278] The "means for storing information on a customer's past reservation history and available time in a database" refers to a means for recording and storing details of reservations made by a customer in the past and available reservation time slots in a database.

[0279] The "means for providing an interface for inputting a new reservation" refers to a means for providing a screen or form for a user to input new reservation information.

[0280] The "means for receiving new reservation information and checking for overlaps by comparing it with existing reservations" is a means for receiving newly entered reservation information and checking whether it overlaps with existing reservation information.

[0281] The "means for determining priorities to resolve overlapping reservations when there are overlapping reservations" refers to a means for determining which reservation should have priority when there are overlapping reservations.

[0282] The "means for sending a reservation change request to a customer and offering a special benefit" is a means for requesting a customer to change an overlapping reservation and offering an incentive for accepting the change.

[0283] The "means for receiving a response from a customer and updating the reservation schedule" is a means for receiving a response from a customer to a reservation change and updating the reservation schedule based on the content of the response.

[0284] The "means for sending a notification of confirmed reservation to all parties involved" is a means for finalizing the reservation schedule and notifying all parties involved of that information.

[0285] "Means for estimating customer sentiment and adjusting change request messages based on that sentiment" refers to means for analyzing and estimating customer sentiment, and generating and sending appropriate messages based on the results.

[0286] The reservation management system based on this invention efficiently manages reservation information for businesses and improves customer satisfaction. This system achieves optimal reservation management by utilizing communication between servers, terminals, and users, as well as an emotion engine. It is also novel in that the emotion engine estimates customer emotions and enables responses based on those estimates.

[0287] First, the system includes a means for collecting reservation information from businesses. The server connects to the business's reservation system and obtains reservation information in real time. This information includes information such as the reserved time slot, the name of the person making the reservation, and contact information. This information is stored in the server's database. Information about the customer's past reservation history and available time is also stored in the database, making it possible to manage detailed information for each customer.

[0288] Next, the terminal provides an interface for the user (customer) to input a new reservation. The user inputs the desired date and time, service details, and contact information, and presses the send button. The submitted new reservation information is received by the server and temporarily stored in a database. The server then verifies the new reservation information against existing reservation information to check for any overlaps.

[0289] If a new reservation overlaps with an existing reservation, the server checks the customer's available time and determines the priority for each customer to which the overlapping reservation belongs.The server then sends a reservation change request to the customer to resolve the overlap.At this time, the emotion engine is utilized.The emotion engine analyzes the customer's past response data, learns the customer's emotional patterns, and estimates the customer's emotions based on the real-time response content.

[0290] For example, the system predicts how a customer will feel about a change request based on their responses to past change requests. It can detect emotions in real time from the content of the response and the language used, and adjust the content of the message and special offers based on the results. Specifically, when the server sends a reservation change request, the emotion engine analyzes the customer's emotional data and generates an appropriate message based on that data. This message can increase the likelihood that the customer will accept the change request by using language that is easy for the customer to accept and by including suggestions for discount coupons or special services, for example.

[0291] The terminal displays a notification of the change request to the customer who received the reservation change request. The change request notification includes a flexible message based on the analysis results of the emotion engine, so it takes into account the customer's emotions. The customer selects an option such as "change" or "don't change," and the response is sent to the server.

[0292] The server receives the customer's response and updates the reservation schedule. If the customer agrees to the reservation change, the server confirms the change and saves it in the database, while also updating the operator's reservation system. Finally, the server sends a confirmation of the reservation to all parties involved. The notification includes information about the new reservation date and time and special offers, clarifying the status of the reservation for both the customer and the operator.

[0293] Specific examples

[0294] For example, consider a situation where Person A already has a reservation at a beauty salon for 14:00 on December 10th, and Person B also wants to make a reservation for the same date and time. Person A's response to a past request to change the reservation indicates that he or she has negative feelings about changing the reservation.

[0295] 1. Collection of reservation information

[0296] The server retrieves Mr. A's reservation information for December 10th at 2:00 p.m. from the beauty salon's reservation system and saves it in the database.

[0297] 2. Enter a new reservation

[0298] The terminal provides an interface for Person B to enter a new reservation for 14:00 on December 10. Person B enters the desired date and time and contact information, and presses the send button.

[0299] 3. Receiving new reservations

[0300] The server receives Mr. B's new reservation information and stores it in the database.

[0301] 4. Check for duplicate reservations

[0302] The server confirms that the new reservation information overlaps with Mr. A's existing reservation.

[0303] 5. Check customer availability and sentiment

[0304] The server retrieves Mr. A's available time (for example, December 10th, 13:00-17:00) from the database, and then analyzes Mr. A's past response data using an emotion engine to evaluate his / her feelings regarding the reservation change.

[0305] 6. Requesting a change to your reservation

[0306] The server sends a flexible message based on the emotion engine to Mr. A via email: "Could you change your reservation to December 10th at 3:00 PM? If you do, we will offer you a 5% discount coupon."

[0307] 7. Collecting Customer Responses

[0308] The terminal provides an interface for A to respond to the email, and A selects "Yes."

[0309] 8. Updating your reservation schedule

[0310] The server changes A's reservation to December 10th at 15:00, and confirms B's reservation to December 10th at 14:00. This information is then reflected in the beauty salon's reservation system.

[0311] 9. Sending confirmation notices

[0312] The server sends a confirmation notification to A, B, and the hair salon, including the new reservation date and time and a discount coupon.

[0313] This system reduces the effort required for operators to arrange reservations and enables them to respond in a way that takes into consideration customer feelings, thereby improving customer satisfaction.

[0314] Example prompts to input to the generative AI model

[0315] "If the appointment at the beauty salon on December 10th at 2:00 PM has already been booked by another customer, how should we suggest to customer B who wishes to make a new appointment? Also, please suggest the optimal message to send when requesting a change of appointment, taking into account customer A's feelings."

[0316] The flow of the identification process in the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0317] Step 1:

[0318] Collection of reservation information

[0319] The server works with the business's reservation system to obtain reservation information in real time. At this time, the server sends an API request to the business's reservation system to obtain information such as the reserved time slot, the name of the person making the reservation, and contact information. The obtained information is saved in the server's database. This data processing allows the server to maintain the latest reservation information.

[0320] Input: Reservation information obtained via API request from the business's reservation system

[0321] Output: Latest reservation information stored in the database

[0322] Specific operation: The server periodically sends an API request to update reservation information.

[0323] Step 2:

[0324] Enter a new reservation

[0325] The terminal provides an interface for users to enter new reservations. The user enters the desired date and time, service details, and contact information into the terminal's input form and presses the send button. The entered information is temporarily saved on the terminal.

[0326] Input: Desired date and time, service details, and contact information entered by the user

[0327] Output: New reservation information temporarily saved on the device

[0328] Specific behavior: The device provides an input form and a calendar widget and accepts user input.

[0329] Step 3:

[0330] Receive new bookings

[0331] The server receives the new reservation information sent from the terminal and stores the new reservation information (desired date and time, service details, contact information) in a database.

[0332] Input: New reservation information sent from the terminal

[0333] Output: New reservation information temporarily saved in the database

[0334] Specific operation: The server receives an HTTP POST request from the terminal and saves the reservation information in a database.

[0335] Step 4:

[0336] Check for duplicate reservations

[0337] The server checks the new reservation information against existing reservation information in the database to see if there are any overlaps. It also compares the desired date and time of the new reservation information with the date and time of the existing reservation information and sets a flag if there are any overlaps.

[0338] Input: Existing reservations in the database and new reservations

[0339] Output: Flag for duplicates

[0340] What happens: The server runs a database query to see if the new reservation information overlaps with an existing reservation.

[0341] Step 5:

[0342] Checking customer availability and sentiment

[0343] The server retrieves the customer's time leeway for overlapping reservations from the database, and uses an emotion engine to analyze the customer's past response data and evaluate their emotion regarding the reservation change.

[0344] Input: Customer time availability in the database, past response data of the emotion engine

[0345] Output: Customer's time availability and emotional assessment

[0346] Specific operation: The server executes a database query and utilizes the emotion engine API to evaluate the customer's emotion.

[0347] Step 6:

[0348] Requesting a change of reservation

[0349] The server generates an appropriate message for the customer based on the analysis results of the emotion engine. For example, it creates a flexible message such as "Could you change your reservation to December 10th at 3:00 PM? If you do, we will offer you a 5% discount coupon." and sends it by email.

[0350] Input: Sentiment engine analysis results, customer time availability

[0351] Output: Generated reservation change request message, sent email

[0352] Specific operation: The server uses the email sending API to send emotion-based messages to customers.

[0353] Step 7:

[0354] Collecting customer responses

[0355] The terminal provides an interface for the customer to respond to the email. The options "Change" and "Don't change" are displayed, and if the customer selects "Change," the response is sent to the server.

[0356] Input: Customer's choice (change, don't change)

[0357] Output: Customer response sent to server

[0358] Specific operation: The device collects customer responses via links in emails or dedicated apps.

[0359] Step 8:

[0360] Update your reservation schedule

[0361] The server receives the customer's response and updates the reservation schedule. If the customer agrees to the reservation change, the server saves the change information in the database and reflects it in the operator's reservation system.

[0362] Input: Customer response

[0363] Output: Updated appointment schedule, database update

[0364] What happens: The server updates the database and sends the changes to the operator's reservation system via API.

[0365] Step 9:

[0366] Sending confirmation notices

[0367] The server then sends a confirmation of the reservation to all parties, including the new reservation date and time and a discount coupon.

[0368] Input: Updated appointment schedule

[0369] Output: Booking confirmation sent to all parties

[0370] Specific operation: The server uses the email sending API to send a confirmation notice to the customer and the business.

[0371] This specific process allows the server, terminal, and user to work together to achieve efficient reservation management and improved customer satisfaction.

[0372] (Application example 2)

[0373] Next, a description will be given of Application Example 2. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as a "server" and the smart device 14 will be referred to as a "terminal."

[0374] With conventional reservation management systems, responses to customer reservation overlaps and change requests were often handled manually, creating challenges in improving customer satisfaction and improving business efficiency. Furthermore, when changing a reservation, a uniform message was sent without considering the customer's feelings, making it difficult for customers to respond to change requests. This increased the business's workload and led to a decline in customer satisfaction.

[0375] The specific processing by the specific processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in the application example 2 is realized by the following means.

[0376] In this invention, the server includes means for acquiring reservation information from the business, means for storing information on the customer's past reservation history and available time in a database, means for providing an interface for inputting new reservations, means for receiving new reservation information and comparing it with existing reservations to check for overlaps, means for determining priorities to resolve overlaps if there are any overlapping reservations, means for sending a reservation change request to the customer and offering benefits, means for analyzing customer emotion data and generating flexible messages based on the data, means for receiving responses from the customer and updating the reservation schedule, and means for sending notification of confirmed reservations to all parties involved. This enables flexible responses that take customer emotions into consideration, improving customer satisfaction and improving the business operator's work efficiency.

[0377] "Business reservation information" refers to customer reservation data managed by the business providing the service, and includes information such as the reservation date and time, the name of the person making the reservation, and contact information.

[0378] "Past reservation history" refers to a series of data related to reservations made by a customer, including information such as reservation date and time, service details, and changes.

[0379] "Time slack" refers to data that indicates how much flexibility a customer has in their schedule for a particular date and time, including flexible time slots.

[0380] "Interface" refers to the screens and input devices that users use to interact with the system and to enter, confirm, and change reservations.

[0381] "New reservation information" refers to data relating to a new reservation entered by a customer, including information such as the desired date and time, service details, and contact information.

[0382] "Duplicate check" refers to the process of checking whether newly entered reservation information overlaps with existing reservation information.

[0383] "Priority" refers to the criteria for determining the priority of reservations, which is set based on the customer's time availability and other factors.

[0384] "Emotional data" refers to data that indicates the emotional state of a customer, and is derived from the customer's past responses and real-time responses.

[0385] "Flexible messages" are messages that are tailored to the customer's emotional state and include expressions and offers that are easy for the customer to accept.

[0386] "Reservation Change Request" refers to the process of asking a customer to change an existing reservation.

[0387] "Benefits" are incentives offered to customers when they agree to change their reservations, such as discount coupons or additional services.

[0388] "Reservation schedule update" refers to the process of updating reservation information based on customer responses.

[0389] "Reservation Confirmation Notification" means a communication to all parties informing them that the status of a reservation has been finalized and including information about the new reservation date and time and any special offers.

[0390] The system for implementing this invention improves the efficiency of reservation management for businesses and realizes flexible responses that take into account customer feelings. This system uses the following main hardware and software:

[0391] Hardware:

[0392] Server: Used to collect, store, analyze, and notify reservation information.

[0393] Devices (smartphones, head-mounted displays, etc.): Provide the user interface for customers to enter new reservations and receive change request notifications.

[0394] software:

[0395] Natural Language Processing (NLP) libraries: Python's NLTK and spaCy are used to analyze customer sentiment data.

[0396] Database: We use a database system such as MySQL to manage reservation information and customer past reservation history.

[0397] Emotion Recognition System: Uses Python emotion analysis libraries (e.g., TextBlob and Transformers) to estimate emotions from real-time and past customer responses.

[0398] Specifically, the server collects reservation information from operators in real time and stores it in a database. When a customer enters and submits a new reservation via a terminal, the server receives the new reservation information and compares it with existing reservations. If there are overlapping reservations, the server analyzes the customer's time availability and emotional data to determine priority.

[0399] The server then uses the emotion engine to generate an appropriate message when a customer requests a change of reservation. For example, if the customer has previously been negative about changing a reservation, a flexible message offering a discount coupon or other special offer can be generated. The message is then sent to the customer via email or chat.

[0400] When the customer responds to the message, the response information is sent to the server, which updates the reservation schedule. Finally, the server sends a confirmation of the reservation to all parties, indicating the updated reservation information and special offers.

[0401] Examples:

[0402] For example, consider the case where user A has an appointment at a hair salon for 14:00 on December 10th, and user B also wants to make an appointment at the same time. First, the server collects the appointment information and saves it in a database. When user B enters the appointment, that information is received and duplicates are confirmed. Next, the emotion engine analyzes user A's past responses and determines that user A is opposed to changing the appointment. The server generates a flexible message saying, "If you change your appointment to 15:00 on December 10th, we will offer you a 5% discount coupon," and sends it to user A. If user A responds "Yes," the server changes user A's appointment to 15:00 and confirms user B's appointment at 14:00. Finally, a notification of the confirmed appointment is sent to all parties involved.

[0403] Example prompt sentence:

[0404] "Determine how the user feels about the change request and generate the following messages: If the user has a positive sentiment, create a discount message offering 10% off their next service; if the user has a negative sentiment, create a message offering a 5% off coupon."

[0405] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 2 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0406] Step 1:

[0407] The server collects reservation information in real time from the business's reservation system, specifically, data such as the reservation date and time, the name of the person making the reservation, and contact information, and stores it in a database.

[0408] Input: Reservation information from the business's reservation system

[0409] Output: Reservation information stored in the database

[0410] Step 2:

[0411] The terminal provides an interface for the user to input a new reservation. The user inputs the desired date and time, service details, and contact information, and then presses the send button.

[0412] Input: New reservation information entered by the user

[0413] Output: New reservation information sent from the terminal

[0414] Step 3:

[0415] The server receives new reservation information sent from the terminal, temporarily stores it in a database, and then compares it with existing reservation information to check for duplicates.

[0416] Input: New reservation information, existing reservation information

[0417] Output: Duplicate check result

[0418] Step 4:

[0419] When the server finds overlapping reservations, it determines the priority for resolving the overlapping reservations. It sets a priority for each customer to which the overlapping reservations belong based on the customer's time availability and existing reservation history.

[0420] Input: Customer's time availability, past booking history

[0421] Output: Priority decision result

[0422] Step 5:

[0423] The server uses an emotion engine to analyze customer emotion data and generate appropriate messages when a reservation change request is made. Specifically, it creates flexible messages including discount coupons and special offers based on past response data and real-time responses.

[0424] Input: Customer sentiment data, past response data

[0425] Output: Flexible message

[0426] Step 6:

[0427] The server sends flexible messages via email or chat to customers with overlapping reservations.

[0428] Input: Flexible message

[0429] Output: Message sent

[0430] Step 7:

[0431] The terminal provides an interface for the customer to respond to the message, selecting "change" or "don't change" and sending the response to the server.

[0432] Input: Customer response

[0433] Output: Response sent to the server

[0434] Step 8:

[0435] The server receives the response from the customer and updates the reservation schedule. If the customer agrees to the reservation change, the server saves the new reservation information in the database and updates the existing reservation information.

[0436] Input: Customer response, current reservation information

[0437] Output: Updated reservation information

[0438] Step 9:

[0439] The server sends a confirmation of the reservation to all parties, including information about the new reservation date and time and special offers.

[0440] Input: Updated reservation information

[0441] Output: Confirmation sent

[0442] The specific processing unit 290 transmits the result of the specific processing to the smart device 14. In the smart device 14, the control unit 46A causes the output device 40 to output the result of the specific processing. The microphone 38B acquires audio indicating a user input regarding the result of the specific processing. The control unit 46A transmits audio data indicating the user input acquired by the microphone 38B to the data processing device 12. In the data processing device 12, the specific processing unit 290 acquires the audio data.

[0443] The data generation model 58 is a so-called generative AI (Artificial Intelligence). An example of the data generation model 58 is ChatGPT (Internet Search<URL: https: / / openai.com / blog / chatgpt> ), Gemini (Internet search <url: https: gemini.google.com ?hl="ja">) and other generation AIs. The data generation model 58 is obtained by performing deep learning on a neural network. A prompt including an instruction is input to the data generation model 58, and inference data such as voice data indicating voice, text data indicating text, and image data indicating an image is also input. The data generation model 58 performs inference on the input inference data in accordance with the instruction indicated by the prompt, and outputs the inference result in a data format such as voice data and text data. Here, inference refers to, for example, analysis, classification, prediction, and / or summarization.

[0444] In the above embodiment, an example in which the specific process is performed by the data processing device 12 has been given, but the technology of the present disclosure is not limited to this, and the specific process may be performed by the smart device 14.

[0445] [Second embodiment]

[0446] FIG. 3 shows an example of the configuration of a data processing system 210 according to the second embodiment.

[0447] 3, the data processing system 210 includes the data processing device 12 and smart glasses 214. An example of the data processing device 12 is a server.

[0448] The data processing device 12 includes a computer 22, a database 24, and a communication I / F 26. The computer 22 is an example of a "computer" according to the technology of the present disclosure. The computer 22 includes a processor 28, a RAM 30, and a storage 32. The processor 28, the RAM 30, and the storage 32 are connected to a bus 34. The database 24 and the communication I / F 26 are also connected to the bus 34. The communication I / F 26 is connected to a network 54. Examples of the network 54 include a WAN (Wide Area Network) and / or a LAN (Local Area Network).

[0449] The smart glasses 214 include a computer 36, a microphone 238, a speaker 240, a camera 42, and a communication I / F 44. The computer 36 includes a processor 46, a RAM 48, and a storage 50. The processor 46, the RAM 48, and the storage 50 are connected to a bus 52. The microphone 238, the speaker 240, and the camera 42 are also connected to the bus 52.

[0450] The microphone 238 receives instructions and the like from the user 20 by receiving voice uttered by the user 20. The microphone 238 captures the voice uttered by the user 20, converts the captured voice into audio data, and outputs it to the processor 46. The speaker 240 outputs audio in accordance with instructions from the processor 46.

[0451] Camera 42 is a small digital camera equipped with an optical system including a lens, aperture, and shutter, and an imaging element such as a CMOS (Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor) image sensor or a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) image sensor, and captures images of the surroundings of user 20 (for example, an imaging range defined by an angle of view equivalent to the field of vision of a typical healthy person).

[0452] The communication I / F 44 is connected to a network 54. The communication I / Fs 44 and 26 are responsible for the exchange of various information between the processor 46 and the processor 28 via the network 54. The exchange of various information between the processor 46 and the processor 28 using the communication I / Fs 44 and 26 is carried out in a secure state.

[0453] Fig. 4 shows an example of the main functions of the data processing device 12 and the smart glasses 214. As shown in Fig. 4, in the data processing device 12, a specific process is performed by the processor 28. A specific process program 56 is stored in the storage 32.

