System
The system addresses the challenge of unclear data analysis by displaying processes in flowcharts, generating nodes based on user questions, and enabling data sharing, thereby enhancing problem-solving efficiency and teamwork.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- JP2024119067
- Authority / Receiving Office
- JP · JP
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2024-07-24
- Publication Date
- 2026-02-05
AI Technical Summary
Existing data analysis methods lack the ability to clearly define issues before analysis, leading to unnecessary analysis and difficulty in identifying root causes, which hinders efficient decision-making and teamwork.
A system that displays the analytical process in flowchart form, records data and inferences at each step, generates initial and new nodes based on user questions, and allows sharing of flowcharts and data among project members.
Facilitates efficient identification of root causes and promotes teamwork by clarifying issues before data analysis, reducing unnecessary efforts and improving decision-making.
Smart Images

Figure 2026018006000001_ABST
Abstract
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] In today's data-driven society, opportunities for data analysis to solve problems are increasing, but because the issues to be resolved are not clearly defined before the analysis, unnecessary analysis is often conducted, and there are many cases where additional analysis is required after meetings. In such situations, there is a need for methods and systems that can identify the root causes of problems before data analysis, support efficient decision-making, and promote teamwork. [Means for solving the problem]
[0005] The present invention provides a means for displaying the analytical process in flowchart form and a means for recording data and inferences at each step. It also provides a means for generating an initial node based on an initial question entered by the user, and displays the generated flowchart to the user. When the user enters a new "why" question, it provides a means for generating a new node based on that question and updating the flowchart. Furthermore, it also provides a means for sharing flowcharts and related data with project members through a sharing function, facilitating the exchange of opinions within the team.
[0006] Specifically, the server has a means for the user to enter login information, and if the authentication is successful, the main screen of the analysis tool is displayed. It also includes a means for the user to click an import button to send data to the server, and a means for the server to analyze the received data and update the corresponding node in the flowchart. This provides a system that displays the analysis results to the user and supports the problem-solving process.
[0007] An "analytical process" is a series of steps that collect, organize, and analyze data to derive meaningful information.
[0008] A "flowchart format" is a format that visually represents steps and processes using shapes and arrows.
[0009] "Data" is the expression of facts and observed phenomena using numbers and symbols, and is information that forms the basis for analysis and inference.
[0010] "Inference" is the thought process of deriving new conclusions or hypotheses based on known facts and data.
[0011] "Users" are individuals or organizations such as data analysis experts, business analysts, and project managers who use this system.
[0012] An "initial question" is a fundamental question that serves as the starting point for the problem-solving process and provides a springboard for digging deeper.
[0013] An "initial node" is the first point or node in a flowchart that corresponds to an initial question.
[0014] A "new why question" is an additional question that explores the causes of an existing question in more depth.
[0015] A "new node" is a new point or node on the flowchart that corresponds to the added "why" question.
[0016] The "sharing function" is a system function that allows project members to share flowcharts and related data.
[0017] "Project members" are multiple users who participate in a specific project and work together.
[0018] An "import button" is a button that a user clicks to import an external file into the system.
[0019] "Data File" means a collection of data stored in digital form and used for analysis and display.
[0020] "Analysis" is the process of breaking down data and finding meaning and patterns.
[0021] "Authentication" is the process of verifying that a user is a legitimate user.
[0022] The "main screen" is the main operation screen that is displayed first after the user logs in.
[0023] A "server" is a computer system that stores and processes data over a network.
[0024] A "terminal" is a device through which a user connects to a server and performs operations. [Brief explanation of the drawings]
[0025] [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
[0026] 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.
[0027] First, the terms used in the following description will be explained.
[0028] 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).
[0029] 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.
[0030] 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.
[0031] 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.
[0032] 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."
[0033] [First embodiment]
[0034] FIG. 1 shows an example of the configuration of a data processing system 10 according to the first embodiment.
[0035] 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.
[0036] 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).
[0037] 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.
[0038] 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.
[0039] 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.
[0040] 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.
[0041] FIG. 2 shows an example of the main functions of the data processing device 12 and the smart device 14.
[0042] 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.
[0043] 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.
[0044] 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.
[0045] 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."
[0046] This invention relates to a "Why-Why Analysis Tool" that uses "Why-Why Analysis" to identify the root cause of a problem during data analysis, and supports efficient decision-making and the promotion of teamwork. This system displays the analysis process in a flowchart format and can record data and inferences at each step.
[0047] The basic structure of the system consists of a server, a terminal, and a user, which work together. The server stores, authenticates, and analyzes data, while the terminal sends information entered by the user to the server and receives and displays the results. The user enters various data and performs operations to advance the analysis.
[0048] 1. Login and authentication process:
[0049] - A user accesses the system through a browser and enters login information (user name and password), which is then sent to the server.
[0050] - The server checks the entered authentication information against the database, and if authentication is successful, it prompts the user to display the main screen of the analysis tool. If authentication fails, it returns an error message to the terminal.
[0051] 2. Entering initial questions and generating a flowchart:
[0052] - The user clicks the "New Analysis" button and enters an initial question, which the device sends to the server.
[0053] - The server saves the input initial question in a database, generates an initial node, and returns it to the terminal. The terminal displays the initial question in a flowchart format.
[0054] 3. Enter new "why" questions and update the flowchart:
[0055] - The user clicks on a particular node and enters a new "why" question, which the device sends to the server.
[0056] - The server saves the new "why" question in the database, creates a new node and updates its position on the flowchart, and sends the updated flowchart to the device for display to the user.
[0057] 4. Data import and analysis:
[0058] - The user clicks the button to import data and selects the file, and the terminal sends the selected data file to the server.
[0059] - The server analyzes the received data, extracts information related to the problem, and stores it in a database. Based on the analysis results, it updates the relevant node in the flowchart and returns a response to the terminal. The terminal then displays the analysis results in the node, allowing the user to check the details.
[0060] 5. Use of Collaboration Features:
[0061] - The user clicks the "Share" button and selects project members. The device sends a share request to the server.
[0062] - The server will send a notification to the selected members to share the flowchart and related data. When the sharing member logs in, the shared flowchart and related data will be displayed on the device, and the member can add or modify their comments.
[0063] As a concrete example, consider a case where a user is trying to find the cause of declining sales. The user enters the initial question, "Why are sales declining?", and a corresponding flowchart is generated. Next, the user adds a probing question, such as "Why is marketing effectiveness low?", and updates the flowchart. Furthermore, marketing data is imported, and the server displays the relevant analysis results in the flowchart. This allows the user to identify the root cause of the problem and find an efficient solution.
[0064] As described above, the present invention is a system that supports efficient decision-making and promotes teamwork by clarifying the issues to be resolved prior to data analysis and eliminating unnecessary analysis.
[0065] The processing flow will be explained below.
[0066] Login and Authentication Process
[0067] Step 1:
[0068] A user opens a browser and enters a URL to access the 5 Why Analysis Tool.
[0069] Step 2:
[0070] The device displays an authentication screen and provides a form for entering a username and password.
[0071] Step 3:
[0072] The user enters their authentication information and clicks the Login button.
[0073] Step 4:
[0074] The terminal transmits the entered authentication information to the server.
[0075] Step 5:
[0076] The server checks the received authentication information against a database and generates a result of authentication success or failure.
[0077] Step 6:
[0078] The server returns the authentication result to the terminal.
[0079] Step 7:
[0080] If the device is successfully authenticated, the main screen of the analysis tool is displayed. If authentication fails, an error message is displayed.
[0081] Entering initial questions and generating flowcharts
[0082] Step 1:
[0083] The user clicks the "New Analysis" button.
[0084] Step 2:
[0085] The terminal displays a form for entering initial questions.
[0086] Step 3:
[0087] The user enters an initial question and clicks the submit button.
[0088] Step 4:
[0089] The terminal transmits the input initial question to the server.
[0090] Step 5:
[0091] The server stores the received initial question in a database.
[0092] Step 6:
[0093] The server generates an initial node from the initial question and returns it to the terminal.
[0094] Step 7:
[0095] The initial node received by the terminal is displayed as the initial node in the flowchart.
[0096] Enter new "why" questions and update the flowchart
[0097] Step 1:
[0098] The user clicks on the node they want to add (e.g., the initial question node).
[0099] Step 2:
[0100] The device will display a form for you to enter a new "why" question.
[0101] Step 3:
[0102] The user enters a new "why" question and clicks the submit button.
[0103] Step 4:
[0104] The device sends the entered "why" question to the server.
[0105] Step 5:
[0106] The server stores the received "why" questions in a database and generates related nodes.
[0107] Step 6:
[0108] The server returns the updated flowchart to the terminal.
[0109] Step 7:
[0110] The terminal displays the updated flowchart and adds a new "Why" node.
[0111] Data import and analysis
[0112] Step 1:
[0113] User clicks the data import button.
[0114] Step 2:
[0115] The terminal displays a file selection dialog.
[0116] Step 3:
[0117] The user selects the file to import and clicks the submit button.
[0118] Step 4:
[0119] The terminal transmits the selected data file to the server.
[0120] Step 5:
[0121] The server parses the received data file and extracts information relevant to the problem.
[0122] Step 6:
[0123] The server stores the extracted data in a database and updates the corresponding node in the flowchart.
[0124] Step 7:
[0125] The server returns the analysis results to the terminal.
[0126] Step 8:
[0127] The terminal displays the analysis results at the relevant node in the flowchart, allowing the user to check the details.
[0128] Use of collaboration features
[0129] Step 1:
[0130] The user clicks the Share button.
[0131] Step 2:
[0132] The device displays a screen for selecting members to share with.
[0133] Step 3:
[0134] The user enters the email address of the member with whom the user wants to share and clicks the send button.
[0135] Step 4:
[0136] The device sends a share request to the server.
[0137] Step 5:
[0138] The server processes the received request and sends notifications to the selected members.
[0139] Step 6:
[0140] The server grants shared access and provides shared data to members.
[0141] Step 7:
[0142] When the shared member logs in, the device displays the shared flowchart and related data.
[0143] Step 8:
[0144] Members can review the shared data and add their opinions.
[0145] Example 1
[0146] 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."
[0147] There is a lack of efficient methods for identifying the root causes of problems in data analysis. Furthermore, collaboration between teams is often difficult, preventing smooth sharing of information and exchange of opinions. This results in delayed decision-making and wasted effort and time.
[0148] 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.
[0149] In this invention, the server includes a means for generating an initial node based on an initial question entered by a user, a means for analyzing data imported by a user and updating the corresponding node in the flowchart, and a means for sharing the flowchart and related data with project members through a sharing function, thereby enabling efficient identification of the root cause of problems and effective collaboration among users.
[0150] "Means for displaying in a flowchart format" refers to a display device and software for displaying information entered by a user in a visually easy-to-understand format.
[0151] "Means for recording data and inferences" refers to recording devices and software that store and enable reference to data entered by users and inferences automatically generated by the system.
[0152] "Means for generating an initial node" refers to a program and device for generating a node that serves as the starting point for analysis based on an initial question entered by a user and displaying it on a flowchart.
[0153] "Means for updating a flowchart" refers to a program and device that receives a new "why" question entered by a user, generates a new node based on that question, and adds or modifies an existing flowchart.
[0154] "Sharing Function" refers to the function that allows multiple users involved in a project to share flowcharts and related data and access and edit them in real time.
[0155] "Means for entering login information" refers to the input devices and interfaces through which users enter their usernames and passwords to authenticate themselves when accessing the system.
[0156] "Means for authentication" refers to a program and device that allows the server to check the user's login information against a database and confirm that the user is a legitimate user.
[0157] "Import Button" means an interface button that enables a User to select a data file from their device and upload it to the System.
[0158] "Means for analyzing data" refers to programs and devices for analyzing data files received by the server and extracting information relevant to solving the problem.
[0159] "Means for displaying the analysis results to the user" refers to a display device and software for transmitting the analysis results generated by the server to the user's terminal and displaying them in a visually easy-to-understand format.
[0160] This invention relates to a "5-Why Analysis Tool" that helps improve the efficiency of data analysis and identify the root causes of problems. This system works in cooperation with a server, terminals, and users, and displays the analysis process in a flowchart format, allowing data and inferences to be recorded at each step.
[0161] The basic configuration of the system is as follows:
[0162] 1. Server Functions
[0163] The server has the function of generating an initial node based on the initial question entered by the user. This initial question is saved in the database, and an initial node is generated and returned to the terminal. When the user enters a new "why" question, the server saves this question in the database, generates a new node, updates its position on the flowchart, and sends it back to the terminal. The server also has the function of analyzing the data imported by the user and updating the corresponding node in the flowchart based on the analysis results. As a result, the analysis results are displayed on the user's terminal.
[0164] 2. Device Features
[0165] The terminal is responsible for sending information entered by the user to the server and receiving and displaying responses from the server. When the user enters login information, the terminal sends this information to the server for authentication. If authentication is successful, the main screen of the analysis tool is displayed on the terminal. When the user enters an initial question or a new "why" question, the terminal sends this to the server and displays the generated flowchart. In addition, when the user imports data, the terminal sends the data to the server and receives and displays the analysis results.
[0166] 3. User Operation
[0167] Users access the system through a browser and enter their login information to log in. After logging in, users can click the "New Analysis" button to enter an initial question, and a flowchart will be generated. Users can also click on specific nodes to enter new "why" questions and update the flowchart. If data analysis is required, users can click the "Import Data" button, select the data file they want to analyze, and import it. The analysis results will then be reflected in the flowchart. They can also use the sharing function to share flowcharts and related data with project members and work together to solve problems.
[0168] Specific operation example
[0169] If a user wants to find the cause of declining sales, they enter an initial question: "Why are sales declining?" An initial node is generated based on this question, and a flowchart is displayed. Next, a new "why" question is added: "Why is marketing effectiveness low?" The flowchart is updated. The user then imports marketing data, and the server analyzes the data and extracts relevant information. Analysis results, such as "There is a lack of reach to the target demographic," are displayed in the flowchart, allowing the user to view the details.
[0170] Prompt Sentence Examples
[0171] For example, the following prompt sentence is used:
[0172] Start with an initial question: "Why are sales declining?", import your marketing data, and present the analysis results in a flowchart. Explain the reasons in detail.
[0173] The present invention allows users to efficiently identify the root cause of problems and make effective decisions, while the flow chart display and sharing capabilities promote teamwork.
[0174] The flow of the identification process in the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.
[0175] Processing step flow
[0176] Step 1: Login and Authentication
[0177] 1.1 The user opens the login page.
[0178] (Input) Access the login page in your browser.
[0179] (Output) The login page is displayed.
[0180] 1.2 The user enters their username and password and clicks the login button.
[0181] (Input) The user name and password are entered.
[0182] (Output) The input information is sent to the server.
[0183] 1.3 The terminal sends the user's input information to the server.
[0184] (Input) The transmission of input information by a terminal.
[0185] (Output) Authentication information is sent to the server.
[0186] 1.4 The server connects to the database and verifies the input information.
[0187] (Input) The server accesses the database to check the authentication information.
[0188] (Output) The authentication result (success / failure) is obtained.
[0189] 1.5 The server returns the authentication result to the terminal.
[0190] (Input) Authentication result sent from the server.
[0191] (Output) The authentication result will be displayed on the terminal. If successful, the main screen will be displayed, and if unsuccessful, an error message will be displayed.
[0192] Step 2: Enter initial questions and generate flowcharts
[0193] 2.1 User clicks the "New Analysis" button.
[0194] (Input) User click action.
[0195] (Output) The initial question input screen will be displayed.
[0196] 2.2 The user enters the initial question and clicks the submit button.
[0197] (Input) An initial question is entered.
[0198] (Output) The initial question is sent to the server.
[0199] 2.3 The device sends an initial question to the server.
[0200] (Input) Sending an initial question by the terminal.
[0201] (Output) An initial query is sent to the server.
[0202] 2.4 The server saves the initial question in the database and generates the initial node.
[0203] (Input) A request to the server to save the initial question.
[0204] (Output) Generate and save the initial node.
[0205] 2.5 The server returns the generated initial node to the terminal.
[0206] (Input) Sends initial node creation information.
[0207] (Output) The initial question node is displayed on the terminal.
[0208] 2.6 The terminal displays the initial questions in a flowchart format.
[0209] (Input) Initial node information from the server.
[0210] (Output) The initial questions are displayed in a flowchart format.
[0211] Step 3: Enter new "why" questions and update your flowchart
[0212] 3.1 The user clicks on a specific node.
[0213] (Input) User click action.
[0214] (Output) A screen for entering a new "why" question will appear.
[0215] 3.2 User enters a new "why" question and clicks submit.
[0216] (Input) A new "why" question is entered.
[0217] (Output) The new question is sent to the server.
[0218] 3.3 The device sends a new question to the server.
[0219] (Input) Submitting a question via the terminal.
[0220] (Output) A new question is sent to the server.
[0221] 3.4 The server saves the new question in the database, creates a new node and updates its position on the flowchart.
[0222] (Input) A request to the server to save the question.
[0223] (Output) New nodes are created and the flowchart is updated.
[0224] 3.5 The server returns the updated flowchart to the terminal.
[0225] (Input) Send update information.
[0226] (Output) The updated flowchart is sent to the terminal.
[0227] 3.6 The device displays the updated flowchart to the user.
[0228] (Input) Update information from the server.
[0229] (Output) The updated flowchart is displayed.
[0230] Step 4: Import and analyze data
[0231] 4.1 The user clicks the "Import Data" button.
[0232] (Input) User click action.
[0233] (Output) A file selection dialog will appear.
[0234] 4.2 User selects the file to import and clicks the Submit button.
[0235] The (input) data file is selected.
[0236] (Output) The file is sent to the server.
[0237] 4.3 The device sends the selected data file to the server.
[0238] (Input) Sending files via terminal.
[0239] (Output) The file is sent to the server.
[0240] 4.4 The server receives the data file and begins analysis.
[0241] (Input) Receives a file to the server.
[0242] (Output) Data analysis begins.
[0243] 4.5 The server updates the relevant node in the flowchart based on the analysis results and saves them in the database.
[0244] (Input) Generation of data analysis results.
[0245] (Output) Save the analysis results and update the flowchart.
[0246] 4.6 The server sends the updated flowchart and analysis results back to the device.
[0247] (Input) Send update information.
[0248] (Output) Analysis results and update information are sent to the terminal.
[0249] 4.7 The terminal displays the analysis results in the nodes of the flowchart.
[0250] (Input) Analysis result information from the server.
[0251] (Output) The analysis results are displayed in the nodes of the flowchart.
[0252] Step 5: Use collaboration features
[0253] 5.1 User clicks the "Share" button.
[0254] (Input) User click action.
[0255] (Output) The sharing member selection screen will be displayed.
[0256] 5.2 The user selects the project members with whom they want to share and clicks the send button.
[0257] (Input) Selection of project members.
[0258] (Output) A share request is sent to the server.
[0259] 5.3 The device sends a share request to the server.
[0260] (Input) Submit a share request.
[0261] (Output) The request is sent to the server.
[0262] 5.4 The server sends notifications to selected members.
[0263] (Input) Sending a sharing notification.
[0264] (Output) Shared members will be notified.
[0265] 5.5 When a sharing member logs in, the device displays the shared flowchart and related data.
[0266] (Input) Login information of the sharing member.
[0267] (Output) Display of shared data.
[0268] 5.6 Shared members will be able to add or modify their opinions.
[0269] (Input) Flowchart editing operations.
[0270] (Output) The edited content is reflected.
[0271] The above are the specific processing steps of the "5-why analysis tool" of the present invention.
[0272] (Application example 1)
[0273] 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."
[0274] Conventional data analysis methods have the drawback of making it difficult to identify the root cause of problems, making it difficult to promote efficient decision-making and teamwork. This is particularly true in factory robot production lines, where troubleshooting and optimizing production efficiency are difficult and quick responses are required.
[0275] 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.
[0276] In this invention, the server includes means for displaying the analysis process in flowchart form, means for recording data and inferences at each step, means for generating initial nodes based on an initial question entered by the user, means for displaying the generated flowchart to the user, means for generating new nodes based on new "why" questions entered and updating the flowchart, means for sharing the flowchart and related data with project members through a sharing function, and means for importing robot production data and updating the corresponding nodes in the flowchart based on the analysis results. This makes it possible to quickly and efficiently solve problems with factory robots and improve production efficiency.
[0277] An "analytical process" refers to a series of steps that analyze data or information to arrive at a specific result.
[0278] "Flowchart format" refers to a method of visually representing each step in a process or system using arrows and symbols.
[0279] "Data" refers to facts and information that have been converted into numbers, symbols, etc.
[0280] "Inference" refers to logically drawing a conclusion from given information and premises.
[0281] An "initial question" refers to the first question entered by the user at the start of the analysis process.
[0282] An "initial node" refers to the first point created in a flowchart based on an initial question.
[0283] A "new why question" refers to a new question that is added to dig deeper into an existing node.
[0284] A "new node" refers to a new point created in the flowchart based on a new "why" question.
[0285] "Sharing function" refers to the function that allows multiple users or members to jointly use data and flowcharts.
[0286] "Robot production data" refers to information such as robot performance and operation logs related to the production process.
[0287] "Analysis results" refers to the conclusions and findings obtained during the data analysis process.
[0288] This invention is a system that includes a "5-5 analysis tool" aimed at improving production efficiency and troubleshooting factory robots. This system consists of a server, a terminal, and a user. The server stores, authenticates, and analyzes data, while the terminal transmits information entered by the user to the server and receives and displays the results. The user enters various data and performs operations to advance the analysis.
[0289] 1. Login and authentication process:
[0290] The user accesses the system through a browser and enters login information (user name and password), which is then sent to the server.
[0291] The server checks the entered authentication information against a database, and if authentication is successful, it prompts the user to display the main screen of the analysis tool. If authentication fails, it returns an error message to the terminal.
[0292] 2. Entering initial questions and generating a flowchart:
[0293] The user clicks the "New Analysis" button and enters an initial question, which the terminal sends to the server.
[0294] The server stores the input initial question in a database, generates an initial node, and returns it to the terminal, which displays the initial question in a flowchart format.
[0295] 3. Enter new "why" questions and update the flowchart:
[0296] The user clicks on a particular node and enters a new "why" question, which the device sends to the server.
[0297] The server saves the new "why" question in the database, creates a new node and updates its position on the flowchart, and sends the updated flowchart to the device for display to the user.
[0298] 4. Data import and analysis:
[0299] The user clicks the button to import data, selects the file, and the terminal sends the selected data file to the server.
[0300] The server analyzes the received data, extracts information related to the problem, and stores it in a database. Based on the analysis results, it updates the relevant node in the flowchart and sends a response to the terminal. The terminal then displays the analysis results in the node, allowing the user to check the details.
[0301] 5. Use of Collaboration Features:
[0302] The user clicks the "Share" button and selects project members. The device then sends a share request to the server.
[0303] The server will send a notification to the selected members to share the flowchart and related data. When the sharing members log in, their devices will display the shared flowchart and related data, and the members can add their opinions.
[0304] Hardware and software used
[0305] Hardware: Regular PCs or laptops are used as servers and terminals. Various sensors and their control devices are also required to acquire data from the factory robots.
[0306] Software: The server uses a web framework such as Flask, and the database uses a relational database management system such as PostgreSQL. The terminal uses a web browser to provide the user interface, and also uses Python and other analysis tools as needed.
[0307] Examples of concrete examples and prompts
[0308] As a concrete example, consider the case of identifying the cause of a decline in the efficiency of a robot production line in a factory. For example, the user enters an initial question, "Why is the efficiency of the production line declining?", and a corresponding flowchart is generated. Next, the user adds a more in-depth question, such as "Why is the equipment failure rate so high?", and updates the flowchart. Furthermore, by importing equipment maintenance data and the server displaying the related analysis results in the flowchart, the user can identify the root cause of the problem and find an efficient solution.
[0309] Prompt example (text format)
[0310] Username: user1
[0311] Password: password123
[0312] Initial question: Why is the production line becoming less efficient?
[0313] New question: Why is the equipment failure rate so high?
[0314] Data file path: path / to / data.csv
[0315] Shared members: user2, user3
[0316] By sending these prompts to a server, the system can perform a series of analyses to identify the root causes of productivity declines, making the system a powerful tool for significantly improving factory operational efficiency.
[0317] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 1 will be described with reference to FIG.
[0318] Step 1:
[0319] The user accesses the system through a browser and enters login information (user name and password), which is then sent to the server.
[0320] Input: Username, Password
[0321] Specific operation: The terminal enters the username and password into the input form and sends it to the server as an HTTP request.
[0322] Output: Authentication information sent to the server
[0323] Step 2:
[0324] The server checks the entered authentication information against a database, and if authentication is successful, it prompts the user to display the main screen of the analysis tool. If authentication fails, it returns an error message to the terminal.
[0325] Input: Credentials
[0326] Data processing / calculation: The database is accessed on the server side and the user name and password are verified.
[0327] What it does: Executes a database query and checks credentials
[0328] Output: Authentication result (success or failure)
[0329] Step 3:
[0330] The user clicks the "New Analysis" button and enters an initial question, which the terminal sends to the server.
[0331] Input: Initial question
[0332] Specific actions: Enter an initial question through the user interface and click a button.
[0333] Output: Initial question sent to server
[0334] Step 4:
[0335] The server stores the input initial question in a database, generates an initial node, and returns it to the terminal, which displays the initial question in a flowchart format.
[0336] Input: Initial question
[0337] Data processing / calculation: Store the initial question in the database and process the data to generate new nodes.
[0338] Specific behavior: Save to database and create new node
[0339] Output: Initial node data and initial questions in flowchart format
[0340] Step 5:
[0341] The user clicks on a particular node and enters a new "why" question, which the device sends to the server.
[0342] Enter: a new "why" question
[0343] Specific Action: Click on a specific node, enter a new "why" question, and click the submit button.
[0344] Output: The new "why" question is sent to the server.
[0345] Step 6:
[0346] The server saves the new "why" question in the database, creates a new node and updates its position on the flowchart, and sends the updated flowchart to the device for display to the user.
[0347] Enter: a new "why" question
[0348] Data manipulation / calculation: Processing data to store new "why" questions in the database and update nodes
[0349] What it does: Generates updated nodes and a flowchart
[0350] Output: Updated flowchart data
[0351] Step 7:
[0352] The user clicks the button to import data, selects the file, and the terminal sends the selected data file to the server.
[0353] Input: Data file
[0354] Specific operation: Open the data file selection dialog, select the file, and click the Import button.
[0355] Output: Data files are sent to the server
[0356] Step 8:
[0357] The server analyzes the received data, extracts information related to the problem, and stores it in a database. Based on the analysis results, it updates the relevant node in the flowchart and sends a response to the terminal. The terminal then displays the analysis results in the node, allowing the user to check the details.
[0358] Input: Data file
[0359] Data processing / calculation: Analyze the received data, extract relevant information and store it in a database
[0360] Specific behavior: Runs the data analysis algorithm and updates the corresponding nodes
[0361] Output: Analysis results and updated flowchart
[0362] Step 9:
[0363] The user clicks the "Share" button and selects project members. The device then sends a share request to the server.
[0364] Input: Member list
[0365] Specific operation: Open the project member selection screen, select members, and click the Share button
[0366] Output: A share request is sent to the server
[0367] Step 10:
[0368] The server will send a notification to the selected members to share the flowchart and related data. When the sharing members log in, their devices will display the shared flowchart and related data, and they can add their comments.
[0369] Input: Share request
[0370] Data processing / calculation: Send notifications based on member list and prepare shared data
[0371] Specific behavior: The system notifies members and shares relevant data
[0372] Output: Shared data and notifications
[0373] This allows users to efficiently solve problems with factory robots and improve production efficiency.
[0374] 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.
[0375] This invention relates to a "Why-Why Analysis Tool" that uses "Why-Why Analysis" to identify the root cause of a problem during data analysis, supporting efficient decision-making and promoting teamwork, and further combines it with an emotion engine that recognizes the user's emotions to provide a more effective analysis process. This system displays the analysis process in a flowchart format and can record data and inferences at each step.
[0376] The basic structure of the system consists of a server, a device, a user, and an emotion engine, which work together. The server stores, authenticates, and analyzes data, while the device sends information entered by the user to the server and receives and displays the results. The user enters various data and performs operations to further the analysis. The emotion engine recognizes the user's emotions and influences the entire system to provide a more personalized experience.
[0377] 1. Login and authentication process:
[0378] - A user accesses the system through a browser and enters login information (user name and password), which is then sent to the server.
[0379] - The server checks the entered authentication information against the database, and if authentication is successful, it prompts the user to display the main screen of the analysis tool. If authentication fails, it returns an error message to the terminal.
[0380] 2. Entering initial questions and generating a flowchart:
[0381] - The user clicks the "New Analysis" button and enters an initial question, which the device sends to the server.
[0382] - The server saves the input initial question in a database, generates an initial node, and returns it to the terminal. The terminal displays the initial question in a flowchart format.
[0383] 3. Enter new "why" questions and update the flowchart:
[0384] - The user clicks on a particular node and enters a new "why" question, which the device sends to the server.
[0385] - The server saves the new "why" question in the database, creates a new node and updates its position on the flowchart, and sends the updated flowchart to the device for display to the user.
[0386] 4. Data import and analysis:
[0387] - The user clicks the button to import data and selects the file, and the terminal sends the selected data file to the server.
[0388] - The server analyzes the received data, extracts information related to the problem, and stores it in a database. Based on the analysis results, it updates the relevant node in the flowchart and returns a response to the terminal. The terminal then displays the analysis results in the node, allowing the user to check the details.
[0389] 5. Use of Collaboration Features:
[0390] - The user clicks the "Share" button and selects project members. The device sends a share request to the server.
[0391] - The server will send a notification to the selected members to share the flowchart and related data. When the sharing member logs in, the shared flowchart and related data will be displayed on the device, and the member can add or modify their comments.
[0392] 6. Collaboration with Emotion Engine:
[0393] - When a user logs in or performs an operation, the terminal transmits the user's emotional state to the emotion engine.
[0394] - The emotion engine analyzes emotions from user input and actions and sends the results to the server.
[0395] - The server adjusts the interface display content based on the received emotional data and instructs the device to display appropriate feedback and support messages.
[0396] - The emotion engine saves the user's emotion history and stores it in a database, allowing users to visualize changes in emotion during the analysis process.
[0397] As a concrete example, consider the case where a user is trying to find the cause of declining sales. The user enters the initial question, "Why are sales declining?", and a corresponding flowchart is generated. Next, the user adds more in-depth questions, such as "Why is marketing effectiveness low?", and updates the flowchart. Furthermore, marketing data is imported, and the server displays the relevant analysis results in the flowchart. During this process, the emotion engine recognizes the user's emotions, and if the user is feeling stressed, it can adjust the display content and display appropriate support messages.
[0398] As described above, this system supports efficient decision-making and promotes teamwork by clarifying the issues to be resolved prior to data analysis and eliminating unnecessary analysis. Furthermore, by combining it with an emotion engine, it is possible to provide a more personalized experience that takes into account the user's emotional state.
[0399] The processing flow will be explained below.
[0400] Login and Authentication Process
[0401] Step 1:
[0402] A user opens a browser and enters a URL to access the 5 Why Analysis Tool.
[0403] Step 2:
[0404] The device displays an authentication screen and provides a form for entering a username and password.
[0405] Step 3:
[0406] The user enters their authentication information and clicks the Login button.
[0407] Step 4:
[0408] The terminal transmits the entered authentication information to the server.
[0409] Step 5:
[0410] The server checks the received authentication information against a database and generates a result of authentication success or failure.
[0411] Step 6:
[0412] The server returns the authentication result to the terminal.
[0413] Step 7:
[0414] If the device is successfully authenticated, the main screen of the analysis tool is displayed. If authentication fails, an error message is displayed.
[0415] Entering initial questions and generating flowcharts
[0416] Step 1:
[0417] The user clicks the "New Analysis" button.
[0418] Step 2:
[0419] The terminal displays a form for entering initial questions.
[0420] Step 3:
[0421] The user enters an initial question and clicks the submit button.
[0422] Step 4:
[0423] The terminal transmits the input initial question to the server.
[0424] Step 5:
[0425] The server stores the received initial question in a database.
[0426] Step 6:
[0427] The server generates an initial node from the initial question and returns it to the terminal.
[0428] Step 7:
[0429] The initial node received by the terminal is displayed as the initial node in the flowchart.
[0430] Enter new "why" questions and update the flowchart
[0431] Step 1:
[0432] The user clicks on the node they want to add (e.g., the initial question node).
[0433] Step 2:
[0434] The device will display a form for you to enter a new "why" question.
[0435] Step 3:
[0436] The user enters a new "why" question and clicks the submit button.
[0437] Step 4:
[0438] The device sends the entered "why" question to the server.
[0439] Step 5:
[0440] The server stores the received "why" questions in a database and generates related nodes.
[0441] Step 6:
[0442] The server returns the updated flowchart to the terminal.
[0443] Step 7:
[0444] The terminal displays the updated flowchart and adds a new "Why" node.
[0445] Data import and analysis
[0446] Step 1:
[0447] User clicks the data import button.
[0448] Step 2:
[0449] The terminal displays a file selection dialog.
[0450] Step 3:
[0451] The user selects the file to import and clicks the submit button.
[0452] Step 4:
[0453] The terminal transmits the selected data file to the server.
[0454] Step 5:
[0455] The server parses the received data file and extracts information relevant to the problem.
[0456] Step 6:
[0457] The server stores the extracted data in a database and updates the corresponding node in the flowchart.
[0458] Step 7:
[0459] The server returns the analysis results to the terminal.
[0460] Step 8:
[0461] The terminal displays the analysis results at the relevant node in the flowchart, allowing the user to check the details.
[0462] Use of collaboration features
[0463] Step 1:
[0464] The user clicks the Share button.
[0465] Step 2:
[0466] The device displays a screen for selecting members to share with.
[0467] Step 3:
[0468] The user enters the email address of the member with whom the user wants to share and clicks the send button.
[0469] Step 4:
[0470] The device sends a share request to the server.
[0471] Step 5:
[0472] The server processes the received request and sends notifications to the selected members.
[0473] Step 6:
[0474] The server grants shared access and provides shared data to members.
[0475] Step 7:
[0476] When the shared member logs in, the device displays the shared flowchart and related data.
[0477] Step 8:
[0478] Members can review the shared data and add their opinions.
[0479] Collaboration with emotion engine
[0480] Step 1:
[0481] When a user logs in or performs an operation, the terminal transmits the user's facial expressions, voice, input speed, etc. to the emotion engine.
[0482] Step 2:
[0483] The emotion engine analyzes emotions from the user's input and actions and sends the results to the server.
[0484] Step 3:
[0485] The server passes a command to the terminal to adjust the content displayed on the interface based on the received emotional data.
[0486] Step 4:
[0487] The device receives instructions from the server, changes the interface display, and displays appropriate feedback and support messages.
[0488] Step 5:
[0489] The emotion engine saves the user's emotion history and stores it in a database.
[0490] Step 6:
[0491] When a user repeatedly uses the system, the device refers to the user's emotional history and personalizes the display content and assistance based on past emotional data.
[0492] Example 2
[0493] 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."
[0494] Conventional data analysis tools have the drawback of being unable to efficiently identify the root cause of a problem and are unable to provide feedback or assistance that reflects the user's emotional state. To solve this issue, it is necessary not only to make the data analysis process visually easy to understand, but also to provide a personalized experience that takes the user's emotional state into account.
[0495] 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.
[0496] In this invention, the server includes a means for displaying the analysis process in a flowchart format, a means for recording information and inferences at each step, and a means for analyzing the user's emotional state to adjust the interface display content and display appropriate feedback and support messages, thereby improving the efficiency of data analysis and enabling the user to receive optimal support according to their emotional state.
[0497] "Analysis process" refers to a series of tasks including data acquisition, analysis, and display of results.
[0498] A "flowchart format" is a diagram format used to visually represent procedures and processes.
[0499] "Information" refers to data entered by users and analysis results generated by the system.
[0500] "Inference" refers to the process of drawing conclusions based on given data or information.
[0501] "User" refers to an individual or organization that uses this system.
[0502] An "initial question" refers to a basic question that a user enters at the beginning of the data analysis process.
[0503] An "initial node" refers to the first step in a flowchart that is generated based on an initial question.
[0504] A "new why question" refers to a question that a user adds to further explore the initial question.
[0505] "Project team member" refers to an individual or group working together on a particular project.
[0506] "Relevant information" refers to all data and materials related to the flowchart and data analysis.
[0507] An "emotion analysis engine" refers to software or algorithms used to analyze a user's emotional state.
[0508] "Interface display content" refers to the on-screen information and messages that the system displays to the user.
[0509] "Feedback" refers to information or messages that a system provides in response to a user's actions or input.
[0510] "Support messages" refer to messages that provide appropriate support when users use the system.
[0511] "Authentication Information" refers to information used to identify and authenticate a user, such as a user name and password.
[0512] "Authentication" refers to the process by which a system verifies a user's identity and grants access rights.
[0513] "Main screen" refers to the basic work screen that is first displayed after a user logs in.
[0514] "Data file" refers to a file containing electronic data that is imported for analysis.
[0515] "Analysis results" refers to conclusions or findings obtained through the analysis of data.
[0516] This invention relates to a "Why-Why Analysis Tool" that uses "Why-Why Analysis" to identify the root cause of a problem during data analysis, supporting efficient decision-making and teamwork. Furthermore, by combining it with an emotion engine that recognizes the user's emotions, it provides a more effective analysis process. This system displays the analysis process in a flowchart format, allowing users to record information and inferences at each step.
[0517] The basic structure of the system consists of a server, a device, a user, and an emotion engine, which work together. The server stores, authenticates, and analyzes data, while the device sends information entered by the user to the server and receives and displays the results. The user enters various data and performs operations to further the analysis. The emotion engine recognizes the user's emotions and influences the entire system to provide a more personalized experience.
[0518] Hardware and software used
[0519] Server: Stores, authenticates, and analyzes data using a database (e.g., MySQL). Executes APIs and performs data analysis using a programming language such as Python.
[0520] Terminal: Provides the user interface using a web browser or dedicated app. The front end is built using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.
[0521] Emotion Engine: Uses emotion recognition APIs (e.g., Microsoft Azure Emotion API) to analyze user emotions.
[0522] This system works in the following example: Consider a case where a user is trying to find the cause of declining sales. The user enters the initial question, "Why are sales declining?", and a flowchart is generated. Next, the user adds more in-depth questions, such as "Why is marketing effectiveness low?", and updates the flowchart. Furthermore, marketing data is imported, and the server displays the relevant analysis results in the flowchart. During this process, the emotion engine recognizes the user's emotions, and if the user is feeling stressed, it can adjust the display content and display appropriate support messages.
[0523] Example prompts for generative AI models
[0524] The following prompt is for a scenario in which a probing "why" question is added to a question such as "Why are sales declining?", allowing emotions to play a role.
[0525] prompt:
[0526] A user is investigating the cause of declining sales. They enter "Why are sales declining?" as the initial question. They then follow up with "Why is marketing effectiveness low?" The user imports marketing data, and the system analyzes the data and notifies the results. Please create a scenario in which the user begins to feel stressed during this process, which is communicated to the emotion engine and an appropriate support message is displayed from the server.
[0527] The flow of the identification process in the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.
[0528] Step 1:
[0529] The user enters their login information and accesses the system.
[0530] Input: Username and Password (e.g. "example_p" and "1234")
[0531] How it works: The device sends this information to the server, which checks it against the authentication information in its database.
[0532] Output: If authentication is successful, the server instructs the terminal to display the main screen, otherwise it returns an error message.
[0533] Step 2:
[0534] The user enters an initial question and clicks the "New Analysis" button.
[0535] Input: Initial question (e.g., "Why are sales declining?")
[0536] Operation: The device sends an initial question to the server, which stores it in a database and generates an initial node.
[0537] Output: The server returns the information of the initial node to the terminal and displays it in a flowchart format.
[0538] Step 3:
[0539] The user clicks on an existing node and enters a new "why" question.
[0540] Enter: New question (e.g., "Why is my marketing not working?")
[0541] How it works: The device sends a new question to the server, which stores it in the database and creates a new node.
[0542] Output: The server sends the updated flowchart back to the device for display.
[0543] Step 4:
[0544] The user selects a data file and imports it.
[0545] Input: Data file (e.g. marketing data file)
[0546] How it works: The device sends a data file to the server, which then analyzes the data, extracts relevant information, and stores it in a database.
[0547] Output: The server reflects the analysis results in a flowchart and sends it back to the terminal for display.
[0548] Step 5:
[0549] The user clicks the "Share" button and selects project members.
[0550] Input: Selection information of members to share
[0551] How it works: The device sends a sharing request to the server, and the server sends notifications to selected members.
[0552] Output: The flowchart and related data are displayed on the device of each collaborator, allowing them to give their opinions and make corrections.
[0553] Step 6:
[0554] The terminal transmits the user's emotional state to the emotion engine.
[0555] Input: User's emotional state (e.g., stress)
[0556] How it works: The emotion engine analyzes the user's emotional state and sends the results to the server.
[0557] Output: The server adjusts the interface display and displays appropriate feedback and assistance messages on the terminal.
[0558] (Application example 2)
[0559] 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."
[0560] Conventional "5-Why Analysis" tools do not take the user's emotions into consideration and the analysis process proceeds mechanically, which can cause stress and frustration for the user. Furthermore, when solving problems on the factory floor, ignoring the emotional factors that arise on the shop floor prevents optimal decision-making and promotion of teamwork.
[0561] The specific processing by the specific processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in Application Example 2 is realized by the following means. In this invention, the server includes means for displaying the analysis process in flowchart form, means for recording data and inferences at each step, means for generating an initial node based on an initial question entered by the user, means for displaying the generated flowchart to the user, means for generating a new node based on a new "why" question entered and updating the flowchart, means for sharing the flowchart and related data with project members through a sharing function, and means for recognizing the user's emotions using an emotion engine and providing personalized feedback. This enables the user to effectively identify the root cause of a problem while promoting decision-making and teamwork that take emotional aspects into consideration.
[0562] An "analytical process" is a set of steps for systematically evaluating data to identify causes of problems and solutions.
[0563] A "flowchart format" is a diagram made up of shapes and arrows to visually represent a process or procedure.
[0564] "Inference" is the process of logically drawing conclusions based on given information and data.
[0565] An "initial question" is the first question posed to find the initial cause of a problem.
[0566] An "initial node" is the first point in a flowchart where the analysis process begins.
[0567] A "new why question" is a new question added to dig deeper into a particular problem.
[0568] The "sharing function" is a means for sharing information and data among project members and stakeholders.
[0569] An "emotion engine" is a technology that recognizes a user's emotions and adjusts the system's behavior and feedback based on those emotions.
[0570] "Personalized feedback" refers to customized responses or advice tailored to a user's individual emotional state and needs.
[0571] The "import button" is an operation button that the user uses to import external data into the system.
[0572] "Analysis results" refer to the conclusions and findings obtained during the data analysis process.
[0573] "Support messages" are messages of advice or support provided to users in the process of resolving a problem.
[0574] This invention relates to a factory efficiency support assistant system, which performs "5-why analysis" to identify the root cause of a problem while taking into account the user's emotions. The following explains how to specifically implement this system.
[0575] Hardware and Software Configuration
[0576] Hardware
[0577] Terminal: Robot terminal used in the factory (industrial PC, etc.)
[0578] Server: A powerful computer for storing, authenticating, and analyzing data
[0579] Emotion engine: a dedicated device or software module for analyzing user emotions
[0580] software
[0581] Flask: a web application framework
[0582] SQLite: A lightweight relational database management system
[0583] EmotionEngine: Software for recognizing and analyzing user emotions
[0584] Data processing and calculation
[0585] 1. Login and authentication process:
[0586] The user sends login information from the terminal to the server, and the server authenticates by checking it against an SQLite database.
[0587] If authentication is successful, the user is directed to the main screen of the analysis tool.
[0588] At the same time, the emotion engine analyzes the user's emotional state and adjusts the interface accordingly.
[0589] 2. "5-Why Analysis":
[0590] The user enters an initial question into the terminal, which then sends it to the server.
[0591] The server stores the question in a database, generates an initial node, and sends it back to the terminal, which displays the node in a flowchart format.
[0592] Each time the user enters a new "why" question, the server generates a new node and sends an updated flowchart back to the device.
[0593] 3. Data import and analysis:
[0594] The user clicks the import button, selects a data file, and sends it from the device to the server.
[0595] The server analyzes the received data and reflects the information related to the particular node in the flow chart.
[0596] Updated analysis results are displayed on the device so users can view the details.
[0597] 4. Emotional Engine Feedback:
[0598] The server detects the user's stress and frustration based on data from the emotion engine.
[0599] Appropriate support messages are generated and displayed on the device, allowing users to proceed with their analysis in a relaxed manner.
[0600] Examples of concrete examples and prompts
[0601] As a concrete example, consider a case where a user is trying to find the cause of a machine breakdown in a factory. After entering their login information and being authenticated, the user enters the initial question "Why did the machine break down?" on the main screen. A flowchart is generated based on this, and then new questions such as "Why didn't this part work?" are added to dig deeper. During this process, the server updates specific nodes based on the data imported by the user, and the emotion engine analyzes the user's emotional state and provides appropriate feedback.
[0602] Prompt Sentence Examples
[0603] "Please enter your username and password."
[0604] "Why did the machine stop?"
[0605] "Why didn't this part work?"
[0606] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 2 will be described with reference to FIG.
[0607] Step 1:
[0608] The terminal displays a login screen, and the user enters their username and password. The authentication information entered by the user is sent from the terminal to the server. The server compares the received authentication information with a database (SQLite) and authenticates the user. If authentication is successful, the server instructs the terminal to display the main screen. If authentication fails, an error message is displayed.
[0609] Input: Username, Password
[0610] Output: Main screen display (if authentication is successful), error message (if authentication fails)
[0611] Step 2:
[0612] The user clicks the "New Analysis" button on the main screen and enters an initial question. The terminal sends this initial question to the server. The server stores the received initial question in a database and generates an initial node. The generated initial node is displayed on the terminal in a flowchart format.
[0613] Input: Initial question
[0614] Output: Generate initial question nodes and display flowchart
[0615] Step 3:
[0616] The user clicks on a particular node and enters a new "why" question. The device sends this new question to the server. The server saves the new question in the database, creates a new node, and updates the flowchart. The updated flowchart is sent to the device and displayed to the user.
[0617] Enter: a new "why" question
[0618] Output: New nodes are created, the flowchart is updated and displayed
[0619] Step 4:
[0620] The user clicks the Import button to select a data file to use for analysis. The terminal sends the selected data file to the server. The server receives the data and performs analysis. The analyzed data is associated with the specific node in question and updates the flowchart. The updated analysis results are sent to the terminal and displayed to the user.
[0621] Input: Data file
[0622] Output: Data analysis results, updated flowchart display
[0623] Step 5:
[0624] The user clicks the "Share" button and selects project members. The device sends a sharing request to the server. The server notifies the selected members and shares the flowchart and related data. When the sharing members log in, the device displays the shared flowchart and related data, allowing them to add or modify their opinions.