[0454] The specific processing program 56 is an example of a "program" according to the technology of the present disclosure. The processor 28 reads the specific processing program 56 from the storage 32 and executes the read specific processing program 56 on the RAM 30. The specific processing is realized by the processor 28 operating as a specific processing unit 290 in accordance with the specific processing program 56 executed on the RAM 30.

[0455] The storage 32 stores a data generation model 58 and an emotion identification model 59. The data generation model 58 and the emotion identification model 59 are used by the identification processing unit 290.

[0456] In the smart glasses 214, the reception output process is performed by the processor 46. A reception output program 60 is stored in the storage 50. The processor 46 reads the reception output program 60 from the storage 50 and executes the read reception output program 60 on the RAM 48. The reception output process is realized by the processor 46 operating as the control unit 46A in accordance with the reception output program 60 executed on the RAM 48.

[0457] Next, a description will be given of the identification process performed by the identification processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as the "server" and the smart glasses 214 will be referred to as the "terminal."

[0458] The AI ​​reservation concierge system based on this invention performs the following specific processes to streamline reservation coordination work for businesses: This system realizes optimal reservation management through communication between the server, terminals, and users.

[0459] First, in this system, the server is equipped with a means for collecting reservation information from businesses. This server connects with the business's reservation system and obtains reservation information in real time. This allows the server to accurately grasp all reservation information held by the business (reserved time slots, names of people who made reservations, contact information, etc.).

[0460] Next, the server has a database for managing customer information. Information about customer contact details, past reservation history, and availability is stored in this database. This allows detailed information for each customer to be kept at all times, helping to efficiently manage reservations.

[0461] An interface for entering new reservations is provided on the terminal. Users (customers) can make new reservations through the website or app of a beauty salon or esthetic salon. The user enters the desired date and time, service details, and contact information, and presses the send button.

[0462] The new reservation information is received by the server. The server temporarily stores the newly received reservation information in a database and checks whether it overlaps with existing reservation information. If there is an overlap, it detects the information of customers who have already made reservations and checks the customer's availability.

[0463] If a duplicate is detected, the server executes a priority determination process. It prioritizes customers who have time and requests them to reschedule. This request is sent from the server via email or chat. In addition, the server offers incentives (e.g., discount coupons) to encourage the customer to reschedule.

[0464] The customer receives a reservation change request through their terminal. The interface displays options such as "Change" or "Don't change," and the customer confirms the change by responding. If the customer agrees to the reservation change, the information is received by the server, and the reservation schedule is updated.

[0465] The server saves the updated reservation information in its database and automatically updates the reservation systems of all participating businesses. Finally, the server sends a confirmation of the reservation to all parties, including information about the new reservation date and time and special offers.

[0466] Specific examples

[0467] For example:

[0468] scenario

[0469] This section explains the processing flow when a reservation for Person A already exists at Beauty Salon A for 14:00 on December 10th, but Person B also wishes to make a reservation for the same time on the same day.

[0470] 1. Collection of reservation information

[0471] The server retrieves Mr. A's reservation information for December 10th at 2:00 p.m. from Beauty Salon A's reservation system and saves it in the database.

[0472] 2. Enter a new reservation

[0473] The terminal, for example the website of beauty salon A, provides an interface for person B to enter a new appointment for December 10th at 14:00.

[0474] 3. Receiving new reservations

[0475] The server receives Mr. B's new reservation information and temporarily stores it in the database.

[0476] 4. Check for duplicate reservations

[0477] The server confirms that the new reservation information overlaps with Mr. A's existing reservation.

[0478] 5. Check the customer's time availability

[0479] The server retrieves Mr. A's available time (for example, December 10th, 13:00-17:00) from the database.

[0480] 6. Requesting a change to your reservation

[0481] The server sends an email to Mr. A asking, "Could you please change your reservation to December 10th at 3:00 PM?" and presents a 5% discount coupon.

[0482] 7. Collecting Customer Responses

[0483] The device, for example, Person A's smartphone, provides an interface for Person A to respond to the email. Person A selects "Yes" to change the reservation.

[0484] 8. Updating your reservation schedule

[0485] The server changes A's reservation to December 10th at 15:00, and confirms B's reservation to December 10th at 14:00. This information is reflected in Beauty Salon A's reservation system.

[0486] 9. Sending confirmation notices

[0487] The server sends a reservation confirmation notification to Mr. A, Mr. B, and salon A.

[0488] This system will enable businesses to significantly reduce the effort required to arrange reservations, improving customer satisfaction and preventing lost opportunities.

[0489] The processing flow will be explained below.

[0490] Step 1:

[0491] The server accesses the operator's reservation system API and retrieves the latest reservation information (reserved time slot, name of the person making the reservation, contact information, etc.). This information is stored in the server's database.

[0492] Step 2:

[0493] The server stores customer contact information, past booking history, and availability information in a database, ensuring that detailed information about each customer is always available.

[0494] Step 3:

[0495] The terminal provides an interface for users (customers) to enter new reservations. The user inputs the desired date and time, service details, and contact information, and then presses the send button.

[0496] Step 4:

[0497] The server receives the new reservation information sent from the terminal and temporarily stores the received information in the server's database.

[0498] Step 5:

[0499] The server checks whether there are any overlaps between the new reservation and existing reservations, and if there are any overlaps between the new reservation and existing reservations, it lists the overlaps.

[0500] Step 6:

[0501] The server checks the availability of time for each customer to which the overlapping reservations belong based on the overlapping reservation information, and sets a criterion for determining priority.

[0502] Step 7:

[0503] The server sends a request to change the reservation to customers who have time. The request is sent via email or chat, and a special offer (e.g., a discount coupon) is offered.

[0504] Step 8:

[0505] The terminal provides an interface to customers who have received a reservation change request, displaying the change request, and the customer can choose to "change" or "not change."

[0506] Step 9:

[0507] The server receives the customer's response from the terminal and updates the reservation schedule according to the response. If the customer selects "Change," the changed reservation is confirmed.

[0508] Step 10:

[0509] The server saves the updated reservation information in a database and also reflects it in the reservation systems of all parties involved, i.e., other reservation participants and businesses.

[0510] Step 11:

[0511] The server will then send a confirmation of the booking to all parties via email and chat, including the new booking date and time and any special offers that may be offered.

[0512] Through the above processing steps, the AI ​​reservation concierge system efficiently handles reservation adjustment tasks for businesses, preventing lost opportunities and reduced customer satisfaction.

[0513] Example 1

[0514] Next, a description will be given of Example 1. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as a "server" and the smart glasses 214 will be referred to as a "terminal."

[0515] Currently, many businesses use reservation systems, but they spend a lot of time and effort dealing with duplicate reservations. In order to improve customer satisfaction, they need to respond appropriately, such as by requesting changes to reservations or offering special offers, but these tasks place a burden on businesses. For this reason, there is a demand for a system that can efficiently manage reservations and increase customer satisfaction.

[0516] The specific processing by the specific processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in the first embodiment is realized by the following means.

[0517] In this invention, the server includes a means for acquiring reservation data from the business, a means for storing data on customer history and time availability, and a means for providing a user interface for inputting new reservations, thereby enabling efficient reservation management and quick and appropriate response even in the case of overlapping reservations.

[0518] The "means of acquiring reservation data from businesses" refers to a method for importing reservation information held by businesses into a server using a communication means such as an API or database.

[0519] The "means for storing data on customer history and availability" refers to a method for recording information on the history of reservations made by customers in the past and the time slots available for reservations in a database.

[0520] The "means for providing a user interface for entering a new reservation" is a web page or application interface that allows a customer to enter a new reservation online.

[0521] "Means for receiving new reservation data and comparing it with existing reservations to check for overlaps" refers to a method in which the server receives reservation information sent by the user and compares it with existing reservation information to check for overlaps.

[0522] The "means for determining priorities to resolve overlapping reservations when there are overlapping reservations" is a method for determining, based on evaluation criteria, which reservation to prioritize when an existing reservation and a new reservation overlap.

[0523] "Means of sending reservation change requests to customers and offering rewards" refers to the use of email or messaging apps to request existing customers to change their reservations when a duplicate reservation occurs and to offer rewards such as special offers or discounts.

[0524] The "means for receiving a response from a customer and updating the reservation schedule" is a method for receiving a customer's response to a reservation change request and adjusting the reservation schedule based on the response.

[0525] The "means for sending a reservation confirmation notice to all parties involved" is a method for notifying all parties involved (for example, customers and businesses) of the information after a reservation is confirmed.

[0526] The AI ​​reservation concierge system based on this invention is designed to streamline reservation coordination work for businesses. This system realizes optimal reservation management through communication between the server, terminals, and users.

[0527] First, the server has a means of acquiring reservation data from businesses. This is done, for example, by linking with the business's reservation system via API to acquire information such as reserved time slots, names of people making reservations, and contact details in real time, and then storing that information in the server's database. For example, reservation information can be acquired from a beauty salon's API and stored in the database.

[0528] Next, the terminal provides a user interface for entering new reservations. This interface is provided as a website or application for the beauty salon or esthetic salon, and allows the user to enter the desired date and time, service details, and contact information, and then submit. This allows the user to easily make a new reservation.

[0529] The new reservation information is received by the server, which first temporarily stores the new reservation information in a database and then compares it with existing reservation information to check for duplicates. This allows for accurate management of reservation schedules.

[0530] Furthermore, the server is equipped with a means for determining priorities to resolve overlapping reservations when there are overlapping reservations. This means sets evaluation criteria based on the customer's past reservation history and available time, and decides which reservation to prioritize. For example, it can prioritize customers who have limited time due to work commitments.

[0531] If a reservation change is necessary, the server sends a request to the customer to change the reservation. At this time, the server uses email or messaging apps to offer rewards such as special offers or discount coupons to make the customer more likely to agree to the change. For example, an email might be sent saying, "Could you change your reservation to December 10th at 3:00 PM? We'll offer you a 5% discount coupon for this change."

[0532] The terminal provides a user interface for receiving responses from customers. The terminal collects customer responses from displayed options such as "Change" or "Don't change" and sends the information to the server. The server updates the reservation schedule based on the received information. This keeps the reservation information up to date in real time.

[0533] Finally, the server saves the updated reservation schedule to the database and sends confirmation notifications to all parties, including information about the new reservation date and time and special offers, so that all parties are kept up to date.

[0534] Specific examples

[0535] For example, the following is the processing flow when a reservation for person A already exists at beauty salon A for 14:00 on December 10th, but person B also wants to make a reservation for the same time on the same day.

[0536] First, the server retrieves Person A's reservation information for December 10th at 14:00 from Beauty Salon A's reservation system and saves it in the database. Next, if Person B wishes to make a new reservation for December 10th at 14:00, the terminal provides an interface for this. The server receives Person B's new reservation information and temporarily saves it in the database. The server then checks whether the reservation information is duplicated and retrieves Person A's available time (for example, December 10th at 13:00-17:00) from the database.

[0537] Next, the server sends Person A an email asking, "Could you change your reservation to December 10th at 3:00 PM?" and presents a 5% discount coupon. Person A receives the reservation change request via a device such as a smartphone and responds. If Person A selects "Yes" and agrees to the reservation change, the information is received by the server. The server changes Person A's reservation to December 10th at 3:00 PM, and confirms Person B's reservation to December 10th at 2:00 PM, and saves this information in the database.

[0538] Finally, the server sends a notification of the confirmed reservation to Mr. A, Mr. B, and salon A. This system allows businesses to significantly reduce the effort required for adjusting reservations, improving customer satisfaction and preventing lost opportunities.

[0539] The flow of the identification process in the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0540] Step 1:

[0541] The server obtains the operator's reservation data. Specifically, it obtains reservation information (reserved time slot, name of the person making the reservation, contact information, etc.) from the operator's reservation system via API and stores that data in a database. The input is the reservation information obtained from the API, and the output is the reservation information stored in the database. This allows you to always have the operator's latest reservation information.

[0542] Step 2:

[0543] A user uses a terminal to enter a new reservation. Specifically, they access the website or application of a beauty salon or esthetic salon, enter the desired date and time, service details, and contact information, and then press the send button. The input is the reservation information entered by the user, and the output is sending that data to the server. This allows the user to easily make a new reservation.

[0544] Step 3:

[0545] The server receives new reservation information. It receives new reservation information sent by the user from the terminal and temporarily stores it in the database. The input is the new reservation information sent from the terminal, and the output is the new reservation information temporarily stored in the database. This allows the new reservation information to be stored on the server and made available for subsequent processing.

[0546] Step 4:

[0547] The server collates the reservation data and checks for duplicates. Specifically, it compares new reservation information with existing reservation information to see if there are any duplicates. The input is the new reservation information and the existing reservation information, and the output is the result of whether there are any duplicates. This makes it possible to check whether there are any duplicate reservations.

[0548] Step 5:

[0549] When an overlap is detected, the server checks the reservation holder's available time. Specifically, for the reservation where an overlap is found, the server retrieves the available time of the existing reservation holder from the database. The input is the information of the existing reservation holder, and the output is data regarding the available time. This makes it possible to check whether the existing reservation holder can change the reservation to another time.

[0550] Step 6:

[0551] The server then sends a request to change the reservation to the existing customer via email or messaging app, offering a reward (e.g., a discount coupon). The input is the existing customer's contact information and the proposed change date and time, and the output is the sent request to change the reservation and the offered reward. This allows the existing customer to respond appropriately.

[0552] Step 7:

[0553] The terminal collects the customer's response. Existing reservation holders respond to the reservation change request through the terminal. For example, a smartphone notification displays the options of "change" or "don't change." The input is the customer's response to the reservation change request, and the output is that response data. This makes it possible to adjust the reservation schedule to reflect the customer's wishes.

[0554] Step 8:

[0555] The server updates the reservation schedule. Based on the customer's response, it determines a new reservation schedule and updates the database. The input is the customer's response and existing reservation information, and the output is the updated reservation schedule. This keeps the reservation information up to date in real time.

[0556] Step 9:

[0557] The server sends a reservation confirmation notification to all parties involved. Based on the updated reservation schedule, notifications are sent to the parties involved (e.g., customers and businesses) via email or messaging app. The input is the updated reservation information and contact information of the parties involved, and the output is the sent reservation confirmation notification. This allows all parties involved to keep track of the latest reservation information.

[0558] (Application example 1)

[0559] Next, a description will be given of Application Example 1. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as a "server" and the smart glasses 214 will be referred to as a "terminal."

[0560] In conventional reservation management systems, adjustments when overlapping reservations occur are often done manually, which not only takes time and effort but also leads to lower customer satisfaction. Furthermore, if a reservation change request is not handled skillfully, it can cause customer dissatisfaction. Another issue is that there are few ways for customers to easily check their reservation status and respond smoothly.

[0561] The specific processing by the specific processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in the application example 1 is realized by the following means.

[0562] In this invention, the server includes a means for acquiring reservation information from the business, a means for storing information on the customer's past reservation history and available time in a database, and a means for providing an interface for inputting new reservations. This allows the business to efficiently manage reservation information, and also enables customers to smoothly respond by easily checking the reservation status.

[0563] "Business reservation information" refers to information obtained by a business from a customer, including the date and time of the reservation, the name of the person making the reservation, contact information, and the details of the reservation.

[0564] "Past reservation history of a customer" refers to historical information such as the date and time of reservations made by the customer in the past, and the details of the services.

[0565] "Information about availability of time" is information about the time slots available to the customer in consideration of other reservations and personal plans.

[0566] A "database" is a system or software for efficiently storing, retrieving, and managing information.

[0567] An "interface" is a software or hardware component that provides a means for a user to access a system and input or obtain information.

[0568] "Receiving reservation information" is the process by which the reservation system receives and stores information about a new or existing reservation on the server.

[0569] A "means for checking for overlaps" is an algorithm or process for determining whether new reservations overlap in time with existing reservations.

[0570] The "means for determining priority" is an algorithm or process that sets priorities taking into account factors such as the customer's available time in order to eliminate overlapping reservations.

[0571] The "means for sending a reservation change request" is a process for sending a notification to a customer requesting a change to their reservation in order to resolve the overlapping reservation.

[0572] "Offering means" is the process of offering discounts, coupons, and other offers to customers to encourage them to change their reservations.

[0573] The "means for receiving a response from a customer" is a process for receiving and processing a customer's response to a reservation change request.

[0574] The "means for updating reservation schedules" is a process for updating the start time and date of reservations based on the received customer response.

[0575] The "means for sending a notification of confirmed reservation" is a notification that sends new reservation information to all parties for confirmation.

[0576] An "automated notification system" is a system that quickly and accurately notifies relevant parties of new or changed reservation information.

[0577] A "natural language processing engine" is a software technology that understands human language and processes it appropriately in the context of voice and text.

[0578] The AI ​​reservation concierge system based on this invention is a system that realizes optimal reservation management through communication between servers, terminals, and users in order to streamline reservation adjustment work for businesses. This system uses the following means.

[0579] The server is equipped with an API linkage means for linking with the business operator's reservation system and obtaining reservation information in real time. This means that all reservation information held by the business operator (such as reserved time slots, names of people who made reservations, contact information, etc.) can be accurately grasped.

[0580] The server then has a database to manage customer information, including contact details, past booking history, and availability. It is recommended to use commercial database software such as MongoDB for this database.

[0581] The interface for entering new reservations is provided via devices (smartphones, tablets, PCs, etc.). Customers can use a reservation website or app to enter the desired date and time, service details, and contact information, and then submit the reservation information. Input via voice recognition is also possible, and this process uses OpenAI GPT-4 as a natural language processing engine.

[0582] The new reservation information is received by the server. The server temporarily stores the newly received reservation information in a database and checks for overlaps with existing reservation information. If there are overlaps, the server determines the priority based on the customer's time availability and decides whether to change the reservation.

[0583] If a conflict is detected, the server sends a rescheduling request to customers who have time to spare. This request is sent using Firebase Cloud Messaging (FCM). The notification includes a special offer, such as a 5% discount coupon, to encourage customers to reschedule.

[0584] Customers receive a reservation change request via their smartphone or other device and respond by choosing "change" or "don't change." If the response is "change," the server updates the reservation schedule and notifies all parties of the updated information. This notification system uses an automated notification system.

[0585] As a concrete example, let's say you want to make an appointment at Hair Salon A on December 10th at 2:00 PM. If there is already a reservation for that time slot, the customer will be prompted with the following prompt: "Would you like to change your appointment to December 10th at 3:00 PM? Please answer yes or no." If the customer answers "yes," the appointment will be rescheduled and the updated information will be notified to all parties involved.

[0586] In this way, the system of the present invention significantly reduces the time and effort required for business operators to adjust reservations, making it possible to improve customer satisfaction and prevent opportunity loss.

[0587] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0588] Step 1:

[0589] The server connects to the operator's reservation system via API and obtains reservation information in real time. In this process, information such as the reserved time slot, the name of the person making the reservation, and contact information is obtained and saved in a database. The input is the reservation information from the operator's reservation system, and the output is the reservation information saved in the server's database.

[0590] Step 2:

[0591] The server stores the customer's name, contact details, past booking history, and availability information in a database. This process efficiently manages the information obtained from the customer. The input is the customer's information, and the output is the customer data stored in the database.

[0592] Step 3:

[0593] The terminal provides an interface for entering new reservations. Customers use this interface to enter the desired date and time, service details, and contact information, and then submit the reservation. The input is the reservation information entered by the customer, and the output is the submitted reservation information. Specifically, the user fills out a form on a website or app and presses the submit button.

[0594] Step 4:

[0595] The server receives the new reservation information and temporarily stores it in a database. It then compares it with existing reservation information to check for duplicates. The input is the new reservation information, and the output is the result of checking whether there are any duplicates. In concrete terms, the moment the server receives new reservation information, it automatically starts comparing it with the database.

[0596] Step 5:

[0597] If a duplicate is detected, the server determines the priority based on the customer's time availability. In this process, the server obtains time availability information from the database and determines the priority using an algorithm. The input is the customer's time availability information, and the output is the result of the priority determination. Specifically, the server queries the customer's time availability information and calculates the priority.

[0598] Step 6:

[0599] After determining the priority, the server requests customers who have time to reschedule. This request also includes a special offer, such as a 5% discount coupon. Firebase Cloud Messaging (FCM) is used for notifications. The input is the priority determination result, and the output is the sent notification. Specifically, the server automatically generates a reservation change notification and sends it via FCM.