[0625] Input: Project member selection
[0626] Output: Share flowcharts and related data, view shared content
[0627] Step 6:
[0628] When a user logs in or performs an operation, the device sends the user's input and actions to the emotion engine. The emotion engine analyzes the user's emotions and sends the results to the server. Based on the emotion data, the server adjusts the interface display content and instructs the device to display appropriate feedback and support messages. The emotion engine saves the user's emotion history and stores it in a database.
[0629] Input: User input and behavior data
[0630] Output: Sentiment analysis results, interface display adjustments, support messages
[0631] Through this process, users can receive emotional support while efficiently identifying the root cause of the problem.
[0632] 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.
[0633] 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.
[0634] 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.
[0635] [Second embodiment]
[0636] FIG. 3 shows an example of the configuration of a data processing system 210 according to the second embodiment.
[0637] 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.
[0638] 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).
[0639] 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.
[0640] 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.
[0641] 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).
[0642] 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.
[0643] 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.
[0644] 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.
[0645] 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.
[0646] In the smart glasses 214, 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.
[0647] 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."
[0648] This invention relates to a "Why-Why Analysis Tool" that uses "Why-Why Analysis" to identify the root cause of a problem during data analysis, and supports efficient decision-making and the promotion of teamwork. This system displays the analysis process in a flowchart format and can record data and inferences at each step.
[0649] The basic structure of the system consists of a server, a terminal, and a user, which work together. The server stores, authenticates, and analyzes data, while the terminal sends information entered by the user to the server and receives and displays the results. The user enters various data and performs operations to advance the analysis.
[0650] 1. Login and authentication process:
[0651] - A user accesses the system through a browser and enters login information (user name and password), which is then sent to the server.
[0652] - The server checks the entered authentication information against the database, and if authentication is successful, it prompts the user to display the main screen of the analysis tool. If authentication fails, it returns an error message to the terminal.
[0653] 2. Entering initial questions and generating a flowchart:
[0654] - The user clicks the "New Analysis" button and enters an initial question, which the device sends to the server.
[0655] - The server saves the input initial question in a database, generates an initial node, and returns it to the terminal. The terminal displays the initial question in a flowchart format.
[0656] 3. Enter new "why" questions and update the flowchart:
[0657] - The user clicks on a particular node and enters a new "why" question, which the device sends to the server.
[0658] - The server saves the new "why" question in the database, creates a new node and updates its position on the flowchart, and sends the updated flowchart to the device for display to the user.
[0659] 4. Data import and analysis:
[0660] - The user clicks the button to import data and selects the file, and the terminal sends the selected data file to the server.
[0661] - The server analyzes the received data, extracts information related to the problem, and stores it in a database. Based on the analysis results, it updates the relevant node in the flowchart and returns a response to the terminal. The terminal then displays the analysis results in the node, allowing the user to check the details.
[0662] 5. Use of Collaboration Features:
[0663] - The user clicks the "Share" button and selects project members. The device sends a share request to the server.
[0664] - The server will send a notification to the selected members to share the flowchart and related data. When the sharing member logs in, the shared flowchart and related data will be displayed on the device, and the member can add or modify their comments.
[0665] As a concrete example, consider a case where a user is trying to find the cause of declining sales. The user enters the initial question, "Why are sales declining?", and a corresponding flowchart is generated. Next, the user adds a probing question, such as "Why is marketing effectiveness low?", and updates the flowchart. Furthermore, marketing data is imported, and the server displays the relevant analysis results in the flowchart. This allows the user to identify the root cause of the problem and find an efficient solution.
[0666] As described above, the present invention is a system that supports efficient decision-making and promotes teamwork by clarifying the issues to be resolved prior to data analysis and eliminating unnecessary analysis.
[0667] The processing flow will be explained below.
[0668] Login and Authentication Process
[0669] Step 1:
[0670] A user opens a browser and enters a URL to access the 5 Why Analysis Tool.
[0671] Step 2:
[0672] The device displays an authentication screen and provides a form for entering a username and password.
[0673] Step 3:
[0674] The user enters their authentication information and clicks the Login button.
[0675] Step 4:
[0676] The terminal transmits the entered authentication information to the server.
[0677] Step 5:
[0678] The server checks the received authentication information against a database and generates a result of authentication success or failure.
[0679] Step 6:
[0680] The server returns the authentication result to the terminal.
[0681] Step 7:
[0682] If the device is successfully authenticated, the main screen of the analysis tool is displayed. If authentication fails, an error message is displayed.
[0683] Entering initial questions and generating flowcharts
[0684] Step 1:
[0685] The user clicks the "New Analysis" button.
[0686] Step 2:
[0687] The terminal displays a form for entering initial questions.
[0688] Step 3:
[0689] The user enters an initial question and clicks the submit button.
[0690] Step 4:
[0691] The terminal transmits the input initial question to the server.
[0692] Step 5:
[0693] The server stores the received initial question in a database.
[0694] Step 6:
[0695] The server generates an initial node from the initial question and returns it to the terminal.
[0696] Step 7:
[0697] The initial node received by the terminal is displayed as the initial node in the flowchart.
[0698] Enter new "why" questions and update the flowchart
[0699] Step 1:
[0700] The user clicks on the node they want to add (e.g., the initial question node).
[0701] Step 2:
[0702] The device will display a form for you to enter a new "why" question.
[0703] Step 3:
[0704] The user enters a new "why" question and clicks the submit button.
[0705] Step 4:
[0706] The device sends the entered "why" question to the server.
[0707] Step 5:
[0708] The server stores the received "why" questions in a database and generates related nodes.
[0709] Step 6:
[0710] The server returns the updated flowchart to the terminal.
[0711] Step 7:
[0712] The terminal displays the updated flowchart and adds a new "Why" node.
[0713] Data import and analysis
[0714] Step 1:
[0715] User clicks the data import button.
[0716] Step 2:
[0717] The terminal displays a file selection dialog.
[0718] Step 3:
[0719] The user selects the file to import and clicks the submit button.
[0720] Step 4:
[0721] The terminal transmits the selected data file to the server.
[0722] Step 5:
[0723] The server parses the received data file and extracts information relevant to the problem.
[0724] Step 6:
[0725] The server stores the extracted data in a database and updates the corresponding node in the flowchart.
[0726] Step 7:
[0727] The server returns the analysis results to the terminal.
[0728] Step 8:
[0729] The terminal displays the analysis results at the relevant node in the flowchart, allowing the user to check the details.
[0730] Use of collaboration features
[0731] Step 1:
[0732] The user clicks the Share button.
[0733] Step 2:
[0734] The device displays a screen for selecting members to share with.
[0735] Step 3:
[0736] The user enters the email address of the member with whom the user wants to share and clicks the send button.
[0737] Step 4:
[0738] The device sends a share request to the server.
[0739] Step 5:
[0740] The server processes the received request and sends notifications to the selected members.
[0741] Step 6:
[0742] The server grants shared access and provides shared data to members.
[0743] Step 7:
[0744] When the shared member logs in, the device displays the shared flowchart and related data.
[0745] Step 8:
[0746] Members can review the shared data and add their opinions.
[0747] Example 1
[0748] 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."
[0749] There is a lack of efficient methods for identifying the root causes of problems in data analysis. Furthermore, collaboration between teams is often difficult, preventing smooth sharing of information and exchange of opinions. This results in delayed decision-making and wasted effort and time.
[0750] 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.
[0751] In this invention, the server includes a means for generating an initial node based on an initial question entered by a user, a means for analyzing data imported by a user and updating the corresponding node in the flowchart, and a means for sharing the flowchart and related data with project members through a sharing function, thereby enabling efficient identification of the root cause of problems and effective collaboration among users.
[0752] "Means for displaying in a flowchart format" refers to a display device and software for displaying information entered by a user in a visually easy-to-understand format.
[0753] "Means for recording data and inferences" refers to recording devices and software that store and enable reference to data entered by users and inferences automatically generated by the system.
[0754] The "means for generating an initial node" refers to a program and device for generating a node that serves as the starting point for analysis based on an initial question entered by a user and displaying it on a flowchart.
[0755] "Means for updating a flowchart" refers to a program and device that receives a new "why" question entered by a user, generates a new node based on that question, and adds or modifies an existing flowchart.
[0756] "Sharing Function" refers to the function that allows multiple users involved in a project to share flowcharts and related data and access and edit them in real time.
[0757] "Means for entering login information" refers to the input devices and interfaces through which users enter their usernames and passwords to authenticate themselves when accessing the system.
[0758] "Means for authentication" refers to a program and device that allows the server to check the user's login information against a database and confirm that the user is a legitimate user.
[0759] "Import Button" means an interface button that enables a User to select a data file from their device and upload it to the System.
[0760] "Means for analyzing data" refers to programs and devices for analyzing data files received by the server and extracting information relevant to solving the problem.
[0761] "Means for displaying the analysis results to the user" refers to a display device and software for transmitting the analysis results generated by the server to the user's terminal and displaying them in a visually easy-to-understand format.
[0762] This invention relates to a "5-Why Analysis Tool" that helps improve the efficiency of data analysis and identify the root causes of problems. This system works in cooperation with a server, terminals, and users, and displays the analysis process in a flowchart format, allowing data and inferences to be recorded at each step.
[0763] The basic configuration of the system is as follows:
[0764] 1. Server Functions
[0765] The server has the function of generating an initial node based on the initial question entered by the user. This initial question is saved in the database, and an initial node is generated and returned to the terminal. When the user enters a new "why" question, the server saves this question in the database, generates a new node, updates its position on the flowchart, and sends it back to the terminal. The server also has the function of analyzing the data imported by the user and updating the corresponding node in the flowchart based on the analysis results. As a result, the analysis results are displayed on the user's terminal.
[0766] 2. Device Features
[0767] The terminal is responsible for sending information entered by the user to the server and receiving and displaying responses from the server. When the user enters login information, the terminal sends this information to the server for authentication. If authentication is successful, the main screen of the analysis tool is displayed on the terminal. When the user enters an initial question or a new "why" question, the terminal sends this to the server and displays the generated flowchart. In addition, when the user imports data, the terminal sends the data to the server and receives and displays the analysis results.
[0768] 3. User Operation
[0769] Users access the system through a browser and enter their login information to log in. After logging in, users can click the "New Analysis" button to enter an initial question, and a flowchart will be generated. Users can also click on specific nodes to enter new "why" questions and update the flowchart. If data analysis is required, users can click the "Import Data" button, select the data file they want to analyze, and import it. The analysis results will then be reflected in the flowchart. They can also use the sharing function to share flowcharts and related data with project members and work together to solve problems.
[0770] Specific operation example
[0771] If a user wants to find the cause of declining sales, they enter an initial question: "Why are sales declining?" An initial node is generated based on this question, and a flowchart is displayed. Next, a new "why" question is added: "Why is marketing effectiveness low?" The flowchart is updated. The user then imports marketing data, and the server analyzes the data and extracts relevant information. Analysis results, such as "There is a lack of reach to the target demographic," are displayed in the flowchart, allowing the user to view the details.
[0772] Prompt Sentence Examples
[0773] For example, the following prompt sentence is used:
[0774] Start with an initial question: "Why are sales declining?", import your marketing data, and present the analysis results in a flowchart. Explain the reasons in detail.
[0775] The present invention allows users to efficiently identify the root cause of problems and make effective decisions, while the flow chart display and sharing capabilities promote teamwork.
[0776] The flow of the identification process in the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.
[0777] Processing step flow
[0778] Step 1: Login and Authentication
[0779] 1.1 The user opens the login page.
[0780] (Input) Access the login page in your browser.
[0781] (Output) The login page is displayed.
[0782] 1.2 The user enters their username and password and clicks the login button.
[0783] (Input) The user name and password are entered.
[0784] (Output) The input information is sent to the server.
[0785] 1.3 The terminal sends the user's input information to the server.
[0786] (Input) The transmission of input information by a terminal.
[0787] (Output) Authentication information is sent to the server.
[0788] 1.4 The server connects to the database and verifies the input information.
[0789] (Input) The server accesses the database to check the authentication information.
[0790] (Output) The authentication result (success / failure) is obtained.
[0791] 1.5 The server returns the authentication result to the terminal.
[0792] (Input) Authentication result sent from the server.
[0793] (Output) The authentication result will be displayed on the terminal. If successful, the main screen will be displayed, and if unsuccessful, an error message will be displayed.
[0794] Step 2: Enter initial questions and generate flowcharts
[0795] 2.1 User clicks the "New Analysis" button.
[0796] (Input) User click action.
[0797] (Output) The initial question input screen will be displayed.
[0798] 2.2 The user enters the initial question and clicks the submit button.
[0799] (Input) An initial question is entered.
[0800] (Output) The initial question is sent to the server.
[0801] 2.3 The device sends an initial question to the server.
[0802] (Input) Sending an initial question by the terminal.
[0803] (Output) An initial query is sent to the server.
[0804] 2.4 The server saves the initial question in the database and generates the initial node.
[0805] (Input) A request to the server to save the initial question.
[0806] (Output) Generate and save the initial node.
[0807] 2.5 The server returns the generated initial node to the terminal.
[0808] (Input) Sends initial node creation information.
[0809] (Output) The initial question node is displayed on the terminal.
[0810] 2.6 The terminal displays the initial questions in a flowchart format.
[0811] (Input) Initial node information from the server.
[0812] (Output) The initial questions are displayed in a flowchart format.
[0813] Step 3: Enter new "why" questions and update your flowchart
[0814] 3.1 The user clicks on a specific node.
[0815] (Input) User click action.
[0816] (Output) A screen for entering a new "why" question will appear.
[0817] 3.2 User enters a new "why" question and clicks submit.
[0818] (Input) A new "why" question is entered.
[0819] (Output) The new question is sent to the server.
[0820] 3.3 The device sends a new question to the server.
[0821] (Input) Submitting a question via the terminal.
[0822] (Output) A new question is sent to the server.
[0823] 3.4 The server saves the new question in the database, creates a new node and updates its position on the flowchart.
[0824] (Input) A request to the server to save the question.
[0825] (Output) New nodes are created and the flowchart is updated.
[0826] 3.5 The server returns the updated flowchart to the terminal.
[0827] (Input) Send update information.
[0828] (Output) The updated flowchart is sent to the terminal.
[0829] 3.6 The device displays the updated flowchart to the user.
[0830] (Input) Update information from the server.
[0831] (Output) The updated flowchart is displayed.
[0832] Step 4: Import and analyze data
[0833] 4.1 The user clicks the "Import Data" button.
[0834] (Input) User click action.
[0835] (Output) A file selection dialog will appear.
[0836] 4.2 User selects the file to import and clicks the Submit button.
[0837] The (input) data file is selected.
[0838] (Output) The file is sent to the server.
[0839] 4.3 The device sends the selected data file to the server.
[0840] (Input) Sending files via terminal.
[0841] (Output) The file is sent to the server.
[0842] 4.4 The server receives the data file and begins analysis.
[0843] (Input) Receives a file to the server.
[0844] (Output) Data analysis begins.
[0845] 4.5 The server updates the relevant node in the flowchart based on the analysis results and saves them in the database.
[0846] (Input) Generation of data analysis results.
[0847] (Output) Save the analysis results and update the flowchart.
[0848] 4.6 The server sends the updated flowchart and analysis results back to the device.
[0849] (Input) Send update information.
[0850] (Output) Analysis results and update information are sent to the terminal.
[0851] 4.7 The terminal displays the analysis results in the nodes of the flowchart.
[0852] (Input) Analysis result information from the server.
[0853] (Output) The analysis results are displayed in the nodes of the flowchart.
[0854] Step 5: Use collaboration features
[0855] 5.1 User clicks the "Share" button.
[0856] (Input) User click action.
[0857] (Output) The sharing member selection screen will be displayed.
[0858] 5.2 The user selects the project members with whom they want to share and clicks the send button.
[0859] (Input) Selection of project members.
[0860] (Output) A share request is sent to the server.
[0861] 5.3 The device sends a share request to the server.
[0862] (Input) Submit a share request.
[0863] (Output) The request is sent to the server.
[0864] 5.4 The server sends notifications to selected members.
[0865] (Input) Sending a sharing notification.
[0866] (Output) Shared members will be notified.
[0867] 5.5 When a sharing member logs in, the device displays the shared flowchart and related data.
[0868] (Input) Login information of the sharing member.
[0869] (Output) Display of shared data.
[0870] 5.6 Shared members will be able to add or modify their opinions.
[0871] (Input) Flowchart editing operations.
[0872] (Output) The edited content is reflected.
[0873] The above are the specific processing steps of the "5-why analysis tool" of the present invention.
[0874] (Application example 1)
[0875] 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."
[0876] Conventional data analysis methods have the drawback of making it difficult to identify the root cause of problems, making it difficult to promote efficient decision-making and teamwork. This is particularly true in factory robot production lines, where troubleshooting and optimizing production efficiency are difficult and quick responses are required.
[0877] 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.
[0878] In this invention, the server includes means for displaying the analysis process in flowchart form, means for recording data and inferences at each step, means for generating initial nodes based on an initial question entered by the user, means for displaying the generated flowchart to the user, means for generating new nodes based on new "why" questions entered and updating the flowchart, means for sharing the flowchart and related data with project members through a sharing function, and means for importing robot production data and updating the corresponding nodes in the flowchart based on the analysis results. This makes it possible to quickly and efficiently solve problems with factory robots and improve production efficiency.
[0879] An "analytical process" refers to a series of steps that analyze data or information to arrive at a specific result.
[0880] "Flowchart format" refers to a method of visually representing each step in a process or system using arrows and symbols.
[0881] "Data" refers to facts and information that have been converted into numbers, symbols, etc.
[0882] "Inference" refers to logically drawing a conclusion from given information and premises.
[0883] An "initial question" refers to the first question entered by the user at the start of the analysis process.
[0884] An "initial node" refers to the first point created in a flowchart based on an initial question.
[0885] A "new why question" refers to a new question that is added to dig deeper into an existing node.
[0886] A "new node" refers to a new point created in the flowchart based on a new "why" question.
[0887] "Sharing function" refers to the function that allows multiple users or members to jointly use data and flowcharts.
[0888] "Robot production data" refers to information such as robot performance and operation logs related to the production process.
[0889] "Analysis results" refers to the conclusions and findings obtained during the data analysis process.
[0890] This invention is a system that includes a "5-5 analysis tool" aimed at improving production efficiency and troubleshooting factory robots. This system consists of a server, a terminal, and a user. The server stores, authenticates, and analyzes data, while the terminal transmits information entered by the user to the server and receives and displays the results. The user enters various data and performs operations to advance the analysis.
[0891] 1. Login and authentication process:
[0892] The user accesses the system through a browser and enters login information (user name and password), which is then sent to the server.
[0893] The server checks the entered authentication information against a database, and if authentication is successful, it prompts the user to display the main screen of the analysis tool. If authentication fails, it returns an error message to the terminal.
[0894] 2. Entering initial questions and generating a flowchart:
[0895] The user clicks the "New Analysis" button and enters an initial question, which the terminal sends to the server.
[0896] The server stores the input initial question in a database, generates an initial node, and returns it to the terminal, which displays the initial question in a flowchart format.
[0897] 3. Enter new "why" questions and update the flowchart:
[0898] The user clicks on a particular node and enters a new "why" question, which the device sends to the server.
[0899] The server saves the new "why" question in the database, creates a new node and updates its position on the flowchart, and sends the updated flowchart to the device for display to the user.
[0900] 4. Data import and analysis:
[0901] The user clicks the button to import data, selects the file, and the terminal sends the selected data file to the server.
[0902] The server analyzes the received data, extracts information related to the problem, and stores it in a database. Based on the analysis results, it updates the relevant node in the flowchart and sends a response to the terminal. The terminal then displays the analysis results in the node, allowing the user to check the details.
[0903] 5. Use of Collaboration Features:
[0904] The user clicks the "Share" button and selects project members. The device then sends a share request to the server.
[0905] The server will send a notification to the selected members to share the flowchart and related data. When the sharing members log in, their devices will display the shared flowchart and related data, and the members can add their opinions.
[0906] Hardware and software used
[0907] Hardware: Regular PCs or laptops are used as servers and terminals. Various sensors and their control devices are also required to acquire data from the factory robots.
[0908] Software: The server uses a web framework such as Flask, and the database uses a relational database management system such as PostgreSQL. The terminal uses a web browser to provide the user interface, and also uses Python and other analysis tools as needed.
[0909] Examples of concrete examples and prompts
[0910] As a concrete example, consider the case of identifying the cause of a decline in the efficiency of a robot production line in a factory. For example, the user enters an initial question, "Why is the efficiency of the production line declining?", and a corresponding flowchart is generated. Next, the user adds a more in-depth question, such as "Why is the equipment failure rate so high?", and updates the flowchart. Furthermore, by importing equipment maintenance data and the server displaying the related analysis results in the flowchart, the user can identify the root cause of the problem and find an efficient solution.
[0911] Prompt example (text format)
[0912] Username: user1
[0913] Password: password123
[0914] Initial question: Why is the production line becoming less efficient?
[0915] New question: Why is the equipment failure rate so high?
[0916] Data file path: path / to / data.csv
[0917] Shared members: user2, user3
[0918] By sending these prompts to a server, the system can perform a series of analyses to identify the root causes of productivity declines, making the system a powerful tool for significantly improving factory operational efficiency.
[0919] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 1 will be described with reference to FIG.
[0920] Step 1:
[0921] The user accesses the system through a browser and enters login information (user name and password), which is then sent to the server.
[0922] Input: Username, Password
[0923] Specific operation: The terminal enters the username and password into the input form and sends it to the server as an HTTP request.
[0924] Output: Authentication information sent to the server
[0925] Step 2:
[0926] The server checks the entered authentication information against a database, and if authentication is successful, it prompts the user to display the main screen of the analysis tool. If authentication fails, it returns an error message to the terminal.
[0927] Input: Credentials
[0928] Data processing / calculation: The database is accessed on the server side and the user name and password are verified.
[0929] What it does: Executes a database query and checks credentials
[0930] Output: Authentication result (success or failure)
[0931] Step 3:
[0932] The user clicks the "New Analysis" button and enters an initial question, which the terminal sends to the server.
[0933] Input: Initial question
[0934] Specific actions: Enter an initial question through the user interface and click a button.
[0935] Output: Initial question sent to server
[0936] Step 4:
[0937] The server stores the input initial question in a database, generates an initial node, and returns it to the terminal, which displays the initial question in a flowchart format.
[0938] Input: Initial question
[0939] Data processing / calculation: Store the initial question in the database and process the data to generate new nodes.
[0940] Specific behavior: Save to database and create new node
[0941] Output: Initial node data and initial questions in flowchart format
[0942] Step 5:
[0943] The user clicks on a particular node and enters a new "why" question, which the device sends to the server.
[0944] Enter: a new "why" question
[0945] Specific Action: Click on a specific node, enter a new "why" question, and click the submit button.
[0946] Output: The new "why" question is sent to the server.
[0947] Step 6:
[0948] The server saves the new "why" question in the database, creates a new node and updates its position on the flowchart, and sends the updated flowchart to the device for display to the user.
[0949] Enter: a new "why" question
[0950] Data manipulation / calculation: Processing data to store new "why" questions in the database and update nodes
[0951] What it does: Generates updated nodes and a flowchart
[0952] Output: Updated flowchart data
[0953] Step 7:
[0954] The user clicks the button to import data, selects the file, and the terminal sends the selected data file to the server.
[0955] Input: Data file
[0956] Specific operation: Open the data file selection dialog, select the file, and click the Import button.
[0957] Output: Data files are sent to the server
[0958] Step 8:
[0959] The server analyzes the received data, extracts information related to the problem, and stores it in a database. Based on the analysis results, it updates the relevant node in the flowchart and sends a response to the terminal. The terminal then displays the analysis results in the node, allowing the user to check the details.
[0960] Input: Data file
[0961] Data processing / calculation: Analyze the received data, extract relevant information and store it in a database
[0962] Specific behavior: Runs the data analysis algorithm and updates the corresponding nodes
[0963] Output: Analysis results and updated flowchart
[0964] Step 9:
[0965] The user clicks the "Share" button and selects project members. The device then sends a share request to the server.
[0966] Input: Member list
[0967] Specific operation: Open the project member selection screen, select members, and click the Share button
[0968] Output: A share request is sent to the server
[0969] Step 10:
[0970] The server will send a notification to the selected members to share the flowchart and related data. When the sharing members log in, their devices will display the shared flowchart and related data, and they can add their comments.
[0971] Input: Share request
[0972] Data processing / calculation: Send notifications based on member list and prepare shared data
[0973] Specific behavior: The system notifies members and shares relevant data
[0974] Output: Shared data and notifications
[0975] This allows users to efficiently solve problems with factory robots and improve production efficiency.
[0976] 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.
[0977] This invention relates to a "Why-Why Analysis Tool" that uses "Why-Why Analysis" to identify the root cause of a problem during data analysis, supporting efficient decision-making and promoting teamwork, and further combines it with an emotion engine that recognizes the user's emotions to provide a more effective analysis process. This system displays the analysis process in a flowchart format and can record data and inferences at each step.
[0978] The basic structure of the system consists of a server, a device, a user, and an emotion engine, which work together. The server stores, authenticates, and analyzes data, while the device sends information entered by the user to the server and receives and displays the results. The user enters various data and performs operations to further the analysis. The emotion engine recognizes the user's emotions and influences the entire system to provide a more personalized experience.
[0979] 1. Login and authentication process:
[0980] - A user accesses the system through a browser and enters login information (user name and password), which is then sent to the server.
[0981] - The server checks the entered authentication information against the database, and if authentication is successful, it prompts the user to display the main screen of the analysis tool. If authentication fails, it returns an error message to the terminal.
[0982] 2. Entering initial questions and generating a flowchart:
[0983] - The user clicks the "New Analysis" button and enters an initial question, which the device sends to the server.
[0984] - The server saves the input initial question in a database, generates an initial node, and returns it to the terminal. The terminal displays the initial question in a flowchart format.
[0985] 3. Enter new "why" questions and update the flowchart:
[0986] - The user clicks on a particular node and enters a new "why" question, which the device sends to the server.
[0987] - The server saves the new "why" question in the database, creates a new node and updates its position on the flowchart, and sends the updated flowchart to the device for display to the user.
[0988] 4. Data import and analysis:
[0989] - The user clicks the button to import data and selects the file, and the terminal sends the selected data file to the server.
[0990] - The server analyzes the received data, extracts information related to the problem, and stores it in a database. Based on the analysis results, it updates the relevant node in the flowchart and returns a response to the terminal. The terminal then displays the analysis results in the node, allowing the user to check the details.
[0991] 5. Use of Collaboration Features:
[0992] - The user clicks the "Share" button and selects project members. The device sends a share request to the server.
[0993] - The server will send a notification to the selected members to share the flowchart and related data. When the sharing member logs in, the shared flowchart and related data will be displayed on the device, and the member can add or modify their comments.
[0994] 6. Collaboration with Emotion Engine:
[0995] - When a user logs in or performs an operation, the terminal transmits the user's emotional state to the emotion engine.
[0996] - The emotion engine analyzes emotions from user input and actions and sends the results to the server.
[0997] - The server adjusts the interface display content based on the received emotional data and instructs the device to display appropriate feedback and support messages.
[0998] - The emotion engine saves the user's emotion history and stores it in a database, allowing users to visualize changes in emotion during the analysis process.
[0999] As a concrete example, consider the case where a user is trying to find the cause of declining sales. The user enters the initial question, "Why are sales declining?", and a flowchart is generated. Next, the user adds more in-depth questions, such as "Why is marketing effectiveness low?", and updates the flowchart. Marketing data is then imported, and the server displays the relevant analysis results in the flowchart. During this process, the emotion engine recognizes the user's emotions, and if the user is feeling stressed, it can adjust the display content and display appropriate support messages.
[1000] As described above, this system supports efficient decision-making and promotes teamwork by clarifying the issues to be resolved prior to data analysis and eliminating unnecessary analysis. Furthermore, by combining it with an emotion engine, it is possible to provide a more personalized experience that takes into account the user's emotional state.
[1001] The processing flow will be explained below.
[1002] Login and Authentication Process
[1003] Step 1:
[1004] A user opens a browser and enters a URL to access the 5 Why Analysis Tool.
[1005] Step 2:
[1006] The device displays an authentication screen and provides a form for entering a username and password.
[1007] Step 3:
[1008] The user enters their authentication information and clicks the Login button.
[1009] Step 4:
[1010] The terminal transmits the entered authentication information to the server.
[1011] Step 5:
[1012] The server checks the received authentication information against a database and generates a result of authentication success or failure.
[1013] Step 6:
[1014] The server returns the authentication result to the terminal.
[1015] Step 7:
[1016] If the device is successfully authenticated, the main screen of the analysis tool is displayed. If authentication fails, an error message is displayed.
[1017] Entering initial questions and generating flowcharts
[1018] Step 1:
[1019] The user clicks the "New Analysis" button.
[1020] Step 2:
[1021] The terminal displays a form for entering initial questions.
[1022] Step 3:
[1023] The user enters an initial question and clicks the submit button.
[1024] Step 4:
[1025] The terminal transmits the input initial question to the server.
[1026] Step 5:
[1027] The server stores the received initial question in a database.
[1028] Step 6:
[1029] The server generates an initial node from the initial question and returns it to the terminal.
[1030] Step 7:
[1031] The initial node received by the terminal is displayed as the initial node in the flowchart.
[1032] Enter new "why" questions and update the flowchart
[1033] Step 1:
[1034] The user clicks on the node they want to add (e.g., the initial question node).
[1035] Step 2:
[1036] The device will display a form for you to enter a new "why" question.
[1037] Step 3:
[1038] The user enters a new "why" question and clicks the submit button.
[1039] Step 4:
[1040] The device sends the entered "why" question to the server.
[1041] Step 5:
[1042] The server stores the received "why" questions in a database and generates related nodes.
[1043] Step 6:
[1044] The server returns the updated flowchart to the terminal.
[1045] Step 7:
[1046] The terminal displays the updated flowchart and adds a new "Why" node.
[1047] Data import and analysis
[1048] Step 1:
[1049] User clicks the data import button.
[1050] Step 2:
[1051] The terminal displays a file selection dialog.
[1052] Step 3:
[1053] The user selects the file to import and clicks the submit button.
[1054] Step 4:
[1055] The terminal transmits the selected data file to the server.
[1056] Step 5:
[1057] The server parses the received data file and extracts information relevant to the problem.
[1058] Step 6:
[1059] The server stores the extracted data in a database and updates the corresponding node in the flowchart.
[1060] Step 7:
[1061] The server returns the analysis results to the terminal.
[1062] Step 8:
[1063] The terminal displays the analysis results at the relevant node in the flowchart, allowing the user to check the details.
[1064] Use of collaboration features
[1065] Step 1:
[1066] The user clicks the Share button.
[1067] Step 2:
[1068] The device displays a screen for selecting members to share with.
[1069] Step 3:
[1070] The user enters the email address of the member with whom the user wants to share and clicks the send button.
[1071] Step 4:
[1072] The device sends a share request to the server.
[1073] Step 5:
[1074] The server processes the received request and sends notifications to the selected members.
[1075] Step 6:
[1076] The server grants shared access and provides shared data to members.
[1077] Step 7:
[1078] When the shared member logs in, the device displays the shared flowchart and related data.
[1079] Step 8:
[1080] Members can review the shared data and add their opinions.
[1081] Collaboration with emotion engine
[1082] Step 1:
[1083] When a user logs in or performs an operation, the terminal transmits the user's facial expressions, voice, input speed, etc. to the emotion engine.
[1084] Step 2:
[1085] The emotion engine analyzes emotions from the user's input and actions and sends the results to the server.
[1086] Step 3:
[1087] The server passes a command to the terminal to adjust the content displayed on the interface based on the received emotional data.
[1088] Step 4:
[1089] The device receives instructions from the server, changes the interface display, and displays appropriate feedback and support messages.
[1090] Step 5:
[1091] The emotion engine saves the user's emotion history and stores it in a database.
[1092] Step 6:
[1093] When a user repeatedly uses the system, the device refers to the user's emotional history and personalizes the display content and assistance based on past emotional data.
[1094] Example 2
[1095] 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."
[1096] Conventional data analysis tools have the drawback of being unable to efficiently identify the root cause of a problem and are unable to provide feedback or assistance that reflects the user's emotional state. To solve this issue, it is necessary not only to make the data analysis process visually easy to understand, but also to provide a personalized experience that takes the user's emotional state into account.
[1097] 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.
[1098] In this invention, the server includes a means for displaying the analysis process in a flowchart format, a means for recording information and inferences at each step, and a means for analyzing the user's emotional state to adjust the interface display content and display appropriate feedback and support messages, thereby improving the efficiency of data analysis and enabling the user to receive optimal support according to their emotional state.
[1099] "Analysis process" refers to a series of tasks including data acquisition, analysis, and display of results.
[1100] A "flowchart format" is a diagram format used to visually represent procedures and processes.
[1101] "Information" refers to data entered by users and analysis results generated by the system.
[1102] "Inference" refers to the process of drawing conclusions based on given data or information.
[1103] "User" refers to an individual or organization that uses this system.
[1104] An "initial question" refers to a basic question that a user enters at the beginning of the data analysis process.
[1105] An "initial node" refers to the first step in a flowchart that is generated based on an initial question.
[1106] A "new why question" refers to a question that a user adds to further explore the initial question.
[1107] "Project team member" refers to an individual or group working together on a particular project.
[1108] "Relevant information" refers to all data and materials related to the flowchart and data analysis.
[1109] An "emotion analysis engine" refers to software or algorithms used to analyze a user's emotional state.
[1110] "Interface display content" refers to the on-screen information and messages that the system displays to the user.
[1111] "Feedback" refers to information or messages that a system provides in response to a user's actions or input.
[1112] "Support messages" refer to messages that provide appropriate support when users use the system.
[1113] "Authentication Information" refers to information used to identify and authenticate a user, such as a user name and password.
[1114] "Authentication" refers to the process by which a system verifies a user's identity and grants access rights.
[1115] "Main screen" refers to the basic work screen that is first displayed after a user logs in.
[1116] "Data file" refers to a file containing electronic data that is imported for analysis.
[1117] "Analysis results" refers to conclusions or findings obtained through the analysis of data.
[1118] This invention relates to a "Why-Why Analysis Tool" that uses "Why-Why Analysis" to identify the root cause of a problem during data analysis, supporting efficient decision-making and teamwork. Furthermore, by combining it with an emotion engine that recognizes the user's emotions, it provides a more effective analysis process. This system displays the analysis process in a flowchart format, allowing users to record information and inferences at each step.
[1119] The basic structure of the system consists of a server, a device, a user, and an emotion engine, which work together. The server stores, authenticates, and analyzes data, while the device sends information entered by the user to the server and receives and displays the results. The user enters various data and performs operations to further the analysis. The emotion engine recognizes the user's emotions and influences the entire system to provide a more personalized experience.
[1120] Hardware and software used
[1121] Server: Stores, authenticates, and analyzes data using a database (e.g., MySQL). Executes APIs and performs data analysis using a programming language such as Python.
[1122] Terminal: Provides the user interface using a web browser or dedicated app. The front end is built using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.
[1123] Emotion Engine: Uses emotion recognition APIs (e.g., Microsoft Azure Emotion API) to analyze user emotions.
[1124] This system works in the following example: Consider a case where a user is trying to find the cause of declining sales. The user enters the initial question, "Why are sales declining?", and a flowchart is generated. Next, the user adds more in-depth questions, such as "Why is marketing effectiveness low?", and updates the flowchart. Furthermore, marketing data is imported, and the server displays the relevant analysis results in the flowchart. During this process, the emotion engine recognizes the user's emotions, and if the user is feeling stressed, it can adjust the display content and display appropriate support messages.
[1125] Example prompts for generative AI models
[1126] The following prompt is for a scenario in which a probing "why" question is added to a question such as "Why are sales declining?", allowing emotions to play a role.
[1127] prompt:
[1128] A user is investigating the cause of declining sales. They enter "Why are sales declining?" as the initial question. They then follow up with "Why is marketing effectiveness low?" The user imports marketing data, and the system analyzes the data and notifies the results. Please create a scenario in which the user begins to feel stressed during this process, which is communicated to the emotion engine and an appropriate support message is displayed from the server.
[1129] The flow of the identification process in the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.
[1130] Step 1:
[1131] The user enters their login information and accesses the system.
[1132] Input: Username and Password (e.g. "example_p" and "1234")
[1133] How it works: The device sends this information to the server, which checks it against the authentication information in its database.
[1134] Output: If authentication is successful, the server instructs the terminal to display the main screen, otherwise it returns an error message.
[1135] Step 2:
[1136] The user enters an initial question and clicks the "New Analysis" button.
[1137] Input: Initial question (e.g., "Why are sales declining?")
[1138] Operation: The device sends an initial question to the server, which stores it in a database and generates an initial node.
[1139] Output: The server returns the information of the initial node to the terminal and displays it in a flowchart format.
[1140] Step 3:
[1141] The user clicks on an existing node and enters a new "why" question.
[1142] Enter: New question (e.g., "Why is my marketing not working?")
[1143] How it works: The device sends a new question to the server, which stores it in the database and creates a new node.
[1144] Output: The server sends the updated flowchart back to the device for display.
[1145] Step 4:
[1146] The user selects a data file and imports it.
[1147] Input: Data file (e.g. marketing data file)
[1148] How it works: The device sends a data file to the server, which then analyzes the data, extracts relevant information, and stores it in a database.
[1149] Output: The server reflects the analysis results in a flowchart and sends it back to the terminal for display.
[1150] Step 5:
[1151] The user clicks the "Share" button and selects project members.
[1152] Input: Selection information of members to share
[1153] How it works: The device sends a sharing request to the server, and the server sends notifications to selected members.
[1154] Output: The flowchart and related data are displayed on the device of each collaborator, allowing them to give their opinions and make corrections.
[1155] Step 6:
[1156] The terminal transmits the user's emotional state to the emotion engine.
[1157] Input: User's emotional state (e.g., stress)
[1158] How it works: The emotion engine analyzes the user's emotional state and sends the results to the server.
[1159] Output: The server adjusts the interface display and displays appropriate feedback and assistance messages on the terminal.
[1160] (Application example 2)
[1161] 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."
[1162] Conventional "5-Why Analysis" tools do not take the user's emotions into consideration and the analysis process proceeds mechanically, which can cause stress and frustration for the user. Furthermore, when solving problems on the factory floor, ignoring the emotional factors that arise on the shop floor prevents optimal decision-making and promotion of teamwork.
[1163] The specific processing by the specific processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in Application Example 2 is realized by the following means. In this invention, the server includes means for displaying the analysis process in flowchart form, means for recording data and inferences at each step, means for generating an initial node based on an initial question entered by the user, means for displaying the generated flowchart to the user, means for generating a new node based on a new "why" question entered and updating the flowchart, means for sharing the flowchart and related data with project members through a sharing function, and means for recognizing the user's emotions using an emotion engine and providing personalized feedback. This enables the user to effectively identify the root cause of a problem while promoting decision-making and teamwork that take emotional aspects into consideration.
[1164] An "analytical process" is a set of steps for systematically evaluating data to identify causes of problems and solutions.
[1165] A "flowchart format" is a diagram made up of shapes and arrows to visually represent a process or procedure.
[1166] "Inference" is the process of logically drawing conclusions based on given information and data.
[1167] An "initial question" is the first question posed to find the initial cause of a problem.
[1168] An "initial node" is the first point in a flowchart where the analysis process begins.
[1169] A "new why question" is a new question added to dig deeper into a particular problem.
[1170] The "sharing function" is a means for sharing information and data among project members and stakeholders.
[1171] An "emotion engine" is a technology that recognizes a user's emotions and adjusts the system's behavior and feedback based on those emotions.
[1172] "Personalized feedback" refers to customized responses or advice tailored to a user's individual emotional state and needs.
[1173] The "import button" is an operation button that the user uses to import external data into the system.
[1174] "Analysis results" refer to the conclusions and findings obtained during the data analysis process.
[1175] "Support messages" are messages of advice or support provided to users in the process of resolving a problem.
[1176] This invention relates to a factory efficiency support assistant system, which performs "5-why analysis" to identify the root cause of a problem while taking into account the user's emotions. The following explains how to specifically implement this system.
[1177] Hardware and Software Configuration
[1178] Hardware
[1179] Terminal: Robot terminal used in the factory (industrial PC, etc.)
[1180] Server: A powerful computer for storing, authenticating, and analyzing data
[1181] Emotion engine: a dedicated device or software module for analyzing user emotions
[1182] software
[1183] Flask: a web application framework
[1184] SQLite: A lightweight relational database management system
[1185] EmotionEngine: Software for recognizing and analyzing user emotions
[1186] Data processing and calculation
[1187] 1. Login and authentication process:
[1188] The user sends login information from the terminal to the server, and the server authenticates by checking it against an SQLite database.
[1189] If authentication is successful, the user is directed to the main screen of the analysis tool.
[1190] At the same time, the emotion engine analyzes the user's emotional state and adjusts the interface accordingly.
[1191] 2. "5-Why Analysis":
[1192] The user enters an initial question into the terminal, which then sends it to the server.
[1193] The server stores the question in a database, generates an initial node, and sends it back to the terminal, which displays the node in a flowchart format.
[1194] Each time the user enters a new "why" question, the server generates a new node and sends an updated flowchart back to the device.
[1195] 3. Data import and analysis:
[1196] The user clicks the import button, selects a data file, and sends it from the device to the server.
[1197] The server analyzes the received data and reflects the information related to the particular node in the flow chart.
[1198] Updated analysis results are displayed on the device so users can view the details.
[1199] 4. Emotional Engine Feedback:
[1200] The server detects the user's stress and frustration based on data from the emotion engine.
[1201] Appropriate support messages are generated and displayed on the device, allowing users to proceed with their analysis in a relaxed manner.
[1202] Examples of concrete examples and prompts
[1203] As a concrete example, consider a case where a user is trying to find the cause of a machine breakdown in a factory. After entering their login information and being authenticated, the user enters the initial question "Why did the machine break down?" on the main screen. A flowchart is generated based on this, and then new questions such as "Why didn't this part work?" are added to dig deeper. During this process, the server updates specific nodes based on the data imported by the user, and the emotion engine analyzes the user's emotional state and provides appropriate feedback.
[1204] Prompt Sentence Examples
[1205] "Please enter your username and password."
[1206] "Why did the machine stop?"
[1207] "Why didn't this part work?"
[1208] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 2 will be described with reference to FIG.
[1209] Step 1:
[1210] The terminal displays a login screen, and the user enters their username and password. The authentication information entered by the user is sent from the terminal to the server. The server compares the received authentication information with a database (SQLite) and authenticates the user. If authentication is successful, the server instructs the terminal to display the main screen. If authentication fails, an error message is displayed.
[1211] Input: Username, Password
[1212] Output: Main screen display (if authentication is successful), error message (if authentication fails)
[1213] Step 2:
[1214] The user clicks the "New Analysis" button on the main screen and enters an initial question. The terminal sends this initial question to the server. The server stores the received initial question in a database and generates an initial node. The generated initial node is displayed on the terminal in a flowchart format.
[1215] Input: Initial question
[1216] Output: Generate initial question nodes and display flowchart
[1217] Step 3:
[1218] The user clicks on a particular node and enters a new "why" question. The device sends this new question to the server. The server saves the new question in the database, creates a new node, and updates the flowchart. The updated flowchart is sent to the device and displayed to the user.
[1219] Enter: a new "why" question
[1220] Output: New nodes are created, the flowchart is updated and displayed
[1221] Step 4:
[1222] The user clicks the Import button to select a data file to use for analysis. The terminal sends the selected data file to the server. The server receives the data and performs analysis. The analyzed data is associated with the specific node in question and updates the flowchart. The updated analysis results are sent to the terminal and displayed to the user.
[1223] Input: Data file
[1224] Output: Data analysis results, updated flowchart display
[1225] Step 5:
[1226] The user clicks the "Share" button and selects project members. The device sends a sharing request to the server. The server notifies the selected members and shares the flowchart and related data. When the sharing members log in, the device displays the shared flowchart and related data, allowing them to add or modify their opinions.
[1227] Input: Project member selection
[1228] Output: Share flowcharts and related data, view shared content
[1229] Step 6:
[1230] When a user logs in or performs an operation, the device sends the user's input and actions to the emotion engine. The emotion engine analyzes the user's emotions and sends the results to the server. Based on the emotion data, the server adjusts the interface display content and instructs the device to display appropriate feedback and support messages. The emotion engine saves the user's emotion history and stores it in a database.
[1231] Input: User input and behavior data
[1232] Output: Sentiment analysis results, interface display adjustments, support messages
[1233] Through this process, users can receive emotional support while efficiently identifying the root cause of the problem.
[1234] 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.
[1235] 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.
[1236] 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.
[1237] [Third embodiment]
[1238] FIG. 5 shows an example of the configuration of a data processing system 310 according to the third embodiment.
[1239] 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.
[1240] 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).
[1241] 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.
[1242] 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.
[1243] 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).
[1244] 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.
[1245] 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.
[1246] 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.
[1247] 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.
[1248] 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.
[1249] 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."
[1250] This invention relates to a "Why-Why Analysis Tool" that uses "Why-Why Analysis" to identify the root cause of a problem during data analysis, and supports efficient decision-making and the promotion of teamwork. This system displays the analysis process in a flowchart format and can record data and inferences at each step.
[1251] The basic structure of the system consists of a server, a terminal, and a user, which work together. The server stores, authenticates, and analyzes data, while the terminal sends information entered by the user to the server and receives and displays the results. The user enters various data and performs operations to advance the analysis.
[1252] 1. Login and authentication process:
[1253] - A user accesses the system through a browser and enters login information (user name and password), which is then sent to the server.
[1254] - The server checks the entered authentication information against the database, and if authentication is successful, it prompts the user to display the main screen of the analysis tool. If authentication fails, it returns an error message to the terminal.
[1255] 2. Entering initial questions and generating a flowchart:
[1256] - The user clicks the "New Analysis" button and enters an initial question, which the device sends to the server.
[1257] - The server saves the input initial question in a database, generates an initial node, and returns it to the terminal. The terminal displays the initial question in a flowchart format.
[1258] 3. Enter new "why" questions and update the flowchart:
[1259] - The user clicks on a particular node and enters a new "why" question, which the device sends to the server.
[1260] - The server saves the new "why" question in the database, creates a new node and updates its position on the flowchart, and sends the updated flowchart to the device for display to the user.
[1261] 4. Data import and analysis:
[1262] - The user clicks the button to import data and selects the file, and the terminal sends the selected data file to the server.
[1263] - The server analyzes the received data, extracts information related to the problem, and stores it in a database. Based on the analysis results, it updates the relevant node in the flowchart and returns a response to the terminal. The terminal then displays the analysis results in the node, allowing the user to check the details.
[1264] 5. Use of Collaboration Features:
[1265] - The user clicks the "Share" button and selects project members. The device sends a share request to the server.
[1266] - The server will send a notification to the selected members to share the flowchart and related data. When the sharing member logs in, the shared flowchart and related data will be displayed on the device, and the member can add or modify their comments.
[1267] As a concrete example, consider a case where a user is trying to find the cause of declining sales. The user enters the initial question, "Why are sales declining?", and a corresponding flowchart is generated. Next, the user adds a probing question, such as "Why is marketing effectiveness low?", and updates the flowchart. Furthermore, marketing data is imported, and the server displays the relevant analysis results in the flowchart. This allows the user to identify the root cause of the problem and find an efficient solution.