[0600] Step 7:

[0601] The customer receives a reservation change request through their device and responds by selecting "Change" or "Don't change." The input is the notification sent from the server, and the output is the customer's response. Specifically, the notification is displayed on the device, and the customer taps an option to respond.

[0602] Step 8:

[0603] The server receives the customer's response and updates the reservation schedule. In this process, the reservation date, time, and details are updated and reflected in the reservation systems of all related businesses. The input is the customer's response, and the output is the updated reservation information. Specifically, the server updates the database and reflects the changes in the business's systems via API.

[0604] Step 9:

[0605] The server notifies all parties of the updated reservation information. This notification includes information about the new reservation date and time and any special offers. The input is the updated reservation information, and the output is the notification sent to the parties. Specifically, the server generates a confirmation notification and automatically sends it to the parties.

[0606] Through these steps, the AI ​​reservation concierge system will be operated efficiently, improving convenience for businesses and customers.

[0607] Furthermore, an emotion engine that estimates the user's emotion may be further combined. That is, the identification processing unit 290 may estimate the user's emotion using the emotion identification model 59, and perform identification processing using the user's emotion.

[0608] The AI ​​reservation concierge system based on this invention incorporates an emotion engine that recognizes user emotions and responds appropriately based on them to streamline reservation adjustment work for businesses. This system achieves optimal reservation management and improved customer satisfaction through communication between the server, terminals, and users, as well as the emotion engine.

[0609] First, the system provides a means for collecting reservation information from businesses. The server connects to the business's reservation system and obtains reservation information in real time. This information includes the reserved time slot, the name of the person making the reservation, contact information, and other information, and is stored in the server's database. Information about customers' past reservation history and available time is also stored in the database, making it possible to manage detailed information for each customer.

[0610] The terminal provides an interface for users (customers) to input new reservations. The user inputs the desired date and time, service details, and contact information, and then presses the send button. The submitted new reservation information is received by the server and temporarily stored in a database. The server then verifies the new reservation information against existing reservation information to check for duplicates.

[0611] If a new reservation overlaps with an existing reservation, the server checks the customer's availability and determines the priority of each customer to which the overlapping reservation belongs.The server then sends a reservation change request to customers who have time to spare.The emotion engine is utilized in this process.

[0612] The emotion engine analyzes past customer response data, learns customer emotional patterns, and infers emotions based on real-time customer responses. For example, it predicts how a customer will feel about a change request based on their responses to past change requests. It also detects emotions from the content and wording of real-time responses, and adjusts message content and bonus offerings based on the results.

[0613] Specifically, when the server sends a reservation change request, the emotion engine analyzes the customer's emotion data and generates an appropriate message based on that data. This message can increase the likelihood that the customer will accept the change request by including expressions that are easy for the customer to accept, such as discount coupons or special service offers.

[0614] The terminal displays a notification of the change request to the customer who received the reservation change request. The change request notification includes a flexible message based on the analysis results of the emotion engine, so it takes into account the customer's emotions. The customer selects an option such as "change" or "don't change," and the response is sent to the server.

[0615] The server receives the customer's response and updates the reservation schedule. If the customer agrees to the reservation change, the server confirms the change, saves it in the database, and reflects it in the operator's reservation system.

[0616] Finally, the server sends a confirmation of the reservation to all parties, including information about the new reservation date and time and special offers, making the status of the reservation clear to both the customer and the business.

[0617] Specific examples

[0618] scenario

[0619] At beauty salon A, A already has a reservation for 14:00 on December 10th, and B also wants to make a reservation for the same time on the same day. Furthermore, A's response to past requests to change the reservation indicates that she does not particularly like changing the reservation.

[0620] 1. Collection of reservation information

[0621] The server retrieves Mr. A's reservation information for December 10th at 2:00 p.m. from Beauty Salon A's reservation system and saves it in the database.

[0622] 2. Enter a new reservation

[0623] The terminal provides an interface for Person B to enter a new reservation for 14:00 on December 10. Person B enters the desired date and time and contact information, and presses the send button.

[0624] 3. Receiving new reservations

[0625] The server receives Mr. B's new reservation information and stores it in the database.

[0626] 4. Check for duplicate reservations

[0627] The server confirms that the new reservation information overlaps with Mr. A's existing reservation.

[0628] 5. Check customer availability and sentiment

[0629] The server retrieves Mr. A's available time (for example, December 10th, 13:00-17:00) from the database, and then analyzes Mr. A's past response data using an emotion engine to evaluate his / her feelings regarding the reservation change.

[0630] 6. Requesting a change to your reservation

[0631] The server sends a flexible message based on the emotion engine to Mr. A via email: "Could you change your reservation to December 10th at 3:00 PM? If you do, we will offer you a 5% discount coupon."

[0632] 7. Collecting Customer Responses

[0633] The terminal provides an interface for A to respond to the email, and A selects "Yes."

[0634] 8. Updating your reservation schedule

[0635] The server changes A's reservation to December 10th at 15:00, and confirms B's reservation to December 10th at 14:00. This information is reflected in Beauty Salon A's reservation system.

[0636] 9. Sending confirmation notices

[0637] The server sends a reservation confirmation notification to Mr. A, Mr. B, and salon A.

[0638] This system reduces the effort required for operators to arrange reservations and enables them to respond in a way that takes into consideration customer feelings, thereby improving customer satisfaction.

[0639] The processing flow will be explained below.

[0640] Step 1:

[0641] The server accesses the operator's reservation system API to obtain the latest reservation information (e.g., reserved time slot, name of the person making the reservation, contact information, etc.). This information is stored in the server's database.

[0642] Step 2:

[0643] The server stores customer contact information, past booking history, and availability information in a database, ensuring that detailed information about each customer is always available.

[0644] Step 3:

[0645] The terminal provides an interface for users (customers) to enter new reservations. The user inputs the desired date and time, service details, and contact information, and then presses the send button.

[0646] Step 4:

[0647] The server receives the new reservation information sent from the terminal and temporarily stores the received information in the server's database.

[0648] Step 5:

[0649] The server checks whether there are any overlaps between the new reservation and existing reservations, and if there are any overlaps between the new reservation and existing reservations, it lists the overlaps.

[0650] Step 6:

[0651] The server checks the availability of time for each customer to which the overlapping reservations belong based on the overlapping reservation information, and sets a criterion for determining priority.

[0652] Step 7:

[0653] The server analyzes past response data of customers using an emotion engine to learn customer emotion patterns, and includes a means for estimating emotions based on real-time responses.

[0654] Step 8:

[0655] The server sends a reservation change request based on the result of the emotion engine. The request is sent via email or chat, and a special offer (e.g., a discount coupon) is offered. The emotion engine adjusts the request and the special offer based on the customer's emotions.

[0656] Step 9:

[0657] The terminal provides an interface to customers who have received a reservation change request, displaying a notification of the change request, and the customer can choose to "change" or "not change."

[0658] Step 10:

[0659] The server receives the customer's response from the terminal and updates the reservation schedule according to the response. If the customer selects "Change," the changed reservation is confirmed.

[0660] Step 11:

[0661] The server saves the updated reservation information in a database and also reflects it in the reservation systems of all parties involved, i.e., other reservation participants and businesses.

[0662] Step 12:

[0663] The server will then send a confirmation of the booking to all parties via email and chat, including the new booking date and time and any special offers that may be offered.

[0664] Specific examples

[0665] Step 1:

[0666] The server retrieves Mr. A's reservation information for December 10th at 2:00 PM from Beauty Salon A's reservation system and stores it in the database.

[0667] Step 2:

[0668] The server stores in a database Mr. A's contact information, past reservation history, and information about his available time between 13:00 and 17:00 on December 10th.

[0669] Step 3:

[0670] The terminal provides an interface for Person B to enter a new reservation on the beauty salon's website for 2:00 PM on December 10. Person B enters the desired date and time and contact information, and presses the send button.

[0671] Step 4:

[0672] The server receives Mr. B's new reservation information and stores it in the database.

[0673] Step 5:

[0674] The server verifies that the new reservation information overlaps with Mr. A's existing reservation.

[0675] Step 6:

[0676] The server checks Mr. A's time availability and determines the priority for resolving duplicates.

[0677] Step 7:

[0678] The server uses an emotion engine to analyze A's past response data, learn A's emotional patterns, and estimate emotions based on real-time responses.

[0679] Step 8:

[0680] Based on the analysis results of the emotion engine, the server sends a flexible message to Mr. A via email saying, "Could you change it to 3:00 PM on December 10th? If you do, we will give you a 5% discount coupon."

[0681] Step 9:

[0682] The terminal provides an interface for A to respond to the email, and A selects "Yes."

[0683] Step 10:

[0684] The server changes A's reservation to December 10th at 15:00, and confirms B's reservation to December 10th at 14:00. This information is reflected in Beauty Salon A's reservation system.

[0685] Step 11:

[0686] The server sends a reservation confirmation notification to Mr. A, Mr. B, and salon A.

[0687] The system, which incorporates an emotion engine, allows operators to reduce the effort required for scheduling reservations and achieve improved customer satisfaction.

[0688] Example 2

[0689] Next, a description will be given of Example 2. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as a "server" and the smart glasses 214 will be referred to as a "terminal."

[0690] Conventional reservation management systems have had problems with inadequate customer service when overlapping reservations occur, and in particular, a lack of consideration for customer feelings leads to a decline in customer satisfaction. Another issue is the lack of a means to efficiently adjust reservations, which places a heavy burden on operators.

[0691] The specific processing by the specific processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in the second embodiment is realized by the following means.

[0692] In this invention, the server includes means for acquiring reservation information from the business operator, means for storing information about a customer's past reservation history and available time in a database, means for providing an interface for inputting a new reservation, means for receiving new reservation information and comparing it with existing reservations to check for overlaps, means for determining priorities to resolve overlaps if there are any, means for sending a reservation change request to the customer and offering a special offer, means for receiving a response from the customer and updating the reservation schedule, means for sending a reservation confirmation notification to all parties involved, and means for estimating the customer's emotions and adjusting the change request message based on the estimation, thereby enabling more efficient reservation adjustments and improved customer satisfaction.

[0693] The "means for acquiring reservation information from businesses" refers to a means for linking with a business's reservation system and acquiring reservation information in real time.

[0694] The "means for storing information on a customer's past reservation history and available time in a database" refers to a means for recording and storing details of reservations made by a customer in the past and available reservation time slots in a database.

[0695] The "means for providing an interface for inputting a new reservation" refers to a means for providing a screen or form for a user to input new reservation information.

[0696] The "means for receiving new reservation information and checking for overlaps by comparing it with existing reservations" is a means for receiving newly entered reservation information and checking whether it overlaps with existing reservation information.

[0697] The "means for determining priorities to resolve overlapping reservations when there are overlapping reservations" refers to a means for determining which reservation should have priority when there are overlapping reservations.

[0698] The "means for sending a reservation change request to a customer and offering a special benefit" is a means for requesting a customer to change an overlapping reservation and offering an incentive for accepting the change.

[0699] The "means for receiving a response from a customer and updating the reservation schedule" is a means for receiving a response from a customer to a reservation change and updating the reservation schedule based on the content of the response.

[0700] The "means for sending a notification of confirmed reservation to all parties involved" is a means for finalizing the reservation schedule and notifying all parties involved of that information.

[0701] "Means for estimating customer sentiment and adjusting change request messages based on that sentiment" refers to means for analyzing and estimating customer sentiment, and generating and sending appropriate messages based on the results.

[0702] The reservation management system based on this invention efficiently manages reservation information for businesses and improves customer satisfaction. This system achieves optimal reservation management by utilizing communication between servers, terminals, and users, as well as an emotion engine. It is also novel in that the emotion engine estimates customer emotions and enables responses based on those estimates.

[0703] First, the system includes a means for collecting reservation information from businesses. The server connects to the business's reservation system and obtains reservation information in real time. This information includes information such as the reserved time slot, the name of the person making the reservation, and contact information. This information is stored in the server's database. Information about the customer's past reservation history and available time is also stored in the database, making it possible to manage detailed information for each customer.

[0704] Next, the terminal provides an interface for the user (customer) to input a new reservation. The user inputs the desired date and time, service details, and contact information, and presses the send button. The submitted new reservation information is received by the server and temporarily stored in a database. The server then verifies the new reservation information against existing reservation information to check for any overlaps.

[0705] If a new reservation overlaps with an existing reservation, the server checks the customer's available time and determines the priority for each customer to which the overlapping reservation belongs.The server then sends a reservation change request to the customer to resolve the overlap.At this time, the emotion engine is utilized.The emotion engine analyzes the customer's past response data, learns the customer's emotional patterns, and estimates the customer's emotions based on the real-time response content.

[0706] For example, the system predicts how a customer will feel about a change request based on their responses to past change requests. It can detect emotions in real time from the content of the response and the language used, and adjust the content of the message and special offers based on the results. Specifically, when the server sends a reservation change request, the emotion engine analyzes the customer's emotional data and generates an appropriate message based on that data. This message can increase the likelihood that the customer will accept the change request by using language that is easy for the customer to accept and by including suggestions for discount coupons or special services, for example.

[0707] The terminal displays a notification of the change request to the customer who received the reservation change request. The change request notification includes a flexible message based on the analysis results of the emotion engine, so it takes into account the customer's emotions. The customer selects an option such as "change" or "don't change," and the response is sent to the server.

[0708] The server receives the customer's response and updates the reservation schedule. If the customer agrees to the reservation change, the server confirms the change and saves it in the database, while also updating the operator's reservation system. Finally, the server sends a confirmation of the reservation to all parties involved. The notification includes information about the new reservation date and time and special offers, clarifying the status of the reservation for both the customer and the operator.

[0709] Specific examples

[0710] For example, consider a situation where Person A already has a reservation at a beauty salon for 14:00 on December 10th, and Person B also wants to make a reservation for the same date and time. Person A's response to a past request to change the reservation indicates that he or she has negative feelings about changing the reservation.

[0711] 1. Collection of reservation information

[0712] The server retrieves Mr. A's reservation information for December 10th at 2:00 p.m. from the beauty salon's reservation system and saves it in the database.

[0713] 2. Enter a new reservation

[0714] The terminal provides an interface for Person B to enter a new reservation for 14:00 on December 10. Person B enters the desired date and time and contact information, and presses the send button.

[0715] 3. Receiving new reservations

[0716] The server receives Mr. B's new reservation information and stores it in the database.

[0717] 4. Check for duplicate reservations

[0718] The server confirms that the new reservation information overlaps with Mr. A's existing reservation.

[0719] 5. Check customer availability and sentiment

[0720] The server retrieves Mr. A's available time (for example, December 10th, 13:00-17:00) from the database, and then analyzes Mr. A's past response data using an emotion engine to evaluate his / her feelings regarding the reservation change.

[0721] 6. Requesting a change to your reservation

[0722] The server sends a flexible message based on the emotion engine to Mr. A via email: "Could you change your reservation to December 10th at 3:00 PM? If you do, we will offer you a 5% discount coupon."

[0723] 7. Collecting Customer Responses

[0724] The terminal provides an interface for A to respond to the email, and A selects "Yes."

[0725] 8. Updating your reservation schedule

[0726] The server changes A's reservation to December 10th at 15:00, and confirms B's reservation to December 10th at 14:00. This information is then reflected in the beauty salon's reservation system.

[0727] 9. Sending confirmation notices

[0728] The server sends a confirmation notification to A, B, and the hair salon, including the new reservation date and time and a discount coupon.

[0729] This system reduces the effort required for operators to arrange reservations and enables them to respond in a way that takes into consideration customer feelings, thereby improving customer satisfaction.

[0730] Example prompts to input to the generative AI model

[0731] "If the appointment at the beauty salon on December 10th at 2:00 PM has already been booked by another customer, how should we suggest to customer B who wishes to make a new appointment? Also, please suggest the optimal message to send when requesting a change of appointment, taking into account customer A's feelings."

[0732] The flow of the identification process in the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0733] Step 1:

[0734] Collection of reservation information

[0735] The server works with the business's reservation system to obtain reservation information in real time. At this time, the server sends an API request to the business's reservation system to obtain information such as the reserved time slot, the name of the person making the reservation, and contact information. The obtained information is saved in the server's database. This data processing allows the server to maintain the latest reservation information.

[0736] Input: Reservation information obtained via API request from the business's reservation system

[0737] Output: Latest reservation information stored in the database

[0738] Specific operation: The server periodically sends an API request to update reservation information.

[0739] Step 2:

[0740] Enter a new reservation

[0741] The terminal provides an interface for users to enter new reservations. The user enters the desired date and time, service details, and contact information into the terminal's input form and presses the send button. The entered information is temporarily saved on the terminal.

[0742] Input: Desired date and time, service details, and contact information entered by the user

[0743] Output: New reservation information temporarily saved on the device

[0744] Specific behavior: The device provides an input form and a calendar widget and accepts user input.

[0745] Step 3:

[0746] Receive new bookings

[0747] The server receives the new reservation information sent from the terminal and stores the new reservation information (desired date and time, service details, contact information) in a database.

[0748] Input: New reservation information sent from the terminal

[0749] Output: New reservation information temporarily saved in the database

[0750] Specific operation: The server receives an HTTP POST request from the terminal and saves the reservation information in a database.

[0751] Step 4:

[0752] Check for duplicate reservations

[0753] The server checks the new reservation information against existing reservation information in the database to see if there are any overlaps. It also compares the desired date and time of the new reservation information with the date and time of the existing reservation information and sets a flag if there are any overlaps.

[0754] Input: Existing reservations in the database and new reservations

[0755] Output: Flag for duplicates

[0756] What happens: The server runs a database query to see if the new reservation information overlaps with an existing reservation.

[0757] Step 5:

[0758] Checking customer availability and sentiment

[0759] The server retrieves the customer's time leeway for overlapping reservations from the database, and uses an emotion engine to analyze the customer's past response data and evaluate their emotion regarding the reservation change.

[0760] Input: Customer time availability in the database, past response data of the emotion engine

[0761] Output: Customer's time availability and emotional assessment

[0762] Specific operation: The server executes a database query and utilizes the emotion engine API to evaluate the customer's emotion.

[0763] Step 6:

[0764] Requesting a change of reservation

[0765] The server generates an appropriate message for the customer based on the analysis results of the emotion engine. For example, it creates a flexible message such as "Could you change your reservation to December 10th at 3:00 PM? If you do, we will offer you a 5% discount coupon." and sends it by email.

[0766] Input: Sentiment engine analysis results, customer time availability

[0767] Output: Generated reservation change request message, sent email

[0768] Specific operation: The server uses the email sending API to send emotion-based messages to customers.

[0769] Step 7:

[0770] Collecting customer responses

[0771] The terminal provides an interface for the customer to respond to the email. The options "Change" and "Don't change" are displayed, and if the customer selects "Change," the response is sent to the server.

[0772] Input: Customer's choice (change, don't change)

[0773] Output: Customer response sent to server

[0774] Specific operation: The device collects customer responses via links in emails or dedicated apps.

[0775] Step 8:

[0776] Update your reservation schedule

[0777] The server receives the customer's response and updates the reservation schedule. If the customer agrees to the reservation change, the server saves the change information in the database and reflects it in the operator's reservation system.

[0778] Input: Customer response

[0779] Output: Updated appointment schedule, database update

[0780] What happens: The server updates the database and sends the changes to the operator's reservation system via API.

[0781] Step 9:

[0782] Sending confirmation notices

[0783] The server then sends a confirmation of the reservation to all parties, including the new reservation date and time and a discount coupon.

[0784] Input: Updated appointment schedule

[0785] Output: Booking confirmation sent to all parties

[0786] Specific operation: The server uses the email sending API to send a confirmation notice to the customer and the business.

[0787] This specific process allows the server, terminal, and user to work together to achieve efficient reservation management and improved customer satisfaction.

[0788] (Application example 2)

[0789] Next, a description will be given of Application Example 2. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as a "server" and the smart glasses 214 will be referred to as a "terminal."

[0790] With conventional reservation management systems, responses to customer reservation overlaps and change requests were often handled manually, creating challenges in improving customer satisfaction and improving business efficiency. Furthermore, when changing a reservation, a uniform message was sent without considering the customer's feelings, making it difficult for customers to respond to change requests. This increased the business's workload and led to a decline in customer satisfaction.

[0791] The specific processing by the specific processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in the application example 2 is realized by the following means.