[1268] As described above, the present invention is a system that supports efficient decision-making and promotes teamwork by clarifying the issues to be resolved prior to data analysis and eliminating unnecessary analysis.
[1269] The processing flow will be explained below.
[1270] Login and Authentication Process
[1271] Step 1:
[1272] A user opens a browser and enters a URL to access the 5 Why Analysis Tool.
[1273] Step 2:
[1274] The device displays an authentication screen and provides a form for entering a username and password.
[1275] Step 3:
[1276] The user enters their authentication information and clicks the Login button.
[1277] Step 4:
[1278] The terminal transmits the entered authentication information to the server.
[1279] Step 5:
[1280] The server checks the received authentication information against a database and generates a result of authentication success or failure.
[1281] Step 6:
[1282] The server returns the authentication result to the terminal.
[1283] Step 7:
[1284] If the device is successfully authenticated, the main screen of the analysis tool is displayed. If authentication fails, an error message is displayed.
[1285] Entering initial questions and generating flowcharts
[1286] Step 1:
[1287] The user clicks the "New Analysis" button.
[1288] Step 2:
[1289] The terminal displays a form for entering initial questions.
[1290] Step 3:
[1291] The user enters an initial question and clicks the submit button.
[1292] Step 4:
[1293] The terminal transmits the input initial question to the server.
[1294] Step 5:
[1295] The server stores the received initial question in a database.
[1296] Step 6:
[1297] The server generates an initial node from the initial question and returns it to the terminal.
[1298] Step 7:
[1299] The initial node received by the terminal is displayed as the initial node in the flowchart.
[1300] Enter new "why" questions and update the flowchart
[1301] Step 1:
[1302] The user clicks on the node they want to add (e.g., the initial question node).
[1303] Step 2:
[1304] The device will display a form for you to enter a new "why" question.
[1305] Step 3:
[1306] The user enters a new "why" question and clicks the submit button.
[1307] Step 4:
[1308] The device sends the entered "why" question to the server.
[1309] Step 5:
[1310] The server stores the received "why" questions in a database and generates related nodes.
[1311] Step 6:
[1312] The server returns the updated flowchart to the terminal.
[1313] Step 7:
[1314] The terminal displays the updated flowchart and adds a new "Why" node.
[1315] Data import and analysis
[1316] Step 1:
[1317] User clicks the data import button.
[1318] Step 2:
[1319] The terminal displays a file selection dialog.
[1320] Step 3:
[1321] The user selects the file to import and clicks the submit button.
[1322] Step 4:
[1323] The terminal transmits the selected data file to the server.
[1324] Step 5:
[1325] The server parses the received data file and extracts information relevant to the problem.
[1326] Step 6:
[1327] The server stores the extracted data in a database and updates the corresponding node in the flowchart.
[1328] Step 7:
[1329] The server returns the analysis results to the terminal.
[1330] Step 8:
[1331] The terminal displays the analysis results at the relevant node in the flowchart, allowing the user to check the details.
[1332] Use of collaboration features
[1333] Step 1:
[1334] The user clicks the Share button.
[1335] Step 2:
[1336] The device displays a screen for selecting members to share with.
[1337] Step 3:
[1338] The user enters the email address of the member with whom the user wants to share and clicks the send button.
[1339] Step 4:
[1340] The device sends a share request to the server.
[1341] Step 5:
[1342] The server processes the received request and sends notifications to the selected members.
[1343] Step 6:
[1344] The server grants shared access and provides shared data to members.
[1345] Step 7:
[1346] When the shared member logs in, the device displays the shared flowchart and related data.
[1347] Step 8:
[1348] Members can review the shared data and add their opinions.
[1349] Example 1
[1350] 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."
[1351] There is a lack of efficient methods for identifying the root causes of problems in data analysis. Furthermore, collaboration between teams is often difficult, preventing smooth sharing of information and exchange of opinions. This results in delayed decision-making and wasted effort and time.
[1352] 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.
[1353] In this invention, the server includes a means for generating an initial node based on an initial question entered by a user, a means for analyzing data imported by a user and updating the corresponding node in the flowchart, and a means for sharing the flowchart and related data with project members through a sharing function, thereby enabling efficient identification of the root cause of problems and effective collaboration among users.
[1354] "Means for displaying in a flowchart format" refers to a display device and software for displaying information entered by a user in a visually easy-to-understand format.
[1355] "Means for recording data and inferences" refers to recording devices and software that store and enable reference to data entered by users and inferences automatically generated by the system.
[1356] "Means for generating an initial node" refers to a program and device for generating a node that serves as the starting point for analysis based on an initial question entered by a user and displaying it on a flowchart.
[1357] "Means for updating a flowchart" refers to a program and device that receives a new "why" question entered by a user, generates a new node based on that question, and adds or modifies an existing flowchart.
[1358] "Sharing Function" refers to the function that allows multiple users involved in a project to share flowcharts and related data and access and edit them in real time.
[1359] "Means for entering login information" refers to the input devices and interfaces through which users enter their usernames and passwords to authenticate themselves when accessing the system.
[1360] "Means for authentication" refers to a program and device that allows the server to check the user's login information against a database and confirm that the user is a legitimate user.
[1361] "Import Button" means an interface button that enables a User to select a data file from their device and upload it to the System.
[1362] "Means for analyzing data" refers to programs and devices for analyzing data files received by the server and extracting information relevant to solving the problem.
[1363] "Means for displaying the analysis results to the user" refers to a display device and software for transmitting the analysis results generated by the server to the user's terminal and displaying them in a visually easy-to-understand format.
[1364] This invention relates to a "5-Why Analysis Tool" that helps improve the efficiency of data analysis and identify the root causes of problems. This system works in cooperation with a server, terminals, and users, and displays the analysis process in a flowchart format, allowing data and inferences to be recorded at each step.
[1365] The basic configuration of the system is as follows:
[1366] 1. Server Functions
[1367] The server has the function of generating an initial node based on the initial question entered by the user. This initial question is saved in the database, and an initial node is generated and returned to the terminal. When the user enters a new "why" question, the server saves this question in the database, generates a new node, updates its position on the flowchart, and sends it back to the terminal. The server also has the function of analyzing the data imported by the user and updating the corresponding node in the flowchart based on the analysis results. As a result, the analysis results are displayed on the user's terminal.
[1368] 2. Device Features
[1369] The terminal is responsible for sending information entered by the user to the server and receiving and displaying responses from the server. When the user enters login information, the terminal sends this information to the server for authentication. If authentication is successful, the main screen of the analysis tool is displayed on the terminal. When the user enters an initial question or a new "why" question, the terminal sends this to the server and displays the generated flowchart. In addition, when the user imports data, the terminal sends the data to the server and receives and displays the analysis results.
[1370] 3. User Operation
[1371] Users access the system through a browser and enter their login information to log in. After logging in, users can click the "New Analysis" button to enter an initial question, and a flowchart will be generated. Users can also click on specific nodes to enter new "why" questions and update the flowchart. If data analysis is required, users can click the "Import Data" button, select the data file they want to analyze, and import it. The analysis results will then be reflected in the flowchart. They can also use the sharing function to share flowcharts and related data with project members and work together to solve problems.
[1372] Specific operation example
[1373] If a user wants to find the cause of declining sales, they enter an initial question: "Why are sales declining?" An initial node is generated based on this question, and a flowchart is displayed. Next, a new "why" question is added: "Why is marketing effectiveness low?" The flowchart is updated. The user then imports marketing data, and the server analyzes the data and extracts relevant information. Analysis results, such as "There is a lack of reach to the target demographic," are displayed in the flowchart, allowing the user to view the details.
[1374] Prompt Sentence Examples
[1375] For example, the following prompt sentence is used:
[1376] Start with an initial question: "Why are sales declining?", import your marketing data, and present the analysis results in a flowchart. Explain the reasons in detail.
[1377] The present invention allows users to efficiently identify the root cause of problems and make effective decisions, while the flow chart display and sharing capabilities promote teamwork.
[1378] The flow of the identification process in the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.
[1379] Processing step flow
[1380] Step 1: Login and Authentication
[1381] 1.1 The user opens the login page.
[1382] (Input) Access the login page in your browser.
[1383] (Output) The login page is displayed.
[1384] 1.2 The user enters their username and password and clicks the login button.
[1385] (Input) The user name and password are entered.
[1386] (Output) The input information is sent to the server.
[1387] 1.3 The terminal sends the user's input information to the server.
[1388] (Input) The transmission of input information by a terminal.
[1389] (Output) Authentication information is sent to the server.
[1390] 1.4 The server connects to the database and verifies the input information.
[1391] (Input) The server accesses the database to check the authentication information.
[1392] (Output) The authentication result (success / failure) is obtained.
[1393] 1.5 The server returns the authentication result to the terminal.
[1394] (Input) Authentication result sent from the server.
[1395] (Output) The authentication result will be displayed on the terminal. If successful, the main screen will be displayed, and if unsuccessful, an error message will be displayed.
[1396] Step 2: Enter initial questions and generate flowcharts
[1397] 2.1 User clicks the "New Analysis" button.
[1398] (Input) User click action.
[1399] (Output) The initial question input screen will be displayed.
[1400] 2.2 The user enters the initial question and clicks the submit button.
[1401] (Input) An initial question is entered.
[1402] (Output) The initial question is sent to the server.
[1403] 2.3 The device sends an initial question to the server.
[1404] (Input) Sending an initial question by the terminal.
[1405] (Output) An initial query is sent to the server.
[1406] 2.4 The server saves the initial question in the database and generates the initial node.
[1407] (Input) A request to the server to save the initial question.
[1408] (Output) Generate and save the initial node.
[1409] 2.5 The server returns the generated initial node to the terminal.
[1410] (Input) Sends initial node creation information.
[1411] (Output) The initial question node is displayed on the terminal.
[1412] 2.6 The terminal displays the initial questions in a flowchart format.
[1413] (Input) Initial node information from the server.
[1414] (Output) The initial questions are displayed in a flowchart format.
[1415] Step 3: Enter new "why" questions and update your flowchart
[1416] 3.1 The user clicks on a specific node.
[1417] (Input) User click action.
[1418] (Output) A screen for entering a new "why" question will appear.
[1419] 3.2 User enters a new "why" question and clicks submit.
[1420] (Input) A new "why" question is entered.
[1421] (Output) The new question is sent to the server.
[1422] 3.3 The device sends a new question to the server.
[1423] (Input) Submitting a question via the terminal.
[1424] (Output) A new question is sent to the server.
[1425] 3.4 The server saves the new question in the database, creates a new node and updates its position on the flowchart.
[1426] (Input) A request to the server to save the question.
[1427] (Output) New nodes are created and the flowchart is updated.
[1428] 3.5 The server returns the updated flowchart to the terminal.
[1429] (Input) Send update information.
[1430] (Output) The updated flowchart is sent to the terminal.
[1431] 3.6 The device displays the updated flowchart to the user.
[1432] (Input) Update information from the server.
[1433] (Output) The updated flowchart is displayed.
[1434] Step 4: Import and analyze data
[1435] 4.1 The user clicks the "Import Data" button.
[1436] (Input) User click action.
[1437] (Output) A file selection dialog will appear.
[1438] 4.2 User selects the file to import and clicks the Submit button.
[1439] The (input) data file is selected.
[1440] (Output) The file is sent to the server.
[1441] 4.3 The device sends the selected data file to the server.
[1442] (Input) Sending files via terminal.
[1443] (Output) The file is sent to the server.
[1444] 4.4 The server receives the data file and begins analysis.
[1445] (Input) Receives a file to the server.
[1446] (Output) Data analysis begins.
[1447] 4.5 The server updates the relevant node in the flowchart based on the analysis results and saves them in the database.
[1448] (Input) Generation of data analysis results.
[1449] (Output) Save the analysis results and update the flowchart.
[1450] 4.6 The server sends the updated flowchart and analysis results back to the device.
[1451] (Input) Send update information.
[1452] (Output) Analysis results and update information are sent to the terminal.
[1453] 4.7 The terminal displays the analysis results in the nodes of the flowchart.
[1454] (Input) Analysis result information from the server.
[1455] (Output) The analysis results are displayed in the nodes of the flowchart.
[1456] Step 5: Use collaboration features
[1457] 5.1 User clicks the "Share" button.
[1458] (Input) User click action.
[1459] (Output) The sharing member selection screen will be displayed.
[1460] 5.2 The user selects the project members with whom they want to share and clicks the send button.
[1461] (Input) Selection of project members.
[1462] (Output) A share request is sent to the server.
[1463] 5.3 The device sends a share request to the server.
[1464] (Input) Submit a share request.
[1465] (Output) The request is sent to the server.
[1466] 5.4 The server sends notifications to selected members.
[1467] (Input) Sending a sharing notification.
[1468] (Output) Shared members will be notified.
[1469] 5.5 When a sharing member logs in, the device displays the shared flowchart and related data.
[1470] (Input) Login information of the sharing member.
[1471] (Output) Display of shared data.
[1472] 5.6 Shared members will be able to add or modify their opinions.
[1473] (Input) Flowchart editing operations.
[1474] (Output) The edited content is reflected.
[1475] The above are the specific processing steps of the "5-why analysis tool" of the present invention.
[1476] (Application example 1)
[1477] 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."
[1478] Conventional data analysis methods have the drawback of making it difficult to identify the root cause of problems, making it difficult to promote efficient decision-making and teamwork. This is particularly true in factory robot production lines, where troubleshooting and optimizing production efficiency are difficult and quick responses are required.
[1479] 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.
[1480] In this invention, the server includes means for displaying the analysis process in flowchart form, means for recording data and inferences at each step, means for generating initial nodes based on an initial question entered by the user, means for displaying the generated flowchart to the user, means for generating new nodes based on new "why" questions entered and updating the flowchart, means for sharing the flowchart and related data with project members through a sharing function, and means for importing robot production data and updating the corresponding nodes in the flowchart based on the analysis results. This makes it possible to quickly and efficiently solve problems with factory robots and improve production efficiency.
[1481] An "analytical process" refers to a series of steps that analyze data or information to arrive at a specific result.
[1482] "Flowchart format" refers to a method of visually representing each step in a process or system using arrows and symbols.
[1483] "Data" refers to facts and information that have been converted into numbers, symbols, etc.
[1484] "Inference" refers to logically drawing a conclusion from given information and premises.
[1485] An "initial question" refers to the first question entered by the user at the start of the analysis process.
[1486] An "initial node" refers to the first point created in a flowchart based on an initial question.
[1487] A "new why question" refers to a new question that is added to dig deeper into an existing node.
[1488] A "new node" refers to a new point created in the flowchart based on a new "why" question.
[1489] "Sharing function" refers to the function that allows multiple users or members to jointly use data and flowcharts.
[1490] "Robot production data" refers to information such as robot performance and operation logs related to the production process.
[1491] "Analysis results" refers to the conclusions and findings obtained during the data analysis process.
[1492] This invention is a system that includes a "5-5 analysis tool" aimed at improving production efficiency and troubleshooting factory robots. This system consists of a server, a terminal, and a user. The server stores, authenticates, and analyzes data, while the terminal transmits information entered by the user to the server and receives and displays the results. The user enters various data and performs operations to advance the analysis.
[1493] 1. Login and authentication process:
[1494] The user accesses the system through a browser and enters login information (user name and password), which is then sent to the server.
[1495] The server checks the entered authentication information against a database, and if authentication is successful, it prompts the user to display the main screen of the analysis tool. If authentication fails, it returns an error message to the terminal.
[1496] 2. Entering initial questions and generating a flowchart:
[1497] The user clicks the "New Analysis" button and enters an initial question, which the terminal sends to the server.
[1498] The server stores the input initial question in a database, generates an initial node, and returns it to the terminal, which displays the initial question in a flowchart format.
[1499] 3. Enter new "why" questions and update the flowchart:
[1500] The user clicks on a particular node and enters a new "why" question, which the device sends to the server.
[1501] The server saves the new "why" question in the database, creates a new node and updates its position on the flowchart, and sends the updated flowchart to the device for display to the user.
[1502] 4. Data import and analysis:
[1503] The user clicks the button to import data, selects the file, and the terminal sends the selected data file to the server.
[1504] The server analyzes the received data, extracts information related to the problem, and stores it in a database. Based on the analysis results, it updates the relevant node in the flowchart and sends a response to the terminal. The terminal then displays the analysis results in the node, allowing the user to check the details.
[1505] 5. Use of Collaboration Features:
[1506] The user clicks the "Share" button and selects project members. The device then sends a share request to the server.
[1507] The server will send a notification to the selected members to share the flowchart and related data. When the sharing members log in, their devices will display the shared flowchart and related data, and the members can add their opinions.
[1508] Hardware and software used
[1509] Hardware: Regular PCs or laptops are used as servers and terminals. Various sensors and their control devices are also required to acquire data from the factory robots.
[1510] Software: The server uses a web framework such as Flask, and the database uses a relational database management system such as PostgreSQL. The terminal uses a web browser to provide the user interface, and also uses Python and other analysis tools as needed.
[1511] Examples of concrete examples and prompts
[1512] As a concrete example, consider the case of identifying the cause of a decline in the efficiency of a robot production line in a factory. For example, the user enters an initial question, "Why is the efficiency of the production line declining?", and a corresponding flowchart is generated. Next, the user adds a more in-depth question, such as "Why is the equipment failure rate so high?", and updates the flowchart. Furthermore, by importing equipment maintenance data and the server displaying the related analysis results in the flowchart, the user can identify the root cause of the problem and find an efficient solution.
[1513] Prompt example (text format)
[1514] Username: user1
[1515] Password: password123
[1516] Initial question: Why is the production line becoming less efficient?
[1517] New question: Why is the equipment failure rate so high?
[1518] Data file path: path / to / data.csv
[1519] Shared members: user2, user3
[1520] By sending these prompts to a server, the system can perform a series of analyses to identify the root causes of productivity declines, making the system a powerful tool for significantly improving factory operational efficiency.
[1521] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 1 will be described with reference to FIG.
[1522] Step 1:
[1523] The user accesses the system through a browser and enters login information (user name and password), which is then sent to the server.
[1524] Input: Username, Password
[1525] Specific operation: The terminal enters the username and password into the input form and sends it to the server as an HTTP request.
[1526] Output: Authentication information sent to the server
[1527] Step 2:
[1528] The server checks the entered authentication information against a database, and if authentication is successful, it prompts the user to display the main screen of the analysis tool. If authentication fails, it returns an error message to the terminal.
[1529] Input: Credentials
[1530] Data processing / calculation: The database is accessed on the server side and the user name and password are verified.
[1531] What it does: Executes a database query and checks credentials
[1532] Output: Authentication result (success or failure)
[1533] Step 3:
[1534] The user clicks the "New Analysis" button and enters an initial question, which the terminal sends to the server.
[1535] Input: Initial question
[1536] Specific actions: Enter an initial question through the user interface and click a button.
[1537] Output: Initial question sent to server
[1538] Step 4:
[1539] The server stores the input initial question in a database, generates an initial node, and returns it to the terminal, which displays the initial question in a flowchart format.
[1540] Input: Initial question
[1541] Data processing / calculation: Store the initial question in the database and process the data to generate new nodes.
[1542] Specific behavior: Save to database and create new node
[1543] Output: Initial node data and initial questions in flowchart format
[1544] Step 5:
[1545] The user clicks on a particular node and enters a new "why" question, which the device sends to the server.
[1546] Enter: a new "why" question
[1547] Specific Action: Click on a specific node, enter a new "why" question, and click the submit button.
[1548] Output: The new "why" question is sent to the server.
[1549] Step 6:
[1550] The server saves the new "why" question in the database, creates a new node and updates its position on the flowchart, and sends the updated flowchart to the device for display to the user.
[1551] Enter: a new "why" question
[1552] Data manipulation / calculation: Processing data to store new "why" questions in the database and update nodes
[1553] What it does: Generates updated nodes and a flowchart
[1554] Output: Updated flowchart data
[1555] Step 7:
[1556] The user clicks the button to import data, selects the file, and the terminal sends the selected data file to the server.
[1557] Input: Data file
[1558] Specific operation: Open the data file selection dialog, select the file, and click the Import button.
[1559] Output: Data files are sent to the server
[1560] Step 8:
[1561] The server analyzes the received data, extracts information related to the problem, and stores it in a database. Based on the analysis results, it updates the relevant node in the flowchart and sends a response to the terminal. The terminal then displays the analysis results in the node, allowing the user to check the details.
[1562] Input: Data file
[1563] Data processing / calculation: Analyze the received data, extract relevant information and store it in a database
[1564] Specific behavior: Runs the data analysis algorithm and updates the corresponding nodes
[1565] Output: Analysis results and updated flowchart
[1566] Step 9:
[1567] The user clicks the "Share" button and selects project members. The device then sends a share request to the server.
[1568] Input: Member list
[1569] Specific operation: Open the project member selection screen, select members, and click the Share button
[1570] Output: A share request is sent to the server
[1571] Step 10:
[1572] The server will send a notification to the selected members to share the flowchart and related data. When the sharing members log in, their devices will display the shared flowchart and related data, and they can add their comments.
[1573] Input: Share request
[1574] Data processing / calculation: Send notifications based on member list and prepare shared data
[1575] Specific behavior: The system notifies members and shares relevant data
[1576] Output: Shared data and notifications
[1577] This allows users to efficiently solve problems with factory robots and improve production efficiency.
[1578] 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.
[1579] This invention relates to a "Why-Why Analysis Tool" that uses "Why-Why Analysis" to identify the root cause of a problem during data analysis, supporting efficient decision-making and promoting teamwork, and further combines it with an emotion engine that recognizes the user's emotions to provide a more effective analysis process. This system displays the analysis process in a flowchart format and can record data and inferences at each step.
[1580] The basic structure of the system consists of a server, a device, a user, and an emotion engine, which work together. The server stores, authenticates, and analyzes data, while the device sends information entered by the user to the server and receives and displays the results. The user enters various data and performs operations to further the analysis. The emotion engine recognizes the user's emotions and influences the entire system to provide a more personalized experience.
[1581] 1. Login and authentication process:
[1582] - A user accesses the system through a browser and enters login information (user name and password), which is then sent to the server.
[1583] - The server checks the entered authentication information against the database, and if authentication is successful, it prompts the user to display the main screen of the analysis tool. If authentication fails, it returns an error message to the terminal.
[1584] 2. Entering initial questions and generating a flowchart:
[1585] - The user clicks the "New Analysis" button and enters an initial question, which the device sends to the server.
[1586] - The server saves the input initial question in a database, generates an initial node, and returns it to the terminal. The terminal displays the initial question in a flowchart format.
[1587] 3. Enter new "why" questions and update the flowchart:
[1588] - The user clicks on a particular node and enters a new "why" question, which the device sends to the server.
[1589] - The server saves the new "why" question in the database, creates a new node and updates its position on the flowchart, and sends the updated flowchart to the device for display to the user.
[1590] 4. Data import and analysis:
[1591] - The user clicks the button to import data and selects the file, and the terminal sends the selected data file to the server.
[1592] - The server analyzes the received data, extracts information related to the problem, and stores it in a database. Based on the analysis results, it updates the relevant node in the flowchart and returns a response to the terminal. The terminal then displays the analysis results in the node, allowing the user to check the details.
[1593] 5. Use of Collaboration Features:
[1594] - The user clicks the "Share" button and selects project members. The device sends a share request to the server.
[1595] - The server will send a notification to the selected members to share the flowchart and related data. When the sharing member logs in, the shared flowchart and related data will be displayed on the device, and the member can add or modify their comments.
[1596] 6. Collaboration with Emotion Engine:
[1597] - When a user logs in or performs an operation, the terminal transmits the user's emotional state to the emotion engine.