[0792] In this invention, the server includes means for acquiring reservation information from the business, means for storing information on the customer's past reservation history and available time in a database, means for providing an interface for inputting new reservations, means for receiving new reservation information and comparing it with existing reservations to check for overlaps, means for determining priorities to resolve overlaps if there are any overlapping reservations, means for sending a reservation change request to the customer and offering benefits, means for analyzing customer emotion data and generating flexible messages based on the data, means for receiving responses from the customer and updating the reservation schedule, and means for sending notification of confirmed reservations to all parties involved. This enables flexible responses that take customer emotions into consideration, improving customer satisfaction and improving the business operator's work efficiency.

[0793] "Business reservation information" refers to customer reservation data managed by the business providing the service, and includes information such as the reservation date and time, the name of the person making the reservation, and contact information.

[0794] "Past reservation history" refers to a series of data related to reservations made by a customer, including information such as reservation date and time, service details, and changes.

[0795] "Time slack" refers to data that indicates how much flexibility a customer has in their schedule for a particular date and time, including flexible time slots.

[0796] "Interface" refers to the screens and input devices that users use to interact with the system and to enter, confirm, and change reservations.

[0797] "New reservation information" refers to data relating to a new reservation entered by a customer, including information such as the desired date and time, service details, and contact information.

[0798] "Duplicate check" refers to the process of checking whether newly entered reservation information overlaps with existing reservation information.

[0799] "Priority" refers to the criteria for determining the priority of reservations, which is set based on the customer's time availability and other factors.

[0800] "Emotional data" refers to data that indicates the emotional state of a customer, and is derived from the customer's past responses and real-time responses.

[0801] "Flexible messages" are messages that are tailored to the customer's emotional state and include expressions and offers that are easy for the customer to accept.

[0802] "Reservation Change Request" refers to the process of asking a customer to change an existing reservation.

[0803] "Benefits" are incentives offered to customers when they agree to change their reservations, such as discount coupons or additional services.

[0804] "Reservation schedule update" refers to the process of updating reservation information based on customer responses.

[0805] "Reservation Confirmation Notification" means a communication to all parties informing them that the status of a reservation has been finalized and including information about the new reservation date and time and any special offers.

[0806] The system for implementing this invention improves the efficiency of reservation management for businesses and realizes flexible responses that take into account customer feelings. This system uses the following main hardware and software:

[0807] Hardware:

[0808] Server: Used to collect, store, analyze, and notify reservation information.

[0809] Devices (smartphones, head-mounted displays, etc.): Provide the user interface for customers to enter new reservations and receive change request notifications.

[0810] software:

[0811] Natural Language Processing (NLP) libraries: Python's NLTK and spaCy are used to analyze customer sentiment data.

[0812] Database: We use a database system such as MySQL to manage reservation information and customer past reservation history.

[0813] Emotion Recognition System: Uses Python emotion analysis libraries (e.g., TextBlob and Transformers) to estimate emotions from real-time and past customer responses.

[0814] Specifically, the server collects reservation information from operators in real time and stores it in a database. When a customer enters and submits a new reservation via a terminal, the server receives the new reservation information and compares it with existing reservations. If there are overlapping reservations, the server analyzes the customer's time availability and emotional data to determine priority.

[0815] The server then uses the emotion engine to generate an appropriate message when a customer requests a change of reservation. For example, if the customer has previously been negative about changing a reservation, a flexible message offering a discount coupon or other special offer can be generated. The message is then sent to the customer via email or chat.

[0816] When the customer responds to the message, the response information is sent to the server, which updates the reservation schedule. Finally, the server sends a confirmation of the reservation to all parties, indicating the updated reservation information and special offers.

[0817] Examples:

[0818] For example, consider the case where user A has an appointment at a hair salon for 14:00 on December 10th, and user B also wants to make an appointment at the same time. First, the server collects the appointment information and saves it in a database. When user B enters the appointment, that information is received and duplicates are confirmed. Next, the emotion engine analyzes user A's past responses and determines that user A is opposed to changing the appointment. The server generates a flexible message saying, "If you change your appointment to 15:00 on December 10th, we will offer you a 5% discount coupon," and sends it to user A. If user A responds "Yes," the server changes user A's appointment to 15:00 and confirms user B's appointment at 14:00. Finally, a notification of the confirmed appointment is sent to all parties involved.

[0819] Example prompt sentence:

[0820] "Determine how the user feels about the change request and generate the following messages: If the user has a positive sentiment, create a discount message offering 10% off their next service; if the user has a negative sentiment, create a message offering a 5% off coupon."

[0821] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 2 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0822] Step 1:

[0823] The server collects reservation information in real time from the business's reservation system, specifically, data such as the reservation date and time, the name of the person making the reservation, and contact information, and stores it in a database.

[0824] Input: Reservation information from the business's reservation system

[0825] Output: Reservation information stored in the database

[0826] Step 2:

[0827] The terminal provides an interface for the user to input a new reservation. The user inputs the desired date and time, service details, and contact information, and then presses the send button.

[0828] Input: New reservation information entered by the user

[0829] Output: New reservation information sent from the terminal

[0830] Step 3:

[0831] The server receives new reservation information sent from the terminal, temporarily stores it in a database, and then compares it with existing reservation information to check for duplicates.

[0832] Input: New reservation information, existing reservation information

[0833] Output: Duplicate check result

[0834] Step 4:

[0835] When the server finds overlapping reservations, it determines the priority for resolving the overlapping reservations. It sets a priority for each customer to which the overlapping reservations belong based on the customer's time availability and existing reservation history.

[0836] Input: Customer's time availability, past booking history

[0837] Output: Priority decision result

[0838] Step 5:

[0839] The server uses an emotion engine to analyze customer emotion data and generate appropriate messages when a reservation change request is made. Specifically, it creates flexible messages including discount coupons and special offers based on past response data and real-time responses.

[0840] Input: Customer sentiment data, past response data

[0841] Output: Flexible message

[0842] Step 6:

[0843] The server sends flexible messages via email or chat to customers with overlapping reservations.

[0844] Input: Flexible message

[0845] Output: Message sent

[0846] Step 7:

[0847] The terminal provides an interface for the customer to respond to the message, selecting "change" or "don't change" and sending the response to the server.

[0848] Input: Customer response

[0849] Output: Response sent to the server

[0850] Step 8:

[0851] The server receives the response from the customer and updates the reservation schedule. If the customer agrees to the reservation change, the server saves the new reservation information in the database and updates the existing reservation information.

[0852] Input: Customer response, current reservation information

[0853] Output: Updated reservation information

[0854] Step 9:

[0855] The server sends a confirmation of the reservation to all parties, including information about the new reservation date and time and special offers.

[0856] Input: Updated reservation information

[0857] Output: Confirmation sent

[0858] The specific processing unit 290 transmits the result of the specific processing to the smart glasses 214. In the smart glasses 214, the control unit 46A causes the speaker 240 to output the result of the specific processing. The microphone 238 acquires audio indicating a user input regarding the result of the specific processing. The control unit 46A transmits audio data indicating the user input acquired by the microphone 238 to the data processing device 12. In the data processing device 12, the specific processing unit 290 acquires the audio data.

[0859] The data generation model 58 is a so-called generative AI (Artificial Intelligence). An example of the data generation model 58 is ChatGPT (Internet Search<URL: https: / / openai.com / blog / chatgpt> ), Gemini (Internet search <url: https: gemini.google.com ?hl="ja">) and other generation AIs. The data generation model 58 is obtained by performing deep learning on a neural network. A prompt including an instruction is input to the data generation model 58, and inference data such as voice data indicating voice, text data indicating text, and image data indicating an image is also input. The data generation model 58 performs inference on the input inference data in accordance with the instruction indicated by the prompt, and outputs the inference result in a data format such as voice data and text data. Here, inference refers to, for example, analysis, classification, prediction, and / or summarization.

[0860] In the above embodiment, an example in which the specific processing is performed by the data processing device 12 has been given, but the technology of the present disclosure is not limited to this, and the specific processing may be performed by the smart glasses 214.

[0861] [Third embodiment]

[0862] FIG. 5 shows an example of the configuration of a data processing system 310 according to the third embodiment.

[0863] 5, the data processing system 310 includes the data processing device 12 and a headset terminal 314. An example of the data processing device 12 is a server.

[0864] The data processing device 12 includes a computer 22, a database 24, and a communication I / F 26. The computer 22 is an example of a "computer" according to the technology of the present disclosure. The computer 22 includes a processor 28, a RAM 30, and a storage 32. The processor 28, the RAM 30, and the storage 32 are connected to a bus 34. The database 24 and the communication I / F 26 are also connected to the bus 34. The communication I / F 26 is connected to a network 54. Examples of the network 54 include a WAN (Wide Area Network) and / or a LAN (Local Area Network).

[0865] The headset type terminal 314 includes a computer 36, a microphone 238, a speaker 240, a camera 42, a communication I / F 44, and a display 343. The computer 36 includes a processor 46, a RAM 48, and a storage 50. The processor 46, the RAM 48, and the storage 50 are connected to a bus 52. The microphone 238, the speaker 240, the camera 42, and the display 343 are also connected to the bus 52.

[0866] The microphone 238 receives instructions and the like from the user 20 by receiving voice uttered by the user 20. The microphone 238 captures the voice uttered by the user 20, converts the captured voice into audio data, and outputs it to the processor 46. The speaker 240 outputs audio in accordance with instructions from the processor 46.

[0867] Camera 42 is a small digital camera equipped with an optical system including a lens, aperture, and shutter, and an imaging element such as a CMOS (Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor) image sensor or a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) image sensor, and captures images of the surroundings of user 20 (for example, an imaging range defined by an angle of view equivalent to the field of vision of a typical healthy person).

[0868] The communication I / F 44 is connected to a network 54. The communication I / Fs 44 and 26 are responsible for the exchange of various information between the processor 46 and the processor 28 via the network 54. The exchange of various information between the processor 46 and the processor 28 using the communication I / Fs 44 and 26 is carried out in a secure state.

[0869] Fig. 6 shows an example of the main functions of the data processing device 12 and the headset type terminal 314. As shown in Fig. 6, in the data processing device 12, a specific process is performed by the processor 28. A specific process program 56 is stored in the storage 32.

[0870] The specific processing program 56 is an example of a "program" according to the technology of the present disclosure. The processor 28 reads the specific processing program 56 from the storage 32 and executes the read specific processing program 56 on the RAM 30. The specific processing is realized by the processor 28 operating as a specific processing unit 290 in accordance with the specific processing program 56 executed on the RAM 30.

[0871] The storage 32 stores a data generation model 58 and an emotion identification model 59. The data generation model 58 and the emotion identification model 59 are used by the identification processing unit 290.

[0872] In the headset type terminal 314, a reception output process is performed by the processor 46. A reception output program 60 is stored in the storage 50. The processor 46 reads the reception output program 60 from the storage 50 and executes the read reception output program 60 on the RAM 48. The reception output process is realized by the processor 46 operating as the control unit 46A in accordance with the reception output program 60 executed on the RAM 48.

[0873] Next, a description will be given of the identification process performed by the identification processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as the "server" and the headset type terminal 314 will be referred to as the "terminal."

[0874] The AI ​​reservation concierge system based on this invention performs the following specific processes to streamline reservation coordination work for businesses: This system realizes optimal reservation management through communication between the server, terminals, and users.

[0875] First, in this system, the server is equipped with a means for collecting reservation information from businesses. This server connects with the business's reservation system and obtains reservation information in real time. This allows the server to accurately grasp all reservation information held by the business (reserved time slots, names of people who made reservations, contact information, etc.).

[0876] Next, the server has a database for managing customer information. Information about customer contact details, past reservation history, and availability is stored in this database. This allows detailed information for each customer to be kept at all times, helping to efficiently manage reservations.

[0877] An interface for entering new reservations is provided on the terminal. Users (customers) can make new reservations through the website or app of a beauty salon or esthetic salon. The user enters the desired date and time, service details, and contact information, and presses the send button.

[0878] The new reservation information is received by the server. The server temporarily stores the newly received reservation information in a database and checks whether it overlaps with existing reservation information. If there is an overlap, it detects the information of customers who have already made reservations and checks the customer's availability.

[0879] If a duplicate is detected, the server executes a priority determination process. It prioritizes customers who have time and requests them to reschedule. This request is sent from the server via email or chat. In addition, the server offers incentives (e.g., discount coupons) to encourage the customer to reschedule.

[0880] The customer receives a reservation change request through their terminal. The interface displays options such as "Change" or "Don't change," and the customer confirms the change by responding. If the customer agrees to the reservation change, the information is received by the server, and the reservation schedule is updated.

[0881] The server saves the updated reservation information in its database and automatically updates the reservation systems of all participating businesses. Finally, the server sends a confirmation of the reservation to all parties, including information about the new reservation date and time and special offers.

[0882] Specific examples

[0883] For example:

[0884] scenario

[0885] This section explains the processing flow when a reservation for Person A already exists at Beauty Salon A for 14:00 on December 10th, but Person B also wishes to make a reservation for the same time on the same day.

[0886] 1. Collection of reservation information

[0887] The server retrieves Mr. A's reservation information for December 10th at 2:00 p.m. from Beauty Salon A's reservation system and saves it in the database.

[0888] 2. Enter a new reservation

[0889] The terminal, for example the website of beauty salon A, provides an interface for person B to enter a new appointment for December 10th at 14:00.

[0890] 3. Receiving new reservations

[0891] The server receives Mr. B's new reservation information and temporarily stores it in the database.

[0892] 4. Check for duplicate reservations

[0893] The server confirms that the new reservation information overlaps with Mr. A's existing reservation.

[0894] 5. Check the customer's time availability

[0895] The server retrieves Mr. A's available time (for example, December 10th, 13:00-17:00) from the database.

[0896] 6. Requesting a change to your reservation

[0897] The server sends an email to Mr. A asking, "Could you please change your reservation to December 10th at 3:00 PM?" and presents a 5% discount coupon.

[0898] 7. Collecting Customer Responses

[0899] The device, for example, Person A's smartphone, provides an interface for Person A to respond to the email. Person A selects "Yes" to change the reservation.

[0900] 8. Updating your reservation schedule

[0901] The server changes A's reservation to December 10th at 15:00, and confirms B's reservation to December 10th at 14:00. This information is reflected in Beauty Salon A's reservation system.

[0902] 9. Sending confirmation notices

[0903] The server sends a reservation confirmation notification to Mr. A, Mr. B, and salon A.

[0904] This system will enable businesses to significantly reduce the effort required to arrange reservations, improving customer satisfaction and preventing lost opportunities.

[0905] The processing flow will be explained below.

[0906] Step 1:

[0907] The server accesses the operator's reservation system API and retrieves the latest reservation information (reserved time slot, name of the person making the reservation, contact information, etc.). This information is stored in the server's database.

[0908] Step 2:

[0909] The server stores customer contact information, past booking history, and availability information in a database, ensuring that detailed information about each customer is always available.

[0910] Step 3:

[0911] The terminal provides an interface for users (customers) to enter new reservations. The user inputs the desired date and time, service details, and contact information, and then presses the send button.

[0912] Step 4:

[0913] The server receives the new reservation information sent from the terminal and temporarily stores the received information in the server's database.

[0914] Step 5:

[0915] The server checks whether there are any overlaps between the new reservation and existing reservations, and if there are any overlaps between the new reservation and existing reservations, it lists the overlaps.

[0916] Step 6:

[0917] The server checks the availability of time for each customer to which the overlapping reservations belong based on the overlapping reservation information, and sets a criterion for determining priority.

[0918] Step 7:

[0919] The server sends a request to change the reservation to customers who have time. The request is sent via email or chat, and a special offer (e.g., a discount coupon) is offered.

[0920] Step 8:

[0921] The terminal provides an interface to customers who have received a reservation change request, displaying the change request, and the customer can choose to "change" or "not change."

[0922] Step 9:

[0923] The server receives the customer's response from the terminal and updates the reservation schedule according to the response. If the customer selects "Change," the changed reservation is confirmed.

[0924] Step 10:

[0925] The server saves the updated reservation information in a database and also reflects it in the reservation systems of all parties involved, i.e., other reservation participants and businesses.

[0926] Step 11:

[0927] The server will then send a confirmation of the booking to all parties via email and chat, including the new booking date and time and any special offers that may be offered.

[0928] Through the above processing steps, the AI ​​reservation concierge system efficiently handles reservation adjustment tasks for businesses, preventing lost opportunities and reduced customer satisfaction.

[0929] Example 1

[0930] Next, a description will be given of Example 1. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as a "server" and the headset type terminal 314 will be referred to as a "terminal."

[0931] Currently, many businesses use reservation systems, but they spend a lot of time and effort dealing with duplicate reservations. In order to improve customer satisfaction, they need to respond appropriately, such as by requesting changes to reservations or offering special offers, but these tasks place a burden on businesses. For this reason, there is a demand for a system that can efficiently manage reservations and increase customer satisfaction.

[0932] The specific processing by the specific processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in the first embodiment is realized by the following means.

[0933] In this invention, the server includes a means for acquiring reservation data from the business, a means for storing data on customer history and time availability, and a means for providing a user interface for inputting new reservations, thereby enabling efficient reservation management and quick and appropriate response even in the case of overlapping reservations.

[0934] The "means of acquiring reservation data from businesses" refers to a method for importing reservation information held by businesses into a server using a communication means such as an API or database.

[0935] The "means for storing data on customer history and availability" refers to a method for recording information on the history of reservations made by customers in the past and the time slots available for reservations in a database.

[0936] The "means for providing a user interface for entering a new reservation" is a web page or application interface that allows a customer to enter a new reservation online.

[0937] "Means for receiving new reservation data and comparing it with existing reservations to check for overlaps" refers to a method in which the server receives reservation information sent by the user and compares it with existing reservation information to check for overlaps.

[0938] The "means for determining priorities to resolve overlapping reservations when there are overlapping reservations" is a method for determining, based on evaluation criteria, which reservation to prioritize when an existing reservation and a new reservation overlap.

[0939] "Means of sending reservation change requests to customers and offering rewards" refers to the use of email or messaging apps to request existing customers to change their reservations when a duplicate reservation occurs and to offer rewards such as special offers or discounts.

[0940] The "means for receiving a response from a customer and updating the reservation schedule" is a method for receiving a customer's response to a reservation change request and adjusting the reservation schedule based on the response.

[0941] The "means for sending a reservation confirmation notice to all parties involved" is a method for notifying all parties involved (for example, customers and businesses) of the information after a reservation is confirmed.

[0942] The AI ​​reservation concierge system based on this invention is designed to streamline reservation coordination work for businesses. This system realizes optimal reservation management through communication between the server, terminals, and users.

[0943] First, the server has a means of acquiring reservation data from businesses. This is done, for example, by linking with the business's reservation system via API to acquire information such as reserved time slots, names of people making reservations, and contact details in real time, and then storing that information in the server's database. For example, reservation information can be acquired from a beauty salon's API and stored in the database.

[0944] Next, the terminal provides a user interface for entering new reservations. This interface is provided as a website or application for the beauty salon or esthetic salon, and allows the user to enter the desired date and time, service details, and contact information, and then submit. This allows the user to easily make a new reservation.

[0945] The new reservation information is received by the server, which first temporarily stores the new reservation information in a database and then compares it with existing reservation information to check for duplicates. This allows for accurate management of reservation schedules.

[0946] Furthermore, the server is equipped with a means for determining priorities to resolve overlapping reservations when there are overlapping reservations. This means sets evaluation criteria based on the customer's past reservation history and available time, and decides which reservation to prioritize. For example, it can prioritize customers who have limited time due to work commitments.

[0947] If a reservation change is necessary, the server sends a request to the customer to change the reservation. At this time, the server uses email or messaging apps to offer rewards such as special offers or discount coupons to make the customer more likely to agree to the change. For example, an email might be sent saying, "Could you change your reservation to December 10th at 3:00 PM? We'll offer you a 5% discount coupon for this change."

[0948] The terminal provides a user interface for receiving responses from customers. The terminal collects customer responses from displayed options such as "Change" or "Don't change" and sends the information to the server. The server updates the reservation schedule based on the received information. This keeps the reservation information up to date in real time.

[0949] Finally, the server saves the updated reservation schedule to the database and sends confirmation notifications to all parties, including information about the new reservation date and time and special offers, so that all parties are kept up to date.

[0950] Specific examples

[0951] For example, the following is the processing flow when a reservation for person A already exists at beauty salon A for 14:00 on December 10th, but person B also wants to make a reservation for the same time on the same day.

[0952] First, the server retrieves Person A's reservation information for December 10th at 14:00 from Beauty Salon A's reservation system and saves it in the database. Next, if Person B wishes to make a new reservation for December 10th at 14:00, the terminal provides an interface for this. The server receives Person B's new reservation information and temporarily saves it in the database. The server then checks whether the reservation information is duplicated and retrieves Person A's available time (for example, December 10th at 13:00-17:00) from the database.

[0953] Next, the server sends Person A an email asking, "Could you change your reservation to December 10th at 3:00 PM?" and presents a 5% discount coupon. Person A receives the reservation change request via a device such as a smartphone and responds. If Person A selects "Yes" and agrees to the reservation change, the information is received by the server. The server changes Person A's reservation to December 10th at 3:00 PM, and confirms Person B's reservation to December 10th at 2:00 PM, and saves this information in the database.

[0954] Finally, the server sends a notification of the confirmed reservation to Mr. A, Mr. B, and salon A. This system allows businesses to significantly reduce the effort required for adjusting reservations, improving customer satisfaction and preventing lost opportunities.

[0955] The flow of the identification process in the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0956] Step 1:

[0957] The server obtains the operator's reservation data. Specifically, it obtains reservation information (reserved time slot, name of the person making the reservation, contact information, etc.) from the operator's reservation system via API and stores that data in a database. The input is the reservation information obtained from the API, and the output is the reservation information stored in the database. This allows you to always have the operator's latest reservation information.

[0958] Step 2:

[0959] A user uses a terminal to enter a new reservation. Specifically, they access the website or application of a beauty salon or esthetic salon, enter the desired date and time, service details, and contact information, and then press the send button. The input is the reservation information entered by the user, and the output is sending that data to the server. This allows the user to easily make a new reservation.

[0960] Step 3:

[0961] The server receives new reservation information. It receives new reservation information sent by the user from the terminal and temporarily stores it in the database. The input is the new reservation information sent from the terminal, and the output is the new reservation information temporarily stored in the database. This allows the new reservation information to be stored on the server and made available for subsequent processing.

[0962] Step 4:

[0963] The server collates the reservation data and checks for duplicates. Specifically, it compares new reservation information with existing reservation information to see if there are any duplicates. The input is the new reservation information and the existing reservation information, and the output is the result of whether there are any duplicates. This makes it possible to check whether there are any duplicate reservations.

[0964] Step 5:

[0965] When an overlap is detected, the server checks the reservation holder's available time. Specifically, for the reservation where an overlap is found, the server retrieves the available time of the existing reservation holder from the database. The input is the information of the existing reservation holder, and the output is data regarding the available time. This makes it possible to check whether the existing reservation holder can change the reservation to another time.

[0966] Step 6:

[0967] The server then sends a request to change the reservation to the existing customer via email or messaging app, offering a reward (e.g., a discount coupon). The input is the existing customer's contact information and the proposed change date and time, and the output is the sent request to change the reservation and the offered reward. This allows the existing customer to respond appropriately.

[0968] Step 7:

[0969] The terminal collects the customer's response. Existing reservation holders respond to the reservation change request through the terminal. For example, a smartphone notification displays the options of "change" or "don't change." The input is the customer's response to the reservation change request, and the output is that response data. This makes it possible to adjust the reservation schedule to reflect the customer's wishes.

[0970] Step 8:

[0971] The server updates the reservation schedule. Based on the customer's response, it determines a new reservation schedule and updates the database. The input is the customer's response and existing reservation information, and the output is the updated reservation schedule. This keeps the reservation information up to date in real time.

[0972] Step 9:

[0973] The server sends a reservation confirmation notification to all parties involved. Based on the updated reservation schedule, notifications are sent to the parties involved (e.g., customers and businesses) via email or messaging app. The input is the updated reservation information and contact information of the parties involved, and the output is the sent reservation confirmation notification. This allows all parties involved to keep track of the latest reservation information.

[0974] (Application example 1)

[0975] Next, a description will be given of Application Example 1. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as a "server" and the headset type terminal 314 will be referred to as a "terminal."

[0976] In conventional reservation management systems, adjustments when overlapping reservations occur are often done manually, which not only takes time and effort but also leads to lower customer satisfaction. Furthermore, if a reservation change request is not handled skillfully, it can cause customer dissatisfaction. Another issue is that there are few ways for customers to easily check their reservation status and respond smoothly.

[0977] The specific processing by the specific processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in the application example 1 is realized by the following means.

[0978] In this invention, the server includes a means for acquiring reservation information from the business, a means for storing information on the customer's past reservation history and available time in a database, and a means for providing an interface for inputting new reservations. This allows the business to efficiently manage reservation information, and also enables customers to smoothly respond by easily checking the reservation status.

[0979] "Business reservation information" refers to information obtained by a business from a customer, including the date and time of the reservation, the name of the person making the reservation, contact information, and the details of the reservation.

[0980] "Past reservation history of a customer" refers to historical information such as the date and time of reservations made by the customer in the past, and the details of the services.

[0981] "Information about availability of time" is information about the time slots available to the customer in consideration of other reservations and personal plans.

[0982] A "database" is a system or software for efficiently storing, retrieving, and managing information.

[0983] An "interface" is a software or hardware component that provides a means for a user to access a system and input or obtain information.

[0984] "Receiving reservation information" is the process by which the reservation system receives and stores information about a new or existing reservation on the server.

[0985] A "means for checking for overlaps" is an algorithm or process for determining whether new reservations overlap in time with existing reservations.

[0986] The "means for determining priority" is an algorithm or process that sets priorities taking into account factors such as the customer's available time in order to eliminate overlapping reservations.

[0987] The "means for sending a reservation change request" is a process for sending a notification to a customer requesting a change to their reservation in order to resolve the overlapping reservation.

[0988] "Offering means" is the process of offering discounts, coupons, and other offers to customers to encourage them to change their reservations.

[0989] The "means for receiving a response from a customer" is a process for receiving and processing a customer's response to a reservation change request.

[0990] The "means for updating reservation schedules" is a process for updating the start time and date of reservations based on the received customer response.

[0991] The "means for sending a notification of confirmed reservation" is a notification that sends new reservation information to all parties for confirmation.

[0992] An "automated notification system" is a system that quickly and accurately notifies relevant parties of new or changed reservation information.

[0993] A "natural language processing engine" is a software technology that understands human language and processes it appropriately in the context of voice and text.

[0994] The AI ​​reservation concierge system based on this invention is a system that realizes optimal reservation management through communication between servers, terminals, and users in order to streamline reservation adjustment work for businesses. This system uses the following means.

[0995] The server is equipped with an API linkage means for linking with the business operator's reservation system and obtaining reservation information in real time. This means that all reservation information held by the business operator (such as reserved time slots, names of people who made reservations, contact information, etc.) can be accurately grasped.

[0996] The server then has a database to manage customer information, including contact details, past booking history, and availability. It is recommended to use commercial database software such as MongoDB for this database.

[0997] The interface for entering new reservations is provided via devices (smartphones, tablets, PCs, etc.). Customers can use a reservation website or app to enter the desired date and time, service details, and contact information, and then submit the reservation information. Input via voice recognition is also possible, and this process uses OpenAI GPT-4 as a natural language processing engine.

[0998] The new reservation information is received by the server. The server temporarily stores the newly received reservation information in a database and checks for overlaps with existing reservation information. If there are overlaps, the server determines the priority based on the customer's time availability and decides whether to change the reservation.

[0999] If a conflict is detected, the server sends a rescheduling request to customers who have time to spare. This request is sent using Firebase Cloud Messaging (FCM). The notification includes a special offer, such as a 5% discount coupon, to encourage customers to reschedule.

[1000] Customers receive a reservation change request via their smartphone or other device and respond by choosing "change" or "don't change." If the response is "change," the server updates the reservation schedule and notifies all parties of the updated information. This notification system uses an automated notification system.

[1001] As a concrete example, let's say you want to make an appointment at Hair Salon A on December 10th at 2:00 PM. If there is already a reservation for that time slot, the customer will be prompted with the following prompt: "Would you like to change your appointment to December 10th at 3:00 PM? Please answer yes or no." If the customer answers "yes," the appointment will be rescheduled and the updated information will be notified to all parties involved.

[1002] In this way, the system of the present invention significantly reduces the time and effort required for business operators to adjust reservations, making it possible to improve customer satisfaction and prevent opportunity loss.

[1003] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

[1004] Step 1:

[1005] The server connects to the operator's reservation system via API and obtains reservation information in real time. In this process, information such as the reserved time slot, the name of the person making the reservation, and contact information is obtained and saved in a database. The input is the reservation information from the operator's reservation system, and the output is the reservation information saved in the server's database.

[1006] Step 2:

[1007] The server stores the customer's name, contact details, past booking history, and availability information in a database. This process efficiently manages the information obtained from the customer. The input is the customer's information, and the output is the customer data stored in the database.

[1008] Step 3:

[1009] The terminal provides an interface for entering new reservations. Customers use this interface to enter the desired date and time, service details, and contact information, and then submit the reservation. The input is the reservation information entered by the customer, and the output is the submitted reservation information. Specifically, the user fills out a form on a website or app and presses the submit button.

[1010] Step 4:

[1011] The server receives the new reservation information and temporarily stores it in a database. It then compares it with existing reservation information to check for duplicates. The input is the new reservation information, and the output is the result of checking whether there are any duplicates. In concrete terms, the moment the server receives new reservation information, it automatically starts comparing it with the database.

[1012] Step 5:

[1013] If a duplicate is detected, the server determines the priority based on the customer's time availability. In this process, the server obtains time availability information from the database and determines the priority using an algorithm. The input is the customer's time availability information, and the output is the result of the priority determination. Specifically, the server queries the customer's time availability information and calculates the priority.

[1014] Step 6:

[1015] After determining the priority, the server requests customers who have time to reschedule. This request also includes a special offer, such as a 5% discount coupon. Firebase Cloud Messaging (FCM) is used for notifications. The input is the priority determination result, and the output is the sent notification. Specifically, the server automatically generates a reservation change notification and sends it via FCM.

[1016] Step 7:

[1017] The customer receives a reservation change request through their device and responds by selecting "Change" or "Don't change." The input is the notification sent from the server, and the output is the customer's response. Specifically, the notification is displayed on the device, and the customer taps an option to respond.

[1018] Step 8:

[1019] The server receives the customer's response and updates the reservation schedule. In this process, the reservation date, time, and details are updated and reflected in the reservation systems of all related businesses. The input is the customer's response, and the output is the updated reservation information. Specifically, the server updates the database and reflects the changes in the business's systems via API.

[1020] Step 9:

[1021] The server notifies all parties of the updated reservation information. This notification includes information about the new reservation date and time and any special offers. The input is the updated reservation information, and the output is the notification sent to the parties. Specifically, the server generates a confirmation notification and automatically sends it to the parties.

[1022] Through these steps, the AI ​​reservation concierge system will be operated efficiently, improving convenience for businesses and customers.

[1023] Furthermore, an emotion engine that estimates the user's emotion may be further combined. That is, the identification processing unit 290 may estimate the user's emotion using the emotion identification model 59, and perform identification processing using the user's emotion.

[1024] The AI ​​reservation concierge system based on this invention incorporates an emotion engine that recognizes user emotions and responds appropriately based on them to streamline reservation adjustment work for businesses. This system achieves optimal reservation management and improved customer satisfaction through communication between the server, terminals, and users, as well as the emotion engine.

[1025] First, the system provides a means for collecting reservation information from businesses. The server connects to the business's reservation system and obtains reservation information in real time. This information includes the reserved time slot, the name of the person making the reservation, contact information, and other information, and is stored in the server's database. Information about customers' past reservation history and available time is also stored in the database, making it possible to manage detailed information for each customer.

[1026] The terminal provides an interface for users (customers) to input new reservations. The user inputs the desired date and time, service details, and contact information, and then presses the send button. The submitted new reservation information is received by the server and temporarily stored in a database. The server then verifies the new reservation information against existing reservation information to check for duplicates.

[1027] If a new reservation overlaps with an existing reservation, the server checks the customer's availability and determines the priority of each customer to which the overlapping reservation belongs.The server then sends a reservation change request to customers who have time to spare.The emotion engine is utilized in this process.

[1028] The emotion engine analyzes past customer response data, learns customer emotional patterns, and infers emotions based on real-time customer responses. For example, it predicts how a customer will feel about a change request based on their responses to past change requests. It also detects emotions from the content and wording of real-time responses, and adjusts message content and bonus offerings based on the results.

[1029] Specifically, when the server sends a reservation change request, the emotion engine analyzes the customer's emotion data and generates an appropriate message based on that data. This message can increase the likelihood that the customer will accept the change request by including expressions that are easy for the customer to accept, such as discount coupons or special service offers.

[1030] The terminal displays a notification of the change request to the customer who received the reservation change request. The change request notification includes a flexible message based on the analysis results of the emotion engine, so it takes into account the customer's emotions. The customer selects an option such as "change" or "don't change," and the response is sent to the server.

[1031] The server receives the customer's response and updates the reservation schedule. If the customer agrees to the reservation change, the server confirms the change, saves it in the database, and reflects it in the operator's reservation system.

[1032] Finally, the server sends a confirmation of the reservation to all parties, including information about the new reservation date and time and special offers, making the status of the reservation clear to both the customer and the business.

[1033] Specific examples

[1034] scenario

[1035] At beauty salon A, A already has a reservation for 14:00 on December 10th, and B also wants to make a reservation for the same time on the same day. Furthermore, A's response to past requests to change the reservation indicates that she does not particularly like changing the reservation.

[1036] 1. Collection of reservation information

[1037] The server retrieves Mr. A's reservation information for December 10th at 2:00 p.m. from Beauty Salon A's reservation system and saves it in the database.

[1038] 2. Enter a new reservation

[1039] The terminal provides an interface for Person B to enter a new reservation for 14:00 on December 10. Person B enters the desired date and time and contact information, and presses the send button.

[1040] 3. Receiving new reservations

[1041] The server receives Mr. B's new reservation information and stores it in the database.

[1042] 4. Check for duplicate reservations

[1043] The server confirms that the new reservation information overlaps with Mr. A's existing reservation.

[1044] 5. Check customer availability and sentiment

[1045] The server retrieves Mr. A's available time (for example, December 10th, 13:00-17:00) from the database, and then analyzes Mr. A's past response data using an emotion engine to evaluate his / her feelings regarding the reservation change.

[1046] 6. Requesting a change to your reservation

[1047] The server sends a flexible message based on the emotion engine to Mr. A via email: "Could you change your reservation to December 10th at 3:00 PM? If you do, we will offer you a 5% discount coupon."

[1048] 7. Collecting Customer Responses

[1049] The terminal provides an interface for A to respond to the email, and A selects "Yes."

[1050] 8. Updating your reservation schedule

[1051] The server changes A's reservation to December 10th at 15:00, and confirms B's reservation to December 10th at 14:00. This information is reflected in Beauty Salon A's reservation system.

[1052] 9. Sending confirmation notices

[1053] The server sends a reservation confirmation notification to Mr. A, Mr. B, and salon A.

[1054] This system reduces the effort required for operators to arrange reservations and enables them to respond in a way that takes into consideration customer feelings, thereby improving customer satisfaction.

[1055] The processing flow will be explained below.

[1056] Step 1:

[1057] The server accesses the operator's reservation system API to obtain the latest reservation information (e.g., reserved time slot, name of the person making the reservation, contact information, etc.). This information is stored in the server's database.

[1058] Step 2:

[1059] The server stores customer contact information, past booking history, and availability information in a database, ensuring that detailed information about each customer is always available.

[1060] Step 3:

[1061] The terminal provides an interface for users (customers) to enter new reservations. The user inputs the desired date and time, service details, and contact information, and then presses the send button.

[1062] Step 4:

[1063] The server receives the new reservation information sent from the terminal and temporarily stores the received information in the server's database.

[1064] Step 5:

[1065] The server checks whether there are any overlaps between the new reservation and existing reservations, and if there are any overlaps between the new reservation and existing reservations, it lists the overlaps.

[1066] Step 6:

[1067] The server checks the availability of time for each customer to which the overlapping reservations belong based on the overlapping reservation information, and sets a criterion for determining priority.

[1068] Step 7:

[1069] The server analyzes past response data of customers using an emotion engine to learn customer emotion patterns, and includes a means for estimating emotions based on real-time responses.

[1070] Step 8:

[1071] The server sends a reservation change request based on the result of the emotion engine. The request is sent via email or chat, and a special offer (e.g., a discount coupon) is offered. The emotion engine adjusts the request and the special offer based on the customer's emotions.

[1072] Step 9:

[1073] The terminal provides an interface to customers who have received a reservation change request, displaying a notification of the change request, and the customer can choose to "change" or "not change."

[1074] Step 10:

[1075] The server receives the customer's response from the terminal and updates the reservation schedule according to the response. If the customer selects "Change," the changed reservation is confirmed.

[1076] Step 11:

[1077] The server saves the updated reservation information in a database and also reflects it in the reservation systems of all parties involved, i.e., other reservation participants and businesses.

[1078] Step 12:

[1079] The server will then send a confirmation of the booking to all parties via email and chat, including the new booking date and time and any special offers that may be offered.

[1080] Specific examples

[1081] Step 1:

[1082] The server retrieves Mr. A's reservation information for December 10th at 2:00 PM from Beauty Salon A's reservation system and stores it in the database.

[1083] Step 2:

[1084] The server stores in a database Mr. A's contact information, past reservation history, and information about his available time between 13:00 and 17:00 on December 10th.

[1085] Step 3:

[1086] The terminal provides an interface for Person B to enter a new reservation on the beauty salon's website for 2:00 PM on December 10. Person B enters the desired date and time and contact information, and presses the send button.

[1087] Step 4:

[1088] The server receives Mr. B's new reservation information and stores it in the database.

[1089] Step 5:

[1090] The server verifies that the new reservation information overlaps with Mr. A's existing reservation.

[1091] Step 6:

[1092] The server checks Mr. A's time availability and determines the priority for resolving duplicates.

[1093] Step 7:

[1094] The server uses an emotion engine to analyze A's past response data, learn A's emotional patterns, and estimate emotions based on real-time responses.

[1095] Step 8:

[1096] Based on the analysis results of the emotion engine, the server sends a flexible message to Mr. A via email saying, "Could you change it to 3:00 PM on December 10th? If you do, we will give you a 5% discount coupon."

[1097] Step 9:

[1098] The terminal provides an interface for A to respond to the email, and A selects "Yes."

[1099] Step 10:

[1100] The server changes A's reservation to December 10th at 15:00, and confirms B's reservation to December 10th at 14:00. This information is reflected in Beauty Salon A's reservation system.

[1101] Step 11:

[1102] The server sends a reservation confirmation notification to Mr. A, Mr. B, and salon A.

[1103] The system, which incorporates an emotion engine, allows operators to reduce the effort required for scheduling reservations and achieve improved customer satisfaction.

[1104] Example 2

[1105] Next, a description will be given of Example 2. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as a "server" and the headset type terminal 314 will be referred to as a "terminal."

[1106] Conventional reservation management systems have had problems with inadequate customer service when overlapping reservations occur, and in particular, a lack of consideration for customer feelings leads to a decline in customer satisfaction. Another issue is the lack of a means to efficiently adjust reservations, which places a heavy burden on operators.

[1107] The specific processing by the specific processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in the second embodiment is realized by the following means.

[1108] In this invention, the server includes means for acquiring reservation information from the business operator, means for storing information about a customer's past reservation history and available time in a database, means for providing an interface for inputting a new reservation, means for receiving new reservation information and comparing it with existing reservations to check for overlaps, means for determining priorities to resolve overlaps if there are any, means for sending a reservation change request to the customer and offering a special offer, means for receiving a response from the customer and updating the reservation schedule, means for sending a reservation confirmation notification to all parties involved, and means for estimating the customer's emotions and adjusting the change request message based on the estimation, thereby enabling more efficient reservation adjustments and improved customer satisfaction.

[1109] The "means for acquiring reservation information from businesses" refers to a means for linking with a business's reservation system and acquiring reservation information in real time.