[1598] - The emotion engine analyzes emotions from user input and actions and sends the results to the server.
[1599] - The server adjusts the interface display content based on the received emotional data and instructs the device to display appropriate feedback and support messages.
[1600] - The emotion engine saves the user's emotion history and stores it in a database, allowing users to visualize changes in emotion during the analysis process.
[1601] As a concrete example, consider the case where a user is trying to find the cause of declining sales. The user enters the initial question, "Why are sales declining?", and a corresponding flowchart is generated. Next, the user adds more in-depth questions, such as "Why is marketing effectiveness low?", and updates the flowchart. Furthermore, marketing data is imported, and the server displays the relevant analysis results in the flowchart. During this process, the emotion engine recognizes the user's emotions, and if the user is feeling stressed, it can adjust the display content and display appropriate support messages.
[1602] As described above, this system supports efficient decision-making and promotes teamwork by clarifying the issues to be resolved prior to data analysis and eliminating unnecessary analysis. Furthermore, by combining it with an emotion engine, it is possible to provide a more personalized experience that takes into account the user's emotional state.
[1603] The processing flow will be explained below.
[1604] Login and Authentication Process
[1605] Step 1:
[1606] A user opens a browser and enters a URL to access the 5 Why Analysis Tool.
[1607] Step 2:
[1608] The device displays an authentication screen and provides a form for entering a username and password.
[1609] Step 3:
[1610] The user enters their authentication information and clicks the Login button.
[1611] Step 4:
[1612] The terminal transmits the entered authentication information to the server.
[1613] Step 5:
[1614] The server checks the received authentication information against a database and generates a result of authentication success or failure.
[1615] Step 6:
[1616] The server returns the authentication result to the terminal.
[1617] Step 7:
[1618] If the device is successfully authenticated, the main screen of the analysis tool is displayed. If authentication fails, an error message is displayed.
[1619] Entering initial questions and generating flowcharts
[1620] Step 1:
[1621] The user clicks the "New Analysis" button.
[1622] Step 2:
[1623] The terminal displays a form for entering initial questions.
[1624] Step 3:
[1625] The user enters an initial question and clicks the submit button.
[1626] Step 4:
[1627] The terminal transmits the input initial question to the server.
[1628] Step 5:
[1629] The server stores the received initial question in a database.
[1630] Step 6:
[1631] The server generates an initial node from the initial question and returns it to the terminal.
[1632] Step 7:
[1633] The initial node received by the terminal is displayed as the initial node in the flowchart.
[1634] Enter new "why" questions and update the flowchart
[1635] Step 1:
[1636] The user clicks on the node they want to add (e.g., the initial question node).
[1637] Step 2:
[1638] The device will display a form for you to enter a new "why" question.
[1639] Step 3:
[1640] The user enters a new "why" question and clicks the submit button.
[1641] Step 4:
[1642] The device sends the entered "why" question to the server.
[1643] Step 5:
[1644] The server stores the received "why" questions in a database and generates related nodes.
[1645] Step 6:
[1646] The server returns the updated flowchart to the terminal.
[1647] Step 7:
[1648] The terminal displays the updated flowchart and adds a new "Why" node.
[1649] Data import and analysis
[1650] Step 1:
[1651] User clicks the data import button.
[1652] Step 2:
[1653] The terminal displays a file selection dialog.
[1654] Step 3:
[1655] The user selects the file to import and clicks the submit button.
[1656] Step 4:
[1657] The terminal transmits the selected data file to the server.
[1658] Step 5:
[1659] The server parses the received data file and extracts information relevant to the problem.
[1660] Step 6:
[1661] The server stores the extracted data in a database and updates the corresponding node in the flowchart.
[1662] Step 7:
[1663] The server returns the analysis results to the terminal.
[1664] Step 8:
[1665] The terminal displays the analysis results at the relevant node in the flowchart, allowing the user to check the details.
[1666] Use of collaboration features
[1667] Step 1:
[1668] The user clicks the Share button.
[1669] Step 2:
[1670] The device displays a screen for selecting members to share with.
[1671] Step 3:
[1672] The user enters the email address of the member with whom the user wants to share and clicks the send button.
[1673] Step 4:
[1674] The device sends a share request to the server.
[1675] Step 5:
[1676] The server processes the received request and sends notifications to the selected members.
[1677] Step 6:
[1678] The server grants shared access and provides shared data to members.
[1679] Step 7:
[1680] When the shared member logs in, the device displays the shared flowchart and related data.
[1681] Step 8:
[1682] Members can review the shared data and add their opinions.
[1683] Collaboration with emotion engine
[1684] Step 1:
[1685] When a user logs in or performs an operation, the terminal transmits the user's facial expressions, voice, input speed, etc. to the emotion engine.
[1686] Step 2:
[1687] The emotion engine analyzes emotions from the user's input and actions and sends the results to the server.
[1688] Step 3:
[1689] The server passes a command to the terminal to adjust the content displayed on the interface based on the received emotional data.
[1690] Step 4:
[1691] The device receives instructions from the server, changes the interface display, and displays appropriate feedback and support messages.
[1692] Step 5:
[1693] The emotion engine saves the user's emotion history and stores it in a database.
[1694] Step 6:
[1695] When a user repeatedly uses the system, the device refers to the user's emotional history and personalizes the display content and assistance based on past emotional data.
[1696] Example 2
[1697] 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."
[1698] Conventional data analysis tools have the drawback of being unable to efficiently identify the root cause of a problem and are unable to provide feedback or assistance that reflects the user's emotional state. To solve this issue, it is necessary not only to make the data analysis process visually easy to understand, but also to provide a personalized experience that takes the user's emotional state into account.
[1699] 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.
[1700] In this invention, the server includes a means for displaying the analysis process in a flowchart format, a means for recording information and inferences at each step, and a means for analyzing the user's emotional state to adjust the interface display content and display appropriate feedback and support messages, thereby improving the efficiency of data analysis and enabling the user to receive optimal support according to their emotional state.
[1701] "Analysis process" refers to a series of tasks including data acquisition, analysis, and display of results.
[1702] A "flowchart format" is a diagram format used to visually represent procedures and processes.
[1703] "Information" refers to data entered by users and analysis results generated by the system.
[1704] "Inference" refers to the process of drawing conclusions based on given data or information.
[1705] "User" refers to an individual or organization that uses this system.
[1706] An "initial question" refers to a basic question that a user enters at the beginning of the data analysis process.
[1707] An "initial node" refers to the first step in a flowchart that is generated based on an initial question.
[1708] A "new why question" refers to a question that a user adds to further explore the initial question.
[1709] "Project team member" refers to an individual or group working together on a particular project.
[1710] "Relevant information" refers to all data and materials related to the flowchart and data analysis.
[1711] An "emotion analysis engine" refers to software or algorithms used to analyze a user's emotional state.
[1712] "Interface display content" refers to the on-screen information and messages that the system displays to the user.
[1713] "Feedback" refers to information or messages that a system provides in response to a user's actions or input.
[1714] "Support messages" refer to messages that provide appropriate support when users use the system.
[1715] "Authentication Information" refers to information used to identify and authenticate a user, such as a user name and password.
[1716] "Authentication" refers to the process by which a system verifies a user's identity and grants access rights.
[1717] "Main screen" refers to the basic work screen that is first displayed after a user logs in.
[1718] "Data file" refers to a file containing electronic data that is imported for analysis.
[1719] "Analysis results" refers to conclusions or findings obtained through the analysis of data.
[1720] This invention relates to a "Why-Why Analysis Tool" that uses "Why-Why Analysis" to identify the root cause of a problem during data analysis, supporting efficient decision-making and teamwork. Furthermore, by combining it with an emotion engine that recognizes the user's emotions, it provides a more effective analysis process. This system displays the analysis process in a flowchart format, allowing users to record information and inferences at each step.
[1721] The basic structure of the system consists of a server, a device, a user, and an emotion engine, which work together. The server stores, authenticates, and analyzes data, while the device sends information entered by the user to the server and receives and displays the results. The user enters various data and performs operations to further the analysis. The emotion engine recognizes the user's emotions and influences the entire system to provide a more personalized experience.
[1722] Hardware and software used
[1723] Server: Stores, authenticates, and analyzes data using a database (e.g., MySQL). Executes APIs and performs data analysis using a programming language such as Python.
[1724] Terminal: Provides the user interface using a web browser or dedicated app. The front end is built using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.
[1725] Emotion Engine: Uses emotion recognition APIs (e.g., Microsoft Azure Emotion API) to analyze user emotions.
[1726] This system works in the following example: Consider a case where a user is trying to find the cause of declining sales. The user enters the initial question, "Why are sales declining?", and a flowchart is generated. Next, the user adds more in-depth questions, such as "Why is marketing effectiveness low?", and updates the flowchart. Furthermore, marketing data is imported, and the server displays the relevant analysis results in the flowchart. During this process, the emotion engine recognizes the user's emotions, and if the user is feeling stressed, it can adjust the display content and display appropriate support messages.
[1727] Example prompts for generative AI models
[1728] The following prompt is for a scenario in which a probing "why" question is added to a question such as "Why are sales declining?", allowing emotions to play a role.
[1729] prompt:
[1730] A user is investigating the cause of declining sales. They enter "Why are sales declining?" as the initial question. They then follow up with "Why is marketing effectiveness low?" The user imports marketing data, and the system analyzes the data and notifies the results. Please create a scenario in which the user begins to feel stressed during this process, which is communicated to the emotion engine and an appropriate support message is displayed from the server.
[1731] The flow of the identification process in the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.
[1732] Step 1:
[1733] The user enters their login information and accesses the system.
[1734] Input: Username and Password (e.g. "example_p" and "1234")
[1735] How it works: The device sends this information to the server, which checks it against the authentication information in its database.
[1736] Output: If authentication is successful, the server instructs the terminal to display the main screen, otherwise it returns an error message.
[1737] Step 2:
[1738] The user enters an initial question and clicks the "New Analysis" button.
[1739] Input: Initial question (e.g., "Why are sales declining?")
[1740] Operation: The device sends an initial question to the server, which stores it in a database and generates an initial node.
[1741] Output: The server returns the information of the initial node to the terminal and displays it in a flowchart format.
[1742] Step 3:
[1743] The user clicks on an existing node and enters a new "why" question.
[1744] Enter: New question (e.g., "Why is my marketing not working?")
[1745] How it works: The device sends a new question to the server, which stores it in the database and creates a new node.
[1746] Output: The server sends the updated flowchart back to the device for display.
[1747] Step 4:
[1748] The user selects a data file and imports it.
[1749] Input: Data file (e.g. marketing data file)
[1750] How it works: The device sends a data file to the server, which then analyzes the data, extracts relevant information, and stores it in a database.
[1751] Output: The server reflects the analysis results in a flowchart and sends it back to the terminal for display.
[1752] Step 5:
[1753] The user clicks the "Share" button and selects project members.
[1754] Input: Selection information of members to share
[1755] How it works: The device sends a sharing request to the server, and the server sends notifications to selected members.
[1756] Output: The flowchart and related data are displayed on the device of each collaborator, allowing them to give their opinions and make corrections.
[1757] Step 6:
[1758] The terminal transmits the user's emotional state to the emotion engine.
[1759] Input: User's emotional state (e.g., stress)
[1760] How it works: The emotion engine analyzes the user's emotional state and sends the results to the server.
[1761] Output: The server adjusts the interface display and displays appropriate feedback and assistance messages on the terminal.
[1762] (Application example 2)
[1763] 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."
[1764] Conventional "5-Why Analysis" tools do not take the user's emotions into consideration and the analysis process proceeds mechanically, which can cause stress and frustration for the user. Furthermore, when solving problems on the factory floor, ignoring the emotional factors that arise on the shop floor prevents optimal decision-making and promotion of teamwork.
[1765] The specific processing by the specific processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in Application Example 2 is realized by the following means. In this invention, the server includes means for displaying the analysis process in flowchart form, means for recording data and inferences at each step, means for generating an initial node based on an initial question entered by the user, means for displaying the generated flowchart to the user, means for generating a new node based on a new "why" question entered and updating the flowchart, means for sharing the flowchart and related data with project members through a sharing function, and means for recognizing the user's emotions using an emotion engine and providing personalized feedback. This enables the user to effectively identify the root cause of a problem while promoting decision-making and teamwork that take emotional aspects into consideration.
[1766] An "analytical process" is a set of steps for systematically evaluating data to identify causes of problems and solutions.
[1767] A "flowchart format" is a diagram made up of shapes and arrows to visually represent a process or procedure.
[1768] "Inference" is the process of logically drawing conclusions based on given information and data.
[1769] An "initial question" is the first question posed to find the initial cause of a problem.
[1770] An "initial node" is the first point in a flowchart where the analysis process begins.
[1771] A "new why question" is a new question added to dig deeper into a particular problem.
[1772] The "sharing function" is a means for sharing information and data among project members and stakeholders.
[1773] An "emotion engine" is a technology that recognizes a user's emotions and adjusts the system's behavior and feedback based on those emotions.
[1774] "Personalized feedback" refers to customized responses or advice tailored to a user's individual emotional state and needs.
[1775] The "import button" is an operation button that the user uses to import external data into the system.
[1776] "Analysis results" refer to the conclusions and findings obtained during the data analysis process.
[1777] "Support messages" are messages of advice or support provided to users in the process of resolving a problem.
[1778] This invention relates to a factory efficiency support assistant system, which performs "5-why analysis" to identify the root cause of a problem while taking into account the user's emotions. The following explains how to specifically implement this system.
[1779] Hardware and Software Configuration
[1780] Hardware
[1781] Terminal: Robot terminal used in the factory (industrial PC, etc.)
[1782] Server: A powerful computer for storing, authenticating, and analyzing data
[1783] Emotion engine: a dedicated device or software module for analyzing user emotions
[1784] software
[1785] Flask: a web application framework
[1786] SQLite: A lightweight relational database management system
[1787] EmotionEngine: Software for recognizing and analyzing user emotions
[1788] Data processing and calculation
[1789] 1. Login and authentication process:
[1790] The user sends login information from the terminal to the server, and the server authenticates by checking it against an SQLite database.
[1791] If authentication is successful, the user is directed to the main screen of the analysis tool.
[1792] At the same time, the emotion engine analyzes the user's emotional state and adjusts the interface accordingly.
[1793] 2. "5-Why Analysis":
[1794] The user enters an initial question into the terminal, which then sends it to the server.
[1795] The server stores the question in a database, generates an initial node, and sends it back to the terminal, which displays the node in a flowchart format.
[1796] Each time the user enters a new "why" question, the server generates a new node and sends an updated flowchart back to the device.
[1797] 3. Data import and analysis:
[1798] The user clicks the import button, selects a data file, and sends it from the device to the server.
[1799] The server analyzes the received data and reflects the information related to the particular node in the flow chart.
[1800] Updated analysis results are displayed on the device so users can view the details.
[1801] 4. Emotional Engine Feedback:
[1802] The server detects the user's stress and frustration based on data from the emotion engine.
[1803] Appropriate support messages are generated and displayed on the device, allowing users to proceed with their analysis in a relaxed manner.
[1804] Examples of concrete examples and prompts
[1805] As a concrete example, consider a case where a user is trying to find the cause of a machine breakdown in a factory. After entering their login information and being authenticated, the user enters the initial question "Why did the machine break down?" on the main screen. A flowchart is generated based on this, and then new questions such as "Why didn't this part work?" are added to dig deeper. During this process, the server updates specific nodes based on the data imported by the user, and the emotion engine analyzes the user's emotional state and provides appropriate feedback.
[1806] Prompt Sentence Examples
[1807] "Please enter your username and password."
[1808] "Why did the machine stop?"
[1809] "Why didn't this part work?"
[1810] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 2 will be described with reference to FIG.
[1811] Step 1:
[1812] The terminal displays a login screen, and the user enters their username and password. The authentication information entered by the user is sent from the terminal to the server. The server compares the received authentication information with a database (SQLite) and authenticates the user. If authentication is successful, the server instructs the terminal to display the main screen. If authentication fails, an error message is displayed.
[1813] Input: Username, Password
[1814] Output: Main screen display (if authentication is successful), error message (if authentication fails)
[1815] Step 2:
[1816] The user clicks the "New Analysis" button on the main screen and enters an initial question. The terminal sends this initial question to the server. The server stores the received initial question in a database and generates an initial node. The generated initial node is displayed on the terminal in a flowchart format.
[1817] Input: Initial question
[1818] Output: Generate initial question nodes and display flowchart
[1819] Step 3:
[1820] The user clicks on a particular node and enters a new "why" question. The device sends this new question to the server. The server saves the new question in the database, creates a new node, and updates the flowchart. The updated flowchart is sent to the device and displayed to the user.
[1821] Enter: a new "why" question
[1822] Output: New nodes are created, the flowchart is updated and displayed
[1823] Step 4:
[1824] The user clicks the Import button to select a data file to use for analysis. The terminal sends the selected data file to the server. The server receives the data and performs analysis. The analyzed data is associated with the specific node in question and updates the flowchart. The updated analysis results are sent to the terminal and displayed to the user.
[1825] Input: Data file
[1826] Output: Data analysis results, updated flowchart display
[1827] Step 5:
[1828] The user clicks the "Share" button and selects project members. The device sends a sharing request to the server. The server notifies the selected members and shares the flowchart and related data. When the sharing members log in, the device displays the shared flowchart and related data, allowing them to add or modify their opinions.
[1829] Input: Project member selection
[1830] Output: Share flowcharts and related data, view shared content
[1831] Step 6:
[1832] When a user logs in or performs an operation, the device sends the user's input and actions to the emotion engine. The emotion engine analyzes the user's emotions and sends the results to the server. Based on the emotion data, the server adjusts the interface display content and instructs the device to display appropriate feedback and support messages. The emotion engine saves the user's emotion history and stores it in a database.
[1833] Input: User input and behavior data
[1834] Output: Sentiment analysis results, interface display adjustments, support messages
[1835] Through this process, users can receive emotional support while efficiently identifying the root cause of the problem.
[1836] 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.
[1837] 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.
[1838] 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.
[1839] [Fourth embodiment]
[1840] FIG. 7 shows an example of the configuration of a data processing system 410 according to the fourth embodiment.
[1841] 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.
[1842] 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).
[1843] 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.
[1844] 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.
[1845] 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).
[1846] 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.
[1847] 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.
[1848] 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.
[1849] 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.
[1850] 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.
[1851] 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.
[1852] 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."
[1853] This invention relates to a "Why-Why Analysis Tool" that uses "Why-Why Analysis" to identify the root cause of a problem during data analysis, and supports efficient decision-making and the promotion of teamwork. This system displays the analysis process in a flowchart format and can record data and inferences at each step.
[1854] The basic structure of the system consists of a server, a terminal, and a user, which work together. The server stores, authenticates, and analyzes data, while the terminal sends information entered by the user to the server and receives and displays the results. The user enters various data and performs operations to advance the analysis.
[1855] 1. Login and authentication process:
[1856] - A user accesses the system through a browser and enters login information (user name and password), which is then sent to the server.
[1857] - The server checks the entered authentication information against the database, and if authentication is successful, it prompts the user to display the main screen of the analysis tool. If authentication fails, it returns an error message to the terminal.
[1858] 2. Entering initial questions and generating a flowchart:
[1859] - The user clicks the "New Analysis" button and enters an initial question, which the device sends to the server.
[1860] - The server saves the input initial question in a database, generates an initial node, and returns it to the terminal. The terminal displays the initial question in a flowchart format.
[1861] 3. Enter new "why" questions and update the flowchart:
[1862] - The user clicks on a particular node and enters a new "why" question, which the device sends to the server.
[1863] - The server saves the new "why" question in the database, creates a new node and updates its position on the flowchart, and sends the updated flowchart to the device for display to the user.
[1864] 4. Data import and analysis:
[1865] - The user clicks the button to import data and selects the file, and the terminal sends the selected data file to the server.
[1866] - The server analyzes the received data, extracts information related to the problem, and stores it in a database. Based on the analysis results, it updates the relevant node in the flowchart and returns a response to the terminal. The terminal then displays the analysis results in the node, allowing the user to check the details.
[1867] 5. Use of Collaboration Features:
[1868] - The user clicks the "Share" button and selects project members. The device sends a share request to the server.
[1869] - The server will send a notification to the selected members to share the flowchart and related data. When the sharing member logs in, the shared flowchart and related data will be displayed on the device, and the member can add or modify their comments.
[1870] As a concrete example, consider a case where a user is trying to find the cause of declining sales. The user enters the initial question, "Why are sales declining?", and a corresponding flowchart is generated. Next, the user adds a probing question, such as "Why is marketing effectiveness low?", and updates the flowchart. Furthermore, marketing data is imported, and the server displays the relevant analysis results in the flowchart. This allows the user to identify the root cause of the problem and find an efficient solution.
[1871] As described above, the present invention is a system that supports efficient decision-making and promotes teamwork by clarifying the issues to be resolved prior to data analysis and eliminating unnecessary analysis.
[1872] The processing flow will be explained below.
[1873] Login and Authentication Process
[1874] Step 1:
[1875] A user opens a browser and enters a URL to access the 5 Why Analysis Tool.
[1876] Step 2:
[1877] The device displays an authentication screen and provides a form for entering a username and password.
[1878] Step 3:
[1879] The user enters their authentication information and clicks the Login button.
[1880] Step 4:
[1881] The terminal transmits the entered authentication information to the server.
[1882] Step 5:
[1883] The server checks the received authentication information against a database and generates a result of authentication success or failure.
[1884] Step 6:
[1885] The server returns the authentication result to the terminal.
[1886] Step 7:
[1887] If the device is successfully authenticated, the main screen of the analysis tool is displayed. If authentication fails, an error message is displayed.
[1888] Entering initial questions and generating flowcharts
[1889] Step 1:
[1890] The user clicks the "New Analysis" button.
[1891] Step 2:
[1892] The terminal displays a form for entering initial questions.
[1893] Step 3:
[1894] The user enters an initial question and clicks the submit button.
[1895] Step 4:
[1896] The terminal transmits the input initial question to the server.
[1897] Step 5:
[1898] The server stores the received initial question in a database.
[1899] Step 6:
[1900] The server generates an initial node from the initial question and returns it to the terminal.
[1901] Step 7:
[1902] The initial node received by the terminal is displayed as the initial node in the flowchart.
[1903] Enter new "why" questions and update the flowchart
[1904] Step 1:
[1905] The user clicks on the node they want to add (e.g., the initial question node).
[1906] Step 2:
[1907] The device will display a form for you to enter a new "why" question.
[1908] Step 3:
[1909] The user enters a new "why" question and clicks the submit button.
[1910] Step 4:
[1911] The device sends the entered "why" question to the server.
[1912] Step 5:
[1913] The server stores the received "why" questions in a database and generates related nodes.
[1914] Step 6:
[1915] The server returns the updated flowchart to the terminal.
[1916] Step 7:
[1917] The terminal displays the updated flowchart and adds a new "Why" node.
[1918] Data import and analysis
[1919] Step 1:
[1920] User clicks the data import button.
[1921] Step 2:
[1922] The terminal displays a file selection dialog.
[1923] Step 3:
[1924] The user selects the file to import and clicks the submit button.
[1925] Step 4:
[1926] The terminal transmits the selected data file to the server.
[1927] Step 5:
[1928] The server parses the received data file and extracts information relevant to the problem.
[1929] Step 6:
[1930] The server stores the extracted data in a database and updates the corresponding node in the flowchart.
[1931] Step 7:
[1932] The server returns the analysis results to the terminal.
[1933] Step 8:
[1934] The terminal displays the analysis results at the relevant node in the flowchart, allowing the user to check the details.
[1935] Use of collaboration features
[1936] Step 1:
[1937] The user clicks the Share button.