[1110] The "means for storing information on a customer's past reservation history and available time in a database" refers to a means for recording and storing details of reservations made by a customer in the past and available reservation time slots in a database.

[1111] The "means for providing an interface for inputting a new reservation" refers to a means for providing a screen or form for a user to input new reservation information.

[1112] The "means for receiving new reservation information and checking for overlaps by comparing it with existing reservations" is a means for receiving newly entered reservation information and checking whether it overlaps with existing reservation information.

[1113] The "means for determining priorities to resolve overlapping reservations when there are overlapping reservations" refers to a means for determining which reservation should have priority when there are overlapping reservations.

[1114] The "means for sending a reservation change request to a customer and offering a special benefit" is a means for requesting a customer to change an overlapping reservation and offering an incentive for accepting the change.

[1115] The "means for receiving a response from a customer and updating the reservation schedule" is a means for receiving a response from a customer to a reservation change and updating the reservation schedule based on the content of the response.

[1116] The "means for sending a notification of confirmed reservation to all parties involved" is a means for finalizing the reservation schedule and notifying all parties involved of that information.

[1117] "Means for estimating customer sentiment and adjusting change request messages based on that sentiment" refers to means for analyzing and estimating customer sentiment, and generating and sending appropriate messages based on the results.

[1118] The reservation management system based on this invention efficiently manages reservation information for businesses and improves customer satisfaction. This system achieves optimal reservation management by utilizing communication between servers, terminals, and users, as well as an emotion engine. It is also novel in that the emotion engine estimates customer emotions and enables responses based on those estimates.

[1119] First, the system includes a means for collecting reservation information from businesses. The server connects to the business's reservation system and obtains reservation information in real time. This information includes information such as the reserved time slot, the name of the person making the reservation, and contact information. This information is stored in the server's database. Information about the customer's past reservation history and available time is also stored in the database, making it possible to manage detailed information for each customer.

[1120] Next, the terminal provides an interface for the user (customer) to input a new reservation. The user inputs the desired date and time, service details, and contact information, and presses the send button. The submitted new reservation information is received by the server and temporarily stored in a database. The server then verifies the new reservation information against existing reservation information to check for any overlaps.

[1121] If a new reservation overlaps with an existing reservation, the server checks the customer's available time and determines the priority for each customer to which the overlapping reservation belongs.The server then sends a reservation change request to the customer to resolve the overlap.At this time, the emotion engine is utilized.The emotion engine analyzes the customer's past response data, learns the customer's emotional patterns, and estimates the customer's emotions based on the real-time response content.

[1122] For example, the system predicts how a customer will feel about a change request based on their responses to past change requests. It can detect emotions in real time from the content of the response and the language used, and adjust the content of the message and special offers based on the results. Specifically, when the server sends a reservation change request, the emotion engine analyzes the customer's emotional data and generates an appropriate message based on that data. This message can increase the likelihood that the customer will accept the change request by using language that is easy for the customer to accept and by including suggestions for discount coupons or special services, for example.

[1123] The terminal displays a notification of the change request to the customer who received the reservation change request. The change request notification includes a flexible message based on the analysis results of the emotion engine, so it takes into account the customer's emotions. The customer selects an option such as "change" or "don't change," and the response is sent to the server.

[1124] The server receives the customer's response and updates the reservation schedule. If the customer agrees to the reservation change, the server confirms the change and saves it in the database, while also updating the operator's reservation system. Finally, the server sends a confirmation of the reservation to all parties involved. The notification includes information about the new reservation date and time and special offers, clarifying the status of the reservation for both the customer and the operator.

[1125] Specific examples

[1126] For example, consider a situation where Person A already has a reservation at a beauty salon for 14:00 on December 10th, and Person B also wants to make a reservation for the same date and time. Person A's response to a past request to change the reservation indicates that he or she has negative feelings about changing the reservation.

[1127] 1. Collection of reservation information

[1128] The server retrieves Mr. A's reservation information for December 10th at 2:00 p.m. from the beauty salon's reservation system and saves it in the database.

[1129] 2. Enter a new reservation

[1130] The terminal provides an interface for Person B to enter a new reservation for 14:00 on December 10. Person B enters the desired date and time and contact information, and presses the send button.

[1131] 3. Receiving new reservations

[1132] The server receives Mr. B's new reservation information and stores it in the database.

[1133] 4. Check for duplicate reservations

[1134] The server confirms that the new reservation information overlaps with Mr. A's existing reservation.

[1135] 5. Check customer availability and sentiment

[1136] The server retrieves Mr. A's available time (for example, December 10th, 13:00-17:00) from the database, and then analyzes Mr. A's past response data using an emotion engine to evaluate his / her feelings regarding the reservation change.

[1137] 6. Requesting a change to your reservation

[1138] The server sends a flexible message based on the emotion engine to Mr. A via email: "Could you change your reservation to December 10th at 3:00 PM? If you do, we will offer you a 5% discount coupon."

[1139] 7. Collecting Customer Responses

[1140] The terminal provides an interface for A to respond to the email, and A selects "Yes."

[1141] 8. Updating your reservation schedule

[1142] The server changes A's reservation to December 10th at 15:00, and confirms B's reservation to December 10th at 14:00. This information is then reflected in the beauty salon's reservation system.

[1143] 9. Sending confirmation notices

[1144] The server sends a confirmation notification to A, B, and the hair salon, including the new reservation date and time and a discount coupon.

[1145] This system reduces the effort required for operators to arrange reservations and enables them to respond in a way that takes into consideration customer feelings, thereby improving customer satisfaction.

[1146] Example prompts to input to the generative AI model

[1147] "If the appointment at the beauty salon on December 10th at 2:00 PM has already been booked by another customer, how should we suggest to customer B who wishes to make a new appointment? Also, please suggest the optimal message to send when requesting a change of appointment, taking into account customer A's feelings."

[1148] The flow of the identification process in the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[1149] Step 1:

[1150] Collection of reservation information

[1151] The server works with the business's reservation system to obtain reservation information in real time. At this time, the server sends an API request to the business's reservation system to obtain information such as the reserved time slot, the name of the person making the reservation, and contact information. The obtained information is saved in the server's database. This data processing allows the server to maintain the latest reservation information.

[1152] Input: Reservation information obtained via API request from the business's reservation system

[1153] Output: Latest reservation information stored in the database

[1154] Specific operation: The server periodically sends an API request to update reservation information.

[1155] Step 2:

[1156] Enter a new reservation

[1157] The terminal provides an interface for users to enter new reservations. The user enters the desired date and time, service details, and contact information into the terminal's input form and presses the send button. The entered information is temporarily saved on the terminal.

[1158] Input: Desired date and time, service details, and contact information entered by the user

[1159] Output: New reservation information temporarily saved on the device

[1160] Specific behavior: The device provides an input form and a calendar widget and accepts user input.

[1161] Step 3:

[1162] Receive new bookings

[1163] The server receives the new reservation information sent from the terminal and stores the new reservation information (desired date and time, service details, contact information) in a database.

[1164] Input: New reservation information sent from the terminal

[1165] Output: New reservation information temporarily saved in the database

[1166] Specific operation: The server receives an HTTP POST request from the terminal and saves the reservation information in a database.

[1167] Step 4:

[1168] Check for duplicate reservations

[1169] The server checks the new reservation information against existing reservation information in the database to see if there are any overlaps. It also compares the desired date and time of the new reservation information with the date and time of the existing reservation information and sets a flag if there are any overlaps.

[1170] Input: Existing reservations in the database and new reservations

[1171] Output: Flag for duplicates

[1172] What happens: The server runs a database query to see if the new reservation information overlaps with an existing reservation.

[1173] Step 5:

[1174] Checking customer availability and sentiment

[1175] The server retrieves the customer's time leeway for overlapping reservations from the database, and uses an emotion engine to analyze the customer's past response data and evaluate their emotion regarding the reservation change.

[1176] Input: Customer time availability in the database, past response data of the emotion engine

[1177] Output: Customer's time availability and emotional assessment

[1178] Specific operation: The server executes a database query and utilizes the emotion engine API to evaluate the customer's emotion.

[1179] Step 6:

[1180] Requesting a change of reservation

[1181] The server generates an appropriate message for the customer based on the analysis results of the emotion engine. For example, it creates a flexible message such as "Could you change your reservation to December 10th at 3:00 PM? If you do, we will offer you a 5% discount coupon." and sends it by email.

[1182] Input: Sentiment engine analysis results, customer time availability

[1183] Output: Generated reservation change request message, sent email

[1184] Specific operation: The server uses the email sending API to send emotion-based messages to customers.

[1185] Step 7:

[1186] Collecting customer responses

[1187] The terminal provides an interface for the customer to respond to the email. The options "Change" and "Don't change" are displayed, and if the customer selects "Change," the response is sent to the server.

[1188] Input: Customer's choice (change, don't change)

[1189] Output: Customer response sent to server

[1190] Specific operation: The device collects customer responses via links in emails or dedicated apps.

[1191] Step 8:

[1192] Update your reservation schedule

[1193] The server receives the customer's response and updates the reservation schedule. If the customer agrees to the reservation change, the server saves the change information in the database and reflects it in the operator's reservation system.

[1194] Input: Customer response

[1195] Output: Updated appointment schedule, database update

[1196] What happens: The server updates the database and sends the changes to the operator's reservation system via API.

[1197] Step 9:

[1198] Sending confirmation notices

[1199] The server then sends a confirmation of the reservation to all parties, including the new reservation date and time and a discount coupon.

[1200] Input: Updated appointment schedule

[1201] Output: Booking confirmation sent to all parties

[1202] Specific operation: The server uses the email sending API to send a confirmation notice to the customer and the business.

[1203] This specific process allows the server, terminal, and user to work together to achieve efficient reservation management and improved customer satisfaction.

[1204] (Application example 2)

[1205] Next, a description will be given of Application Example 2. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as a "server" and the headset type terminal 314 will be referred to as a "terminal."

[1206] With conventional reservation management systems, responses to customer reservation overlaps and change requests were often handled manually, creating challenges in improving customer satisfaction and improving business efficiency. Furthermore, when changing a reservation, a uniform message was sent without considering the customer's feelings, making it difficult for customers to respond to change requests. This increased the business's workload and led to a decline in customer satisfaction.

[1207] The specific processing by the specific processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in the application example 2 is realized by the following means.

[1208] In this invention, the server includes means for acquiring reservation information from the business, means for storing information on the customer's past reservation history and available time in a database, means for providing an interface for inputting new reservations, means for receiving new reservation information and comparing it with existing reservations to check for overlaps, means for determining priorities to resolve overlaps if there are any overlapping reservations, means for sending a reservation change request to the customer and offering benefits, means for analyzing customer emotion data and generating flexible messages based on the data, means for receiving responses from the customer and updating the reservation schedule, and means for sending notification of confirmed reservations to all parties involved. This enables flexible responses that take customer emotions into consideration, improving customer satisfaction and improving the business operator's work efficiency.

[1209] "Business reservation information" refers to customer reservation data managed by the business providing the service, and includes information such as the reservation date and time, the name of the person making the reservation, and contact information.

[1210] "Past reservation history" refers to a series of data related to reservations made by a customer, including information such as reservation date and time, service details, and changes.

[1211] "Time slack" refers to data that indicates how much flexibility a customer has in their schedule for a particular date and time, including flexible time slots.

[1212] "Interface" refers to the screens and input devices that users use to interact with the system and to enter, confirm, and change reservations.

[1213] "New reservation information" refers to data relating to a new reservation entered by a customer, including information such as the desired date and time, service details, and contact information.

[1214] "Duplicate check" refers to the process of checking whether newly entered reservation information overlaps with existing reservation information.

[1215] "Priority" refers to the criteria for determining the priority of reservations, which is set based on the customer's time availability and other factors.

[1216] "Emotional data" refers to data that indicates the emotional state of a customer, and is derived from the customer's past responses and real-time responses.

[1217] "Flexible messages" are messages that are tailored to the customer's emotional state and include expressions and offers that are easy for the customer to accept.

[1218] "Reservation Change Request" refers to the process of asking a customer to change an existing reservation.

[1219] "Benefits" are incentives offered to customers when they agree to change their reservations, such as discount coupons or additional services.

[1220] "Reservation schedule update" refers to the process of updating reservation information based on customer responses.

[1221] "Reservation Confirmation Notification" means a communication to all parties informing them that the status of a reservation has been finalized and including information about the new reservation date and time and any special offers.

[1222] The system for implementing this invention improves the efficiency of reservation management for businesses and realizes flexible responses that take into account customer feelings. This system uses the following main hardware and software:

[1223] Hardware:

[1224] Server: Used to collect, store, analyze, and notify reservation information.

[1225] Devices (smartphones, head-mounted displays, etc.): Provide the user interface for customers to enter new reservations and receive change request notifications.

[1226] software:

[1227] Natural Language Processing (NLP) libraries: Python's NLTK and spaCy are used to analyze customer sentiment data.

[1228] Database: We use a database system such as MySQL to manage reservation information and customer past reservation history.

[1229] Emotion Recognition System: Uses Python emotion analysis libraries (e.g., TextBlob and Transformers) to estimate emotions from real-time and past customer responses.

[1230] Specifically, the server collects reservation information from operators in real time and stores it in a database. When a customer enters and submits a new reservation via a terminal, the server receives the new reservation information and compares it with existing reservations. If there are overlapping reservations, the server analyzes the customer's time availability and emotional data to determine priority.

[1231] The server then uses the emotion engine to generate an appropriate message when a customer requests a change of reservation. For example, if the customer has previously been negative about changing a reservation, a flexible message offering a discount coupon or other special offer can be generated. The message is then sent to the customer via email or chat.

[1232] When the customer responds to the message, the response information is sent to the server, which updates the reservation schedule. Finally, the server sends a confirmation of the reservation to all parties, indicating the updated reservation information and special offers.

[1233] Examples:

[1234] For example, consider the case where user A has an appointment at a hair salon for 14:00 on December 10th, and user B also wants to make an appointment at the same time. First, the server collects the appointment information and saves it in a database. When user B enters the appointment, that information is received and duplicates are confirmed. Next, the emotion engine analyzes user A's past responses and determines that user A is opposed to changing the appointment. The server generates a flexible message saying, "If you change your appointment to 15:00 on December 10th, we will offer you a 5% discount coupon," and sends it to user A. If user A responds "Yes," the server changes user A's appointment to 15:00 and confirms user B's appointment at 14:00. Finally, a notification of the confirmed appointment is sent to all parties involved.

[1235] Example prompt sentence:

[1236] "Determine how the user feels about the change request and generate the following messages: If the user has a positive sentiment, create a discount message offering 10% off their next service; if the user has a negative sentiment, create a message offering a 5% off coupon."

[1237] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 2 will be described with reference to FIG.

[1238] Step 1:

[1239] The server collects reservation information in real time from the business's reservation system, specifically, data such as the reservation date and time, the name of the person making the reservation, and contact information, and stores it in a database.

[1240] Input: Reservation information from the business's reservation system

[1241] Output: Reservation information stored in the database

[1242] Step 2:

[1243] The terminal provides an interface for the user to input a new reservation. The user inputs the desired date and time, service details, and contact information, and then presses the send button.

[1244] Input: New reservation information entered by the user

[1245] Output: New reservation information sent from the terminal

[1246] Step 3:

[1247] The server receives new reservation information sent from the terminal, temporarily stores it in a database, and then compares it with existing reservation information to check for duplicates.

[1248] Input: New reservation information, existing reservation information

[1249] Output: Duplicate check result

[1250] Step 4:

[1251] When the server finds overlapping reservations, it determines the priority for resolving the overlapping reservations. It sets a priority for each customer to which the overlapping reservations belong based on the customer's time availability and existing reservation history.

[1252] Input: Customer's time availability, past booking history

[1253] Output: Priority decision result

[1254] Step 5:

[1255] The server uses an emotion engine to analyze customer emotion data and generate appropriate messages when a reservation change request is made. Specifically, it creates flexible messages including discount coupons and special offers based on past response data and real-time responses.

[1256] Input: Customer sentiment data, past response data

[1257] Output: Flexible message

[1258] Step 6:

[1259] The server sends flexible messages via email or chat to customers with overlapping reservations.

[1260] Input: Flexible message

[1261] Output: Message sent

[1262] Step 7:

[1263] The terminal provides an interface for the customer to respond to the message, selecting "change" or "don't change" and sending the response to the server.

[1264] Input: Customer response

[1265] Output: Response sent to the server

[1266] Step 8:

[1267] The server receives the response from the customer and updates the reservation schedule. If the customer agrees to the reservation change, the server saves the new reservation information in the database and updates the existing reservation information.

[1268] Input: Customer response, current reservation information

[1269] Output: Updated reservation information

[1270] Step 9:

[1271] The server sends a confirmation of the reservation to all parties, including information about the new reservation date and time and special offers.

[1272] Input: Updated reservation information

[1273] Output: Confirmation sent

[1274] The specific processing unit 290 transmits the result of the specific processing to the headset type terminal 314. In the headset type terminal 314, the control unit 46A causes the speaker 240 and the display 343 to output the result of the specific processing. The microphone 238 acquires audio indicating a user input regarding the result of the specific processing. The control unit 46A transmits audio data indicating the user input acquired by the microphone 238 to the data processing device 12. In the data processing device 12, the specific processing unit 290 acquires the audio data.

[1275] The data generation model 58 is a so-called generative AI (Artificial Intelligence). An example of the data generation model 58 is ChatGPT (Internet Search<URL: https: / / openai.com / blog / chatgpt> ), Gemini (Internet search <url: https: gemini.google.com ?hl="ja">) and other generation AIs. The data generation model 58 is obtained by performing deep learning on a neural network. A prompt including an instruction is input to the data generation model 58, and inference data such as voice data indicating voice, text data indicating text, and image data indicating an image is also input. The data generation model 58 performs inference on the input inference data in accordance with the instruction indicated by the prompt, and outputs the inference result in a data format such as voice data and text data. Here, inference refers to, for example, analysis, classification, prediction, and / or summarization.

[1276] In the above embodiment, an example was given in which the specific processing is performed by the data processing device 12, but the technology of the present disclosure is not limited to this, and the specific processing may be performed by the headset type terminal 314.

[1277] [Fourth embodiment]

[1278] FIG. 7 shows an example of the configuration of a data processing system 410 according to the fourth embodiment.

[1279] 7, a data processing system 410 includes a data processing device 12 and a robot 414. An example of the data processing device 12 is a server.

[1280] The data processing device 12 includes a computer 22, a database 24, and a communication I / F 26. The computer 22 is an example of a "computer" according to the technology of the present disclosure. The computer 22 includes a processor 28, a RAM 30, and a storage 32. The processor 28, the RAM 30, and the storage 32 are connected to a bus 34. The database 24 and the communication I / F 26 are also connected to the bus 34. The communication I / F 26 is connected to a network 54. Examples of the network 54 include a WAN (Wide Area Network) and / or a LAN (Local Area Network).

[1281] The robot 414 includes a computer 36, a microphone 238, a speaker 240, a camera 42, a communication I / F 44, and a control target 443. The computer 36 includes a processor 46, a RAM 48, and a storage 50. The processor 46, the RAM 48, and the storage 50 are connected to a bus 52. The microphone 238, the speaker 240, the camera 42, and the control target 443 are also connected to the bus 52.

[1282] The microphone 238 receives instructions and the like from the user 20 by receiving voice uttered by the user 20. The microphone 238 captures the voice uttered by the user 20, converts the captured voice into audio data, and outputs it to the processor 46. The speaker 240 outputs audio in accordance with instructions from the processor 46.

[1283] Camera 42 is a small digital camera equipped with an optical system including a lens, aperture, and shutter, and an imaging element such as a CMOS (Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor) image sensor or a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) image sensor, and captures images of the surroundings of user 20 (for example, an imaging range defined by an angle of view equivalent to the field of vision of a typical healthy person).

[1284] The communication I / F 44 is connected to a network 54. The communication I / Fs 44 and 26 are responsible for the exchange of various information between the processor 46 and the processor 28 via the network 54. The exchange of various information between the processor 46 and the processor 28 using the communication I / Fs 44 and 26 is carried out in a secure state.

[1285] The control object 443 includes a display device, LEDs in the eyes, and motors for driving the arms, hands, and feet. The posture and gestures of the robot 414 are controlled by controlling the motors of the arms, hands, and feet. Some of the emotions of the robot 414 can be expressed by controlling these motors. In addition, the facial expressions of the robot 414 can also be expressed by controlling the light emission state of the LEDs in the eyes of the robot 414.

[1286] Fig. 8 shows an example of the main functions of the data processing device 12 and the robot 414. As shown in Fig. 8, in the data processing device 12, a specific process is performed by the processor 28. A specific process program 56 is stored in the storage 32.

[1287] The specific processing program 56 is an example of a "program" according to the technology of the present disclosure. The processor 28 reads the specific processing program 56 from the storage 32 and executes the read specific processing program 56 on the RAM 30. The specific processing is realized by the processor 28 operating as a specific processing unit 290 in accordance with the specific processing program 56 executed on the RAM 30.

[1288] The storage 32 stores a data generation model 58 and an emotion identification model 59. The data generation model 58 and the emotion identification model 59 are used by the identification processing unit 290.

[1289] In the robot 414, the processor 46 performs the reception output process. A reception output program 60 is stored in the storage 50. The processor 46 reads the reception output program 60 from the storage 50 and executes the read reception output program 60 on the RAM 48. The reception output process is realized by the processor 46 operating as the control unit 46A in accordance with the reception output program 60 executed on the RAM 48.

[1290] Next, a description will be given of the specific processing performed by the specific processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as a "server" and the robot 414 will be referred to as a "terminal."

[1291] The AI ​​reservation concierge system based on this invention performs the following specific processes to streamline reservation coordination work for businesses: This system realizes optimal reservation management through communication between the server, terminals, and users.

[1292] First, in this system, the server is equipped with a means for collecting reservation information from businesses. This server connects with the business's reservation system and obtains reservation information in real time. This allows the server to accurately grasp all reservation information held by the business (reserved time slots, names of people who made reservations, contact information, etc.).

[1293] Next, the server has a database for managing customer information. Information about customer contact details, past reservation history, and availability is stored in this database. This allows detailed information for each customer to be kept at all times, helping to efficiently manage reservations.

[1294] An interface for entering new reservations is provided on the terminal. Users (customers) can make new reservations through the website or app of a beauty salon or esthetic salon. The user enters the desired date and time, service details, and contact information, and presses the send button.

[1295] The new reservation information is received by the server. The server temporarily stores the newly received reservation information in a database and checks whether it overlaps with existing reservation information. If there is an overlap, it detects the information of customers who have already made reservations and checks the customer's availability.

[1296] If a duplicate is detected, the server executes a priority determination process. It prioritizes customers who have time and requests them to reschedule. This request is sent from the server via email or chat. In addition, the server offers incentives (e.g., discount coupons) to encourage the customer to reschedule.

[1297] The customer receives a reservation change request through their terminal. The interface displays options such as "Change" or "Don't change," and the customer confirms the change by responding. If the customer agrees to the reservation change, the information is received by the server, and the reservation schedule is updated.

[1298] The server saves the updated reservation information in its database and automatically updates the reservation systems of all participating businesses. Finally, the server sends a confirmation of the reservation to all parties, including information about the new reservation date and time and special offers.

[1299] Specific examples

[1300] For example:

[1301] scenario

[1302] This section explains the processing flow when a reservation for Person A already exists at Beauty Salon A for 14:00 on December 10th, but Person B also wishes to make a reservation for the same time on the same day.

[1303] 1. Collection of reservation information

[1304] The server retrieves Mr. A's reservation information for December 10th at 2:00 p.m. from Beauty Salon A's reservation system and saves it in the database.

[1305] 2. Enter a new reservation

[1306] The terminal, for example the website of beauty salon A, provides an interface for person B to enter a new appointment for December 10th at 14:00.

[1307] 3. Receiving new reservations

[1308] The server receives Mr. B's new reservation information and temporarily stores it in the database.

[1309] 4. Check for duplicate reservations

[1310] The server confirms that the new reservation information overlaps with Mr. A's existing reservation.

[1311] 5. Check the customer's time availability

[1312] The server retrieves Mr. A's available time (for example, December 10th, 13:00-17:00) from the database.

[1313] 6. Requesting a change to your reservation

[1314] The server sends an email to Mr. A asking, "Could you please change your reservation to December 10th at 3:00 PM?" and presents a 5% discount coupon.

[1315] 7. Collecting Customer Responses

[1316] The device, for example, Person A's smartphone, provides an interface for Person A to respond to the email. Person A selects "Yes" to change the reservation.

[1317] 8. Updating your reservation schedule

[1318] The server changes A's reservation to December 10th at 15:00, and confirms B's reservation to December 10th at 14:00. This information is reflected in Beauty Salon A's reservation system.

[1319] 9. Sending confirmation notices

[1320] The server sends a reservation confirmation notification to Mr. A, Mr. B, and salon A.

[1321] This system will enable businesses to significantly reduce the effort required to arrange reservations, improving customer satisfaction and preventing lost opportunities.

[1322] The processing flow will be explained below.

[1323] Step 1:

[1324] The server accesses the operator's reservation system API and retrieves the latest reservation information (reserved time slot, name of the person making the reservation, contact information, etc.). This information is stored in the server's database.

[1325] Step 2:

[1326] The server stores customer contact information, past booking history, and availability information in a database, ensuring that detailed information about each customer is always available.

[1327] Step 3:

[1328] The terminal provides an interface for users (customers) to enter new reservations. The user inputs the desired date and time, service details, and contact information, and then presses the send button.

[1329] Step 4:

[1330] The server receives the new reservation information sent from the terminal and temporarily stores the received information in the server's database.

[1331] Step 5:

[1332] The server checks whether there are any overlaps between the new reservation and existing reservations, and if there are any overlaps between the new reservation and existing reservations, it lists the overlaps.

[1333] Step 6:

[1334] The server checks the availability of time for each customer to which the overlapping reservations belong based on the overlapping reservation information, and sets a criterion for determining priority.

[1335] Step 7:

[1336] The server sends a request to change the reservation to customers who have time. The request is sent via email or chat, and a special offer (e.g., a discount coupon) is offered.

[1337] Step 8:

[1338] The terminal provides an interface to customers who have received a reservation change request, displaying the change request, and the customer can choose to "change" or "not change."

[1339] Step 9:

[1340] The server receives the customer's response from the terminal and updates the reservation schedule according to the response. If the customer selects "Change," the changed reservation is confirmed.

[1341] Step 10:

[1342] The server saves the updated reservation information in a database and also reflects it in the reservation systems of all parties involved, i.e., other reservation participants and businesses.

[1343] Step 11:

[1344] The server will then send a confirmation of the booking to all parties via email and chat, including the new booking date and time and any special offers that may be offered.

[1345] Through the above processing steps, the AI ​​reservation concierge system efficiently handles reservation adjustment tasks for businesses, preventing lost opportunities and reduced customer satisfaction.

[1346] Example 1

[1347] Next, a description will be given of Example 1. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as a "server" and the robot 414 will be referred to as a "terminal."

[1348] Currently, many businesses use reservation systems, but they spend a lot of time and effort dealing with duplicate reservations. In order to improve customer satisfaction, they need to respond appropriately, such as by requesting changes to reservations or offering special offers, but these tasks place a burden on businesses. For this reason, there is a demand for a system that can efficiently manage reservations and increase customer satisfaction.

[1349] The specific processing by the specific processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in the first embodiment is realized by the following means.

[1350] In this invention, the server includes a means for acquiring reservation data from the business, a means for storing data on customer history and time availability, and a means for providing a user interface for inputting new reservations, thereby enabling efficient reservation management and quick and appropriate response even in the case of overlapping reservations.

[1351] The "means of acquiring reservation data from businesses" refers to a method for importing reservation information held by businesses into a server using a communication means such as an API or database.

[1352] The "means for storing data on customer history and availability" refers to a method for recording information on the history of reservations made by customers in the past and the time slots available for reservations in a database.

[1353] The "means for providing a user interface for entering a new reservation" is a web page or application interface that allows a customer to enter a new reservation online.

[1354] "Means for receiving new reservation data and comparing it with existing reservations to check for overlaps" refers to a method in which the server receives reservation information sent by the user and compares it with existing reservation information to check for overlaps.

[1355] The "means for determining priorities to resolve overlapping reservations when there are overlapping reservations" is a method for determining, based on evaluation criteria, which reservation to prioritize when an existing reservation and a new reservation overlap.

[1356] "Means of sending reservation change requests to customers and offering rewards" refers to the use of email or messaging apps to request existing customers to change their reservations when a duplicate reservation occurs and to offer rewards such as special offers or discounts.

[1357] The "means for receiving a response from a customer and updating the reservation schedule" is a method for receiving a customer's response to a reservation change request and adjusting the reservation schedule based on the response.

[1358] The "means for sending a reservation confirmation notice to all parties involved" is a method for notifying all parties involved (for example, customers and businesses) of the information after a reservation is confirmed.

[1359] The AI ​​reservation concierge system based on this invention is designed to streamline reservation coordination work for businesses. This system realizes optimal reservation management through communication between the server, terminals, and users.

[1360] First, the server has a means of acquiring reservation data from businesses. This is done, for example, by linking with the business's reservation system via API to acquire information such as reserved time slots, names of people making reservations, and contact details in real time, and then storing that information in the server's database. For example, reservation information can be acquired from a beauty salon's API and stored in the database.

[1361] Next, the terminal provides a user interface for entering new reservations. This interface is provided as a website or application for the beauty salon or esthetic salon, and allows the user to enter the desired date and time, service details, and contact information, and then submit. This allows the user to easily make a new reservation.

[1362] The new reservation information is received by the server, which first temporarily stores the new reservation information in a database and then compares it with existing reservation information to check for duplicates. This allows for accurate management of reservation schedules.

[1363] Furthermore, the server is equipped with a means for determining priorities to resolve overlapping reservations when there are overlapping reservations. This means sets evaluation criteria based on the customer's past reservation history and available time, and decides which reservation to prioritize. For example, it can prioritize customers who have limited time due to work commitments.

[1364] If a reservation change is necessary, the server sends a request to the customer to change the reservation. At this time, the server uses email or messaging apps to offer rewards such as special offers or discount coupons to make the customer more likely to agree to the change. For example, an email might be sent saying, "Could you change your reservation to December 10th at 3:00 PM? We'll offer you a 5% discount coupon for this change."

[1365] The terminal provides a user interface for receiving responses from customers. The terminal collects customer responses from displayed options such as "Change" or "Don't change" and sends the information to the server. The server updates the reservation schedule based on the received information. This keeps the reservation information up to date in real time.

[1366] Finally, the server saves the updated reservation schedule to the database and sends confirmation notifications to all parties, including information about the new reservation date and time and special offers, so that all parties are kept up to date.

[1367] Specific examples

[1368] For example, the following is the processing flow when a reservation for person A already exists at beauty salon A for 14:00 on December 10th, but person B also wants to make a reservation for the same time on the same day.

[1369] First, the server retrieves Person A's reservation information for December 10th at 14:00 from Beauty Salon A's reservation system and saves it in the database. Next, if Person B wishes to make a new reservation for December 10th at 14:00, the terminal provides an interface for this. The server receives Person B's new reservation information and temporarily saves it in the database. The server then checks whether the reservation information is duplicated and retrieves Person A's available time (for example, December 10th at 13:00-17:00) from the database.

[1370] Next, the server sends Person A an email asking, "Could you change your reservation to December 10th at 3:00 PM?" and presents a 5% discount coupon. Person A receives the reservation change request via a device such as a smartphone and responds. If Person A selects "Yes" and agrees to the reservation change, the information is received by the server. The server changes Person A's reservation to December 10th at 3:00 PM, and confirms Person B's reservation to December 10th at 2:00 PM, and saves this information in the database.

[1371] Finally, the server sends a notification of the confirmed reservation to Mr. A, Mr. B, and salon A. This system allows businesses to significantly reduce the effort required for adjusting reservations, improving customer satisfaction and preventing lost opportunities.

[1372] The flow of the identification process in the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[1373] Step 1:

[1374] The server obtains the operator's reservation data. Specifically, it obtains reservation information (reserved time slot, name of the person making the reservation, contact information, etc.) from the operator's reservation system via API and stores that data in a database. The input is the reservation information obtained from the API, and the output is the reservation information stored in the database. This allows you to always have the operator's latest reservation information.

[1375] Step 2:

[1376] A user uses a terminal to enter a new reservation. Specifically, they access the website or application of a beauty salon or esthetic salon, enter the desired date and time, service details, and contact information, and then press the send button. The input is the reservation information entered by the user, and the output is sending that data to the server. This allows the user to easily make a new reservation.

[1377] Step 3:

[1378] The server receives new reservation information. It receives new reservation information sent by the user from the terminal and temporarily stores it in the database. The input is the new reservation information sent from the terminal, and the output is the new reservation information temporarily stored in the database. This allows the new reservation information to be stored on the server and made available for subsequent processing.

[1379] Step 4:

[1380] The server collates the reservation data and checks for duplicates. Specifically, it compares new reservation information with existing reservation information to see if there are any duplicates. The input is the new reservation information and the existing reservation information, and the output is the result of whether there are any duplicates. This makes it possible to check whether there are any duplicate reservations.

[1381] Step 5:

[1382] When an overlap is detected, the server checks the reservation holder's available time. Specifically, for the reservation where an overlap is found, the server retrieves the available time of the existing reservation holder from the database. The input is the information of the existing reservation holder, and the output is data regarding the available time. This makes it possible to check whether the existing reservation holder can change the reservation to another time.

[1383] Step 6:

[1384] The server then sends a request to change the reservation to the existing customer via email or messaging app, offering a reward (e.g., a discount coupon). The input is the existing customer's contact information and the proposed change date and time, and the output is the sent request to change the reservation and the offered reward. This allows the existing customer to respond appropriately.

[1385] Step 7:

[1386] The terminal collects the customer's response. Existing reservation holders respond to the reservation change request through the terminal. For example, a smartphone notification displays the options of "change" or "don't change." The input is the customer's response to the reservation change request, and the output is that response data. This makes it possible to adjust the reservation schedule to reflect the customer's wishes.

[1387] Step 8:

[1388] The server updates the reservation schedule. Based on the customer's response, it determines a new reservation schedule and updates the database. The input is the customer's response and existing reservation information, and the output is the updated reservation schedule. This keeps the reservation information up to date in real time.

[1389] Step 9:

[1390] The server sends a reservation confirmation notification to all parties involved. Based on the updated reservation schedule, notifications are sent to the parties involved (e.g., customers and businesses) via email or messaging app. The input is the updated reservation information and contact information of the parties involved, and the output is the sent reservation confirmation notification. This allows all parties involved to keep track of the latest reservation information.

[1391] (Application example 1)

[1392] Next, a description will be given of Application Example 1. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as a "server" and the robot 414 will be referred to as a "terminal."

[1393] In conventional reservation management systems, adjustments when overlapping reservations occur are often done manually, which not only takes time and effort but also leads to lower customer satisfaction. Furthermore, if a reservation change request is not handled skillfully, it can cause customer dissatisfaction. Another issue is that there are few ways for customers to easily check their reservation status and respond smoothly.

[1394] The specific processing by the specific processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in the application example 1 is realized by the following means.

[1395] In this invention, the server includes a means for acquiring reservation information from the business, a means for storing information on the customer's past reservation history and available time in a database, and a means for providing an interface for inputting new reservations. This allows the business to efficiently manage reservation information, and also enables customers to smoothly respond by easily checking the reservation status.

[1396] "Business reservation information" refers to information obtained by a business from a customer, including the date and time of the reservation, the name of the person making the reservation, contact information, and the details of the reservation.

[1397] "Past reservation history of a customer" refers to historical information such as the date and time of reservations made by the customer in the past, and the details of the services.

[1398] "Information about availability of time" is information about the time slots available to the customer in consideration of other reservations and personal plans.

[1399] A "database" is a system or software for efficiently storing, retrieving, and managing information.

[1400] An "interface" is a software or hardware component that provides a means for a user to access a system and input or obtain information.

[1401] "Receiving reservation information" is the process by which the reservation system receives and stores information about a new or existing reservation on the server.

[1402] A "means for checking for overlaps" is an algorithm or process for determining whether new reservations overlap in time with existing reservations.

[1403] The "means for determining priority" is an algorithm or process that sets priorities taking into account factors such as the customer's available time in order to eliminate overlapping reservations.

[1404] The "means for sending a reservation change request" is a process for sending a notification to a customer requesting a change to their reservation in order to resolve the overlapping reservation.

[1405] "Offering means" is the process of offering discounts, coupons, and other offers to customers to encourage them to change their reservations.

[1406] The "means for receiving a response from a customer" is a process for receiving and processing a customer's response to a reservation change request.

[1407] The "means for updating reservation schedules" is a process for updating the start time and date of reservations based on the received customer response.

[1408] The "means for sending a notification of confirmed reservation" is a notification that sends new reservation information to all parties for confirmation.

[1409] An "automated notification system" is a system that quickly and accurately notifies relevant parties of new or changed reservation information.

[1410] A "natural language processing engine" is a software technology that understands human language and processes it appropriately in the context of voice and text.

[1411] The AI ​​reservation concierge system based on this invention is a system that realizes optimal reservation management through communication between servers, terminals, and users in order to streamline reservation adjustment work for businesses. This system uses the following means.

[1412] The server is equipped with an API linkage means for linking with the business operator's reservation system and obtaining reservation information in real time. This means that all reservation information held by the business operator (such as reserved time slots, names of people who made reservations, contact information, etc.) can be accurately grasped.

[1413] The server then has a database to manage customer information, including contact details, past booking history, and availability. It is recommended to use commercial database software such as MongoDB for this database.

[1414] The interface for entering new reservations is provided via devices (smartphones, tablets, PCs, etc.). Customers can use a reservation website or app to enter the desired date and time, service details, and contact information, and then submit the reservation information. Input via voice recognition is also possible, and this process uses OpenAI GPT-4 as a natural language processing engine.

[1415] The new reservation information is received by the server. The server temporarily stores the newly received reservation information in a database and checks for overlaps with existing reservation information. If there are overlaps, the server determines the priority based on the customer's time availability and decides whether to change the reservation.

[1416] If a conflict is detected, the server sends a rescheduling request to customers who have time to spare. This request is sent using Firebase Cloud Messaging (FCM). The notification includes a special offer, such as a 5% discount coupon, to encourage customers to reschedule.

[1417] Customers receive a reservation change request via their smartphone or other device and respond by choosing "change" or "don't change." If the response is "change," the server updates the reservation schedule and notifies all parties of the updated information. This notification system uses an automated notification system.

[1418] As a concrete example, let's say you want to make an appointment at Hair Salon A on December 10th at 2:00 PM. If there is already a reservation for that time slot, the customer will be prompted with the following prompt: "Would you like to change your appointment to December 10th at 3:00 PM? Please answer yes or no." If the customer answers "yes," the appointment will be rescheduled and the updated information will be notified to all parties involved.

[1419] In this way, the system of the present invention significantly reduces the time and effort required for business operators to adjust reservations, making it possible to improve customer satisfaction and prevent opportunity loss.

[1420] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

[1421] Step 1:

[1422] The server connects to the operator's reservation system via API and obtains reservation information in real time. In this process, information such as the reserved time slot, the name of the person making the reservation, and contact information is obtained and saved in a database. The input is the reservation information from the operator's reservation system, and the output is the reservation information saved in the server's database.

[1423] Step 2:

[1424] The server stores the customer's name, contact details, past booking history, and availability information in a database. This process efficiently manages the information obtained from the customer. The input is the customer's information, and the output is the customer data stored in the database.

[1425] Step 3:

[1426] The terminal provides an interface for entering new reservations. Customers use this interface to enter the desired date and time, service details, and contact information, and then submit the reservation. The input is the reservation information entered by the customer, and the output is the submitted reservation information. Specifically, the user fills out a form on a website or app and presses the submit button.

[1427] Step 4:

[1428] The server receives the new reservation information and temporarily stores it in a database. It then compares it with existing reservation information to check for duplicates. The input is the new reservation information, and the output is the result of checking whether there are any duplicates. In concrete terms, the moment the server receives new reservation information, it automatically starts comparing it with the database.

[1429] Step 5:

[1430] If a duplicate is detected, the server determines the priority based on the customer's time availability. In this process, the server obtains time availability information from the database and determines the priority using an algorithm. The input is the customer's time availability information, and the output is the result of the priority determination. Specifically, the server queries the customer's time availability information and calculates the priority.