[1938] Step 2:
[1939] The device displays a screen for selecting members to share with.
[1940] Step 3:
[1941] The user enters the email address of the member with whom the user wants to share and clicks the send button.
[1942] Step 4:
[1943] The device sends a share request to the server.
[1944] Step 5:
[1945] The server processes the received request and sends notifications to the selected members.
[1946] Step 6:
[1947] The server grants shared access and provides shared data to members.
[1948] Step 7:
[1949] When the shared member logs in, the device displays the shared flowchart and related data.
[1950] Step 8:
[1951] Members can review the shared data and add their opinions.
[1952] Example 1
[1953] 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."
[1954] There is a lack of efficient methods for identifying the root causes of problems in data analysis. Furthermore, collaboration between teams is often difficult, preventing smooth sharing of information and exchange of opinions. This results in delayed decision-making and wasted effort and time.
[1955] 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.
[1956] In this invention, the server includes a means for generating an initial node based on an initial question entered by a user, a means for analyzing data imported by a user and updating the corresponding node in the flowchart, and a means for sharing the flowchart and related data with project members through a sharing function, thereby enabling efficient identification of the root cause of problems and effective collaboration among users.
[1957] "Means for displaying in a flowchart format" refers to a display device and software for displaying information entered by a user in a visually easy-to-understand format.
[1958] "Means for recording data and inferences" refers to recording devices and software that store and enable reference to data entered by users and inferences automatically generated by the system.
[1959] "Means for generating an initial node" refers to a program and device for generating a node that serves as the starting point for analysis based on an initial question entered by a user and displaying it on a flowchart.
[1960] "Means for updating a flowchart" refers to a program and device that receives a new "why" question entered by a user, generates a new node based on that question, and adds or modifies an existing flowchart.
[1961] "Sharing Function" refers to the function that allows multiple users involved in a project to share flowcharts and related data and access and edit them in real time.
[1962] "Means for entering login information" refers to the input devices and interfaces through which users enter their usernames and passwords to authenticate themselves when accessing the system.
[1963] "Means for authentication" refers to a program and device that allows the server to check the user's login information against a database and confirm that the user is a legitimate user.
[1964] "Import Button" means an interface button that enables a User to select a data file from their device and upload it to the System.
[1965] "Means for analyzing data" refers to programs and devices for analyzing data files received by the server and extracting information relevant to solving the problem.
[1966] "Means for displaying the analysis results to the user" refers to a display device and software for transmitting the analysis results generated by the server to the user's terminal and displaying them in a visually easy-to-understand format.
[1967] This invention relates to a "5-Why Analysis Tool" that helps improve the efficiency of data analysis and identify the root causes of problems. This system works in cooperation with a server, terminals, and users, and displays the analysis process in a flowchart format, allowing data and inferences to be recorded at each step.
[1968] The basic configuration of the system is as follows:
[1969] 1. Server Functions
[1970] The server has the function of generating an initial node based on the initial question entered by the user. This initial question is saved in the database, and an initial node is generated and returned to the terminal. When the user enters a new "why" question, the server saves this question in the database, generates a new node, updates its position on the flowchart, and sends it back to the terminal. The server also has the function of analyzing the data imported by the user and updating the corresponding node in the flowchart based on the analysis results. As a result, the analysis results are displayed on the user's terminal.
[1971] 2. Device Features
[1972] The terminal is responsible for sending information entered by the user to the server and receiving and displaying responses from the server. When the user enters login information, the terminal sends this information to the server for authentication. If authentication is successful, the main screen of the analysis tool is displayed on the terminal. When the user enters an initial question or a new "why" question, the terminal sends this to the server and displays the generated flowchart. In addition, when the user imports data, the terminal sends the data to the server and receives and displays the analysis results.
[1973] 3. User Operation
[1974] Users access the system through a browser and enter their login information to log in. After logging in, users can click the "New Analysis" button to enter an initial question, and a flowchart will be generated. Users can also click on specific nodes to enter new "why" questions and update the flowchart. If data analysis is required, users can click the "Import Data" button, select the data file they want to analyze, and import it. The analysis results will then be reflected in the flowchart. They can also use the sharing function to share flowcharts and related data with project members and work together to solve problems.
[1975] Specific operation example
[1976] If a user wants to find the cause of declining sales, they enter an initial question: "Why are sales declining?" An initial node is generated based on this question, and a flowchart is displayed. Next, a new "why" question is added: "Why is marketing effectiveness low?" The flowchart is updated. The user then imports marketing data, and the server analyzes the data and extracts relevant information. Analysis results, such as "There is a lack of reach to the target demographic," are displayed in the flowchart, allowing the user to view the details.
[1977] Prompt Sentence Examples
[1978] For example, the following prompt sentence is used:
[1979] Start with an initial question: "Why are sales declining?", import your marketing data, and present the analysis results in a flowchart. Explain the reasons in detail.
[1980] The present invention allows users to efficiently identify the root cause of problems and make effective decisions, while the flow chart display and sharing capabilities promote teamwork.
[1981] The flow of the identification process in the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.
[1982] Processing step flow
[1983] Step 1: Login and Authentication
[1984] 1.1 The user opens the login page.
[1985] (Input) Access the login page in your browser.
[1986] (Output) The login page is displayed.
[1987] 1.2 The user enters their username and password and clicks the login button.
[1988] (Input) The user name and password are entered.
[1989] (Output) The input information is sent to the server.
[1990] 1.3 The terminal sends the user's input information to the server.
[1991] (Input) The transmission of input information by a terminal.
[1992] (Output) Authentication information is sent to the server.
[1993] 1.4 The server connects to the database and verifies the input information.
[1994] (Input) The server accesses the database to check the authentication information.
[1995] (Output) The authentication result (success / failure) is obtained.
[1996] 1.5 The server returns the authentication result to the terminal.
[1997] (Input) Authentication result sent from the server.
[1998] (Output) The authentication result will be displayed on the terminal. If successful, the main screen will be displayed, and if unsuccessful, an error message will be displayed.
[1999] Step 2: Enter initial questions and generate flowcharts
[2000] 2.1 User clicks the "New Analysis" button.
[2001] (Input) User click action.
[2002] (Output) The initial question input screen will be displayed.
[2003] 2.2 The user enters the initial question and clicks the submit button.
[2004] (Input) An initial question is entered.
[2005] (Output) The initial question is sent to the server.
[2006] 2.3 The device sends an initial question to the server.
[2007] (Input) Sending an initial question by the terminal.
[2008] (Output) An initial query is sent to the server.
[2009] 2.4 The server saves the initial question in the database and generates the initial node.
[2010] (Input) A request to the server to save the initial question.
[2011] (Output) Generate and save the initial node.
[2012] 2.5 The server returns the generated initial node to the terminal.
[2013] (Input) Sends initial node creation information.
[2014] (Output) The initial question node is displayed on the terminal.
[2015] 2.6 The terminal displays the initial questions in a flowchart format.
[2016] (Input) Initial node information from the server.
[2017] (Output) The initial questions are displayed in a flowchart format.
[2018] Step 3: Enter new "why" questions and update your flowchart
[2019] 3.1 The user clicks on a specific node.
[2020] (Input) User click action.
[2021] (Output) A screen for entering a new "why" question will appear.
[2022] 3.2 User enters a new "why" question and clicks submit.
[2023] (Input) A new "why" question is entered.
[2024] (Output) The new question is sent to the server.
[2025] 3.3 The device sends a new question to the server.
[2026] (Input) Submitting a question via the terminal.
[2027] (Output) A new question is sent to the server.
[2028] 3.4 The server saves the new question in the database, creates a new node and updates its position on the flowchart.
[2029] (Input) A request to the server to save the question.
[2030] (Output) New nodes are created and the flowchart is updated.
[2031] 3.5 The server returns the updated flowchart to the terminal.
[2032] (Input) Send update information.
[2033] (Output) The updated flowchart is sent to the terminal.
[2034] 3.6 The device displays the updated flowchart to the user.
[2035] (Input) Update information from the server.
[2036] (Output) The updated flowchart is displayed.
[2037] Step 4: Import and analyze data
[2038] 4.1 The user clicks the "Import Data" button.
[2039] (Input) User click action.
[2040] (Output) A file selection dialog will appear.
[2041] 4.2 User selects the file to import and clicks the Submit button.
[2042] The (input) data file is selected.
[2043] (Output) The file is sent to the server.
[2044] 4.3 The device sends the selected data file to the server.
[2045] (Input) Sending files via terminal.
[2046] (Output) The file is sent to the server.
[2047] 4.4 The server receives the data file and begins analysis.
[2048] (Input) Receives a file to the server.
[2049] (Output) Data analysis begins.
[2050] 4.5 The server updates the relevant node in the flowchart based on the analysis results and saves them in the database.
[2051] (Input) Generation of data analysis results.
[2052] (Output) Save the analysis results and update the flowchart.
[2053] 4.6 The server sends the updated flowchart and analysis results back to the device.
[2054] (Input) Send update information.
[2055] (Output) Analysis results and update information are sent to the terminal.
[2056] 4.7 The terminal displays the analysis results in the nodes of the flowchart.
[2057] (Input) Analysis result information from the server.
[2058] (Output) The analysis results are displayed in the nodes of the flowchart.
[2059] Step 5: Use collaboration features
[2060] 5.1 User clicks the "Share" button.
[2061] (Input) User click action.
[2062] (Output) The sharing member selection screen will be displayed.
[2063] 5.2 The user selects the project members with whom they want to share and clicks the send button.
[2064] (Input) Selection of project members.
[2065] (Output) A share request is sent to the server.
[2066] 5.3 The device sends a share request to the server.
[2067] (Input) Submit a share request.
[2068] (Output) The request is sent to the server.
[2069] 5.4 The server sends notifications to selected members.
[2070] (Input) Sending a sharing notification.
[2071] (Output) Shared members will be notified.
[2072] 5.5 When a sharing member logs in, the device displays the shared flowchart and related data.
[2073] (Input) Login information of the sharing member.
[2074] (Output) Display of shared data.
[2075] 5.6 Shared members will be able to add or modify their opinions.
[2076] (Input) Flowchart editing operations.
[2077] (Output) The edited content is reflected.
[2078] The above are the specific processing steps of the "5-why analysis tool" of the present invention.
[2079] (Application example 1)
[2080] 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."
[2081] Conventional data analysis methods have the drawback of making it difficult to identify the root cause of problems, making it difficult to promote efficient decision-making and teamwork. This is particularly true in factory robot production lines, where troubleshooting and optimizing production efficiency are difficult and quick responses are required.
[2082] 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.
[2083] In this invention, the server includes means for displaying the analysis process in flowchart form, means for recording data and inferences at each step, means for generating initial nodes based on an initial question entered by the user, means for displaying the generated flowchart to the user, means for generating new nodes based on new "why" questions entered and updating the flowchart, means for sharing the flowchart and related data with project members through a sharing function, and means for importing robot production data and updating the corresponding nodes in the flowchart based on the analysis results. This makes it possible to quickly and efficiently solve problems with factory robots and improve production efficiency.
[2084] An "analytical process" refers to a series of steps that analyze data or information to arrive at a specific result.
[2085] "Flowchart format" refers to a method of visually representing each step in a process or system using arrows and symbols.
[2086] "Data" refers to facts and information that have been converted into numbers, symbols, etc.
[2087] "Inference" refers to logically drawing a conclusion from given information and premises.
[2088] An "initial question" refers to the first question entered by the user at the start of the analysis process.
[2089] An "initial node" refers to the first point created in a flowchart based on an initial question.
[2090] A "new why question" refers to a new question that is added to dig deeper into an existing node.
[2091] A "new node" refers to a new point created in the flowchart based on a new "why" question.
[2092] "Sharing function" refers to the function that allows multiple users or members to jointly use data and flowcharts.
[2093] "Robot production data" refers to information such as robot performance and operation logs related to the production process.
[2094] "Analysis results" refers to the conclusions and findings obtained during the data analysis process.
[2095] This invention is a system that includes a "5-5 analysis tool" aimed at improving production efficiency and troubleshooting factory robots. This system consists of a server, a terminal, and a user. The server stores, authenticates, and analyzes data, while the terminal transmits information entered by the user to the server and receives and displays the results. The user enters various data and performs operations to advance the analysis.
[2096] 1. Login and authentication process:
[2097] The user accesses the system through a browser and enters login information (user name and password), which is then sent to the server.
[2098] The server checks the entered authentication information against a database, and if authentication is successful, it prompts the user to display the main screen of the analysis tool. If authentication fails, it returns an error message to the terminal.
[2099] 2. Entering initial questions and generating a flowchart:
[2100] The user clicks the "New Analysis" button and enters an initial question, which the terminal sends to the server.
[2101] The server stores the input initial question in a database, generates an initial node, and returns it to the terminal, which displays the initial question in a flowchart format.
[2102] 3. Enter new "why" questions and update the flowchart:
[2103] The user clicks on a particular node and enters a new "why" question, which the device sends to the server.
[2104] The server saves the new "why" question in the database, creates a new node and updates its position on the flowchart, and sends the updated flowchart to the device for display to the user.
[2105] 4. Data import and analysis:
[2106] The user clicks the button to import data, selects the file, and the terminal sends the selected data file to the server.
[2107] The server analyzes the received data, extracts information related to the problem, and stores it in a database. Based on the analysis results, it updates the relevant node in the flowchart and sends a response to the terminal. The terminal then displays the analysis results in the node, allowing the user to check the details.
[2108] 5. Use of Collaboration Features:
[2109] The user clicks the "Share" button and selects project members. The device then sends a share request to the server.
[2110] The server will send a notification to the selected members to share the flowchart and related data. When the sharing members log in, their devices will display the shared flowchart and related data, and the members can add their opinions.
[2111] Hardware and software used
[2112] Hardware: Regular PCs or laptops are used as servers and terminals. Various sensors and their control devices are also required to acquire data from the factory robots.
[2113] Software: The server uses a web framework such as Flask, and the database uses a relational database management system such as PostgreSQL. The terminal uses a web browser to provide the user interface, and also uses Python and other analysis tools as needed.
[2114] Examples of concrete examples and prompts
[2115] As a concrete example, consider the case of identifying the cause of a decline in the efficiency of a robot production line in a factory. For example, the user enters an initial question, "Why is the efficiency of the production line declining?", and a corresponding flowchart is generated. Next, the user adds a more in-depth question, such as "Why is the equipment failure rate so high?", and updates the flowchart. Furthermore, by importing equipment maintenance data and the server displaying the related analysis results in the flowchart, the user can identify the root cause of the problem and find an efficient solution.
[2116] Prompt example (text format)
[2117] Username: user1
[2118] Password: password123
[2119] Initial question: Why is the production line becoming less efficient?
[2120] New question: Why is the equipment failure rate so high?
[2121] Data file path: path / to / data.csv
[2122] Shared members: user2, user3
[2123] By sending these prompts to a server, the system can perform a series of analyses to identify the root causes of productivity declines, making the system a powerful tool for significantly improving factory operational efficiency.
[2124] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 1 will be described with reference to FIG.
[2125] Step 1:
[2126] The user accesses the system through a browser and enters login information (user name and password), which is then sent to the server.
[2127] Input: Username, Password
[2128] Specific operation: The terminal enters the username and password into the input form and sends it to the server as an HTTP request.
[2129] Output: Authentication information sent to the server
[2130] Step 2:
[2131] The server checks the entered authentication information against a database, and if authentication is successful, it prompts the user to display the main screen of the analysis tool. If authentication fails, it returns an error message to the terminal.
[2132] Input: Credentials
[2133] Data processing / calculation: The database is accessed on the server side and the user name and password are verified.
[2134] What it does: Executes a database query and checks credentials
[2135] Output: Authentication result (success or failure)
[2136] Step 3:
[2137] The user clicks the "New Analysis" button and enters an initial question, which the terminal sends to the server.
[2138] Input: Initial question
[2139] Specific actions: Enter an initial question through the user interface and click a button.
[2140] Output: Initial question sent to server
[2141] Step 4:
[2142] The server stores the input initial question in a database, generates an initial node, and returns it to the terminal, which displays the initial question in a flowchart format.
[2143] Input: Initial question
[2144] Data processing / calculation: Store the initial question in the database and process the data to generate new nodes.
[2145] Specific behavior: Save to database and create new node
[2146] Output: Initial node data and initial questions in flowchart format
[2147] Step 5:
[2148] The user clicks on a particular node and enters a new "why" question, which the device sends to the server.
[2149] Enter: a new "why" question
[2150] Specific Action: Click on a specific node, enter a new "why" question, and click the submit button.
[2151] Output: The new "why" question is sent to the server.
[2152] Step 6:
[2153] The server saves the new "why" question in the database, creates a new node and updates its position on the flowchart, and sends the updated flowchart to the device for display to the user.
[2154] Enter: a new "why" question
[2155] Data manipulation / calculation: Processing data to store new "why" questions in the database and update nodes
[2156] What it does: Generates updated nodes and a flowchart
[2157] Output: Updated flowchart data
[2158] Step 7:
[2159] The user clicks the button to import data, selects the file, and the terminal sends the selected data file to the server.
[2160] Input: Data file
[2161] Specific operation: Open the data file selection dialog, select the file, and click the Import button.
[2162] Output: Data files are sent to the server
[2163] Step 8:
[2164] The server analyzes the received data, extracts information related to the problem, and stores it in a database. Based on the analysis results, it updates the relevant node in the flowchart and sends a response to the terminal. The terminal then displays the analysis results in the node, allowing the user to check the details.
[2165] Input: Data file
[2166] Data processing / calculation: Analyze the received data, extract relevant information and store it in a database
[2167] Specific behavior: Runs the data analysis algorithm and updates the corresponding nodes
[2168] Output: Analysis results and updated flowchart
[2169] Step 9:
[2170] The user clicks the "Share" button and selects project members. The device then sends a share request to the server.
[2171] Input: Member list
[2172] Specific operation: Open the project member selection screen, select members, and click the Share button
[2173] Output: A share request is sent to the server
[2174] Step 10:
[2175] The server will send a notification to the selected members to share the flowchart and related data. When the sharing members log in, their devices will display the shared flowchart and related data, and they can add their comments.
[2176] Input: Share request
[2177] Data processing / calculation: Send notifications based on member list and prepare shared data
[2178] Specific behavior: The system notifies members and shares relevant data
[2179] Output: Shared data and notifications
[2180] This allows users to efficiently solve problems with factory robots and improve production efficiency.
[2181] 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.
[2182] This invention relates to a "Why-Why Analysis Tool" that uses "Why-Why Analysis" to identify the root cause of a problem during data analysis, supporting efficient decision-making and promoting teamwork, and further combines it with an emotion engine that recognizes the user's emotions to provide a more effective analysis process. This system displays the analysis process in a flowchart format and can record data and inferences at each step.
[2183] The basic structure of the system consists of a server, a device, a user, and an emotion engine, which work together. The server stores, authenticates, and analyzes data, while the device sends information entered by the user to the server and receives and displays the results. The user enters various data and performs operations to further the analysis. The emotion engine recognizes the user's emotions and influences the entire system to provide a more personalized experience.
[2184] 1. Login and authentication process:
[2185] - A user accesses the system through a browser and enters login information (user name and password), which is then sent to the server.
[2186] - The server checks the entered authentication information against the database, and if authentication is successful, it prompts the user to display the main screen of the analysis tool. If authentication fails, it returns an error message to the terminal.
[2187] 2. Entering initial questions and generating a flowchart:
[2188] - The user clicks the "New Analysis" button and enters an initial question, which the device sends to the server.
[2189] - The server saves the input initial question in a database, generates an initial node, and returns it to the terminal. The terminal displays the initial question in a flowchart format.
[2190] 3. Enter new "why" questions and update the flowchart:
[2191] - The user clicks on a particular node and enters a new "why" question, which the device sends to the server.
[2192] - The server saves the new "why" question in the database, creates a new node and updates its position on the flowchart, and sends the updated flowchart to the device for display to the user.
[2193] 4. Data import and analysis:
[2194] - The user clicks the button to import data and selects the file, and the terminal sends the selected data file to the server.
[2195] - The server analyzes the received data, extracts information related to the problem, and stores it in a database. Based on the analysis results, it updates the relevant node in the flowchart and returns a response to the terminal. The terminal then displays the analysis results in the node, allowing the user to check the details.
[2196] 5. Use of Collaboration Features:
[2197] - The user clicks the "Share" button and selects project members. The device sends a share request to the server.
[2198] - The server will send a notification to the selected members to share the flowchart and related data. When the sharing member logs in, the shared flowchart and related data will be displayed on the device, and the member can add or modify their comments.
[2199] 6. Collaboration with Emotion Engine:
[2200] - When a user logs in or performs an operation, the terminal transmits the user's emotional state to the emotion engine.
[2201] - The emotion engine analyzes emotions from user input and actions and sends the results to the server.
[2202] - The server adjusts the interface display content based on the received emotional data and instructs the device to display appropriate feedback and support messages.
[2203] - The emotion engine saves the user's emotion history and stores it in a database, allowing users to visualize changes in emotion during the analysis process.
[2204] As a concrete example, consider the case where a user is trying to find the cause of declining sales. The user enters the initial question, "Why are sales declining?", and a corresponding flowchart is generated. Next, the user adds more in-depth questions, such as "Why is marketing effectiveness low?", and updates the flowchart. Furthermore, marketing data is imported, and the server displays the relevant analysis results in the flowchart. During this process, the emotion engine recognizes the user's emotions, and if the user is feeling stressed, it can adjust the display content and display appropriate support messages.
[2205] As described above, this system supports efficient decision-making and promotes teamwork by clarifying the issues to be resolved prior to data analysis and eliminating unnecessary analysis. Furthermore, by combining it with an emotion engine, it is possible to provide a more personalized experience that takes into account the user's emotional state.
[2206] The processing flow will be explained below.
[2207] Login and Authentication Process
[2208] Step 1:
[2209] A user opens a browser and enters a URL to access the 5 Why Analysis Tool.
[2210] Step 2:
[2211] The device displays an authentication screen and provides a form for entering a username and password.
[2212] Step 3:
[2213] The user enters their authentication information and clicks the Login button.
[2214] Step 4:
[2215] The terminal transmits the entered authentication information to the server.
[2216] Step 5:
[2217] The server checks the received authentication information against a database and generates a result of authentication success or failure.
[2218] Step 6:
[2219] The server returns the authentication result to the terminal.
[2220] Step 7:
[2221] If the device is successfully authenticated, the main screen of the analysis tool is displayed. If authentication fails, an error message is displayed.
[2222] Entering initial questions and generating flowcharts
[2223] Step 1:
[2224] The user clicks the "New Analysis" button.
[2225] Step 2:
[2226] The terminal displays a form for entering initial questions.
[2227] Step 3:
[2228] The user enters an initial question and clicks the submit button.
[2229] Step 4:
[2230] The terminal transmits the input initial question to the server.
[2231] Step 5:
[2232] The server stores the received initial question in a database.
[2233] Step 6:
[2234] The server generates an initial node from the initial question and returns it to the terminal.
[2235] Step 7:
[2236] The initial node received by the terminal is displayed as the initial node in the flowchart.
[2237] Enter new "why" questions and update the flowchart
[2238] Step 1:
[2239] The user clicks on the node they want to add (e.g., the initial question node).
[2240] Step 2:
[2241] The device will display a form for you to enter a new "why" question.
[2242] Step 3:
[2243] The user enters a new "why" question and clicks the submit button.
[2244] Step 4:
[2245] The device sends the entered "why" question to the server.
[2246] Step 5:
[2247] The server stores the received "why" questions in a database and generates related nodes.
[2248] Step 6:
[2249] The server returns the updated flowchart to the terminal.
[2250] Step 7:
[2251] The terminal displays the updated flowchart and adds a new "Why" node.
[2252] Data import and analysis
[2253] Step 1:
[2254] User clicks the data import button.
[2255] Step 2:
[2256] The terminal displays a file selection dialog.
[2257] Step 3:
[2258] The user selects the file to import and clicks the submit button.
[2259] Step 4:
[2260] The terminal transmits the selected data file to the server.
[2261] Step 5:
[2262] The server parses the received data file and extracts information relevant to the problem.
[2263] Step 6:
[2264] The server stores the extracted data in a database and updates the corresponding node in the flowchart.
[2265] Step 7:
[2266] The server returns the analysis results to the terminal.
[2267] Step 8:
[2268] The terminal displays the analysis results at the relevant node in the flowchart, allowing the user to check the details.
[2269] Use of collaboration features
[2270] Step 1:
[2271] The user clicks the Share button.
[2272] Step 2:
[2273] The device displays a screen for selecting members to share with.
[2274] Step 3:
[2275] The user enters the email address of the member with whom the user wants to share and clicks the send button.
[2276] Step 4:
[2277] The device sends a share request to the server.
[2278] Step 5:
[2279] The server processes the received request and sends notifications to the selected members.
[2280] Step 6:
[2281] The server grants shared access and provides shared data to members.
[2282] Step 7:
[2283] When the shared member logs in, the device displays the shared flowchart and related data.
[2284] Step 8:
[2285] Members can review the shared data and add their opinions.
[2286] Collaboration with emotion engine
[2287] Step 1:
[2288] When a user logs in or performs an operation, the terminal transmits the user's facial expressions, voice, input speed, etc. to the emotion engine.
[2289] Step 2:
[2290] The emotion engine analyzes emotions from the user's input and actions and sends the results to the server.
[2291] Step 3:
[2292] The server passes a command to the terminal to adjust the content displayed on the interface based on the received emotional data.
[2293] Step 4:
[2294] The device receives instructions from the server, changes the interface display, and displays appropriate feedback and support messages.
[2295] Step 5:
[2296] The emotion engine saves the user's emotion history and stores it in a database.
[2297] Step 6:
[2298] When a user repeatedly uses the system, the device refers to the user's emotional history and personalizes the display content and assistance based on past emotional data.
[2299] Example 2
[2300] 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."
[2301] Conventional data analysis tools have the drawback of being unable to efficiently identify the root cause of a problem and are unable to provide feedback or assistance that reflects the user's emotional state. To solve this issue, it is necessary not only to make the data analysis process visually easy to understand, but also to provide a personalized experience that takes the user's emotional state into account.
[2302] 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.
[2303] In this invention, the server includes a means for displaying the analysis process in a flowchart format, a means for recording information and inferences at each step, and a means for analyzing the user's emotional state to adjust the interface display content and display appropriate feedback and support messages, thereby improving the efficiency of data analysis and enabling the user to receive optimal support according to their emotional state.
[2304] "Analysis process" refers to a series of tasks including data acquisition, analysis, and display of results.
[2305] A "flowchart format" is a diagram format used to visually represent procedures and processes.
[2306] "Information" refers to data entered by users and analysis results generated by the system.
[2307] "Inference" refers to the process of drawing conclusions based on given data or information.
[2308] "User" refers to an individual or organization that uses this system.
[2309] An "initial question" refers to a basic question that a user enters at the beginning of the data analysis process.
[2310] An "initial node" refers to the first step in a flowchart that is generated based on an initial question.
[2311] A "new why question" refers to a question that a user adds to further explore the initial question.
[2312] "Project team member" refers to an individual or group working together on a particular project.
[2313] "Relevant information" refers to all data and materials related to the flowchart and data analysis.
[2314] An "emotion analysis engine" refers to software or algorithms used to analyze a user's emotional state.
[2315] "Interface display content" refers to the on-screen information and messages that the system displays to the user.
[2316] "Feedback" refers to information or messages that a system provides in response to a user's actions or input.
[2317] "Support messages" refer to messages that provide appropriate support when users use the system.
[2318] "Authentication Information" refers to information used to identify and authenticate a user, such as a user name and password.
[2319] "Authentication" refers to the process by which a system verifies a user's identity and grants access rights.
[2320] "Main screen" refers to the basic work screen that is first displayed after a user logs in.
[2321] "Data file" refers to a file containing electronic data that is imported for analysis.
[2322] "Analysis results" refers to conclusions or findings obtained through the analysis of data.
[2323] This invention relates to a "Why-Why Analysis Tool" that uses "Why-Why Analysis" to identify the root cause of a problem during data analysis, supporting efficient decision-making and teamwork. Furthermore, by combining it with an emotion engine that recognizes the user's emotions, it provides a more effective analysis process. This system displays the analysis process in a flowchart format, allowing users to record information and inferences at each step.
[2324] The basic structure of the system consists of a server, a device, a user, and an emotion engine, which work together. The server stores, authenticates, and analyzes data, while the device sends information entered by the user to the server and receives and displays the results. The user enters various data and performs operations to further the analysis. The emotion engine recognizes the user's emotions and influences the entire system to provide a more personalized experience.
[2325] Hardware and software used
[2326] Server: Stores, authenticates, and analyzes data using a database (e.g., MySQL). Executes APIs and performs data analysis using a programming language such as Python.
[2327] Terminal: Provides the user interface using a web browser or dedicated app. The front end is built using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.
[2328] Emotion Engine: Uses emotion recognition APIs (e.g., Microsoft Azure Emotion API) to analyze user emotions.
[2329] This system works in the following example: Consider a case where a user is trying to find the cause of declining sales. The user enters the initial question, "Why are sales declining?", and a flowchart is generated. Next, the user adds more in-depth questions, such as "Why is marketing effectiveness low?", and updates the flowchart. Furthermore, marketing data is imported, and the server displays the relevant analysis results in the flowchart. During this process, the emotion engine recognizes the user's emotions, and if the user is feeling stressed, it can adjust the display content and display appropriate support messages.
[2330] Example prompts for generative AI models
[2331] The following prompt is for a scenario in which a probing "why" question is added to a question such as "Why are sales declining?", allowing emotions to play a role.
[2332] prompt:
[2333] A user is investigating the cause of declining sales. They enter "Why are sales declining?" as the initial question. They then follow up with "Why is marketing effectiveness low?" The user imports marketing data, and the system analyzes the data and notifies the results. Please create a scenario in which the user begins to feel stressed during this process, which is communicated to the emotion engine and an appropriate support message is displayed from the server.
[2334] The flow of the identification process in the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.
[2335] Step 1:
[2336] The user enters their login information and accesses the system.
[2337] Input: Username and Password (e.g. "example_p" and "1234")
[2338] How it works: The device sends this information to the server, which checks it against the authentication information in its database.
[2339] Output: If authentication is successful, the server instructs the terminal to display the main screen, otherwise it returns an error message.
[2340] Step 2:
[2341] The user enters an initial question and clicks the "New Analysis" button.
[2342] Input: Initial question (e.g., "Why are sales declining?")
[2343] Operation: The device sends an initial question to the server, which stores it in a database and generates an initial node.
[2344] Output: The server returns the information of the initial node to the terminal and displays it in a flowchart format.
[2345] Step 3:
[2346] The user clicks on an existing node and enters a new "why" question.
[2347] Enter: New question (e.g., "Why is my marketing not working?")
[2348] How it works: The device sends a new question to the server, which stores it in the database and creates a new node.
[2349] Output: The server sends the updated flowchart back to the device for display.
[2350] Step 4:
[2351] The user selects a data file and imports it.
[2352] Input: Data file (e.g. marketing data file)
[2353] How it works: The device sends a data file to the server, which then analyzes the data, extracts relevant information, and stores it in a database.
[2354] Output: The server reflects the analysis results in a flowchart and sends it back to the terminal for display.
[2355] Step 5:
[2356] The user clicks the "Share" button and selects project members.
[2357] Input: Selection information of members to share
[2358] How it works: The device sends a sharing request to the server, and the server sends notifications to selected members.
[2359] Output: The flowchart and related data are displayed on the device of each collaborator, allowing them to give their opinions and make corrections.
[2360] Step 6:
[2361] The terminal transmits the user's emotional state to the emotion engine.
[2362] Input: User's emotional state (e.g., stress)
[2363] How it works: The emotion engine analyzes the user's emotional state and sends the results to the server.
[2364] Output: The server adjusts the interface display and displays appropriate feedback and assistance messages on the terminal.
[2365] (Application example 2)
[2366] 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 robot 414 will be referred to as a "terminal."
[2367] Conventional "5-Why Analysis" tools do not take the user's emotions into consideration and the analysis process proceeds mechanically, which can cause stress and frustration for the user. Furthermore, when solving problems on the factory floor, ignoring the emotional factors that arise on the shop floor prevents optimal decision-making and promotion of teamwork.
[2368] The specific processing by the specific processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in Application Example 2 is realized by the following means. In this invention, the server includes means for displaying the analysis process in flowchart form, means for recording data and inferences at each step, means for generating an initial node based on an initial question entered by the user, means for displaying the generated flowchart to the user, means for generating a new node based on a new "why" question entered and updating the flowchart, means for sharing the flowchart and related data with project members through a sharing function, and means for recognizing the user's emotions using an emotion engine and providing personalized feedback. This enables the user to effectively identify the root cause of a problem while promoting decision-making and teamwork that take emotional aspects into consideration.
[2369] An "analytical process" is a set of steps for systematically evaluating data to identify causes of problems and solutions.
[2370] A "flowchart format" is a diagram made up of shapes and arrows to visually represent a process or procedure.
[2371] "Inference" is the process of logically drawing conclusions based on given information and data.
[2372] An "initial question" is the first question posed to find the initial cause of a problem.
[2373] An "initial node" is the first point in a flowchart where the analysis process begins.
[2374] A "new why question" is a new question added to dig deeper into a particular problem.
[2375] The "sharing function" is a means for sharing information and data among project members and stakeholders.
[2376] An "emotion engine" is a technology that recognizes a user's emotions and adjusts the system's behavior and feedback based on those emotions.
[2377] "Personalized feedback" refers to customized responses or advice tailored to a user's individual emotional state and needs.
[2378] The "import button" is an operation button that the user uses to import external data into the system.
[2379] "Analysis results" refer to the conclusions and findings obtained during the data analysis process.
[2380] "Support messages" are messages of advice or support provided to users in the process of resolving a problem.
[2381] This invention relates to a factory efficiency support assistant system, which performs "5-why analysis" to identify the root cause of a problem while taking into account the user's emotions. The following explains how to specifically implement this system.
[2382] Hardware and Software Configuration
[2383] Hardware
[2384] Terminal: Robot terminal used in the factory (industrial PC, etc.)
[2385] Server: A powerful computer for storing, authenticating, and analyzing data
[2386] Emotion engine: a dedicated device or software module for analyzing user emotions
[2387] software
[2388] Flask: a web application framework
[2389] SQLite: A lightweight relational database management system
[2390] EmotionEngine: Software for recognizing and analyzing user emotions
[2391] Data processing and calculation
[2392] 1. Login and authentication process:
[2393] The user sends login information from the terminal to the server, and the server authenticates by checking it against an SQLite database.
[2394] If authentication is successful, the user is directed to the main screen of the analysis tool.
[2395] At the same time, the emotion engine analyzes the user's emotional state and adjusts the interface accordingly.
[2396] 2. "5-Why Analysis":
[2397] The user enters an initial question into the terminal, which then sends it to the server.
[2398] The server stores the question in a database, generates an initial node, and sends it back to the terminal, which displays the node in a flowchart format.
[2399] Each time the user enters a new "why" question, the server generates a new node and sends an updated flowchart back to the device.
[2400] 3. Data import and analysis:
[2401] The user clicks the import button, selects a data file, and sends it from the device to the server.
[2402] The server analyzes the received data and reflects the information related to the particular node in the flow chart.
[2403] Updated analysis results are displayed on the device so users can view the details.
[2404] 4. Emotional Engine Feedback:
[2405] The server detects the user's stress and frustration based on data from the emotion engine.
[2406] Appropriate support messages are generated and displayed on the device, allowing users to proceed with their analysis in a relaxed manner.
[2407] Examples of concrete examples and prompts
[2408] As a concrete example, consider a case where a user is trying to find the cause of a machine breakdown in a factory. After entering their login information and being authenticated, the user enters the initial question "Why did the machine break down?" on the main screen. A flowchart is generated based on this, and then new questions such as "Why didn't this part work?" are added to dig deeper. During this process, the server updates specific nodes based on the data imported by the user, and the emotion engine analyzes the user's emotional state and provides appropriate feedback.
[2409] Prompt Sentence Examples
[2410] "Please enter your username and password."
[2411] "Why did the machine stop?"
[2412] "Why didn't this part work?"
[2413] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 2 will be described with reference to FIG.
[2414] Step 1:
[2415] The terminal displays a login screen, and the user enters their username and password. The authentication information entered by the user is sent from the terminal to the server. The server compares the received authentication information with a database (SQLite) and authenticates the user. If authentication is successful, the server instructs the terminal to display the main screen. If authentication fails, an error message is displayed.
[2416] Input: Username, Password
[2417] Output: Main screen display (if authentication is successful), error message (if authentication fails)
[2418] Step 2:
[2419] The user clicks the "New Analysis" button on the main screen and enters an initial question. The terminal sends this initial question to the server. The server stores the received initial question in a database and generates an initial node. The generated initial node is displayed on the terminal in a flowchart format.
[2420] Input: Initial question
[2421] Output: Generate initial question nodes and display flowchart
[2422] Step 3:
[2423] The user clicks on a particular node and enters a new "why" question. The device sends this new question to the server. The server saves the new question in the database, creates a new node, and updates the flowchart. The updated flowchart is sent to the device and displayed to the user.
[2424] Enter: a new "why" question
[2425] Output: New nodes are created, the flowchart is updated and displayed
[2426] Step 4:
[2427] The user clicks the Import button to select a data file to use for analysis. The terminal sends the selected data file to the server. The server receives the data and performs analysis. The analyzed data is associated with the specific node in question and updates the flowchart. The updated analysis results are sent to the terminal and displayed to the user.
[2428] Input: Data file
[2429] Output: Data analysis results, updated flowchart display
[2430] Step 5:
[2431] The user clicks the "Share" button and selects project members. The device sends a sharing request to the server. The server notifies the selected members and shares the flowchart and related data. When the sharing members log in, the device displays the shared flowchart and related data, allowing them to add or modify their opinions.
[2432] Input: Project member selection
[2433] Output: Share flowcharts and related data, view shared content
[2434] Step 6:
[2435] When a user logs in or performs an operation, the device sends the user's input and actions to the emotion engine. The emotion engine analyzes the user's emotions and sends the results to the server. Based on the emotion data, the server adjusts the interface display content and instructs the device to display appropriate feedback and support messages. The emotion engine saves the user's emotion history and stores it in a database.
[2436] Input: User input and behavior data
[2437] Output: Sentiment analysis results, interface display adjustments, support messages
[2438] Through this process, users can receive emotional support while efficiently identifying the root cause of the problem.
[2439] The specific processing unit 290 transmits the result of the specific processing to the robot 414. In the robot 414, the control unit 46A causes the speaker 240 and the control target 443 to output the result of the specific processing. The microphone 238 acquires voice indicating a user input regarding the result of the specific processing. The control unit 46A transmits voice 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 voice data.
[2440] 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.
[2441] 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 robot 414.
[2442] The emotion identification model 59 as an emotion engine may determine the user's emotion according to a specific mapping. Specifically, the emotion identification model 59 may determine the user's emotion according to an emotion map (see FIG. 9), which is a specific mapping. Similarly, the emotion identification model 59 may determine the robot's emotion, and the identification processing unit 290 may perform identification processing using the robot's emotion.
[2443] FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an emotion map 400 on which multiple emotions are mapped. In the emotion map 400, emotions are arranged in concentric circles radiating from the center. Emotions closer to the center of the concentric circles are more primitive. Emotions representing states and actions arising from a state of mind are arranged on the outer edges of the concentric circles. The concept of emotion includes both affect and mental states. Emotions generally generated from reactions occurring in the brain are arranged on the left side of the concentric circles. Emotions generally induced by situational judgment are arranged on the right side of the concentric circles. Emotions generally generated from reactions occurring in the brain and induced by situational judgment are arranged on the upper and lower sides of the concentric circles. Furthermore, the emotion of "pleasure" is arranged on the upper side of the concentric circles, and the emotion of "discomfort" is arranged on the lower side. In this way, in the emotion map 400, multiple emotions are mapped based on the structure by which emotions are generated, and emotions that tend to occur simultaneously are mapped close to each other.
[2444] These emotions are distributed in the 3 o'clock direction on emotion map 400, and typically fluctuate between relief and anxiety. In the right half of emotion map 400, situational awareness dominates over internal sensations, resulting in a sense of calm.
[2445] The inside of emotion map 400 represents what is going on in the mind, and the outside of emotion map 400 represents behavior, so the further you go outside emotion map 400, the more visible the emotions become (the more they are expressed in behavior).
[2446] Human emotions are based on various balances, such as posture and blood sugar levels. When these balances deviate from the ideal, a state of discomfort is indicated, and when they approach the ideal, a state of pleasure is indicated. Emotions can also be created for robots, automobiles, and motorcycles, based on various balances, such as posture and remaining battery life. When these balances deviate from the ideal, a state of discomfort is indicated, and when they approach the ideal, a state of pleasure is indicated. An emotion map can be generated, for example, based on Dr. Mitsuyoshi's emotion map (Research on Voice Emotion Recognition and Emotional Brain Physiological Signal Analysis Systems, Tokushima University, Doctoral Dissertation: https: / / ci.nii.ac.jp / naid / 500000375379). The left half of the emotion map lists emotions belonging to the "reaction" domain, where sensation is dominant. The right half of the emotion map lists emotions belonging to the "situation" domain, where situational awareness is dominant.
[2447] The emotion map defines two emotions that promote learning. One is a negative emotion on the situation side, around the middle of "repentance" or "reflection." In other words, this occurs when the robot experiences negative emotions such as "I never want to feel this way again" or "I don't want to be scolded again." The other is a positive emotion on the response side, around "desire." In other words, this occurs when the robot experiences positive feelings such as "I want more" or "I want to know more."
[2448] The emotion identification model 59 inputs user input into a pre-trained neural network, obtains emotion values indicating each emotion shown in the emotion map 400, and determines the user's emotion. This neural network is pre-trained based on multiple pieces of training data that are combinations of user input and emotion values indicating each emotion shown in the emotion map 400. Furthermore, this neural network is trained so that emotions that are located close to each other have similar values, as in the emotion map 900 shown in FIG. 10. FIG. 10 shows an example in which multiple emotions, "relieved," "calm," and "reassuring," have similar emotion values.
[2449] The system according to the present disclosure has been described above mainly with respect to the functions of the data processing device 12, but the system according to the present disclosure is not necessarily implemented on a server. The system according to the present disclosure may be implemented as a general information processing system. The present disclosure may be implemented, for example, as a software program running on a personal computer or an application running on a smartphone, etc. The method according to the present disclosure may be provided to users in the form of SaaS (Software as a Service).
[2450] In the above embodiment, an example was given in which the specific processing is performed by one computer 22, but the technology of the present disclosure is not limited to this, and the specific processing may be distributed and performed by a plurality of computers including the computer 22. For example, the data generation model 58 may be provided in an external device of the data processing device 12, and data may be generated in the external device in accordance with input data.
[2451] In the above embodiment, an example in which the specific processing program 56 is stored in the storage 32 has been described, but the technology of the present disclosure is not limited to this. For example, the specific processing program 56 may be stored in a portable, computer-readable, non-transitory storage medium such as a USB (Universal Serial Bus) memory. The specific processing program 56 stored in the non-transitory storage medium is installed in the computer 22 of the data processing device 12. The processor 28 executes the specific processing in accordance with the specific processing program 56.
[2452] Alternatively, the specific processing program 56 may be stored in a storage device such as a server connected to the data processing device 12 via the network 54, and the specific processing program 56 may be downloaded and installed on the computer 22 in response to a request from the data processing device 12.
[2453] It is not necessary to store all of the specific processing program 56 in a storage device such as a server connected to the data processing device 12 via the network 54, or to store all of the specific processing program 56 in the storage 32; only a portion of the specific processing program 56 may be stored.
[2454] The hardware resource for executing a specific process can be any of the following processors: An example of a processor is a CPU, which is a general-purpose processor that functions as a hardware resource for executing a specific process by executing software, i.e., a program. Another example of a processor is a dedicated electrical circuit, such as an FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array), a PLD (Programmable Logic Device), or an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), which is a processor with a circuit configuration designed specifically for executing a specific process. Each processor has built-in or connected memory, and each processor uses the memory to execute the specific process.
[2455] The hardware resource that executes the specific processing may be configured with one of these various processors, or may be configured with a combination of two or more processors of the same or different types (for example, a combination of multiple FPGAs, or a combination of a CPU and an FPGA). Also, the hardware resource that executes the specific processing may be a single processor.
[2456] As an example of a system configured with a single processor, first, one processor is configured by combining one or more CPUs and software, and this processor functions as a hardware resource that executes a specific process. Second, there is a system that uses a processor that realizes the functions of an entire system including multiple hardware resources that execute a specific process on a single IC chip, as typified by SoC (System-on-a-chip). In this way, a specific process is realized using one or more of the above-mentioned various processors as hardware resources.
[2457] Furthermore, the hardware structure of these various processors can be, more specifically, an electric circuit that combines circuit elements such as semiconductor devices. The specific processing described above is merely an example. Therefore, it goes without saying that unnecessary steps may be deleted, new steps may be added, or the processing order may be rearranged, without departing from the spirit of the invention.
[2458] The above-described description and illustrations are a detailed explanation of the parts related to the technology of the present disclosure and are merely an example of the technology of the present disclosure. For example, the above description of the configuration, functions, actions, and effects is an explanation of an example of the configuration, functions, actions, and effects of the parts related to the technology of the present disclosure. Therefore, it goes without saying that unnecessary parts may be deleted, new elements may be added, or replacements may be made to the above-described description and illustrations within the scope of the gist of the technology of the present disclosure. Furthermore, to avoid confusion and facilitate understanding of the parts related to the technology of the present disclosure, the above-described description and illustrations omit explanations of common technical knowledge that do not require particular explanation to enable the implementation of the technology of the present disclosure.
[2459] All publications, patent applications, and technical standards mentioned in this specification are herein incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individual publication, patent application, or technical standard was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference.
[2460] The following is further disclosed regarding the above embodiment.
[2461] (Claim 1)
[2462] a means for displaying the analytical process in a flowchart format;
[2463] A means of recording data and inferences at each step,
[2464] A means for generating an initial node based on an initial question entered by a user;
[2465] a means for displaying the generated flowchart to a user;
[2466] A means to generate new nodes and update the flowchart based on new "why" questions entered;
[2467] A means to share flowcharts and related data with project members through the sharing function,
[2468] A system including:
[2469] (Claim 2)
[2470] The user enters login information, and the server has a means of authentication.
[2471] means for displaying the main screen of the analysis tool upon successful authent...
Claims
1. a means for displaying the analytical process in a flowchart format; A means of recording data and inferences at each step, A means for generating an initial node based on an initial question entered by a user; a means for displaying the generated flowchart to a user; A means to generate new nodes and update the flowchart based on new "why" questions entered; A means to share flowcharts and related data with project members through the sharing function, A system including:
2. The user enters login information, and the server has a means of authentication. means for displaying the main screen of the analysis tool upon successful authentication; The system of claim 1 .
3. A means for the user to click the import button and send the data to the server; a means for the server to analyze the data and update the corresponding node in the flowchart; including a means for displaying updated analysis results to the user; The system of claim 1 .
Citation Information
Patent Citations
Persona chatbot control method and system
JP2022180282A