[1431] Step 6:

[1432] After determining the priority, the server requests customers who have time to reschedule. This request also includes a special offer, such as a 5% discount coupon. Firebase Cloud Messaging (FCM) is used for notifications. The input is the priority determination result, and the output is the sent notification. Specifically, the server automatically generates a reservation change notification and sends it via FCM.

[1433] Step 7:

[1434] The customer receives a reservation change request through their device and responds by selecting "Change" or "Don't change." The input is the notification sent from the server, and the output is the customer's response. Specifically, the notification is displayed on the device, and the customer taps an option to respond.

[1435] Step 8:

[1436] The server receives the customer's response and updates the reservation schedule. In this process, the reservation date, time, and details are updated and reflected in the reservation systems of all related businesses. The input is the customer's response, and the output is the updated reservation information. Specifically, the server updates the database and reflects the changes in the business's systems via API.

[1437] Step 9:

[1438] The server notifies all parties of the updated reservation information. This notification includes information about the new reservation date and time and any special offers. The input is the updated reservation information, and the output is the notification sent to the parties. Specifically, the server generates a confirmation notification and automatically sends it to the parties.

[1439] Through these steps, the AI ​​reservation concierge system will be operated efficiently, improving convenience for businesses and customers.

[1440] Furthermore, an emotion engine that estimates the user's emotion may be further combined. That is, the identification processing unit 290 may estimate the user's emotion using the emotion identification model 59, and perform identification processing using the user's emotion.

[1441] The AI ​​reservation concierge system based on this invention incorporates an emotion engine that recognizes user emotions and responds appropriately based on them to streamline reservation adjustment work for businesses. This system achieves optimal reservation management and improved customer satisfaction through communication between the server, terminals, and users, as well as the emotion engine.

[1442] First, the system provides a means for collecting reservation information from businesses. The server connects to the business's reservation system and obtains reservation information in real time. This information includes the reserved time slot, the name of the person making the reservation, contact information, and other information, and is stored in the server's database. Information about customers' past reservation history and available time is also stored in the database, making it possible to manage detailed information for each customer.

[1443] The terminal provides an interface for users (customers) to input new reservations. The user inputs the desired date and time, service details, and contact information, and then presses the send button. The submitted new reservation information is received by the server and temporarily stored in a database. The server then verifies the new reservation information against existing reservation information to check for duplicates.

[1444] If a new reservation overlaps with an existing reservation, the server checks the customer's availability and determines the priority of each customer to which the overlapping reservation belongs.The server then sends a reservation change request to customers who have time to spare.The emotion engine is utilized in this process.

[1445] The emotion engine analyzes past customer response data, learns customer emotional patterns, and infers emotions based on real-time customer responses. For example, it predicts how a customer will feel about a change request based on their responses to past change requests. It also detects emotions from the content and wording of real-time responses, and adjusts message content and bonus offerings based on the results.

[1446] Specifically, when the server sends a reservation change request, the emotion engine analyzes the customer's emotion data and generates an appropriate message based on that data. This message can increase the likelihood that the customer will accept the change request by including expressions that are easy for the customer to accept, such as discount coupons or special service offers.

[1447] The terminal displays a notification of the change request to the customer who received the reservation change request. The change request notification includes a flexible message based on the analysis results of the emotion engine, so it takes into account the customer's emotions. The customer selects an option such as "change" or "don't change," and the response is sent to the server.

[1448] The server receives the customer's response and updates the reservation schedule. If the customer agrees to the reservation change, the server confirms the change, saves it in the database, and reflects it in the operator's reservation system.

[1449] Finally, the server sends a confirmation of the reservation to all parties, including information about the new reservation date and time and special offers, making the status of the reservation clear to both the customer and the business.

[1450] Specific examples

[1451] scenario

[1452] At beauty salon A, A already has a reservation for 14:00 on December 10th, and B also wants to make a reservation for the same time on the same day. Furthermore, A's response to past requests to change the reservation indicates that she does not particularly like changing the reservation.

[1453] 1. Collection of reservation information

[1454] The server retrieves Mr. A's reservation information for December 10th at 2:00 p.m. from Beauty Salon A's reservation system and saves it in the database.

[1455] 2. Enter a new reservation

[1456] The terminal provides an interface for Person B to enter a new reservation for 14:00 on December 10. Person B enters the desired date and time and contact information, and presses the send button.

[1457] 3. Receiving new reservations

[1458] The server receives Mr. B's new reservation information and stores it in the database.

[1459] 4. Check for duplicate reservations

[1460] The server confirms that the new reservation information overlaps with Mr. A's existing reservation.

[1461] 5. Check customer availability and sentiment

[1462] The server retrieves Mr. A's available time (for example, December 10th, 13:00-17:00) from the database, and then analyzes Mr. A's past response data using an emotion engine to evaluate his / her feelings regarding the reservation change.

[1463] 6. Requesting a change to your reservation

[1464] The server sends a flexible message based on the emotion engine to Mr. A via email: "Could you change your reservation to December 10th at 3:00 PM? If you do, we will offer you a 5% discount coupon."

[1465] 7. Collecting Customer Responses

[1466] The terminal provides an interface for A to respond to the email, and A selects "Yes."

[1467] 8. Updating your reservation schedule

[1468] The server changes A's reservation to December 10th at 15:00, and confirms B's reservation to December 10th at 14:00. This information is reflected in Beauty Salon A's reservation system.

[1469] 9. Sending confirmation notices

[1470] The server sends a reservation confirmation notification to Mr. A, Mr. B, and salon A.

[1471] This system reduces the effort required for operators to arrange reservations and enables them to respond in a way that takes into consideration customer feelings, thereby improving customer satisfaction.

[1472] The processing flow will be explained below.

[1473] Step 1:

[1474] The server accesses the operator's reservation system API to obtain the latest reservation information (e.g., reserved time slot, name of the person making the reservation, contact information, etc.). This information is stored in the server's database.

[1475] Step 2:

[1476] The server stores customer contact information, past booking history, and availability information in a database, ensuring that detailed information about each customer is always available.

[1477] Step 3:

[1478] The terminal provides an interface for users (customers) to enter new reservations. The user inputs the desired date and time, service details, and contact information, and then presses the send button.

[1479] Step 4:

[1480] The server receives the new reservation information sent from the terminal and temporarily stores the received information in the server's database.

[1481] Step 5:

[1482] The server checks whether there are any overlaps between the new reservation and existing reservations, and if there are any overlaps between the new reservation and existing reservations, it lists the overlaps.

[1483] Step 6:

[1484] The server checks the availability of time for each customer to which the overlapping reservations belong based on the overlapping reservation information, and sets a criterion for determining priority.

[1485] Step 7:

[1486] The server analyzes past response data of customers using an emotion engine to learn customer emotion patterns, and includes a means for estimating emotions based on real-time responses.

[1487] Step 8:

[1488] The server sends a reservation change request based on the result of the emotion engine. The request is sent via email or chat, and a special offer (e.g., a discount coupon) is offered. The emotion engine adjusts the request and the special offer based on the customer's emotions.

[1489] Step 9:

[1490] The terminal provides an interface to customers who have received a reservation change request, displaying a notification of the change request, and the customer can choose to "change" or "not change."

[1491] Step 10:

[1492] The server receives the customer's response from the terminal and updates the reservation schedule according to the response. If the customer selects "Change," the changed reservation is confirmed.

[1493] Step 11:

[1494] The server saves the updated reservation information in a database and also reflects it in the reservation systems of all parties involved, i.e., other reservation participants and businesses.

[1495] Step 12:

[1496] The server will then send a confirmation of the booking to all parties via email and chat, including the new booking date and time and any special offers that may be offered.

[1497] Specific examples

[1498] Step 1:

[1499] The server retrieves Mr. A's reservation information for December 10th at 2:00 PM from Beauty Salon A's reservation system and stores it in the database.

[1500] Step 2:

[1501] The server stores in a database Mr. A's contact information, past reservation history, and information about his available time between 13:00 and 17:00 on December 10th.

[1502] Step 3:

[1503] The terminal provides an interface for Person B to enter a new reservation on the beauty salon's website for 2:00 PM on December 10. Person B enters the desired date and time and contact information, and presses the send button.

[1504] Step 4:

[1505] The server receives Mr. B's new reservation information and stores it in the database.

[1506] Step 5:

[1507] The server verifies that the new reservation information overlaps with Mr. A's existing reservation.

[1508] Step 6:

[1509] The server checks Mr. A's time availability and determines the priority for resolving duplicates.

[1510] Step 7:

[1511] The server uses an emotion engine to analyze A's past response data, learn A's emotional patterns, and estimate emotions based on real-time responses.

[1512] Step 8:

[1513] Based on the analysis results of the emotion engine, the server sends a flexible message to Mr. A via email saying, "Could you change it to 3:00 PM on December 10th? If you do, we will give you a 5% discount coupon."

[1514] Step 9:

[1515] The terminal provides an interface for A to respond to the email, and A selects "Yes."

[1516] Step 10:

[1517] The server changes A's reservation to December 10th at 15:00, and confirms B's reservation to December 10th at 14:00. This information is reflected in Beauty Salon A's reservation system.

[1518] Step 11:

[1519] The server sends a reservation confirmation notification to Mr. A, Mr. B, and salon A.

[1520] The system, which incorporates an emotion engine, allows operators to reduce the effort required for scheduling reservations and achieve improved customer satisfaction.

[1521] Example 2

[1522] Next, a description will be given of Example 2. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as a "server" and the robot 414 will be referred to as a "terminal."

[1523] Conventional reservation management systems have had problems with inadequate customer service when overlapping reservations occur, and in particular, a lack of consideration for customer feelings leads to a decline in customer satisfaction. Another issue is the lack of a means to efficiently adjust reservations, which places a heavy burden on operators.

[1524] The specific processing by the specific processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in the second embodiment is realized by the following means.

[1525] In this invention, the server includes means for acquiring reservation information from the business operator, means for storing information about a customer's past reservation history and available time in a database, means for providing an interface for inputting a new reservation, means for receiving new reservation information and comparing it with existing reservations to check for overlaps, means for determining priorities to resolve overlaps if there are any, means for sending a reservation change request to the customer and offering a special offer, means for receiving a response from the customer and updating the reservation schedule, means for sending a reservation confirmation notification to all parties involved, and means for estimating the customer's emotions and adjusting the change request message based on the estimation, thereby enabling more efficient reservation adjustments and improved customer satisfaction.

[1526] The "means for acquiring reservation information from businesses" refers to a means for linking with a business's reservation system and acquiring reservation information in real time.

[1527] The "means for storing information on a customer's past reservation history and available time in a database" refers to a means for recording and storing details of reservations made by a customer in the past and available reservation time slots in a database.

[1528] The "means for providing an interface for inputting a new reservation" refers to a means for providing a screen or form for a user to input new reservation information.

[1529] The "means for receiving new reservation information and checking for overlaps by comparing it with existing reservations" is a means for receiving newly entered reservation information and checking whether it overlaps with existing reservation information.

[1530] The "means for determining priorities to resolve overlapping reservations when there are overlapping reservations" refers to a means for determining which reservation should have priority when there are overlapping reservations.

[1531] The "means for sending a reservation change request to a customer and offering a special benefit" is a means for requesting a customer to change an overlapping reservation and offering an incentive for accepting the change.

[1532] The "means for receiving a response from a customer and updating the reservation schedule" is a means for receiving a response from a customer to a reservation change and updating the reservation schedule based on the content of the response.

[1533] The "means for sending a notification of confirmed reservation to all parties involved" is a means for finalizing the reservation schedule and notifying all parties involved of that information.

[1534] "Means for estimating customer sentiment and adjusting change request messages based on that sentiment" refers to means for analyzing and estimating customer sentiment, and generating and sending appropriate messages based on the results.

[1535] The reservation management system based on this invention efficiently manages reservation information for businesses and improves customer satisfaction. This system achieves optimal reservation management by utilizing communication between servers, terminals, and users, as well as an emotion engine. It is also novel in that the emotion engine estimates customer emotions and enables responses based on those estimates.

[1536] First, the system includes a means for collecting reservation information from businesses. The server connects to the business's reservation system and obtains reservation information in real time. This information includes information such as the reserved time slot, the name of the person making the reservation, and contact information. This information is stored in the server's database. Information about the customer's past reservation history and available time is also stored in the database, making it possible to manage detailed information for each customer.

[1537] Next, the terminal provides an interface for the user (customer) to input a new reservation. The user inputs the desired date and time, service details, and contact information, and presses the send button. The submitted new reservation information is received by the server and temporarily stored in a database. The server then verifies the new reservation information against existing reservation information to check for any overlaps.

[1538] If a new reservation overlaps with an existing reservation, the server checks the customer's available time and determines the priority for each customer to which the overlapping reservation belongs.The server then sends a reservation change request to the customer to resolve the overlap.At this time, the emotion engine is utilized.The emotion engine analyzes the customer's past response data, learns the customer's emotional patterns, and estimates the customer's emotions based on the real-time response content.

[1539] For example, the system predicts how a customer will feel about a change request based on their responses to past change requests. It can detect emotions in real time from the content of the response and the language used, and adjust the content of the message and special offers based on the results. Specifically, when the server sends a reservation change request, the emotion engine analyzes the customer's emotional data and generates an appropriate message based on that data. This message can increase the likelihood that the customer will accept the change request by using language that is easy for the customer to accept and by including suggestions for discount coupons or special services, for example.

[1540] The terminal displays a notification of the change request to the customer who received the reservation change request. The change request notification includes a flexible message based on the analysis results of the emotion engine, so it takes into account the customer's emotions. The customer selects an option such as "change" or "don't change," and the response is sent to the server.

[1541] The server receives the customer's response and updates the reservation schedule. If the customer agrees to the reservation change, the server confirms the change and saves it in the database, while also updating the operator's reservation system. Finally, the server sends a confirmation of the reservation to all parties involved. The notification includes information about the new reservation date and time and special offers, clarifying the status of the reservation for both the customer and the operator.

[1542] Specific examples

[1543] For example, consider a situation where Person A already has a reservation at a beauty salon for 14:00 on December 10th, and Person B also wants to make a reservation for the same date and time. Person A's response to a past request to change the reservation indicates that he or she has negative feelings about changing the reservation.

[1544] 1. Collection of reservation information

[1545] The server retrieves Mr. A's reservation information for December 10th at 2:00 p.m. from the beauty salon's reservation system and saves it in the database.

[1546] 2. Enter a new reservation

[1547] The terminal provides an interface for Person B to enter a new reservation for 14:00 on December 10. Person B enters the desired date and time and contact information, and presses the send button.

[1548] 3. Receiving new reservations

[1549] The server receives Mr. B's new reservation information and stores it in the database.

[1550] 4. Check for duplicate reservations

[1551] The server confirms that the new reservation information overlaps with Mr. A's existing reservation.

[1552] 5. Check customer availability and sentiment

[1553] The server retrieves Mr. A's available time (for example, December 10th, 13:00-17:00) from the database, and then analyzes Mr. A's past response data using an emotion engine to evaluate his / her feelings regarding the reservation change.

[1554] 6. Requesting a change to your reservation

[1555] The server sends a flexible message based on the emotion engine to Mr. A via email: "Could you change your reservation to December 10th at 3:00 PM? If you do, we will offer you a 5% discount coupon."

[1556] 7. Collecting Customer Responses

[1557] The terminal provides an interface for A to respond to the email, and A selects "Yes."

[1558] 8. Updating your reservation schedule

[1559] The server changes A's reservation to December 10th at 15:00, and confirms B's reservation to December 10th at 14:00. This information is then reflected in the beauty salon's reservation system.

[1560] 9. Sending confirmation notices

[1561] The server sends a confirmation notification to A, B, and the hair salon, including the new reservation date and time and a discount coupon.

[1562] This system reduces the effort required for operators to arrange reservations and enables them to respond in a way that takes into consideration customer feelings, thereby improving customer satisfaction.

[1563] Example prompts to input to the generative AI model

[1564] "If the appointment at the beauty salon on December 10th at 2:00 PM has already been booked by another customer, how should we suggest to customer B who wishes to make a new appointment? Also, please suggest the optimal message to send when requesting a change of appointment, taking into account customer A's feelings."

[1565] The flow of the identification process in the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[1566] Step 1:

[1567] Collection of reservation information

[1568] The server works with the business's reservation system to obtain reservation information in real time. At this time, the server sends an API request to the business's reservation system to obtain information such as the reserved time slot, the name of the person making the reservation, and contact information. The obtained information is saved in the server's database. This data processing allows the server to maintain the latest reservation information.

[1569] Input: Reservation information obtained via API request from the business's reservation system

[1570] Output: Latest reservation information stored in the database

[1571] Specific operation: The server periodically sends an API request to update reservation information.

[1572] Step 2:

[1573] Enter a new reservation

[1574] The terminal provides an interface for users to enter new reservations. The user enters the desired date and time, service details, and contact information into the terminal's input form and presses the send button. The entered information is temporarily saved on the terminal.

[1575] Input: Desired date and time, service details, and contact information entered by the user

[1576] Output: New reservation information temporarily saved on the device

[1577] Specific behavior: The device provides an input form and a calendar widget and accepts user input.

[1578] Step 3:

[1579] Receive new bookings

[1580] The server receives the new reservation information sent from the terminal and stores the new reservation information (desired date and time, service details, contact information) in a database.

[1581] Input: New reservation information sent from the terminal

[1582] Output: New reservation information temporarily saved in the database

[1583] Specific operation: The server receives an HTTP POST request from the terminal and saves the reservation information in a database.

[1584] Step 4:

[1585] Check for duplicate reservations

[1586] The server checks the new reservation information against existing reservation information in the database to see if there are any overlaps. It also compares the desired date and time of the new reservation information with the date and time of the existing reservation information and sets a flag if there are any overlaps.

[1587] Input: Existing reservations in the database and new reservations

[1588] Output: Flag for duplicates

[1589] What happens: The server runs a database query to see if the new reservation information overlaps with an existing reservation.

[1590] Step 5:

[1591] Checking customer availability and sentiment

[1592] The server retrieves the customer's time leeway for overlapping reservations from the database, and uses an emotion engine to analyze the customer's past response data and evaluate their emotion regarding the reservation change.

[1593] Input: Customer time availability in the database, past response data of the emotion engine

[1594] Output: Customer's time availability and emotional assessment

[1595] Specific operation: The server executes a database query and utilizes the emotion engine API to evaluate the customer's emotion.

[1596] Step 6:

[1597] Requesting a change of reservation

[1598] The server generates an appropriate message for the customer based on the analysis results of the emotion engine. For example, it creates a flexible message such as "Could you change your reservation to December 10th at 3:00 PM? If you do, we will offer you a 5% discount coupon." and sends it by email.

[1599] Input: Sentiment engine analysis results, customer time availability

[1600] Output: Generated reservation change request message, sent email

[1601] Specific operation: The server uses the email sending API to send emotion-based messages to customers.

[1602] Step 7:

[1603] Collecting customer responses

[1604] The terminal provides an interface for the customer to respond to the email. The options "Change" and "Don't change" are displayed, and if the customer selects "Change," the response is sent to the server.

[1605] Input: Customer's choice (change, don't change)

[1606] Output: Customer response sent to server

[1607] Specific operation: The device collects customer responses via links in emails or dedicated apps.

[1608] Step 8:

[1609] Update your reservation schedule

[1610] The server receives the customer's response and updates the reservation schedule. If the customer agrees to the reservation change, the server saves the change information in the database and reflects it in the operator's reservation system.

[1611] Input: Customer response

[1612] Output: Upd...

Claims

1. A means for obtaining reservation information of a business; means for storing information about the customer's past booking history and availability in a database; means for providing an interface for entering new reservations; A means for receiving new booking information and checking it against existing bookings to check for duplicates; A means for determining priorities for resolving overlapping reservations when there are overlapping reservations; a means for sending a rebooking request to a customer and offering a special offer; a means for receiving responses from the customer and updating the appointment schedule; a means for sending a confirmation of the booking to all parties; A system including:

2. 2. The system according to claim 1, wherein the means for determining priority for resolving overlapping reservations is set according to the time availability of the customer.

3. 2. The system according to claim 1, wherein the means for sending the reservation change request is via email or chat.

Citation Information

Patent Citations

  • Persona chatbot control method and system

    JP2022180282A